10 Feb 2026 07:55
545 Kevin Paulson : Outdoor Storytelling and Content Creation
Kevin Paulson talks about Outdoor Story Telling, Tradeshows, Hunting, and more
Episode Summary Kevin Paulson joins Rick Saez to talk about growing up in a U.S. Forest Service family, how hunting shaped his life, and the path that led him from guiding and outfitting to founding HuntingLife.com and later stepping into the role of Executive Director at AGLOW Outdoors. Kevin breaks down what "authentic" outdoor media really means today, why podcasting is exploding, how AI will challenge creators, and why every creator needs to start building an email list now. He also shares how AGLOW conferences and media camps work, why networking is everything, and what gear he's most excited to test this year.
In This Episode, You'll Hear
Kevin's upbringing around public lands and the Forest Service (and how it shaped his values)
Hunting "in his dad's hip pocket" starting at age five
Why he launched HuntingLife.com (and how the 2007–2009 economy forced a pivot)
What AGLOW is, why it matters, and how it evolved from local newspaper columns to modern creators
Why authenticity + trust beats "information" (especially in an AI-driven content world)
The biggest threat in outdoor media: AI "slop content" and the fight for attention
The most underrated asset: your email list
Why niche audiences ("100 true fans") often beat massive reach
Kevin's "year of the coyote" and what predator control looks like on working ranch land
OutdoorHive.com: a job resource built specifically for the hook-and-bullet + trade show industry
Gear, books, and advice for new outdoor communicators
Memorable Quotes
"Connection and authenticity—at the end of the day—that's what wins."
"It's more important to have an audience of a hundred that loves you than a hundred thousand that may or may not pay attention."
"Begin tomorrow… building your own mailing list."
"Proximity is power—be in the room with the people doing the things."
Resources & Links Mentioned
Organizations mentioned: Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, RMEF, Ducks Unlimited,
