This one is for the older readers and those not so into tech. I recently found digital radio (a.k.a. Podcasts) and really can’t get enough. For those that are unfamiliar with what a Podcast is, I’d consider it basically a radio program that is geared for a very specific audience. For instance, if you’re into golf, a quick Google search gives me a list of the 30-best Golf Podcasts. Who knew there was so much golf to talk about? Or even more obscure, maybe you’re into Cross Stitching. Did you know there are six different Podcasts on that topic (probably more, I looked quickly)? More on topic, I’ve been listening to the MeatEater podcast which I would describe as a hunting/fishing podcast with a conservation-minded theme. I guarantee if you consider yourself an outdoors person or a sportsman you’ll learn a ton and speak more intelligently about all-things-outdoors by tuning in. I should also mention you’ll likely be able to find your favorite radio show in Podcast format, so you can tune in whenever it’s convenient, not just when it’s being broadcast on traditional old school radio.
My favorite thing about Podcasts is that you can listen to them at your leisure. And one of my favorite applications is downloading them to my smartphone and listening while we’re on road trips, similar to books on tape. The other time I’ll listen is when I’m doing some mundane work around the house, say mowing the yard for instance. I have a couple different sets of hearing protection (muffs and ear plugs) that have Bluetooth built-in, so no cords to get in the way. If you’re spending 45-min on the elliptical that’s another great time to listen; and obviously if you’re sitting at a computer all day, just find the episode you’re looking for and turn on your speakers.
Ok, so like I said in the beginning I’m somewhat new to the whole Podcast thing, so I’d love for readers to comment and tell me what I’m missing. I will do my best to walk you through the basic steps of tuning in, but I’m admittingly no expert. Again, the easiest way to listen is while sitting at a computer, just Google it up and start listening – or just click here MeatEater Podcast. If you want to listen from your Smartphone, you’ll either listen on iTunes (Apple users) or Stitcher or Podcast Addict (Android). I’m sure there are more but these seem to be the most popular. So, download the app for your particular device, and from there (and typically upon loading) search out the Podcast topic you’re interested in. I should mention that within the settings you’ll be able to control if, and when, an episode can be downloaded (wifi vs. data network connection). You can also choose the number of episodes to keep on the device, so you don’t take hog all the memory. I love listening so much I even went out a purchased a new stereo for my truck, so I could listen to Bluetooth while driving around. It’s technology that is definitely worth checking out.
Here are a couple of my favorites:
MeatEater – All things outdoors
While most episodes center around an outdoor topic, a couple of my favorites are not as outdoor‑centric, but still a great listen.
Tune in as Edward Garcia speaks about his life changing event in the outdoors, yikes!
(Below is the link to Mr. Garcia’s video documenting the event, not the Meateater Podcast)
Episode 63 – Navy Seal Rorke Denver
Discusses the psychology of pansieness amongst other things. If you’re like me, you’ll feel like a loser at the end of this one!
Episode 86 – The Meat Tree, Part 1
The MeatEater crew talks about their run-in with a Brown bear on Afognak Island.
A Few Others:
The Dave Ramsey Show – Up your financial acumen, so you can afford to go on more hunts!
Wired to Hunt – For the Whitetail enthusiast.
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