Welcome to Wild Pursuits with Cross Trail Outfitters, where we guide the next generation to Christ through the outdoors. Join us around the campfire as we share lessons of faith, adventure, and heritage, passing down the traditions of hunting and fishing through mentorship and discipleship. If you’d like to support us or get involved, visit teamcto.org.
Episode 30 - From Dark Waters to Deep Calling with Ethan Rusk
Ethan Rusk knew about Cross Trail Outfitters for a couple of years before he ever got involved. He just wasn't interested initially. But when life took a hard turn and he found himself navigating some dark waters, God had other plans. One Sunday morning Ethan walked up to a man at church, offered his fishing boat and a willing heart, and had his application filled out by that night. In this episode, Kirk sits down with Ethan, a firefighter from Seminole, Oklahoma, who shares how CTO became the brotherhood and Christ-centered community he didn't even know he needed.
From volunteering as a guide to running 12 events in a single year and stepping into the role of Seminole Chapter Outfitter, Ethan's story is Christ at work from start to finish. He shares an unforgettable story from hog camp where a last-minute addition to the roster became the first boy that week to say he needed Jesus, setting off a chain of four baptisms, two salvations, and a rededication all in a matter of hours at the lake. That boy now attends church with his grandpa, and it all started because Ethan said yes when it would have been easier to say no.
To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org (http://teamcto.org/).
9 Jan 2026
Episode 29 - Discovering Your Calling with Nathan Warren
Step into the world of Wild Pursuits, where faith meets the great outdoors. In this episode, we sit down with Nathan Warren from Wyoming, who shares his transformative journey at the national calling camp with Cross Trail Outfitters. Nathan's story is one of passion and purpose, as he discusses the vital role of mentoring young men through outdoor adventures. Discover how his experiences align with CTO's mission to guide the next generation to Christ through the outdoors. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or exploring new paths, Nathan's insights offer inspiration and guidance. Embrace the adventure and join us in nurturing a legacy of faith, family, and stewardship.
To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org (https://www.teamcto.org/).
10 Dec 2025
Episode 28 - Guiding the Next Generation with Mike Johnson
In this episode of Wild Pursuits, we explore the profound sense of calling that drives the mission of Cross Trail Outfitters. Join us as Mike Johnson, the North Carolina State Director and National Director of CTO, shares his personal journey of discovering a calling to guide young men to Christ through the outdoors. From leading impactful calling camps to witnessing life-changing moments around the campfire, Mike's story is a testament to the power of answering a higher call. Whether you're seeking your own path or inspired by stories of faith and mentorship, this episode highlights the transformative impact of embracing one's calling in the great outdoors.
Mike delves into the unique experiences that have shaped his journey, including the challenges and triumphs of leading a ministry dedicated to nurturing the next generation. Through heartfelt anecdotes and powerful testimonies, listeners will gain insight into the importance of mentorship and the role it plays in shaping young lives.
To support our mission or get involved, visit teamcto.org (https://www.teamcto.org/).
Who has been a guest on Wild Pursuits
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Casey Allen
Victor Bretting
Rhonda Bretting
Kevin Kepple
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
3 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
3 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 25 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
36
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
32
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