Bethany Beathard is many things: a military wife, homeschooling mother of five, freelance writer, Savage Arms ambassador and more. Throughout her career, Bethany has created outdoors content aligning with her passion for hunting and her mission “to inspire women and families to embrace hunting, fishing, and self-sufficient living while building strong connections in the female outdoor community.” She is also one of four hosts for Ducks Unlimited’s newly released podcast “Ascend,” a role she is thrilled to fill.
Bethany has written for many publications – including Field & Stream, Hook & Barrel, MeatEater, the National Wild Turkey Federation and Hunting Life. She pens everything from interviews and product reviews to hunting tips and wild game recipes. Connecting with and helping others experience the great outdoors, especially hunting, is at the heart of everything Bethany does.
When not creating outdoors content, Bethany promotes homeschooling and shares the resources she uses to teach her children, who she’s able to stay home with all day as a mostly remote worker. “Creating precious memories for my kids to look back on is probably my favorite thing,” she shares. Bethany enjoys expanding her homesteading skills and she often gardens and employs different methods of food preservation. She also stands strong in her faith as a Christian, and you can find her trying to fit as many church events as possible into her busy schedule. Read on for this impressive woman’s answers to our six Gal Gab questions.
How would you describe a typical day in your work life?
A typical day for me is pretty busy. I have five kids that I homeschool. I typically get up, answer emails and start the kids with their work. Recently it’s been a little different for I have just got a new puppy and committed to training with her. I try to work when the kids are doing their school, tentatively. I’m pulled away often to answer questions, read aloud and grade. I fit in some solid work time after school is over, before it’s time to cook dinner. I love being a freelancer. It provides me the flexibility to pick up and go when I need to.
What is the #1 piece of advice you would give other women who want to break into your industry?
Be yourself and be authentic! Networking is key, if you’re looking into writing definitely join a writer’s association or multiple of them. Don’t be afraid to send an article pitch, give out your card or connect with others in the industry.
What motivates you?
As a mom I just have a heart for other women doing life like I am. I want to motivate, and inspire women to continue this way of life and pass it on. I don’t think some moms understand how influential we can be on the next generation of outdoorsmen and women. I want to make sure that this way of life is preserved for my kids and grandkids. I hope they can enjoy the outdoors as much as I have. That won’t happen if we do not continue building the number of sportsmen and women.
What is the most unexpected thing you’ve learned while working in your industry?
One of the most unexpected things about this industry is the willingness for mentorship. I unexpectedly joined the industry because somebody took me under a wing. There is so much value in having a mentor. Don’t be afraid to learn from others or ask questions, you never know where that conversation may lead!
What is your favorite product in the outdoor or shooting market right now?
There have been some neat innovations in the past few years. I’m a sucker for good gear and love to try new products. This past turkey season I really liked the new Chene lightweight Velo rubber boots – by far the most comfortable rubber boots I’ve worn.
Let’s have some fun … what weapon would you use to battle a giant?
This made me laugh! I would probably have to go with an automated .50 cal. or missile launcher. Hopefully I wouldn’t have to be that close to it.
Follow Bethany Beathard on Instagram @our.abundant.home, Facebook and LinkedIn.
Madeleine Golob, formerly “Anna,” is our intern at the “Women’s Outdoor News,” and manages the “Gal Gab” column. She also pens features and takes care of our Pinterest activities. Madeleine is a high school student who loves to write, read, study her family’s genealogy and play any musical instrument she can get her hands on. She also enjoys working Action Pistol matches while her parents compete and dreams of becoming a historian and writer. View all posts by Madeleine Golob
