Connecting with Conservation

Season 2: Episode 28: How Social Media is Changing Conservation with Chuck R. of Open Source Defense

In this episode of Connecting with Conservation, we sit down with Chuck R, founder of Open Source Defense and a longtime tech industry leader from Google and Facebook. We explore how technology and cultural perspectives around firearms shape modern wildlife conservation funding. Chuck shares fascinating stories from taking over a thousand Silicon Valley colleagues to the range for their first experience, discusses how Open Source Defense works to demystify responsible gun ownership, and explains why most of today’s conservation funding actually comes from recreational shooting — not hunting.

Season 2: Special Alert: Public Lands Sell Off!

Your public lands under management of the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management are in the crosshairs of congress. Give a listen to what several conservation community leaders think about this misguided approach.

Season 2: Episode 27: Dustin Wallace talks about Faxon's contribution to conservation.

In this episode of Connecting with Conservation, hosts Jon Gassett and Jim Curcuruto sit down with Dustin Wallace, Director of Sales & Marketing at Faxon to explore the fascinating intersection between American manufacturing, innovation, and wildlife conservation funding. Dustin shares Faxon’s journey from a machining operation to one of the most respected barrel manufacturers in the country. He discusses their commitment to quality, agility in a shifting market, and how the excise taxes on sales directly support state fish and wildlife agencies through the Pittman-Robertson Act. This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how companies like Faxon help sustain outdoor recreation and habitat conservation—while also creating reliable, precision-built products for sportsmen and women.

Season 2: Episode 26: Talking High Performance Rimfires with Scott Volquartsen

Enjoy plinking or are you more of a competition type? This week on Connecting with Conservation we talk with Scott Volquartsen, the owner and innovator of high-end accessories and upgrades for your favorite rimfire calibers. Give it a listen!

Season 2: Episode 25: Hornady's Commitment to Conservation with Seth Swerczek

Did you know that Hornady is one of the largest U.S. based manufacturer of hunting products? Today on Connecting with Conservation we talk with Hornady's Marketing Communications Manager Seth Swerczek about their commitment to wildlife conservation funded thru the federal excise tax.

Season 2: Episode 24: Beth Shimanski, Vice President of Marketing with Savage Arms Inc.

Today on Connecting with Conservation, we talk with a major excise tax payer in the conservation arena. Beth Shimanski of Savage Arms, Inc. talks about some of the unique aspects of their business model. Give it a listen!

Season 2: Episode 23: Executive Director Ryan Brown talks about Virginia Wildlife.

Today on Connecting with Conservation we discuss all that Virginia has to offer in the form of wildlife-associated outdoor recreation. Ryan Brown, Executive Director of the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources joins us to talk bears, elk, and other iconic Virginia species. Give it a listen!

Season 2: Episode 22: World and National Champion USPSA Competitor Julie Golob

Today we speak with a USPSA National and World Champion competitor, veteran, coach, author, chef, and mom. Julie Golob is all of these and more. Hear her talk about her favorite outdoor pursuits that also help support wildlife conservation. Give it a listen!

Season 2: Episode 21: Buying and Selling Outdoor Products with Josh Perrone & Allen Forkner

On this episode of Connecting with Conservation we talked about with Josh Perrone and Allen Forkner about buying and selling outdoor products essential to your favorite recreational pursuits. Josh is the Advocacy Relations Manager and Allen is the Brand Public Relations Manager for one of the largest online brokers of essential outdoor products. Give it a listen!

Season 2: Episode 20: Effects of Tariffs on Angling Equipment with Glenn Hughes

Today on Connecting with Conservation we talk with Glenn Hughes, President and CEO of American Sportfishing Association. Glenn updates us on the potential impacts of tariffs on imported fishing gear, the upcoming ICAST trade show, and the value of partnerships.