Written by HLRBO Staff|
Last updated
Ryan “Cal” Callaghan, a podcaster and longtime conservation voice at MeatEater Media, has been named the incoming president and CEO of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA).
Founded in 2004, BHA has grown into a national organization with more than 40,000 members and chapters in 48 states. It describes itself as “the voice for our wild public lands, waters and wildlife.”
Callaghan brings a media-savvy profile to the role. He hosts a popular podcast, Cal’s Week in Review, and has appeared on The Joe Rogan Experience (podcast episode #2350) to discuss federal lands policy.
In choosing Callaghan over a more traditional nonprofit executive, BHA’s board signaled its intent to broaden messaging beyond policy circles and into the culture of hunting, fishing, and outdoor media.
BHA chair Chris Jenkins said Callaghan’s “leadership, authenticity and deep connection to the hunting and angling community make him the perfect person to guide BHA into its next chapter.”
Callaghan will continue his role at MeatEater, hosting his podcast and contributing video content, while leading BHA. He emphasized commitment to a non-partisan approach and to expanding BHA’s reach and membership.
BHA’s member base already runs into tens of thousands. With Callaghan at the helm, the group may accelerate its digital footprint, tap into younger outdoors-oriented audiences, and deepen partnerships with outdoor brands.
His experience includes guiding, hunting, and fishing in the West and helping shape the conservation ethos of First Lite.
Callaghan’s appointment marks a shift in strategy for BHA, signaling that the future of conservation advocacy may now depend as much on storytelling and cultural relevance as lobbying and legislation.
