I Survived The Wild Outdoors
Brad Mathewson hosts a podcast where outdoorsmen and women share their courageous tales of survival. Listeners are invited to submit their own survival stories. The show is hosted on Acast.
Episodes
Lightning in the Spring Woods
Just 21 years old, Jake Bussey has already built a life most hunters only dream about. From guiding Turkey hunts since high school to crafting custom calls from the age of 13, his passion for chasing long beards runs deep. But during a hunt in Michigan on May 16, 2026, that passion was tested in a way a few outdoorsman will ever experience. When a fast moving storm rolled in, what began as a routi
The Silent Trail
In this episode we follow Ben Brooks, an experienced hiker from California as he ventures alone on the Bailey Canyon Trail in the Sierra Madre. What began as a routine afternoon hike took a dangerous turn when a black bear forced him off schedule, leading him into darkness and a fateful decision that would leave him injured. Alongside Ben’s gripping account, we explore the critical lessons of hiki
The Dog and the Bear
In June 2022, Frank and Connie Delnero, a couple from Pennsylvania, set out on what seemed like a routine evening walk with their 2 dogs. As they turned a corner, they bumped into a mother bear and her 3 small cubs. In this episode, we recount their terrifying encounter and explore how bears have adapted to human encroachment Stay with us as we unpack this harrowing true story and offer essential
Ryan Marshall: Fire, Watrer, Shelter
In this episode, I sit down with Ryan Marshall, former host of Marshall Bushcraft on Canada's Wild Tv, to talk about the experience that changed the course of his life. In his early 20's Ryan set out on a winter climbing trip, only to find himself caught in a blizzard, soaked, exposed, and facing conditions he wasn't ready for. What followed was a series of decisions that pushed him to his limits
The Amazon Adventures
In the 1980's, a simple magazine article would change everything for a Wisconsin angler named Joe Wing. After reading about Peacock bass fishing in the Amazon he picked up the phone and called the man behind the story- and a few months later, he was headed deep into South America. What followed were years of raw, unfiltered adventure across remote rivers in places like Venezuela, Brazil and Peru-
Hope Hung in the Tree
Bob Kampstra is back on the show, and at 87 years old, he's proof that adventure doesn't retire. In this episode, Bob takes us into the woods and into a situation where his experience, quick thinking, and even his faith are put to the ultimate test. We discuss the crucial lessons he learned - why wearing a safety harness is non-negotiable and why someone should always know where you are. We also d
When the Ice Gave Way
On a windy winter day fourteen years ago, Duane Braaksma set out alone to ice fish on Big Green Lake Wisconsin. What should have been a quiet afternoon on the ice turned into a fight for survival when he fell through and found himself trapped in freezing water with no way out. With other fishermen nearby but unable to hear his calls for help, Duane only had minutes to act.In this episode, we tell
The Hunt That Wasn't
Back in 1973 Bob Kampstra, a hunter from Wisconsin answered what appeared to be a credible advertisement for a guided elk hunt in the Idaho Wilderness. After a few phone calls he believed he could trust this professional guide.Once he arrived in camp, it became clear this outfitter wasn't what he claimed to be. Promises of experienced guides, reliable support and a well-ran camp gave way to someth
Trapped on the Trapline
More than 25 years ago, a routine day on a northern Wisconsin trapline took an unexpected turn for Steve Olson. While handling a conibear trap deep in the woods, a split-second mistake left him trapped and stuck alone with no cell phone and no immediate help. What followed required problem-solving, determination, and a calm approach under pressure.In this episode we share Steve's experience and fo
Elk Hunting in Grizzly Country
In this episode, we sit down with Ron Niziolek, a life long bow hunter from Cody, Wyoming whose passion for elk hunting places him deep in some of the most bear-dense terrain in the lower 48. In areas where nearly every drainage holds a grizzly bear, success isn't just measured by filling a tag- it's measured by getting home safe. During the 2024 Wyoming elk season, Ron encountered 41 grizzly bear
Thirty Feet Up
A routine morning in the Michigan woods turns into a life-altering event when veteran hunter Greg Shull experiences a catastrophic climber tree stand failure during the 2009 deer season. In this episode we examine Greg's story and use it as a powerful lens to explore the realities of hunting from elevation- where preparation, equipment, and split-second circumstances can mean the difference betwee
After the Bite
In this episode we share the powerful story of Lauren Jean- a tough, devoted hounds woman whose life was turned upside down by a single tick bite. After contracting Lyme disease, Lauren quickly developed severe symptoms, including neurological issues, heart complication, and P.O.T.S forcing her into a year long battle that drained her health, finances and strength. Through hospital visits, costly
Lost in the System
In this episode, we sit down with Justin Klement, an outdoorsman whose life took an unexpected turn after a tick bite in 2012 while hunting in Washington State. What began as a simple tick removal became a six year medical mystery marked by worsening symptoms, unanswered questions, and countless treatments that never addressed the real cause. Justin shares the physical, emotional, and medical obst
From Target to Trauma
In this episode I sit down with Keith Schuh, an archer whose life changed forever in a split second. Nearly 20 years ago, Keith made the switch from aluminum to carbon arrows— a move many archers were making at the time. During a casual afternoon of target practice with friends, one arrow failed catastrophically. The carbon shaft splintered on release, driving deep into Keith’s arm and hand, causi
Sepsis in the Wild
Returning guest Jeff Braaksma joins us for his 3rd appearance- and this time with a hunting story that took a serious and unexpected turn. What started as a triumphant bow hunt on public land in Wisconsin, became a fight for his health. The day after his successful hunt, his body began telling him something was seriously wrong. With red streaks running up his arms, extreme fatigue, and confus
Spider Bite
In this episode, returning guest Jeff Braaksma shares a harrowing first hand account of what he believes was a Brown Recluse Spider bite-right in the woods of Wisconsin, where the species isn't considered native. While clearing brush for a deer stand, Jeff experienced a bite that quickly turned serious: swelling, tissue damage, and a textbook bullseye wound. Days later, after posting pictures on F
Burned
In this episode, I share a painful lesson I learned first hand: What happens when you don't properly protect your skin from the sun. After a fishing trip turned into a medical nightmare, I developed sun poisoning and second-degree burns on my lips. We'll talk about what sun poisoning actually is, why your lips are especially at risk, and how you can prevent serious sun damage using SPF lip balm, s
Crossbow Safety
A split-second mistake. A missing thumb. A crossbow design that never should have allowed it to happen. In this episode, I sit down with veteran bowhunter Jeff Braaksma, who shares the shocking story of how a simple backyard practice session with his new crossbow turned into a life-altering injury. Jeff's not alone - his experience is part of a disturbing pattern affecting hunters across the count
What's That Spot?
Professional fishing guide Thatcher Haggberg joins the show to share his personal wake-up call after being diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma and undergoing multiple treatments for actinic keratosis. With over 25 years guiding on Lake of the Woods and Crow Lake, Thatcher has spent a lifetime under the sun with little protection--and now he is on a mission to help others understand the long-term r
Stranded and Cart Broken
Join us as my friend Tracy and I chase Muskies on the legendary Lake of the Woods in Ontario, Canada. When the fish weren't biting the first few days of the trip, we made a bold decision to explore a new area- one that required portaging our boat overland using an old rail cart system. Things didn't go as planned and we soon found ourselves stranded on the wrong side of the portage with daylight s
Adak Island
When Chris and his son Tyler set out to hunt caribou on the remote island of Adak- a wind swept mostly deserted wonder in the Bering Sea- they expected a challenging trip. What they got was a battle for survival. Four miles from their truck, Chris suffered a devastating knee injury, tearing his patella tendon. With no local rescue team, no hospital and no quick way off the island, they reached out
Bear in the Grass
On a remote hunting trip in Alaska's Kenai Peninsula, Tyler Johnson and his father Chris found themselves in a life or death encounter with one of nature's most feared predators. While trekking through tall grass, they startled a massive brown bear. In a terrifying turn, the bear charged- first veering towards Chris before locking onto Tyler. In the chaos, Tyler tried to defend himself with his 10
Mountain Mishap
Leon Brown from Clark Fork Outfitters is back! A returning guest and seasoned hunting guide, Leon joins us once again to share another unforgettable story.This time it all starts with a successful hunt as his dad drops a great bull elk, but things quickly take a turn. After deciding to haul the elk out using an ATV, Leon is able to get down the top of the mountain to an old logging road. But when
Dogs on the Chase, Bear on the Attack
In this gripping episode, Leon Brown of Clark Fork Outfitters shares his harrowing encounter with a black bear in the wilds of Idaho. After a day-long chase with his dogs, Leon found himself under attack, forced to defend himself with his handgun. He recounts the terrifying moment the bear turned on him, biting his thigh and hand and how he survived the the attack. Leon's story is not only a testa
Perserverance
In this episode, we dive into the powerful story behind Stephan Kesting's book, Perseverance: Life and Death in the Subarctic. Stephan shares his harrowing journey of survival after facing near-death experiences in the wild, and how these challenges led him to a deeper understanding of life, resilience and hope. Don't miss this incredible story of survival and personal growth. Stephan's Book:https
Love, Laughter, and Broken Ribs
What happens when a honeymoon turns into a series of unfortunate events? Katie and Mitchell find out as their romantic getaway to South Dakota quickly derails with food poisoning and a horse riding accident that ends with a broken rib. Join as Katie shares the ups, the downs and everything in between- proving that sometimes love grows stronger in the most unexpected circumstances. Hosted on Acast.
Caught in the Current
In this episode, we follow the gripping journey of Steve Acosta and his brother Simon as they venture out for a day of Steelhead flyfishing on California's Feather River. What begins as a serene escape quickly turn's into a fight for survival when their drift boat capsizes, leaving one brother struggling beneath the surface. Join us as we recount their terrifying experience and the lessons learned
Off the Trail
In this episode, Dawn Rohde shares her harrowing solo adventure up Red Pines Trail in Utah’s Little Cottonwood Canyon. Her plan to explore the scenic Maybird Lake area takes an unexpected turn when she loses the trail amid lingering snow and rugged terrain. A thunderstorm rolls in and the conditions become perilous with lightning, hail, and slippery trails. As night falls and the temperatures drop
Treble Hooked
In this podcast episode, seasoned musky fisherman and guide Joe Junion recounts a series of fishing mishaps centered around one of the most dangerous aspects of the sport—the razor-sharp treble hooks. With vivid detail, he recalls several close calls and near misses that have left anglers bloodied and bruised, including himself. Whether you're a fishing enthusiast or just a fan of wild adventure s
Bear Bait Blunders and Mishaps
In this specially requested episode, host Brad Mathewson shares two more entertaining and cautionary tales from his bear hunting adventures. The setting for both stories is the swampy, bog-filled wilderness where he and a friend were scouting and baiting for bear season. From underestimating the treacherous terrain of a bog, to nature throwing the unexpected curveball, this episode offers listener
Bears, Bees and a Swarm
Join us for a wild story in the heart of the wilderness. Our host Brad Mathewson, an experienced hunter, sets out on what should have been a routine trip to put out bear bait. But as soon as he steps onto shore, he finds himself under attack — not by a bear, but by a swarm of angry yellow jackets. Stranded with his kayak pulled up over their ground nest, he has no choice but to fight the swarm of
A Stroke of Luck
In this gripping episode, we follow Leroy, an experienced elk hunter, as he embarks on a muzzleloader hunt in the rugged Colorado mountains. After successfully harvesting an elk, Leroy encounters two fellow hunters who offer to help him pack out his prize. But as the group begins the arduous task, Leroy suddenly feels dizzy and collapses. Unbeknownst to him, he’s suffering from a life-threatening
Six Days in the Desert
What does it take to survive in one of the harshest environments on earth? In this episode, we follow the extraordinary tale of Ed Rosenthal who became lost in Joshua Tree National Park for six days. Isolated in the unforgiving desert landscape without water, he cleverly used the canyon’s shade to endure scorching days and freezing nights. His story is one of perseverance, showcasing the human spi
My Skin's On Fire
In this episode, host Brad Mathewson shares how he learned the hard way when it comes to the "Dos and Don'ts" to carrying bear spray. Listen as he describes the surprising effects and the valuable lessons drawn from this unexpected incident. A must-listen for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone in bear country. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Calm Waters, Unexpected Peril
Join us in this gripping episode as we recount the harrowing tale of a family’s day on a boat that takes an unexpected turn. Despite setting out on serene and mild waters, their boat capsizes, turning their peaceful outing into a fight for survival. Listen as Officer Kong shares his firsthand account of the sudden disaster with host Brad Mathewson. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more i
Backyard Black Bear Attack
In this episode, host Brad Mathewson delves into the harrowing experience of Lee Ann Galante, a Pennsylvania woman who had the misfortune to encounter a mother black bear in her own backyard. Lee Ann recounts the terrifying moments when she let her small dog out for a quick potty break, only to find herself face-to-face with a protective bear. Listen in as Lee Ann describes the intense encounter,
Duck Fever
Join us as we recount the tale of a hunter and his nephews who find themselves in the middle of a duck hunters paradise. Amidst the serene South Dakota backdrop, a single, devastating shot shatters the calm. Hear the firsthand account from Lon as he explains the aftermath of the hunting trip that went tragically wrong. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Fawn Rescue
In this heartwarming episode, we dive into an extraordinary rescue story that exemplifies compassion. Join host Brad Mathewson as he recounts the incredible story of the time when he and a fishing buddy saved a fawn from drowning in a lake. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dehydrated in The Mountains
In this gripping episode of I Survived The Wild Outdoors, we delve into the harrowing experience of a group of fishermen who embarked on a mountain hiking expedition, only to find themselves facing a life-threatening situation when one of their own suddenly succumbs to severe dehydration, leaving them stranded and desperate for help. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Silent Killer: The Widowmaker Heart Attack
In this gripping episode, we follow the emotion-fueled journey of seasoned hunter Nate who finds himself facing an unexpected adversary - a widowmaker heart attack - while out in the woods. As he navigates the hunting land the alarming signs of his condition grow from a general fatigue that is easily overlooked and ignored into a deep feeling of something being very wrong. Up against the clock an
Wood Cutting Boys
In this gripping episode of I Survived The Wild Outdoors, we delve into the heart-stopping tale of a father and son team out in the rugged wilderness, making wood for winter. As they laboriously cut through the hardy Newfoundland trees, tragedy strikes in an instant when one of them suffers a severe injury from the unforgiving bite of the chainsaw. With adrenaline pumping, they quickly abandon the
Almost A Watery Grave
When Sammy, the faithful four-legged friend of our host Brad Mathewson finds himself overboard, the fisherman's instincts kick in. Without hesitation, Brad plunges into the waves after his loyal companion, risking his own safety in a desperate bid to rescue Sammy from the depths. Little did Brad know that he was the one that would be put to the test in this episode of I Survived The Wild Outdoors.
Oh Chute
In this remarkable podcast episode, Brad takes us into the breathtaking world of skydiving and the incredible story of Jordan, a daring adventurer whose passion for living life to the fullest takes her to the edge of human experience. With nerves of steel and a thirst for adrenaline, Jordan takes to the skies for what should have been another exhilarating jump. However, fate takes a cruel turn as
Surviving the Swamp
In this compelling podcast episode, we embark on a journey with Eric, who ventured into a swamp determined to make a difference by cleaning up the area. Armed with a sense of purpose and a commitment to nature, Eric sets out alone into the labyrinthine, eager to rid it of garbage. What begins as a noble mission soon turns into a harrowing tale of survival as Eric finds himself disoriented and lost
On Thin Ice
Welcome to a heart-stopping podcast episode recounting the harrowing tale of two young men who found themselves in a perilous situation on a frozen lake. Join us as we unravel the chilling events that led to their ATV breaking through the ice, plunging them into icy waters. Through courage and quick thinking, witness their dramatic rescue from the jaws of danger. Stay tuned for a riveting narrativ
Dumpster Fire Honeymoon
In this thrilling episode, we follow the newlywed couple, host Brad Mathewson and his wife Laura, as they embark on their honeymoon adventure in the picturesque wilderness of Canada. Eager to experience the great outdoors, they decide to go muskie fishing on the iconic Lake of the Woods.As they set out on the tranquil waters, the couple is filled with excitement and anticipation. However, their id
Frozen Fish Sticks and the Deadly Moose Ride
Welcome to a gripping two-part podcast episode! In Part One, dive into the world of Host Brad Mathewson's youth as he retells his story from when he and a friend went on an overnight ice fishing adventure. As unforeseen challenges arise, witness their resilience and the beauty of the northern lights that graces their journey. Then, in Part Two, join as we hear the tale from when 4 hunters wen
Life: Quarter Inch at a Time
In this episode host Brad Mathewson delves into the extraordinary journey of seasoned hunter Scott Renner who survived a harrowing encounter with nature. In a shocking twist of fate, Scott found himself impaled in the eye by a deer antler during a routine hunt. Against all odds, he not only survived the gruesome incident but also made a full recovery, defying medical expectations.Todays Guest:Scot
Strides of Courage
In this episode of I Survived The Wild Outdoors, we delve into the extraordinary story of Chad Thompson. Skipping school for a day of hunting, Chad found himself facing an unexpected turn of events when he was shot in the leg, altering the course of his life.Listen as we explore the circumstances that led to the fateful moment he was injured, and the immediate aftermath that set him on a path of r
The Fall
A routine day in the woods turns into a helicopter flight to the hospital after a tree stand accident. In this episode Mark shares his story with Host Brad Mathewson.Today's Guest: Mark Gutsmeid Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Impaled By A Horn
A successful harvest of a buck turns into a struggle to survive when a freak accident puts Kris Bjerke's basic first aid knowledge to the test. In this episode Kris shares his story with Host Brad Mathewson.Today's Guest: Kris Bjerke Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
About The Show
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Montana Grizzly Attack
2 Montana elk hunters come face to face with a protective sow grizzly and her cub. The encounter quickly turns into a fight for survival as the bear attacks the men. In this episode Bob shares his story with Host Brad Mathewson.Today's Guest: Bob Legasa Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
A Hunter's Safety
A successful morning of deer hunting takes a tragic turn when a hunting partner has an accidental discharge with his hunting rifle, forever changing Lon Reidburn's life. In this episode Lon shares his story with Host Brad Mathewson.Today's Guest: Lon Reidburn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Loyal To The End
A day of duck hunting turns into a fight for survival when a hunter suffers burns after jumping into a hot spring after his faithful companion Jimbo. In this episode, Nathaniel shares his harrowing story with host Brad Mathewson.Today's Guest: Nathaniel Minnick Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Bear Hunt Gone Sideways
After an exciting evening of bear hunting, things take a turn as an aggressive black bear charges into the hunters ground blind. In this episode, Craig shares with host Brad Mathewson his story of a Minnesota Bear hunt that did not go as planned.Today's Guest: Craig Hoffman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Two Hands
After a trip to the mountains goes sideways, elite backcountry snowmobiler Matt Potratz finds himself in a fight against one of nature's fiercest phenomena, an avalanche. In this episode, Matt shares with host Brad Mathewson his inspiring tale of survival and how this event has shaped his life.Today's Guest: Matt PotratzFB: https://www.facebook.com/matt.potratz?mibextid=LQQJ4dBook: https://www.ama
Adrift on Lake Michigan
A day of fishing with friends turns into a near tragedy. One minute your reeling in tonight's dinner and the next thing you know the boats sinking faster than the Titanic.Link to Midwest Outdoors Blog post:https://midwestoutdoors.com/fishing/stupid-adrift-thanking-god-coleman-cooler/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Alaskan Brown Bear Attack
After a successful evening of fishing, Bill Pfendler finds himself face to face with a ferocious Alaskan Brown bear. In this episode, Bill shares his harrowing tale of survival with host Brad Mathewson.Link to Anchorage Daily News Story:https://www.adn.com/alaska-news/article/peninsula-bear-mauling-victim-describes-attack-family/2010/09/22/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more informati
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