Ep. 66 - Conveying The Truth About Hunting, Conservation and Storytelling w/ Robbie Kroger

Son of a Blitch

Embarking on an insightful dialogue, George Blitch welcomes Robbie Kroger, the founder of Blood Origins, into a conversation that not only traverses the terrains of Kroger's life but also delves into the intricacies of hunting and its role in conservation. Growing up in Johannesburg, Robbie did not hunt in his youth, but the influence of his grandfather and his transformative experience in the Okavango Delta ignited his passion for wildlife and the great outdoors. Aspiring to be a game ranger, he developed an appreciation for nature that would eventually lead him down the path to establishing Blood Origins, a platform dedicated to the education and awareness of hunting's role in preserving our natural world.
The journey from Robbie's early years to the creation of Blood Origins was far from linear. Before his foray into the realm of conservation, Robbie pursued professional soccer, making his mark as a goalkeeper and later serving as a goalkeeper coach at Mississippi State University. Despite his achievements in sports and academia, the call to the wild, inspired by his grandfather's written accounts of hunting and adventure, was a constant undertone in his life. It was this legacy, etched on rice paper, that sowed the seeds for Blood Origins, which sought to share authentic hunting stories and shed light on hunters as conservationists.
Blood Origins evolved from a personal project into a non-profit organization that remains fiercely independent, allowing for a powerful and genuine narrative. The initiative thrives on being nimble and quick to respond to conservation challenges, with a focus on telling compelling stories that span continents. Robbie's efforts have led to documentaries and projects, including the documentation of the Fiordland Wapiti Foundation's work in New Zealand, and conservation efforts in Zambia, Tanzania and beyond. Blood Origins also examines contentious topics, such as mountain lion hunting in the United States, emphasizing the critical importance of education in these complex debates.
In this episode, Robbie Kroger's anecdotes highlight the importance of balance in the ecosystem and the need for thoughtful communication in the face of criticism. Through Blood Origins, he strives to reshape the conversation around hunting, aiming to reach an equilibrium that acknowledges hunting as an enduring tradition while promoting its integral role in conservation.
As the podcast episode unfolds, Robbie and George discuss future projects and the value of community support, inviting listeners to become a part of Blood Origins' mission. The episode culminates in a profound discussion on legacy, both professionally and personally, as Robbie expresses his desire to change perceptions of hunting globally and his commitment to being an affectionate and present family man, contrasting the more reserved nature of past generations.
This podcast episode not only offers a glimpse into the life of a man who transitioned from city life to wildlife guardianship but also serves as a testament to the power of storytelling and its potential to foster change in the conservation narrative. It is a clarion call for all who cherish the wild and are invested in its future, showcasing the indelible mark that informed and passionate individuals can leave on the world.
To learn more about Blood Origins, and to become a supporting member, visit:
BloodOrigins.org

Chapters

1. Passion for Wildlife and Conservation (00:00:00)

2. Exploring Career Paths and Family Legacy (00:07:18)

3. Soccer Journey (00:14:08)

4. Evolution of Blood Origins and Impact (00:22:48)

5. Conservation Efforts in Hunting Community (00:29:37)

6. Mountain Lion Hunting Debate and Education (00:36:26)

7. Celebrity Hunting and Conservation Projects (00:44:44)

8. Supporter Program and Conservation Club Discussion (00:55:50)