From catching snakes to following wounded lions, Ross Johnston has made a career out of running toward the things most people run away from. In this episode of This Is Africa Podcast, Andy sits down with one of Zimbabwe's most fascinating bushmen—a professional hunter, snake expert, and K9 handler who's spent a lifetime working where things can go wrong in a heartbeat.

Ross tells the story of how he left photographic safaris behind in pursuit of dangerous game, explaining why life behind a camera is a world away from following wounded animals through thick African bush. The conversation slithers into Ross's lifelong obsession with snakes—including his once-famous collection of nearly 280 indigenous species—and the truth about black mambas, boomslangs, puff adders, and the snake myths that refuse to die.

Then the stories get even wilder. Ross shares the brutal lessons learned as a young apprentice, tense problem-animal control operations, buffalo encounters that nearly went sideways, tracking lions with dogs, elephant charges that get the heart racing, and the leopard follow-up that no one in the hunting party will ever forget.

Packed with bush wisdom, dark humour, unforgettable close calls, and a healthy respect for Africa's most dangerous wildlife, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

For expert advice/help from Andy on booking your safari visit https://www.tiafive.com

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