Ron Hayes shares his unique journey from law enforcement and his love of breakdancing to becoming a renowned wildlife photographer. In this episode, Ron discusses his early life, diverse musical tastes, and childhood adventures in Wyoming. Delve into his transition from law enforcement to photography, his approach to capturing stunning wildlife images, and the importance of experiences over social media fame. Listen in as Ron and Cole recount their adventures in Churchill with polar Bears, and beyond!

Connect with Ron Hayes

https://www.westernwildlifeimages.com

Connect with Cole Waltner @ChasingTheWildOutdoors

00:00 Introduction and Musical Tastes

00:55 Breakdancing Champion of the 80s

06:11 Life on the Ranch and Early Influences

08:56 Family History and Heritage

20:59 Transition to Law Enforcement

23:14 Photography as a Passion and Career

47:26 Challenges and Rewards of Wildlife Photography

51:49 Frustrations and Rewards in Wildlife Photography

52:15 Memorable Moments with Beluga Whales

54:23 Polar Bear Adventures and Future Plans

59:53 The Importance of Simplifying Gear

01:08:39 The Impact of Social Media on Photography

01:18:49 The Challenges of Wildlife Photography

01:19:07 Upcoming Wildlife Expeditions

01:22:54 The Unique Appeal of the Coast Guard

01:34:33 Influences and Inspirations in Photography

01:45:43 Returning from Break: Camera Trapping Insights

01:47:10 Mastering Light in Wildlife Photography

01:49:54 Ethics and Controversies in Wildlife Photography

01:52:17 The Hypocrisy of Baiting in Wildlife Photography

01:56:55 Challenges and Joys of Wildlife Photography

01:59:56 The Importance of Capturing Moments

02:19:15 Beyond the Wild Podcast: A New Beginning

02:23:16 Cherishing Experiences and Relationships

Wow, we jumped all over the place in this one but it was fun!! Cody Schlehuber of SensoryPhotography.com catches us up on his recent trip to the Carolinas and discusses the development of his new photography studio located in a historic building in Columbus, Montana. Joined by Cole Waltner from @ChasingTheWildOutdoors and Shelby Burrows of BadCanyonFence.com the conversation spans Hurricane Helene, to psychological effects on wartime drone pilots, and some interesting local history as well!

00:00 Introduction: What Would You Do Different?

00:14 Hurricane Experience in South Carolina

00:42 Military Life and Training Stories

01:52 Graduation Day Challenges

03:22 Post-Graduation Reflections

07:00 Pride and Accomplishments

29:58 Capturing Wildlife on Film

31:02 Proud Parents and Career Beginnings

31:51 Local Legends and Stories

32:39 The Art of Traditional Hunting

35:31 Six Degrees of Separation

54:45 Mining and Military Stories

01:03:25 Drone Warfare: The New Face of Combat

01:03:37 Psychological Toll on Drone Pilots

01:04:28 Disturbing Drone Footage on Social Media

01:06:04 Advancements in Military Technology

01:07:09 AI in Warfare: Ethical Concerns

01:09:32 Thermal and Infrared Technology

01:12:54 Civilian Use of Drones

01:22:43 Generational Perspectives on War

01:30:17 Conspiracy Theories and Societal Distrust

01:43:33 The Importance of Knowledge Transfer

01:44:04 Community and Survival

01:44:18 The Temptation of Hoarding Resources

01:44:31 The Value of Knowledge in Crisis

01:45:14 Archiving Information for Future Use

01:45:46 The Reality of Losing Skills

01:50:05 The Mental Strain of Survival

01:52:35 Human Nature in Desperation

01:54:00 Innovative Survival Techniques

01:56:47 The Chaos of Modern Society

01:59:21 The Importance of Community Planning

02:06:24 Conspiracy Theories and Societal Collapse

02:21:23 The Nature of Wealth Distribution

02:22:41 Lottery Winners and Financial Mismanagement

02:23:05 Montana Millionaire Lottery

02:27:15 The Journey to Owning a Photography Studio

02:33:03 Renovating a Historic Building

02:36:10 Preserving Local History

02:52:14 Transforming a Bathroom into a Changing Area

02:52:37 Pumpkin Head Photo Shoot Plans

02:52:55 Reconnecting with Dallas and Special K

02:55:19 Memories of Alex and Photography Ideas

03:00:22 Community Projects and Revitalization

03:03:21 Nostalgia and Local History

03:09:46 Boy Scouts, Skills, and Community Changes

03:17:05 Challenges and Future of the Community

03:19:34 Preserving History and Final Thoughts

Curtis Schomer takes us on a journey from his mining career at Sibanye Stillwater Mine to his active involvement in local politics. From navigating life's challenges to reflecting on societal changes, Curtis shares his insights, and doubles down on his commitment to fostering a better Montana.

For context this was recorded Feb 2, 2024

Curtis Schomer is running for Montana House District 48 can be reached at SchomerForMontana.com

00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Curtis Schomer

00:21 Mining Stories and Experiences

10:53 Transition to Politics and Community Involvement

15:57 Challenges and Issues in Local Politics

18:23 Homelessness and Social Issues

24:30 Climate Change and Environmental Concerns

30:40 Election Integrity and Local Governance

38:23 Discussing the Convention of States

38:53 Fear of Loss of Identity in Society

39:28 Importance of State Leadership

41:27 Reflections on Civil War and Society

44:21 The Cycle of Strong and Weak Men

49:11 The Victim Mentality in Modern Culture

49:59 The Impact of COVID-19 on Society

01:05:46 The Importance of Preparedness

01:10:24 Montana's Rich History and Personal Stories

01:16:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Join us in this captivating episode as we explore the incredible journey of Kenn Solomon, famous as Rocky the Mountain Lion, the long-time mascot for the Denver Nuggets. With 33 years in the industry, Kenn shares heartfelt and humorous stories of his rise from a non-verbal child to an iconic NBA mascot. Hear about his audition adventures, memorable pranks, and the thrilling experience of winning an NBA championship. Discover his inspiring persistence, creative improvisation, and behind-the-scenes interactions with sports legends like Charles Barkley, Michael Jordan, John Elway, and Peyton Manning. Don't miss this fascinating look into the life of a professional mascot who turned passion into an extraordinary career.

Kenn Solomon can be found here:

https://linktr.ee/superkenn?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

00:00 Welcome to the Big Fat Podcast

00:33 Kenn’s Career as Rocky the Mountain Lion

03:05 The Championship Parade Experience

13:30 Family Involvement in Mascot Life

15:00 Kenn’s Journey to Becoming a Mascot

18:11 High School and College Mascot Adventures

29:52 The Path to the Denver Nuggets

36:26 The Mascot Journey Begins

36:46 Crafting the Perfect Portfolio

37:41 The Big Recommendation

38:02 Meeting the College President

39:54 Nailing the Tryouts

43:00 The NBA Transition

49:09 Charles Barkley Encounters

53:11 The Stilt Strategy

01:09:21 The Jersey Swap

01:11:24 The Geraldo Rivera Prank

01:13:05 John Elway's Unexpected Tackle

01:21:39 Peyton Manning's Pass

01:29:11 Michael Jordan's Signed Basketball

01:38:45 Reflecting on a Blessed Career

Matt Weber, Owner/CEO of Alpha Overhead Door in Montana, shares the values that guide him as he builds Alpha Overhead into something that not only fulfills his family's dreams, but also meets the needs and aspirations of every individual and their families employed by his company. From sharing a single bedroom with his parents and siblings as a young boy, to assembling a team of business and personal mentors whom he meets with weekly, Matt discusses the entrepreneurial legacy passed down to him, the challenges he's faced, and the rewards of giving back to his community!

Connect with Matt at AlphaOverhead.com

Also in Studio: Cole Waltner of @ChasingTheWildOutdoors

00:00:00 - Intro

00:01:13 - Morning Routines, Health, Aging

00:25:22 - Childhood & Background

00:36:09 - 911: “Where Were You…”

00:45:33 - Presidential Debate

01:29:14 - Alpha Overhead Door AlphaOverhead.com

02:16:22 - Who Are Your Mentors?

02:22:47 - What Podcasts Do You Listen To?

02:30:58 - What Are Your Go-To Tunes To Chill Out?

02:40:02 - What Apps Do You Use The Most?

02:44:57 - Audiobooks

02:53:30 - “Tough Man Complex” & Mental Health

Marine Veteran, Cybersecurity Specialist, and Co-Founder/Owner of "The Bearded Viking Mead Co." located along the banks of the Yellowstone River in Columbus, Montana, JT Robertson, shares his journey- laced with what he describes as "divine intervention”, from a Pagan perspective. JT prophesies that he will be known as "The Alexander the Great of Mead." This episode is "No-Holds-Barred," so put the kids to bed, kick up your feet, and pour yourself a mead for this one!

JT can be found @ beardedviking.com

Also in Studio- Cole Waltner @chasingthewildoutdoors

This episode was actually recorded during the first 40 minutes of the previous Episode #37 when Cole shared his trip to Churchill in the Arctic Circle photographing Polar Bears. We got sidetracked and had an interesting discussion about some of the amazing "Wild West" type characters that lived here in our part of Montana and how those wild and often violent times weren't really that long ago. Instead of leaving this sidetracked session on the "cutting room floor", I thought it might be interesting to fellow amateur historians and maybe even inspire some to "go down some rabbit holes" to learn more about the likes of "Wildcat" Bill Hamilton and "Colonel" Allen.

The title of Bill Hamiltons amazing life story is,

"My Sixty Years On The Plains: Trapping, Trading And Indian Fighting"