High Country and Handmade: Stories of the western craft and way of life

Bears, Moose & Hounds with Bullfrog Outdoors

A long-form conversation with a Maine outfitter about guiding bear, moose and deer hunts, running and training hound dogs, and the rhythms of the hunting season.
We discuss dog breeds and kennels, baiting versus rigging, trapping, injuries and recovery, winter hog hunts in Florida, travel for hunting, and the realities of outfitting as a way of life.

Inside the Fiddle with Jacie Sites

Five-time national fiddle champion Jacie Sites joins High Country and Handmade to discuss her musical journey, moving back to Pendleton, and forming her new band, the Knit Pickers.
Jacie explains her teaching philosophy, practice tips, the difference between fiddle and violin, and how she helps students reach competition and performance success while exploring diverse fiddle styles and recording projects.
This episode blends inspiring stories, practical advice for musicians and makers, and a look at Jacie’s current projects including private lessons, an online subscription site, and upcoming concerts.

Trap Line Secrets with Andrew Lovick

Andrew Levick of 360 Sportsman and Wildlife Creations walks through practical trapping techniques—from boiling and waxing traps to freeze-proofing sets, baiting cubbies, and using lures like Gusto. He explains trap placement, using multiple traps per location, and tips for bobcat and coyote lines.The episode also shares real-season stories from North Idaho and Montana, working with hounds, taxidermy ties to land access, safety around dogs and snares, and how to balance trapping with hunting and shop life.

Kevin Thomas. Outlaw Grit: Touring, Songwriting, and Chasing Freedom

Kevin Thomas shares his journey from Kentucky roots and a hand-me-down guitar to quitting a steady federal job and pursuing outlaw country full time. He talks about writing, co-writing, playing covers, the grind of social media and touring, and the financial and personal sacrifices required for a music career.The episode also covers his upcoming UK tour and collaborations, his views on success and independence, and the balance of supporting family while chasing creative freedom and growth.

The Minkman, Pest control with dogs and mink

From rats to muskrats we learn all about the art of pest control with mink and dogs. The advantages and disadvantages of the different breeds and styles. I learned a bunch and look forward to experiencing it someday. The recording app decided we were done just after the hour and 55 min mark. We will continue the conversation another day. Thanks for joining us!!

Honky-Tonk & Hound Dogs: Chase Richburg on Music, Hunting, and Last-Minute Gigs

Chase Richburg, a Texas country singer-songwriter, joins the podcast to talk about his music career, last-minute bookings, and opening for bigger acts. He shares stories from life on the road and growing as an artist while releasing new music.The conversation also dives into hunting adventures — bear hunting, hound seasons, Montana trips, and gear mishaps — plus reflections on regional differences, country music authenticity, and upcoming song releases.

Pack Goats, Backcountry Gear & Wild Hound Encounters with Nathan Putnam

Nathan Putnam of Putnam Pack Coats talks about raising and training pack goats, designing lightweight aluminum saddles and panniers, and tailoring gear for backcountry hunters. He explains breed choices, horn care and heat management, and the custom approach behind his equipment.The episode also shares vivid backcountry stories — hounds, bear encounters, GPS tracking and the risks of deep wilderness work — and offers practical resources for beginners (North American Pack Goat Association and PutnamPackCoats.com).

Episode 10 with Anna Wescoat

Anna Westcoat joins the podcast to talk about her musical upbringing, playing dozens of instruments, and honoring old-school country traditions while navigating modern platforms like TikTok and Spotify.The conversation covers songwriting, performing, creative routines, balancing family and art, leatherwork and outdoors life, and the value of slowing down to appreciate community and craft.

High Country and Handmade Ep 9 with Sunni Leavell

Today we had a very fun and educational interview with cattle rancher and author, Sunni Leavell. We discussed her upcoming books, the importance of predator management, how things may be changing for the better and the uphill obstacles we all face as lovers of everything related to the outdoors and nature. Thank you for joining us and let us know how we can improve.
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Today was a somber beginning with the events of the day. We can never condone violence against anyone. The talk today was scattered and followed the squirrel with the tin foil hat but please, keep an open mind to others ideas. None of us are greater than the next. Pray for those afflicted and keep your eyes and minds open. God bless and love to all