On the Real with Ubuntu Fly Anglers

Ep 19: The Wild Is Ours Too: Ann Brissette on Ice Fishing, Fly Fishing & Finding Belonging

In this episode of On the Real, Nicole Tracy-Lewis speaks with Ontario angler Ann Brissette about finding joy, healing, and connection through ice fishing and fly fishing. Ann shares how a winter hobby evolved into a deep love of wild places, backcountry lakes, and life on the water, while reflecting on injury, resilience, and the importance of slowing down and appreciating the outdoors. Together, they explore what it means to be Black and BIPOC women in outdoor spaces, the power of community and representation, and how fishing can create peace, belonging, and adventure far beyond the catch itself.
Episode Notes-
Instagram
YouTube
Podcast Overview - On The Real is all about making the invisible visible. This podcast, hosted by Ubuntu Fly Anglers, is a space where we get real with Black and Brown anglers, guides, outfitters, and outdoor enthusiasts about what matters most to them. Through candid conversations, On The Real explores the joys, challenges, and truths of living the outdoor life, from fly fishing and guiding to building businesses, mentoring others, and finding belonging in nature. It's about sharing wisdom, celebrating identity, and holding space for the real stories that often go unheard.
Ubuntu Fly Anglers is proudly a program of iFishiBelong, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive fishing community where everyone feels welcome, empowered, and connected. This organization is for everyone who supports all people, all techniques, and all species. Through programs such as All Kids Fish, DIY Fishing Events, Ubuntu Fly Anglers, and United Women on the Fly, we provide education, leadership opportunities, and a platform for underrepresented groups in the fishing community. True integration celebrates individual differences, elevating them within the collective whole rather than forcing uniformity. We promote equitable representation, offer financial assistance, and create spaces for all anglers to thrive. At iFishiBelong, we celebrate individuality within the collective love of fishing, ensuring that everyone has access to the sport and the opportunity to lead.
Go to https://ifishibelong.org/ubuntuflyanglers/on-the-real/ to learn more about the podcast.

Season 2- EP 18: Casting Beyond Boundaries: Dudley Edmondson’s Story of Nature and Purpose

In this episode, Dudley Edmondson joins the show to share his powerful journey from growing up in the urban core of Columbus, Ohio to building a life centered around nature in Duluth, Minnesota. He reflects on how fishing local rivers as a kid and escaping into the natural world helped him navigate personal challenges, ultimately shaping his path as a wildlife photographer, filmmaker, and author. Along the way, Dudley recounts unforgettable experiences—from photographing birds across the country to surviving a plane crash in the Arctic while filming a documentary.
The conversation goes deeper into his mission to expand representation in outdoor spaces, emphasizing that people cannot be expected to protect environments they’ve never had the chance to truly experience. He speaks candidly about the psychological and real barriers faced by people of color in the outdoors, challenging ideas like “inclusion” and “tolerance” in favor of true collaboration and belonging. Grounded in his love for fly fishing, storytelling, and community, Dudley offers a perspective that is both thought-provoking and deeply rooted in purpose.
Episode Notes - 
Dudley Edmondson
Books
Instagram
Podcast Overview - On The Real is all about making the invisible visible. This podcast, hosted by Ubuntu Fly Anglers, is a space where we get real with Black and Brown anglers, guides, outfitters, and outdoor enthusiasts about what matters most to them. Through candid conversations, On The Real explores the joys, challenges, and truths of living the outdoor life, from fly fishing and guiding to building businesses, mentoring others, and finding belonging in nature. It's about sharing wisdom, celebrating identity, and holding space for the real stories that often go unheard.
Ubuntu Fly Anglers is proudly a program of iFishiBelong, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive fishing community where everyone feels welcome, empowered, and connected. This organization is for everyone who supports all people, all techniques, and all species. Through programs such as All Kids Fish, DIY Fishing Events, Ubuntu Fly Anglers, and United Women on the Fly, we provide education, leadership opportunities, and a platform for underrepresented groups in the fishing community. True integration celebrates individual differences, elevating them within the collective whole rather than forcing uniformity. We promote equitable representation, offer financial assistance, and create spaces for all anglers to thrive. At iFishiBelong, we celebrate individuality within the collective love of fishing, ensuring that everyone has access to the sport and the opportunity to lead.
Go to https://ifishibelong.org/ubuntuflyanglers/on-the-real/ to learn more about the podcast.

EP 17: From the Bow River to Argentina: Kaith Palmaria's Journey

In this episode of On The Reel, Kaith Palmaria shares her journey into fly fishing, a passion she discovered during the COVID-19 pandemic while working as a nurse. What began as a way to cope with stress quickly evolved into a life-changing pursuit, leading her from her home waters on Alberta’s Bow River to unforgettable fishing experiences around the world, including hosting trips in Argentina targeting golden dorado and other species.
Kaith reflects on her love of spey casting for steelhead, the meditative and grounding nature of being on the water, and the powerful sense of community that fly fishing fosters. She also speaks candidly about the barriers to entry in the sport and her hope for a more inclusive and accessible future, where more people, regardless of background, can experience the joy, purpose, and connection that fly fishing has brought to her life.
Episode Notes - 
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/roneykaith/
Calgary Women Fly Fishers - https://www.instagram.com/calgarywomenflyfishers/
Out Fly Fishing Fly Shop - https://www.calgarysflyshop.com/
Podcast Overview - On The Real is all about making the invisible visible. This podcast, hosted by Ubuntu Fly Anglers, is a space where we get real with Black and Brown anglers, guides, outfitters, and outdoor enthusiasts about what matters most to them. Through candid conversations, On The Real explores the joys, challenges, and truths of living the outdoor life, from fly fishing and guiding to building businesses, mentoring others, and finding belonging in nature. It's about sharing wisdom, celebrating identity, and holding space for the real stories that often go unheard.
Ubuntu Fly Anglers is proudly a program of iFishiBelong, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive fishing community where everyone feels welcome, empowered, and connected. This organization is for everyone who supports all people, all techniques, and all species. Through programs such as All Kids Fish, DIY Fishing Events, Ubuntu Fly Anglers, and United Women on the Fly, we provide education, leadership opportunities, and a platform for underrepresented groups in the fishing community. True integration celebrates individual differences, elevating them within the collective whole rather than forcing uniformity. We promote equitable representation, offer financial assistance, and create spaces for all anglers to thrive. At iFishiBelong, we celebrate individuality within the collective love of fishing, ensuring that everyone has access to the sport and the opportunity to lead.
Go to https://ifishibelong.org/ubuntuflyanglers/on-the-real/ to learn more about the podcast.
 
 

EP: 16 Healing, Empowerment, Representation: The Story Behind Her Waters

Dr. Yolanda Edwards, founder of Her Waters, Inc. and retired Army veteran, sits down with Ubuntu Fly Anglers podcast manager Alisha Bartlett for a heartfelt and inspiring conversation about fishing, healing, and representation.
Dr. Edwards learned to fish from her mother, who learned from her grandmother, a three-generation legacy of anglers.
Yolanda’s work is not new. She founded the nonprofit Remain Hooked Outdoors in 2017 and, in January 2026, intentionally renamed the organization to Her Waters, Inc., a change that reflected deeper clarity and alignment with her mission.
Her Waters (Healing, Empowerment, and Representation) exists to show female veterans, Black women, and girls that fly fishing is for them, too.
Connect with Yolanda -
Personal Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mz.hookedonthefly/
Her Waters Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/herwatersinc/
Website - https://herwaters.org/
Podcast Overview -
On The Real is all about making the invisible visible. This podcast, hosted by Ubuntu Fly Anglers, is a space where we get real with Black and Brown anglers, guides, outfitters, and outdoor enthusiasts about what matters most to them. Through candid conversations, our episodes will be released on the first and third Mondays of each month.
Ubuntu Fly Anglers is proudly a program of iFishiBelong, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive fishing community where everyone feels welcome, empowered, and connected. This organization is for everyone who supports all people, all techniques, and all species. Through programs such as All Kids Fish, DIY Fishing Events, Ubuntu Fly Anglers, and United Women on the Fly, we provide education, leadership opportunities, and a platform for underrepresented groups in the fishing community. True integration celebrates individual differences, elevating them within the collective whole rather than forcing uniformity. We promote equitable representation, provide financial assistance, and create spaces where all anglers can thrive. At iFishiBelong, we celebrate individuality within the collective love of fishing, ensuring that everyone has access to the sport and the opportunity to lead.
Go to https://ifishibelong.org/ubuntuflyanglers/on-the-real/ to learn more about the podcast.

EP 14 : Outside Is My Church: Healing, Mental Health, and Fly Fishing with The Gentleman Lumberjack

After climbing the corporate ladder and building a successful career, Ashley White found his world unraveling after a traumatic medical crisis nearly took his wife’s life. In this deeply personal episode, Ash, now known as The Gentleman Lumberjack, opens up about his battle with anxiety, PTSD, and suicidal thoughts, and how traditional systems of support fell short. It was not until he began meeting his therapist outdoors in everyday parks and natural spaces that healing truly began. Fly fishing soon followed, becoming a practice of mindfulness, presence, and peace. Today, Ash guides others into the backcountry and onto the water, helping them reconnect with themselves through nature. His story is a powerful reminder of the healing that can happen when we finally step outside.
Episode Notes-
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/the_gentleman_lumberjack
Email - ash@thefishinggent.com
Business - https://www.thefishinggent.com
Organization -The Gentleman Lumberjack
Podcast Overview - On The Real is all about making the invisible visible. This podcast, hosted by Ubuntu Fly Anglers, is a space where we get real with Black and Brown anglers, guides, outfitters, and outdoor enthusiasts about what matters most to them. Through candid conversations, On The Real explores the joys, challenges, and truths of living the outdoor life—from fly fishing and guiding to building businesses, mentoring others, and finding belonging in nature. It's about sharing wisdom, celebrating identity, and holding space for the real stories that often go unheard.
Our episodes will be released on the first and third Mondays of each month.
Ubuntu Fly Anglers is proudly a program of iFishiBelong, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive fishing community where everyone feels welcome, empowered, and connected. This organization is for everyone who supports all people, all techniques, and all species. Through programs such as All Kids Fish, DIY Fishing Events, Ubuntu Fly Anglers, and United Women on the Fly, we provide education, leadership opportunities, and a platform for underrepresented groups in the fishing community. True integration celebrates individual differences, elevating them within the collective whole rather than forcing uniformity. We promote equitable representation, offer financial assistance, and create spaces for all anglers to thrive. At iFishiBelong, we celebrate individuality within the collective love for fishing, ensuring that every person has access to the sport and the opportunity to lead.
Go to https://ifishibelong.org/ubuntuflyanglers/on-the-real/ to learn more about the podcast.

EP 15: You Don’t Have to Be Perfect: Dr. Loleta Robinson on Fly Fishing, Identity, and the Power of Imperfection

In this episode of On the Real, host Bob Bartlett welcomes Dr. Loleta Robinson, a passionate fly angler, world traveler, and member of the Ubuntu Fly Anglers leadership team. Loleta shares her journey into fly fishing as a Black woman, the importance of finding community in the outdoors, and the power of embracing imperfection on and off the water. Their conversation is a heartfelt reflection on belonging, growth, and the joy of casting lines with purpose.
Episode Notes - 
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/doclola/
 
Podcast Overview - On The Real is all about making the invisible visible. This podcast, hosted by Ubuntu Fly Anglers, is a space where we get real with Black and Brown anglers, guides, outfitters, and outdoor enthusiasts about what matters most to them. Through candid conversations, On The Real explores the joys, challenges, and truths of living the outdoor life—from fly fishing and guiding to building businesses, mentoring others, and finding belonging in nature. It's about sharing wisdom, celebrating identity, and holding space for the real stories that often go unheard.
Our episodes will be released on the first and third Mondays of each month.
Ubuntu Fly Anglers is proudly a program of iFishiBelong, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive fishing community where everyone feels welcome, empowered, and connected. This organization is for everyone who supports all people, all techniques, and all species. Through programs such as All Kids Fish, DIY Fishing Events, Ubuntu Fly Anglers, and United Women on the Fly, we provide education, leadership opportunities, and a platform for underrepresented groups in the fishing community. True integration celebrates individual differences, elevating them within the collective whole rather than forcing uniformity. We promote equitable representation, offer financial assistance, and create spaces for all anglers to thrive. At iFishiBelong, we celebrate individuality within the collective love for fishing, ensuring that every person has access to the sport and the opportunity to lead.
Go to https://ifishibelong.org/ubuntuflyanglers/on-the-real/ to learn more about the podcast.

EP 13: More Than a Catch: Fly Fishing and Belonging with Erica Nelson

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, Bob Bartlett sits down with Erica Nelson, fly fishing guide, social justice advocate, and founder of REAL Consulting. For an inspiring conversation about identity, community, and the transformative power of fly fishing. Erica shares her unique journey from studying narcissism in online dating profiles to becoming one of the most recognized and respected voices in the fly fishing world.
Through storytelling and laughter, Erica reflects on her early days navigating the outdoor industry, the systemic barriers she's faced, and the meaningful connections she’s built with anglers across the country. She also dives into her work with Wanderland Outdoors, a first-of-its-kind outfitter led by and for historically excluded identities, and her ongoing mission to make the outdoors more inclusive and accessible for everyone.
Whether you're an angler, a change-maker, or just someone looking for a genuine and inspiring story, this episode delivers real talk, real passion, and a refreshing perspective on what it means to show up fully—on the water and in life.
Episode Notes-
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/awkwardangler
Facebook - facebook.com/ericanelson25
Email - AwkwardAngler@gmail.com@gmail.com
Business - https://www.awkwardangler.com/
Organization - https://www.awkwardangler.com/podcast
Podcast Overview - On The Real is all about making the invisible visible. This podcast, hosted by Ubuntu Fly Anglers, is a space where we get real with Black and Brown anglers, guides, outfitters, and outdoor enthusiasts about what matters most to them. Through candid conversations, On The Real explores the joys, challenges, and truths of living the outdoor life—from fly fishing and guiding to building businesses, mentoring others, and finding belonging in nature. It's about sharing wisdom, celebrating identity, and holding space for the real stories that often go unheard.
Our episodes will be released on the first and third Mondays of each month.
Ubuntu Fly Anglers is proudly a program of iFishiBelong, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive fishing community where everyone feels welcome, empowered, and connected. This organization is for everyone who supports all people, all techniques, and all species. Through programs such as All Kids Fish, DIY Fishing Events, Ubuntu Fly Anglers, and United Women on the Fly, we provide education, leadership opportunities, and a platform for underrepresented groups in the fishing community. True integration celebrates individual differences, elevating them within the collective whole rather than forcing uniformity. We promote equitable representation, offer financial assistance, and create spaces for all anglers to thrive. At iFishiBelong, we celebrate individuality within the collective love for fishing, ensuring that every person has access to the sport and the opportunity to lead.
Go to https://ifishibelong.org/ubuntuflyanglers/on-the-real/ to learn more about the podcast.

EP 12 : Healing in the Wild: Angel Massie on Mindfulness, Fly Fishing & Black Joy Outdoors

In this heartfelt episode of On the Reel, host Bob Bartlett speaks with Angel Massie, co-founder of Wanderland Outdoors, about building a more inclusive and healing outdoor experience for Black and Brown communities. Angel shares how her childhood by the Chesapeake Bay, her career in journalism, and her training in mindfulness all led to creating a nature-based guiding business alongside her husband, former NFL player Bobby Massie. From guided fly fishing to meditative hikes to open-flame meals under Colorado skies, Wanderland Outdoors is redefining what it means to belong in nature.
Angel opens up about the power of intentionality, the importance of representation, and the joy of seeing community gather on the land. Whether you're an avid angler or new to the outdoors, this conversation is a reminder that nature is a place for everyone—and healing is possible when we show up as our full selves.
You can also watch Angel as a Housewife on this season of the Real Housewives of Potomac.
Episode Notes - 
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/angelera
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/WanderlandOutdoors
Email - info@wanderlandoutdoors.com
Business - https://wanderlandoutdoors.com
Organization - Wanderland Outdoors  https://wanderlandoutdoors.com
Podcast Overview - On The Real is all about making the invisible visible. This podcast, hosted by Ubuntu Fly Anglers, is a space where we get real with Black and Brown anglers, guides, outfitters, and outdoor enthusiasts about what matters most to them. Through candid conversations, On The Real explores the joys, challenges, and truths of living the outdoor life—from fly fishing and guiding to building businesses, mentoring others, and finding belonging in nature. It's about sharing wisdom, celebrating identity, and holding space for the real stories that often go unheard.
Our episodes will be released on the first and third Mondays of each month.
Ubuntu Fly Anglers is proudly a program of iFishiBelong, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive fishing community where everyone feels welcome, empowered, and connected. This organization is for everyone who supports all people, all techniques, and all species. Through programs such as All Kids Fish, DIY Fishing Events, Ubuntu Fly Anglers, and United Women on the Fly, we provide education, leadership opportunities, and a platform for underrepresented groups in the fishing community. True integration celebrates individual differences, elevating them within the collective whole rather than forcing uniformity. We promote equitable representation, offer financial assistance, and create spaces for all anglers to thrive. At iFishiBelong, we celebrate individuality within the collective love for fishing, ensuring that every person has access to the sport and the opportunity to lead.
Go to https://ifishibelong.org/ubuntuflyanglers/on-the-real/ to learn more about the podcast.

EP 11: Hooks, Healing, and Ubuntu: The Fly Life of Scot Simmons

In this episode of On the Reel, host Bob Bartlett welcomes fly fishing guide, mentor, and community advocate Scot Simmons for a candid conversation about living with purpose both on and off the water. From his early days fishing Minnesota lakes with his father to guiding trips and mentoring youth today, Scot reflects on how fly fishing became a source of healing, identity, and joy. He shares how observing the life cycle of bugs, like the caddisfly, inspired a deeper understanding of intention and impact, drawing parallels between nature's rhythms and his own personal growth.
Scot also opens up about fatherhood, Black representation in outdoor spaces, and the importance of building inclusive communities like Ubuntu Fly Anglers. Whether he's wading a cold-water stream or helping others find their way to the river, Scot is committed to living a life that matters—and lifting others as he goes. This is more than a story about fishing; it’s about belonging, legacy, and the power of showing up fully in your own skin.
On August 14, 2025, the world lost Scot after a courageous battle with cancer. The Ubuntu family and the fly fishing community will deeply miss him. Scot is survived by his wife, Christy Simmons, and their son, Cooper. To support his family, please consider donating to his GoFundMe at [link in bio] or visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-scot-simmons-fight-against-cancer
Episode Notes - 
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/tribe.simmons
Obituary- https://www.hofffuneral.com/obituaries/scot-simmons
Go Fund Me- https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-scot-simmons-fight-against-cancer 
Podcast Overview - On The Real is all about making the invisible visible. This podcast, hosted by Ubuntu Fly Anglers, is a space where we get real with Black and Brown anglers, guides, outfitters, and outdoor enthusiasts about what matters most to them. Through candid conversations, On The Real explores the joys, challenges, and truths of living the outdoor life—from fly fishing and guiding to building businesses, mentoring others, and finding belonging in nature. It's about sharing wisdom, celebrating identity, and holding space for the real stories that often go unheard.
Our episodes will be released on the first and third Mondays of each month.
Ubuntu Fly Anglers is proudly a program of iFishiBelong, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive fishing community where everyone feels welcome, empowered, and connected. This organization is for everyone who supports all people, all techniques, and all species. Through programs such as All Kids Fish, DIY Fishing Events, Ubuntu Fly Anglers, and United Women on the Fly, we provide education, leadership opportunities, and a platform for underrepresented groups in the fishing community. True integration celebrates individual differences, elevating them within the collective whole rather than forcing uniformity. We promote equitable representation, offer financial assistance, and create spaces for all anglers to thrive. At iFishiBelong, we celebrate individuality within the collective love for fishing, ensuring that every person has access to the sport and the opportunity to lead.
Go to https://ifishibelong.org/ubuntuflyanglers/on-the-real/ to learn more about the podcast.

EP 10: Raising Role Models: Motherhood, Fly Fishing, and Angelica Talan’s Story

Sometimes a funny mishap is the doorway to something bigger. In this episode of On The Real, host Bob Bartlett talks with Angelica Talan, a longtime DC resident, content creator, and mom whose fly fishing story began when her daughter asked her to take her to the water. What followed was a smelly weekend of catfish forgotten in a car trunk, a leap into fly fishing, and eventually a new role as a brand ambassador and visible presence for women of color in the sport. Angelica reflects on motherhood, identity, and the power of being seen, reminding us that when our kids ask us to join them in something new, saying “yes” can change everything.
Episode Notes - 
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/angelicatalan/
United Women on the Fly - https://www.instagram.com/unitedwomenonthefly/
Dun Magazine - Introduce Your Kids to Fly Fishing
---------------
Podcast Overview - On The Real is all about making the invisible visible. This podcast, hosted by Ubuntu Fly Anglers, is a space where we get real with Black and Brown anglers, guides, outfitters, and outdoor enthusiasts about what matters most to them. Through candid conversations, On The Real explores the joys, challenges, and truths of living the outdoor life, from fly fishing and guiding to building businesses, mentoring others, and finding belonging in nature. It's about sharing wisdom, celebrating identity, and holding space for the real stories that often go unheard.
Ubuntu Fly Anglers is proudly a program of iFishiBelong, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive fishing community where everyone feels welcome, empowered, and connected. This organization is for everyone who supports all people, all techniques, and all species. Through programs such as All Kids Fish, DIY Fishing Events, Ubuntu Fly Anglers, and United Women on the Fly, we provide education, leadership opportunities, and a platform for underrepresented groups in the fishing community. True integration celebrates individual differences, elevating them within the collective whole rather than forcing uniformity. We promote equitable representation, offer financial assistance, and create spaces for all anglers to thrive. At iFishiBelong, we celebrate individuality within the collective love of fishing, ensuring that everyone has access to the sport and the opportunity to lead.
Go to https://ifishibelong.org/ubuntuflyanglers/on-the-real/ to learn more about the podcast.