The Forging of Men

Josh Vegors and Taylor Thurston discuss practical rifle and caliber choices for new and young hunters — from the versatile .308 and modern 6mm ARC to youth-friendly options like the .300 Blackout and 5.56.
They compare AR platforms and bolt guns, recommend budget-friendly rifles (Ruger American, Savage Axis, Palmetto State Armory), highlight affordable optics like Vortex Triumph, and share training tips: practice often, train beyond your expected field distances, and match gear to terrain.
Includes real hunt stories, shot-ethics advice, and sponsor mentions from Rugged Rosaries and First Form Supplements.

This episode breaks down why New Year's resolutions often fail and how to make change stick—focusing on the "why" instead of the flashy how. Josh Vegors and guest Sean Harding from Exodus Counseling and Mentorship discuss habit-building tactics (30-day rule, two-minute starts, micro-wins), setting short-term goals (try a Valentine’s Day resolution), and using start/stop/continue reviews.
They also explore mindset, gratitude, creating vs. consuming, mental health and mentorship through Exodus counseling, and personal examples like jiu-jitsu and family priorities to show how small, intentional steps lead to lasting growth.

This crossover episode examines Matthew 1–3, focusing on Jesus’ genealogy, Joseph’s quiet faith and protection, the flight to Egypt, and the themes of adoption and refuge.Hosts reflect on fatherhood, personal brokenness, Advent preparation, and how God redeems ordinary, flawed lives—calling listeners to act and believe.

Josh shares his 15–16 day carnivore experiment while driving home from a Colorado elk hunt, reporting rapid weight loss, improved focus, better sleep, and stronger gym performance. He and Dr. Taylor Thurston unpack what “carnivore” can mean, practical meat cuts, cooking and rendering tallow, and ways to keep variety without carbs.The episode also covers a sensible plan for short-term carnivore use, how to reintroduce vegetables systemically, and real-world tips for cooking, smoking, and stretching protein-based meals for a family.

Chad Stillman and Josh share how 1613 (Bibles & Bows) grew from a backyard idea into a large archery-based Bible study that fosters authentic, shoulder-to-shoulder community for men to read Scripture, pray, and serve together.They explain the simple weekly format, the power of shared vulnerability and prayer, practical tips for starting and scaling similar groups, and the vision to turn outdoor fellowship into tangible discipleship and outreach.

On this first-ever mobile episode of Forging of Men, host and guest Taylor Thurston road-trip home from an October elk hunt, and discuss faith, fitness and outdoor adventure. Taylor shares how he used military tuition assistance to earn multiple degrees, embraced Catholic faith and family life, and reshaped his health with carnivore eating and fasting.
The conversation also covers real-world preparation for backcountry hunting, the rewards of disconnecting in nature, and practical tips for fathers raising sons — all while recording from the truck after a Rocky Mountain hunt.

This episode follows a heartfelt conversation between two friends about the first year of fatherhood—covering surprised moments, hard nights, the radical joy of delighting in a child, and how loss and faith shaped the journey.They reflect on lessons learned, the importance of presence, the connections between spiritual fatherhood and priestly vocation, and how becoming a parent reshapes priorities, legacy, and personal growth.

Host and guest Tim Forbes trace his journey from school administrator to executive director of a vocational program for justice-involved youth, exploring how faith, mentorship, and hands-on training restore purpose and reduce recidivism.This episode covers parenting and boundary-setting in the age of social media, the value of vocational education and community, and how physical challenges like ultrarunning and hunting deepen resilience, authenticity, and reliance on faith.

In this episode, we dive into the realm of holistic health with Dr. Michael Lehman, a licensed naturopathic doctor from Washington State. Dr. Lehman shares his insights on supporting the body's natural healing processes through integrative medicine, emphasizing foundational health practices like proper nutrition, hydration, and sleep.
Join us as we explore the importance of consistency in health goals, the role of fellowship and accountability in personal growth, and the balance between self-care and caring for others. Discover the bewildering world of dietary choices, from organic options to nutritional supplements, and how to tailor these to your unique needs.
As we segue into the great outdoors, Dr. Lehman offers invaluable advice on preventing and addressing tick-borne illnesses such as Lyme disease, particularly timely during the height of turkey season and as we progress into summer. Learn preventive measures, symptom awareness, and the importance of tick checks to safeguard your health.
This episode is a rich tapestry of healthful living, blending the spiritual, physical, and communal aspects that contribute to a fulfilling life. Tune in to empower your wellness journey and embrace the full spectrum of life experiences.

This episode delves into the unexpected selection of a new Pope, highlighting the surprise and discussions it has sparked within the Catholic community and beyond. As commentators dissect the implications of electing a younger American pope, questions arise about the church's direction amidst global polarization. With insights into the historical context and challenges the Church faces, this episode explores how Pope Leo XIV might steer the religious institution through a new era, balancing tradition with the need for modern reforms. Listen as we unpack the complexities and potential impacts of this significant moment in the Catholic Church's history.