Episodes

In this episode of Talk is Sheep, host Kyle Stelter sits down with Justin Kallusky for an honest, vulnerable conversation about men’s mental health, the pressures men face, and the healing power of time spent in wild places. Kyle and Justin unpack the cultural expectations around “being a man,” the stigma that keeps so many guys silent, and why asking for help is actually one of the bravest things you can do. Justin shares his own mental health journey, how the outdoors became a lifeline, and h...

In this episode of Talk is Sheep, Kyle sits down with wildlife scientist Dr. Clayton Lamb to dig into the state of bighorn sheep and wildlife conservation in British Columbia’s Kootenays. From rugged winter ranges to busy valley-bottom highways, Clayton walks us through the complex landscape these sheep are trying to survive in. We explore how decades of fire exclusion have choked out historic sheep range, and why thinning and slashing are often just the first step toward meaningful habitat res...

In this episode, we sit down with one of the most recognizable new faces in BC’s mountain hunting community — Tysen Bjorn, owner of Custom Pack Rigging, sheep hunter, devoted dad, and a guy who doesn’t do anything halfway. Tysen shares the unlikely, honest, and downright gritty story of how he went from a Lower Mainland kid with no horses in his life… to a full-blown horseback mountain hunter with a 15-horse string and ownership of one of the most iconic pack gear companies in Western Canada. ...

In this episode, Kyle connects with Dallas Safari Club Executive Director, Russell Stacy and Brian Fienhold, Director of Development. from the Dallas Safari Club (DSC) to discuss the organization's mission, global impact, and the importance of conservation and education in the hunting community. They explore the role of volunteers, the success of the DSC convention, and the recent Summer Gala, which saw record attendance and fundraising. The conversation highlights the evolution of DSC as a lead...

In this inspiring episode of Talk Is Sheep, we welcome Keia Holm to discuss the importance of empowering young women in the conservation space. Keia shares her insights on leadership, courage, and redefining what it means to be involved in conservation. We also discuss her journey to hunting and how she grew up in a family that was not supportive of hunting. Keia highlights how women are shaping the future of conservation and why their voices are vital to the movement. She reminds us that conse...

In this episode of Talk Is Sheep, host Kyle Stelter welcomes Justin Spring, Executive Director of Pope and Young, for a deep dive into one of North America’s most respected bowhunting organizations. Justin shares how Pope and Young is championing ethical bowhunting, wildlife conservation, and hunter advocacy in today’s rapidly changing landscape. From preserving the legacy of fair chase to expanding their conservation footprint, Justin outlines how the organization is blending tradition with mo...

In this episode of Talk Is Sheep, hosts Kyle Stelter and Greg Rensmaag, President of the Wild Sheep Society of BC, for an engaging update on everything happening within the Society. The two discuss major upcoming events including the Salute to Conservation & Mountain Hunting Expo and the Northern Fundraiser in Dawson Creek, while also highlighting membership promotions, current conservation projects, and what’s on the horizon for wild sheep recovery in British Columbia. Greg and Kyle dive into ...

We sit down with the leadership team behind the newly launched Canadian Wildlife Conservation Partners (CWCP) for an in-depth conversation on Talk is Sheep. Fresh off their September debut, we welcome CWCP Chair Chris Everett, Vice-Chair Brian McRae, and founding partner representatives Doug Chiasson and Kyle Stelter (host) to unpack the vision behind this new national collaborative. The group shares the why, the how, and what Canadians can expect from the CWCP as it gains momentum. With fourt...

Talk Is Sheep Podcast – Episode: Maddie Richards | Kicked Out We welcome Maddie Richards to the podcast to talk about conservation, hunting, family, and her new "Kicked Out" series on the Wild Sheep Foundation’s "Sheep Fever" podcast platform. Maddie is a dedicated, hardcore, and accomplished hunter, having taken several trophy-class animals. This fall, she arrowed a pronghorn antelope buck and continues to spend her weekends and time off chasing elk in Montana. As the Membership Manager for ...

We welcome two hardcore mountain hunters to the podcast — Anthony Klubi and Brandon Roth. These guys have been grinding it out in sheep country for the better part of a decade, yet the elusive ram has always slipped through their fingers. That changed this year. After an early-season hunt that came up short on harvest but full of lessons, Anthony and Brandon laced up their boots once again and pushed back into the mountains in pursuit of a mature Stone’s ram. 179 kilometres on foot and fifteen...

We welcome Pursue the Wild host Kristy Titus to Talk Is Sheep! Fresh off an incredible Fannin Sheep hunt with Blackstone Outfitters in the Yukon, Kristy shares the story of harvesting her second North American wild sheep. We retrace Kristy’s steps on this memorable adventure, discuss her journey toward completing the Grand Slam of North American wild sheep, and look ahead to what’s next on her list. Throughout the conversation, Kristy’s gratitude shines through—for the guides, outfitters, pilo...

The Wild Sheep Jurassic Classic is truly an experience like no other. This past August, 56 conservation-minded anglers joined us on the Fraser River to raise funds for wild sheep. Beyond the camaraderie, fresh air, and world-class sturgeon fishing, the event is about something bigger—coming together to celebrate and support our wild sheep resource. Over the years, the Jurassic Classic has generated more than half a million dollars for wild sheep conservation, with a major focus on the Fraser Ri...

We welcome Doug Chiasson, Executive Director of the Fur Institute of Canada, to the podcast. Doug shares the rich history of Canada’s trapping industry and the critical work being done to preserve trapping and promote sustainable use. Our conversation explores the growing threats to hunting, trapping, and conservation, with a deep dive into the seal industry. Doug highlights how current regulations and market pressures affect not only the seal resource but also the broader fishing resource. Wi...

We welcome Chuck Peeling to the podcast to share his recent journey into BC’s rugged North in pursuit of a mature Stone’s Sheep. A dyed-in-the-wool hunter, Chuck had long dreamed of notching his first wild sheep tag — and this year, that dream became reality. We dig into his approach, why he held out for the one, and what it meant when he finally anchored a tremendous Stone’s ram. Together, we relive the moments of challenge, perseverance, and the unforgettable rush of success. Beyond the hunt...

Back from the Wild: Sixteen Days in Pursuit of Stone’s Sheep We sit down with Hana and Rebecca as they return to everyday life after sixteen days in the deep wild chasing Stone’s Sheep. These two adventurers kicked off sheep season with a fly-in hunt, spending two weeks in pursuit of Rebecca’s very first ram. Hana, an experienced sheep hunter, took on the role of mentor, guiding Rebecca through her first true off-the-grid mountain hunt. From the highs of breathtaking moments to the lows that t...

In this special episode, we welcome a true legend in wildlife conservation and hunting — Mr. Whitetail himself, Larry Weishuhn. With over six decades of experience as a wildlife biologist, outdoor writer, television personality, and advocate, Larry shares his inspiring journey, the passion that drives him, and his unwavering commitment to conservation. We explore the evolving perception of hunters in society, discussing ways to improve public understanding and bridge the growing urban-rural div...

We sit down with WSSBC Vice President Chris Barker to discuss what is happening in the wild sheep world. We receive updates on our three legacy projects. Specifically: Fraser River Test and Remove Okanagan Bighorn Disease - Psoroptes Trial Northern Prescribed Burn Chris also dives into a story as he has been accused of never talking about his hunting experiences. This is a great update on the work the Society, our members and partners are doing. Presented by: SITKA Gear Supported by: Front...

In this episode of Talk is Sheep, we welcome Sam Cunningham to the podcast for a deep dive into one of the Lone Star State’s most pressing wild sheep issues, Aoudad. Often overlooked and sometimes glamorized, aoudad (Barbary sheep) have become a major concern for native wildlife managers. Sam breaks down the challenges these non-native invaders pose to desert bighorn populations, the ecological ripple effects across West Texas, and what’s being done to mitigate the damage. If you're a sheep hu...

Greg and Kyle sit down with Omer Hrbinic for a conversation that started out focused on gear and upcoming fall hunts but quickly transformed into something much deeper. Omer—the gear guru, but also a deep thinker and self-described spiritual individual —opens up about the wild sheep community and what it truly means to be part of it. While the Wild Sheep Society’s mission is to protect wild sheep and their habitat, this discussion reveals that it’s about much more than conservation—it’s about c...

New Episode: Safeguarding Bighorns – A Health Initiative in the Kootenays In this episode, we’re joined by the Provincial Wildlife Veterinarian Caeley Thacker and WSSBC representative, Josh Hamilton to discuss an exciting new initiative aimed at protecting one of British Columbia’s most iconic species — the Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep. We’re proud to announce the launch of a comprehensive wild sheep health project in the Kootenay region. This collaborative effort will focus on gathering criti...

Mountain Ready Ep. 5 — Grit, Growth, and Getting It Done with Kaden Romain We’re back with the fifth installment of our Mountain Ready series — built for sheep hunters preparing for the rigours of fall in the high country. This time, we welcome seasoned mountain hunter Kaden Romain to the show. Kaden shares insights into the mindset of a veteran sheep hunter, recounting the highs and lows of a memorable trip marked by a brutal 48-hour snowstorm. Where many would have packed it in, Kaden and hi...

Podcast Episode: Healing in the Wild with Todd Hisey, Founder of The Veteran Hunters In this episode, we sit down with Todd Hisey, Founder and CEO of The Veteran Hunters Canada — a non-profit organization run by retired Canadian Armed Forces Veterans and First Responders who have experienced their own mental health journeys. The Veteran Hunters exists to serve fellow Veterans, Military Members, and First Responders by offering peer support and outdoor therapy through guided hunting and wildern...

Mountain Ready: Judging Rams with Mike Bridger We welcome back experienced sheep hunter and BC Wildlife Biologist Mike Bridger for the fourth installment of our Mountain Ready series. In this episode, we focus on how to prepare for your fall sheep hunt, with a deep dive into field judging and legal harvest practices. With high rates of illegal sheep harvest over the past decade, it’s more important than ever to hone your skills in the field. Mike shares practical, experience-based techniques t...

We’re thrilled to welcome back legendary guide Tanis Barkman to the podcast for the third installment in our Mountain Ready series — designed specifically for sheep hunters gearing up for their fall mountain hunts. In this episode, we dive deep into one of the most critical skills for alpine success: glassing. Tanis shares her proven strategies for making the most of your optics in the high country, offering insight that can make the difference between spotting a ram or going home empty-handed....