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Bear Grease

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The Bear Grease Podcast with host Clay Newcomb delivers compelling storytelling through documentary-style episodes exploring the culture, traditions, and history of rural America. He’ll dive in deep with hunters, biologists, anthropologists, and hillbillies to learn about human nature and our ancient connection to the land. Bear Grease explores unique people, topics, and stories that reveal the incredible value of life lived close to the land. Part of the MeatEater Podcast Network.
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The Bear Grease Podcast with host Clay Newcomb delivers compelling storytelling through documentary-style episodes exploring the culture, traditions, and history of rural America. He’ll dive in deep with hunters, biologists, anthropologists, and hillbillies to learn about human nature and our ancient connection to the land. Bear Grease explores unique people, topics, and stories that reveal the incredible value of life lived close to the land. Part of the MeatEater Podcast Network.
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Episodes

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Some stories are just too good to only hear once, so we are going back to listen again to Clay Newcomb as he ask talks with New York Times best selling author Steve Rinella and Dr. Dan T. Carter, professor emeritus at the University of South Carolina about black-listed book “The Education of Little Tree.” The book, an alleged semi-autobiographical story about a Cherokee boy growing up in southern Appalachia, was written by Forest Carter, which was the false identity of famed white supremacist, Ku Klux Klan chapter founder and speech writer for Governor George Wallace, Dan Carter. In part 1, Clay reflects on the honest, insightful, and empathetic context of the book and explores the nuance and dissonance of what to do with with art in light of an artist’s beliefs.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

Connect with Clay and MeatEater

Clay on Instagram

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Some stories are just too good to only hear once, so we are going back to listen again to Clay Newcomb as he ask talks with New York Times best selling author Steve Rinella and Dr. Dan T. Carter, professor emeritus at the University of South Carolina about black-listed book “The Education of Little Tree.” The book, an alleged semi-autobiographical story about a Cherokee boy growing up in southern Appalachia, was written by Forest Carter, which was the false identity of famed white supremacist, Ku Klux Klan chapter founder and speech writer for Governor George Wallace, Dan Carter. In part 1, Clay reflects on the honest, insightful, and empathetic context of the book and explores the nuance and dissonance of what to do with with art in light of an artist’s beliefs.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

Connect with Clay and MeatEater

Clay on Instagram

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips

MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop Bear Grease Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Published 2026-09-08

Introducing: Gunfighters, with Bryan Burrough

2 min Transcript
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Author Bryan Burrough exhumes the gritty history of Old West gunfighters. From Billy the Kid to Wyatt Earp to John Wesley Hardin and dozens more, this collection of stories proves how very violent America's nineteenth century frontier actually was, and traces the blood-soaked history of the troubled men who made it that way. 

Follow now on Apple, Spotify, iHeart, and YouTube.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Author Bryan Burrough exhumes the gritty history of Old West gunfighters. From Billy the Kid to Wyatt Earp to John Wesley Hardin and dozens more, this collection of stories proves how very violent America's nineteenth century frontier actually was, and traces the blood-soaked history of the troubled men who made it that way. 

Follow now on Apple, Spotify, iHeart, and YouTube.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Published 2026-09-07

Ep. 499: Backwoods University - Bear Talk

50 min Transcript
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Maria Davidson is the North American large carnivore program coordinator for the Safari Club International Foundation. She has spent the vast majority of her career working with bears, including helping the restoration work with black bears in Louisiana, and now currently working with grizzlies in British Columbia. This conversation includes details of her past work, her current work in darting and collaring grizzlies, as well as discussing the several controversies surrounding bears and bear hunting.

Connect with Lake Pickle and MeatEater

Lake Pickle on Instagram

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and YouTube Clips

MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Maria Davidson is the North American large carnivore program coordinator for the Safari Club International Foundation. She has spent the vast majority of her career working with bears, including helping the restoration work with black bears in Louisiana, and now currently working with grizzlies in British Columbia. This conversation includes details of her past work, her current work in darting and collaring grizzlies, as well as discussing the several controversies surrounding bears and bear hunting.

Connect with Lake Pickle and MeatEater

Lake Pickle on Instagram

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and YouTube Clips

MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Published 2026-09-04

Ep. 927: Brent's Manitoba Moose Hunt | 12 in '26

78 min Transcript
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Join Brent Reaves and Josh Spielmaker in this Q&A interview to hear behind the scenes details from Brent's Manitoba Moose hunt that didn't make the film. Brent chronicles the trip from start to finish and shares some surprising insights gleaned from his experience. He also answers some viewer questions about the hunt.

Watch the film now on MeatEater's YouTube channel.

Presented by Can-Am: maker of the best ATVs, SxS, and Utility Vehicles www.can-am.brp.com

Connect with MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and YouTube Clips

Subscribe to MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

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Join Brent Reaves and Josh Spielmaker in this Q&A interview to hear behind the scenes details from Brent's Manitoba Moose hunt that didn't make the film. Brent chronicles the trip from start to finish and shares some surprising insights gleaned from his experience. He also answers some viewer questions about the hunt.

Watch the film now on MeatEater's YouTube channel.

Presented by Can-Am: maker of the best ATVs, SxS, and Utility Vehicles www.can-am.brp.com

Connect with MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and YouTube Clips

Subscribe to MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Brent's opening up the police files for this one. He's detailing a case that turned dangerous and quick reactions saved the day. You have the right to remain silent get a rare glimpse into Brent’s past that he seldom talks about.

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

Shop This Country Life Merch

Connect with Brent and MeatEater

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips

Subscribe to the MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop This Country Life Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Brent's opening up the police files for this one. He's detailing a case that turned dangerous and quick reactions saved the day. You have the right to remain silent get a rare glimpse into Brent’s past that he seldom talks about.

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

Shop This Country Life Merch

Connect with Brent and MeatEater

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips

Subscribe to the MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop This Country Life Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Published 2026-09-02

Ep. 497: Render - Lift Heavy Stuff and Sweat

75 min Transcript
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Host Clay Newcomb and Josh “Landbridge” Spielmaker are joined by Dr. Adam McCall and Dr. Jason Lofton in the Bear Grease Studio to continue the discussion on men’s health and tips on what it takes to maximize your longevity.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

Connect with Clay and MeatEater

Clay on Instagram

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips

MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop Bear Grease Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Host Clay Newcomb and Josh “Landbridge” Spielmaker are joined by Dr. Adam McCall and Dr. Jason Lofton in the Bear Grease Studio to continue the discussion on men’s health and tips on what it takes to maximize your longevity.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

Connect with Clay and MeatEater

Clay on Instagram

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips

MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop Bear Grease Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Welcome to the final and triumphant chapter of one of the best wildlife comeback stories in the history of North America. From 1200 individual deer in Mississippi in 1929 to over 1.5 million in 2026, this story is one you don't want to miss. Including, the story of a first ever deer hunt on public land that involved over 3300 hunters, a vehicles lined up for miles waiting to check deer in!

Connect with Lake Pickle and MeatEater

Lake Pickle on Instagram

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and YouTube Clips

MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Welcome to the final and triumphant chapter of one of the best wildlife comeback stories in the history of North America. From 1200 individual deer in Mississippi in 1929 to over 1.5 million in 2026, this story is one you don't want to miss. Including, the story of a first ever deer hunt on public land that involved over 3300 hunters, a vehicles lined up for miles waiting to check deer in!

Connect with Lake Pickle and MeatEater

Lake Pickle on Instagram

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and YouTube Clips

MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Brent’s writing his own rules again and making up an imaginary theme for this week’s show. This week’s theme is “It’s my show and I do what I want”. Regardless of his shenanigans the stories this week are great and we think you’ll really enjoy them. Sit back and relax. It’s time for MeatEater’s “This Country Life” podcast.

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

Shop This Country Life Merch

Connect with Brent and MeatEater

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips

Subscribe to the MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop This Country Life Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More description

Brent’s writing his own rules again and making up an imaginary theme for this week’s show. This week’s theme is “It’s my show and I do what I want”. Regardless of his shenanigans the stories this week are great and we think you’ll really enjoy them. Sit back and relax. It’s time for MeatEater’s “This Country Life” podcast.

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

Shop This Country Life Merch

Connect with Brent and MeatEater

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips

Subscribe to the MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop This Country Life Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Published 2026-08-26

Ep. 494: Your Most Important Gear - Your Body

60 min Transcript
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For men, taking care of your body can often slip down on the priority list, but your health is a savings account you can either make deposits or withdraws. On this episode, host Clay Newcomb is joined by Dr. Jason Lofton an Dr. Adam McCall as they discuss the most important things that we as men can do to remain healthy, fit, and provide maximum longevity of the bodies we have been given. It's the most important gear we have to be good husbands, fathers, friends, and outdoorsmen and it takes work to maintain. Tune in to hear helpful info, hot tips, and the truth about how to keep that bank account full and maintain the edge we need in a world that is trying to drag it down.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

Connect with Clay and MeatEater

Clay on Instagram

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips

MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop Bear Grease Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More description

For men, taking care of your body can often slip down on the priority list, but your health is a savings account you can either make deposits or withdraws. On this episode, host Clay Newcomb is joined by Dr. Jason Lofton an Dr. Adam McCall as they discuss the most important things that we as men can do to remain healthy, fit, and provide maximum longevity of the bodies we have been given. It's the most important gear we have to be good husbands, fathers, friends, and outdoorsmen and it takes work to maintain. Tune in to hear helpful info, hot tips, and the truth about how to keep that bank account full and maintain the edge we need in a world that is trying to drag it down.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

Connect with Clay and MeatEater

Clay on Instagram

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips

MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop Bear Grease Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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You never truly know the impact your words can have on another person. On the rare occasion when you do it can sometimes be overwhelming. Our words can carry weight and meaning especially for those searching for answers. Brent had a unique opportunity to meet some new friends recently in a casual setting where he learned firsthand how impactful those words can be. We think you're really gonna like this episode of MeatEater's "This Country Life" podcast.

Cast and Blast Outdoors:

https://www.instagram.com/castnblast__outdoors?igsh=MW9vY2lnaWt6NnliZg==

https://youtube.com/@cnb-outdoors?si=4RRWDbgc3vbQJ4-O

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

Shop This Country Life Merch

Connect with Brent and MeatEater

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips

Subscribe to the MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop This Country Life Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More description

You never truly know the impact your words can have on another person. On the rare occasion when you do it can sometimes be overwhelming. Our words can carry weight and meaning especially for those searching for answers. Brent had a unique opportunity to meet some new friends recently in a casual setting where he learned firsthand how impactful those words can be. We think you're really gonna like this episode of MeatEater's "This Country Life" podcast.

Cast and Blast Outdoors:

https://www.instagram.com/castnblast__outdoors?igsh=MW9vY2lnaWt6NnliZg==

https://youtube.com/@cnb-outdoors?si=4RRWDbgc3vbQJ4-O

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

Shop This Country Life Merch

Connect with Brent and MeatEater

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips

Subscribe to the MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop This Country Life Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Published 2026-08-19

Ep. 492: Render - Lightning in The Hot Seat

75 min Transcript
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Clay Newcomb along with Bear Newcomb and Josh “Landbridge” Spielmaker are joined by John Donovan, one of the guests featured on the “Struck by Lightning” episode of the Beat Grease Podcast. John elaborates on his experience being struck by lightning while descending from his tree stand just 9 months earlier. It’s an amazing story of a potentially catastrophic moment and how he was able to make a full recovery.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

Connect with Clay and MeatEater

Clay on Instagram

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips

MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop Bear Grease Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More description

Clay Newcomb along with Bear Newcomb and Josh “Landbridge” Spielmaker are joined by John Donovan, one of the guests featured on the “Struck by Lightning” episode of the Beat Grease Podcast. John elaborates on his experience being struck by lightning while descending from his tree stand just 9 months earlier. It’s an amazing story of a potentially catastrophic moment and how he was able to make a full recovery.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

Connect with Clay and MeatEater

Clay on Instagram

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips

MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop Bear Grease Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Published 2026-08-17

Ep. 491: Backwoods University - Mississippi Deer History

31 min Transcript
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What would you think of a whitetail deer herd that jumped from 1200 to over 1.5 million in less than 100 years time? That is exactly what happened in the state of Mississippi. We are joined by Mississippi Deer Program Coordinator, William McKinley who knows all the wild tales that make up this incredible wildlife conservation story.

Connect with Lake Pickle and MeatEater

Lake Pickle on Instagram

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and YouTube Clips

MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More description

What would you think of a whitetail deer herd that jumped from 1200 to over 1.5 million in less than 100 years time? That is exactly what happened in the state of Mississippi. We are joined by Mississippi Deer Program Coordinator, William McKinley who knows all the wild tales that make up this incredible wildlife conservation story.

Connect with Lake Pickle and MeatEater

Lake Pickle on Instagram

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and YouTube Clips

MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Published 2026-08-14

Ep. 490: This Country Life - A Coke or A Comb

20 min Transcript
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Brent is telling two stories his father told him when he was a little boy. They made an impression on him even at an early age. As he's grown older the meaning of the stories remains the same but the reason they're meaningful is easier to see through the eyes of an adult. Brent is also offering up a little first hand advice that could pay huge dividends for your family later on. It's time for MeatEater's "This Country Life" podcast.

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

Shop This Country Life Merch

Connect with Brent and MeatEater

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips

Subscribe to the MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop This Country Life Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More description

Brent is telling two stories his father told him when he was a little boy. They made an impression on him even at an early age. As he's grown older the meaning of the stories remains the same but the reason they're meaningful is easier to see through the eyes of an adult. Brent is also offering up a little first hand advice that could pay huge dividends for your family later on. It's time for MeatEater's "This Country Life" podcast.

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

Shop This Country Life Merch

Connect with Brent and MeatEater

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips

Subscribe to the MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop This Country Life Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Published 2026-08-12

Ep. 489: Struck by Lightning

51 min Transcript
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Clay Newcomb explores the science, mystery, and raw power of lightning through the firsthand stories of John Donovan, a bear hunter who was struck while sitting in a tree stand, and Spence Spencer, a farmer who was hit while working in his chicken pasture. Both survived, but neither walked away unchanged.

Clay also sits down with weather analyst Joshua Wisel of weather225.com to nerd out on what actually happens when lightning forms, why it can strike miles from a storm, why trees and tall objects are so dangerous, and which common lightning myths are completely wrong.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

Connect with Clay and MeatEater

Clay on Instagram

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips

MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop Bear Grease Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More description

Clay Newcomb explores the science, mystery, and raw power of lightning through the firsthand stories of John Donovan, a bear hunter who was struck while sitting in a tree stand, and Spence Spencer, a farmer who was hit while working in his chicken pasture. Both survived, but neither walked away unchanged.

Clay also sits down with weather analyst Joshua Wisel of weather225.com to nerd out on what actually happens when lightning forms, why it can strike miles from a storm, why trees and tall objects are so dangerous, and which common lightning myths are completely wrong.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

Connect with Clay and MeatEater

Clay on Instagram

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips

MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop Bear Grease Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Published 2026-08-07

Ep. 488: This Country Life - Coon Claw Jake and Philip Worm

28 min Transcript
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Brent’s got a couple survival stories this week. Not so much as in life and death survival, but situational. One's from a young teen who had a prolonged stay beyond a planned trip. The other is from an adult who adapted to take care of his family. You’re gonna like this one for sure. It’s time for MeatEater’s This Country Life podcast.

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

Shop This Country Life Merch

Connect with Brent and MeatEater

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips

Subscribe to the MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop This Country Life Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More description

Brent’s got a couple survival stories this week. Not so much as in life and death survival, but situational. One's from a young teen who had a prolonged stay beyond a planned trip. The other is from an adult who adapted to take care of his family. You’re gonna like this one for sure. It’s time for MeatEater’s This Country Life podcast.

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

Shop This Country Life Merch

Connect with Brent and MeatEater

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips

Subscribe to the MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop This Country Life Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Published 2026-08-05

Ep. 487: Render - Civil War Send Off: Snakes and Surrender

78 min Transcript
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It's the end of Civil War Summer, and things close out in classic Bear Grease fashion as host Clay Newcomb along with Bear Newcomb and Josh "Landbridge" Spielmaker talk history with live venomous snakes in the same room. Returning guest and "Advanced Snake Enthusiast" Brad Birchfield joins in as the crew breaks down the real story behind Robert E. Lee's surrender at Appomattox Court House which, it turns out, wasn't actually a courthouse. Along the way, stories of a rattlesnake that survived 26 months without eating, some wild tales from the Amazon rainforest, and much more.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

Connect with Clay and MeatEater

Clay on Instagram

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips

MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop Bear Grease Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More description

It's the end of Civil War Summer, and things close out in classic Bear Grease fashion as host Clay Newcomb along with Bear Newcomb and Josh "Landbridge" Spielmaker talk history with live venomous snakes in the same room. Returning guest and "Advanced Snake Enthusiast" Brad Birchfield joins in as the crew breaks down the real story behind Robert E. Lee's surrender at Appomattox Court House which, it turns out, wasn't actually a courthouse. Along the way, stories of a rattlesnake that survived 26 months without eating, some wild tales from the Amazon rainforest, and much more.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

Connect with Clay and MeatEater

Clay on Instagram

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips

MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop Bear Grease Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Published 2026-08-04

Ep. 912: Clay’s Ozark Bear Camp | 12 in '26

75 min Transcript
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Clay gives behind the scenes details and answers com viewer questions about his annual bear camp that is featured in the Meateater “12 in ‘26” film series. It’s a film about tradition, camaraderie, tough situations, and the love of the hunt.  Hear the details and what happened that you didn’t see in the film.

Watch the film now on MeatEater's YouTube channel.

Presented by Can-Am: maker of the best ATVs, SxS, and Utility Vehicles www.can-am.brp.com

Connect with MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and YouTube Clips

Subscribe to MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More description

Clay gives behind the scenes details and answers com viewer questions about his annual bear camp that is featured in the Meateater “12 in ‘26” film series. It’s a film about tradition, camaraderie, tough situations, and the love of the hunt.  Hear the details and what happened that you didn’t see in the film.

Watch the film now on MeatEater's YouTube channel.

Presented by Can-Am: maker of the best ATVs, SxS, and Utility Vehicles www.can-am.brp.com

Connect with MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and YouTube Clips

Subscribe to MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Published 2026-08-03

Ep. 486: Backwoods University - A New Hunting Season

34 min Transcript
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It's not every day that we see brand new hunting season get put into existence. This coming October the state of Louisiana will be having it's first ever hunting season for black bellied whistling ducks. It's an exciting time for hunters, but there's a much bigger story at play here. The black bellied whistling duck is historically a tropical species that occupied mostly central and south America. What are the implications of it expanding it's range into much of the southern and eastern U.S? Also, can a hunting season potentially be the much needed management tool that the state of Louisiana has been looking for?

Connect with Lake Pickle and MeatEater

Lake Pickle on Instagram

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and YouTube Clips

MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More description

It's not every day that we see brand new hunting season get put into existence. This coming October the state of Louisiana will be having it's first ever hunting season for black bellied whistling ducks. It's an exciting time for hunters, but there's a much bigger story at play here. The black bellied whistling duck is historically a tropical species that occupied mostly central and south America. What are the implications of it expanding it's range into much of the southern and eastern U.S? Also, can a hunting season potentially be the much needed management tool that the state of Louisiana has been looking for?

Connect with Lake Pickle and MeatEater

Lake Pickle on Instagram

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and YouTube Clips

MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Brent's heading to Louisiana to fish the Ouachita River with Bradley Smith, a lifelong outdoorsman who's keeping the old ways alive. From hoop nets to bank poles baited for flathead catfish, the trip becomes more than a night on the river. Included is a lesson on tradition and the details that separate a likely spot from the right one. We're talking family, friendship, and the importance of passing down tradition before they disappear.

God's Country Hunting and Fishing YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEP0Z4BjEpgIn5uVbwRZZRA

Opelousas Bank Poles: https://opelousasbankpoles.com/

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

Shop This Country Life Merch

Connect with Brent and MeatEater

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips

Subscribe to the MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop This Country Life Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More description

Brent's heading to Louisiana to fish the Ouachita River with Bradley Smith, a lifelong outdoorsman who's keeping the old ways alive. From hoop nets to bank poles baited for flathead catfish, the trip becomes more than a night on the river. Included is a lesson on tradition and the details that separate a likely spot from the right one. We're talking family, friendship, and the importance of passing down tradition before they disappear.

God's Country Hunting and Fishing YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEP0Z4BjEpgIn5uVbwRZZRA

Opelousas Bank Poles: https://opelousasbankpoles.com/

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Published 2026-07-29

Ep. 484: Civil War - Part 6: Unconditional Surrender

57 min Transcript
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In this final chapter of our Civil War series, we once again hear from historians J.D. Huitt, Dr. Brooks Blevins, and Dr. Louis Gallo to trace the final eighteen months of the conflict—from Gettysburg and Vicksburg to Grant's relentless Overland Campaign and Robert E. Lee's surrender at Appomattox Court House.

Along the way, host Clay Newcomb examines how Ulysses S. Grant transformed modern warfare through his philosophy of total war, why Abraham Lincoln came to trust him above every other Union general, and how Grant's quiet humility shaped one of the most remarkable victories in American history. We also explore the humanity displayed at Appomattox, the myths surrounding the surrender, and why historians still debate the reasons the Confederacy ultimately failed.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

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In this final chapter of our Civil War series, we once again hear from historians J.D. Huitt, Dr. Brooks Blevins, and Dr. Louis Gallo to trace the final eighteen months of the conflict—from Gettysburg and Vicksburg to Grant's relentless Overland Campaign and Robert E. Lee's surrender at Appomattox Court House.

Along the way, host Clay Newcomb examines how Ulysses S. Grant transformed modern warfare through his philosophy of total war, why Abraham Lincoln came to trust him above every other Union general, and how Grant's quiet humility shaped one of the most remarkable victories in American history. We also explore the humanity displayed at Appomattox, the myths surrounding the surrender, and why historians still debate the reasons the Confederacy ultimately failed.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

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Published 2026-07-24

Ep. 483: This Country Life - First the Bear, Then the Bite

16 min Transcript
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Brent’s still in the wilderness of northern Saskatchewan, where a filled bear tag opens up the door for an unforgettable fishing adventure. Look out! This country boy has a fly rod and he’s not afraid to use it. Bring your safety glasses, we’re going fishing on MeatEater’s “This Country Life” podcast.

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Brent’s still in the wilderness of northern Saskatchewan, where a filled bear tag opens up the door for an unforgettable fishing adventure. Look out! This country boy has a fly rod and he’s not afraid to use it. Bring your safety glasses, we’re going fishing on MeatEater’s “This Country Life” podcast.

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

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Published 2026-07-22

Ep. 482: Render - Lost Dogs, Lost Cause, and U.S. Grant

65 min Transcript
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Clay Newcomb and Render Crew members Dr. Misty Newcomb, Brent Reaves, Bear Newcomb, and Josh "Landbridge" Spielmaker dig into latest episode of the Civil War Summer on Ulysses S. Grant. They unpack the surprising life of a man who went from repeated failure to becoming the Union's most important general, discussing Grant's struggles with alcohol, remarkable horsemanship, complicated family ties to slavery, and the leadership qualities that ultimately changed the course of American history.

Along the way, the conversation wanders—as it always does—from Clay's disastrous attempt to turn a young hound loose on a deer, to the launch of the new Bear Grease bib overalls, branding python boots, and why "graceful form in the saddle" may be the highest compliment a man could receive.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

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Clay Newcomb and Render Crew members Dr. Misty Newcomb, Brent Reaves, Bear Newcomb, and Josh "Landbridge" Spielmaker dig into latest episode of the Civil War Summer on Ulysses S. Grant. They unpack the surprising life of a man who went from repeated failure to becoming the Union's most important general, discussing Grant's struggles with alcohol, remarkable horsemanship, complicated family ties to slavery, and the leadership qualities that ultimately changed the course of American history.

Along the way, the conversation wanders—as it always does—from Clay's disastrous attempt to turn a young hound loose on a deer, to the launch of the new Bear Grease bib overalls, branding python boots, and why "graceful form in the saddle" may be the highest compliment a man could receive.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

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Published 2026-07-20

Ep. 481: Backwoods University - Farming Crawfish

32 min Transcript
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Humans eating crawfish is nothing new. In fact, in North America alone it's been going on for several thousands of years. However, the craft of deliberately farming crawfish is relatively new in the grand scheme of things. Jason Roberts, a Mississippi native, walks us through the story and process of starting up his crawfish farm. What all went into it, how he figured it out, what type of crawfish species he targets, and the unexpected harmony found between crawfish farming and waterfowl land management.

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Humans eating crawfish is nothing new. In fact, in North America alone it's been going on for several thousands of years. However, the craft of deliberately farming crawfish is relatively new in the grand scheme of things. Jason Roberts, a Mississippi native, walks us through the story and process of starting up his crawfish farm. What all went into it, how he figured it out, what type of crawfish species he targets, and the unexpected harmony found between crawfish farming and waterfowl land management.

Connect with Lake Pickle and MeatEater

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The week long wait is over! Brent is finally getting to the meat he left on the bone from last week's episode on his Saskatchewan black bear hunt. It was a grand adventure for him and he took away lessons from that he didn't see coming. It's time for the second part of Brent's trip north of the border, but whether it will be the final installment is yet to be determined, you're just gonna have to give it a listen.

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The week long wait is over! Brent is finally getting to the meat he left on the bone from last week's episode on his Saskatchewan black bear hunt. It was a grand adventure for him and he took away lessons from that he didn't see coming. It's time for the second part of Brent's trip north of the border, but whether it will be the final installment is yet to be determined, you're just gonna have to give it a listen.

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

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Continuing on with Bear Grease's Civil War Summer series, Clay Newcomb travels to the Ulysses S. Grant Presidential Library in Starkville, Mississippi, to uncover the story of the Union general who may be the most misunderstood figure of the war. Alongside Grant historian Dr. Louis Gallo, Clay traces Grant's unlikely journey from a quiet Ohio farm boy and gifted horseman to a failed farmer, struggling businessman, and former army officer battling personal struggles.

The conversation explores Grant's complicated relationship with slavery, his marriage into a slaveholding Missouri family, his years of financial hardship, and the character traits that would eventually make him Lincoln's indispensable commander. Along the way, Clay discusses the Lost Cause ideology, the myths that shaped Grant's reputation, and the remarkable transformation of a man who went from selling firewood on the streets to leading the Union Army and becoming President of the United States.

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Continuing on with Bear Grease's Civil War Summer series, Clay Newcomb travels to the Ulysses S. Grant Presidential Library in Starkville, Mississippi, to uncover the story of the Union general who may be the most misunderstood figure of the war. Alongside Grant historian Dr. Louis Gallo, Clay traces Grant's unlikely journey from a quiet Ohio farm boy and gifted horseman to a failed farmer, struggling businessman, and former army officer battling personal struggles.

The conversation explores Grant's complicated relationship with slavery, his marriage into a slaveholding Missouri family, his years of financial hardship, and the character traits that would eventually make him Lincoln's indispensable commander. Along the way, Clay discusses the Lost Cause ideology, the myths that shaped Grant's reputation, and the remarkable transformation of a man who went from selling firewood on the streets to leading the Union Army and becoming President of the United States.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

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Flying is always stressful for Brent. He says he likes being in different and remote places, he just doesn't always enjoy the process of getting there. A fear of flying isn't the issue; trusting his possessions to strangers is. You're allowed to carry backpack with a shaving kit and extra change of clothes on the plane with you, but you can't carry a bow and arrow and store it in an overhead bin. If he could, though, he wouldn't have anything to talk about this week. Get your boarding pass and settle in at the gate. It's time for MeatEater's "This Country Life" podcast.

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Flying is always stressful for Brent. He says he likes being in different and remote places, he just doesn't always enjoy the process of getting there. A fear of flying isn't the issue; trusting his possessions to strangers is. You're allowed to carry backpack with a shaving kit and extra change of clothes on the plane with you, but you can't carry a bow and arrow and store it in an overhead bin. If he could, though, he wouldn't have anything to talk about this week. Get your boarding pass and settle in at the gate. It's time for MeatEater's "This Country Life" podcast.

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

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As Civil War Summer continues, host Clay Newcomb along with Dr. Misty Newcomb and Josh "Landbridge" Spielmaker are joined by guests former history teacher Ben Lagrone and host of The End of History podcast J.B. Shreve as they swap stories about Osage orange trees, neighborhood mailbox projects, , bulldozers, and the simple satisfaction of moving dirt. The group then turns their attention to the Emancipation Proclamation, Abraham Lincoln's leadership, family Civil War connections, and the lasting impact of America's defining conflict.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

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As Civil War Summer continues, host Clay Newcomb along with Dr. Misty Newcomb and Josh "Landbridge" Spielmaker are joined by guests former history teacher Ben Lagrone and host of The End of History podcast J.B. Shreve as they swap stories about Osage orange trees, neighborhood mailbox projects, , bulldozers, and the simple satisfaction of moving dirt. The group then turns their attention to the Emancipation Proclamation, Abraham Lincoln's leadership, family Civil War connections, and the lasting impact of America's defining conflict.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

Connect with Clay and MeatEater

Clay on Instagram

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Published 2026-07-06

Ep. 476: Backwoods University - Catching Crawfish

31 min Transcript
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Without a doubt, crawfish, or crayfish, are the most well-known, and tastiest crustacean in all of North America- but how much do we really know about them? Where did they come from? How many of them are there? What role do they play in the ecosystem? We’ll all learn by the end of this that these tiny shellfish have more to offer than a what comes out of a boiling pot.

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Without a doubt, crawfish, or crayfish, are the most well-known, and tastiest crustacean in all of North America- but how much do we really know about them? Where did they come from? How many of them are there? What role do they play in the ecosystem? We’ll all learn by the end of this that these tiny shellfish have more to offer than a what comes out of a boiling pot.

Connect with Lake Pickle and MeatEater

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Published 2026-07-03

Ep. 475: This Country Life - Cub Scouts and Chicken Farmers

21 min Transcript
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This week Brent's sharing two stories where the only thing they have in common is that he's telling them in English. Well, his version of English anyway. The first is from a father son scouting trip with his son, Hunter, when Hunter was six. The follow up tale is from one his father shared with him about a man who was difficult to work with back in the 1980s. While he may have had a reason to be difficult, he didn't have an excuse for it. How that worked out is a good lesson for us all. Pull up a chair, it's time for MeatEater's "This Country Life" podcast.

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

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This week Brent's sharing two stories where the only thing they have in common is that he's telling them in English. Well, his version of English anyway. The first is from a father son scouting trip with his son, Hunter, when Hunter was six. The follow up tale is from one his father shared with him about a man who was difficult to work with back in the 1980s. While he may have had a reason to be difficult, he didn't have an excuse for it. How that worked out is a good lesson for us all. Pull up a chair, it's time for MeatEater's "This Country Life" podcast.

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

Shop This Country Life Merch

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In Part 4 of Bear Grease's Civil War Summer series, Clay Newcomb continues the conversation with JD Huitt and sits down with historian Dr. Brooks Blevins to examine one of the most consequential decisions of the war: Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. Following the bloodshed at Antietam—the single deadliest day in American history—the Union president made a bold political, military, and moral gamble that transformed the conflict forever.

Together, they unpack why the proclamation was far more than a declaration of freedom and explore how Lincoln used emancipation as a diplomatic weapon to keep Britain and France out of the war, weaken the Confederate labor force, recruit Black soldiers, and redefine the Union cause. Along the way, they examine the staggering casualties of Civil War combat, the strategic failures of Union generals, and the growing realization that the war would not end in compromise but in total transformation.

The Civil War had begun as a fight to preserve the Union. By the end of 1862, it had become something much bigger.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

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More description

In Part 4 of Bear Grease's Civil War Summer series, Clay Newcomb continues the conversation with JD Huitt and sits down with historian Dr. Brooks Blevins to examine one of the most consequential decisions of the war: Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. Following the bloodshed at Antietam—the single deadliest day in American history—the Union president made a bold political, military, and moral gamble that transformed the conflict forever.

Together, they unpack why the proclamation was far more than a declaration of freedom and explore how Lincoln used emancipation as a diplomatic weapon to keep Britain and France out of the war, weaken the Confederate labor force, recruit Black soldiers, and redefine the Union cause. Along the way, they examine the staggering casualties of Civil War combat, the strategic failures of Union generals, and the growing realization that the war would not end in compromise but in total transformation.

The Civil War had begun as a fight to preserve the Union. By the end of 1862, it had become something much bigger.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

Connect with Clay and MeatEater

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In this bonus drop of Backwoods University, we have the opportunity to hear from a man named Joshua Lawes, who spent several years in the wild lands of Africa, working in antipoaching teams. As you can imagine, he has some pretty wild and fascinating tales, along with some insight on how conservation works in Africa and how it dippers for North America.

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In this bonus drop of Backwoods University, we have the opportunity to hear from a man named Joshua Lawes, who spent several years in the wild lands of Africa, working in antipoaching teams. As you can imagine, he has some pretty wild and fascinating tales, along with some insight on how conservation works in Africa and how it dippers for North America.

Connect with Lake Pickle and MeatEater

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Whether you call them lessons or just simple observations, Brent thinks there’s no better example of good ones than those presented in “Where the bred Fern Grows”. Come along as he points out a few of the ones that have been the most meaningful to him. It’s time for MeatEater’s “This Country Life” podcast.

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

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Whether you call them lessons or just simple observations, Brent thinks there’s no better example of good ones than those presented in “Where the bred Fern Grows”. Come along as he points out a few of the ones that have been the most meaningful to him. It’s time for MeatEater’s “This Country Life” podcast.

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

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Published 2026-06-25

Ep. 471: Trout Grease - A Hostile Takeover

25 min Transcript
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Bear Newcomb and Josh “Landbridge” Spielmaker stage a Bear Grease hostile takeover and head to the river to do some fly fishing without Clay Newcomb. The two talk fly fishing, Bear’s river rafting abandonment, building Bear Grease YouTube Channel content, mule training, and the value of getting outside and simply “moseying” around.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

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Bear Newcomb and Josh “Landbridge” Spielmaker stage a Bear Grease hostile takeover and head to the river to do some fly fishing without Clay Newcomb. The two talk fly fishing, Bear’s river rafting abandonment, building Bear Grease YouTube Channel content, mule training, and the value of getting outside and simply “moseying” around.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

Connect with Clay and MeatEater

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Host Clay Newcomb along with Render crew members Dr. Misty Newcomb, Bear Newcomb and Josh "Landbridge" Spielmaker unpack Part 3 of the Civil War series with special guest Dr. Brooks Blevins. The conversation explores why people fought in the Civil War, how different generations have remembered the conflict, and what it means to discover your own family's connection to history.

Along the way, the crew discusses Native American involvement in the war, the evolution of Civil War memory, family legacy, and the challenge of understanding the past without oversimplifying it.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

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Host Clay Newcomb along with Render crew members Dr. Misty Newcomb, Bear Newcomb and Josh "Landbridge" Spielmaker unpack Part 3 of the Civil War series with special guest Dr. Brooks Blevins. The conversation explores why people fought in the Civil War, how different generations have remembered the conflict, and what it means to discover your own family's connection to history.

Along the way, the crew discusses Native American involvement in the war, the evolution of Civil War memory, family legacy, and the challenge of understanding the past without oversimplifying it.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

Connect with Clay and MeatEater

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In our final chapter of our series with Antonin Scalia, we will be taking a close look at why this man was so loved and respected by everyone that knew- including people that completely disagreed with him. On top of that, we'll learn how hunting, wild game, and the outdoors played a critical role in it.

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In our final chapter of our series with Antonin Scalia, we will be taking a close look at why this man was so loved and respected by everyone that knew- including people that completely disagreed with him. On top of that, we'll learn how hunting, wild game, and the outdoors played a critical role in it.

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Published 2026-06-19

Ep. 468: This Country Life - Landmarks Remembered

24 min Transcript
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Settle in for a guided trip to iconic landmarks from Brent’s life. Bridges, trees, and even old homesteads serve as places of importance. Recognition of them sometimes comes after they’re gone but their importance remains the same. As a bonus, Brent’s sharing a couple recordings of his father that are his and fan favorites. 

National Champion Loblolly Pin: https://youtu.be/gEihlGtoYFQ?is=VYT2y_6vltaVyGJL

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

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Settle in for a guided trip to iconic landmarks from Brent’s life. Bridges, trees, and even old homesteads serve as places of importance. Recognition of them sometimes comes after they’re gone but their importance remains the same. As a bonus, Brent’s sharing a couple recordings of his father that are his and fan favorites. 

National Champion Loblolly Pin: https://youtu.be/gEihlGtoYFQ?is=VYT2y_6vltaVyGJL

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

Shop This Country Life Merch

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Host Clay Newcomb continues his personal exploration of the Civil War with historian J.D. Huitt of The History Underground YouTube channel. J.D. surprises Clay with historical documentation of his own third-great-grandfather, Thomas Newcomb, a Confederate soldier from southwest Arkansas. As they continue through the history of the war, Clay attempts to answer one of the most challenging questions in American history: Why did ordinary people choose to fight?

The search for answers leads Clay and J.D. to the Fayetteville National Cemetery and the graves of Union soldiers who were scalped after the Battle of Pea Ridge. From there, they dive into the overlooked story of Native Americans in the Civil War, exploring why thousands of Cherokee, Choctaw, Chickasaw, Creek, and Seminole soldiers sided with the Confederacy and the remarkable story of Stand Watie, the last Confederate general to surrender.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

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Host Clay Newcomb continues his personal exploration of the Civil War with historian J.D. Huitt of The History Underground YouTube channel. J.D. surprises Clay with historical documentation of his own third-great-grandfather, Thomas Newcomb, a Confederate soldier from southwest Arkansas. As they continue through the history of the war, Clay attempts to answer one of the most challenging questions in American history: Why did ordinary people choose to fight?

The search for answers leads Clay and J.D. to the Fayetteville National Cemetery and the graves of Union soldiers who were scalped after the Battle of Pea Ridge. From there, they dive into the overlooked story of Native Americans in the Civil War, exploring why thousands of Cherokee, Choctaw, Chickasaw, Creek, and Seminole soldiers sided with the Confederacy and the remarkable story of Stand Watie, the last Confederate general to surrender.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

Connect with Clay and MeatEater

Clay on Instagram

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Published 2026-06-12

Ep. 466: This Country Life - Bait It's What's For Dinner

19 min Transcript
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Join us for an eclectic group of facts and memories about fishing bait from Brent's storied upbringing. You'll hear how bait that was purposed for a fish's mouth ended up in his. He's also sharing an impromptu lesson he used to calm his oldest daughter's fear of insects. You may want to try it yourself, but we doubt it. All that and more on this week's episode of "This Country Life" podcast.

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Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

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Join us for an eclectic group of facts and memories about fishing bait from Brent's storied upbringing. You'll hear how bait that was purposed for a fish's mouth ended up in his. He's also sharing an impromptu lesson he used to calm his oldest daughter's fear of insects. You may want to try it yourself, but we doubt it. All that and more on this week's episode of "This Country Life" podcast.

Take the listener survey: themeateater.com/grease

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

Shop This Country Life Merch

Connect with Brent and MeatEater

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Published 2026-06-10

Ep. 465: Render - Mules, Bears, and the Civil War

75 min Transcript
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Host Clay Newcomb and Render regulars Bear Newcomb, Dr. Misty Newcomb, and Josh "Landbridge" Spielmaker are joined by Michael Rosamond of Sun Spot Lights and retired Missouri game warden and Renaissance man Kyle Carrol as they continue their Civil War discussion by examining the lives of Abraham Lincoln and Robert E. Lee.

The conversation also highlights just how recent Civil War history really is, featuring a firsthand family connection of Michael Rosamond to a woman whose mother was born into slavery.

But that's not all! Hear about Clay's runaway mules, exciting details of Bear's recent Alaskan bear hunt, and foreshadowing of Clay's upcoming book American Bear.

Fill out our listener survey for a chance to win $500 gift card to the MeatEater Store: themeateater.com/grease

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

Connect with Clay and MeatEater

Clay on Instagram

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Host Clay Newcomb and Render regulars Bear Newcomb, Dr. Misty Newcomb, and Josh "Landbridge" Spielmaker are joined by Michael Rosamond of Sun Spot Lights and retired Missouri game warden and Renaissance man Kyle Carrol as they continue their Civil War discussion by examining the lives of Abraham Lincoln and Robert E. Lee.

The conversation also highlights just how recent Civil War history really is, featuring a firsthand family connection of Michael Rosamond to a woman whose mother was born into slavery.

But that's not all! Hear about Clay's runaway mules, exciting details of Bear's recent Alaskan bear hunt, and foreshadowing of Clay's upcoming book American Bear.

Fill out our listener survey for a chance to win $500 gift card to the MeatEater Store: themeateater.com/grease

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

Connect with Clay and MeatEater

Clay on Instagram

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Shop Bear Grease Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Published 2026-06-08

Ep. 464: Backwoods University - Justice Scalia

25 min Transcript
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Antonin Scalia, whether you agreed or disagreed with him, was inarguably one of the most influential Americans in modern history due to his position as supreme court Justice for almost 30 years. However, in this part 1 of this series we will get the rare opportunity to see this man in way you may have never seen him before. Come along as we journey down to the place where Scalia first found his love for the outdoors and hunting, and see how that same love became used a connective tissue for even the most distant of ideologies.

Fill out our listener survey for a chance to win $500 gift card to the MeatEater Store: themeateater.com/grease

Connect with Lake Pickle and MeatEater

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Antonin Scalia, whether you agreed or disagreed with him, was inarguably one of the most influential Americans in modern history due to his position as supreme court Justice for almost 30 years. However, in this part 1 of this series we will get the rare opportunity to see this man in way you may have never seen him before. Come along as we journey down to the place where Scalia first found his love for the outdoors and hunting, and see how that same love became used a connective tissue for even the most distant of ideologies.

Fill out our listener survey for a chance to win $500 gift card to the MeatEater Store: themeateater.com/grease

Connect with Lake Pickle and MeatEater

Lake Pickle on Instagram

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and YouTube Clips

MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Summer is just heating up and Brent's talking about duck hunting. Actually he attended an event in the Rice and Duck Capitol of the World in Stuttgart, Arkansas. He's gonna share how that event, "The Callapalooza", was started and detail his involvement. He's also sharing a listener story about an old tractor that'll warm your heart. All that and more on this week's "This Country Life" podcast.

Take the listener survey: themeateater.com/grease

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

Shop This Country Life Merch

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Summer is just heating up and Brent's talking about duck hunting. Actually he attended an event in the Rice and Duck Capitol of the World in Stuttgart, Arkansas. He's gonna share how that event, "The Callapalooza", was started and detail his involvement. He's also sharing a listener story about an old tractor that'll warm your heart. All that and more on this week's "This Country Life" podcast.

Take the listener survey: themeateater.com/grease

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

Shop This Country Life Merch

Connect with Brent and MeatEater

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Subscribe to the MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

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In Part 2 of Bear Grease's Civil War series, host Clay Newcomb examines the rise of Abraham Lincoln, the secession of the Southern states, and the complicated legacy of Robert E. Lee. Alongside historian J.D. Hewitt of The History Underground, Clay explores the ideas, personalities, and decisions that pushed the nation toward its bloodiest conflict, and discovers that history's heroes and villains are often far more complicated than we remember.

Fill out our listener survey for a chance to win $500 gift card to the MeatEater Store: themeateater.com/grease

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

Connect with Clay and MeatEater

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In Part 2 of Bear Grease's Civil War series, host Clay Newcomb examines the rise of Abraham Lincoln, the secession of the Southern states, and the complicated legacy of Robert E. Lee. Alongside historian J.D. Hewitt of The History Underground, Clay explores the ideas, personalities, and decisions that pushed the nation toward its bloodiest conflict, and discovers that history's heroes and villains are often far more complicated than we remember.

Fill out our listener survey for a chance to win $500 gift card to the MeatEater Store: themeateater.com/grease

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

Connect with Clay and MeatEater

Clay on Instagram

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips

MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop Bear Grease Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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With one last trip, Brent's 2026 Turkey Season is over. In this episode, he relates how a statement he made two years ago in New York City has come back around and will more than likely prove him wrong. Then it's an Arkansas wrap up with some sneaky gobblers before ending the season in Pennsylvania for Brent's first hunt in the Keystone State with his friends at Case Knives. We know you'll enjoy this one.

George Lilikakis Turkey Calls on Instagram: @brooklyn_bones

Turkeys for Tomorrow Flock on Instagram: @tft_gothamspurs 

Butterfly Research: www.monarch.org

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

Shop This Country Life Merch

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With one last trip, Brent's 2026 Turkey Season is over. In this episode, he relates how a statement he made two years ago in New York City has come back around and will more than likely prove him wrong. Then it's an Arkansas wrap up with some sneaky gobblers before ending the season in Pennsylvania for Brent's first hunt in the Keystone State with his friends at Case Knives. We know you'll enjoy this one.

George Lilikakis Turkey Calls on Instagram: @brooklyn_bones

Turkeys for Tomorrow Flock on Instagram: @tft_gothamspurs 

Butterfly Research: www.monarch.org

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

Shop This Country Life Merch

Connect with Brent and MeatEater

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Published 2026-05-27

Ep. 460: Render - Cold Cases and Civil War

74 min Transcript
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Jordan Sillars joins host Clay Newcomb alongside Render crew members Dr. Misty Newcomb, Kristie Spielmaker, and Josh “Landbridge” Spielmaker for a behind-the-scenes look at the making of his hit Blood Trails true crime podcast. Jordan shares stories from the field, lessons learned during production, and advice on the basics of how to avoid foul play in the wilderness.

The conversation also turns to Bear Grease episode 457, Civil War Part 1: The Seeds of War, as the crew reflects on the moments, perspectives, and historical insights that challenged them or left a lasting impact.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

Connect with Clay and MeatEater

Clay on Instagram

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MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop Bear Grease Merch

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More description

Jordan Sillars joins host Clay Newcomb alongside Render crew members Dr. Misty Newcomb, Kristie Spielmaker, and Josh “Landbridge” Spielmaker for a behind-the-scenes look at the making of his hit Blood Trails true crime podcast. Jordan shares stories from the field, lessons learned during production, and advice on the basics of how to avoid foul play in the wilderness.

The conversation also turns to Bear Grease episode 457, Civil War Part 1: The Seeds of War, as the crew reflects on the moments, perspectives, and historical insights that challenged them or left a lasting impact.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

Connect with Clay and MeatEater

Clay on Instagram

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MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop Bear Grease Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Published 2026-05-25

Ep. 459: Backwoods University - Troops and Wildlife

25 min Transcript
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Seeing as this episode releases on Memorial Day, Lake thought it would only be fitting to use it as opportunity to honor our the men and women who served the United States armed forces. This week, we will hear four different stories where wildlife conservation and the U.S military just so happened to overlap in some pretty incredible ways.

Connect with Lake Pickle and MeatEater

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Seeing as this episode releases on Memorial Day, Lake thought it would only be fitting to use it as opportunity to honor our the men and women who served the United States armed forces. This week, we will hear four different stories where wildlife conservation and the U.S military just so happened to overlap in some pretty incredible ways.

Connect with Lake Pickle and MeatEater

Lake Pickle on Instagram

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MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Published 2026-05-22

Ep. 458: This Country Life - The Screen Door

22 min Transcript
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It’s hard to imagine an old house without a screen door. And even though they may mostly be a thing of the past, they still hold a significant place in Brent’s memories. A listener’s experience is outlined through his knocking on doors asking for hunting permission. Then Brent shares some observations that detail how the thought of a screen door or even a similar sound of one closing can bring on a flood of memories. 

Ryan's Website: https://www.rmpolcevideo.com/

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

Shop This Country Life Merch

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It’s hard to imagine an old house without a screen door. And even though they may mostly be a thing of the past, they still hold a significant place in Brent’s memories. A listener’s experience is outlined through his knocking on doors asking for hunting permission. Then Brent shares some observations that detail how the thought of a screen door or even a similar sound of one closing can bring on a flood of memories. 

Ryan's Website: https://www.rmpolcevideo.com/

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

Shop This Country Life Merch

Connect with Brent and MeatEater

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Published 2026-05-20

Ep. 457: Civil War - Part 1: The Seeds of War

61 min Transcript
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Host Clay Newcomb begins a new series on the American Civil War with historian and educator, JD Hewitt, of The History Underground. Clay invites you to go on a journey to ask the question that still divides Americans more than 160 years later: What was the Civil War really about? From slavery and states’ rights to Southern identity, economic power, abolitionists, and the lasting cultural memory of the Confederacy, Clay and JD attempt to navigate one of the most complicated and emotionally charged subjects in American history with honesty and nuance. The conversation traces the roots of the conflict from the founding of America through the rise of King Cotton, the contradictions of Thomas Jefferson, the expansion of slavery westward, and the radical actions of John Brown that helped push the nation toward war.

Watch Clay's Alaska Bear Hunt on YouTube

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

Connect with Clay and MeatEater

Clay on Instagram

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Host Clay Newcomb begins a new series on the American Civil War with historian and educator, JD Hewitt, of The History Underground. Clay invites you to go on a journey to ask the question that still divides Americans more than 160 years later: What was the Civil War really about? From slavery and states’ rights to Southern identity, economic power, abolitionists, and the lasting cultural memory of the Confederacy, Clay and JD attempt to navigate one of the most complicated and emotionally charged subjects in American history with honesty and nuance. The conversation traces the roots of the conflict from the founding of America through the rise of King Cotton, the contradictions of Thomas Jefferson, the expansion of slavery westward, and the radical actions of John Brown that helped push the nation toward war.

Watch Clay's Alaska Bear Hunt on YouTube

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

Connect with Clay and MeatEater

Clay on Instagram

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips

MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

Shop Bear Grease Merch

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Published 2026-05-15

Ep. 455: This Country Life - A Father’s Gift

22 min Transcript
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Brent’s taking a break from turkey tales this week to highlight a listener’s story. There’s a good lesson within the narrative that spoke to Brent and he’s hoping for you to feel the same. A simple story with a simple lesson that can impact generations. 

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

Shop This Country Life Merch

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Brent’s taking a break from turkey tales this week to highlight a listener’s story. There’s a good lesson within the narrative that spoke to Brent and he’s hoping for you to feel the same. A simple story with a simple lesson that can impact generations. 

Thank you to our sponsors, Case Knives and Stor-Mor.

Shop This Country Life Merch

Connect with Brent and MeatEater

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Published 2026-05-13

Ep. 455: Render - Jason is Here: The Guy Who Got Shot

88 min Transcript
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Host Clay Newcomb is joined by Dr. Misty Newcomb, Bear Newcomb, Brent Reaves, and Josh “Landbridge” Spielmaker, along with special guest Jason Dean, whose story was featured in episode 451, Shot in the Back - The Jason Dean Story. Together, the crew reflects on the 1990 hunting accident that nearly took Jason’s life and explores how surviving and a life-threatening event such as this can profoundly shape a person’s outlook and perspective for every day that follows. More than just a story of survival, this conversation reveals the character of a man who, despite overwhelming hardship and impossible odds, has remained grounded in faith, gratitude, and positivity.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

Connect with Clay and MeatEater

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Host Clay Newcomb is joined by Dr. Misty Newcomb, Bear Newcomb, Brent Reaves, and Josh “Landbridge” Spielmaker, along with special guest Jason Dean, whose story was featured in episode 451, Shot in the Back - The Jason Dean Story. Together, the crew reflects on the 1990 hunting accident that nearly took Jason’s life and explores how surviving and a life-threatening event such as this can profoundly shape a person’s outlook and perspective for every day that follows. More than just a story of survival, this conversation reveals the character of a man who, despite overwhelming hardship and impossible odds, has remained grounded in faith, gratitude, and positivity.

Thank you to our sponsor, Tecovas.

If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com

Connect with Clay and MeatEater

Clay on Instagram

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MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Published 2026-05-11

Ep. 454: Backwoods University - Southern Dinosaurs

40 min Transcript
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In deep time we know the earth was covered with dinosaurs and ice age megafauna. However, the story gets all the more real and tangible when you narrow it down and dive into a specific region or state. This week we’ll learn about the mammoths, giant aquatic lizards, duck billed dinosaurs, stag moose, caribou, and many other species that used to inhabit Mississippi and other parts of the southeastern U.S.

Connect with Lake Pickle and MeatEater

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In deep time we know the earth was covered with dinosaurs and ice age megafauna. However, the story gets all the more real and tangible when you narrow it down and dive into a specific region or state. This week we’ll learn about the mammoths, giant aquatic lizards, duck billed dinosaurs, stag moose, caribou, and many other species that used to inhabit Mississippi and other parts of the southeastern U.S.

Connect with Lake Pickle and MeatEater

Lake Pickle on Instagram

MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and YouTube Clips

MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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