Podcast
Midwest Flyways Podcast
Hosted by Midwest Flyways · EN
Duck Hunting and Goose Hunting is in our blood and we live it everyday! The Midwest Flyways Podcast is an authentic take on waterfowl hunting from Midwest Flyways. Duck and goose hunting has continued to evolve throughout the years and we aim to connect duck hunting traditions with the future of waterfowling. If you‘re passionate about ducks and geese then come hang with Joey Vassallo and Cal Ness as they talk duck hunting, goose hunting and everything else in between.
49episodes
Episodes
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Sports Guyz Only; Gentleman’s Sweep
Jun 1901:07:10Tap to summarizeThis week on Sports Guyz Only, the boys kick things off with a birthday controversy, concussion counts, aging athlete problems, and a debate over whether anyone under 30 can truly appreciate how quickly the body starts betraying you. Cal celebrates another trip around the sun, Gavin accidentally misses the birthday by a day, and the crew somehow ends up discussing CTE before they've even touched sports. From there, it's a full playoff recap as the guys break down the Carolina Hurricanes' dominant Stanley Cup run. They discuss Jordan Staal's unbelievable playoff performance at age 37, whether he's one of the most underrated players of the last two decades, Rod Brind'Amour's growing Carolina legacy, and how the Hurricanes put together one of the most dominant postseason runs of the modern NHL era. Plus, Taylor Hall's redemption story, Brandon Bussey's improbable Finals debut, and why Vegas may have finally run into the one team built to beat them. The conversation shifts to the NBA Finals, where the Knicks capture their first championship in over 50 years. The crew debates whether it was the most competitive gentleman's sweep ever, questions the Spurs' late-game coaching decisions, and dives into Jalen Brunson's place in Knicks history. There's also plenty of discussion about Victor Wembanyama's increasingly villainous reputation, Mike Brown's coaching redemption arc, and whether Minnesota may eventually need a new voice leading Anthony Edwards and the Timberwolves. Plus: World Cup excitement and Messi's final international run NHL tax advantages and why Florida keeps attracting stars The greatest "what if" playoff scenarios Steve Kerr's all-time unfortunate naming decision Shohei Ohtani gambling conspiracy theories Vikings frustrations and Brian O'Neill debates A chaotic sports trivia showdown that ends with Nathaniel taking the crown As always, it's championship reactions, wild sports hypotheticals, old-man complaints, and enough hockey talk to make Gavin happy for at least one week. Thanks so much for listening to Sports Guyz Only and be sure to subscribe and review! Join Flyways Hunt Club and get 1 month free! Flyways Hunt Club New Waterfowl Film out now! Out West | Waterfowl Hunting in Montana Stay comfortable, dry and warm: First Lite (Code MWF20) Go to OnXHunt to be better prepared for your hunt: OnX Learn more about better ammo: Migra Ammunitions Weatherby Sorix: Weatherby Support Conservation: DU (Code: Flyways) Stop saying "Huh?" with better hearing protection: Soundgear Live Free: Turtlebox Add motion to your spread: Flashback Better Merch: /SHOP
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The Domestic Duck Problem
Jun 1800:49:46Tap to summarizeThis week on the Midwest Flyways Podcast, the guys kick things off with a discussion about summer plans, UFC legends, classic fighting movies, and why getting older apparently means everyone is tearing something in their foot. Then the conversation shifts into waterfowl biology as the crew dives into a fascinating discussion about domestic mallards, game farm releases, and whether decades of human interference may be having a larger impact on wild duck populations than many hunters realize. From nesting success rates to the spread of domestic genetics across North America, it's one of the most thought-provoking conversations the podcast has had in a while. The guys also tackle another submission to the Flyways Department of Grievances, featuring one of the most painful public land hunting stories imaginable. If you've ever had someone set up way too close, invite themselves into your hunt, or completely destroy a morning in the marsh, this one is for you. To wrap things up, the crew battles through another rough round of Say What?, covering everything from the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and avian botulism to teal nesting habits, swan calls, and waterfowl history. Topics Covered: Summer plans and UFC talk Domestic mallards and game farm ducks Waterfowl nesting success rates The spread of domestic duck genetics Giant Canada geese and changing populations Public land hunting etiquette Flyways Department of Grievances Migratory Bird Treaty Act history Avian botulism and waterfowl trivia Another chaotic round of Say What? Thanks for listening to the Midwest Flyways Podcast and be sure to subscribe and review! Join Flyways Hunt Club and get 1 month free! Flyways Hunt Club New Waterfowl Film out now! Out West | Waterfowl Hunting in Montana Stay comfortable, dry and warm: First Lite (Code MWF20) Go to OnXHunt to be better prepared for your hunt: OnX Learn more about better ammo: Migra Ammunitions Weatherby Sorix: Weatherby Support Conservation: DU (Code: Flyways) Stop saying "Huh?" with better hearing protection: Soundgear Live Free: Turtlebox Add motion to your spread: Flashback Better Merch: /SHOP
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History Lesson: Duck Dogs
Jun 1600:12:43Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Ten Minute Tuesday, the guys dive into the fascinating history of duck dogs and the breeds that helped shape waterfowl hunting in North America. From the mixed farm dogs, spaniels, and setters used by early hunters to the legendary origins of the Chesapeake Bay Retriever and the rise of the Labrador Retriever, this episode explores how man's best friend became one of the most important tools in the duck blind. The conversation covers the famous shipwreck that helped create the Chesapeake Bay Retriever, the brutal conditions these dogs endured during the market hunting era, and why Chessies earned a reputation for toughness, independence, and grit. The guys also discuss how Labradors rose to dominate the retriever world, the influence of field trials and hunt tests, and the unique retriever culture that developed throughout the Midwest. Whether you're a lifelong dog handler, a waterfowl hunter with a favorite hunting partner, or simply interested in the history of sporting dogs, this episode offers a look back at the remarkable relationship between hunters and the dogs that have been retrieving birds for more than two centuries. Join Flyways Hunt Club and get 1 month free! Flyways Hunt Club New Waterfowl Film out now! Out West | Waterfowl Hunting in Montana Stay comfortable, dry and warm: First Lite (Code MWF20) Go to OnXHunt to be better prepared for your hunt: OnX Learn more about better ammo: Migra Ammunitions Weatherby Sorix: Weatherby Support Conservation: DU (Code: Flyways) Stop saying "Huh?" with better hearing protection: Soundgear Live Free: Turtlebox Add motion to your spread: Flashback Better Merch: /SHOP
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Sports Guyz Only; Daddy’s Money
Jun 1201:04:23Tap to summarizeThis week on Sports Guyz Only, the studio is officially becoming an orthopedic clinic. Nathaniel shows up in a boot, Cal is dealing with the exact same injury, and the guys spend the first part of the show proving that stretching after age 30 might actually matter. From kickball injuries to birthday plans, expensive steak dinners, and Carter nearly getting denied entry to a fancy restaurant in a Columbia fishing shirt, the nonsense starts early. Then it's time for sports. The crew breaks down an absolutely electric Stanley Cup Final, including the Hurricanes and Knights delivering one of the wildest playoff series in recent memory, complete with overtime thrillers and three goals in 39 seconds. The debate continues as the guys make their championship predictions and discuss why Vegas remains public enemy number one for hockey fans everywhere. On the NBA side, the conversation shifts to the Spurs' Finals run, Victor Wembanyama's ridiculous defensive impact, whether the Spurs are in trouble, and how San Antonio may already be building the next dynasty. Plus, the boys revisit some all-time NBA debates, including Tim Duncan's legacy, the most underrated players ever, and why prime Shaq remains one of the most terrifying athletes in sports history. Plus: Vikings quarterback drama and the "Tyler Murray" controversy Brian O'Neill foot races and offensive linemen athleticism High school hockey rivalries and the legendary "Daddy's Money" chant Brandon Aiyuk vs. the 49ers front office Giannis trade rumors heating up World Cup predictions and Messi's final run Why tennis may finally have its next great era As always, it's sports takes, playoff overreactions, locker-room banter, and a shocking amount of discussion about injuries, rich kids, and offensive linemen running 5.1 forties. Join Flyways Hunt Club and get 1 month free! Flyways Hunt Club New Waterfowl Film out now! Out West | Waterfowl Hunting in Montana Stay comfortable, dry and warm: First Lite (Code MWF20) Go to OnXHunt to be better prepared for your hunt: OnX Learn more about better ammo: Migra Ammunitions Weatherby Sorix: Weatherby Support Conservation: DU (Code: Flyways) Stop saying "Huh?" with better hearing protection: Soundgear Live Free: Turtlebox Add motion to your spread: Flashback Better Merch: /SHOP
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Josh Bodkin; Chasing Passion
Jun 1100:51:21Tap to summarizeCheck out Chasing Passion here: https://chasingpassion.com This week on the Midwest Flyways Podcast, the guys sit down with outdoor photographer, filmmaker, entrepreneur, and Chasing Passion Magazine founder Josh Bodkin. Born in England, raised in Minnesota, and now calling Florida home, Josh shares his incredible journey from fishing guide to full-time creative, building Solar Wave Media, documenting adventures around the world, and creating a life centered around purpose rather than paychecks. The conversation dives deep into entrepreneurship, storytelling, fatherhood, and what it really means to chase a passion. Josh opens up about the challenges of running a creative business, why learning to say "no" became one of the most important lessons of his career, and how becoming a father completely changed his perspective on success. The crew also explores the connection between hunting, fishing, conservation, and storytelling. From Florida's red tide crisis and Everglades restoration efforts to Minnesota wetlands and waterfowl habitat, the conversation highlights how some of the strongest advocates for conservation are often the people who spend the most time outdoors. Whether you're building a business, pursuing a passion project, or simply trying to create a more meaningful life, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and perspective from someone who has spent years documenting people who live life to the fullest. Topics Covered: Josh Bodkin's journey from Florida fishing guide to media entrepreneur Building Solar Wave Media and Chasing Passion Magazine Entrepreneurship and the realities of creative work The power of saying "no" Fatherhood and redefining success Adventure, storytelling, and outdoor culture Conservation through hunting and fishing Florida red tide and Everglades restoration Why outdoor enthusiasts are often conservationists first Living a life driven by curiosity and purpose Thanks for listening to the Midwest Flyways Podcast and be sure to subscribe and review! Join Flyways Hunt Club and get 1 month free! Flyways Hunt Club New Waterfowl Film out now! Out West | Waterfowl Hunting in Montana Stay comfortable, dry and warm: First Lite (Code MWF20) Go to OnXHunt to be better prepared for your hunt: OnX Learn more about better ammo: Migra Ammunitions Weatherby Sorix: Weatherby Support Conservation: DU (Code: Flyways) Stop saying "Huh?" with better hearing protection: Soundgear Live Free: Turtlebox Add motion to your spread: Flashback Better Merch: /SHOP
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Sports Guyz Only; Pass Rush Hell
Jun 501:00:40Tap to summarizeThis week on Sports Guyz Only, the guys are all back in the studio and immediately dive into one of the biggest debates in sports: would you choose championships or an extra $60 million? The conversation starts with the NBA Finals and quickly turns into a full-blown discussion about Victor Wembanyama, the Spurs' future dynasty potential, and why some of the crew still can't stand watching OKC basketball. From there, the boys debate whether modern athletes care more about winning or getting paid, using everyone from Anthony Edwards and Jalen Brunson to Damian Lillard and Jeff Teague as examples. Later, the Minnesota sports suffering continues as the crew breaks down the Wild, Vegas' unfair expansion success, the Twins' never-ending frustrations, and one of the most unexpected debates in podcast history: whether the Wild logo is actually a bear, a wolf, or somehow a beaver. Plus: The Knicks' playoff magic and Jalen Brunson's clutch gene Whether Anthony Edwards needs a veteran superstar to challenge him Giannis trade scenarios for the Timberwolves Myles Garrett joining the Rams Aaron Donald unretirement rumors Caleb Williams, the Madden Curse, and NFL offseason chaos As always, it's playoff overreactions, sports therapy, hot takes, and complete nonsense that somehow turns into a sports podcast. Join Flyways Hunt Club and get 1 month free! Flyways Hunt Club New Waterfowl Film out now! Out West | Waterfowl Hunting in Montana Stay comfortable, dry and warm: First Lite (Code MWF20) Go to OnXHunt to be better prepared for your hunt: OnX Learn more about better ammo: Migra Ammunitions Weatherby Sorix: Weatherby Support Conservation: DU (Code: Flyways) Stop saying "Huh?" with better hearing protection: Soundgear Live Free: Turtlebox Add motion to your spread: Flashback Better Merch: /SHOP
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Ticks, Ducks & Trouble
Jun 400:39:34Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Midwest Flyways Podcast, the crew dives into a recent topic in waterfowl hunting right now: the federal warning against using non-approved copper shot for waterfowl. What does it mean for hunters, ammunition manufacturers, and the future of non-toxic shot? The guys break down the controversy and share their thoughts. From there, the conversation takes a wild turn through microplastics, ticks, conservation history, and some of the strangest outdoor headlines making the rounds. Along the way, they debate the most revolutionary companies and innovations in waterfowl hunting—from semi-auto shotguns and Herders catalogs to Bigfoot decoys and spinning-wing technology. Plus, another competitive round of "Say What?" puts waterfowl knowledge to the test with trivia covering everything from record-setting duck calls and duck harvest statistics to diving depths, breeding ranges, and conservation history. To wrap things up, the crew talks vintage goose hunting gear, bucket-list waterfowl species from New Zealand and Australia, and revisits the now-infamous foot race that left one host wearing a boot. As always, expect laughs, hunting history, waterfowl trivia, and plenty of Midwest Flyways banter. Topics Covered: Federal warning on copper shot for waterfowl hunters Non-toxic ammunition regulations Microplastics and outdoor conversations Most influential companies in waterfowl hunting history Herters catalogs and hunting culture Decoys and hunting collectibles Waterfowl trivia: ducks, divers, harvest numbers, and more Exotic waterfowl species from New Zealand and Australia The race, the injury, and the aftermath Thanks for listening and be sure to subscribe to the Midwest Flyways Podcast! Join Flyways Hunt Club and get 1 month free! Flyways Hunt Club New Waterfowl Film out now! Out West | Waterfowl Hunting in Montana Stay comfortable, dry and warm: First Lite (Code MWF20) Go to OnXHunt to be better prepared for your hunt: OnX Learn more about better ammo: Migra Ammunitions Weatherby Sorix: Weatherby Support Conservation: DU (Code: Flyways) Stop saying "Huh?" with better hearing protection: Soundgear Live Free: Turtlebox Add motion to your spread: Flashback Better Merch: /SHOP
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History Lesson, The Herter’s Legend
Jun 200:12:20Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Ten Minute Tuesday, the guys take a deep dive into the fascinating history of Herter’s—the legendary catalog company that helped shape Midwest hunting culture for generations. Long before online shopping, big-box outdoor retailers, and social media influencers, hunters eagerly waited for the annual Herter’s catalog to arrive in the mail, packed with everything from duck decoys and calls to boats, waders, and hunting camp essentials. The episode explores the story of founder George Leonard Herter, whose larger-than-life marketing style turned a small Minnesota sporting goods business into one of the most influential hunting brands in America. From the famous “Model Perfect” slogan and outrageous product claims to the rise of Herter’s decoys, boats, and hunting gear, the guys break down how the company changed waterfowl hunting forever and became a cornerstone of Midwest outdoor culture. They also discuss the lasting legacy of Herter’s, why old catalogs have become collector’s items, and how many of the marketing tactics and gear debates hunters see today trace their roots back to the original hunting empire built in Waseca, Minnesota. If you love waterfowl history, vintage hunting gear, and the stories behind the brands that shaped the sport, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Thanks so much for listening and be sure to subscribe and review! Join Flyways Hunt Club and get 1 month free! Flyways Hunt Club New Waterfowl Film out now! Out West | Waterfowl Hunting in Montana Stay comfortable, dry and warm: First Lite (Code MWF20) Go to OnXHunt to be better prepared for your hunt: OnX Learn more about better ammo: Migra Ammunitions Weatherby Sorix: Weatherby Support Conservation: DU (Code: Flyways) Stop saying "Huh?" with better hearing protection: Soundgear Live Free: Turtlebox Add motion to your spread: Flashback Better Merch: /SHOP
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Sports Guyz Only; Playoff Problems
May 2901:02:53Tap to summarizeThis week on Sports Guyz Only, the crew dives headfirst into playoff season as hockey heartbreak and NBA drama take center stage. The guys break down what went wrong for the Colorado Avalanche, whether the Minnesota Wild are actually closer to contention than people think, and what moves need to happen this offseason to finally bring a Stanley Cup to Minnesota. On the hardwood, the conversation gets heated as the Knicks continue their surprising playoff run, the Timberwolves face tough questions about chemistry and leadership, and the crew debates whether Anthony Edwards has what it takes to become the franchise-changing superstar Minnesota desperately needs. Is Julius Randle the problem? Did the Karl-Anthony Towns trade really make sense? And how much does team chemistry matter compared to pure star power? Plus: Why Connor McDavid’s next contract could reshape the NHL The case for blowing up parts of the Wild roster SGA’s free-throw numbers and the NBA’s flopping problem Prime Shaq vs. Jokic, Wemby, and every modern big man The value of coaches, leadership, and locker-room culture NFL arrests, off-field issues, and whether teams should do more to keep players out of trouble The biggest athletes who bet on themselves—and lost As always, it’s sports debates, questionable takes, playoff overreactions, and the kind of conversations that only happen when the Guyz get together. Thanks so much for listening and be sure to subscribe and review! Join Flyways Hunt Club and get 1 month free! Flyways Hunt Club New Waterfowl Film out now! Out West | Waterfowl Hunting in Montana Stay comfortable, dry and warm: First Lite (Code MWF20) Go to OnXHunt to be better prepared for your hunt: OnX Learn more about better ammo: Migra Ammunitions Weatherby Sorix: Weatherby Support Conservation: DU (Code: Flyways) Stop saying "Huh?" with better hearing protection: Soundgear Live Free: Turtlebox Add motion to your spread: Flashback Better Merch: /SHOP
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Banded Birds and Hunting Banter
May 2800:39:51Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the Midwest Flyways Podcast, the crew dives into everything from replica duck bands and waterfowl conservation to predator management and bizarre wildlife facts. The guys swap stories about banded birds, discuss the rising costs of replica bands for mounts and lanyards, and debate the realities of predator control for ducks, turkeys, and other nesting birds. They also break down fascinating coyote behavior, wolf population controversies, and the “circle of life” moments every outdoorsman witnesses eventually. Of course, it wouldn’t be Midwest Flyways without plenty of off-the-rails banter — including Bad Santa discussions, James Bond debates, Patrick Star references, and Joey trying to claw his way back in the standings as the episode wraps up with another round of Say What?!, featuring record-setting ducks, mourning doves, canvasbacks, and more. If you love hunting culture, waterfowl conservation, hilarious tangents, and hanging out with friends talking outdoors, this one’s for you. Thanks so much for listening and be sure to subscribe and review! Join Flyways Hunt Club and get 1 month free! Flyways Hunt Club New Waterfowl Film out now! Out West | Waterfowl Hunting in Montana Stay comfortable, dry and warm: First Lite (Code MWF20) Go to OnXHunt to be better prepared for your hunt: OnX Learn more about better ammo: Migra Ammunitions Weatherby Sorix: Weatherby Support Conservation: DU (Code: Flyways) Stop saying "Huh?" with better hearing protection: Soundgear Live Free: Turtlebox Add motion to your spread: Flashback Better Merch: /SHOP
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