Check out what the guys had to say about wild turkeys and conservation.
One person says this. Another says that. But everyone is saying wild turkeys are in decline. America's beloved bird is gradually dwindling, and it's up to hunter-conservationists to determine why.
Two individuals striving on this front include Ben O'Brien and Sam Soholt, co-hosts of the Roost podcast — a turkey hunting show that encompasses all things turkey hunting and wild turkey conservation. Its motto is #forthebird, and that's about all you need to know.
According to Roostshow.com, the home of the podcast, O'Brien and Soholt are quite the duo. The former loves fried turkey and the sound of a sweet purr but hates early fly-downs and plucking whole birds. The latter loves fresh latex on a diaphragm and heart-rattling gobbles but hates putts, dry diaphragms, and wet slates.
TFT's very own CEO Jason Lupardus agrees wholeheartedly, and they all got along just fine in a recent episode of the Roost. Now, they're working together in an even greater capacity.
"We formed a partnership with the Roost, and these guys are just as crazy about turkeys as we are," Lupardus said. They both have a lot of background in the outdoor arena and travel around showcasing why we need these birds. They tell the stories around everything turkeys, predator management, and the whole nine yards.
Of course, that closely mirrors TFT's mission, objectives, and overall focus. As awareness of the true decline for wild turkey populations deepens, others will see it, too.
"It's almost perfect alignment of the things that we talk about," Lupardus said. "We are their sponsor this year.
"We'll produce podcast interviews with them, along with some videography and content collected in the field," Lupardus continued. "We'll talk about turkeys, turkey hunting, and all aspects of conservation — from trapping to management."
Follow Ben O'Brien, Sam Soholt, and the Roost podcast for turkey hunting and conservation updates from February through June.
Support TFT: Wild turkey populations are on the decline throughout the nation. Established in 2021, TFT is new to the landscape, but it's driven by highly trained professionals with decades of conservation experience. To support TFT, and the complete body of wild turkey research and conservation it's leading, become a member today. An Adult Annual Membership is $50, multi-year Team Turkey Membership is $250, and Life Membership is $2,500. Every dollar counts in the fight for wild turkey preservation.