Sometimes the best conversations happen when there's no agenda. In this episode of Southern U, we're swapping notes, reliving memories, and sharing some of our favorite hunting stories from years spent in the woods. From close calls and missed opportunities to unforgettable hunts and lessons learned along the way, this episode is all about the experiences that keep us coming back season after season. Whether you're driving to work, headed to the farm, or sitting in a deer stand, pull up a chair and join us for a good old-fashioned storytelling session. What's the best hunting story you've ever been a part of? Drop it in the comments—we'd love to hear it. #southernu #huntingstories #whitetaildeerhunting #turkeyhunting #duckhunting #outdoors #HuntingPodcast #southernlifestyle #conservation #storytime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Depredation permits are one of the most misunderstood tools in wildlife management — especially here in the Southeast. In this episode, we sit down with two wildlife biologists to break down what depredation permits really are, why they exist, and how they impact landowners, farmers, hunters, and conservation efforts across the region. We cover: • The science behind wildlife population control • Feral hogs, predators, deer, and nuisance species • How permits are issued and regulated • Common misconceptions surrounding wildlife management • The balance between conservation and protecting property • Ethical questions surrounding depredation practices • The future of wildlife management in the Southeast Whether you’re a hunter, landowner, outdoorsman, conservationist, or just curious about how wildlife policy actually works, this conversation offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the realities biologists face every day. Be sure to like, subscribe, and share if you enjoy conversations about wildlife, conservation, hunting culture, and land stewardship. #WildlifeManagement #DepredationPermit #Conservation #FeralHogs #Hunting #WildlifeBiology #LandManagement #Outdoors #SoutheastHunting #ConservationTalk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every great hunting property has one thing in common—good habitat. But across the country, invasive plants are slowly taking over and pushing out the native vegetation that wildlife depends on. In this episode, we talk about what that looks like on real properties, how it affects hunting, and what it takes to turn things around. From deer movement to turkey nesting to quail habitat, it all starts with what’s growing on your land. If you’re serious about land ownership, stewardship, and better hunting, this episode is for you. #LandManagement#HuntingProperty#InvasiveSpecies#WildlifeHabitat #DeerManagement Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Spring is here—and everything is changing in the woods. In this episode, we sit down with a panel of habitat professionals to break down what’s really happening right now with wild turkeys. From nesting and brood-rearing habitat to nutrition and real-world hunting tactics, this conversation is packed with practical insights you can apply immediately. We dive into what turkeys need this time of year, the biggest mistakes landowners and hunters are making, and how small habitat changes can make a major impact on your property. Whether you manage land, love turkey hunting, or just want to understand wildlife better, this episode will give you a clearer game plan for spring. Topics covered: Spring turkey behavior & breeding cycle Nesting cover and brood habitat essentials Nutrition and insect availability for poults Habitat improvements that actually work Hunting tactics for pressured birds Common mistakes hurting turkey populations If you're serious about improving your land and seeing more turkeys, this is one you don’t want to miss. #turkeyhunting #wildturkey #habitatmanagement #landmanagement #whitetailhabitat #huntingtips #turkeyseason #wildlifemanagement #DeerAndTurkey #outdoorlife #conservation #foodplots #huntingland #SpringHunting #SouthernOutdoors Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens to wildlife when the timber market crashes? In this episode, we break down the ripple effects of a declining timber market—and how it’s quietly impacting wildlife habitat and land management across the country. As lumber prices fall and mills shut down, landowners are forced to rethink how (and when) they manage their timber. But when harvests get delayed or budgets get tight, it doesn’t just affect income—it directly impacts habitat quality for deer, turkey, and other wildlife. We dive into: Why a weak timber market slows down habitat improvement How delayed cuts affect bedding cover, browse, and overall diversity The real connection between timber management and wildlife health What landowners can do when the market isn’t in their favor Smart strategies to maintain or improve habitat despite economic pressure If you care about hunting, land ownership, or long-term habitat quality, this is a conversation you need to hear. Because when the timber market struggles… your land and wildlife feel it too. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every turkey hunter has been there… The gobbler that won’t leave his hens. The bird that goes silent after fly-down. The one that hangs up just out of range. In this episode, we break down real-world turkey hunting scenarios and talk through exactly how we’d handle each one—and why. Whether you’re hunting public land or managing your own property, these are the situations that make or break a season. Question is… what would you do? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this one we talk through the process of property evaluating hunting property to determine if it's the right one for you. There are many things that can make an otherwise great hunting tract undesirable. Things like road systems and easements to simple things like access to power and water can play a major role in the overall quality of a hunting tract. At the end of the day the property does need to have the ability to meet your goals and objectives as a hunter as well. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is special for a few reasons. We finally get to reveal what we have been working on for over 18 months now. Today we officially launch The Habitat Network. THN is a network of habitat professionals ranging from Wildlife Biologists, Registered Foresters, Certified Burn Managers, and Certified Drone Pilots. We sought to solve the problem that many southern landowners are facing when it comes to creating wildlife habitat. What should I do? Who should I call? How do I know who is trustworthy? We are giving our best effort to make those questions a thing of the past. We have big plans for the future and we hope to provide value for years to come. Check out the episode and then head over to the website for more info. www.thehabitatnetwork.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this one we discuss the block of time in between whitetail season and turkey season for predator management. We look at all the viable methods for controlling species like coyotes, bobcats, raccoons, and various nest predators. Why is this time of year important? It is probably a lot simpler than you think. Check it out! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Deer season is winding down for most hunters in the south. Does that mean scouting takes a back seat? Absolutely not! Scouting during this time of year can pay dividends for next season while also getting a jump start on turkey season. If you want to maximize your hunts it take advantage of the increased visibility this time of year. This was a good one! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices