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Driftwood Outdoors Podcast

Driftwood Outdoors Podcast
299 episodes   Last Updated: Jun 17, 25
Join award-winning outdoor columnist Brandon Butler and renowned radio DJ Nathan "Shags" McLeod as they team up to bring you the ultimate Midwest outdoor adventure experience on the Driftwood Outdoors Podcast.Whether you're an avid hunter, passionate fisherman, or just love the great outdoors, this podcast is your go-to source for everything Midwest outdoor life. As the Midwest's outdoor authority, Driftwood Outdoors Podcast delivers a perfect blend of information and entertainment, covering topics like hunting, fishing, conservation, outdoor gear, and even a bit of fun with stories about Shags' Alien encounter!Every Tuesday morning, new episodes will take you on a journey through the wild, featuring exciting interviews, expert tips, and inspiring outdoor adventures. So, whether you're on the hunt for knowledge or just looking to have some fun, we invite you to join us on this wild ride.We’ll see you down the trail!

Episodes

 Brandon Butler and Nathan McLeod are joined by special guests Paddle Don, Derek Butler, and Adam Voight for an exciting deep dive into their upcoming first-ever trip to the legendary Boundary Waters of Minnesota.With candid conversation and plenty of laughs, the group discusses everything from essential gear and fishing plans to the unpredictable nature of wilderness travel—including food prep, bear safety, and the thrill (and challenge) of venturing into such a remote, pristine area. It’s a raw and relatable look at the anticipation and adventure of what could be a once-in-a-lifetime outdoor experience.Special thanks to:Living The Dream Outdoor PropertiesSuperior Foam Insulation LLCDoolittle TrailersScenic Rivers TaxidermyConnect with Driftwood Outdoors:FacebookInstagramYouTubeEmail:info@driftwoodoutdoors.com
Award-winning journalist Hal Herring joins Brandon Butler and Nathan McLeod for a deep dive into the critical issues facing public lands and conservation in America today. As a veteran writer for Field & Stream, The Atlantic Monthly, The Economist, and more, Herring brings a sharp perspective and years of investigative reporting to this no-holds-barred conversation.In this episode, the trio tackles the controversial attempted sale of public lands in Utah, the deceptive legislation that threatens our natural resources (a.k.a. the “big beautiful bill”), and how conservation is being caught up in political narratives and culture wars. They also discuss the problem of misinformation in outdoor media, answer the “mystery bait bucket" question and more. This thought-provoking discussion underscores the importance of staying informed and engaged in protecting wild places — and what’s at stake if we don’t.For more info:Hal Herring WebsiteHal Herring PodcastSpecial thanks to:Living The Dream Outdoor PropertiesSuperior Foam Insulation LLCDoolittle TrailersScenic Rivers TaxidermyConnect with Driftwood Outdoors:FacebookInstagramYouTubeEmail:info@driftwoodoutdoors.com
In this heartfelt and fish-filled episode, Brandon Butler and Nathan “Shags” McLeod sit down with longtime friend and avid angler Ryan “Milo” Miloshewski.The trio dives into Milo’s latest venture, Milo’s Flies, a new fly tying business born from passion and countless hours on the water. They swap fishing stories from Lake Taneycomo and the White River, test out new fly patterns, and reflect on the legacy of the late Chuck Gries of Anglers Outfitters, a beloved figure in the Ozarks fishing community who recently passed after a battle with cancer.Of course, it wouldn’t be Driftwood Outdoors without the Mystery Bait Bucket Question and a few laughs along the way.  Flies, friendships, and fishing—this one has it all.For more info: Milo's Flies FB pageMilo's Flies Instagramrmiloshewski@gmail.com(314) 799-8421Special thanks to:Living The Dream Outdoor PropertiesSuperior Foam Insulation LLCDoolittle TrailersScenic Rivers TaxidermyConnect with Driftwood Outdoors:FacebookInstagramYouTubeEmail:info@driftwoodoutdoors.com
Brandon Butler and Nathan “Shags” McLeod are joined by Michael Collins of Misty Mountain Guiding Service for a deep dive into fly fishing across the Midwest. From the clear streams of mid-Missouri to the legendary Driftless waters of Wisconsin and Iowa, the trio covers it all—smallmouth, trout, and the magic of chasing wild fish in wild places.They also get into fly tying, the evolving culture of conservation, and proposed changes from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) that could impact anglers and hunters alike. Other highlights include Brandon getting duped by internet misinformation, a discussion on Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), and of course, the always unpredictable Mystery Bait Bucket segment.Whether you're tying flies, planning your next trip, or just love a good campfire-style conversation—this episode delivers.For more info:Misty Mountains Guiding ServiceMMGS FacebookMMGS Instagrammmgsozarks@gmail.com573-823-9057Special thanks to:Living The Dream Outdoor PropertiesSuperior Foam Insulation LLCDoolittle TrailersScenic Rivers TaxidermyConnect with Driftwood Outdoors:FacebookInstagramYouTubeEmail:info@driftwoodoutdoors.com
In this flavorful episode, we’re joined by two Martha’s Vineyard legends—Johnny Graham, celebrity chef and owner of Revel Catering & Events, and Brett Stearns, Director of the Natural Resources Department for the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah). Together, they take us on a journey through the island’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and world-class food and fishing traditions.We dive into Brandon Butler’s ambitious “50 in 50 by 50” challenge—harvesting an animal in all 50 states before his 50th birthday—and hear the story behind his recent wild turkey hunt on the Vineyard with Johnny and Brett.From ocean-to-table cuisine and sustainable farming to tribal stewardship of the land and sea, this conversation is packed with passion, tradition, and a deep love for community and nature. And of course, don’t miss the always-unpredictable Mystery Bait Bucket segment!Whether you're a foodie, a hunter, or just someone who appreciates the beauty of a tight-knit island community, this episode has something for you.For more info: Revel WebsiteRevel Galley InstagramRevel Catering InstagramJohnny's InstagramWampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah)Special thanks to:Living The Dream Outdoor PropertiesSuperior Foam Insulation LLCDoolittle TrailersScenic Rivers TaxidermyConnect with Driftwood Outdoors:FacebookInstagramYouTubeEmail:info@driftwoodoutdoors.com
Brandon Butler and Nathan “Shags” McLeod sit down with Kevin Rhodes founder and operator of B4 Outdoors. B4 Outdoors is a 501(c)(3) non-profit committed to serving those who serve us, our communities, and our nation: veterans, first responders, and law enforcement officers. We provide these selfless servants with transformative outdoor experiences through hunting and fishing adventures. Additionally, opportunities for youth are provided in an effort to foster and nurture a love and respect for the outdoors and all it has to offer.For more info:B4 Outdoors WebsiteB4 Outdoors FacebookB4 Outdoors Instagramhunt@b4outdoors.comSpecial thanks to:Living The Dream Outdoor PropertiesSuperior Foam Insulation LLCDoolittle TrailersScenic Rivers TaxidermyConnect with Driftwood Outdoors:FacebookInstagramYouTubeEmail:info@driftwoodoutdoors.com
In this heartfelt episode, Nathan "Shags" McLeod returns to the mic after a month away with family, grieving the loss of his father. Joined by Brandon Butler, who’s calling in from a turkey hunt on Martha’s Vineyard with celebrity chef Johnny Graham, the conversation moves between mourning and memories to the healing power of the great outdoors. Brandon shares stories from the field, highlights his ambitious "50 in 50 by 50" quest—harvesting an animal in every state before he turns 50—and reflects on how time outside brings clarity in life’s toughest moments. This episode blends emotion, adventure, and the enduring bond of nature and family.Special thanks to:Living The Dream Outdoor PropertiesSuperior Foam Insulation LLCDoolittle TrailersScenic Rivers TaxidermyConnect with Driftwood Outdoors:FacebookInstagramYouTubeEmail:info@driftwoodoutdoors.com
With Shags still in Oregon due to the loss of his father, Brandon Butler calls in a couple of Driftwood Outdoors known associates to talk turkey at mid-season and other joys of spring. The Josh Lane and his three boys have already knocked down four birds. The Lanes rarely have an empty freezer. Josh shares their success stories on private and public land. Ryan Miloshewski checks in from Kansas City after returning home from a successful turkey hunting trip near the Gasconade River in Central Missouri. Walleye fishing, outdoor cooking, and the joys of Spring round out the episode.   Special thanks to:Living The Dream Outdoor PropertiesSuperior Foam Insulation LLCDoolittle TrailersScenic Rivers TaxidermyConnect with Driftwood Outdoors:FacebookInstagramYouTubeEmail:info@driftwoodoutdoors.com
Want to hear what the Missouri DOGE committee learned about Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD)? Listen to the actual audio from the Chronic Wasting Disease hearing conducted by the Missouri State Senate Committee on Government Efficiency, or DOGE.  Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) Director Jason Sumners testifies before the committee on the reasoning behind the state's handling of this unfortunate disease. For more info:MDC WebsiteMDC CWDSpecial thanks to:Living The Dream Outdoor PropertiesSuperior Foam Insulation LLCDoolittle TrailersScenic Rivers TaxidermyConnect with Driftwood Outdoors:FacebookInstagramYouTubeEmail:info@driftwoodoutdoors.com
Brandon Butler and Nathan “Shags” McLeod sit down with John Bledsoe creator and owner of the Co-Angler App. Co-Angler connects anglers for fishing trips, while also allowing them to share costs, making fishing more accessible, affordable, and enjoyable. From creating a personalized profile to exploring a customized home feed, Co-Angler lets you tailor your fishing experience to your preferences. Co-Angler BETA is our first product offering, aiming to build a vibrant community of anglers. Join us now and be part of the exciting journey from the ground floor, as Co-Angler is currently 100% free to useFor more info:Co-Angler WebsiteCo-Angler FBCo-Angler InstaCo-Angler YouTubeSpecial thanks to:Living The Dream Outdoor PropertiesSuperior Foam Insulation LLCDoolittle TrailersScenic Rivers TaxidermyConnect with Driftwood Outdoors:FacebookInstagramYouTubeEmail:info@driftwoodoutdoors.com