Hunting Matters

In this episode of "Hunting Matters," we sit down with Derek Ham , the 2026 HSCF Convention Chairperson and an Agent specializing in ranch properties for Ruple Properties. Derek shares his unique journey, which has taken him from his roots in the Texas Panhandle and Houston to college in Austin and a stint in the music industry in Los Angeles, all while remaining a dedicated hunter.We dive into how his varied life and professional experiences—including owning a commercial construction company and now specializing in ranch property—have shaped his perspective on land and conservation. Derek highlights the lessons passed down by his father regarding the appreciation of the land and how hunting can help people bond and heal.Derek, whose true passion is for hunting and conservation, discusses his role as an HSCF Board Member and current Convention Chair, sharing why he became involved with the Houston Safari Club Foundation. We discuss the valuable resources HSCF provides for both new and experienced hunters and why listeners should attend the annual convention.The conversation then shifts to his expertise in ranch real estate. Derek offers practical advice for prospective buyers , discusses the current climate of the ranch real estate market , and identifies the biggest mistakes buyers make when searching for recreational land. He also provides insights into what to look for in a property that has strong hunting and conservation potential and the critical role private landowners play in wildlife stewardship.Website & SocialsWebsite: www.rupleproperties.comInstagram: derekhamhunts ContactEmail: [email protected]: (713) 553-7047Learn more about HSCF at wehuntwegive.org.

In this episode of "Hunting Matters," we are joined by Jeff Garrett to discuss a lifetime spent in the outdoors, ranging from his roots in Texas to extreme adventures across the globe. Jeff shares his background growing up in Bryan, hunting with his father and grandfather on modest hunts for squirrel, rabbit, dove, and quail. We discuss his progression into big game hunting, including 33 years on a Hill Country lease where he has secured top awards for Rio Grande Turkey, as well as his college years chasing West Texas mule deer.We dive into Jeff’s current focus: completing the Ultimate Waterfowlers Challenge with his son, Collin. With the goal of harvesting all 41 ducks and geese of North America, Jeff details their travels to locations like St. Paul Island—800 miles from Anchorage—and Obregon, Mexico. He shares the adventure of battling extreme weather in the Bering Sea to secure King Eiders, Long-tailed ducks, and Harlequins.Jeff provides gripping accounts of his most memorable hunts, including the physical demands of chasing wild sheep and mountain goats. He recounts a harrowing experience in the Northwest Territories where he broke his ankle on a mountain peak and had to slide down to hike over a mile back to camp. We also hear the incredible story of his first trip to Africa in 2023 to hunt leopard, a dream inspired by reading Capstick as a child. Jeff describes tracking a cattle-killing leopard and a close encounter where the animal charged his truck, striking the window just inches from him.As a firm believer in the mission of the Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF), Jeff highlights the organization's remarkable progress in education, conservation, and advocacy. We discuss the impact of the Foundation, including over $4 million in conservation grants and $3.36 million awarded in scholarships. Jeff also touches on the organization's 130% membership growth and its leadership in protecting the Second Amendment and sustainable hunting policies.Tune in to hear Jeff Garrett’s insights on conservation, family bonds in the field, and the adrenaline of the hunt.Learn more about HSCF at wehuntwegive.org

In this episode of "Hunting Matters," we're joined by Anthony Vaughan, a Relationship Manager with Capital Farm Credit, who is based out of Winnie, TX. Anthony was raised in Southeast Texas, graduated from Hamshire-Fannett High School, and earned a business degree from Lamar University. His early life was shaped by agricultural mechanics and regional rodeo competitions.We dive into Anthony's diverse background, which includes experience across the automotive, oil and gas, outdoor, and agricultural industries, discussing how these roles prepared him for his current position. Anthony shares what originally drew him to Capital Farm Credit and what he enjoys most about supporting borrowers with financing solutions for land acquisitions and operational needs related to farming and ranching.Anthony provides an overview of Capital Farm Credit's services, explaining what sets them apart from other lenders, including their cooperative structure and the patronage program benefit for members. We discuss the common goals and challenges he sees among farmers, ranchers, and landowners, as well as how market trends and land values in Texas are affecting property management and financing. We also explore how Capital Farm Credit helps landowners invest in conservation and habitat improvement projects, aligning with the values of HSCF.As a long-time corporate partner of the Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) , Anthony discusses the importance of the partnership and how groups like HSCF make a difference in the agricultural and outdoor communities.Finally, we explore Anthony’s personal passions, including his side business, Birdstrap Leather Company, discussing how it started, what inspired the name, and how he balances the company with his professional and family life. Anthony shares his enjoyment of hunting, fishing, restoring his 1986 Chevrolet C10 with his son, and shooting clay targets with his daughter—hobbies that deeply align with the audience. He offers valuable advice for those looking to purchase their first piece of rural land or get involved in agriculture and land stewardship.Tune in to hear Anthony's insights on land, family, and what keeps his career and lifestyle, rooted in Texas values, motivated and grounded.Learn more about Anthony Vaughan and Capital Farm Credit:Website: https://www.capitalfarmcredit.com/Learn more about HSCF at wehuntwegive.org

In this episode of "Hunting Matters," we're joined by Chris Conrad, the founder and owner of Republic Boot Co., a Houston-based bootmaker dedicated to preserving and celebrating Texan heritage through handcrafted cowboy boots. After spending time abroad, Chris returned to follow a "divine calling to save Texas" by starting his company in 2011.We dive into Chris's journey, which began with deep family roots in Houston’s Heights dating back to the late 1800s. We discuss how his experience in Italy shaped his appreciation for culture and craft , and how his background in engineering and oil & gas brings a unique, process-driven approach to the artistry of boot-making. Chris shares the mission behind Republic Boot Co.'s immersive retail space—part museum, part saloon, part workshop—designed to make people feel a distinct connection to Texas heritage.As an outdoorsman himself, Chris discusses how hunting has impacted his life and values. We explore the often-misunderstood role of hunters as stewards of the land and protectors of cultural heritage. Chris connects the spirit of the hunt—patience, respect, and self-reliance—to the philosophy of Republic Boot Co. , and how the boots he makes are designed to be heirloom products that carry the spirit of those stories and values.Tune in to hear how Chris balances handcrafted quality with business growth , how he captures customers' personal stories in a custom boot , and what it means to him to be "saving Texas" beyond the business itself.Learn more about Chris Conrad and Republic Boot Co.:Website:https://www.republicbootcompany.com Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/RepublicBootCo Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/republicboot1836/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-conrad-5479451a/ Learn more about HSCF at wehuntwegive.org. 

In this episode of "Hunting Matters," we're joined by Micah Haarhoff, the 24-year-old President of Revolution Powersports. Known as the "Amazon Prime of the powersports world" for its speed and customer-first experience, Revolution Powersports has seen incredible growth under Micah's leadership.A Texas-born entrepreneur and pilot, Micah also owns ventures in real estate and investments, driven by a passion for creating businesses that bring freedom and impact to his team and community. We dive into his journey, beginning at just 24 years old, and what sparked his passion for building companies. Micah shares the original vision behind Revolution Powersports and how the "Amazon Prime" model is delivered to customers through a process-driven approach focused on scalable systems and developing leaders.We explore how his Christian faith and values influence his leadership and business decisions, and what it means to build a "life without limits". We also get the inside track on the company's expansion, including the new storefront and the launch of their parts department.For our listeners who are hunters and outdoor enthusiasts, Micah breaks down how SXS (Side-by-Side) vehicles fit into the outdoor lifestyle. He shares key features and modifications he recommends for hunters and discusses the trend of increased interest from the hunting community for powersports vehicles.Tune in to hear how Micah balances confidence with humility, the influence of his other passion—flying—on his business mindset, and his advice for young entrepreneurs looking to build a business that creates true freedom and impact.Learn more about Micah Haarhoff and Revolution Powersports:Website: https://www.rpsride.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/RevolutionPowersportsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rpsrideTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rpsrideLearn more about Houston Safari Club Foundation at WEHUNTWEGIVE.ORG!