Keith O'Neil: history teacher at Park City High School, shares his journey and passion for teaching history, recounting his inspirations, college experiences, and the interesting move back to teaching after years in sales. We explore a treasure trove of historical topics, from the American Civil War and the Bozeman Trail to fascinating local Montana history. Dive deep into riveting tales about Fort Smith, the Custer Battlefield, Chinese immigrant Lee Lute, and other colorful characters from the Wild West era. Don't miss out on this history-packed episode filled with stories, personal anecdotes, and the enduring quest for historical truth!

Connect with Cole Waltner at @ChasingTheWildOutdoors

00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Keith O'Neil

01:19 Keith's Journey to Becoming a History Teacher

01:59 The Importance of Engaging History Lessons

05:24 Returning to College Later in Life

06:44 Balancing Career and Passion

11:48 The Value of Life Experience in Teaching

17:41 Returning to Hometown and Family

23:02 Exploring Local History and Personal Interests

41:10 Discussing Custer and Crazy Horse

42:18 Elizabeth Custer's Campaign

44:11 Black Elk's Story

46:44 Battlefield Visits and Reenactments

49:32 Engaging Students in History

54:32 Field Trips and Historical Sites

01:12:28 Montana History and Notable Figures

01:21:07 Personal History and Fort Benton

01:23:38 Exploring Forts and Historical Sites

01:26:39 Metal Detecting at Fort Smith

01:39:23 Crow Agency and Local Legends

01:49:08 Bill Hamilton's Epic Life

01:54:32 Colonel Allen's Legacy

01:55:29 The Mysterious Cannon Explosion

01:57:32 Historical Figures of Columbus

01:58:20 Introducing Lee Lute

01:59:23 Lee Lute's Adventures and Research

02:00:14 The Fascinating Story of Lee Lute

02:03:36 Colonel Norton and the Civil War

02:11:21 The Tong Wars and Lee Lute's Fate

02:24:38 Artifacts and Historical Discoveries

02:26:09 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

Explore the rich history of Stillwater County through the lens of Jim Annin’s monumental work, 'They Gazed On The Beartooths'. Join us in our first episode where we dive deep into Annin's contributions to local history, the creation of the Museum of the Beartooths, and the incredible stories captured in his three-volume set. Discover how a man born in 1890 continues to influence our understanding of Montana's past, and learn about his intriguing personal anecdotes, historical documentation, and much more. Our guest, Penny Redli Executive Director of the Museum Of The Beartooths, provides expert insights and anecdotes, shedding light on the significance of Annin's research and lasting influence. This episode is brought to you in collaboration with the Museum of the Beartooths and sponsored by Pinnacle Property of Montana. Penny Redli Executive Director - Museum Of The Beartooths https://www.museumofthebeartooths.com/ Donna WestOwner/Broker - Pinnacle Property Of Montana https://www.PinnacleProperty.com 00:00 Introduction to Jim Annin’s Legacy 00:51 The Importance of Jim Annin’s Contributions 01:54 The Origins of the Museum of the Beartooths 02:59 Jim Annin’s Early Life and Family 04:13 The Creation of 'They Gazed on the Beartooths' 05:30 Jim Annin’s Personal Anecdotes and Legacy 09:42 Jim Annin’s Community Involvement 13:50 Jim Annin’s Family and Personal Life 19:44 The Impact of Jim Annin’s Work on Local History 30:52 The Importance of Preserving Local History 40:46 The Historical Significance of the Columbus Depot 43:58 Historical Meeting and Custer's Expedition 44:37 Railroad and Treaty Clauses 46:39 Jim Annin’s Influence and Contributions 48:43 Colonel Allen and Native American Artifacts 53:08 Photographic Documentation and Historical Events 01:05:16 Community Involvement and Educational Initiatives 01:10:39 Preserving History and Future Projects 01:27:20 Conclusion and Acknowledgements

Ron Hayes shares his unique journey from law enforcement and his love of breakdancing to becoming a renowned wildlife photographer. In this episode, Ron discusses his early life, diverse musical tastes, and childhood adventures in Wyoming. Delve into his transition from law enforcement to photography, his approach to capturing stunning wildlife images, and the importance of experiences over social media fame. Listen in as Ron and Cole recount their adventures in Churchill with polar Bears, and beyond!

Connect with Ron Hayes

https://www.westernwildlifeimages.com

Connect with Cole Waltner @ChasingTheWildOutdoors

00:00 Introduction and Musical Tastes

00:55 Breakdancing Champion of the 80s

06:11 Life on the Ranch and Early Influences

08:56 Family History and Heritage

20:59 Transition to Law Enforcement

23:14 Photography as a Passion and Career

47:26 Challenges and Rewards of Wildlife Photography

51:49 Frustrations and Rewards in Wildlife Photography

52:15 Memorable Moments with Beluga Whales

54:23 Polar Bear Adventures and Future Plans

59:53 The Importance of Simplifying Gear

01:08:39 The Impact of Social Media on Photography

01:18:49 The Challenges of Wildlife Photography

01:19:07 Upcoming Wildlife Expeditions

01:22:54 The Unique Appeal of the Coast Guard

01:34:33 Influences and Inspirations in Photography

01:45:43 Returning from Break: Camera Trapping Insights

01:47:10 Mastering Light in Wildlife Photography

01:49:54 Ethics and Controversies in Wildlife Photography

01:52:17 The Hypocrisy of Baiting in Wildlife Photography

01:56:55 Challenges and Joys of Wildlife Photography

01:59:56 The Importance of Capturing Moments

02:19:15 Beyond the Wild Podcast: A New Beginning

02:23:16 Cherishing Experiences and Relationships