Minimalist Saddle Hunting with Former Green Beret Jake Roberts (Wayward Ridge)

In this episode of The Archery Project, host Zakk Plocica sits down with Jake Roberts, a retired Green Beret and founder of Wayward Ridge — a company redefining the minimalist mindset in saddle hunting gear. Jake shares how lessons learned from Special Forces—discipline, adaptability, and efficiency—directly translate into bowhunting success. From building Wayward Ridge’s ultra-functional gear to embracing a “less is more” approach in the woods, this conversation dives deep into mindset, innovation, and the pursuit of purpose through bowhunting. We talk gear modifications, minimalist setups, saddle hunting strategies, and how Jake’s unique military background fuels his approach to both business and the hunt. Whether you’re a saddle hunter, gear tinkerer, or someone who loves stories of grit and innovation in the outdoors, this episode will leave you fired up to simplify your setup and sharpen your mindset. 🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more conversations that fuel the bowhunting lifestyle. 🔗 Connect with Jake Roberts & Wayward Ridge Website: https://waywardridge.com Instagram:   / waywardridge   🏹 Follow The Archery Project YouTube: @TheArcheryProject Instagram:   / thearcheryproject_   Podcast: Available on Spotify & Apple Podcasts 📍 Timestamps (suggested) 00:00 – Intro: From Green Beret to Bowhunter 03:20 – Why Minimalism Wins in the Woods 08:30 – The Birth of Wayward Ridge 14:45 – Tinkering with Gear & Building Better Systems 22:10 – Saddle Hunting: Mobility, Mindset & Method 35:00 – The Green Beret Approach to Bowhunting 47:30 – Building a Brand in the Hunting Industry 1:04:00 – Lessons from the Field: Failure, Focus & Purpose 🏹 Shop Extreme Outfitters for all of your archery & bowhunting needs: https://extremeoutfitters.com Quick reads, pro tips, and the latest episodes—delivered straight to your inbox every week. 👉 Sign up here: https://thearcheryproject.com/ ✅ Watch the video podcast here!    / @thearcheryproject   JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: ► Facebook: http://bit.ly/44UD7Vo ► Instagram: http://bit.ly/40Q2jLf