HOUSTON, TX – March 4, 2026 — The latest episode of Hunting Matters, the official podcast of the Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF), takes listeners deep into the realities of hunting in South Africa. Host and guests unpack the practical, logistical, and conservation-driven dimensions of booking and experiencing a first African safari.
Featured in this episode is Steve Schwartz, owner, and outfitter of Nkwazi Safaris, a second-generation family hunting operation established in 1999. Born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa, Schwartz grew up immersed in hunting culture before earning a degree in exercise science and spending five years as a personal trainer. While building an outdoor action sports videography company, he remained closely involved in his father’s safari business, eventually committing full-time to professional hunting and conservation.
Today, Schwartz carries forward his family’s legacy while modernizing the safari experience through digital storytelling and client education. He documents hunts on his YouTube platform, Nkwazi’s South African Hunting Journal, and maintains professional affiliations as a full member of Custodians of Professional Hunting in South Africa, where he previously served on the shadow executive committee. He is also an HSCF Outfitter Member, reflecting his commitment to ethical standards and conservation-based hunting.
Joining Schwartz is Houston native Larry Hope, a business owner in the STEM-focused software sector who discovered hunting later in life. Over the past 28 years, Hope has evolved from pursuing Texas whitetails to developing a deep passion for African plains game. Having completed two safaris with Nkwazi Safaris, Hope offers a candid client perspective—addressing common misconceptions, travel concerns, equipment questions, and the emotional experience of hunting Africa for the first time.
Throughout the episode, the conversation addresses:
- The realities of safari costs versus common myths
- International travel with firearms and practical alternatives
- Health and safety concerns, including malaria and immunizations
- Rifle calibers, bow setups, and shot placement differences between African and North American game
- Trophy handling, taxidermy, and shipping logistics to the United States
- The role of conservation and community impact in modern South African hunting
Schwartz also provides advanced insight into concession strategy, client communication, and common first-time mistakes—while emphasizing flexibility, preparation, and trust in the professional hunter-client relationship.
For listeners considering their first safari, this episode delivers both technical guidance and reassurance. For seasoned international hunters, it offers professional nuance from an outfitter committed to ethical practices and long-term sustainability.
About Hunting Matters
Hunting Matters is the official, award-winning podcast of the Houston Safari Club Foundation. Featuring hunters, conservationists, outdoor professionals, and thought leaders, each episode dives deep into the stories that shape the future of wildlife and hunting heritage. Hunting Matters is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other major podcast platforms, as well as at https://hscfdn.org/hunting-matters-podcast/.
About Houston Safari Club Foundation
HSCF is a Houston-based nonprofit dedicated to preserving the sport of hunting through education, conservation, and the promotion of our hunting heritage. Learn more at wehuntwegive.org.
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