Every experienced backcountry hunter knows that it isn’t a question of if you will face an obstacle on your hunt, but when that difficulty is coming. Whether it’s a sudden mountain storm, a blown stalk, unexpected hunting pressure, or a target animal that seemingly disappears into thin air, the true separator between success and failure isn't your gear—it's your mindset.
In this second episode of our 2026 Expert Roundtable series, we sit down with veteran hunters Nate Simmons, Brad Brooks, Ben Reynolds, and Isaac Deuling to break down the mental game of backcountry hunting. The guys pull back the curtain to discuss past struggles and the mindset they use to stay in the game when things go wrong.
Inside this episode, you’ll learn:
- Brad Brooks on why tomorrow is always better than today, how to build confidence through experience, and the "hunting superpower" of tuning out digital distractions.
- Ben Reynolds on the power of processus desiderus (loving the process), why "hard" is just a mental construct, and why the offseason is the right place to test your mental limits.
- Isaac Deuling on a guide’s golden rule: never plant a "seed of negativity," and how to maintain group morale when the elements or the animals refuse to cooperate.
- Nate Simmons on recognizing when a devastating situation is actually a "prerequisite to success," and how to force yourself to make the best decision instead of the easiest one.
Whether you are gearing up for a grueling solo backpack hunt or heading into the wilderness with a partner, this episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom that will reshape how you react when things don't go your way.
All Roundtable Episodes: https://exomtngear.com/roundtable
YOUR QUESTIONS, ANSWERED...
We love hearing from listeners and answering their questions on future podcast episodes. If you have a question about the episode above, or other questions on hunting tactics and strategies, gear, Exo products, or anything else related to backcountry hunting, send us an email with your question or use your device to leave us a voice message below...