The Hunting Matters podcast, presented by Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) and hosted by HSCF Executive Director Joe Betar, welcomes Chris Conrad, founder and owner of Republic Boot Co., as the featured guest on this week’s episode of the Hunting Matters podcast.

A Houston native and lifelong Texan, Chris Conrad founded Republic Boot Co. in 2011 with a mission to preserve and celebrate Texas heritage through handcrafted cowboy boots. What began as a small shop in Houston’s Heights has grown into one of the state’s most respected bootmakers — known for its exceptional craftsmanship, immersive experience, and deep connection to Texas culture.

In this episode, Conrad shares how hunting has shaped his life and values, his belief that hunters are vital stewards of Texas’ land and traditions, and how Republic Boot Co. draws inspiration from the experience of the hunt to create heirloom-quality boots that tell a story.

Listeners will also hear insights into Conrad’s entrepreneurial journey, his family’s deep Houston roots dating back to the 1800s, and how his background in engineering helped shape a modern approach to heritage bootmaking.

Hunting Matters is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other major podcast platforms, as well as at https://hscfdn.org/hunting-matters-podcast/.

About Hunting Matters

Hunting Matters is the official, award-winning podcast of the Houston Safari Club Foundation. Featuring hunters, conservationists, outdoor professionals, and thought leaders, each episode dives deep into the stories that shape the future of wildlife and hunting heritage.

About Houston Safari Club Foundation

HSCF is a Houston-based nonprofit dedicated to preserving the sport of hunting through education, conservation, and the promotion of our hunting heritage. Learn more at wehuntwegive.org.