Stoking Embers | Reflections on Our Conversation with Dr. Chris Jenkins

In this Stoking Embers episode, we look back on our conversation with Dr. Chris Jenkins—conservationist, biologist, hunter, and CEO of The Orianne Society. Our time with Chris lingered long after recording, stirring reflections on the connection between wild landscapes, the creatures that inhabit them, and the stories that shape us.

We talk about the significance of tending to the wild places that form our identity, the beauty in paying attention to the overlooked things of creation, and how spending time outdoors shapes the soul. And yes—we revisit a few of Chris’s epicbear hunting stories from the Appalachian Mountains and the backcountry of Idaho, and what those moments taught us about courage, humility, and wonder.

• The Orianne Society — Conservation of reptiles & amphibians:
  https://www.oriannesociety.org

• Backcountry Hunters & Anglers — Public lands & waters conservation:
  https://www.backcountryhunters.org

• Snake Talk with Dr. Chris Jenkins (Podcast):
  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/snake-talk/id1501749931

Stoking Embers is our space to slow down, reflect, and revisit the conversations that continue to shape us—long after the microphones are off.

Learn more about Chris and the work mentioned in this reflection:

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Chris Jenkins—conservationist, biologist, storyteller of the wild, and CEO of The Orianne Society, a nonprofit working to conserve reptiles and amphibians across the Southeast. Chris also serves on the Board of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, where he advocates for protecting wild places and public lands for future generations.

From tracking Eastern Indigo Snakes through longleaf pine forests to bear hunts in the Appalachian backcountry and the rugged mountains of Idaho, Chris shares the stories, landscapes, and defining experiences that have shaped his life’s work.

What We Discuss

* Chris’s childhood influences and the call toward conservation

* The **Nantahala Mountains** and their lasting effect on his identity

* Why reptiles and amphibians matter—and what they tell us about ecosystem health

* Life in the field 150+ days a year and the clarity that comes with immersion

* Reconciling science and wonder, data and awe

* How hunting and biology can coexist in harmony

* Memorable bear hunts, close calls, and lessons learned in the wild

* The responsibility and joy of stewarding wild places

About Our Guest

Dr. Chris Jenkins is the CEO of The Orianne Society and a board member of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers. His work focuses on habitat restoration, species conservation, and thoughtful connection to the landscapes that shape our stories.

Learn more about The Orianne Society:

(https://www.oriannesociety.org)

Backcountry Hunters & Anglers:

(https://www.backcountryhunters.org)

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Show Notes — Stoking Embers with Jeremiah Doughty

In this episode, we introduce a new format on The Storied Outdoors that we’re calling “Stoking Embers.” The name, sparked during a brainstorm with our friend Hank Hershey, captures what we’ve always aimed to do—find clarity in the stories we tell and the adventures that shape us. These episodes are our chance to slow down, sit with what we heard in the previous conversation, and let the embers of those stories warm us just a little longer.

This week, Bryan and Brad sit down after a rich and mouthwatering conversation with Jeremiah Doughty of From Field to Plate. Jeremiah is a wild game chef, hunter, and storyteller who shared not only his passion for ethical and intentional hunting, but also a long list of recipes that had us hungry before the episode wrapped.

In this Stoking Embers reflection, we talk about:

• The recipes and cooking methods Jeremiah shared during the interview

• How wild game preparation has shaped our own tables and memories

• The connection between food, story, and gratitude

• Why taking time to reflect after a good conversation helps the story settle deeper

We also share a few of our own favorite wild game dishes—and would love to hear yours.

We want these Stoking Embers episodes to be conversations with you, not just for you.
What resonated?
What challenged you?
What sparked something deeper?

Send us a message and let us know.

We’re always looking to connect with people whose lives reflect wonder, courage, curiosity, and love for the outdoors.
If someone came to mind, introduce us.

Thanks for listening, and for tending the fire with us.
Keep your eyes open.
Your stories are shaping you.
Let’s pay attention together.

What Stood Out to You? Know Someone With a Story Worth Sharing?

Episode Title: From Field to Plate with Jeremiah Doughty

“The real trophy is the one you put on your plate.”

Show Notes:
In this episode of The Storied Outdoors, we sit down with Jeremiah Doughty—wild game chef, hunter, and founder of From Field to Plate. After developing a beef allergy, Jeremiah turned fully to wild game and discovered more than a new way to feed his family—he found a calling. Through his hands-on schools, writing, and his podcast Tasting Wild, Jeremiah teaches others to harvest, butcher, and cook their own food, reminding us that the true trophy isn’t on the wall—it’s the meal shared at the table.

We talk about:

• Jeremiah’s roots in Southern California and how his love for dove hunting sparked a lifelong passion for the outdoors.

• The journey from beef allergy to a field-to-table mission.

• What it really means when he says, “The real trophy is the one you put on your plate.”

• How his 4-day hunting, butchering, and cooking school in South Texas transforms the way people view food and faith.

• Lessons from his devotional Game & Grace—how hunting reveals deeper truths about gratitude, stewardship, and grace.

This conversation explores the intersection of faith, food, and the wild. Jeremiah reminds us that honoring the hunt and giving thanks for every harvest can bring us closer to creation—and the Creator.

Connect with Jeremiah Doughty:

• Website & Links: linktr.ee/fromfieldtoplate

• Instagram: @fromfieldtoplate

Listen & Subscribe:
Find more episodes of The Storied Outdoors wherever you listen to podcasts.

Season 11 kicks off with new adventures from Jekyll Island to the White River, a fresh series called Stoking Embers, and big news ahead. Join Brad Hill and Bryan Gill for stories of faith, adventure, and reflection.

In this heartfelt season finale of The Storied Outdoors, Bryan and Brad sit down to reflect on the remarkable guests and memorable essays that made Season Ten so special. From deep conversations to inspiring stories, they revisit the moments that left a lasting impact—and share what they’ve learned along the way.

In classic Storied Outdoors fashion, this episode also takes a few scenic detours. Bryan shares about a recent family trip to Jekyll Island, GA, and a peaceful birding outing with friend Damian Bankhead. The two co-hosts also catch up on life, laughter, and what’s on the horizon for the podcast.

Plus, don’t miss the exciting announcement about the future of The Storied Outdoors, and a quick reminder—only 7 more hat preorders needed to bring the next batch to life!

This episode is both a reflective snapshot of a full season and a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the friendship that fuels the storytelling.

Episode Summary:
In this deeply moving episode, co-host Bryan Gill shares a reflective and emotional story of guiding his teenage son through his first deer hunt. A Father’s Charge is more than just an account of a hunting trip—it's a meditation on legacy, manhood, reverence for life, and the sacred responsibility of fathers to lead with both courage and tenderness.

Set in the quiet, golden light of a frosty Alabama morning, Bryan recounts the moments of anticipation, a whispered prayer, and the irreversible stillness that follows a successful shot. With vivid storytelling and honest emotion, this episode explores the tension and beauty of passing on a tradition that shapes character and invites young men into a deeper awareness of their place in creation.

In This Episode:

• The emotional weight of a first hunt

• The sacred nature of taking life

• How the outdoors can be a space for spiritual formation

• What it means to be a father raising a son

• Reflections on legacy, reverence, and responsibility

Whether you're a hunter, a parent, or simply someone drawn to stories that matter, this episode offers something meaningful to hold on to.

🔗 Links & Resources:
Website: thestoriedoutdoors.com
Watch on YouTube: The Storied Outdoors Channel
Follow us on Instagram: @thestoriedoutdoors

Legacy, Leadership & the Moose Story – A Conversation with Dr. Jay Wolf

Episode Description:Dr. Jay Wolf served as Pastor of First Baptist Montgomery for nearly 30 years and now continues his Kingdom work as Pastor Emeritus. In this episode of The Storied Outdoors, we sit down with Dr. Wolf to talk about life, legacy, leadership, and a few unforgettable stories—like how the amazing story of his daughter-in-law's healing makes his epic Moose Hunt look like a mouse.

Raised as the son of a cowboy in Texas, Dr. Wolf shares how his roots shaped his faith and calling. From his first deer to his philosophy of family discipleship—“If you hunt with your son, you won’t have to hunt for your sons”—Jay emphasizes the deep importance of relationships and outdoor moments that form lasting bonds.

We also explore his global mission work, his passion for Christ-centered service, and what’s next as he continues supporting ministries like Hope Heals, led by his son and daughter-in-law.

This is a rich, meaningful, and often hilarious conversation with a man who embodies what it means to Fix Your Eyes on Jesus.

🎙️ Topics Covered:

• Growing up cowboy-style in Texas

• The first deer hunting story

• An Epic Moose Story

• Family, discipleship, and outdoor ministry

• His current mission work and future adventures

🔑 Quote of the Episode:“Relationship is the meat and marrow of life.”