When Paul Foshee says a good coon dog "don't run anything but a coon," he's speaking from decades of midnight adventures tracking through Arkansas backwoods with his faithful hounds. The second part of our conversation with Paul delivers pure storytelling gold as he recounts tales that few modern outdoorsmen will ever experience firsthand.
Picture this: Paul and his hunting partner Don tracking their dogs through miles of soybeans and woodlands, completely disoriented, only to discover they've crossed all the way to Hattieville Lake (Lake Cargile). Or the night they stood flipping quarters for hours while their dogs caught four raccoons without the men moving an inch. These aren't just hunting stories—they're windows into a vanishing culture where outdoor skills and camaraderie shaped men's characters.
Paul's adventures extend well beyond coon hunting. His whitewater canoeing experiences on Arkansas rivers and creeks reveal a man who embraced challenge and calculated risk. The storytelling comes alive as he describes navigating massive waves with his son Randy, their canoe filling with water, or nearly getting swept into a dam when a boat motor failed at exactly the wrong moment. "Put your life jacket on. If we get to the dam, get on it," was his practical advice in the face of potential disaster.
What makes these stories truly special isn't just the adventure, but the relationships woven throughout. When Paul speaks about the original TJ Virden (our host's great-grandfather), his voice softens with genuine emotion: "He's about as good a man as I ever knew." The story of TJ helping the young couple set up their first home without accepting payment reveals how these outdoor communities supported each other in ways that transcended mere friendship.
As Paul reflects on his life's journey, his philosophy emerges with simple clarity: "You don't ever own any property. You think you do, but you don't." He understands we're all just "dust in the wind," temporary stewards passing through. Yet his final wisdom encourages boldness: "If you don't try new things, you ain't never going to accomplish very much."
Listen now to experience these authentic stories from a man who's truly lived the outdoor life. Follow us on Instagram @natobpodcast or find us on Facebook at Natural Obsession for more content celebrating the human connection to nature.

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What is the Natural Obsession Podcast all about?

Growing up, we all had those moments in nature that stuck with us—whether it was a quiet walk in the woods or a grand adventure. On Natural Obsession, it’s our desire to bring those moments to life. As we talk to people from all walks of life we will learn how they fell in love with the outdoors, the different ways they enjoy it today, and explore how we can work together to ensure these spaces are around for years to come. It’s all about sharing memories from the outdoors and ensuring future generations can make their own.

To find out more about Natural Obsession and hosts, Daniel Emison and TJ Virden, visit our website at https://www.natob.co/.

If you have questions about episodes or have guest recommendations please email us at [email protected].

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