O/B Radio

In this streamside episode of O/B Radio, host Leslie Gaines sits down with Dale Sexton to reflect on the history of fly fishing in Livingston and the iconic Dan Bailey’s Fly Shop.

Dale shares personal stories of growing up in Livingston, his early ties to Dan Bailey’s, and his indirect route to eventually buying the legendary shop—which he expanded into a full-service outdoor store. Dale and Leslie also reflect on the evolution of fly fishing in Montana, the challenges posed by a growing population and increasing visitation, and the importance of community involvement in conservation efforts.

This episode is sponsored by the Gardiner Chamber of Commerce, American Rivers, the National Parks Conservation Association, and Yellowstone Vacations / Delaware North.

Wolves may be among the most sought-after animals in Yellowstone Park, but they didn’t always enjoy such a solid reputation. In this episode, host Leslie Gaines sits down with Nathan Varley, co-owner of Yellowstone Wolf Tracker, and Rick McIntyre, author, biologist, and wolf-behavior expert, to discuss the fascinating history of wolves in Yellowstone and their importance to the ecosystem and local economy.

Hear riveting tales of the wolves' triumphs and tribulations, such as deadly rivalries between and within packs. Both guests hope to increase public acceptance of wolves, as well as channel their interest in the wildlife conservation.

This episode is sponsored by Elk Horn Lodge, Yellowstone Wolf Tracker, Zalaby’s Custom Catering, and Yellowstone Gateway Inn.

O/B Radio host Leslie Gaines sat down with John Marzluff, professor of wildlife science and author of Dog Days, Raven Nights and Doug Smith, former YNP wildlife biologist and contributing author of Yellowstone's Birds: Diversity and Abundance in the World's First National Park. 

The three discuss the re-introduction of wolves, the behavioral patterns of ravens and crows, societal and climate patterns affecting bird populations, and the relationships that unfold between birds and wolves, among other interesting topics.

This episode is sponsored by the ⁠Gardiner Chamber of Commerce⁠, ⁠Western Justice Associates⁠, ⁠Sacajawea Audubon Society⁠, and ⁠Destination Yellowstone⁠.

Despite being America’s national mammal, bison don’t exactly have it easy—especially those that live in Yellowstone Park, where they’re routinely hazed, hunted, and harassed.

Luckily, Buffalo Field Campaign in West Yellowstone toils year-round in their defense. They inform the public, hold the government accountable, and provide safe passage for migrating animals.

Across the state, American Prairie is building a massive bison sanctuary of its own, where the public can observe not only buffalo, but a rich and diverse array of other wildlife.

Together, they're helping bison regain their rightful place on the American landscape.

Recently, longtime documentary-film collaborators Ken Burns and Dayton Duncan released "The American Buffalo," as well as a companion book, "Blood Memory: The Tragic Decline and Improbable Resurrection of the American Buffalo."

Together, they tell a compelling story, retracing the 1804-1806 route of the Lewis & Clark Expedition—when millions of buffalo roamed free—through non-native settlement of the West, when commercialization, Manifest Destiny, and human greed led to the species' near-extinction.

The final chapter is one of hope, with an unlikely cast of characters coming together to save the bison and help restore a long-lost aspect of native tradition and culture.