This installment of Gal Gab features the publisher and editor of Women’s Outdoor News, Barbara Baird, aka Babbs. She launched The WON in 2008 as an answer to the deficiency she saw for women’s contributions in the outdoor world. Babbs’ life story includes being a SAHM and raising four kids, Air Force wife (moving ten times over 18 years), newspaper and magazine editor and freelance writer. She loves all aspects of adventure, shooting and life in the outdoors.
Currently residing in southwestern Missouri, Barbara can be found creekin’ with friends and family, hunting (for everything from morel mushrooms to turkeys, squirrel and deer), is active in her church and local NWTF chapter. She also shoots regularly with the ladies of The Sunshine Shooting Club. Keep reading to find out her responses to our six standard questions.
1. Describe a typical day in your work life:
Wake up early when the sun comes up. Either go out on back deck area or open a window to listen for turkeys gobbling while having a cup of coffee (this time of year, anyway). Read my devotions and Bible, plan the day and check the calendar of events and pray. Write down my food choices for the day (No BS Weight Loss Plan has helped me to lose 30 pounds). Unload the dishwasher and make my bed. Get changed into workout clothes, and head into home office before 0900. Begin knocking out the list. Break for a work out. Break for lunch. Break for grandkids time. Break for junking with daughter. Brake for free junk on the roadside.
2. #1 piece of advice you would give other females who want to break into the industry?
I always remember the piece of advice I got about being a freelance writer. If you want to be a writer that gets paid for your work, you must send off your work so you can be paid. If you want to get into the outdoor industry, try something that gets you through the door – whether it’s being on a pro-staff, working for a company, or starting your own blog or YouTube Channel. Do your homework, ask for advice from people you want to emulate and figure it out. Don’t quit your day job until your outdoor job can support you.
3. What motivates you?
Life. It’s such a four-letter word at times, right? But every day is such a gift and I am thankful from the moment I am able to open my eyes to another day to when I close them at night. Every day (life) is another opportunity to do what I love to do – which is to communicate about my love for God’s gift of the outdoors to us. The fact that I get to do this now with my daughter as my partner, and with the entire team at The WON, makes it even better. I also have to give a huge shout-out to my husband of 44 years, Dr. Bomb, who has supported me throughout the years in this business, and also, who does fantastic photography on my behalf.
4. Most unexpected thing you’ve learned, while working in this industry?
If you don’t believe in yourself, no one else will.
5. Favorite product in the outdoor or shooting market right now?
I just purchased my fifth GTM concealed-carry bag. The quality is top-notch, and I love its functionality and fashion statement (with such clean, classic lines).
6. Let’s have some fun… what weapon would you use to battle a giant?
I love the story of David and Goliath, of how David forsook taking out the weapon of the day (wearing armor and carrying a spear) and concentrated on what is done in the world of personal defense: aim small, miss small. He had faith in God and in his abilities. So, not that I’d want to take a slingshot out with me, but you can bet I would take a sniper rifle and aim small, miss small – while maintaining a safe distance and having faith that I could make the shot. I don’t think the giant would even see it coming or know what hit him. Let’s just say, I love the element of surprise.
Besides being the publisher of Women’s Outdoor News, Barbara also pens a travel blog called “The Accidental Ozarkian.” Follow her adventures in the Ozarks on Facebook and Instagram, as well. She also owns a vintage and mid century modern resale business with her daughter: Mamas Maters and Junk.
Jackie Baird Richardson is an interior designer, editor at The WON and avid junker. Watch for her design tips and occasional crafting ideas, bringing the outdoors indoors. View all posts by Jackie Richardson
