#987 - Ben O'Brien
NaN minutesEpisode #987
Ben O'Brien is the hunting marketing manager at YETI Coolers, he was also the executive editor for Petersen's Hunting.
Episodes with Ben O'Brien
Watch the full episode of #987 - Ben O'Brien.
Episode Timestamps
Ben O'Brien's Wild Adventures and the Cat Lady Cocktail Experiment
- Ben O'Brien discusses the infamous 'Cat Lady' cocktail made of tequila, Red Bull, and red wine, which he warns against trying.
- The conversation shifts to O'Brien's recent filming trip to the Northwest Territories for a Yeti-themed project.
- They share humorous insights regarding whiskey brands like Angels Envy and their upcoming fishing and hunting adventures.
Hunting Adventures in New Zealand: The Challenge of Himalayan Tar
- O'Brien reflects on the demanding experience of hunting Himalayan tar in New Zealand's challenging terrain.
- He highlights the unique relationship New Zealanders have with introduced species, including the lack of value placed on feral animals.
- The discussion elaborates on the ecological impact of introduced species and the local practices of population control through helicopter culling.
The Complex Relationship Between Wolves and Hunters: Exploring the Cultural Divide
- Discussion on the ecological impact of wolves and the historical context of their overpopulation issues following their reintroduction.
- Insights from a conversation with a YETI employee in Austin about the misconceptions surrounding wolves and hunting dynamics.
- The need for education around wildlife management and the counterproductive PR narratives surrounding wolves versus hunting.
The Evolution and Exoticism of Hunting in New Zealand: A Spotlight on Stags and Non-Native Species
- Exploration of New Zealand's unique hunting culture, shaped by the introduction of non-native species like the red deer and stag.
- The role of private landowners in managing wildlife populations through hunting and their contrasting views on wildlife management.
- The historical context of animal introduction in New Zealand and its implications for local ecosystems and hunting tourism.
The Host Eagle and Harpy Eagles: The Dangers of Killer Birds with Joe Rogan
- Discussion on the Host Eagle's size and its potential threat to humans.
- Exploration of the Harpy Eagle's predatory behavior, including an incident involving a scientist's camera.
- Revelation of bull sharks attacking humans and their surprising ability to swim far upriver as a comparison to predatory birds.
Bear Hunting Controversies and Culinary Insights: Joe Rogan's Take
- Debate about the culinary merits of bear meat compared to other game meats like elk.
- John Barclow from Sitka shares his experiences and opinions on bear hunting.
- The conversation highlights the complexities of meat preference among hunters, particularly regarding bear versus other game.
John from Sitka's Unique Brown Bear Meat Experience
- John, who works for Sitka, shares his experience of serving brown bear meat at parties, surprising guests with its taste.
- Discussion arises around the complexities and feelings associated with hunting, especially concerning bears.
- The importance of conservation vs. hunting motivations is debated, highlighting personal growth from hunting.
Hunting Adventures and Experiences with Elite Hunters
- The narrator reflects on practicing bow hunting alongside top hunters like John Dudley and Shane Dorian, focusing on the skills gained.
- An experience on Lanai is detailed, showcasing an overpopulation of axis deer and the ethical considerations of hunting them.
- The value of local hunting culture and the delicious meat from axis deer is emphasized, contrasting it with conservation arguments.
Steve Rinella's Perspective on Ethical Hunting and Meat Sourcing
- Steve Rinella emphasizes the importance of ethical hunting and the sustainable sourcing of animal protein.
- He discusses the overpopulation of certain species and how hunting provides jobs for locals, particularly in places like Lanai.
- Rinella argues for a reconnection with where meat comes from and critiques the disconnect modern society has with the hunting process.
The Complexity of Modern Hunting and Cultural Disconnect
- Rinella reflects on the challenges new hunters face in accessing hunting grounds and acquiring skills.
- He shares personal anecdotes about his journey into hunting and the significance it holds in his life.
- The conversation touches on societal views towards hunting, citing experiences with non-hunters and cultural misconceptions about meat consumption.
Understanding the Bear Persona: Insights from Joe Rogan's Discussion on Bears and Hunting
- Joe Rogan discusses the cultural portrayal of bears and other animals in cartoons and media, leading to misconceptions about their nature.
- Personal anecdotes involving bears in Connecticut and the challenges of wildlife interactions are shared, emphasizing the realities of living in proximity to these animals.
- The conversation explores the impact of deer populations on driving safety and the role of hunting in managing animal populations.
The Evolution of Hunting and Human Dietary Practices: Joe Rogan Explores Hunting Ethics
- Rogan reflects on the historical evolution from hunter-gatherer diets to modern agricultural practices, considering their impact on human societies.
- He emphasizes ethical hunting practices, describing the benefits of sourcing meat directly from nature versus store-bought options.
- The dialogue highlights the importance of mature animals in hunting for population sustainability, advocating for responsible hunting practices.
Eduardo Garcia and the Ethical Dilemma of Hunting Choices
- Discussion on the impact of hunting on animal populations and meat quality.
- Eduardo Garcia advocates for selecting older deer for better hunting satisfaction.
- Contrasting views on meat preference: tender younger deer versus older, tougher animals.
Legacy of Running: A Father's Journey from Backyard Jogger to Ultra-Marathoner
- The narrator reflects on their father's transformation into an ultra-marathon runner later in life.
- Anecdotes illustrate the mental and physical challenges faced during long-distance races.
- Insight into how the father's passion for running serves as a shared bonding experience with friends.
Exploring the Remote Rokam District of Nepal with Blue Sheep Hunting Adventures
- The narrator describes his hunting expedition for blue sheep in the Rokam district of Nepal, known for its challenging terrain and remote location.
- He recounts the local community's experiences during the Nepali Civil War from 1996 to 2006, revealing their poverty and resilience.
- The narrator shares a poignant story told by a local woman about the execution of six men during the rebel conflict, highlighting the region's turbulent history.
Survival Challenges and Cultural Insights During a Harrowing Trek in the Himalayas
- The journey includes physical challenges like altitude sickness and the dangers of precarious mountain trails, illustrating the intensity of the hiking experience.
- Amidst the trekking, the narrator experiences a moment of confusion and near collapse, underscoring the physical strains of the expedition.
- The narrative also touches on cultural exchanges, including local moonshine consumption, as well as humorous mishaps involving mules during the challenging trek.
Altitude Challenges and Hallucinations: O'Brien's Trek in Nepal
- O'Brien experiences dizziness and possible altitude sickness at 13,000 feet during a trek in Nepal.
- Ben Ayers, the medic and cameraman, helps O'Brien deal with his symptoms and prevent potential emergencies.
- Amidst hallucinations, including seeing a nonexistent wolf and a bizarre 'naked baby,' O'Brien grapples with the realities of high-altitude trekking.
Navigating Recovery and Challenges in the High Himalayas with O'Brien
- After a night of worry and care, O'Brien wakes up feeling weak but ready to attempt an acclimation hike under the guidance of Raju.
- Despite initial struggles, O'Brien finds strength and motivation to continue trekking and hunting as they reach sheep country.
- As physical challenges mount, O'Brien faces unexpected stomach issues, underscoring the rugged demands of high-altitude adventures.
Jim Shockey’s Wild Hunting Adventures: Nepal to Mozambique
- The narrator recalls humorous moments from a challenging hunting trip, including a cameraman having an unfortunate accident.
- Jim Shockey, a highly respected figure in the hunting community, provides insight and advice about the grueling challenges of hunting in remote locations.
- Discussion of a dramatic episode from Shockey's show where the villagers face threats from crocodiles, highlighting the harsh realities of their lives.
The Contrast of Outdoor Shows: A Critique of Hunting Television
- The narrator discusses the varying quality of hunting shows, contrasting sincere storytelling with overly commercialized productions.
- Recognition of Steve Rinella’s approach to hunting media as insightful and intellectually engaging, setting a high bar for outdoor television.
- Criticism of the outdoor channel’s business model, which allows for a wide range of content quality based on payment for airtime, leading to inconsistent viewer experiences.
Stephen Colbert's Bold Troll Against President Trump
- Stephen Colbert calls Trump a 'second-rate' figure after provoking a response from him.
- Colbert highlights the blurred lines between politics and entertainment in the media.
- Joe Scarborough resigns from the Republican Party, citing disillusionment with current political support.
Navigating Strange Times: Joe Rogan's View on Media and Consumer Products
- Joe Rogan expresses skepticism about the authenticity of media narratives, especially regarding Russia.
- He emphasizes the importance of choosing how to consume news without becoming overwhelmed.
- Rogan discusses consumer products like Yeti coolers and Zivia drinks, passionately highlighting their quality.
Joe Rogan's Hunting Trials in Texas: From Arrow to Animal Tracking
- Joe shares his experiences hunting in Texas and the challenges of tracking down wounded animals in thick cover.
- He discusses the importance of being able to locate animals after shooting, emphasizing their quick escapes and the need for better tracking methods.
- Rogan reflects on the behaviors of animals like deer that learn to avoid hunters after years of experience in their environment.
Joe Rogan's Grueling Journey to Hunt Sheep in Nepal: From Illness to Survival
- Rogan recounts his attempt to hunt sheep in Nepal while battling illness, illustrating the physical challenges faced at high altitudes.
- He shares a low point of his trip where he struggled with severe sickness while trekking with local porters and Sherpas.
- Despite his condition, he eventually succeeds in shooting a sheep and describes the cultural experience of eating all parts of the animal with the Nepalese guides.
Sebastian Junger's Exploration of Happiness Among Nepalese Porters
- The narrator discusses the infectious happiness of Nepalese porters who carry heavy loads in primitive conditions.
- Sebastian Junger's book 'Tribe' emphasizes the importance of struggle and hardship for true happiness.
- Personal reflections illustrate a contrast between the narrator's material comforts and the porters' resilience and joy in challenging circumstances.
Controversial Hunting Practices in War-Torn Nepal Justified
- The narrator describes a hunting trip in Nepal, highlighting its economic benefits for local communities post-civil war.
- Mon Badour, the main guide, shares experiences of hardship and survival, reinforcing the necessity of hunting for local resources.
- A broader ethical debate unfolds regarding hunting vs. photography in conservation, questioning the morality of each approach.