The MeatEater Podcast – Episode 654 Summary: Fishing in a Tornado, Otter Sex, and The Price is Right

In Episode 654 of The MeatEater Podcast, titled "MeatEater Radio Live! Fishing in a Tornado, Otter Sex, and The Price is Right," host Spencer Newhart leads a dynamic live show from MeatEater HQ in Bozeman, Montana. The episode is packed with engaging segments, including interviews, interactive games, educational discussions, and insightful conversations about outdoor living.

1. Introducing the Buck Balm Gift (00:00 - 06:08)

The episode kicks off with Spencer presenting a unique gift to his co-hosts, Corinne Schneider and Corey Calkins—buck balm made from deer tallow. Spencer shares the process of rendering the fat from an Idaho buck he hunted, resulting in a versatile product infused with beeswax, yarrow oil, and essential oils.

Notable Quote:

• Spencer Newhart (04:02): “This is the deer tallow. It's beeswax, it's yarrow infused oil... you can apply this stuff to your lips, dry skin, fresh tattoo, your leather boots, leather purses, whatever you want to put this on. And it's food grade, so this is great.”

The hosts discuss the potential uses of the balm, emphasizing its practicality and the sustainable use of the entire animal. Phil inquires about the quantity of fat, revealing an impressive 81 ounces, and the conversation highlights the camaraderie and creativity in utilizing game products.

2. Interview with Brian Johnson: Surviving a Tornado While Fishing (06:08 - 18:32)

The show transitions to an intense interview with Brian Johnson, who recounts his harrowing experience of being caught in an EF3 tornado while bass fishing in Texas. Brian describes the sudden shift in weather conditions, the unexpected formation of the tornado, and the sheer force of nature that turned a peaceful fishing trip into a life-threatening ordeal.

Notable Quotes:

• Corinne Schneider (07:56): “I was in the middle of a tornado... I cried out to Jesus and he gave me a peace and said, it's going to be okay.”
• Brian Johnson (09:45): “It blew my truck off of the levee. It blew my buddy's truck off of the levee. It rolled another truck.”

The interview delves into the emotional and physical challenges faced during the storm, including Brian’s struggle to free himself from the overturned boat and the miraculous survival of both him and his dog. The segment underscores themes of resilience, faith, and the unpredictable power of nature.

3. MeatEater's Price is Right Game Segment (23:45 - 43:47)

In a lively and interactive segment, Spencer introduces a "Price is Right" game where contestants guess the prices of various outdoor-related items. The first game features a luxurious one-night stay in the Governor's Suite of the Bass Pro Shops Pyramid, with close guesses sparking excitement.

Notable Quotes:

• Spencer Newhart (25:52): “This is the nicest room that they offer... with a king bed, two queen beds, three bathrooms, two air tubs, three fireplaces, and a fully stocked kitchen.”
• Spencer Newhart (27:57): “Corinne was $300 off. She gets the first point now.”

The game continues with items like a bison cheeseburger from Ted's Montana Grill, ice fishing gear from Facebook Marketplace, a cattle ranch in northern Kansas, and a scoop of minnows from HR One Stop in Wabay, South Dakota. Contestants Corinne and Corey showcase their knowledge and luck, with Corinne emerging as the final winner. The segment combines humor, competitive spirit, and practical outdoor knowledge, engaging both live participants and the audience.

4. Educational Segment: Sea Otter Mating Behaviors (51:14 - 58:22)

Corinne Schneider leads an eye-opening discussion about the aggressive mating behaviors of sea otters. Drawing from insights provided by Heather D'Youville of the Tlingit tribe, Corinne explains the physical and often violent interactions during sea otter courtship.

Notable Quotes:

• Corinne Schneider (52:12): “Males are known to force mating... grab her with his paws and clamp down hard on her nose with his teeth.”
• Corey Calkins (53:51): “Fredrick says we need to start having more talks about what the crew has cooked recently.”

The segment covers the risks faced by female sea otters during mating, including injuries and potential death from trauma or drowning. Additionally, Corinne shares fascinating facts about sea otter fur, highlighting its unparalleled density and the craftsmanship of Heather’s sea otter scarf business. This educational piece blends biological information with personal anecdotes, adding depth to the conversation on marine life.

5. Interview with Anna Borgman: Mastering Butchery and Being a Good Customer (58:22 - 72:36)

The final interview features butcher Anna Borgman, who provides expert advice on effective butchery practices and customer etiquette. Anna discusses her extensive experience in processing thousands of animals, emphasizing the importance of cleanliness, having a plan, and respecting the meat to ensure quality outcomes.

Notable Quotes:

• Brian Johnson (60:15): “The bigger the better... smaller animals are harder to get anything substantial.”
• Anna Borgman (68:17): “Good customers keep things clean... and having a plan.”

Anna also shares her venture, Chaos Farms, which includes innovative ideas like using goats for weed control and expanding into mobile slaughter and custom processing. The conversation highlights the symbiotic relationship between hunters and butchers, stressing how thoughtful preparation and communication can enhance the quality of harvested game.

6. Listener Feedback and Q&A (42:46 - 76:18)

Throughout the episode, hosts engage with listener questions and feedback. Topics range from hunting etiquette on public lands to navigating fishing regulations across state borders. Chester Floyd provides thoughtful responses to a listener's dilemma about shared hunting spots, emphasizing mutual respect and ethical hunting practices.

Notable Quotes:

• Spencer Newhart (44:30): “Do both of those things. The best hunters, they have a plan... it's probably going to be a mix of private and a mix of public.”
• Chester Floyd (49:11): “I think it's pretty poor friendship... it's a team thing here.”

The interactive Q&A fosters a sense of community, offering practical solutions and encouraging responsible outdoor behavior. Additionally, the hosts share their recent culinary endeavors, showcasing the practical applications of butchery and the enjoyment of game meat.

Conclusion

Episode 654 of The MeatEater Podcast delivers a compelling blend of survival stories, interactive fun, educational content, and expert interviews. From surviving a tornado while fishing to understanding the complex mating behaviors of sea otters, and mastering butchery skills, the episode offers valuable insights for outdoor enthusiasts. The engaging games and heartfelt discussions create an immersive experience, making this episode a must-listen for anyone passionate about hunting, fishing, and the natural world.

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