In this episode, we are joined by Chef Jean-Paul Bourgeois—an acclaimed chef, storyteller, and outdoorsman whose passion for Southern cuisine is matched only by his love for hunting, fishing, and the great outdoors. Chef Jean-Paul brings a deep appreciation for food, tradition, and the stories that connect us, from his roots in Louisiana to cooking across the country.

In this episode of The Storied Outdoors, we sit down with Chef Jean-Paul Bourgeois, a man whose love for the outdoors is as rich and deeply rooted as his passion for Southern cuisine. We start by exploring his upbringing in Louisiana, where his connection to the land and water first took hold. Jean-Paul remembers the moments of broken down boats and times in the duck blind that sparked his love for the outdoors, setting the stage for a life intertwined with food, tradition, and adventure.

We then dive into his journey toward a career in the culinary arts—how he found his way into the kitchen and the influences that shaped him as a chef. Much like a musician is molded by the songs they learn and the artists they admire, Jean-Paul reflects on the chefs, experiences, and flavors that have left a lasting mark on his cooking. From kitchens from New York City, all the way to France, to time spent in the field and on the water, he shares how his love for hunting and fishing has found its way back into his career and personal life.

But beyond the food and the wild places, Jean-Paul opens up about something even more profound. He recently shared a moment on Instagram—his baptism in the ocean. We talk about what led him to that powerful decision, what he remembers about that day, and the significance of experiencing such a life-changing moment.

We discuss faith, food, and the pursuit of a life well-seasoned with stories and adventure. You won’t want to miss this one.

Visit Jean'-Paul’s website: www.jeanpaulbourgeois.com

Watch Duck Camp Dinners presented by Meat Eater: Watch Here

In this action-packed episode of The Storied Outdoors, Brad and Bryan reunite with some unforgettable past guests for an adventure that will go down in the record books. Joining them are Captain Blake Walters, aka the Fairhope Fly Guy, along with Dr. Hank Hershey and Dr. Hugh Cheek, as they relive a truly epic day of fly fishing for redfish.

From poling skiffs through glassy marsh waters to heart-pounding moments of fish on (and fish lost), this episode captures the thrill, camaraderie, and storytelling that make time on the water so special. We dive into Bryan’s milestone moment—landing his very first saltwater fish on the fly—along with the inevitable tales of the ones that got away.

With plenty of laughs, unforgettable memories, and a celebration of the great outdoors, this is one conversation you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just love a good fishing tale, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and enjoy the ride!

🎣🐟 Keywords: Fly fishing, redfish, saltwater fly fishing, outdoor adventure, fishing podcast, Gulf Coast fishing, poling skiff, fishing stories, The Storied Outdoors, Captain Blake Walters, Fairhope Fly Guy.

Season 10 Premiere: A Reunion of Storytellers, Adventure, and Reflection

The Storied Outdoors podcast kicks off its tenth season with an unforgettable gathering of past guests and friends, celebrating 10 seasons of storytelling, adventure, and the pursuit of meaning in the great outdoors. Hosts Brad Hill and Bryan Gill are joined in person by Dr. Hank Hershey, Dr. Hugh Cheek, and Mobile-area fishing guide Blake Walters for a fireside-style conversation filled with wild tales, deep reflections, and a look ahead at what’s to come.

We dive into the heart of The Storied Outdoors—why we tell these stories and the lasting impact they carry. Hugh shares a gripping account of floating through Kentucky’s wild waters, finding himself lying in the iconic bluegrass, staring up at the vast sky, and contemplating life’s bigger picture.

As we set the stage for an exciting new season, we drop hints about upcoming episodes that promise even more adventure, wisdom, and insight. Join us as we celebrate our 10th season of finding clarity in the stories we tell and the adventures that shape us.

Listen now and be part of the journey! 🎧🏕️🎣