Preserving Your Trophy: The Story Behind Tagged and Bagged

Johnny Bauman never expected that a frustrating moment in the field would spark an entirely new business venture. After taking some buddies on their first duck hunt where they bagged trophy greenheads, he found himself scrambling to properly preserve their birds for mounting. What followed was an hour-long ordeal of researching techniques and gathering supplies – all while thinking, "There's got to be a better way."

That moment of necessity became the birthplace of Tagged and Bagged, a comprehensive pre-taxidermy preservation system that's rapidly becoming essential gear for serious hunters. Johnny joins us to unpack how he transformed a simple idea into a full-fledged product line that's now backed by over 350 taxidermists across the country.

What's particularly fascinating about Johnny's journey is his unwavering commitment to quality and American manufacturing. Despite the significantly higher costs and logistical challenges, every component of Tagged and Bagged kits is 100% made in America. From the waterproof outer bags to the extra-thick freezer bags, wet towelettes, gauze for blood absorption, and even migratory bird tags for legal transportation – each element has been meticulously designed based on extensive research with taxidermy professionals.

The company's explosive growth allowed Johnny to leave his full-time job last December, but his motivation extends far beyond business success. Tagged and Bagged actively supports programs taking children with cancer on dream hunting trips, reflecting Johnny's belief that the outdoor experience offers profound healing and connection. "I don't care if you never buy my product," he explains. "I just want to build relationships and hear your hunting stories."

Whether you're an experienced waterfowl hunter who's ruined trophy birds in the past, a fishing enthusiast looking to properly preserve your catch, or someone who appreciates American-made products created by passionate outdoorsmen, this conversation reveals how innovation happens when authentic problems meet determined problem-solvers. Take a listen and discover the remarkable story behind the product that's changing how hunters preserve their hard-earned success.

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