Bear Grease

This week on the show, Brent's drawing on his history in the big woods of Arkansas to make the case that everyone -- from foresters, firewood cutters, hunters, and anyone in between -- ought to know their trees. Join him as he walks you through using tree identification skills to make the most out of his hunts, avoid extra labor in his firewood collecting, and shut up the high school loudmouth. Connect with Brent and MeatEater MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode, Clay Newcomb is taking us to what some Native Americans call the river beyond any age and others call the Father of Waters. He’s talking about the Mississippi river. To understand the river and its impact on America takes a diverse cast of storytellers. New York Times best selling author John M. Barry will be our guest, along with author Hank Burdine and a fellow by the name of Will Primos. We'll also be joined by two Army Corps of Engineers: David Biedenharn, a hydraulic engineer, as well as fisheries biologist Jack Killgore. We might even hear the words of Mark Twain and T.S. Elliott. This has been a long time coming and Clay is on a personal journey to understand the significance of this American river on this country and on his life. The current will be swift and muddy, but we really doubt that you're gonna want to miss this one... Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Watermelons? Yep, watermelons. Today on the show, Brent pontificates on the finer points of summer's favorite fruit. Where do they come from? How the heck can you have a seedless watermelon? How do you pick the very best of the bunch? Stick around and Brent is gonna spell it out for you. In the words of self-described watermelon aficionado Clay Newcomb (not a joke), you're not gonna want to miss this one. Connect with Brent and MeatEater MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the Bear Grease Render, Clay Newcomb is joined by the usual suspects - Brent Reaves, Misty Newcomb, as well as Kristy and Josh “Landbridge” Spielmaker. The crew starts off talking about a catastrophic energy that Misty suffered after thinking about sneezing, or maybe long days of quilting, Brent's affinity for Bream, as well as an update on Banjo and whether or not he’ll be up for sale. Afterwards the crew dives into Crockett’s travels through Arkansas on his way to Texas and Davy’s death at the Alamo - as well as an informal poll of the crew’s opinion of how he died. You’ll want to stick around to hear which famous Musician is a die hard Crockett and Alamo collector and enthusiast. We really doubt you’re gonna want to miss this one… Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of THE This Country Life podcast, our buddy Brent talks us through one of his absolute favorite things -- bream fishing. He covers everything from catching the little buggers to what may be his real favorite part of the process (that would be eating them). So listen up and get the crickets ready, you're not going to want to miss any of this! Connect with Brent and MeatEater MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week’s episode of Bear Grease, the final episode in our series on David Crockett, Clay Newcomb takes us on a deep dive into Davy’s death at the Alamo. He’ll look not just at the pop culture versions from John Wayne and Walt Disney, but also history’s best understanding of what really transpired. We’ll learn that it was far more important in US history than you might think. Clay talks with Wade Dillon, James Crisp, and of course, New York Times best-selling author, Robert Morgan about what led Crockett to Texas and what really happened at the Alamo. Did Crockett die fighting or was he executed…and why do we care? We really doubt you’re going to want to miss this one… Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome back to This Country Life. This week on the show, our buddy Brent is gonna tell you all about frog gigging, one of his favorite summertime activities. He's gonna cover everything from the end of your spear to the end of your fork. Brent's also gonna touch on regulations, and just what becomes of the folks who throw the regs to the wayside. If you've got a body of water with some bullfrogs near you (and you probably do), you're not going to want to miss this one. Connect with Brent and MeatEater MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the Bear Grease Render, Clay Newcomb is joined by the usual suspects - Brent Reaves, Misty Newcomb, Josh “Landbridge” Spielmaker - as well as new render guest Andrew Scott Wills, Nashville songwriter and creative force behind Hawken Horse. The crew starts off talking about Andrew’s interest in the American frontier and Mountain as well as what it’s like to be a professional songwriter before he plays a live rendition of “The Ballad of Warner Glenn” a song written by Clay and recorded by Hawken Horse. Afterwards the crew dives into the second edition of the Bear Grease Pop Quiz where they discuss topics like David Crockett’s political nickname, his near death experience in Alabama, and other topics from last week’s episode on Davy. You’ll want to stick around to hear what song the crew closes the show out with. We really doubt you’re gonna want to miss this one… Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you a duck hunter? Are you thinking about getting some buddies together for an A-1 guided experience? Well before you go, your buddy Brent -- a former Arkansas waterfowl guide himself -- wants to make sure you get the most out of your trip. On this week's episode, Brent's dropping an abbreviated masterclass on being the best client you can be and having a hunt so good, you and your buddies will be hugging over a pile of greenheads. Just don't hug Brent's brother -- more on that later. Connect with Brent and MeatEater MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this third episode, we’re navel deep into the life of America’s first celebrity backwoodsman, David “Davy” Crockett. We’ve learned there were four Crockett’s known by America – the bear hunter, the soldier, the politician and the martyr at the Alamo. We ended the last episode with Crockett leaving the military, but today things get dicey – Crockett became America’s first famous working class, populist politician. We’ll look into when David Crockett’s wife died, learn of his folksy campaign style, see his feud with Andrew Jackson - and his opposition to Old Hickory’s Indian Removal Act of 1830 - and ultimately see Crockett’s biggest political blunder that eventually lead his death. We’ll even talk with Robert Morgan about Crockett’s influence on Abraham Lincoln. We really doubt you’re going to want to miss this one.... Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, our buddy Brent is offering you one of his secrets to making life long friends -- saying hi to strangers. In a world of social media and text messages, there's still a lot of power left in a greeting. You never know who you're saying hi to, or who they might become to you later. Connect with Brent and MeatEater MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week’s episode of the Bear Grease Render, Clay Newcomb is joined by Misty Newcomb, Josh Spielmaker, Brent Reaves, and Joe Wilson, founder of the World Champion Squirrel Cook Off. The crew discusses the history of the Squirrel Cook Off, as well as the cultural significance and implications surrounding hunting and cooking small game. After fleshing out the finer details of, quite possibly, the most important annual event in North America, Clay springs a pop quiz on the crew to discover whether or not they’ve been paying attention - see if you can keep up - and after an intense battle, crowns a victor in a narrow race. The crew then discusses some of their favorite parts of the previous episode which followed the childhood and young adulthood of America’s first celebrity, David Crockett. You’ll also want to stay tuned for Joe telling the story of his Donut Man from his podcast Cooking’ up a Story. We really doubt you’re gonna want to miss this one… Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A man only gets so many dogs in his life, and picking the right ones is important. Whatever breed of squirrel-treeing, tail-wagging outdoor accomplice you've got your eye on, Brent's gonna tell you the tricks he uses to find the very best pups. On the fence about getting a squirrel dog of your own? Brent's got a couple stories up that might just sway you. Connect with Brent and MeatEater MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the last episode, we learned that David Crockett was America's first celebrity and that his identity was founded on being a bear hunter. We learned that there were four Crocketts that America knew: the bear hunter, the soldier, the politician and the martyr at the Alamo. Today, Clay Newcomb will dive into what he believes was the most important part of his life, his childhood in early life. They didn't put this part of his story on television and make cartoons of it to put on lunch boxes, but this period led him to be a soldier, which we're gonna talk about. We'll hear again from Cornell Professor, Robert Morgan and meet the man who's had one of Crockett's first guns, Betsy, in his family since 1803. We might even hear from the “greatest of all time” Michael Jordan. The way forward is complex. The truth is narrow and elusive, but Crockett's influence on American culture is foundational to learning why we are the way we are. We really doubt you’re gonna want to miss this one… Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Brent gives you the low down on how to field judge a restaurant in parts unknown. He also shares a couple stories about when you ought to just buy the whole role of bologna at the deli counter, why you should be suspicious of even your favorite foods on the menu, and how a young man's bad decisions on a night out don't begin and end with what he chooses to quench his thirst. Connect with Brent and MeatEater MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week’s episode of the Bear Grease Render, Clay Newcomb is joined by a veteran cast of characters: Brent Reaves, of This Country Life fame, Michael Rosmond of Sunspot Lights, Ben Lagrone, and Jonathan Webster. The crew dives right in to talking about America’s First Celebrity, David Crockett, dissecting the impact of Disney’s Crockett revival of the 50’s and its lasting effect on the childhood memories and adult identities of (not just) American men, before backing up to cover topic like good hunting dogs and how you’re closer to death than you realize; how to catch a live coon by the tail and what ever happened to Hoot. Clay then steers the conversation back to the Highlights of the previous Crockett podcast as well as what’s to come in the next episodes of this series on one of America’s favorite bear hunters, politicians, and folk heroes. And we bet you’ll wanna stick around to hear Brent and Clay pontificate on the fashion, comfort and practicality of the Bib Overall. I really doubt you’re gonna wanna miss this one… Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Brent gives you the low down on setting trotlines for catfish. As traditional as it is effective, trotline fishing has been around forever because it works! Setting one up is something you can do yourself, and Brent's here to walk you through it. He'll also share a cautionary tale about packing for an expedition, and a sad solution to forgotten taters. As Clay Newcomb might say, you ain't gonna wanna miss this one! Connect with Brent and MeatEater MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode, Clay Newcomb explores America’s first true celebrity. Built on his identity as a bear hunter, he was world famous during his lifetime and believed it came upon him by accident. All he did was play the part of himself, David Crockett. This Tennessee backwoodsman embodied the narrative of the self-made man and Manifest Destiny that became a national obsession and deeply influenced our culture, even to this day. The Crockett myth and reality are hard to parse, but Clay is joined by R. Scott Williams, author of the new book, “The Accidental Fame and Lack of Fortune of West Tennessee's David Crockett,” as well as by New York Times best-selling author and Bear Grease veteran, Robert Morgan, to help discern fact from legend. One thing’s for sure – we love this guy and we really doubt you’re going to want to miss this one… Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on the show, Brent tells you everything he knows about choosing a vehicle to get around the backroads. We're not talking lifted trucks and shiny new dualies that'll go to the junkyard without ever having towed as much as a duck boat -- we're talking real, genuine country rides that are ALL about functionality. Connect with Brent and MeatEater MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week’s episode of the Bear Grease Render, Clay Newcomb is joined by Josh “Landbridge” Spielmaker, Brent Reaves, Malachi Nichols, Ben Lagrone, and Misty Newcomb. The crew discusses Josh’s new fly fishing boat, Brent’s successful new podcast “This Country Life” and Misty’s recent doctorate. Clay then recounts taking Banjo the Mule to be trained by an Amish family before turning the discussion to Asa “Forest” Carter, a KKK leader, speech writer for Gov. George Wallace, and Conman, and his fraudulently labeled semi-autobiography “The Education of Little Tree” whose themes of love and empathy run counter to the author’s prior life’s work of hate and division. The crew dive’s further into the “death of the author” perspective of interpretation, the themes of redemption, possible mental illness, and the literal death of the author. I really doing you’re gonna wanna miss this one… Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on This Country Life, Brent introduces you to a few of his turkey hunting mentors, and tells stories of chasing wily gobblers everywhere from river bottoms to ridge tops. Looking to find a mentor of your own? Brent's gonna tell you how you might. Connect with Brent and MeatEater MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Bear Grease, part two of our Conman series on the double life of Asa Forrest Carter, Clay Newcomb dives into the gritty details of the violence, hate, and conspiracy philosophies of the first 45 years of his life and how, in the last decade of his life, he transformed into an unrecognizable, “Cherokee Indian” author who wanted to be America’s next Hemmingway – and almost did it. Once again, author of Unmasking the Klansman, Dr. Dan T Carter and Steve Rinella of MeatEater lead the way as his guests. Brace yourself because this winding trail will be treacherous as they talk about the beating of jazz singer Nat King Cole, read from the Unabomber’s Manifesto, and begin to understand how Asa Carter did what he did. We’re going neck deep into the mind of a Conman. We really doubt you’re gonna wanna miss this one… Audio excerpts courtesy of “The Reconstruction of Asa Carter” Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on This Country Life, Brent Reaves shares the stuff in his pockets -- what some of you might call his "every day carry." From a 10 year old buckeye to a gold dollar coin, Brent walks you through each item you can expect him to have on his person, why he carries it, and why he thinks you should, too. So come on in and find out what makes Brent's EDC short list -- after this, you might just add a few items to yours! Connect with Brent and MeatEater MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the Bear Grease Render, the crew convenes in Missouri for some spring turkey hunting. Clay Newcomb is joined by veteran Meateater videographers Loren Moulton and Dave Gardner as well as Brent Reaves, who you can now hear every Friday on this same feed on his new podcast This Country Life. The crew recaps the triumphs and pitfalls of chasing those wisened longbeards in the spring woods before turning their attention to Forest, or should we say Asa, Carter’s “The Education of Little Tree.” The crew discusses how remarkable it is that Asa Carter was able to pull off this deception, whether or not this was an arc of repentance and redemption or if it was just a con, and the decision to give this to their kids to read or not. I really doubt you’re gonna wanna miss this one… Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to episode one of This Country Life! Today, we meet your host Brent Reaves: a family man and life long outdoorsman whose familial roots in rural Arkansas can be traced back over 150 years. As a way of introduction, Brent shares two of his favorite stories, taking us from schoolyard hi-jinx to riding out a lightning storm in a washed-out muskrat burrow. You're not gonna want to miss this addition to the Bear Grease lineup. Connect with Brent and MeatEater MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Bear Grease Clay Newcomb 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 supremicist, 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. I really doubt you’re gonna to wanna miss this one… Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the Bear Grease Render, Clay Newcomb travels down south to chase a Mississippi long beard. Joined by Lake Pickle, Jordan Blissett, and assistant to the regional producer, Isaac Neale, the crew talk about their favorite memories from their time at Primos, recount the morning’s hunt, describe the ubiquitous and iconic historic property from which they recorded es, and an unscheduled call in from the one and only Will Primos. You’re not gonna wanna miss this one… Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Bear Grease, Clay Newcomb hosts another all-star cast of sure 'nuff dyed in the wool, turkey hunting storytellers. Gobbling turkeys create a rare intoxication for man. It’s exhilarating to call, get a response, and watch a long beard work into shotgun range. Each spring, the turkey hunter has the opportunity to step into a world he does not fully understand and participate in it for short windows of time… it’s a rare experience. On this episode we’ve got eight storytellers that'll help you get a glimpse of that rare experience. We have North Carolina novelist David Joy, Jimbo Ronquest tells a story of a Missouri turkey hunt with his father, and a couple great Mississippi stories from Billy Johnson and David Hitt Neill. We also have some old favorites: Gary “Believer” Newcomb, Brent Reaves and Andy Brown.…I really doubt you’re going to want to miss this one… Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the Bear Grease Render, Clay Newcomb gathers special crew of turkey chasers and storytellers. Clay is joined by Gary “Believer” Newcomb, veteran Bear Greaser Andy Brown, Cauy House and his grandfather from his turkey story, Steve Phillips, as well as retired United States Forest Service agent and former Arkansas Game and Fish agent Joe Liles. Tune in for stories of first hunts, any swarms, and chasing poachers. Stay tuned for Gary describing his custom modified turkey gun. We really doubt you’re gonna wanna miss this one… Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week is open mic night at the Bear Grease home fire and Clay Newcomb is givin’ the stage to some of the best turkey hunters he could dig out of the spring woods. You'll hear from Cauy House, authors Robert Hitt Neill, Jr and Hank Burdine, Garvin Gibbons, and Richard Campbell. And Bear Grease veterans Andy Brown, Moe Shepherd, and Hall of Famer Roy Clark. These stories give a glimpse into the joys, tribulations and passions of the American turkey hunter. On this episode, we’ll hear about a white Tennessee turkey, a hunt where a hunter catches on fire, a turkey that had the gobble shot out of him, and we’ll end with a somber story that might bring a tear to your eye. I really doubt you’re going to want to miss this one.... Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the Bear Grease Render, Clay Newcomb is coming at you live for the second time from the Black Bear Bonanza in Northwest Arkansas. This time Clay is joined by render regulars Misty Newcomb, Josh "Landbridge" Spielmaker, and of course Brent Reaves, as well as Arkansas BHA Chapter Chair James Brandenburg and the state of Arkansas's Large Carnivore Biologist, Myron Means. The crew discusses hunting black bears in Arkansas, misconceptions about hunting bears over bait, and the importance of shooting mature boars to ensure the earlier season remains. Maybe most importantly, however, the gang premieres a brand new song, written by Clay about Bear Grease Hall of Famer James Lawrence, featuring Josh on Mandolin and Myron on Banjo. If you're a real Bear Greaser, you're not gonna wanna miss this one... Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What do you think of when you hear the state, Arkansas? This is Clay Newcomb’s beloved homeland, and on this episode he dives deep into the long-standing national image of Arkansas. It hasn’t always been great. Scholars say it was the most picked on state in America in the 20th century and to this day remains the most “hillbilly” state per the internet. But is that truth, or just the results of branding and strong stereotypes? Clay interviews Dr. Books Blevins, Dr. Jeanie Whayne, and Dr. Bob Cochran to get to the bottom of this image. It’s fascinating, entertaining, and in the end you may wish you were bare-footed and grinning ear-to-ear, living the highlife in Arkansas. Clay visits one of the nation’s premiere American art museums, Crystal Bridges, in Arkansas. He visits the Walmart museum to talk to Sam Walton’s hologram, and lastly, he’ll release a never before heard interview with Arkansas’s first son, Bill Clinton -- for real. All this will prove that there are really two Arkansas’s -- the stereotype and the real thing. We really doubt you’re going to want to miss this one. Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode, Clay Newcomb is all business. After introducing the render crew - Misty Newcomb, Gary Newcomb, Brent Reaves, Josh "Landbridge" Spielmaker, and Ben Lagrone - Clay gives a quick recap on the Bear Grease Hall of Fame, emphasizing its seriousness and immutability, before introducing not one, but two new candidates! Following the vote, the discussion turns to Clay's Magnum Opus, the most recent episode on "the Big Bear of Arkansas." The gang dissects a few topics like the nuance in culture, language, and accents even within a given region, the importance of the written word, and how remarkably media can impact culture. And stick around, because you're not gonna wanna miss Josh's take on why angling is better than hunting... Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode Clay Newcomb is going to take you on a journey to explore an uncanny bear hunting story written in 1841 called “The Big Bear of Arkansas.” Its influence almost single-handedly branded Arkansas as the “Bear State” and paved a path for some of America’s greatest Southern authors. Clay Newcomb and the crew will talk about the remarkable and pretty-durn-new-to-planet-earth power of media to influence our imaginations about people we’ll never meet, places we’ll never go, and how it can influence who we think we are. We'll hear from three of the greatest guests known West of the mighty Mississippi - renowned Ozark historian & author, Dr. Brooks Blevins, University of Arkansas Folklorist, Dr. Bob Cochran, and like a hickory nut between two acorns, MeatEater’s own Steven Rinella. This is one of Clay’s favorite stories our all time. If you’re a Bear Greaser at heart, I really doubt you’re going to want to miss this one… Sent from my iPhone Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week the Bear Grease Render is coming at you from camp in the Arkansas Delta on the Cache Bayou. Your fearless host, Clay Newcomb, is joined by the incomparable Brent Reaves as well as render veteran and owner of Sunspot Outdoors, Michael Rosamond. Cameramen Loren Moulton and Dave Gardner flew in for the render as well and decided to stick around and shoot some Coon and Squirrel Hunting for an upcoming Bear Grease project. As the river level rises, the crew discusses relevant topics like how river gauges work, where to hunt when your prime woods get flooded, and the importance of a good, bright coon light. The gang then dives into the last Bear Grease episode called "Tecumseh's Death," where they discuss the nuanced implications of the great orator and Shawnee leader's life and death. Stay tuned cuz you're not gonna wanna miss Clay's announcement for a special event... Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re on the third and final episode in our series on the Shawnee leader, Tecumseh. He’s been called the greatest Native leader in American history, but we’ve found ourselves backed against the bedrock of inevitability. On this side of mortality, all great men and their stories must come to end. On this episode we’ll talk with Peter Cozzens, Robert Morgan, Dave Edmunds and Shawnee Chief Ben Barnes about that fateful day in October 1813, but perhaps more relevant to us today, we’ll explore the ways in which we remember history sometimes playing tricks with our conscience to console an uncomfortable past. Was the image of the Shawnee reflected back to America really him all? And we’ll contrast the way different cultures view their great men – not everyone does it the same. Lastly, and on the wild meter of interest it’s pinned in the red, Shawnee Chief Ben Barnes will tell us the vision and mission of modern-day Shawnee Nation. Boys, I really doubt you’re going to want to miss this one. Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on the Bear Grease Render, a very special crew braves the elements to meet up to talk about the famed orator and Shawnee leader of the pan-indian confederacy, Tecumseh. Misty, Clay and Josh are joined this week by first time guests Jessica Jessica Lewallen and Kristie Speilmaker, as well as returning favorite Terrell Spencer. Topics discussed include an AI generated biographic article that struggles with the Newcomb's first names, the APPA rooster calling championship, and the importance of language. I really doubt you're gonna want to miss this one... Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the second episode in our Tecumseh series were we’ll look at his life from 1775 through 1812. Originally, I planned to title this one, “Uncommon Genius” which is what US President William Henry Harrison called the Shawnee. I decided, however, to use a declarative statement made by “the panther crossing the sky” himself. In response to intolerable encroachment, while many of his own tribe were leaving and heading West, Tecumseh said, “we shall remain.” We’re going to learn the details of Tecumseh’s involvement in the War of 1812, but most interesting to me, we’ll explore the worldview differences of the Indians and Europeans and how it was destined to fail, and we’ll see that change is the only constant and predictable thing on planet earth. I wish I had good news for you, but the waters continue to be murky, but this time with blood. I really doubt you’re gunna want to miss this one… Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Bear Grease, most of the regulars, Clay, Misty, Josh, Gary, and Isaac, gather at the Bear Grease Global Headquarters to discuss the great and enigmatic leader of the Pan-Indian Confederacy Movement, Tecumseh. But not before the crew, who is joined by James Brandenburg, Chair of the Arkansas chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, talk about the upcoming second annual Black Bear Bonanza which will take place March 4th from 9am to 5pm and feature, among other things, an owl hoot contest MC'ed by our very own Brent Reaves and judged by Clay Newcomb. Misty then dives into talking about her first duck hunt, before the outfit jumps back into discussing perhaps one of the most underrated, forgotten, and earliest American Folkheros - of whom was said "If it were not for the vicinity of the United States, he would perhaps be the founder of an empire that would rival in glory Mexico or Peru." We really doubt you're gonna want to miss this one... Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode we’re neck deep in the murky waters of American identity - we’re peering into the life of the Shawnee leader, Tecumseh. I want to understand his social and political context, the foundations of what built him, while trying to understand the extraordinary leadership of the man whose name means “a panther crossing the sky.” He was a hunter, a warrior, and an exceptional orator. He was a revolutionary leader who was a genius. Though he was considered an enemy of the United States, his legacy was grafted into our national character, and I believe he’s an American hero. In this series we’re going to hear from the current Chief of the Shawnee Nation, Ben Barnes, New York Times Best Selling author, Robert Morgan, acclaimed historian and author, Peter Cozzens, and Native American historian, Dr. Dave Edmunds. In all my work on this-here Bear Grease podcast, I don’t think I’ve ever had to dig as deep into American’s boneyard to get the goods. I really doubt, you’re going to want to miss this one... Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Bear Grease, Misty, Clay, and Brent are joined by some really special guests. Anne Marie Doramus is not only an AGFC Commissioner, but a life long duck hunter. Austin Booth, a former marine, is also an avid waterfowler and the director of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. And Kayle Browning is an sport shooter who has competed at the Olympics and a professional shooting coach. This star studded render crew discusses their favorite duck stories, from the podcast and from their lives before Brent and Austin grace us with a few licks off their j-frame and cutdown duck calls. I really doubt you’re gonna wanna miss this one. Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Waterfowlers occupy the ranks of the hardest core, most passionate, and ridiculous partakers of wild meat sources known. And they're great storytellers. This is our Duck Stories episode. We’ve searched the swamps and bayous for the best stories about skies being blacked out by mallard ducks, sunk boats, incredible dog retrieves and even gators. We really doubt -- even if you’re not a duck hunter -- that you’re going to want to miss this one. Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Bear Grease, the render crew gathers at Meateater South HQ to discuss a variety of things. Clay and Isaac discuss wild Bear Grease Hat sightings. Josh relates being recognized while fishing…by his voice. Brent talks about coon hunting with Clay’s dog Hoot. While Mist and Gary give their thoughts about on Target 2, Mr. Claude Maxwell. Make sure to catch our special guests bringing the Christmas well wishes. I really doubt you’re gonna wanna miss this one. Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, after getting a surprising email, Clay pulls an audible and hops a flight back to Ohio just to interview one very unique man - a business owner, a family man, and a respected pillar of his community. Without saying too much, what we can tell you is this: loyal listeners will recognize the popular threads of redemption, forgiveness and nuance woven into the tapestry of this story. To say that this episode is a surprise might be an understatement, but what we can guarantee is, you're not gonna wanna miss this one! Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One this episode of the regular crew is joined by Clay's friend Ben Lagrone. They talk about child birth, Clay's new coonskin cap, and the mystery Bengal's fan wearing a Bear Grease hat on national television. Clay goes into detail of the untimely passing of best coonhound, Fern. Which leads Gary "Believer" Newcomb to tell a rogue story of how he rode motorcycles all over Vietnam dressed in disguise and ended up in a motorcycle wreck. The crew has a lively discussion about the final episode in the Secret Agent Man series where they discuss the brilliance of human instinct. Clay ends by clarifying his social media biff with Steve Rinella. It's heartwarming, and you're not going to want to miss it! Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the third and final episode of our Secret Agent Man series with undercover Ohio Wildlife agent RT Stewart. In part one we learned about the big picture mechanics of undercover stings and how RT was a pioneer in the early 1990s for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. We learned that humans don’t do well with chronic stress and discussed the personal toll placed on undercover agents and their families because of it, On this third episode we’re going to hear about some close calls where RT was almost found out and explore the idea of human instinct, having a sixth sense, and how that compares with pure wit. Many believe decision making is purely based on observable data, but it sounds like some many subconscious decision making mechanisms are wired into our DNA. We'll hear again from Dr. Matthew Sharps of the University of California in Fresno and author, Chip Gross. In this final episode of the series, we'll explore some of RT’s best stories of how he handled trouble, and how he used an uncanny wit and intuition to de-escalate situations. Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Bear Grease, the “OG” render crew reunites to discuss Operation Redbud, which at the time was the largest turkey poaching sting in US history. Clay grills Brent on his experiences as an under cover narcotics agent and whether or not he is presently running a sting operation on Clay. Josh ponders the psychological impacts of long term deep cover operations. Gary discusses his experiences growing up around future President Bill Clinton, as well as some audio production tips for Phil the en guy engineer. And stick around, because you’re not going to want to miss Misty’s advice for Elon Musk in his new role as owner of Twitter. Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this 2nd episode in our Secret Agent Man series we’re going deep into the trenches of the darkside with undercover Ohio wildlife agent RT Stewart to get the full story on Operation Redbud, which at the time, was the largest turkey poaching sting in US history. RT is going to take us on a tour in the Poach Coach and we'll hear how he videoed over 100 illegal turkey kills in two springs. How would you like to see that on VHS tape? He’ll talk about the incredible owl hooting of his number one target, and take us right into the courtroom where the defense lawyers tried to discredit his character with accusations regarding drugs and alcohol. We’ll hear from Darth Vader, Bill Clinton and get the details of the coordinated bust involving 26 men and over 275 wildlife violations in Morgan County, Ohio. If you skip this story, you’re just plain yeller. I really doubt you’re gunna wanna miss this one. Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode, Clay is down in Oklahoma chasing whitetails in the heat of the rut, but finds some time to sit down with Bryan Jump, Sherry and Alvin Grigg, Dave Gardner, & Brian Ringles. They discuss the most recent episode, "Secret Agent Man," following real life undercover game warden R.T. Stewart. The crew also finds time to discuss people's strong opinions on equine hoof care, the finer points of hog hunting and plott hounds, and why law enforcement officers ask you to come sit in their car. This episode will have you asking for more, you're not going to want to miss those episode 2 spoilers that Clay can't keep himself from dropping. Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the Bear Grease Podcast, we’re going deep undercover in the rough country of Southeast Ohio to learn about the secret lives of wildlife poachers AND the life of an undercover wildlife agent by the name of RT Stewart. He worked 18 years for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, and in the 1990s, was one of the lead agents on the largest turkey poaching sting in US history. He’s a decorated law enforcement officer, known for going deep undercover – even years at a time -- and was willing to do whatever it took to bust outlaws. In his career, he never had a single one of his target suspects not be convicted of crimes. If the bad guys had known him, they’d have feared him, but they didn’t, because he was a ghost. We’ll hear from author Chip Gross, who wrote the book “Poachers Were My Prey” about Mr. Stewart and we’ll interview Dr. Mathew Sharps of California State University, author of “Processing Under Pressure: Stress, Memory, and Decision Making in Law Enforcement” about the psychology of undercover agents, and the personal cost that comes with living a lie. In this first episode of the series, we’ll meet RT and he’ll show the life of undercover agent – on part 2 – you’ll hear about his biggest undercover job. You’ll laugh, you’ll be intrigued, and you’ll cry on this one boys. We really doubt you’re going to want to miss this one… Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube Shop Bear Grease MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.