From Duck Blinds to Business: The Hunt Repellent Story (Ep 812)

Monthly Sponsors: North Dakota Tourism Weatherby **Sometimes the best outdoor products start with a simple question: “Why hasn’t anyone fixed this yet?”** Host **Wade Shoemaker** sits down with **Gabe Fontenot**, founder of **Hunt Repellent**, to talk about entrepreneurship, duck hunting traditions in Southwest Louisiana, and building one of the fastest-growing outdoor brands in the industry. Growing up around the rice fields and marshes of Louisiana, Gabe developed a lifelong passion for waterfowl hunting. After finding success in corporate sales, he launched Hunt Repellent with a mission to create a DEET-free alternative designed specifically for outdoorsmen and women. The conversation covers the challenges of starting a company from scratch, navigating product development and EPA approval, growing a business at a rapid pace, and building a brand that resonates with hunters. The discussion also explores family hunting traditions, teal hunting culture, entrepreneurship, customer service, and the lessons Gabe has learned while scaling a business and staying connected to the outdoors he loves. **Topics Covered** - Growing up duck hunting in Southwest Louisiana - Teal season culture and rice field hunting - Building Hunt Repellent from the ground up - Developing a DEET-free insect repellent - Entrepreneurship and business growth - Balancing corporate experience with startup life - Perry Outfitters and serving local hunters - The future of Hunt Repellent - Why authenticity matters in business and hunting **Listen now**: www.ducks.org/DUPodcast **Send feedback**: DUPodcast@ducks.org **SPONSORS**: **Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails**: Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly. Monthly Sponsors: North Dakota Tourism Weatherby