Wild Things & Wild Places

What Is a Conservation Easement? Kerry Schultz with the Green River Valley Jackson Hole Land Trust Explains

In this episode of the Wild Things & Wild Places podcast, hosts Joy Faigl, Janet Crofts, and Chris Steffen sit down with Kerry Schultz, Program Director of the Green River Valley Jackson Hole Land Trust. Kerry breaks down the concept of conservation easements, which are legal agreements between private landowners and a qualified entity such as a land trust to permanently protect the land from development. She explains how these agreements play a vital role in conservation, particularly on private lands that are essential for wildlife habitats and migration corridors. The conversation dives into examples of easements in Wyoming, the process and challenges of putting them in place, and the financial side of things, including funding sources and potential tax benefits for landowners. Kerry and the hosts also highlight how conservation easements not only safeguard landscapes but also provide lasting benefits to ecosystems and communities alike. You won’t believe how much time will pass just listening to this conversation on conservation easements — it’s that engaging!  The episode wraps up with some personal hunting plans and a look ahead at upcoming Muley Fanatic Foundation events, tying together the importance of conservation with the culture and lifestyle of those who cherish the outdoors. 

Summer Projects 2025 Has MFF Working Hard for Mule Deer

In this episode of Wild Things and Wild Places, Janet, Chris, and Joey from the Muley Fanatic Foundation recap their busy and impactful summer of 2025. The team took part in fawn captures in the Wyoming Range to support ongoing mule deer monitoring efforts, gathering critical data on population health. They also tackled invasive species and habitat restoration through Cheatgrass spraying near Rock Springs and Juniper removal south of town—both essential to preserving quality mule deer habitat. Additional efforts included sagebrush mowing in Kemmer, Wyoming, where the goal was to improve forage conditions by promoting the growth of new, nutritious plants. The group also previewed the upcoming Porcupine Creek project, which will reduce conifer encroachment in Aspen stands through prescribed burns. Janet shared updates on a vegetation study with the Monteith Shop, focusing on mule deer browsing habits in the Big Piney area by analyzing vegetation and fecal samples. The episode wraps up with a look ahead at future restoration work and newly allocated funding...reinforcing the Muley Fanatic Foundation’s dedication to conservation and habitat health across Wyoming.

Bear Tracks & Good Company: A Conversation with Jessica Evans

In this laid-back and personal episode of Wild Things & Wild Places, we welcome Jessica Evans...hunter, business owner, and all-around outdoor enthusiast from Rock Springs, Wyoming. Jessica pulls up a chair and shares her story in a way that feels like you're right there beside her in the field, on the mountain, or at the truck tailgate after a long day outdoors. She walks us through her early memories of hunting with her parents, how she found her own path in the sport after college, and the thrill of her first antelope hunt. But it’s not just about the harvest—it’s about what you learn along the way. Jessica opens up about her experience diving into predator hunting and navigating the backlash that sometimes comes with being a woman who hunts, especially on social media. We also dig into her side hustle-turned-business, Whiskey Goats—a brand that started as a nickname and has grown into a storefront and lifestyle. Jessica talks about how time spent on public lands shaped her love for Wyoming's wild places, and how that connection fuels everything she does. This conversation goes beyond gear and tags... it's about the deeper meaning of the hunt. From emotional highs to unforgettable moments in the field, and a lot of laughs...the group reflects on what makes hunting such a powerful and personal experience.  If you love real conversations about hunting, conservation, and the grit behind the glory, this episode is for you. Don't miss out on furthering the journey with Wild Things & Wild Places. Become a member of the Muley Fanatic Foundation and help make a difference. Join an organization that gets things done. Find out more here.  

Public Lands in Public Hands: Important Message

In this episode of the MFF Podcast, the focus is on the controversial topic of selling public lands, a pressing issue in Wyoming and other Western states. The special guest is Jess Johnson, Government Affairs Director of the Wyoming Wildlife Federation (WWF), who will soon be heading to Washington, D.C. to represent Wyoming.  The discussion underscores the potential catastrophic impact the proposed sale of 2 to 3 million acres of public land has on outdoor recreationists, hunters, campers, and the wildlife that depends on these lands. The bill's vague and broad language, lack of community consultation, and expedited timeline have raised significant concerns among stakeholders, prompting a call to action for public opposition and political engagement. Expect a battle as Wyoming's voice aims to be strongly heard in opposition to this risky endeavor. The podcast also highlights the importance of respectful, professional activism, urging listeners to contact their local and national representatives and to remain vigilant and engaged in the political process to protect public lands.   The episode encourages continued pressure on elected officials from all angles, emphasizing the non-partisan and broadly supported nature of the fight against public land sales. Don't miss out on furthering the journey with Wild Things & Wild Places. Become a member of the Muley Fanatic Foundation and help make a difference. Join an organization that gets things done. Find out more here.  

New Voices, Same Mission: Wild Things & Wild Places Welcomes a New Hosting Crew

This episode of Wild Things & Wild Places marks the first with our new crew! While Josh is off doing important work in D.C., the Muley Fanatic Foundation podcast lives on and it’s in great hands. Meet your new hosts: Joey Faigl, Chris Steffen, and Janet Crofts—a trio of longtime MFF champions who bring deep knowledge, big laughs, and a whole lot of heart to the mic. In this transition episode, they reflect on Josh’s impact, share some behind-the-scenes banter, and give a glimpse of what’s ahead for the podcast. Expect all the things you’ve come to love: honest conversations, conservation updates, and authentic voices from the field... plus a little more goofiness as this new crew finds their rhythm. They’ll also dig into upcoming MFF events like the annual calendar raffle, new outdoor projects, and a women’s-only fundraiser you won’t want to miss. Tune in. Laugh a little. Learn a lot. Don’t forget to subscribe, share your thoughts, and be part of the show at muleyfanatic.org.