Ep. 65 - The Heartbeat of the Hunt with Janis Putelis: Chronicles of Family, Nature, and the MeatEater Legacy

Son of a Blitch

In the latest podcast episode, Janis Putelis, a pivotal figure in the MeatEater community, shares the tapestry of his life story, weaving in threads of family, the lure of the wilderness, and the rituals that bind them.
The episode opens with Janis reminiscing about his Michigan roots, where his father's influence and the woods of Wisconsin shaped his early outdoor experiences. His journey from those formative years to guiding in Colorado, and eventually meeting up with Steve Rinella to join the MeatEater family, illustrates a life intertwined with the rhythms of nature. Janis' transition from a hunter to a mentor and media personality is a testament to his evolving relationship with the wild. His anecdotes about creating content for MeatEater's YouTube channel and returning to his ancestral homeland of Latvia add layers of depth to his story, showcasing his personal and cultural connection to hunting.
The discussion shifts focus to the crucial aspect of introducing children to hunting and the great outdoors. Janis emphasizes the importance of gentle exposure, celebrating each child's unique pace of embracing nature. Through his experiences at turkey camps in Montana and deer camps in Wisconsin, Janis stresses the value of not pushing kids too hard. The narrative of his family participating in hunts without coercion offers a blueprint for parents seeking to cultivate a love for nature in their offspring.
Janis' first visit to his fatherland of Latvia at 44 years old, unveils a chapter filled with anticipation and cultural immersion. His solo trip, prompted by an invite from a Latvian hunting magazine writer, was a pivotal moment of self-discovery. As he prepares for his next family trip to Latvia, Janis reflects on the significance of imparting his heritage to his children. The narrative then delves into the traditional Latvian hunting practices, where respect for the game and community values underscore the hunting experience.
Further along, Janis describes the inner workings of a European hunting club, revealing the traditions and processes that shape a member's journey from driver to shooter. The club's model underscores a balanced approach to hunting that honors sport, tradition, and sustainability. Janis' experiences with this communal aspect of hunting highlight the profound respect for nature that permeates through every facet of the pursuit.
The conversation takes a delicious turn as Janis shares tales of transforming the day's hunt into delectable meals. His culinary expertise, shaped by years in a professional kitchen, is evident as he discusses practical and efficient cooking methods that bring wild game to the family table. From preparing shredded turkey meat for various dishes to making Italian-flavored meatballs in bulk, Janis' approach to cooking is both foundational and innovative, emphasizing the joys of homemade meals to share with his family and close friends.
The episode then takes a stride into Janis' personal health journey. His pursuit of ultra-marathons and his commitment to fitness for life is a narrative of transformation and determination. Janis' dedication to staying fit for the hunt and for his family is an inspiration to listeners seeking to make a lifestyle change.
In the final segment, Janis' reflects on his role at MeatEater, his views on fame, and the impact of his work. His focus remains on being a great dad and partner, striving for a positive influence through promoting outdoor activities and conservation. The discussion about MeatEater's content, initiatives, and Janis' role within the organization highlights his dedication to fostering a better world through engagement with nature.
TheMeatEater.com
Latvian Trip episodes
IG: Janis_Putelis

Chapters

1. Giannis Poutelis (00:00:00)

2. Introducing Kids to Hunting Traditions (00:11:15)

3. Latvian Hunting Culture and Family Heritage (00:23:55)

4. European Hunting Club Tradition and Process (00:30:03)

5. Hunting Adventures and Wild Game Meals (00:42:20)

6. Cooking, Food, and Kitchen Experiences (00:51:41)

7. Embracing Running for Health and Adventure (01:00:02)

8. Legacy, Family, & MeatEater (01:06:04)