Wild Game, Wine, and Words: Cecil Cherry’s Unique Take on Outdoor Storytelling

Welcome to Howard Fox's Outdoor Adventure Series podcast! In today’s episode, Howard sits down with Cecil Cherry, an outdoor writer, avid hunter, fisherman, and photographer with deep roots in Eastern North Carolina. A retired special agent, Cecil shares how growing up on a farm fueled his passion for the outdoors and inspired his journey into writing about hunting, regional history, and wild game recipes.  Cecil discusses the path from law enforcement to publishing stories in magazines like Feathers & Whiskey, the importance of community through the Outdoor Writers Association of America (OWAA), and the joy found not just in the hunt, but in savoring great meals and memories with family and friends.  Whether you love the thrill of the outdoors or the satisfaction of sharing a meal around the campfire, this episode is sure to inspire your next adventure! DISCSSION Introduction to the Podcast and Guest Howard Fox introduces the Outdoor Adventure Series Introduction of Cecil Cherry as the guest Brief overview of Cecil Cherry's background and interests Mention of the Outdoor Writers Association of America (OWAA) Recent Events and Health Update Cecil Cherry's attendance at the OWAA annual conference in Madison, Wisconsin Explanation of shoulder surgery and current recovery (01:43) Anticipation of participating in an upcoming duck hunt Cecil Cherry's Personal and Professional Background Growing up on a farm in Eastern North Carolina (02:55) Education in Criminal Justice at East Carolina University Career in law enforcement with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation Transition to investigating health insurance fraud post-retirement Evolution into Writing Early interest and practice in report writing for investigations Learning formal, procedural writing styles Desire to transition investigative writing experience to outdoor writing Introduction to Outdoor Interests Early experiences with hunting and progression through various game and firearms (06:27) Interest in wild game recipes and outdoor photography Writing and Photography Approach Preference for using personal photographs in articles (07:19) Encouragement from Howard Fox to submit photographs to competitions First Outdoor Article and Publishing Experience Discovery and social media engagement with Feathers and Whiskey magazine (08:24) Development of relationship with the magazine editor, Michael Maynard Writing and publishing of first article about antelope hunting in Wyoming (09:24) Ongoing collaboration and co-writing with Michael Maynard on historical topics Experience of Seeing Work Published Description of the emotional response to seeing the first published article (12:20) Continued sense of humility and surrealism Discovering and Joining OWAA Connection with another writer, Edgar Castillo, via social media and mutual interests (13:08) Encouragement to join OWAA and explanation of its benefits (networking, education, inspiration) Influence of OWAA on Writing Growth Impact of community, classes, and networking on writing evolution (15:54) Learning about pitching to editors, handling submissions, and building professional relationships The value of resilience and building connections in the industry Development of a Writing Niche Attempt to follow in others’ footsteps in focusing on a topic (e.g., upland bird hunting) (19:26) Identifying untapped niche in wild game recipes and food-based outdoor writing Publishing recipes in outlets like Wild Nexus and collaborating with enthusiastic editors Post-Hunt Experiences and Culinary Adventures Description of meals and wine pairings post-hunt, especially with wife Pamela (22:24) Creation of memories and storytelling around meals and shared beverages Article Highlights and Food Stories Overview of article topics, such as group dove hunts and local diners (26:37) Detailed discussion of favorite recipes (e.g., antelope Wellington, bear roast, local game) The importance of Pamela’s support in editing and recipe development Reflections and “Aha” Moments Key turning point: first contact and support from Michael Maynard (32:17) The role of networking and support in Cecil's progress Advice for Aspiring Writers Recommendations for joining groups like OWAA, networking, and seeking mentorship (34:27) Emphasis on resilience, learning how the industry works, and openness to feedback The value of conferences and community Closing Thoughts and Gratitude Appreciation for the opportunities and friendships made through outdoor writing Information for listeners on how to connect with Cecil and access further content NEXT STEPS To learn more about the Cecil and his work, visit his Linktree at https://linktr.ee/ccherry475. RESOURCES Feathers & Whiskey: https://feathersandwhiskey.com/ Outdoor Writers Association of America (OWAA): https://owaa.org/ KEYWORDS Cecil Cherry, Outdoor Writing, Field to Table, Wild Game Food and Wine Pairings, Feathers and Whiskey magazine, OWAA, Howard Fox, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview #CecilCherry #OutdoorWriting #FieldtoTable #WildGameFoodandWinePairings #FeathersandWhiskeymagazine #OWAA #HowardFox #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview My Favorite Podcast Tools:   Production by Descript Hosting Buzzsprout Show Notes by Castmagic Website powered by Podpage Be a Podcast Guest by PodMatch Banner Customization by Nano Banana & Canva