From Novice to Tracking Mentor: Chris Lindsey’s Urban Tracking Journey

Chris Lindsey, a practicing tracker since 2012, shared his journey with Craig Caudill, detailing his initial interest in tracking sparked by a $7 Tom Brown book. Chris recounted his first tactical survival class experience, where he carried excessive gear and struggled. Over the years, he refined his skills, focusing on urban tracking in Louisville, Kentucky, where he tracks animals like cats and raccoons using environmental cues and track traps. Chris emphasized the importance of experience and practical application over theoretical knowledge. He also discussed the challenges of tracking in urban settings and the value of tracking in enhancing survival skills.

Summary

• Chris Lindsey's Introduction and Early Tracking Experiences 0:03

  • Craig Caudill welcomes Chris Lindsey to the show and asks him to introduce himself and share his connection with Nature's Relentless Pursuit (NRP).

  • Chris Lindsey explains that he started tracking around 2012 as a hobby and initially bought a Tom Brown book to learn animal tracking.

  • Chris mentions that he eventually found NRP and took scout classes, which significantly advanced his tracking skills.

  • Craig recalls that Chris's first class with him was a tactical survival class, where Chris had no experience and brought a heavy camping setup.

• Challenges and Learning in Tactical Survival 1:39

  • Chris describes his first tactical survival class experience, where he brought a 50-pound tent and struggled with the physical demands of the class.

  • Craig humorously notes that Chris looked like a Sherpa carrying gear, and Chris admits that he had never slept outside before.

  • Chris explains how his gear and approach to camping have evolved over the years, now carrying minimalist camping equipment.

  • Craig and Chris discuss the importance of adapting to outdoor conditions and the value of experience in tracking and survival skills.

• Tracking in Urban Areas: Louisville, Kentucky 5:29

  • Craig asks Chris about his experiences tracking in an urban area like Louisville, Kentucky.

  • Chris explains that tracking in urban areas involves applying the same principles as tracking in the woods, focusing on cutting for sign and observing animal behavior.

  • Chris describes how he uses motion sensor lights and other environmental cues to track animals in the city, noting that animals are more active at night.

  • Chris shares his method of using track traps and mental notes to track animals in urban environments, comparing it to tracking in nature preserves.

• Adapting to Urban and Rural Tracking 56:43

  • Craig inquires about the differences between urban and rural tracking, asking Chris to explain his thought process and approach.

  • Chris explains that his initial panic in urban tracking has subsided as he gained experience and realized that tracking is a continuous process.

  • Chris emphasizes that urban tracking can be easier due to fewer pathways and more defined areas for animals to move through.

  • Chris shares his strategy of cutting for sign in urban areas, using various environmental cues and vegetation to track animals.

• Challenges and Learning in Tracking 57:18

  • Craig asks Chris about any frustrations or challenges he faced in tracking and how he overcame them.

  • Chris explains that his initial challenge was the lack of animals in his urban environment, leading him to track in parks and other areas with more wildlife.

  • Chris describes how studying tracks in parks helped him recognize and understand different animal tracks, which he could then apply to urban tracking.

  • Chris emphasizes the importance of gaining experience and observing wildlife to develop tracking skills.

• Tracking as a Skill and Lifestyle 57:32

  • Craig and Chris discuss the importance of tracking as a skill and how it can enhance other outdoor and survival skills.

  • Chris shares his approach to tracking, including using minimalist gear, understanding animal behavior, and leaving no trace.

  • Chris explains how tracking has become a lifestyle for him, allowing him to enjoy and understand the natural world around him.

  • Chris emphasizes that tracking is a continuous learning process and that gaining experience is crucial for developing skills.

• Books and Resources for Tracking 57:46

  • Craig asks Chris about any books or resources that have been helpful in his tracking journey.

  • Chris recommends several books, including "Combat Tracking Guide," "Tactical Tracking Operations," and "Practical Tracking Guide" by Mark Elbrock.

  • Chris mentions that Tom Brown's books were also helpful and that reading multiple books can provide a comprehensive understanding of tracking.

  • Chris emphasizes that while books are useful, practical experience and observation are essential for developing tracking skills.

• Stories and Experiences from Private Security Work 1:06:20

  • Craig asks Chris about the stories he often shares at the campfire, leading Chris to recount his experiences working private security for Prince and the Mini Kiss cover band.

  • Chris describes his first high-paying gig working for Prince, where he was instructed not to look Prince in the eye and the challenges of maintaining security.

  • Chris shares his experiences with the Mini Kiss cover band, including dealing with their wild behavior and managing fights among band members.

  • Chris humorously recounts the chaos and excitement of working with these unique and unpredictable clients.