My full name is George Bowe Blitch, and let's face it...I've been a "Son of a Blitch" my entire life!
I'm a fifth generation Texan, living here with the love of my life, Meg Blitch. We have two amazing daughters. Most people know that I'm an energetic guy that enjoys being involved in a variety of projects. I figured this might be a good place to centralize and share them.
I've worked in a variety of professions over the years...I've been a Financial Advisor, Wildlife Manager, Rancher, Hunting Guide, Multimedia Manager, Videographer, Photographer, Writer, Editor, Designer, Cartographer with Map My Ranch, Musician, Teacher, Soccer Coach, Consultant, Entrepreneur, and most recently, a Podcaster ("Son of a Blitch" Podcast).
I am also a Pro Team Program member with the MeatEater family of companies - First Lite, FHF Gear and Phelps Game Calls, as well as the outdoor brand, Spartan Precision Equipment. I have also teamed up with Doug Duren, to work on his "Sharing The Land" project. Map My Ranch makes the maps for the land owners that sign up with STL. Most recently, I have partnered up with Avid Armor, who is also a sponsor for the "Son of a Blitch" Podcast, and I will surely be using their gear on videos for "BDT Cooks" - (alongside Matthew Mitchell, frequent co-host and contributor to the podcast).
My father and I co-own Blitch Associates, Inc., a financial advisory firm specializing in public finance in Houston, TX. I've entering my 19th year in the industry and I am blessed to work alongside my dad, everyday. I currently co-own Map My Ranch with one of best friends, Colinavidarmor.com Williams. MMR is a mapping company specializing in producing custom printed aerial maps. I recently started up a new company called Silver Shot Shells, which features a very unique product line - .999% fine silver "shots", encased in transparent shotgun hulls. While I still own and operate the publishing company, HYT Publishing, I had paused on new projects for a few years, after the passing of my good friend and business partner, Harvey Arden - former National Geographic writer/editor of 23 years, and best selling author. I have a few things lined up to continue that journey, with some ebook publications, and through the "Son of a Blitch" podcast (see below).
I am also focusing on producing articles and videos about my experiences managing my family ranch and helping to co-manage another. I have so many stories to share, and I also plan to talk a lot about the gear I've been using in the field and in the kitchen. I had a few articles gain some traction in the outdoor industry, and that really got my desire going again for writing and producing books. I have one that is gradually in the works right now about a famous Black Cowboy from Texas, by the name of Bob Lemmons (1848-1947). He was born into slavery, but later emerged as one of the most famous Black Cowboys of Texas, aka the "Most Original Mustanger" and "The Horse Whisperer," as he would single handedly round up countless Wild Mustangs in the Wild Horse Deserts of TX, before barbed wire spiderwebbed the lands. He is truly a Texas Legend. Our families would become close friends, ranching together and living side by side, in Carrizo Springs, TX. In the last decade of his life, as his eyesight continued to fail, Bob lived alongside our family, with a guide wire that was attached from my great grandparents house to a guest house we built for him, so he could easily make his way over. He would spend countless hours retelling legendary stories. Our family has passed those down, and we want to share them with the world. Click here to learn more about Bob Lemmons.
I'm a fifth generation Texan, living here with the love of my life, Meg Blitch. We have two amazing daughters. Most people know that I'm an energetic guy that enjoys being involved in a variety of projects. I figured this might be a good place to centralize and share them.
I've worked in a variety of professions over the years...I've been a Financial Advisor, Wildlife Manager, Rancher, Hunting Guide, Multimedia Manager, Videographer, Photographer, Writer, Editor, Designer, Cartographer with Map My Ranch, Musician, Teacher, Soccer Coach, Consultant, Entrepreneur, and most recently, a Podcaster ("Son of a Blitch" Podcast).
I am also a Pro Team Program member with the MeatEater family of companies - First Lite, FHF Gear and Phelps Game Calls, as well as the outdoor brand, Spartan Precision Equipment. I have also teamed up with Doug Duren, to work on his "Sharing The Land" project. Map My Ranch makes the maps for the land owners that sign up with STL. Most recently, I have partnered up with Avid Armor, who is also a sponsor for the "Son of a Blitch" Podcast, and I will surely be using their gear on videos for "BDT Cooks" - (alongside Matthew Mitchell, frequent co-host and contributor to the podcast).
My father and I co-own Blitch Associates, Inc., a financial advisory firm specializing in public finance in Houston, TX. I've entering my 19th year in the industry and I am blessed to work alongside my dad, everyday. I currently co-own Map My Ranch with one of best friends, Colinavidarmor.com Williams. MMR is a mapping company specializing in producing custom printed aerial maps. I recently started up a new company called Silver Shot Shells, which features a very unique product line - .999% fine silver "shots", encased in transparent shotgun hulls. While I still own and operate the publishing company, HYT Publishing, I had paused on new projects for a few years, after the passing of my good friend and business partner, Harvey Arden - former National Geographic writer/editor of 23 years, and best selling author. I have a few things lined up to continue that journey, with some ebook publications, and through the "Son of a Blitch" podcast (see below).
I am also focusing on producing articles and videos about my experiences managing my family ranch and helping to co-manage another. I have so many stories to share, and I also plan to talk a lot about the gear I've been using in the field and in the kitchen. I had a few articles gain some traction in the outdoor industry, and that really got my desire going again for writing and producing books. I have one that is gradually in the works right now about a famous Black Cowboy from Texas, by the name of Bob Lemmons (1848-1947). He was born into slavery, but later emerged as one of the most famous Black Cowboys of Texas, aka the "Most Original Mustanger" and "The Horse Whisperer," as he would single handedly round up countless Wild Mustangs in the Wild Horse Deserts of TX, before barbed wire spiderwebbed the lands. He is truly a Texas Legend. Our families would become close friends, ranching together and living side by side, in Carrizo Springs, TX. In the last decade of his life, as his eyesight continued to fail, Bob lived alongside our family, with a guide wire that was attached from my great grandparents house to a guest house we built for him, so he could easily make his way over. He would spend countless hours retelling legendary stories. Our family has passed those down, and we want to share them with the world. Click here to learn more about Bob Lemmons.
"Son of a Blitch" podcast
I used to travel around with former National Geographic writer and best selling author, Harvey Arden, interviewing Indigenous Elders, Leaders of the Native American Indian Community, and many other interesting people along the way. I was in charge of all the video and audio production, as well as running many interviews, myself. As I launch this podcast, it reminds me of those times, and the incredible people I met along the way. I decided, with this podcast, to expand my guest panels to include folks that I have met from all areas of my life. I will feature interviews with international acclaimed musicians, authors, speakers, comedians, inventors, leaders, teachers, wildlife experts, chefs, professional athletes, other podcasters, and many more. Please subscribe to the "Son of a Blitch" podcast, wherever you listen to it, to be notified when a new episode is announced. If you have a guest suggestions, please let me know at: gblitch@sonofablitch.com
Son of a Blitch Podcast, Ep. 49 w/ Jesse Griffiths - "The Turkey Book"
Embarking on a culinary adventure that stretches beyond the familiar kitchen walls, Jesse Griffiths, a renowned chef and avid hunter, takes us on a profound journey from the thrill of the turkey hunt to the intimate process of crafting a meal from nature's bounty. This expedition, elegantly chronicled in "The Turkey Book," is more than a mere compilation of recipes; it's a narrative woven from the fabric of the great outdoors, shared camaraderie, and a profound respect for tradition.
In this podcast episode, host George Blitch and Jesse Griffiths invite us to pull up a chair and immerse ourselves in a conversation that delves deep into the essence of hunting and cooking wild turkey. They recount tales from various American terrains—ranging from Jesse's 4 turkey hunts last season in the cypress swamps and palmettos of Georgia, to the snowy peaks of Oregon, down home in rich Oaks of Texas, to the northern hardwoods of Eastern Connecticut—offering a rich tapestry of experiences that shape both the hunter and the chef.
Jesse's expertise, honed through his ventures at Dai Due restaurant and New School of Traditional Cookery, is palpable as he recounts the adrenaline-fueled moments of the hunt and the meticulous process of preparing a feast worthy of the game he pursues. He imparts wisdom on the art of patience, the nuanced decision-making that hunting demands, and the transformative power of cooking over an open flame, or in the kitchen, sharing rich and rewarding recipes with family and friends.
The conversation transcends the act of hunting, emphasizing the significance of conservation and ethical practices that honor the land and its creatures. Jesse and George highlight the role of organizations like the Texas Wildlife Association and Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, in nurturing local ecosystems, reinforcing the symbiotic relationship between hunters, chefs, and conservationists, as well at the National Wild Turkey Federation, and all they do at a national level, across the country.
Throughout the episode, listeners are treated to Jesse's infectious enthusiasm for every aspect of the turkey hunt and versatile meals you can enjoy after some success in the woods! Each section of the book reveals secrets of the craft, from navigating varied landscapes to maximizing the culinary potential of every part of the turkey. The discussion serves not only as a guide for fellow enthusiasts but also as an invitation for novices to explore the multifaceted world of turkey hunting and cooking.
As the conversation wraps up, we're left with a newfound appreciation for the process that brings the wild turkey from the field to our tables. Jesse's passion for sharing this experience shines through, encouraging us to find joy in the journey, the camaraderie, and the stories that each hunt inspires. This podcast episode is more than just an exploration of a chef's seasonal pursuit; it's a tribute to the natural cycle that connects us all to the food we eat and the earth we cherish.
With "The Turkey Book," Jesse Griffiths offers a masterclass in the artisanal alchemy of wild game cooking, reminding us that the true essence of a meal lies not just in its taste but in the reverence for the process that brings it to fruition. So, join us in this celebration of the wild, the culinary arts, and the stories that make every meal an adventure. Happy Hunting and Happy Cooking, folks!
You can now pre-order* “The Turkey Book” at: www.thewildbooks.com
In this podcast episode, host George Blitch and Jesse Griffiths invite us to pull up a chair and immerse ourselves in a conversation that delves deep into the essence of hunting and cooking wild turkey. They recount tales from various American terrains—ranging from Jesse's 4 turkey hunts last season in the cypress swamps and palmettos of Georgia, to the snowy peaks of Oregon, down home in rich Oaks of Texas, to the northern hardwoods of Eastern Connecticut—offering a rich tapestry of experiences that shape both the hunter and the chef.
Jesse's expertise, honed through his ventures at Dai Due restaurant and New School of Traditional Cookery, is palpable as he recounts the adrenaline-fueled moments of the hunt and the meticulous process of preparing a feast worthy of the game he pursues. He imparts wisdom on the art of patience, the nuanced decision-making that hunting demands, and the transformative power of cooking over an open flame, or in the kitchen, sharing rich and rewarding recipes with family and friends.
The conversation transcends the act of hunting, emphasizing the significance of conservation and ethical practices that honor the land and its creatures. Jesse and George highlight the role of organizations like the Texas Wildlife Association and Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, in nurturing local ecosystems, reinforcing the symbiotic relationship between hunters, chefs, and conservationists, as well at the National Wild Turkey Federation, and all they do at a national level, across the country.
Throughout the episode, listeners are treated to Jesse's infectious enthusiasm for every aspect of the turkey hunt and versatile meals you can enjoy after some success in the woods! Each section of the book reveals secrets of the craft, from navigating varied landscapes to maximizing the culinary potential of every part of the turkey. The discussion serves not only as a guide for fellow enthusiasts but also as an invitation for novices to explore the multifaceted world of turkey hunting and cooking.
As the conversation wraps up, we're left with a newfound appreciation for the process that brings the wild turkey from the field to our tables. Jesse's passion for sharing this experience shines through, encouraging us to find joy in the journey, the camaraderie, and the stories that each hunt inspires. This podcast episode is more than just an exploration of a chef's seasonal pursuit; it's a tribute to the natural cycle that connects us all to the food we eat and the earth we cherish.
With "The Turkey Book," Jesse Griffiths offers a masterclass in the artisanal alchemy of wild game cooking, reminding us that the true essence of a meal lies not just in its taste but in the reverence for the process that brings it to fruition. So, join us in this celebration of the wild, the culinary arts, and the stories that make every meal an adventure. Happy Hunting and Happy Cooking, folks!
You can now pre-order* “The Turkey Book” at: www.thewildbooks.com
MAP MY RANCH
One of my best friends, Colin Williams, is a GIS wizard. Almost 18 years ago, he had a (then) state of the art GPS unit that we brought out to my family ranch. We went to each deer blind, feeder, food plot, pond, etc., and we used our geotags to make a custom ranch map for the property. We started to show it to a few friends that also had property here in Texas. They all said the same thing, "You should map my ranch!" After we heard that a few times and made maps for their ranches, we decided we might have a fun side project on our hands. In 2008, we launched Map My Ranch, where we produce the highest quality printed maps available, using the most current aerial images. We have two different types of maps - Boundary Maps or Custom Maps (customized with various icons and labels). We also produce maps for Lakes, Rivers, Vineyards, Commercial Properties, and more. We've done maps for almost every state in the US, and many other countries as well. No job is too small or too big!
We have also developed Partnerships with Doug Duren's "Sharing The Land" initiative and with the onX Hunt app, the #1 hunting app in the world! All Map My Ranch customers will receive a 3 month "Elite Membership" with their map purchase!
Check out our webpage for more info: www.MapMyRanch.com
One of my best friends, Colin Williams, is a GIS wizard. Almost 18 years ago, he had a (then) state of the art GPS unit that we brought out to my family ranch. We went to each deer blind, feeder, food plot, pond, etc., and we used our geotags to make a custom ranch map for the property. We started to show it to a few friends that also had property here in Texas. They all said the same thing, "You should map my ranch!" After we heard that a few times and made maps for their ranches, we decided we might have a fun side project on our hands. In 2008, we launched Map My Ranch, where we produce the highest quality printed maps available, using the most current aerial images. We have two different types of maps - Boundary Maps or Custom Maps (customized with various icons and labels). We also produce maps for Lakes, Rivers, Vineyards, Commercial Properties, and more. We've done maps for almost every state in the US, and many other countries as well. No job is too small or too big!
We have also developed Partnerships with Doug Duren's "Sharing The Land" initiative and with the onX Hunt app, the #1 hunting app in the world! All Map My Ranch customers will receive a 3 month "Elite Membership" with their map purchase!
Check out our webpage for more info: www.MapMyRanch.com
HYT PUBLISHING
In 2004, I started a publishing company, HYT Publishing, with my good friend and mentor, former National Geographic writer, Harvey Arden. Sadly, Harvey passed away in 2018. During our time together, we published 3 books and 2 Spoken Word CDs. We began working on our first book “Have You Thought of Leonard Peltier Lately?” as a follow up to a book Harvey edited by Leonard Peltier called "Prison Writings: My Life Is My Sun Dance" in 1999. Our second book, White Buffalo Teachings, is about the Lakota people and their traditions/history, which Harvey co-wrote with Chief Arvol Looking Horse, the 19th generation Keeper of the Sacred White Buffalo Calf Pipe. Our third book, by a Seneca Elder named Edna Gordon, is a collection of Life Messages and Poetry, called "Voice of the Hawk Elder". It won the USA Best Books Award in the Native American Studies category. We also have 2 spoken word CDs - "Noble Red Man" and "My Life Is My Sundance" - both of which were nominated for a total of 5 Native American Music Awards at the 2011 NAMMYS. "My Life Is My Sun Dance" ended up winning the "Best Spoken Word" Award that year! Harvey also won a NAMMY for the Wisdomkeepers Radio CD, which we helped to get on the ballot.
Our website features a preview of the books and CDs, if you'd like to check them out: www.HaveYouThought.com
In 2004, I started a publishing company, HYT Publishing, with my good friend and mentor, former National Geographic writer, Harvey Arden. Sadly, Harvey passed away in 2018. During our time together, we published 3 books and 2 Spoken Word CDs. We began working on our first book “Have You Thought of Leonard Peltier Lately?” as a follow up to a book Harvey edited by Leonard Peltier called "Prison Writings: My Life Is My Sun Dance" in 1999. Our second book, White Buffalo Teachings, is about the Lakota people and their traditions/history, which Harvey co-wrote with Chief Arvol Looking Horse, the 19th generation Keeper of the Sacred White Buffalo Calf Pipe. Our third book, by a Seneca Elder named Edna Gordon, is a collection of Life Messages and Poetry, called "Voice of the Hawk Elder". It won the USA Best Books Award in the Native American Studies category. We also have 2 spoken word CDs - "Noble Red Man" and "My Life Is My Sundance" - both of which were nominated for a total of 5 Native American Music Awards at the 2011 NAMMYS. "My Life Is My Sun Dance" ended up winning the "Best Spoken Word" Award that year! Harvey also won a NAMMY for the Wisdomkeepers Radio CD, which we helped to get on the ballot.
Our website features a preview of the books and CDs, if you'd like to check them out: www.HaveYouThought.com
SILVER SHOT SHELLS
Silver Shot Shells came about as an idea to feature .999% Silver "shots" in a unique and memorable way - sealed inside transparent shotgun shell. My brother in law and I thought of the idea and I designed the product. We wanted to create a timeless collectible that pays homage to the ideas of long honored traditions, values, and shared experiences. Each shell contains either 1 troy ounce (480+ grains) or two troy ounces (960+ grains) of .999% Fine Silver shot*. We currently feature a 5, 10, and 50 Troy Ounce box set. All products are numbered and come with a spec sheet and Certificate Of Authenticity.
Check out our webpage for more information: www.SilverShotShells.com
Silver Shot Shells came about as an idea to feature .999% Silver "shots" in a unique and memorable way - sealed inside transparent shotgun shell. My brother in law and I thought of the idea and I designed the product. We wanted to create a timeless collectible that pays homage to the ideas of long honored traditions, values, and shared experiences. Each shell contains either 1 troy ounce (480+ grains) or two troy ounces (960+ grains) of .999% Fine Silver shot*. We currently feature a 5, 10, and 50 Troy Ounce box set. All products are numbered and come with a spec sheet and Certificate Of Authenticity.
Check out our webpage for more information: www.SilverShotShells.com
THE BRIDGEKEEPERS PROJECT
The BridgeKeepers are all around us. You've known some, perhaps. You might even be one, yourself. BridgeKeepers are individuals who have "built bridges" in this world - by uniting people, connecting cultures, sharing wisdom or art, taking a stand for change, and many other actions or ideas that propel us forward and bring us all together. Each BridgeKeeper has accomplished something of merit that we feel is inspirational, impactful and worth sharing. You will find writers, musicians, leaders, teachers, pioneers, and other special contributors. Many share the common messages of unity, peace and understanding, and standing up for change. It seems needed now more than ever. I decided to build this project to pay respect and honor to people that deserve just that.
Learn more about the BridgeKeepers Project at: www.TheBridgeKeepers.com
The BridgeKeepers are all around us. You've known some, perhaps. You might even be one, yourself. BridgeKeepers are individuals who have "built bridges" in this world - by uniting people, connecting cultures, sharing wisdom or art, taking a stand for change, and many other actions or ideas that propel us forward and bring us all together. Each BridgeKeeper has accomplished something of merit that we feel is inspirational, impactful and worth sharing. You will find writers, musicians, leaders, teachers, pioneers, and other special contributors. Many share the common messages of unity, peace and understanding, and standing up for change. It seems needed now more than ever. I decided to build this project to pay respect and honor to people that deserve just that.
Learn more about the BridgeKeepers Project at: www.TheBridgeKeepers.com
SON OF A BLITCH PRODUCTIONS
SOB Productions has been in existence since 2001. It started out around my video production work, but later grew into various forms of Multimedia Development. I was one of the lead videographers and editors with the television show, "Texas Live", for a couple years in the early 2000's. I would shoot a variety of events (world class chefs cooking their favorite meals, Cirque du Soleil, live concerts, festivals, movie premieres, etc.) and then edit 2-8 minute segments for the bi-monthly show. I met some amazing folks in the process, and got hired by a few firms to create commercials (MTV) and marketing videos for various brands.
Eventually, I started to build websites for some of my clients, and also worked on back end software development with a massive real estate firm in NYC. That led me to doing a lot of graphic design work, where I would create packaging designs, logos, websites and more. I currently still work in all these mediums, but the podcast has been the focus, along with content creation for my various projects.
I did have the honor of building Jim Shockey's website for his latest book, "Call Me Hunter". Check out CallMeHunter.com to learn more about the book, and also check out the podcast we did together for a deeper dive into his phenomenal book!
SOB Productions has been in existence since 2001. It started out around my video production work, but later grew into various forms of Multimedia Development. I was one of the lead videographers and editors with the television show, "Texas Live", for a couple years in the early 2000's. I would shoot a variety of events (world class chefs cooking their favorite meals, Cirque du Soleil, live concerts, festivals, movie premieres, etc.) and then edit 2-8 minute segments for the bi-monthly show. I met some amazing folks in the process, and got hired by a few firms to create commercials (MTV) and marketing videos for various brands.
Eventually, I started to build websites for some of my clients, and also worked on back end software development with a massive real estate firm in NYC. That led me to doing a lot of graphic design work, where I would create packaging designs, logos, websites and more. I currently still work in all these mediums, but the podcast has been the focus, along with content creation for my various projects.
I did have the honor of building Jim Shockey's website for his latest book, "Call Me Hunter". Check out CallMeHunter.com to learn more about the book, and also check out the podcast we did together for a deeper dive into his phenomenal book!
George Blitch joins the Scheels Outdoors Podcast....
In episode 130 we are joined by George Blitch of the "Son of a Blitch" podcast. George is a published author, storyteller, podcast host and co-founder of Map My Ranch, which creates physical maps for properties. We discuss a variety of topics ranging from the tale of Bob Lemmons, a former slave turned Mustanger, to his pursuit of a melanistic whitetail buck named Black Beauty.
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