Near-Death Hunts and Unbreakable Spirit: Caleb's Wild Stories

EP 667: Caleb Brewer | Stick Sniper Archery
In this inspiring episode, host Cody Rich  sits down with Caleb Brewer, a former Green Beret who lost both legs in an IED explosion in Afghanistan on his birthday. Caleb shares his remarkable journey from military service to discovering archery and hunting as an adult, overcoming immense physical and mental challenges to become a passionate bow hunter and owner of Stick Sniper Archery in Tucson, Arizona. From dry-firing his first bow to epic backcountry hunts, near-death experiences like nearly drowning while pursuing antelope, and lessons in resilience, Caleb's story highlights the power of mindset, community, and embracing the outdoors. Whether you're a hunter, veteran, or anyone facing adversity, this conversation is a testament to turning trauma into triumph and finding joy in the hunt.

Stick Sniper Archery 

Timestamp Chapters

• 0:00 - Introduction and Hunting Excitement: The host welcomes Caleb, discusses the thrill of hunting season, and Caleb's "adult-onset" obsession with hunting.
• 3:00 - Caleb's Background and First Hunt: Caleb recounts his outdoor childhood, military service, injury in Afghanistan, and his introduction to hunting through a veteran's foundation.
• 10:00 - Transition to Archery and Bow Hunting: From dry-firing an old bow to falling in love with archery, Caleb explains how it became an all-consuming passion post-injury.
• 18:00 - Identity Shift and Opening a Bow Shop: Caleb opens up about losing his military identity, rediscovering purpose, and the wild story of acquiring and growing his bow shop, Stick Sniper Archery.
• 28:00 - Backcountry Adventures and Challenges: Tales of grueling hunts in Idaho's Selway Wilderness, maintaining fitness as a double amputee, and innovative problem-solving with prosthetics.
• 38:00 - Sense of Humor and Parkour Falls: Light-hearted stories about tripping on prosthetics, embracing humor in tough situations, and the "parkour" yell as a safety check.
• 45:00 - Near-Death Antelope Hunt Story: Caleb's harrowing account of nearly drowning in a flash flood while spot-and-stalking antelope in Arizona.
• 55:00 - More Close Calls and Life Lessons: Reflections on other accidents, burning through "nine lives," and the importance of a positive mindset.
• 1:02:00 - Upcoming Hunts and Closing Advice: Caleb shares his 2023 hunting plans, promotes Stick Sniper, and offers wisdom on enjoying the moment in the outdoors.
• 1:08:00 - Wrap-Up and Final Thoughts: Final exchanges, excitement for future hunts, and a teaser clip.

Three Key Takeaways

1. Resilience Through Adversity: Caleb's story shows how traumatic events, like losing both legs, can lead to unexpected positive paths—such as discovering archery and owning a business—if you maintain a problem-solving mindset and refuse to let challenges define you.
2. The Power of Passion and Community: Getting into hunting later in life ignited an all-consuming drive for Caleb, but it was amplified by supportive friends, veterans' groups, and shared experiences, reminding listeners that pursuing what excites you with good people can transform your life.
3. Embrace the Journey, Not Just the Outcome: Caleb emphasizes focusing on the quality of the hunt—the moments in nature, friendships, and personal growth—over the kill, as obsessing over results can overshadow the true joy and lessons of the experience.

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