Taxidermy Truths

Taxidermy Truths | Episode 39 | US VS SA Taxidermy Models

On this episode of Taxidermy Truths – Doug draws a comparison between the US and South African models of taxidermy. 
He discusses the relationships between outfitters, taxidermists and hunters and how these dynamics work. He also gets into the key differences in the production process, staffing and logistics.  
While there are clear differences, the goal is the same – to celebrate incredible hunting experiences. Listen to the full episode to learn more.

Taxidermy Truths | Episode 38 | The Real Cost of Shipping

Shipping shouldn’t be scary. 
Having the right information and planning ahead can avoid headaches and surprise costs when it’s time to get your beautiful trophies home.
In this episode of Taxidermy Truths, Doug unpacks the real cost of shipping and discusses ways to make your shipping simple and cost effective.  
He digs into:1. Air Freight2. Ocean Freight3. Clearing Agents4. Insurance. 
This conversation is packed with insight. You don’t want to miss it!

Taxidermy Truths | Episode 37 | Hunting as a Conservation tool

In this week’s episode of Taxidermy Truths, Doug has the privilege of speaking to Ivan Carter, a renowned conservationist, TV personality, professional guide and hunter. A true man of the bush. 
Listen to their fascinating discussion about whether is a tool for conservation, and the role hunting plays in maintaining the infrastructure that enables wildlife to thrive. 
They discuss the hunter’s lie, the business model that supports conservation, and how restrictions and limitations on open trade of wildlife affect not only wildlife numbers, but also their environments. 
This episode is certainly an honest conversation that is sure to get you thinking.

Taxidermy Truths | Episode 36 | 5 Things I Wish I Knew

With 25 years of experience in the hunting and taxidermy industry, Doug has learned his fair share of lessons in his career along the way. 
This episode of Taxidermy Truths is titled: 5 Things I Wish I Knew - as Doug unpacks the insights that may have helped him when starting out as a taxidermist. 
You don’t want to miss this one!

Taxidermy Truths | Episode 35 | Pooling of Clients

Pooling of clients occurs when multiple hunters ship their trophies in one crate – with one set of hunting documents to save money. This is illegal – and US Fish and Wildlife is clamping down on this in a big way and has every right to confiscate and destroy these consignments. 
In this episode of Taxidermy Truths, Doug unpacks the misconceptions about savings for shipping, the exceptions to the rule and the requirements for legal export of hunting trophies. 
Make sure your memories are safe -  listen to the full episode.

Taxidermy Truths | Episode 34 | US Shows Feedback 2025

In this week’s episode of Taxidermy Truths, Doug shares some feedback from the annual marketing shows in January in the USA. 
He talks about the good, the bad and the general sentiment from outfitters, clients and hunting enthusiasts that visited the shows in 2025. This year in particular there were some big hits and misses - take a listen to hear more.

Taxidermy Truths | Episode 33 | Growing up in the Taxidermy Industry

The first Taxidermy Truths of the year is a truly special one. 
Doug sits down with two sisters that have grown up in the taxidermy industry. Kerry and Jess have a rich understanding of the value of hunting and the role it plays in conservation and the economy. 
We hear about their experiences in the veld, thoughts on the misconceptions in the industry and some funny stories about growing up in the taxidermy shop. 
These ladies are a real inspiration to young hunters and huntresses and are making an impact on those around them. 
You don’t want to miss this one.

Taxidermy Truths | Episode 32 | The Year in Review 2024

That’s a wrap. 
In the final episode of Taxidermy Truths for 2024, Doug discusses the Year in Review. 
We look back on what has been an incredible year for our industry - giving insights, reflections and hopes for the future. 
Thank you for your amazing support for the podcast – we look forward to sharing more Taxidermy Truths in 2025.

Taxidermy Truths | Episode 31 | Finding Solutions: The Chemistry of Tanning

In order to create taxidermy that is anatomically correct, you need to be able to stretch the skin. Tanning replaces the fats, oils and moisture from the skin and takes it to a stable state, leaving it pliable, soft and able to stretch. 
In this episode of Taxidermy Truths, Doug discusses the tanning process, and some of the science behind the solutions. He gives some insight into the tanning for taxidermy process and provides aspects to consider when it comes to tanning for leather. 
Listen to the full episode to understand how to create the best canvas for great taxidermy.

Taxidermy Truths | Episode 30 | Skinning for Taxidermy

This week on Taxidermy Truths, we discuss skinning for different mount types. 
Whether you are considering a shoulder mount, pedestal, half mount, 3D mount or full mount – each display requires different instructions for skinning your animal. Then there are also the rug mounts, flat skins and backskins to think about.
Planning your taxidermy along with your safari is a great way to ensure that your animals are skinned according to your requirements. 
Doug gives some useful tips and information on how to skin correctly for each mount type and the factors to consider ahead of time.