Elkshape

Dan dives solo into one of the most exciting times of elk season—the Peak Rut. In this episode, he breaks down proven tactics for calling in bulls when the woods are alive with bugles. From understanding bull behavior and timing your setups, to reading the herd dynamic and adjusting to hunting pressure, Dan shares practical strategies that hunters can put to use immediately. Whether you’re a seasoned elk hunter or chasing bugles for the first time, this episode gives you a sharper edge for those intense September days.

In this short and tactical episode, Dan breaks down the art of elk bugling—when to bugle, how to bugle, and why timing matters more than volume. From locating bulls to provoking a response, you’ll learn how to read the situation and apply the right call at the right moment. Whether you’re a new elk caller or sharpening your skill set, this quick-hit episode will give you proven strategies to help turn bugles into opportunities.

September has finally arrived, and with it comes the start of elk season. In this solo episode, Dan kicks off the September Series by breaking down his approach to hunting elk in the early season. From understanding elk behavior in the first days of September, to locating herds before peak rut activity, to strategies for calling, glassing, and moving through the mountains—this episode is all about stacking the odds in your favor when the season is fresh. Dan also shares the mindset and preparation that separates hunters who just show up from those who notch tags.

In this solo episode, Dan breaks down his full elk hunt game plan for the season. From how he’s preparing physically and mentally to the strategy he’ll deploy once boots hit the dirt, Dan walks through the details that make or break an elk hunt. He also shares how he intends to capture the entire experience on film—what gear he’ll bring, how he’ll balance hunting and filming in the backcountry, and why documenting the journey matters. This episode is a behind-the-scenes look at the planning, discipline, and focus required to chase elk at a high level while telling the story along the way.  

Chris Adams is a flight nurse who knows what it means to be ready when seconds count. In this conversation, Dan and Chris dig into what hunters often overlook when it comes to backcountry safety and medical preparedness. Chris shares the story behind developing a field-ready med kit built for hunters, the essential skills you should have before heading into the mountains, and why preparation is just as important as fitness and gear. This episode blends practical backcountry advice with life-saving insights from someone who’s been on the front lines when everything is on the line. @elkshape @rileystaton24

In this episode, we tackle the question: “Does elk hunting etiquette still exist?” From trailhead behavior and camp courtesy to calling tactics and respecting other hunters' space, we dive deep into the unwritten rules that once defined ethical elk hunting. Have we lost touch with the code of the backcountry? Or are these values still alive in the modern hunter? Tune in for a raw, honest discussion about the ethics, respect, and integrity that should guide every hunt—and why some of those traditions may be slipping away.

In this episode, Dan sits down with longtime friend and podcast legend Cody Rich, host of The Rich Outdoors. What starts as a conversation about elk hunting, business, and the grit it takes to live a purpose-driven life quickly turns into something much bigger. We dive into the lessons Cody has learned as an entrepreneur in the hunting industry, share some unforgettable hunting stories, and then peel back the curtain on a revolutionary new piece of technology that could change the way we all hunt. This isn’t your average gadget—it’s a tool built by hunters, for hunters, and it’s about to raise the bar on how we prepare, track, and execute in the backcountry. If you're passionate about the future of hunting, building a legacy, and sharpening every edge—this one’s for you. Link: https://ctznfirstresponse.com

In this episode, Dan sits down with Blake Nations, a seasoned Naval veteran, and Nick, a fellow archer and passionate outdoorsman, for a full-length conversation about life, discipline, and the mindset it takes to stay dialed in — both in the mountains and in everyday life. Blake shares powerful insights from his time in the Navy, and how that foundation of service, structure, and sacrifice has shaped the way he approaches training, bowhunting, and being a man of purpose. Alongside him, Nick brings a grounded and relatable voice to the table as they explore topics like motivation, showing up with intention, and the small daily decisions that make or break your goals. Of course, there’s also some elk hunting talk — and the kind of honest reflection you don’t get unless the mics are rolling and the trust is real.  

In this episode, Dan sits down with Drew Rouse, the outspoken and passionate founder of Reel Game Calls. Known for his bold confidence and his no-filter approach to calling elk, Drew brings the heat in a conversation that covers way more than just bugles and chuckles. They dive into:

In this episode, Dan and Josh sit down with the newest addition to the ElkShape Training team: Sage Gardner, a Colorado-based strength and conditioning coach and the mastermind behind our evolving fitness programming. We dive into:

In this episode, Dan and Riley recap their recent multi-state elk scouting trip that was all about long-term strategy, boots-on-the-ground intel, and putting in the work now to increase success later. They break down:

In this in-depth episode, Dan sits down with Mark Livesay, founder of Treeline Academy and one of the most respected digital scouting minds in western hunting. This is more than just elk tactics. It’s a full-on masterclass in how to find elk, how to prepare for success, and how to defend the future of public land hunting. They cover:

**BONUS POD** In this special and emotional episode, Dan sits down with Tyler Denim—firefighter, bowhunter, and close friend of ElkShape—for a raw debrief following the recent Coeur d’Alene fire tragedy, where two firefighters lost their lives in the line of duty. After filming a light-hearted episode together, Tyler was one of the first on scene responding to that devastating call. This conversation goes beyond hunting—it’s about the weight of the job, the impact of loss, and the role of faith, family, and purpose when life suddenly hits harder than expected. We also talk about how Tyler’s experience as a firefighter shapes his perspective on training, preparation, and living with intention—not just in the backcountry, but at home, with the people who matter most. This is a sobering episode—but one we believe every hunter, husband, father, and first responder needs to hear. @elkshape @elkshapegear @djfalconnn

Whether you're heading out for your first elk hunt or looking to sharpen your system before the season opens, this episode is your go-to guide. Dan and Riley are joined by Josh Crawford of ElkShape Training to dive deep into all things elk hunting—from tactics to terrain, and scouting to pack-outs. We break down: • Solo vs. partner hunting tactics – and when to use each • How to scout effectively and locate elk consistently • Tips on camp setup, choosing a location, and staying mobile • Meat care in the field – especially when you're deep and far from the truck • Where to find elk, what sign to look for, and how to adapt when the plan falls apart This episode covers the foundations of elk hunting with no fluff—just straight-up, field-tested advice from guys who live it every fall. If you're serious about being prepared for the backcountry, this is one you’ll want to bookmark and replay. @elkshape @elkshapetraining @rileystaton24 DIRK DURHAM PODCAST: https://tinyurl.com/2np767c7

In this episode, we sit down with Levi and Matt, the minds behind QuivAR, to talk all things bowhunting, business, and the changes rocking the hunting scene in Colorado. Spoiler: it’s not all good news for non-residents. We dive into their journey building the QuivAR app, a tool designed to help archers get the most out of their practice and performance, and how their passion for bowhunting shaped the brand from the ground up. We also cover some bigger topics—faith, family, fitness, and what it looks like to pursue your purpose in a world that’s constantly shifting. These guys are gritty, mission-driven, and unapologetically dialed in. Whether you’re a hunter, entrepreneur, or someone just trying to live with more intention—this one’s got something for you. @elkshape @quivar.app  

In Part 2 of our Bear Bender series, Dan sits down with Bill Vanderheyden, founder of Iron Will Outfitters, for a deep dive into our Saskatchewan bear hunt with Eastern Sky Guiding Service—and so much more. We cover:• The highs and lessons from Bill’s latest bear hunting experience• A full breakdown of his elk hunting film—rewatching it together and going full director’s cut mode• Technical gear talk, shot decisions, mental game, and what really goes through your head when a bull steps into range• Insights from Bill on archery, backcountry gear, and balancing the grind with real life Whether you're an elk junkie, a gearhead, or just want an inside look at how elite hunters think and operate in the field, this episode delivers.

In this episode, Dan and Riley sit down to recap their full Bear Bender adventure, an epic spring bear hunting trip that took them from the remote bush of northern Alberta to the rugged Duck Mountains of eastern Saskatchewan. They break down the first leg of the trip with Prairie North Outfitters, where Dan filled both of his tags—including a giant boar—and Riley punched his first-ever archery bear tag in one of the most unforgettable hunts of his life. Then they dive into the second half of the journey with Eastern Sky Guiding, where Dan tagged his biggest black bear to date. The guys were joined by Bill from Iron Will Outfitters and the Bear Hunt Giveaway winner, Cody Sabol, making for an awesome camp and even better memories. From the highs, the lows, the lessons, and the wild moments in between, this is a full behind-the-scenes breakdown of a trip they won’t soon forget. Grab a cup of coffee—or get in some windshield time—and catch up with Dan and Riley as they share the real story behind Bear Bende

In this episode, Dan and Riley sit down with Darcy Ledrew, owner and head guide of Prairie North Outfitters, to recap an unforgettable bear hunt in the wilds of northern Alberta. This one’s special—Riley tagged his first-ever archery black bear, and Dan punched both of his tags, including a true Alberta giant. But this conversation goes beyond the hunt. We dive into Darcy’s story: how he went from passionate hunter to full-time outfitter, what it takes to guide in the remote north, and the challenges and rewards of chasing both black bears and world-class Alberta whitetails. We talk archery setups, baiting strategies, the mental side of hunting, and what keeps Darcy fired up season after season.  Whether you're dreaming of a Canadian bear hunt or just love hearing from people who live this lifestyle full-time, this episode brings the heat.  **Plus, how YOU can come hunt with Elkshape for Alberta Spring Bear in 2026. You don't want to miss this. @elkshape @Prairie_north_outfitters https://www.prairien

In this episode, we flip the script and bring you a raw, behind-the-scenes conversation between Dan and Riley. We dive into what it truly means to be “locked in”—not just in the elk woods, but in life. From faith and family to fitness and bowhunting, this episode explores how staying focused and intentional in every area of life builds not just better hunters—but better men. It’s personal. It’s real. And it just might challenge you to ask the question yourself: Are you locked in? #elkshape insta: @rileystaton24