Welcome to The Better Trace Project!

I’m Vincent Vendell, Head of Adventure. Fisherman. Hunter. Explorer. My journey into the outdoors started in a small town in the Mississippi Delta, Anguilla, MS. This is where I learned that the outdoors isn’t just a place to get away—it’s a space where we can connect, find peace, and build mental strength.

Growing up, I was surrounded by men who worked with the land. My father’s side of the family were farmers—raising pigs, hunting in the same forests they had for years. My uncles and father still spend time hunting those woods, passing down knowledge, and teaching us all that real strength comes not just from what we do but from how we support each other.

On my mother’s side, my grandfather was a catfish farmer, and my grandmother ran the kitchen. The meals they made, like fried fish in cast iron, were more than just about food. They were a way of coming together after long days of hard work. It was a time to share stories, bond, and build a sense of community that is sometimes hard to find in today’s world.

In our community, working the land wasn’t just about farming or fishing—it was about how we connected with each other and with ourselves. It helped us handle the tough times and gave us a way to clear our heads when things got overwhelming. But as time has passed, I’ve noticed many men losing touch with that connection. The outdoors, once a place of clarity and comfort, has become a distant idea for many.

That’s where I believe we can make a difference. Reconnecting with the outdoors is not just about learning new skills—it’s about finding the space to step back, clear your mind, and deal with what’s going on inside. In today’s world, where so many men are trying to navigate stress, emotions, and everything else, the outdoors can offer a real outlet for mental health.

I want to create a space for men to come together, to share knowledge, and to find balance. It’s not just about hunting or fishing—it’s about the conversations we have, the bonds we build, and how we support each other. It’s about finding ways to be better, both for ourselves and for those around us.

So, whether you’re new to the outdoors or looking for a new way to reconnect, this is an invitation to get involved. Let’s take that first step and build a community that’s strong, supportive, and ready to face whatever comes next—together. We're taking the dirt road, and I’d love for you to join me.

See you on the Backroad.

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