

The Ozark Podcast
Kyle Veit & Kyle Plunkett
In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker.Our guests and the information they share are especially relevant to men and women in northern Arkansas, southern Missouri, eastern Oklahoma, and southeast Kansas.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 15, 2025 • 43min
Ep. 194 - McRee Anderson - The History of Fire Suppression on the Ozark Landscape (And Its Negative Consequences)
→ Join our community on Patreon - "The Holler"
For thousands of years, fire shaped the Ozarks: clearing land, nourishing native plants, and creating the vibrant ecosystems once teeming with quail, wildflowers, and red-headed woodpeckers. But sometime around 1920, everything changed. ..
In this episode, we sit down with McRee Anderson with The Nature Conservancy, to talk about the history of fire in the Ozarks, what the landscape looked like before fire suppression, and how controlled burns are helping to restore the balance.
Our Trusted partners for this episode:
Vortex Optics - Industry leader in scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars
Maverik - Adventure's first stop in the Ozarks
Big Pete's Taxidermy - High-quality work with quick turnaround
Pack Rat Outdoor Center - Everything you need to start your next adventure
00:00 History of fire on the landscape
15:30 What happened in 1920?
30:00 Benefits of adding fire to the landscape
What is The Ozark Podcast?
In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker.
Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett - and our producer is Daniel Matthews
Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton
Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast
PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: theozarkpodcast@gmail.com

Oct 8, 2025 • 1h 21min
Ep. 193 - The Check Station - This Chronic Wasting Disease Study Could Change Deer Hunting FOREVER
→ Join "The Holler"
We're back with a Check Station episode this week covering a gaggle of things such as: the most recent bear attack, more threats to public land, reel reactions of our most viral social clips, AND the CWD study done in Northwest Arkansas that could legit change deer hunting as we know it.
Our Trusted partners for this episode:
Vortex Optics - Industry leader in scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars
Maverik - Adventure's first stop in the Ozarks
Big Pete's Taxidermy - High-quality work with quick turnaround
Pack Rat Outdoor Center - Everything you need to start your next adventure
00:00 Another Bear Attack
2:30 Hither & Yonder
34:00 Reel Reactions
51:00 Shootin' from the Hip
What is The Ozark Podcast?
In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker.
Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett - and our producer is Daniel Matthews
Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton
Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast
PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: theozarkpodcast@gmail.com

Oct 3, 2025 • 19min
Ep. 192 - The Old Ozarks - A Bob Wahr Brand
Welcome to the Old Ozarks with Dr. Brooks Blevins...
We dig into the Ozark’s "surprising" legacy of building some of the world's most recognizable brands. From Walmart to Bass Pro, the region has no shortage of world-changing founders and concepts. But what about the entrepreneurs who were born in the area...but decided to build their kingdoms elsewhere?
Let's dive into this episode of The Old Ozarks...
What is The Old Ozarks?
The Old Ozarks is your gateway to the forgotten history of the Ozarks. Hosted by renowned historian Dr. Brooks Blevins, the leading authority on the region’s history, this podcast explores the lives, legends, and landscapes that have shaped this unique region.
Whether you’re a native Ozarker, a new resident, or a curious listener, join us as we share the stories that make the Ozarks special and connect us to our past.

Oct 1, 2025 • 41min
Ep. 191 - Augy Knickmeyer of Missouri Smallmouth Alliance - The Must-fish Smallmouth Streams in the Missouri Ozarks + How to Catch 'Em in the Fall Season
→ Join "The Holler"
We're back with Augy Knickmeyer of Missouri Smallmouth Alliance to discuss seasonal smallmouth behavior to fly fishing finesse to the best tactics on smallmouth creeks.
Our Trusted partners for this episode:
Vortex Optics - Industry leader in scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars
Big Pete's Taxidermy - High-quality work with quick turnaround
Pack Rat Outdoor Center - Everything you need to start your next adventure
00:00 - Must-fish Smallmouth Streams12:00 - Seasonal Breakdown17:00 - Augy's technique26:00 - Finding "juicy structure"
What is The Ozark Podcast?
In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker.
Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett - and our producer is Daniel Matthews
Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton
Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast
PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: theozarkpodcast@gmail.com

Sep 24, 2025 • 53min
Ep. 190 - Dan Kreher & Augy Knickmeyer of Missouri Smallmouth Alliance - Missouri's Ongoing Battle for Smallmouth Protection
→ Join "The Holler"
We're floating down the scenic Meramec River with two passionate voices in smallmouth bass conservation: Dan Kreher and Augy Knickmeyer of the Missouri Smallmouth Alliance. From the history of Missouri’s smallmouth regulations to the very real threat of habitat loss, we dive deep into the cultural, ecological, and political challenges that shape Ozark stream fishing today.
Our Trusted partners for this episode:
Vortex Optics - Industry leader in scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars
Big Pete's Taxidermy - High-quality work with quick turnaround
Pack Rat Outdoor Center - Everything you need to start your next adventure
00:00 The threat to smallmouth04:30 The founding of the Missouri Smallmouth Alliance33:00 Does harvesting really impact fish populations?38:30 Is statewide catch & release unrealistic?
What is The Ozark Podcast?
In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker.
Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett - and our producer is Daniel Matthews
Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton
Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast
PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: theozarkpodcast@gmail.com

Sep 19, 2025 • 20min
Ep. 189 - The Old Ozarks - Sow Coons a-Blowin' Across this Land
Welcome to the Old Ozarks with Dr. Brooks Blevins...
We dig into the region’s long and violent relationship with tornadoes, known around here by a wide variety of names: cyclone, twister, hurricane, and yes, even Sow Coon. And let me tell you, once you’ve stared down a mad-as-a-hornet mother raccoon, you’ll understand the metaphor better than you want to.
Let's dive into this episode of The Old Ozarks...
What is The Old Ozarks?
The Old Ozarks is your gateway to the forgotten history of the Ozarks. Hosted by renowned historian Dr. Brooks Blevins, the leading authority on the region’s history, this podcast explores the lives, legends, and landscapes that have shaped this unique region.
Whether you’re a native Ozarker, a new resident, or a curious listener, join us as we share the stories that make the Ozarks special and connect us to our past.

Sep 17, 2025 • 53min
Ep. 188 - Spencer Daniels of AGFC - Debunking Black Bear Myths + What To Do If Acorns Drop Early (Again) This Season
→ Join "The Holler"
The Ozarks are home to one of the most remarkable conservation comeback stories in the U.S.: the return of the black bear. In this episode, Kyle Plunkett sits down with Spencer Daniels, Bear Program Coordinator for the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission, to talk all things bear biology, hunting regulations, and the most commonly held myths / questions surrounding bears.
Our Trusted partners for this episode:
Vortex Optics - Industry leader in scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars
Big Pete's Taxidermy - High-quality work with quick turnaround
Pack Rat Outdoor Center - Everything you need to start your next adventure
00:00 Bear Attack
17:00 Rebuilding the Bear Population
32:00 Hunting, Conservation, and Cultural Caring Capacity
47:00 Black Bear Myths
What is The Ozark Podcast?
In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker.
Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett - and our producer is Daniel Matthews
Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton
Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast
PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: theozarkpodcast@gmail.com

Sep 10, 2025 • 52min
Ep. 187 - Chef Matt Cooper - The Real Reason You Won't Find Wild Venison or Fresh-caught Fish on Ozark Menus
→ Join "The Holler"
In this episode, Matt dives deep into what it means to cook with purpose, the tangled laws behind serving wild game and fish in restaurants, and how chefs are becoming modern-day cultural leaders.
Whether you're a hunter, a foodie, or someone who just wants to reconnect with your food and your land, this episode will challenge what you think you know about eating local.
Our Trusted partners for this episode:
Vortex Optics - Industry leader in scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars
Big Pete's Taxidermy - High-quality work with quick turnaround
Pack Rat Outdoor Center - Everything you need to start your next adventure
00:00 Introduction01:26 The evolving role of the chef18:00 The absurdity of food laws26:00 Getting around the rules36:12 Cooking over fire
What is The Ozark Podcast?
In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker.
Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett - and our producer is Daniel Matthews
Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton
Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast
PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: theozarkpodcast@gmail.com

Sep 5, 2025 • 20min
Ep. 186 - The Old Ozarks - Off We Go into the Clabbered-up Yonder
Welcome to the Old Ozarks with Dr. Brooks Blevins...
Sometimes, a single word can "open up the sky" to an entirely new world. In this episode, we begin with the humble but colorful Ozark term “clabbered” before diving into three Ozarks born pilots who changed the world of aviation.
Have you ever seen the movie "Up" ? Yes? No? Let's dive into this episode of The Old Ozarks...
What is The Old Ozarks?
The Old Ozarks is your gateway to the forgotten history of the Ozarks. Hosted by renowned historian Dr. Brooks Blevins, the leading authority on the region’s history, this podcast explores the lives, legends, and landscapes that have shaped this unique region.
Whether you’re a native Ozarker, a new resident, or a curious listener, join us as we share the stories that make the Ozarks special and connect us to our past.

Sep 3, 2025 • 46min
Ep. 185 - Chef Matt Cooper - How this James Beard Nominee Gets Inspiration from His Ozark Roots
→ Join "The Holler"
What if a restaurant wasn’t just about food, but about roots and connection? In this episode, we sit down with Chef Matt Cooper, founder of Conifer and RŶN, two of the most celebrated restaurants in Northwest Arkansas and the Ozarks. Matt opens up about his deep Arkansas roots, how he turned personal health challenges into culinary vision, and why human connection should be the soul of every kitchen.
Our Trusted partners for this episode:
Vortex Optics - Industry leader in scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars
Big Pete's Taxidermy - High-quality work with quick turnaround
Pack Rat Outdoor Center - Everything you need to start your next adventure
00:00 Matt's roots
16:00 Human connection as the goal, not just food
29:30 – Celiac disease
36:00 – From Garden to Table
What is The Ozark Podcast?
In the Ozarks, people have always lived in rhythm with the natural world. Hunting, fishing, and living off the land, aren't just things we do, it's who we are. And though our lives are inextricably linked to the land we live on, we've never been more disconnected from it. So join us, as we travel across the region to bring you the voices of the Ozarks to deepen your connection with the land, sharpen your skills in the outdoors, and help you learn what it means to be an Ozarker.
Our hosts are Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett - and our producer is Daniel Matthews
Theme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD Clayton
Catch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcast
PLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: theozarkpodcast@gmail.com