Truth From The Stand Deer Hunting Podcast · Clint Campbell

EP.452: Finding Gratitude In The Grind | Chasing Mature Bucks | Jacob Sklenar

·1 hr 30 min·5 clips

Jacob admits his chase for a giant buck was 95% challenge, but 5% ego—forcing hard conversations with himself.

Host Clint Campbell welcomes Jacob Sklenar, a returning guest and experienced hunter, to discuss finding gratitude in the demanding pursuit of mature bucks. The conversation explores how personal life stages and significant events reshape one's perspective on hunting. Sklenar recently got married and has been introducing his wife, Caitlin, to shooting and glassing for deer. He recounts chasing a "once in a lifetime" buck last season, which led him to analyze his motivations and confront a small element of ego in the pursuit. Sklenar describes how sharing hunts with his wife, like watching a small buck below their stand, rekindled his original passion for learning and nature. His goals have shifted from targeting only giant deer to being open to harvesting mature bucks in the 130- and 140-inch class to provide for his family. Campbell parallels this, reflecting on his own challenging season living out of a truck to hunt and questioning if he'd do it without a hunting podcast. He realized a growing gratitude for simply having the opportunity to pursue such a singular, difficult experience. The discussion turns to mindset, with both agreeing that focusing solely on the outcome can be detrimental during a tough chase. They discuss how high-stakes endeavors often require ferocious passion, which can accidentally intertwine with one's identity. Sklenar references his friend, legendary wrestler Ben Askren, who recently underwent a double lung transplant. He describes Askren's remarkably pragmatic and optimistic mindset during recovery, focusing only on daily progress. Askren reportedly felt self-pity for only five seconds post-surgery before committing to the work ahead, stating his situation would improve because he would put in the effort. Campbell notes this mindset emphasizes that a single bad decision or moment does not define the final outcome, as there are always opportunities to pivot. The episode's tone is reflective and conversational, blending personal storytelling with philosophical insights on perseverance. Listeners who enjoy introspective discussions on hunting psychology, life balance, and resilience will appreciate this episode. Those seeking strictly tactical advice on gear or deer patterns might find it less directly applicable.

As heard by us

A deer-hunting conversation about patience, gratitude, and the cost of chasing perfect outcomes.

This deer-hunting conversation stays with the parts that rarely make the highlight reel: patience, restraint, and the discipline it takes to keep making sound calls when the conditions are messy.

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Why you'd press play

For when you want deer-hunting talk that ties a missed buck and a tough sit to how you handle hard days.

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