Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) welcomes South Texas ranch manager and HSCF Vice President Leo Martinez and his daughter, Madison Martinez, to the latest episode of the Hunting Matters podcast.
The father-daughter duo joins the podcast to discuss their lives at Dancing Elk Alexander Ranch, better known as DEA Ranch, in Mathis, Texas, and the important connection between ranching, hunting, wildlife management, conservation and family.
With nearly four decades of experience in the ranching and hunting industry, Leo Martinez has spent his career managing land and natural resources while carrying forward a family legacy rooted in South Texas ranching. Born in Freer, Texas, Leo was inspired by his grandfather, who worked for decades as a cowboy and ranch foreman. Since 1986, Leo has managed multiple ranch operations and developed a reputation for ethical hunting, wildlife stewardship, and sustainable natural resource management.
Today, as ranch manager of DEA Ranch, Leo oversees an operation specializing in native and exotic animal hunting, beef cattle production, and event hosting. The ranch offers hunting opportunities for white-tailed deer, elk, exotic game, and birds while maintaining a focus on responsible land and wildlife management.
Leo was named HSCF's 2025 Outfitter of the Year.
Joining him on the podcast is his daughter, Madison, who is actively involved in the family ranching operation and represents the next generation carrying that legacy forward. Together, Leo and Madison provide a unique perspective on the importance of passing down the knowledge, values and stewardship responsibilities that come with managing land and wildlife.
The conversation also highlights DEA Ranch's recent role in hosting HSCF's inaugural Summer Youth Conservation Education Program. The program brought young people to the ranch for hands-on experiences designed to connect them with wildlife, conservation, ranching, and outdoor traditions.
The episode offers listeners an inside look at the people and principles behind a working South Texas ranch while exploring a larger question facing the hunting and conservation community: How do we ensure the land, wildlife, and outdoor traditions we value today remain available to future generations?
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. Hunting Matters is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other major podcast platforms, as well as at https://hscfdn.org/hunting-matters-podcast/.
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.