This dynamic podcast provides an insider’s look at how fish and wildlife conservation efforts are funded and carried out in the United States. Through engaging conversations, the series highlights the often-overlooked contributions of state wildlife agencies, manufacturers, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and industry leaders. With episodes available on major platforms like YouTube, PodBean, Spotify, Audible, Apple Podcasts, IHeart Radio, and others. Connecting with Conservation is designed to educate, entertain, and inspire anyone with an interest in the outdoors.

Co-hosted by Dr. Jon Gassett, Southeastern Field Representative for WMI, Jim Curcuruto, Executive Director of OSCF, and Scot Lavin of Tyee Resources, the podcast serves as a platform for guests to share their role in the conservation machine as well as their organization’s experiences as a partner. The conversational format makes each 30-minute episode both accessible and engaging, giving listeners a chance to hear stories rarely told in the public sphere.

“The outdoor industry doesn’t get the credit it deserves when it comes to conservation,” says Dr. Gassett. “This is largely due to a lack of communication among partners and stakeholders such as hunters, anglers, boaters, recreational shooters, and the general public.”

The podcast aims to bridge this communication gap by spotlighting unsung heroes and their contributions to outdoor recreation and conservation. With episodes featuring a variety of voices—from wildlife agency officials to corporate leaders—Connecting with Conservation offers fresh insights into how conservation is managed and funded across America.

Some of the standout episodes from the first season include:

• Tom Taylor (Sig Sauer)
  Tom Taylor, Executive Vice President of Global Brand Development at Sig Sauer, shares insights into the company’s initiatives, such as Sig Academy, ROSE, and Sig Connect. He also discusses how Sig Sauer’s internal culture of hunting led to a robust hunting product line.
• Joel Hodgdon (RCBS Reloading)
  Joel Hodgdon, Marketing Director at RCBS Reloading, delves into the growing market for ammunition reloading and offers practical advice for those interested in learning this valuable skill.
• Alex Royzen (OpticsPlanet)
  Alex Royzen, Managing Director at OpticsPlanet, recounts his unconventional journey into hunting and emphasizes the importance of introducing new people to outdoor activities. He also discusses how OpticsPlanet supports outdoor enthusiasts with a wide range of products.

Other episodes feature industry leaders such as Christian Hogg, Director of Marketing at Fiocchi USA, Karen Waldrop, Chief Conservation Officer for Ducks Unlimited, and Emily Cope, Deputy Director of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. Each guest brings unique perspectives and stories, showcasing the depth and diversity of conservation work.

A Shared Mission: Conservation Through Collaboration

The collaboration between WMI, OSCF, and Tyee Resources reflects a shared commitment to advancing conservation efforts through innovative communication. Since its founding in 1911, WMI has championed the restoration and management of wildlife populations and their habitats. Similarly, OSCF has worked tirelessly to improve cultural acceptance of activities like hunting, fishing, trapping, and target shooting while fostering the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts.

“Our goal is to make conservation accessible and relatable,” says Curcuruto. “With so many listening options and limited free time, we wanted to keep Connecting with Conservation short and impactful. Each episode is packed with stories about how land, fish, and wildlife conservation is truly managed and funded in America."

The podcast is supported by a Multi-State Conservation Grant (F24AP00224), jointly administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Office of Conservation Investment and the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. This funding underscores the importance of connecting audiences with the complex processes and partnerships that make conservation possible.

Join the Conversation

As Connecting with Conservation embarks on its second season, the podcast promises to continue delivering thought-provoking content for outdoor enthusiasts and conservation advocates alike. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter, an amateur angler, or simply curious about how conservation impacts local economies and ecosystems, this podcast offers something for everyone.

For those interested in sharing their own stories or representing their organizations on the podcast, reaching out to Dr. Jon Gassett (jgassett@wildlifemgt.org) or Jim Curcuruto (Jim@stewardsofconservation.org) is encouraged.

Through the voices of its guests and the dedication of its hosts, Connecting with Conservation shines a spotlight on the individuals, businesses, and organizations working behind the scenes to protect and promote America’s natural resources. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and be inspired by the incredible world of wildlife conservation.