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FOCUS HUNTING PODCAST

Kevin Toye

The Focus Hunting Podcast is a blue‑collar hunting show for people who grind out their seasons between work, family, and real life.

Host Kevin Toye is a working man first and a die‑hard bowhunter always. He understands what it’s like to punch a clock, save vacation days, and still chase big goals in the mountains and the woods.

Each episode is a laid‑back but serious conversation with hunters who get it—folks who balance jobs, families, and responsibilities, not just influencers with unlimited time to hunt. Together, we break down the why behind successful hunts: archery tactics, Western big game, bear, deer, elk, scouting, setups, gear, mental toughness, and the hard work it really takes.

If you’re a blue‑collar hunter who wants to apply lessons from hunting to life—and from life back into hunting—this is your place to learn, get fired up, and stay focused.

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  • 26 episodes
  • Avg 59 min
  • English
Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.
  • #258
    Thursday · 34 min

    Ep. 257 Elk bedding areas you might be overlooking.

    In this episode, Kevin shares his recent elk hunting experiences, insights into elk behavior changes, and practical tips for hunters navigating unpredictable conditions. Key topics Elk behavior and pattern changes due to pressure and breeding Impact of human and wolf pressure on elk locations Effective hunting strategies in thick timber and saddle ridges Importance of scouting and using terrain features like benches and transition zones Adapting to weather and wind conditions during hunts Chapters 00:00 Introduction and recent hunting recap 02:09 Changing elk habits and patterns 04:08 Impact of pressure and breeding activity 05:55 Finding elk on south facing slopes 07:50 Using terrain features and glassing techniques 10:13 Encountering elk and managing wind challenges 12:14 Tracking elk sign and understanding their movement 14:05 Dealing with weather and elk response 15:56 Elk bedding areas and pressure effects 17:54 Strategies for hunting pressured elk 20:04 Reflections on hunting with his son and future plans

  • #257
    September 24 · 1 hr 13 min

    Ep. 256 Bowhunting, Archery & Innovation w/Isaac Bedford

    In this episode, Isaac Bedford shares insights on archery, hunting experiences, product development, and the importance of community in the sport. Discover practical tips, mental strategies, and the story behind Bedford Archery's innovative products. Key topics Archery tuning and equipment adjustments Mental focus and consistency in shooting Hunting experiences and challenges in BC The role of social media in growing archery Community building and youth engagement in archery Chapters 00:00 Introduction and guest overview 00:02 Hunting stories and lessons learned 00:05 Arrow mishaps and equipment failures 00:17 Comparing rifle and bow shooting at long distances 00:46 Elk hunting adventures in Fort St. John 00:51 Impact of forest fires and weather on game movement 00:56 Archery training, tournaments, and mental game 01:03 Product development and Bedford Archery's innovations 01:10 Social media's role in growing archery community 01:37 Advice for aspiring archers and community building 02:06 Future plans and closing thoughts https://bedfordarchery.com/ Instagram @isaac_bedford_archery https://www.tyeemarine.ca www.kevintoye.com

  • #255
    September 23 · 24 min

    Ep. 255 Best week to HUNT Elk.

    Kevin Toye shares his expert insights on elk hunting during the peak rut week, focusing on strategies, behavior patterns, and tips to maximize success in this critical period. Key topics Best week to hunt elk in September Elk behavior during the rut Importance of wind and scent control Strategies for locating and calling elk Understanding herd dynamics and bull behavior Adapting tactics based on elk activity levels Using terrain and cover effectively Timing and patience in elk hunting Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Elk Hunting in the Rut 02:06 The Impact of Weather and Temperature 05:02 Using Wind and Scent Control Effectively 07:14 Legal Bulls and Hunting Strategies 09:19 Social Behavior and Herd Composition 11:37 Staying on Bulls and Timing Your Shots 14:01 Bull Fatigue and Protective Behavior 16:54 Locating Bulls and Using Terrain 17:54 Approaching Cows and Using Calls Effectively 18:32 Elk Breeding and Activity During the Day 19:58 Avoiding Bumping Elk and Stealth Tactics 20:58 Building Up to Challenging Bulls 21:34 Getting Close and Making the Final Play 22:25 Finding Shooting Lanes and Safety 23:20 Final Approach and Waiting for the Right Moment 24:15 Legal Bulls and Rut Activity 25:00 Persistence and Not Giving Up 26:01 Weekend Hunting Opportunities 27:13 Kevin’s Personal Hunting Strategy 28:39 Engagement and Community Building www.kevintoye.com

  • #252
    September 22 · 1 hr 8 min

    Ep. 254 Big Mule Deer Bucks, Cold Calling & Hot Bulls.

    In this episode, Kevin and Landen discuss elk hunting strategies, recent hunting experiences, and the importance of adaptable tactics in the field. They share insights on calling sequences, shot planning, and managing expectations during the hunting season. Key topics Elk calling techniques and sequences Managing expectations during hunting season Shot planning and ethical considerations Adapting to elk behavior and terrain Recent hunting experiences and lessons learned Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Recent Hunting Updates 00:03 Kevin's Update on Muck's Injury and Recovery 00:09 Kevin and Landen Discuss Elk Hunting Strategies 00:20 Story of Landen's Recent Mule Deer Hunt 00:27 Discussion on Shot Distances and Ethical Shooting 00:45 Kevin and Landen Talk About Calling Sequences 00:59 Locating and Approaching Elk in Thick Cover 01:07 Using Trail Cameras for Elk Movement Patterns 01:24 Adjusting Calling Tactics During the Rut 01:45 Understanding Elk Behavior and Response to Calls 01:51 Kevin's Recent Challenges and Lessons Learned 02:21 The Importance of Patience and Adaptability 02:36 Closing the Distance and Setting Up for Shots 02:49 Kevin and Landen Share Hunting Stories 03:19 Final Tips and Encouragement for Hunters Muc's Elk Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RcCZRzt4QJ8&t=1042s www.kevintoye.com

  • #251
    September 20 · 34 min

    Ep 253 7 Bulls, A Grizzly and my head in the cross hairs

    Kevin shares his intense elk hunting day, covering calling techniques, encounters with bears, and lessons learned from a challenging day in the backcountry. Key topics Calf calling and its appropriate use Handling unexpected bear encounters Strategies for locating and calling elk Importance of preparation and safety in the backcountry Lessons learned from a challenging hunting day Chapters 00:00 Introduction and overview of the day's hunt 00:36 Kevin's morning encounter with elk and a grizzly bear 01:59 Discussion on calf calling and its appropriate use 04:42 Kevin's approach to calling in different elk environments 07:45 Dealing with elk and the importance of not overcalling 09:33 A wild bear charge and how to respond 16:55 Reflecting on the bear encounter and safety lessons 23:38 Encounter with other hunters and field observations 28:00 Glass and spotting activity, and a broken truck window 29:34 Deciding to head home and reflections on the day Please visit www.kevintoye.com

  • #250
    September 17 · 29 min

    Ep. 252 How MICRO sucks make you a better hunter/dad/dude.

    Kevin Toye shares insights from his recent hunting trip, emphasizing the importance of doing hard things daily, hunting with family, and managing expectations. He discusses his experiences in the field, the mental approach to challenges, and the value of persistence and preparation. Key Topics The importance of doing small hard things daily Hunting with family and the value of time outdoors Managing expectations and focusing on effort over results The mental approach to challenges and persistence Lessons learned from elk hunting trips The role of micro struggles in building resilience Using outdoor experiences to develop mental toughness The impact of technology and podcasts on outdoor preparation Chapters 00:00 Introduction and overview of recent hunting trip 02:10 Hunting with family and the importance of time outdoors 05:02 Doing hard things daily and building mental toughness 08:09 The concept of micro struggles and their benefits 12:00 Recap of the recent elk hunting trip and lessons learned 15:58 Managing expectations and focusing on effort 20:03 The role of podcasts and learning during travel 24:07 Upcoming hunting plans and strategies 27:52 The importance of fun and relaxation in hunting https://www.youtube.com/@kevinltoye www.kevintoye.com

  • #249
    September 14 · 40 min

    Ep. 251 What to do when Elk Bust you.

    In this episode, Kevin shares his recent elk hunting experiences, strategies for finding and approaching elk, and tips for handling encounters and setbacks in the field. He discusses water sources, elk behavior, and how to adapt your hunting tactics to maximize success during the rut. Takeaways - Focus on water sources and transition zones during hot weather - Use wind direction and natural cover to approach elk - Be patient and avoid calling when busted by elk - Observe elk behavior to anticipate movement - Plan your hunt around elk rut patterns and social structure Chapters 00:00 Introduction and recent hunting updates 02:04 Kevin’s recent elk encounters and water sources 06:12 Scouting and approaching elk in hot weather 10:05 Finding transition zones and pinch points 15:03 Dealing with elk that cross private and public land 20:05 Observing elk behavior and herd dynamics 24:46 Handling encounters and avoiding spooking elk 29:58 Planning hunts around elk rut and behavior patterns 35:02 Using calling sequences and calling in elk 39:45 Weather challenges and field tactics Be sure to check out my YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@kevinltoye www.kevintoye.com

  • #248
    September 11 · 34 min

    Ep. 250 Early Season Success & Elk Hunting Strategies

    In this episode, Kevin shares his recent elk hunting experiences, strategies, and lessons learned from the field, emphasizing the importance of adaptable tactics and understanding elk behavior during the rut. Strategies for elk hunting early season and pre-rut Importance of wind and thermals in hunting Using calls effectively in elk hunting Adapting tactics based on elk behavior and terrain Be sure to check out https://www.youtube.com/@kevinltoye

  • #247
    September 8 · 57 min

    Ep. 249 "Tim Gillingham" Unfiltered

    Kevin Toye sits down with professional archer and outspoken bowhunter Tim Gillingham for a raw, unfiltered deep dive into modern archery and bowhunting. They break down Bowhunter Games and 3D archery, how these events expose the truth about your hunting bow setup, and what it really takes to be accurate under pressure. Tim calls out the realities of archery influencers and social media “experts,” sharing how to spot real bowhunting knowledge versus hype when it comes to arrow builds, broadheads, and trending gear. He also delivers the straight truth on Hamskea, limb-driven rests, tuning tactics, and the bowhunting setups he trusts for elk, mule deer, and whitetails. If you’re searching for real-world bowhunting setups, Hamskea tuning insight, Bowhunter Games info, and no-BS archery talk from one of the most respected pros in the game, this episode is a must-listen. https://www.instagram.com/gillingham.tim/ More Podcast on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLF0TG-wvN_-8 Tune into my audio Podcast and WIN! https://focushuntingpodcast.podbean.com/ or go to www.kevintoye.com

  • #246
    September 3 · 21 min

    Ep. 248 Opening Day Elk & Thermals

    Kevin shares his insights from his opening day elk hunt, focusing on thermals, wind, and hunting strategies in challenging conditions. He discusses how understanding thermals and topography can improve success and shares personal experiences and tips. Topics Thermal dynamics and their impact on elk hunting Wind management and safety in the field Personal experiences and lessons learned during the hunt Strategies for hunting in challenging weather conditions The importance of topography and landscape features in hunting Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kevin’s Elk Hunt and Focus on Thermals 01:52 Kevin’s Morning Hunt and Challenges with Wind 03:47 The Role of Thermals in Elk Behavior and Hunting 07:08 Impact of Weather Conditions and Landscape on Thermals 10:00 Strategies for Using Thermals to Your Advantage 13:03 Understanding Topography and Its Effect on Thermals 15:59 Wind Management and Safety Tips 19:03 Using Clouds and Weather Patterns to Predict Wind 22:05 Positioning and Setup for Effective Calling 24:03 Recap and Final Tips for Elk Hunters

  • #245
    August 30 · 1 hr 23 min

    Ep. 247 Emergency Elk Strategies

    In this episode, Derek and Kevin share expert tips on Elk hunting, focusing on adapting strategies to changing conditions like forest fires and pressure, and emphasizing the importance of gear, terrain, and timing. In this episode, Derek and Kevin share practical insights on elk hunting, gear management, and strategies for success in the field. They discuss tracking, gear optimization, and the mental aspects of hunting under pressure, providing valuable tips for hunters aiming to improve their skills. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hunting Challenges in 2023 00:01 Pressure Management and Elk Response 41:19 Tracking blood trails and landmarks 42:13 Gear reuse and cleaning tips 42:50 Using gloves for butchering and blood protection 44:33 Maintaining gear and pack hygiene 45:52 Optimal use of game bags and packing out 48:38 Clothing and rain gear for backcountry hunts 50:45 Essential gear: headlamps, batteries, and navigation 53:19 Battery management and gear consolidation 54:19 Overpacking and gear efficiency 55:19 Recap of last year's intense hunt 55:59 Preparation and mental toughness 58:26 Adapting to terrain and elk behavior 1:00:23 Approaching elk and calling techniques 1:02:39 Shooting and tracking elk after the shot 1:07:22 Post-shot recovery and animal behavior 1:09:41 Understanding elk sign and rut patterns 1:12:11 Tracking and following elk in tough terrain 1:14:22 Dealing with bumped animals and recovery 1:16:24 Planning and executing long hikes for elk 1:18:44 Strategies for hunting pressured areas 1:19:41 The importance of pressure and elk movement 1:20:18 Preparing for the upcoming season 1:21:25 Closing remarks and encouragement for hunters More Podcast on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLF0TG-wvN_-8 Tune into my audio Podcast and WIN! https://focushuntingpodcast.podbean.com/ or go to www.kevintoye.com

  • #244
    August 28 · 1 hr 8 min

    Ep. 246 Elk Hunting Mistakes you MIGHT be making.

    Elk season is here, and this episode is a deep dive into elk hunting strategy, calling, and mindset with elite coach and veteran elk hunter Matt Hartsky of Backbone Unlimited. Matt has killed 29 bulls and helped his 23-year-old son notch 9 elk already, and he breaks down exactly how he thinks about elk behavior, terrain, and preparation. We cover how to locate elk without relying on bugles, how to hunt high‑pressure public land elk, and why understanding wind, thermals, security cover, bedding areas, feeding areas, and transition zones matters more than the latest gear. Matt explains his “hunt audit” system, how he dissects e‑scouting maps (OnX, Google Earth), and how he builds A–B–C–D plans inside a single elk hunting area. Key topics Elk hunting background and personal journey Importance of wind and thermals in elk hunting Using terrain and transition zones effectively The role of failure and persistence in hunting success Developing mental toughness and backbone Elk hunting courses and training camps Adapting strategies for different regions and pressures The significance of timing and peak rut behavior Be sure to check out all Matt's stuff over at https://backboneunlimited.com/ More Podcast on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLF0TG-wvN_-8 Tune into my audio Podcast and WIN! https://focushuntingpodcast.podbean.com/ or go to www.kevintoye.com

  • #243
    August 26 · 1 hr 18 min

    Ep. 245 Last minute Elk Tactics: Pinch Points, Transitions areas, Mule Deer & Shot Placement

    In this episode, Kevin Toye and Landen share insights on elk and mule deer hunting strategies, shot placement, gear choices, and the evolution of hunting technology. They discuss practical tips for success in the field and reflect on their hunting experiences. Topics Elk hunting strategies and season timing Mule deer bedding and movement patterns Shot placement and broadhead selection Gear choices including binos and rangefinders Thermal management and wind considerations Use of pinch points and transition zones Impact of technology on hunting success Personal experiences and lessons learned • PODCAST Please visit www.kevintoye.com

  • #242
    August 25 · 1 hr 1 min

    Ep. 244 Supertune your HUNTING Bow - Kellen Morgan

    Unlock the full potential of your hunting bow in this tuning masterclass with renowned bow tech Kellen Morgan of Inside Out Precision. With decades of experience, Kellen explains exactly how to supertune your hunting setup for maximum accuracy, forgiveness, and broadhead performance in real-world conditions. We dive into what really matters in bow tuning, how to get fixed-blade broadheads and field points hitting together, choosing the right arrow spine, weight, and F.O.C., and how cam lean, timing, center shot, and rest alignment affect consistency. Kellen also breaks down the biggest tuning mistakes bowhunters make, how the industry has changed over the last five years, and what actually works for elk, whitetail, and Western spot-and-stalk setups. If you want a deadly accurate compound bow for hunting, this episode gives you the practical tuning process and pro insights to build a setup you can trust when it counts. https://www.instagram.com/inside_out_precision https://www.instagram.com/kevinltoye

  • #241
    August 18 · 1 hr 28 min

    Ep. 243 Why Elk Ignore You: Pitch & Cadence Mistakes Nobody Talks About

    In this episode, with Derek, we dive deep into the advanced elk vocal tactics that separate average callers from consistent killers. We break down how to hit the right pitch, tone, and cadence so you stop sounding like a hunter and start sounding like a real elk. Derek explains the subtle calling mistakes that cause bulls to hang up, go silent, or slide away, and how tiny tweaks in your sounds can completely change how elk respond. If you’ve been practicing your calls but still aren’t getting the reactions you want, this pre-season tune-up will help you dial everything in so you’re ready when the woods light up. www.kevintoye.com

  • #240
    August 15 · 1 hr 16 min

    Ep. 242 Joe Rogan, Arrows, Broadheads & Accountability Guest Bergy Bowsmith

    In this episode I am joined by Jesse Bruggenthies aka Bergy Bowsmith. Jesse shares insights on bow setup, arrow tuning, and the importance of proper equipment calibration for hunting success. We share, compare and discuss our training routines, gear adjustments, and the mental aspects of archery and life. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Jesse's Bow Setup 04:32 Discussing Arrow Setup and Tuning 08:44 Arrow Spine and Durability Insights 12:10 The Importance of Knock Tuning 15:45 Building Confidence in Equipment 20:01 Fletching and Broadhead Choices 24:11 Broadhead Preferences and Testing 30:52 Stabilizer Length and Setup 36:28 First and Second Axis Calibration 45:23 Training and Fitness Routines 53:08 Balancing Work, Life, and Training 01:00:21 Mental Approach and Confidence in Archery 01:08:48 Parenting, Struggle, and Life Lessons https://bergybowsmith.com

  • #239
    August 12 · 1 hr 2 min

    Ep. 241 Smoke, Strategy & Success: Early Season Mule Deer

    In this episode, Kevin chats with Steve Rodgers about mule deer hunting strategies, dealing with injuries, and navigating challenging weather conditions like smoke and drought. They share insights on scouting, gear, and adapting to changing deer and elk habits, offering valuable tips for hunters facing tough conditions. Steve on Instagram @muliecrazie Please check out my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@kevinltoye

  • #238
    August 7 · 1 hr 18 min

    Ep. 240 Successful Early Season Elk Tactics. Gear & Calling

    Kevin Toye and Landen break down how they’re preparing for elk season while balancing real life, heavy workloads, and limited training time. They cover the practical side of elk hunting from fitness and calling to bedding areas, thermals, and gear choices that actually matter in the field.

  • #237
    August 6 · 1 hr 5 min

    Ep. 239 Waves of Life: Balancing Family, Training and the Mountain Grind

    In this episode, Kevin is joined by Adam Janke, host of the Beyond the Kill podcast. They dive into the intersection of hunting, parenting, and personal growth. They get real about balancing family life and fatherhood with bowhunting, rifle hunting, and backcountry hunting, and how year-round fitness, scouting, and time in the mountains shape them as hunters and as men. They explore how struggle, failure, injuries, and setbacks in training and in the field build mental toughness, discipline, and resilience traits that carry directly into parenting and leading at home. From dialing in shooting and fitness to learning animal behavior and woodsmanship, Kevin and Adam show how the relentless pursuit of becoming a better hunter fuels growth in every area of life. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and catching up 02:01 Parenting, family, and life in waves 03:50 Kids' sports and supporting their goals 06:56 Balancing help and struggle in kids' development 10:07 The importance of struggle in life and training 15:12 Discipline, firmness, and context in parenting 19:55 Training routines, injuries, and lessons learned 24:59 Maintaining motivation and avoiding boredom in training 30:02 Balancing training, recovery, and life demands 34:58 Opportunities in US hunting and building points 40:05 Elk hunting strategies and timing in Wyoming 45:07 The thrill of hunting and trophy considerations 49:52 US vs. Canadian hunting management and opportunities 55:08 The value of reps and experience in hunting 01:00:09 Archery practice, skill development, and quality reps 01:03:27 Preparing for high-altitude hunts and physical readiness https://journalofmountainhunting.com Please head over to the YT channel and subscribe https://www.youtube.com/@kevinltoye

  • #236
    July 30 · 1 hr 3 min

    Ep. 238 Aiming for Greatness: Mathias Fullerton’s Journey to #1

    In this episode, Kevin sits down with World number one archer Mathias Fullerton. Mathias reveals what it really takes to reach and stay at the top of elite archery. From his early days training in Denmark to competing on the world stage, Mathias shares how discipline, resilience, and sports psychology shaped his journey. He explains his mental training and visualization techniques, how he handles pressure as a top‑ranked archer, and the physical preparation and injury prevention that keep him performing at his best. Mathias also talks about setbacks and failure, and how he turns tough moments into fuel for his Olympic dreams. If you’re interested in archery, Olympic sports, athlete mindset, or the mental side of high. performance, this episode offers practical insights you can apply to your own goals. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: Mathias Fullerton's Rise in Archery 01:58 The Journey to World Number One 04:01 Learning New Disciplines and Overcoming Challenges 05:01 Sharing the Number One Spot with Mike 06:03 Dealing with Pressure as the Top Ranked Archer 07:07 Training Regimen and Physical Fitness 08:54 Handling Failure and Setbacks 11:00 Preparation for Major Tournaments and the Olympics 12:58 Mental Strategies: Visualization and Focus 14:50 The Role of Support Teams and Funding 16:53 Balancing Personal Life and Elite Training 18:48 The Importance of Consistency and Routine 21:06 The Future of Archery and Olympic Goals 23:02 Legacy and What It Means to Be a Champion Resources https://www.instagram.com/mathiasfullerton/ https://www.youtube.com/@MathiasFullerton Please subscribe to my YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@kevinltoye

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