Five-time national fiddle champion Jacie Sites joins High Country and Handmade to discuss her musical journey, moving back to Pendleton, and forming her new band, the Knit Pickers.

Jacie explains her teaching philosophy, practice tips, the difference between fiddle and violin, and how she helps students reach competition and performance success while exploring diverse fiddle styles and recording projects.

This episode blends inspiring stories, practical advice for musicians and makers, and a look at Jacie’s current projects including private lessons, an online subscription site, and upcoming concerts.

Andrew Levick of 360 Sportsman and Wildlife Creations walks through practical trapping techniques—from boiling and waxing traps to freeze-proofing sets, baiting cubbies, and using lures like Gusto. He explains trap placement, using multiple traps per location, and tips for bobcat and coyote lines.

The episode also shares real-season stories from North Idaho and Montana, working with hounds, taxidermy ties to land access, safety around dogs and snares, and how to balance trapping with hunting and shop life.

Kevin Thomas shares his journey from Kentucky roots and a hand-me-down guitar to quitting a steady federal job and pursuing outlaw country full time. He talks about writing, co-writing, playing covers, the grind of social media and touring, and the financial and personal sacrifices required for a music career.

The episode also covers his upcoming UK tour and collaborations, his views on success and independence, and the balance of supporting family while chasing creative freedom and growth.

Chase Richburg, a Texas country singer-songwriter, joins the podcast to talk about his music career, last-minute bookings, and opening for bigger acts. He shares stories from life on the road and growing as an artist while releasing new music.

The conversation also dives into hunting adventures — bear hunting, hound seasons, Montana trips, and gear mishaps — plus reflections on regional differences, country music authenticity, and upcoming song releases.

Nathan Putnam of Putnam Pack Coats talks about raising and training pack goats, designing lightweight aluminum saddles and panniers, and tailoring gear for backcountry hunters. He explains breed choices, horn care and heat management, and the custom approach behind his equipment.

The episode also shares vivid backcountry stories — hounds, bear encounters, GPS tracking and the risks of deep wilderness work — and offers practical resources for beginners (North American Pack Goat Association and PutnamPackCoats.com).

Anna Westcoat joins the podcast to talk about her musical upbringing, playing dozens of instruments, and honoring old-school country traditions while navigating modern platforms like TikTok and Spotify.

The conversation covers songwriting, performing, creative routines, balancing family and art, leatherwork and outdoors life, and the value of slowing down to appreciate community and craft.