Two years ago today, I launched District of Conservation. And what a ride it has been!
Over 100 episodes recorded. Lots of debate inspired. Plenty of newsmakers and storytellers featured. Nuance emphasized in matters of public policy. And there’s still much to accomplish in this young project.
I’m game!
When I conceived this podcast in summer 2018, I had no idea where it would take me.
Initially, I had immense doubts about this medium.
Who wants to listen to monologues or hours’ long conversations on their phone or computer? What would I have to offer? Why would anyone want to listen to me and others chat about hunting, fishing, shooting sports, and outdoor activities? Could I cogently offer a sound politically-conservative take on environmental and conservation issues?
Within the last few years, podcast listenership has grown tremendously. It’s a “hot” medium to have a presence on. I wanted to jump on board before it became saturated—especially in the formerly Outdoor (now Wilderness) Apple Podcast categories. Now, I’m glad I jumped on board. Our category has exploded and there are many “outdoor” podcasts available to listen to. But few boast our mission or emphasis on nuance—so we will continue to stand out and offer a contrast.
Here’s our Mission Statement:
District of Conservation is a podcast highlighting the incredible conservationists who thrive and survive deep in or around “The Swamp.” These are the policymakers, storytellers, trailblazers, and hardworking folks who go unnoticed but shape this region—whether they live or work here. In addition to guests, the podcast will also cover difficult and even controversial conservation public policy matters and news.
Going into Season 3, I’ll be fine-tuning the message and continuing the mission I originally laid out. More broadly, DOC will be a podcast “exploring the nuances of true conservation efforts from DC and beyond.” There won’t be significant changes to the show; just some new partnerships and potential opportunities for greater reach. As you may have heard, CFACT—a longtime collaborator of mine—has adopted the podcast. Don’t worry—I still maintain full control and directional duties, but I now have more backing. For that, I’m grateful.
I’ll bring on new and returning guests. I’ll continue to discuss controversial and underreported conservation/environmental news updates that often go unnoticed or underreported. I’ll be more vulnerable about my fishing and hunting adventures and not be shy to highlight both failures and successes. (We can learn a lot from our missed shots and the ones that got away, for example.) I think this season will bring us growth in listenership and greater national notice. And YOU can help us in this regard.
You won’t see me asking for money or financial support. All I ask is that you share the podcast. Tweet about it. Engage with us on social media. Leave us reviews. That’s all!
I want to express my gratitude to each and every one of you who has supported me and this project from the beginning. Thank you for listening. And if you’ve yet to discover the podcast, I hope you give it your consideration!
As always, send me your guest or topic suggestions—or nominate yourself if you think you can add to the conversation.
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Listen to our most recent episode with Jenny Anderson from ‘Girl of 10,000 Lakes’ — Apple