Topics include encounters with angry javelinas, professional cat neutering, living next to 43,000 monkeys, Bigfoot and trichinosis, running ultra marathons, elk hunting strategies, and the fear of death. Humorous anecdotes, gun clip mishaps, and the importance of an optimistic mindset in hunting.
Hunting pigs requires understanding the circle of life and embracing responsibility.
Ethical dilemmas in pig hunting: balancing pest control with empathy and respect for life.
Ultra marathon running demands physical endurance, mental strength, and a resilient mindset.
Deep dives
Pig Hunting and Changing Perspectives
Cam discusses his experience and perspective on pig hunting. He shares that he has hunted pigs in California with different methods, including spot and stock and hunting with dogs. As he has matured as a hunter, his mindset and approach to hunting have evolved, and he now has a deeper respect for life and a greater appreciation for the strategy and challenge of bowhunting. Cam highlights the importance of understanding the circle of life and the responsibilities hunters have in taking life. He reflects on how his perspective has shifted as he has grown older and gained more experience in the field.
The Ethics of Pig Hunting
The discussion delves into the ethical considerations surrounding pig hunting. Despite the destructive nature of pigs and the need for population control, Cam acknowledges the complexity of the issue and his struggle to fully embrace the pig eradication mindset. He highlights the challenges of reconciling the desire to hunt and control pests with a growing empathy for animals and a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of ecosystems. Cam expresses his evolving view on taking life, questioning the ethics of certain hunting practices, and emphasizing the importance of respect and thoughtfulness in every hunting endeavor.
Maturity and Changing Perspectives on Killing
Cam reflects on his evolving perspective on killing animals and the influence of maturity and expanded life experience. He shares how he no longer views hunting as simply killing, but rather a more thoughtful and complex process that involves respect for life. Cam explains how he used to be more indifferent towards killing animals, but as he has grown older and become more attuned to the circle of life, his empathy and sense of responsibility have deepened. He emphasizes the importance of experiencing the full scope of being a hunter and the personal growth and increased understanding that comes with it.
Importance of Physical Endurance in Ultra Marathon Running
Ultra marathon running, particularly in the mountains, requires tremendous physical endurance. The speaker describes the challenge of running 135 miles in Death Valley during the Badwater 135 race. The extreme heat, melting shoes, and difficult terrain make it a grueling experience. Additionally, the speaker highlights the significance of training and conditioning the body to withstand long periods of exertion and recovery. Ultra marathons push athletes to their limits and require mental strength and resilience to overcome physical challenges.
Adopting an Optimistic Mindset in Hunting and Life
The speaker discusses the importance of maintaining an optimistic mindset in hunting and life in general. Drawing from personal experiences, the speaker emphasizes the need to believe in one's abilities and stay positive even in challenging situations. Hunting serves as a metaphor for life, teaching individuals to focus on the possibilities and remain resilient in the face of adversity. Optimism allows hunters to make informed decisions, adapt to changing circumstances, and seize opportunities when they arise. By maintaining a positive outlook, individuals can overcome obstacles and achieve success in their pursuits.
Topics discussed: Getting bested by an armadillo; calling in a pissed off javelina; soft, malleable mettle; how Seth’s antler rattling sequence on the podcast possibly called in a deer; RIP “Floppy”; how you really need professional help to neuter a cat; would you want 43,000 monkeys living next door?; stuff gets out in Texas; is Bigfoot a vector for trichinosis?; getting your ammo thrown in the trash vs. getting arrested; being mostly good at many things or being great at one thing; maintaining awareness of all the arguments against wild pigs, while sticking with your treatment of them as a game animal; how having blood on your hands doesn’t mean you don’t care; the theory that we’re governed by a fear of death; no baby named “Steve”; old folks are mentally tougher than young folks; Cam on ultra marathons and how our bodies are incredible; how the weekly mileage you put in helps you run a single race of that length; being 100% focused on getting that elk; running a marathon per day; how elk are very susceptible to stalking; always looking at the numbers; how hunting teaches that an optimistic mindset is almost better than anything else; lights out; and more.
