#170 Josh Walker - Retired 2 Hunt
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Josh Walker - Former NFL Offensive Lineman, Outdoorsman, Conservationist, and Host of Retired 2 Hunt Podcast. From a young age, Josh had a true passion for outdoor life and hunting. After playing football throughout his adolescence, collegiate, and five years in the National Football League. Josh now spends his time focused on being the best do-it-yourself hunter sharing his experiences with others for inspiration, education, and some laughs along the way. Tune in as Josh Walker joins Bobby Marshall in studio to discuss hunting, professional sports, NFL, wildlife, outdoor life, and much more. Please subscribe or like us on social media platforms for updates on shows, events, and episode drops.
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Hunting is an age-old practice that blends the thrill of adventure, mastery of survival skills, and a profound connection with nature. In this intimate and candid conversation with Josh Walker, an NFL veteran and an avid outdoorsman, we dive deep into what it truly means to be a hunter. Josh's stories and insights shed light on the intricacies of hunting, the emotions involved, and the respect he has for wildlife.
A Special Guest on The Mountain Side Podcast
Bobby welcomes Josh Walker back to the Mountain Side Podcast:
"This is the Mountain Side Podcast and joining us in studio once again is my good friend, Josh Walker. He's an NFL vet playing in the league at the highest level. He's an outdoorsman, conservationist, bow hunter, and always a blast to be around. I always enjoy having Josh in the studio. This was a great conversation.
Their rapport is evident as they dive straight into a conversation blending fitness, hunting, and their shared passion for the outdoors.
The Hunter's Fitness Regimen
Fitness and hunting are deeply intertwined. Josh mentions how important it is to stay in shape, not just for the aesthetics but for practicality. He talks about his routine:
Josh relates to this, acknowledging that while the gym has its merits, nothing beats the genuine experience of working out in nature. They both appreciate the physical and mental preparation that's crucial for hunting.
The Wilderness Experience
As Josh & Bobby share their experiences, it's clear that hunting is not just about taking down game; it's about the connection with nature and the respect for the animals.
During the conversation, Josh and Bobby discuss different terrains, hunting techniques, and the immense joy of being out in the wilderness. Hunting, for them, is a journey filled with learning and respect for the wildlife they pursue.
Embracing Tradition and Wildlife Conservation
Josh’s passion for hunting is deeply rooted in tradition and conservation. He takes pride in understanding animal behavior and respecting their habitats:
"To me, and I think, a lot of the success I've been fortunate enough to have in the woods comes down to, I love animals and I love learning about them and learning about their biology."
This love for animals and nature is a common thread among true hunters, dispelling the misconception that hunters are merely out to kill. As they delve into the specifics of turkey hunting, Josh emphasizes the importance of learning and adapting to the environment:
"Learn the animal as best you can. And their behaviors. Because, you know, like, say, let's say a turkey, like, his best sense is going to be his eyesight. Period."
The Realities of the Hunt
Hunting is far from easy. It’s physically demanding, requiring immense mental toughness and resilience. Josh shares a personal story illustrating his unpredictable nature.
Through such stories, Josh brings to life the raw and unfiltered experience of hunting and fishing, complete with its challenges and rewards.
The Emotional Rollercoaster
Bobby and Josh both agree that hunting elicits a range of emotions—from euphoria to shock and even a tinge of sorrow for ending a life. Josh reflects on these feelings candidly:
"When you see me celebrate there's nothing more heartbreaking than wounding an animal, bro. I'm only speaking for myself. I can't speak for everybody else. And what I will say is any legal method of hunting, I'm all for it. But what I'll say is this. When you follow me and you see me get fired up about a shot or kill an animal It's because I did it very cleanly and very ethically. I'm celebrating that It's not about killing thing. It's about how fast it went because that's what I want.”
Respect and Understanding
Josh and Bobby emphasize that the emotion and thrill of a successful hunt come from respect and understanding of the game. This includes recognizing the vital role hunting plays in wildlife management and conservation.
"People don't understand. I think that this long-form content, is the best social media to actually portray somebody. Like sitting down with you and having a two-hour conversation." Bobby explains the importance of genuine conversations in truly understanding the nuances of hunting.
Conclusion: Sharing the Authentic Hunting Experience
Through their conversation, Josh and Bobby highlight the authentic joys and challenges of hunting, underscoring its deep connection with nature and respect for wildlife. For both of them, hunting is about more than just the kill—it's about the entire experience, the thrill of the chase, and the profound respect for the animals and the environment & providing substance for family, friends & self.
To truly understand and appreciate hunting, one must go beyond the surface-level stereotypes and delve into the genuine stories and experiences of those who live it. As Josh Walker and Bobby demonstrate in their engaging conversation, hunting, when done ethically and respectfully, is a celebration of nature, tradition, and the primal connections we all share with the wild.