The Ozark Podcast

If you were dropped into the Ozark wilderness with nothing but your hands—could you survive? In this episode of The Ozark Podcast, survival expert and author Bo Brown returns for a hands-on breakdown of primitive skills that have sustained humans for thousands of years. From starting a fire with nothing but sticks to crafting stone blades and forging clothing from deer hides, Bo shares the forgotten knowledge that kept early Ozarkers alive—and why it still matters today. Watch this episode on YouTube Support for this episode: ⁠⁠⁠Vortex Optics⁠⁠⁠ - Industry-defining scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars ⁠⁠⁠Moultrie Mobile⁠⁠⁠ - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integration ⁠⁠⁠Umarex Airguns⁠⁠⁠ - The leader in Air Rifle technology 00:00 – Introduction 06:30 – The 5 essentials for wilderness survival 13:20 – Stuffing your clothes with leaves to fight hypothermia 22:00 – Starting fire with a bow drill vs. hand drill 36:30 – The atlatl: more powerful than a .357 Magnum 50:00 – Living off the land: a culture that honored what it took 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

In this debut episode of The Old Ozarks, historian Brooks Blevins dives deep into the origin of that peculiar word—“Ozark”—and charts its journey across maps, cultures, and centuries. If you've ever wondered where the name came from, how it got tied to Arkansas and Missouri, or why it doesn’t include parts of the land it once did, this episode is a storytelling masterclass in regional history. Summary: From 17th-century French explorers to 20th-century federal agencies, the Ozarks have worn many names—and claimed many shapes. In this inaugural "long sweetening," Dr. Blevins unpacks the etymology, evolution, and even political reshaping of the Ozark identity. Learn how rivers, ridges, steamboats, and even naval vessels played roles in shaping what we now call the Ozarks. And yes—he finally settles the score between the Ozark and the Washitaw Mountains. (Spoiler: The U.S. Board on Geographic Names had a hand in it.) 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.

Drumroll please, we have a new show: 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.” Support for this episode: ⁠⁠⁠Vortex Optics⁠⁠⁠ - Industry-defining scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars ⁠⁠⁠Moultrie Mobile⁠⁠⁠ - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integration ⁠⁠⁠Umarex Airguns⁠⁠⁠ - The leader in Air Rifle technology 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

You can’t take a step in the Ozarks without walking on food—but most of us don’t even realize it. In this rich and thought-provoking episode of The Ozark Podcast, renowned forager, author, and primitive skills expert Bo Brown joins Kyle Veit and Kyle Plunkett for a deep dive into the history, science, and culture of foraging in the Ozarks. Whether you're a seasoned outdoorsman or just forage-curious, this episode will forever change how you see the plants under your feet. Support for this episode: ⁠⁠Vortex Optics⁠⁠ - Industry-defining scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars ⁠⁠Moultrie Mobile⁠⁠ - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integration ⁠⁠Umarex Airguns⁠⁠ - The leader in Air Rifle technology 00:00 – The Ozarks: where every step is food if you know what to look for 11:00 – The nutritional problem with industrial agriculture 17:10 – Historical Ozark foraging and Native American influence 30:10 – The ethics of sustainable foraging and harvesting roots 38:10 – Why regenerative agriculture gives Bo hope 55:00 – Could you live off foraging, fishing, and hunting for a year? 01:02:00 – Wild mushrooms, cooking methods, and false morels 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

Turkey camp in the Ozarks is about a lot more than tagging a bird—it's about camaraderie, chasing gobbles at sunrise, laughing around the fire, and learning lessons that only come from the hills. In this episode of The Ozark Podcast, the Kyles—including Sam Hallam, Bear Newcomb, John Whittinghill, and Jack Barclay—recount the highs, lows, and unforgettable stories from an action-packed week of turkey hunting. Whether you’ve hunted for years or are chasing your first bird, this episode captures the true spirit of a spring turkey camp. Support for this episode: ⁠Vortex Optics⁠ - Industry-defining scopes, rangefinders, and binoculars ⁠Moultrie Mobile⁠ - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integration ⁠Umarex Airguns⁠ - The leader in Air Rifle technology 00:00 – Trailer 03:00 – Turkey Stories 50:00 – Reflections: What each hunter learned and why turkey camp matters 01:00:00 – Camp awards: Best bird, best cook, best stealth move, and biggest heart 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

In the heart of the Ozarks lies a native fish species that tells a bigger story—not just about streams and scales, but about identity, ecology, and cultural heritage. In this special episode of The Ozark Podcast, we take you inside a unique panel presentation that unites science, management, and culture to explore the past, present, and uncertain future of the Neosho Bass—a true Ozark original.Hosted at a regional conservation summit, this three-part live presentation features USGS research scientist Dr. Jim Long, Arkansas Game & Fish’s Jeremy Risley, and podcast host Kyle Veit. Together, they trace the historical discovery, genetic uniqueness, and conservation challenges facing the Neosho Bass.Support for this episodeVortex Optics - Industry-defining scopes, rangefinders, and binocularsMoultrie Mobile - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integrationUmarex Airguns - The leader in Air Rifle technology00:00 – Opening remarks and the unique structure of the panel08:30 – Dr. Jim Long on the scientific origins and taxonomy of the Neosho Bass30:00 – Jeremy Risley on the Arkansas Game & Fish strategy for Neosho conservation44:00 – Kyle Veit: Why the Neosho Bass is more than a fish—it’s a symbolWhat 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 MatthewsTheme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD ClaytonCatch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcastPLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: theozarkpodcast@gmail.com

When the redbuds bloom and the gobbles echo down the hollers, spring has officially arrived in the Ozarks. In this episode, we sit down with seasoned Turkey hunters Sam Hallam and Bear Newcomb to break down everything from pre-season scouting strategies, to reading a bird’s temperature in the moment, and how to avoid the most common mistake made by turkey hunters.Whether you’re new to Turkey hunting or looking to tag out this spring, this is your go-to guide to chasing longbeards in the Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri backcountry.Support for this episodeVortex Optics - Industry-defining scopes, rangefinders, and binocularsMoultrie Mobile - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integrationUmarex Airguns - The leader in Air Rifle technology00:00 – Introduction05:40 – The toughest part of hunting Ozark turkeys14:30 – How and when to scout: glassing fields, roosting, and road listening25:15 – Elevation, thermals, and how topography affects Turkey movement42:30 – The biggest mistake: walking away when a bird goes quiet01:03:35 – Turkey camp plans and what makes it all worth itWhat 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 MatthewsTheme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD ClaytonCatch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcastPLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: theozarkpodcast@gmail.com

Smallmouth bass are more than just a native fish—they’re the true emblem of Ozark angling. In this episode, we reconnect with expert fly fishing guide Ben Levin for a deep dive into the creeks, rivers, and strategies that define smallmouth fishing in the Ozarks.If you’ve ever wondered what separates a good smallmouth creek from a great one—or which fly patterns actually catch fish—this episode is your new go-to field guide.Book a trip with Ben: Fly South AdventuresSupport for this episodeVortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binocularsMoultrie Mobile - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integrationUmarex Airguns - The leader in Air Rifle technology00:00 – Introduction10:00 – How weather, water levels, and sunlight impact fish behavior15:40 – What makes a great smallmouth creek20:10 – Minnow vs. crawfish: What Ozark smallmouth are really eating26:30 – Smallmouth as the soul of Ozark fishing31:00 – Seasonal breakdown: pre-spawn to winter tactics35:00 – Ben’s top 3 flies and how to fish themWhat 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 MatthewsTheme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD ClaytonCatch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcastPLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: theozarkpodcast@gmail.com

The White River in Arkansas has quietly become one of the premier caddis hatch destinations in the country. In this episode, fly fishing legend Ben Levin joins us for an in-depth, no-fluff masterclass on fishing the caddis hatch: how it works, why it’s exploding in popularity, and exactly how to fish it to catch both numbers and trophy browns.Whether you’re new to fly fishing or a seasoned angler looking to master a specific hatch, this episode is a deep dive into the science, art, and strategy of fly fishing the spring caddis hatch on the White River. Ben’s experience and insight are unmatched, and his storytelling brings the Ozarks to life.Book a trip with Ben: Fly South AdventuresSupport for this episodeVortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binocularsMoultrie Mobile - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integrationUmarex Airguns - The leader in Air Rifle technology[00:00] Why Ben keeps coming back to the Ozarks after fishing around the world[07:00] How the White River has evolved into a world-class trout fishery[10:00] Understanding the caddis hatch: history, timing, and impact of minimum flow[14:00] Why bug numbers exploded post-2011 and how it affects trout behavior[19:00] How the caddis hatch rivals those in Montana and Colorado[21:00] The full caddis lifecycle and when trout are most likely to feed[28:00] Dry fly vs. pupa patterns: what works and when[34:00] How to identify, imitate, and fish each stage of the hatch[39:00] Best months and conditions to fish the caddis hatch[42:00] Top fly patterns: The Sunday Special and buggy guide variations[45:00] Where to find the most productive hatch zones on the river[47:00] Strategy for targeting big brown trout during the hatch[52:00] The 31-inch brown trout story that landed Ben in a MeatEater articleWhat 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 MatthewsTheme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD ClaytonCatch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcastPLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: theozarkpodcast@gmail.com

As spring hits full swing in the Ozarks, it's prime time to hit the water—and in this episode of The Ozark Podcast, guide Jon Conklin of FishOn Guide Service is back to help us do just that. Whether you’re targeting crappie, chasing trophy stripers, or just trying to become a better angler, Jon offers a masterclass in multi-species fishing on Beaver Lake and beyond. We also dive into conservation concerns and how increased pressure on Ozark lakes is affecting fish populations and habitat.If you're looking to fish smarter—not harder—this episode is full of practical advice for anglers at every level. Learn how to adjust your tactics for seasonal patterns, increase your hookup rates with lighter tackle, and become a more conservation-minded outdoorsman in the Ozarks.Support for this episodeVortex Optics - Industry leading scopes, rangefinders, and binocularsMoultrie Mobile - The ONLY cell trail cameras with A.I. integrationUmarex Airguns - The leader in Air Rifle technology[00:00] Why crappie are fun, delicious, and an ideal target for spring anglers[04:30] Multi-species fishing: Why it's essential for success on tough lakes like Beaver[10:00] Crappie 101: Pre-spawn vs. spawn behavior, best setups, and jig colors[15:45] How to find spawning crappie and read water clarity for success[22:00] Bu jigs, tube jigs, and when to use natural vs. bright color baits[27:00] Light-line striper fishing: Downsizing tackle to get more bites[34:00] How to fight a big striper properly and land more fish[40:30] Finding bait balls and how irregular shad patterns reveal feeding activity[45:00] Summer trolling tips for catching suspended crappie[47:15] Conservation concerns: Wake boats, shoreline erosion, and fishery decline[54:00] Why angler education and ethical fishing are crucial for the Ozarks' futureWhat 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 MatthewsTheme music: 'American Millionaire' by JD ClaytonCatch up with us on Instagram and Facebook @theozarkpodcastPLEASE reach out to us with any recommendations or inquiries: theozarkpodcast@gmail.com