Hunter, conservation, and community collide in this eye-opening conversation about Kentucky’s innovative venison donation program. Discover how hunters are not only filling their freezers but also transforming lives—turning surplus deer into hundreds of thousands of meals for food-insecure families. If you’ve ever wondered how your next hunt could do more than just fill the freezer, this episode reveals the inspiring details behind one of the most impactful wildlife programs in the country.
Tom Waters, a seasoned hunter and volunteer with Kentucky Hunters for the Hungry, shares why more hunters need to donate their extra deer—and how simple steps like field dressing and dropping off at a participating processor can generate thousands of meals with zero cost to the hunter. You’ll learn how this grassroots effort has donated over 7 million meals since 2000, helping families battling food insecurity, seniors choosing between medicine and meals, and children receiving nutritious snacks. Tom dives into the logistics, federal regulations, and critical partnerships with wildlife agencies that make it all possible.
We break down the key obstacles facing expansion—including declining hunter participation, the importance of educating the public about the good hunting does, and how hunters can play a role in community health and conservation. You'll discover specific strategies to encourage more donations, leverage hunting seasons, and build awareness through social media and outdoor events. Plus, hear how the program navigates USDA rules, state regulations, and the challenges of managing excess supply, ensuring quality meat reaches those in need safely and efficiently.
This episode is perfect for hunters eager to give back, conservationists looking for scalable models, and anyone interested in the broader impact of hunting beyond the sport. Whether you’re in Iowa, Kentucky, or anywhere with deer hunting, the actionable insights shared here will inspire you to see your next deer in a whole new light—one that benefits society and strengthens the hunting community.Join us as we explore the powerful role of hunters as providers and community heroes. Every deer donated isn’t just meat—it’s a lifeline. Tune in to learn how small actions create monumental change and how you can be part of this impactful movement.
Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code SE for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.com
Check out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/hunting and enter EMPIRE25 for an awesome discount.
Check Out www.outdoorsy.com and enter EMPIRE to have your service fees removed.
Underbrush Remineralizing Gum from Nathan and Sons https://nathanandsons.com/products/remineralizing-gum
Our Sponsors:
* Check out Nathan and Sons at https://nathanandsons.com
* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code EMPIRE for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com
* Check out Troll Co Clothing and use my code EMPIRE25 for a great deal: https://www.trollco.com/hunting
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
