EP 225: CHRIS HUNT

Code of the West with Chris Hunt

Hello, Nomad Strength Tribe! Ross here, and today we're strapping on our spurs and venturing into the untamed territory of creativity with a very special guest. If you're someone who thrives on the spirit of the American West, cherishes the rugged outlines of a well-drawn comic, or simply enjoys the warmth of a good story by the fire, then saddle up, because this episode is crafted for you.

Our journey today is alongside Chris Hunt, the visual storyteller and creator of the Code of the West Instagram page that has recently seen a meteoric rise in popularity. But before the spotlight, before the thousands of followers, there was a kid with a passion for drawing and a heart captivated by the power of comic books.

Chris’s narrative is one that’s as rich and textured as the pages he fills. It's a tale that began with childhood sketches, shaped by the adversity of a latchkey upbringing and a profound sense of solitude that was only alleviated by his love for art. This is a story of resilience, a chronicle of a self-taught artist who chose to chase a dream with a pencil in hand and a relentless spirit.

What's incredibly striking about Chris’s path is the vital role mentorship played. His turning point came through a connection with a comic book legend on Flickr—a platform that today's generation might not even recognize. The counsel he received was transformative, echoing the age-old tradition of apprentices learning from masters, a practice that’s as rare as it is valuable.

Chris didn’t just stop at creating comic books; his journey took him through a transformative arc, shifting from industry work to retail, and finally, into a creative consultancy role that’s as unorthodox as it is inspiring. The moment that changed it all? A sketch during a Filson company meeting that led to an unexpected and career-defining partnership.

But it's not just about the art. Chris and I dove deep into the essence of storytelling, particularly in branding. We looked at companies like Filson and Black Rifle Coffee Company and how they wield narrative to create connections that transcend mere commerce. It’s about building a community, not just a following—a mantra that's especially pertinent in the digital age.

The West isn't just a place; it's a canvas for identity, a cultural heartbeat that throbs in the veins of our nation. Chris shares how inclusivity in Western narratives is essential, discussing the importance of broadening the lens to encompass stories that reflect the true diversity of the American experience.

Toward the end of our chat, we reflected on the parallels between the stoic wisdom found in Marcus Aurelius's "Meditations" and the values encoded in the cowboy culture. Chris's insights are a beacon for those of us navigating modern society, looking to foster stronger community ties, and seeking to contribute to a more inclusive dialogue.

For those eager to catch a glimpse of the wisdom shared, here’s a snippet from our conversation:

"I want it to bleed out into the real world in some way, and that's what I hope when I'm saying like, you know, like, take what we're talking about in the caption or the quote, go hold the door for somebody, wink, you know, like, say hi, tell the little kid who opens the door for somebody, like good job, like reinforce that."

This episode isn't just an interview; it's an odyssey. An exploration of what it means to be a modern-day creative cowboy, drawing not just on paper but from the deep wells of tradition, community, and the enduring spirit of the West.

So, if you're ready to ride into a sunset of inspiration and introspection, tune in to this episode of the Nomad Strength Show. Chris Hunt isn't just drawing stories; he's living one, and it’s one you don't want to miss.

Until next time, keep building that strength of body, mind, and spirit. And remember, the frontier isn't just a place; it's a state of mind.