EP 17 Common Mistakes Survival And Primitive Skills Students Make (Mostly Our Own) Skillist podcast

1:28:52

Ep 21 is all about Awareness! In this conversation, the hosts explore the concept of awareness, discussing its importance in daily life and the challenges posed by modern distractions. They delve into how cultural influences and technology shape our perception and attention, emphasizing the power of choice in enhancing awareness. The discussion includes techniques for training awareness, the impact of movement, and the distinction between mindfulness and mindlessness. The conversation concludes with creative strategies for improving awareness and the significance of engaging the senses. This conversation delves into the multifaceted nature of awareness, particularly in the context of nature and survival. The speakers explore how awareness is influenced by environment, fear, and emotional states, emphasizing the importance of intuition and the relationships we have with our surroundings. They discuss the role of questions in enhancing awareness and the necessity of detaching from preconceived narratives to fully engage with the present moment. 00:00 Introduction to Awareness 02:48 The Challenge of Modern Distractions 05:49 Cultural Influences on Awareness 08:55 The Impact of Technology on Attention 11:45 The Power of Choice in Awareness 15:08 Perceptual Spackling and Brain Patterns 17:55 Ruts in Awareness and Movement 21:07 Training Awareness Through Scanning 23:55 Mindfulness vs. Mindlessness 27:09 Engaging the Senses for Awareness 30:01 Creative Techniques for Enhancing Awareness 32:49 The Role of Movement in Awareness 35:58 Flow State and Awareness 38:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 47:58 Understanding Awareness in Nature 52:31 The Impact of Environment on Awareness 56:29 The Role of Fear and Threat in Awareness 01:01:01 Sensing Presence and Intuition 01:09:15 The Relationship Between Awareness and Emotion 01:15:01 Detachment and Attachment in Awareness 01:20:01 The Importance of Questions in Awareness…

Skillist

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Skillist Podcast EP 19 Winter Survival 1:08:30

4 days ago1:08:30

1:08:30

In this episode of the Skills Podcast, Brad and Matt delve into the complexities of winter survival, discussing the challenges posed by cold weather, the importance of shelter and fire, and the necessity of proper gear and clothing. They share insights on navigation, water management, and cultural perspectives on survival skills, emphasizing the need for preparation and awareness in winter conditions. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the challenges and skills associated with winter survival, including foraging, hunting, and the importance of gear maintenance. They discuss the significance of firearms as survival tools, the art of fire making, and the beauty of tracking wildlife in winter. The conversation also touches on the joys of surfing in cold waters and concludes with thoughts on future topics for discussion. Winter survival is extremely challenging and requires preparation. Shelter building is a critical skill that takes time and energy. Fire is essential for warmth, but a sleeping bag is more important. Proper clothing and gear can make a significant difference in survival. Water management is crucial to prevent freezing and dehydration. Cultural practices influence survival strategies in winter. Navigation skills are vital in winter conditions. Hygiene plays a key role in maintaining health during winter survival. Understanding the landscape can aid in finding shelter and resources. Practice survival skills in safe environments before facing real challenges. Winter in the Pacific Northwest can be brutal and wet. Foraging during winter is often unrealistic due to snow cover. Understanding animal behavior is crucial for winter hunting. A 410 over under 22 firearm is recommended for survival situations. Taking time to maintain gear is essential for survival. Fire making skills are vital and should be practiced regularly. Tracking wildlife in winter offers unique insights into animal behavior. Experiencing winter's beauty can be rewarding despite its challenges. Surfing in cold waters connects you with nature in a unique way. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Winter Survival 05:41 Challenges of Winter Survival 10:38 Shelter Building Techniques 15:00 Fire and Warmth in Winter 20:33 Clothing and Gear for Cold Weather 26:01 Water Management in Winter 32:45 Cultural Perspectives on Winter Survival 37:03 Winter Survival Challenges 40:13 Foraging and Hunting in Winter 42:29 Firearms and Survival Tools 44:20 The Importance of Gear Maintenance 48:39 Fire Making Skills in Winter 51:18 Tracking Wildlife in Winter 54:00 Experiencing the Beauty of Winter 01:00:14 Surfing and Nature's Wonders 01:07:12 Closing Thoughts and Future Topics…

Skillist

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EP 23 Blades - Knives, Saws, & Axes for Survival and Skills 1:00:34

4 days ago1:00:34

1:00:34

In this episode of the Skillist Podcast, hosts Brad and Matt delve into the world of cutting tools, discussing various types of knives, saws, and hatchets. They explore what makes a good survival knife, the efficiency of different cutting tools, and the importance of craftsmanship in knife making. The conversation also touches on the practical applications of machetes and the ongoing debate between saws and axes for outdoor survival. Throughout the discussion, the hosts share personal experiences and insights, emphasizing the value of comfort, efficiency, and supporting local makers in the outdoor gear community. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of tool selection, sharpening techniques, and the importance of maintaining knives and other tools. They share personal anecdotes and practical advice on how to effectively use and care for tools, emphasizing the significance of safety and innovation in craftsmanship. The discussion also touches on the art of knife making, repurposing materials, and learning from mistakes in the crafting process, providing valuable insights for both novice and experienced craftsmen. The best survival knife is any knife that you have. A comfortable handle is crucial for effective use. Calories matter when choosing between cutting tools. Machetes are versatile and efficient for various tasks. Supporting local knife makers is important for craftsmanship. American-made machetes tend to be thicker and less flexible. A hand and a half axe can be very useful in the field. Saws are generally more efficient than axes for cutting. Custom knives can be tailored to individual needs. Craftsmanship in knife making enhances the overall experience. Tool selection is crucial for efficiency and safety. A sharp knife is safer and more effective than a dull one. Regular sharpening is essential for maintaining tool performance. Stropping can prolong the sharpness of a knife. Repurposing materials can lead to innovative tool designs. Understanding the importance of angle consistency in sharpening is key. Maintaining tools is vital to prevent rust and damage. Learning from mistakes is an integral part of craftsmanship. Using the right tools for specific tasks can enhance productivity. Simplicity in tool selection can lead to a more enjoyable crafting experience. Chapters 00:00 Exploring Cutting Tools: Knives, Saws, and Hatchets 06:02 Survival Knives: What Makes Them Effective? 12:03 The Great Debate: Saw vs. Axe 18:05 Machetes: The Versatile Cutting Tool 24:01 Craftsmanship in Knives: Supporting Local Makers 29:42 The Art of Tool Selection 32:36 Sharpening Techniques and Safety 35:39 Preserving Knife Sharpness 40:53 Innovative Knife Making and Repurposing 47:40 The Importance of Tool Maintenance 51:27 Learning from Mistakes in Craftsmanship…

Skillist

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Skillist Podcast EP 22 Navigation for Survival (Dont Get Lost!) Tips, Tricks, Myths 1:08:56

18 days ago1:08:56

1:08:56

In this episode of the Skillist Podcast, hosts Matt Corradino and Brad Salon delve into the essential skill of navigation, discussing its importance for safety in the wilderness and how it intertwines with naturalist knowledge. They explore various techniques for improving navigation skills, including understanding maps, terrain association, and the significance of cardinal directions. The conversation emphasizes the need for practical navigation tools, the role of memory in navigation, and the benefits of exploration and wandering as methods for enhancing navigational abilities. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of navigation, exploring various methods and skills essential for traversing landscapes. They discuss the evolution of direction-giving, the importance of tracking animal trails, and the art of wandering without a destination. The conversation also highlights the significance of celestial navigation and practical techniques for improving navigational skills, emphasizing the need for practice and awareness in outdoor settings. Navigation is a crucial skill for safety in the wilderness. Understanding maps and terrain is essential for effective navigation. Practicing cardinal direction awareness can significantly improve navigation skills. Using a compass is a fundamental tool for navigation. Terrain association helps in understanding the landscape better. People often rely too much on technology for navigation. Exploration and getting lost can enhance navigational skills. Memory plays a vital role in effective navigation. Learning to navigate based on terrain features is more practical than strict map following. Wandering can lead to discovering new and interesting places. The age of direction giving has changed with technology. Navigating without GPS can enhance awareness of the landscape. Tracking animal trails can lead to unexpected discoveries. Celestial navigation is a reliable method for finding direction. Practicing navigation skills is essential for outdoor enthusiasts. Understanding the environment can improve navigation accuracy. Wandering without a destination can lead to unique experiences. Using sound can aid in navigating unfamiliar areas. Basic orienteering skills are widely available and easy to learn. Sharing knowledge about navigation can benefit others. titles Mastering Navigation Skills for Wilderness Survival The Art of Navigation: Techniques and Tips Exploring the Landscape: A Guide to Navigation From Maps to Memory: Navigational Skills Uncovered Navigating the Wilderness: Essential Skills for Safety The Importance of Terrain Association in Navigation Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Navigation Skills 03:10 The Importance of Navigation for Safety 08:43 Understanding Maps and Terrain Association 13:18 Developing Cardinal Direction Awareness 17:40 Practical Navigation Tools and Techniques 21:43 Exploring Navigation Beyond Maps 27:43 The Role of Memory in Navigation 34:18 Wandering and Exploration as Learning Tools 35:23 Navigating the Landscape of Directions 39:40 The Art of Wandering and Exploration 43:50 Tracking and Animal Trails 49:24 Navigational Skills and Techniques 51:38 Celestial Navigation and the Night Sky Click here to watch a video of this episode.…

Skillist

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Skillist Podcast EP 20 Flint Knapping History (What does knapping say about humans and how we learn) 1:15:03

5 weeks ago1:15:03

1:15:03

In this episode of the Skillist Podcast, hosts Matt Corradino and Brad Salon delve into the fascinating world of flint knapping, exploring its historical significance, the challenges of archaeological dating, and the complexity of techniques involved. They discuss the evolution of human intelligence in relation to stone tools, the differences in learning processes between past and present, and the spiritual aspects of craftsmanship. The conversation highlights the intricate relationship between intuition and systematic learning in developing skills, ultimately reflecting on how these ancient practices inform our understanding of human evolution and creativity. This conversation delves into the evolution of tool making, particularly focusing on flint knapping and its cultural significance. The speakers discuss how historical contexts, practical experiences, and the interplay of creation and use shape our understanding of primitive skills. They emphasize the importance of hands-on experience in mastering these skills and critique modern perspectives that often overlook the practical aspects of tool making. The discussion also touches on the risks associated with flint knapping and the collective creativity involved in crafting tools. Flint knapping has a rich history intertwined with human evolution. The oldest known flake tools date back millions of years. Stone tools have significantly influenced human intelligence and development. Archaeological dating is complex and often uncertain. Replicating ancient flint knapping techniques is a challenging task. Intuition plays a crucial role in learning and mastering skills. The learning process in ancient times was likely more fluid and spiritual. Modern perspectives on learning may not fully capture ancient practices. The evolution of skills can be seen as a circular process rather than linear. Understanding the past requires acknowledging the depth of human experience. The evolution of tool making reflects cultural changes. Practical experience is crucial for understanding tool effectiveness. Historical contexts influence the craftsmanship of tools. The interplay of creation and use enhances learning. Experimental archaeology provides insights into ancient practices. Modern perspectives often overlook the importance of primitive skills. Material choice significantly impacts tool functionality. Injury risks in flint knapping are often underestimated. Collective creativity can lead to unexpected designs in tool making. Understanding the history of tools requires a balance of intuition and analysis. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Flint Knapping 02:10 The Historical Context of Flint Knapping 07:39 The Challenges of Archaeological Dating 10:11 The Complexity of Flint Knapping Techniques 18:38 Intuition vs. Systematic Learning in Flint Knapping 25:10 The Spiritual Aspect of Learning Flint Knapping 34:40 The Evolution of Flint Knapping Skills 35:04 The Evolution of Tool Making 38:07 Cultural Influences on Tool Craftsmanship 40:56 The Importance of Practical Experience 44:56 Understanding the History of Tools 49:06 The Interplay of Creation and Use 52:52 The Role of Experimental Archaeology 57:07 Modern Perspectives on Primitive Skills 01:00:57 The Significance of Material Choice 01:05:00 Injury Risks in Flint Knapping 01:09:06 Collective Creativity in Tool Making…

Skillist

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Skillist Podcast EP 18 Survival Trips (How to test your skills and get the most out of your trip) 1:20:17

6 weeks ago1:20:17

1:20:17

In this episode of the Skillist Podcast, hosts Matt Corradino and Brad Salon delve into the nuances of survival trips, emphasizing the importance of practical experience in survival skills. They discuss the balance between learning and practicing essential skills like shelter building, water sourcing, and food procurement, while also highlighting the mental resilience required in survival situations. The conversation explores the significance of local knowledge and the need for structured goals in survival training, ultimately advocating for a hands-on approach to mastering survival techniques. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of survival trips, emphasizing the importance of mental resilience, group dynamics, and the necessity of commitment. They discuss how expectations can lead to disappointment and how a shift in perspective can enhance the survival experience. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced during these trips, including the impact of individual attitudes on group morale and the significance of post-trip reflections for personal growth. This conversation explores the transformative experience of survival trips, emphasizing the simplification of life in survival situations, the transition back to civilization, the importance of storytelling and reflection, navigating the post-experience hangover, and the deep connection to nature and community that these experiences foster. Take Aways Survival trips provide practical learning opportunities. Having faith or a belief system can improve survival outcomes. Focus on specific skills during survival training trips. Shelter, water, and fire are foundational survival skills. Food procurement is a long-term study and challenge. Local knowledge is crucial for effective survival. Comfort levels can only be expanded through real experiences. Mental resilience is key in survival situations. Setting clear goals enhances the learning process. Survival training should simulate real-life challenges. Group trips create peer pressure that encourages commitment. Mental commitment is crucial for survival experiences. Expectations can lead to disappointment during trips. The mindset of discomfort can lead to personal growth. Morale within a group can significantly affect the experience. Survival skills require a shift in perspective. Discomfort is a necessary part of learning survival skills. Post-trip reflections are essential for integrating experiences. Nature is indifferent to individual comfort or discomfort. Survival trips should be treated seriously, with contingency plans in place. Survival situations simplify life, focusing on immediate needs. Returning to civilization can feel surreal and disorienting. Storytelling helps reinforce lessons learned during experiences. Journaling is crucial for processing and retaining insights. Experiences in nature foster a deep connection to the environment. Sharing food and experiences creates intimacy among participants. Post-experience hangovers are common and require gentle self-care. Awareness of our impact on the earth is heightened in survival situations. Engaging fully in experiences enhances personal growth. The importance of community and shared experiences cannot be overstated.…

Skillist

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EP 17 Common Mistakes Survival and Primitive Skills Students Make (Mostly Our Own) 1:00:17

7 weeks ago1:00:17

1:00:17

In our 17th Episode Brad Salon of the Roots School and Matt Corradino of Caribbean Earth Skills talk about common mistakes we and other students we teach make when approaching learning the skills. Both in short classes and over a long time there are a lot of mistakes you can avoid to save yourself time and grief. Let us know your thoughts in the comments or future topics you'd like to hear us discuss! Check out Matt at https://www.caribbeanearthskills.com/ Check out Brad at https://rootsvt.com/…

Skillist

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Skillist EP 16 Making Babies with Ruth Ann Colby Martin - From Survival Instructor to Midwife 1:08:49

8 weeks ago1:08:49

1:08:49

In our 16th Episode of the podcast we finally have our first guest, Ruth Ann Colby Martin. Ruth Ann was an instructor at the Tracker School in the early 2000's when Matt and I attended our Standard courses (the basic intro class). Since then she has gone on to become a midwife, a midwife instructor, an author, mother, and speaker. In this episode expect to learn what she thinks about the connections between tracking, awareness, survival, and helping to deliver babies. Her thoughts on becoming a parent, supporting birth, and how to prepare for a birth in a context outside of a hospital and much more! Let us know your thoughts in the comments or future topics you'd like to hear us discuss! Check out Matt at https://www.caribbeanearthskills.com/ Check out Brad at https://rootsvt.com/…

Skillist

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Skillist Podcast EP 15 Keeping The Fire Stoked (How to stay focused & disciplined on skills) 1:08:44

9 weeks ago1:08:44

1:08:44

In our 15th Episode Brad Salon of Roots School and Matt Corradino of Caribbean Earth Skills discuss how to keep the passion for skills and discipline to work on them once you have left a class or finished some kind of education. Expect to learn how to incorporate skills into your everyday life. How to progress your challenges to keep yourself facing new edges, and how to make the skills new for yourself once you have been at it for a long time. Let us know your thoughts in the comments or future topics you'd like to hear us discuss! Check out Matt at https://www.caribbeanearthskills.com/ Check out Brad at https://rootsvt.com/…

Skillist

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Skillist Podcast EP 14 Tropical Survival 1:21:56

9 weeks ago1:21:56

1:21:56

In our 14th episode Brad Salon of the Roots School joins Matt Corradino of Caribbean Earth Skills at his home in St Croix. In this episode we talk about survival in the tropics, and cover topics such as hazards, tropes and myths of survival, and what survival used to look like here in ages past. Let us know your thoughts in the comments or future topics you'd like to hear us discuss! Check out Matt at https://www.caribbeanearthskills.com/ Check out Brad at https://rootsvt.com/…

Skillist

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Skillist EP 13 Flint Knapping - Copper Bopper Haters (How to approach learning to knap) 1:12:26

9 weeks ago1:12:26

1:12:26

In our 13th episode Matt Corradino of Caribbean Earth Skills and Brad Salon of Roots School talk about Flint Knapping. Expect to learn why they love to knap, what their favorite rock sources are, their opinions about tool kits, how to approach learning it and much more. Let us know your thoughts in the comments or future topics you'd like to hear us discuss! Check out Matt at https://www.caribbeanearthskills.com/ Check out Brad at https://rootsvt.com/…

Skillist

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Skillist Podcast EP 12 Tracking Fact Vs Fiction 50:48

9 weeks ago50:48

50:48

In our 12th episode Matt Corradino and Brad Salon talk tracking. We discuss what is hard about it, what is hard to teach about it, and where we see the lines of what is possible in the world of tracking. Expect to learn what role, if any, intuition plays in tracking, what it takes to age a track, what a "pressure release" is, and what pitfalls face people trying to learn tracking. Let us know your thoughts in the comments or future topics you'd like to hear us discuss! Check out Matt at https://www.caribbeanearthskills.com/ Check out Brad at https://rootsvt.com/…

Skillist

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Skillist Podcast EP 11 Surviving Alone (The Myth of the Lone Survivalist) 1:05:54

9 weeks ago1:05:54

1:05:54

In our 11th Episode Matt Corradino and Brad Salon talk about the idea of one person surviving in nature and how glamorized and unrealistic it is. Expect to learn how groups are best for survival, what skills are best done alone, how being alone has created difficulties when doing skills or in survival situations, and when being alone is ideal from our perspectives. Did you get into survival with the idea of being a lone survivor? Let us know your thoughts in the comments or future topics you'd like to hear us discuss! Check out Matt at https://www.caribbeanearthskills.com/ Check out Brad at https://rootsvt.com/…

Skillist

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Skillist Podcast EP 10 Caretaking The Land (Stewardship and Why Leave No Trace Doesn't Make Sense) 1:10:32

9 weeks ago1:10:32

1:10:32

In our 10th Episode Matt and Brad talk about caretaking, or stewarding the landscape. We talk about engaging with the landscape through harvesting and collecting, selective cutting and clearing, planting and more. Expect to learn about having long term relationships with the landscape, our failures and successes, and our opinions on how to build biodiversity, for the sake of human survival as well as the landscapes own benefit. Let us know your thoughts in the comments or future topics you'd like to hear us discuss! Check out Matt at https://www.caribbeanearthskills.com/ Check out Brad at https://rootsvt.com/…

Skillist

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EP 9 Scout Skills- The What and Why (No, NOT Boyscouts) Awareness, Stealth, Self Defense, Survival 1:20:05

9 weeks ago1:20:05