Chris Avena – American Outdoor News Magazine

The Team behind the Magic

The annual Safari Club International Convention once again proved why it is widely regarded as one of the largest and most exciting hunting conventions in the world. This year’s event in Nashville brought together thousands of hunters, outfitters, conservation leaders, and outdoor industry professionals for what many consider the premier outdoor show of the year. During my conversation with Raymie Grimm, we reflected on the incredible energy that filled the convention halls as attendees from across the country and around the world gathered to celebrate hunting, conservation, and the global outdoor community.

Hosted by Safari Club International, the SCI Convention is far more than a typical outdoor trade show. It serves as a central hub for the hunting community where attendees can connect with world-class outfitters, hunting destinations, outdoor gear manufacturers, and conservation organizations. The show floor featured hundreds of exhibitors offering guided hunting opportunities, firearms, optics, apparel, and outdoor equipment. For many sportsmen and women, the convention is the ideal place to plan their next hunting adventure while discovering the latest innovations in hunting gear and outdoor technology.

Raymie emphasized that the Safari Club International Convention plays a vital role in supporting wildlife conservation and protecting hunting traditions. Through auctions, fundraising events, and special recognition ceremonies, SCI raises millions of dollars annually to support conservation initiatives and wildlife habitat preservation around the world. These efforts reinforce the important role that ethical hunters play in global conservation, helping to fund research, habitat management, and wildlife protection programs.

Another key aspect of the convention is the extensive planning required to deliver an event of this magnitude. From coordinating hundreds of exhibitors to organizing educational seminars, conservation discussions, and networking opportunities, the SCI team works year-round to ensure the event provides value for both members and industry partners. According to Raymie, the goal is to create an environment where attendees can build meaningful relationships, gain valuable knowledge, and strengthen the future of the hunting and outdoor industries.

Beyond the business and conservation discussions, the camaraderie and community spirit of the convention truly set it apart. Longtime friends reconnect, new partnerships are formed, and hunters from every corner of the world share stories and experiences. The vibrant atmosphere of Nashville added to the excitement, making it an ideal host city for an event that celebrates outdoor heritage and the hunting lifestyle.

As Raymie and I discussed, the success of this year’s convention highlights the continued growth and influence of Safari Club International within the outdoor community. The event not only showcases the best the hunting industry has to offer, but it also reinforces the importance of conservation, education, and advocacy for hunters everywhere.

For those passionate about hunting, wildlife conservation, and the outdoor lifestyle, the Safari Club International Convention remains one of the most influential hunting events in the world. If the excitement and engagement seen in Nashville are any indication, the future of the hunting community and the conservation efforts that support it remains stronger than ever.

http://SafariClub.Org

https://AmericanOutdoorNews.com

March 9, 2026

By Chris AvenaPodcast, PodcastsConservation, Education, Hunting Convention, mentorship, nashville, outfitters, Safari Club International, SCI0 Comments

Preserving the Outdoors for Tomorrow

In this episode of American Outdoor News, Chris Avena sits down with Scot McClure of the Outdoor Tomorrow Foundation to discuss the powerful origin story behind one of the most impactful outdoor education organizations in the country. McClure shares how the foundation was built to preserve our outdoor heritage by introducing students to hunting, fishing, wildlife conservation, and responsible outdoor ethics through structured curriculum in schools nationwide. What began as a bold idea to protect the future of the outdoors has grown into a nationally recognized program helping shape the next generation of conservationists.

Throughout the interview, McClure explains how the Outdoor Tomorrow Foundation bridges the gap between conservation, education, and community involvement. By partnering with schools and educators, the organization ensures students gain hands-on knowledge about wildlife management, habitat preservation, and the role hunters play in conservation funding. The conversation highlights how outdoor education programs are critical to sustaining America’s hunting traditions while promoting responsible stewardship of natural resources.

The discussion also explores the foundation’s growing association with Safari Club International, one of the world’s leading advocates for wildlife conservation and hunting rights. This partnership strengthens both organizations’ missions, expanding outreach and reinforcing the connection between youth education and long-term conservation efforts. Together, they are working to secure the future of hunting, conservation, and the outdoor lifestyle for generations to come.

http://Gootf.com

https://aodn0617.live-website.com

February 20, 2026

By Chris AvenaPodcastsFishing, Hunting, OTF, outdoor tomorrow foundation, Outdoors, Safari Club International, SCI, survival skills0 Comments

The Ultimate Hedge in Uncertain Times

In this exclusive interview with Mike Fuljenz of Universal Coin & Bullion, we dive deep into the growing importance of gold and silver investments in today’s uncertain economic climate. As inflation concerns, market volatility, and global instability continue to impact investors, Fuljenz explains why precious metals remain one of the most trusted hedges against economic downturns. He breaks down how gold bullion, silver coins, and rare collectible coins can serve as both wealth preservation tools and long-term financial security assets.

Throughout the conversation, Fuljenz outlines key gold and silver market trends, including the influence of global demand, central bank purchasing, and supply constraints. He shares insights into how geopolitical tensions and economic policy shifts directly affect precious metal prices. For investors seeking portfolio diversification, he emphasizes the value of owning physical gold and silver as a safeguard against currency devaluation and stock market corrections.

The interview also provides critical guidance on how to safely navigate the coin and bullion industry. Fuljenz discusses the importance of working with reputable dealers, understanding grading standards, and avoiding common pitfalls that can cost investors thousands. He highlights consumer education as a top priority, encouraging buyers to research companies carefully and focus on transparency, authenticity, and long-term value when investing in precious metals.

Beyond finance, Fuljenz speaks about the responsibility of businesses within the industry to support constitutional freedoms, including the Second Amendment. Through his leadership and industry involvement, he underscores how companies can stand for economic stability while also advocating for American values. This powerful discussion offers valuable insight for anyone interested in gold investing, silver bullion, wealth protection strategies, and the future of the precious metals market.

For more information go to http://Universalcoin.com or call 800-822-4653

February 19, 2026

By Chris AvenaPodcastscoins0 Comments

Empowering the Next Generation of Hunters

Chris Avena interviews Stephanie Spika-Hickey about her extensive involvement with Safari Club International (SCI) and the Professional Outdoor Media Association (POMA). They discuss the importance of youth and veterans awards in promoting outdoor activities, the process of starting a new chapter within SCI, and the significance of networking in the outdoor media industry. Stephanie emphasizes the need for community engagement and education in outdoor sports, encouraging listeners to introduce others to the outdoors and share their passion for hunting and conservation.

takeaways

Stephanie has been with SCI for a long time, serving in various roles.

The Youth Award encourages young hunters to engage in their communities.

Veterans awards recognize chapters that support military service members.

Starting a chapter requires community involvement and support from SCI.

POMA connects outdoor media professionals with industry opportunities.

Networking is crucial for growth in the outdoor media field.

The POMA Summit is a key event for media and companies to connect.

Members can apply for awards to be recognized for their contributions.

Education about hunting is important for non-hunters to understand the lifestyle.

Community engagement is essential for the future of outdoor sports.

February 18, 2026

By Chris AvenaPodcastsfirst for hunter, outdoor lifestyle, Outdoors, SCI, veteran hunter, youth hunter0 Comments

SCI Deep Dive into Outdoor Adventure

In a recent interview, Christopher Avena sits down with Raymie Grimm to discuss the highly anticipated Safari Club International Convention, one of the premier gatherings for hunters, conservationists, and outdoor enthusiasts. The conversation highlights the convention’s massive scale, featuring more than 900 exhibitors showcasing hunting destinations, outdoor gear, conservation initiatives, and industry innovations. As one of the largest hunting and conservation conventions in the world, the event offers attendees a unique opportunity to explore new products, connect with outfitters, and immerse themselves in the global hunting community.

Throughout the discussion, Grimm emphasizes the critical role Safari Club International plays in conservation advocacy and protecting hunting traditions. Membership in SCI provides outdoor enthusiasts with exclusive access to educational resources, conservation programs, and legislative advocacy efforts that support the future of hunting and wildlife preservation. The convention itself serves as a central hub where members and newcomers alike can participate in educational seminars designed to provide valuable insights into wildlife management, ethical hunting practices, and conservation leadership.

Avena and Grimm also highlight the unmatched networking opportunities available during the convention, where attendees can meet industry experts, professional outfitters, conservation leaders, and fellow hunters from around the world. The event’s evening social gatherings and auctions are major highlights, offering guests the chance to support conservation fundraising efforts while building lasting relationships within the outdoor community. The convention remains welcoming to families and newcomers, with free admission for children helping encourage youth participation in outdoor traditions.

Hosting the event in Nashville adds another layer of excitement, as the city’s vibrant culture, entertainment, and hospitality enhance the overall convention experience. Grimm encourages attendees to fully engage with the event, take advantage of educational opportunities, and connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for conservation and the outdoor lifestyle. The Safari Club International Convention continues to serve as a cornerstone event that strengthens the hunting community while promoting responsible wildlife stewardship and outdoor heritage.

http://SafariClub.org

https://aodn0617.live-website.com

February 15, 2026

By Chris AvenaPodcastsConservation, Hunter conservation, Hunting, Outdoor Convention, outdoor education, Safari Club International, SCI0 Comments

Florida Bear Hunt

During my interview with Maria Davidson of Safari Club International, we discussed the recent Florida bear hunt and the conservation science that supports regulated hunting in the state. Maria explained that Florida’s bear hunts are not about reducing wildlife indiscriminately, but about responsibly managing finite habitat resources while balancing wildlife populations with increasing land use and human interaction. Much like deer management in the Northeast, Florida must consider food availability, carrying capacity, and long-term sustainability to ensure bears—and other wildlife—can thrive.

Maria detailed how Florida’s bear population management plan is rooted in state-of-the-art science. Population surveys rely on real data and indices to determine saturation levels in core habitat areas, rather than assumptions or public perception. She emphasized that these surveys are not conducted annually but revisited every two to three bear generations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Florida’s approach is species-specific, focused solely on bears due to the state’s limited habitat, and should not be misconstrued as a reflection of management strategies for other wildlife species.

Our conversation also explored bear population management strategies, including how harvest levels are used to slow, stabilize, or adjust population growth when necessary. Maria noted that a healthy bear population does not always mean one that is constantly growing. Sustainable populations can exist even at lower numbers, as seen in states like Louisiana, which has successfully conducted bear hunts. I shared my own observations of increased bear sightings in New York over the past 15 to 18 years, underscoring how bear populations—and management challenges—vary widely by region.

Finally, Maria highlighted the data-driven and adaptive management approach used by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Through tools such as hair snare projects, genetic identification, and tracking of female bears with collars, FWC gathers critical information to guide future decisions, including tag allocations for upcoming seasons like 2026. We also addressed common misconceptions about hunting, emphasizing its essential role in conservation funding, wildlife management, and education. Maria stressed the importance of transparency and outreach—particularly to landowners and the broader public—to better communicate how regulated hunting directly supports conservation efforts across Florida and beyond.

January 14, 2026

By Chris AvenaPodcastsbear encounters, bear habitat, bear hunt, bear management, black bear, florida bear hunt, florida bear season, Florida Conservation0 Comments

Time for the Outdoor Extravaganza

Chris Avena, host of the American Outdoor News Podcast speaks with Christina Pittman, President and CEO of Texas Trophy Hunters Association, about conservation and hunting heritage.

She highlighted TTHA’s 51-year history and its mission supporting youth education and the future of hunting.

Christina previewed the Outdoors Extravaganza 2026 ,scheduled January 9–11 in Dallas at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center. This jam packed trade show features outfitters, hunting gear, filled with family activities, and expanded premium exhibitor space.

She explained how Safari Club International’s acquisition of TTHA strengthened education, conservation, and hunter outreach efforts. The event includes seminars with Texas Parks and Wildlife and educational programming for new and experienced hunters.

The Outdoors Extravaganza also raises funds through auctions and youth-focused events promoting the outdoor lifestyle. Families are encouraged to attend, with free youth admission, hands-on activities, and opportunities to support conservation.

http://TTHA.com

https://aodn0617.live-website.com

December 29, 2025

By Chris AvenaPodcastsSafari Club International, SCI, texas trophy hunters, TTHA0 Comments

Its Show Time! Time to Celebrate the Outdoors!

In this episode of the American Outdoor News Podcast, host Chris Avena speaks with Raymie Grimm of Safari Club International (SCI) about the organization’s global conservation mission and hunting advocacy efforts. Their conversation highlights how SCI continues to unite hunters worldwide through education, ethical hunting practices, and impactful conservation initiatives.

A major focus of the discussion was the Texas Trophy Hunters Outdoors Extravaganza, taking place January 9–11 at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas. Produced in partnership with SCI, the event features top outfitters, manufacturers, live entertainment, and highly anticipated online hunting auctions. Raymie emphasized the Extravaganza’s role in advancing the hunting industry, supporting conservation funding, and creating opportunities for sportsmen to connect directly with industry leaders.

Raymie and Chris also previewed the Safari Club International Convention and after-hours events in Nashville, which continue to grow in popularity. From chapter gatherings and foundation galas to live and online auctions, the SCI Nashville events blend entertainment, networking, and fundraising. Raymie stressed the importance of early registration, noting strong ticket demand and record-breaking auction donations that directly support SCI’s conservation and advocacy programs.

The conversation concluded with an overview of SCI Cinegética Spain, the organization’s premier European convention held in Madrid. This international event combines world-class hunting packages, cultural experiences, auctions, and exclusive social events. Cinegética Spain showcases SCI’s expanding global footprint, offering members a unique opportunity to connect with international outfitters while celebrating hunting traditions, conservation, and camaraderie on a global stage. http://Safariclub.org

https://aodn0617.live-website.com

December 23, 2025

By Chris AvenaPodcasts0 Comments

A Girl & A Gun- Empowering Women in Shooting Sports

Chris Avena interviewed Robyn Sandoval, founder of A Girl & A Gun, about the organization’s origins and nationwide growth.

Sandoval explained it began as a 2011 “Girls’ Night Out” to introduce women to firearms in a welcoming, non-intimidating environment.

A Girl & A Gun has grown into the largest women’s firearms training organization in the United States. The organization empowers women through professional firearms training, mentorship, and supportive shooting sports communities.

Sandoval emphasized the importance of certified instructors, safety education, and confidence-building for new and returning shooters.

She highlighted how mentorship helps break barriers and reshape perceptions of women in the firearms industry.

With chapters across all 50 states, A Girl & A Gun continues expanding training, leadership, and instructor development programs.

The organization remains committed to responsible gun ownership, education, and growing female participation in shooting sports.

http://agirlandagun.org

https://aodn0617.live-website.com

December 17, 2025

By Chris AvenaPodcastsA Girl and a Gun, Empowering Women, Gun Owners, Robyn Sandoval, Shooting sports0 Comments

Let’s Go Bear hunting

Chris spoke with Bee Frederick and Regina Lennox from Safari Club International about current bear hunting policies. They discussed Florida bear hunting regulations, Louisiana’s reopened bear season, and ongoing challenges in population control. Bee explained the limited Florida bear hunt, which offers 172 permits across specific zones. He noted that the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission uses science-based data to protect bear sustainability.

Bee detailed how the Florida bear hunting permit system works and why the FWC set conservative quotas. Florida excluded zones with fewer than 200 bears and adjusted tag numbers by region. This structured approach helps manage rising bear populations and reduce human-bear conflicts. Bee stressed that the process focuses on responsible wildlife management, not experimentation. The permit system reflects a cautious but necessary step toward long-term conservation.

Regina and Bee compared Florida’s policies to Louisiana, where bear hunting restarted after 35 years. Louisiana saw strong success in its first year, leading to more permits and better harvest data. They also discussed Connecticut’s growing bear population and the urgent need for structured management. Connecticut has over 1,000 bears but no bear hunting season, creating rising conflict in a densely populated state. The conversation emphasized that science-driven harvest data is essential for future tag allocation and wildlife balance.

The interview highlighted how expanding black bear populations create opportunities and challenges for conservation. Regina outlined the importance of hunting as a management tool, especially when bears enter unsuitable habitats. Bee explained that states aim for a 20% harvest to stabilize populations, but many fall short. Ethical hunting practices, such as avoiding sows with cubs, remain central to successful conservation. Chris closed by encouraging support for Safari Club International and inviting listeners to revisit the topic after new harvest results and regulatory updates.

http://SafariClub.org

https://aodn0617.live-website.com

December 10, 2025

By Chris AvenaPodcastsBear Hunting, florida bear hunt, florida bear season, Louisiana Bear Hunt, Louisiana Bear Season, SCI Advocacy0 Comments