Roots Videos

The conversation covers a range of topics including a survival skills event recap, teaching wilderness skills, carving and woodworking, teaching flint knapping, and flint knapping class preparation. Matt Corradino and Brad Salon share their experiences and challenges in teaching and learning these skills, providing insights into the process and techniques involved. The conversation delves into fundamental flintknapping skills, the definition of flake vs. spall, understanding the center line and edge, teaching challenges and approaches, and flintknapping materials and safety. The speakers discuss pressure flaking, bifacing, staging, spalling, tool use, and the importance of the center line and edge. They also address teaching strategies, student understanding, communication challenges, material selection, safety precautions, and injury stories. The conversation delves into the art of flintknapping, exploring ancient techniques, the creation of a napping pit, debates about napping tools, the chess match of flintknapping, learning and napping in community, and the joy of napping. The hosts share their experiences and insights, providing a comprehensive exploration of the world of flintknapping.

Takeaways

* Teaching wilderness skills requires patience and a focus on the fundamentals.
* Carving and woodworking involve a balance between functionality and artistic expression. Fundamental flintknapping skills are essential for understanding pressure flaking, bifacing, and staging.
* Defining flake vs. spall is crucial for tool use and teaching challenges.
* Understanding the center line and edge is key to effective flintknapping instruction and student engagement.
* Flintknapping materials and safety require careful consideration and adherence to safety measures. Ancient techniques and traditions influence modern flintknapping practices.
* Learning and napping in a community setting enhances the experience and skill development.

Chapters

* 00:00 Introduction and Setting
* 05:00 Carving and Woodworking
* 09:56 Teaching Flint Napping
* 17:59 Flint Napping Class Preparation
* 23:34 Fundamental Flintknapping Skills
* 30:42 Teaching Challenges and Approaches
* 36:23 Flintknapping Materials and Safety
* 48:18 The Art of Flintknapping
* 56:07 Creating a Napping Pit
* 01:05:36 The Chess Match of Flintknapping
* 01:11:03 The Joy of kNapping

https://rootsvt.com/

https://www.caribbeanearthskills.com/

In this episode Matt Corradino and Brad Salon get into a nice little conversation about bow building before setting into the main topic, survival shows. With Matt's first hand experience on Alone and Brad's years of filming and editing documentaries, they discuss how the sausage is made, who the shows are for, and how they are effecting the field.

https://rootsvt.com/

https://www.caribbeanearthskills.com/

Takeaways

* Bow and arrow classes involve a detailed process of crafting bows and arrows.
* Woodworking techniques play a crucial role in arrow making and bow design.
* Understanding stack reduction is essential in optimizing bow performance. Bow making in the tropics is influenced by the growth patterns of trees.
* Survival shows are heavily edited for emotional manipulation and entertainment. Basic survival needs are limited and focused, unlike the complexities of modern life.
* TV shows have both positive and negative effects on the practice and promotion of survival skills.

Chapters

* 00:00 Bow and Arrow Classes
* 04:57 Woodworking Techniques and Bow Design
* 20:00 Bow Design and Stack Reduction
* 25:07 Bow Length and Performance
* 30:14 Survival Show Realities
* 43:49 Emotional Manipulation in Filmmaking
* 53:19 Legal Considerations in Survival Situations
* 58:37 Impact of TV Shows on Survival Skills
* 01:16:07 Teaching Survival Skills

Join us for another guest episode with Bill Kaczor of Ancestral Knowledge. Host of MAPS Meet Skills gathering and long time student of the skills. Hilarious, wise cracking and oddly wise, Bill has been a champion of primitive skills since the good old days...In this interview, Bill shares his passion for primitive skills gatherings, community building, and the joy of learning and teaching outdoor skills. Discover the behind-the-scenes of organizing events, the importance of community, and practical insights into primitive crafts.

00:00 Introduction to the Skillist Podcast

04:01 Bill Kaser's Journey into Wilderness Skills

09:06 Experiences with Hunting and Squeamishness

13:23 The Groundhog Story: A Lesson in Hunting

17:50 Reflections on Hunting and Nature Connection

22:06 Tracking the Hunt: Lessons Learned

25:42 The Shift to Firearms: Practical Hunting Strategies

27:56 The Connection Between Urban Adventure and Nature

34:13 The Primitive Skills Gathering: Community and Connection

40:18 The Challenges of Organizing Large Events

50:18 Reflections on Community and Event Size

51:19 The Growth of Skills Gatherings

54:04 Learning from Diverse Instructors

56:32 Experiences in Teaching and Learning

59:40 Family Involvement in Skills

01:03:33 Memorable Moments in Flint Knapping

01:05:58 The Challenges of Modern Materials

01:10:31 Closing Thoughts and Future Gatherings

resources

Ancestral Knowledge Organization - https://ancestralknowledge.org/

Roots Rendezvous - https://rootsrendezvous.com

https://rootsvt.com

https://www.caribbeanearthskills.com/

The Skillist Podcast, hosted by Brad Salon (Roots School) and Matt Corradino (Caribbean Earth Skills), is *a raw, conversational show where experienced instructors "talk shop" and debate primitive skills, tracking, and modern survival techniques*. The show focuses on practical wilderness living over "flashy gear," covering topics from ancient technologies to community-based survival strategies

In this episode of the Skillist Podcast, hosts Brad Salon and Matt Corradino delve into the world of primitive skills, exploring their personal journeys, motivations, and the evolving significance of these skills in modern society. They discuss the challenges of teaching these skills to the next generation, the value of handcrafted craftsmanship, and the balance between technology and traditional skills. The conversation also touches on mental health, community connections, and the intrinsic joy of learning and sharing skills, culminating in a reflection on the cool factor of primitive skills and their lasting impact on personal fulfillment and self-reliance.


The motivation for learning primitive skills evolves over time.
Teaching skills to the next generation can be challenging yet rewarding.
Handcrafted skills hold significant value in a technology-driven world.
Generational perspectives influence the importance placed on survival skills.
Balancing technology with primitive skills is essential for self-reliance.
Mental health benefits can arise from engaging in hands-on skills.
Community and connection enhance the learning experience of skills.
Status within a community can drive the pursuit of skill mastery.
Practical applications of skills can lead to greater self-sufficiency.
The joy of learning and sharing skills fosters a deeper appreciation for craftsmanship.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Primitive Skills and Personal Journey
02:47 The Evolution of Motivation for Primitive Skills
05:49 Reflections on Teaching and Parenting in Primitive Skills
08:16 The Value of Traditional Skills in Modern Society
11:29 The Impact of Industrialization on Skill Transmission
14:05 Mental Health and the Search for Meaning
16:38 Romanticizing the Past vs. Modern Comforts
19:24 The Trade-offs of Modern Technology
22:17 Perceptions of Work and Fulfillment
25:08 The Journey of Finding Passion in Primitive Skills
34:12 The Rugged Reality of Outdoor Jobs
34:43 Finding Fulfillment in Skills vs. Mental Health
37:08 The Role of Community in Skill Development
39:49 The Importance of Teamwork and Meaning in Skills
41:49 The Connection Between Skills and Nature
43:28 Self-Reliance and the Value of Primitive Skills
46:23 Building Competence and Confidence Through Skills
50:46 Raising the Next Generation of Skilled Individuals
53:03 The Benefits of Primitive Skills in Hunting
57:05 Community Status and Personal Fulfillment
01:01:49 The Lasting Value of Primitive Skills

Keywords

survival, myths, lean-to, debris shelters, navigation, gear, emotional regulation, community, food preservation, learning


Summary

In this conversation, Brad Salon and Matt Corradino explore various survival myths and misconceptions, emphasizing the importance of practical skills over flashy gear. They discuss the effectiveness of different shelter types, navigational tricks, and the emotional challenges faced in survival situations. The duo also highlights the significance of community and teamwork in survival scenarios, as well as the cultural technologies related to food preservation. Ultimately, they stress that the journey of learning survival skills is demanding but rewarding.


Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Context
01:56 Dumbest Survival Myths
03:18 Lean-To Shelters: Pros and Cons
06:06 Debris Shelters and Their Effectiveness
09:51 Navigational Myths: Moss and Other Tricks
11:30 Survival Gear: What's Worth It?
14:46 The Importance of Skills Over Gear
17:04 Emotional Regulation in Survival Situations
23:10 Community and Teamwork in Survival
25:17 Cultural Technologies and Food Preservation
47:21 The Journey of Learning Survival Skills

Summary

In this conversation, Brad Salon and Matt Corradino delve into the intricacies of hunting preparation, discussing various aspects such as food sources, hunting strategies, gear preferences, and the emotional connections to their equipment. They share personal anecdotes and insights on the challenges and joys of hunting, emphasizing the importance of preparation, scouting, and adapting to changing conditions. The conversation highlights the ongoing learning process that comes with hunting and the significance of sharing experiences with others in the hunting community.

Takeaways

Hunting preparation is an ongoing process that requires constant adaptation.
Understanding food sources is crucial for successful hunting.
Time management is essential for balancing family and hunting trips.
Scouting and mapping are key components of effective hunting strategies.
Gear preferences can significantly impact hunting success and comfort.
The emotional connection to gear can influence hunting experiences.
Small game hunting offers a refreshing change from deer hunting.
Archery techniques should be practiced regularly to maintain proficiency.
Tinkering with gear and strategies can lead to improved results.
Sharing stories and experiences with other hunters enhances learning.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Hunting Preparation
02:49 Understanding Food Sources and Their Impact
05:38 Adapting Strategies for Hunting Success
08:35 The Challenges of Hunting in Different Environments
11:27 The Importance of Planning and Timing
14:28 Scouting and Mapping for Better Outcomes
17:14 Learning from Past Seasons
19:54 Navigating Seasonal Changes in Hunting
22:37 Flexibility in Hunting Approaches
25:09 The Essence of Committed Hunting
26:31 Gear and Techniques for Effective Hunting
28:38 Comfort and Accuracy in Hunting Positions
31:58 The Balance of Gear and Comfort
33:20 Exploring Bear Hunting and Ethical Considerations
35:54 The Primal Instincts of Hunting
38:44 The Joy of Small Game Hunting
40:32 The Active Process of Awareness in Hunting
43:04 Hunting with Friends: A Social Experience
44:20 The Year-Round Pursuit of Archery
48:04 The Emotional Connection to Gear
51:13 The Emotional Connection to Bows
54:55 Gear Preferences and Hunting Strategies
01:00:27 Hunting Preparation and Techniques
01:09:45 Lessons Learned and Future Hunting Plans

Summary

In this conversation, Brad Salon and Matt Corradino delve into the concept of the scout mentality, emphasizing its importance in training and personal growth. They discuss the balance between physical skills and mental resilience, the role of ego in self-perception, and the significance of realistic standards and incremental goals. The dialogue also touches on the transformative experiences that come from scout training, highlighting the need for a mindset focused on community and service rather than individual ego.

Summary

In this conversation, Brad Salon and Matt Corradino discuss the intricacies of scout skills and the differences in their respective scout classes. They explore the importance of class size, group dynamics, and the challenges of teaching and learning in a scout context. The discussion also touches on the ethical considerations of teaching survival skills, the prerequisites for classes, and the debate over the effectiveness of various teaching methods. Ultimately, they emphasize the significance of teamwork and awareness in survival situations, while also reflecting on their personal experiences in training. In this conversation, Brad Salon and Matt Corradino explore the themes of intuition, awareness, and the scout mindset. They discuss the importance of trusting one's instincts in survival situations, the role of awareness in avoiding threats, and the significance of accountability in group dynamics. The dialogue also delves into the differences between ancient and modern approaches to scouting and survival skills, emphasizing the value of experiential learning and the need for a clear understanding of objectives and intent in decision-making processes.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Scout Skills
00:53 Comparing Scout Classes
03:33 The Value of Class Size and Structure
07:13 Team Dynamics in Training
09:41 Challenges of Mixed Skill Levels
12:49 The Importance of Mindset
15:08 Ethics in Teaching Scout Skills
17:18 Integrating Survival Skills with Scout Skills
19:19 The Role of Prerequisites in Training
23:01 Mastery vs. Basic Skills
25:52 Debating Tracking Techniques
26:31 Understanding the Purpose of Scout Classes
35:07 The Role of Intuition in Tracking
43:25 The Balance of Skill and Awareness in Survival
53:25 Managing Student Experience in Scout Classes
54:25 Navigating Group Dynamics and Accountability
56:17 The Scout Mindset: Protector and Provider
58:56 The Importance of Prerequisites in Training
01:00:00 Physical Skills vs. Mental Preparedness
01:03:19 Understanding Predator and Prey Dynamics
01:05:52 The Role of Intent in Decision Making
01:09:14 The Scout's Perspective: Awareness and Adaptability
01:11:36 Ancient Context vs. Modern Application
01:16:14 The Value of Implicit Learning
01:20:24 Finding Meaning in Training Experiences
01:31:39 The Peak Experience and Community in Training

In this episode of the Skillist Podcast, hosts Matt Corradino and Brad Salon delve into the fascinating world of bird language and its complexities. They explore the lifelong journey of understanding bird calls, the significance of behavioral context, and the reliability of bird language in real-life situations. Through personal experiences and insights, they discuss the importance of keen observation and the connection between humans and nature, emphasizing that mastering bird language requires both concentrated study and a deep appreciation for the natural world. In this conversation, the speakers explore themes of fatherhood, nature observation, and the intricacies of bird language. They discuss personal transformations, the importance of patience and curiosity in understanding animal behavior, and the value of mapping territories to enhance awareness of the natural world. The dialogue emphasizes the need for experiential learning and the fluidity of nature, encouraging listeners to engage deeply with their surroundings.


Takeaways

Bird language is a lifelong study that combines analytical and intuitive skills.
Understanding bird calls requires both observation and experience.
Birds have different alarm calls for various threats, which can be difficult to confirm.
The reliability of bird language varies, but it can provide useful information in real situations.
Human interactions can often be confirmed through bird behavior.
Distinguishing between alarm calls and other calls is crucial for understanding bird behavior.
Behavioral context is key to interpreting bird calls accurately.
The five voices of birds help categorize their communication.
Concentrated study and awareness are necessary for mastering bird language.
A deeper connection with nature enhances our understanding of wildlife. Fatherhood brings a new perspective on life.
Observing nature can reveal unexpected behaviors.
Birds react differently based on their environment.
Patience is key in understanding animal behavior.
Imitating bird calls enhances learning and awareness.
Mapping territories helps in recognizing bird patterns.
Curiosity drives deeper understanding of nature.
Bird language is fluid and requires open observation.
Personal growth is intertwined with nature experiences.
Nature observation fosters a connection to the environment.

Chapters
00:00
Introduction to Bird Language and Lifelong Learning
03:11
Understanding Bird Calls and Their Contexts
06:07
The Reliability of Bird Language in Real Situations
09:06
Experiences with Bird Language and Human Interactions
12:11
Distinguishing Alarm Calls from Other Calls
15:08
The Role of Behavior in Bird Language
17:53
The Five Voices of Birds and Their Significance
20:49
The Challenge of Recognizing Calls
23:52
The Importance of Context in Bird Behavior
26:47
The Need for Concentrated Study and Awareness
29:54
The Connection Between Humans and Nature
32:59
Final Thoughts on Bird Language and Awareness
39:41
The Transformation of Fatherhood
40:02
Observations of Nature: Cats and Birds
42:39
Understanding Bird Language Through Experience
44:30
The Importance of Patience in Nature Observation
47:29
Learning Through Imitation: Bird Calls and Behavior
51:30
The Role of Environment in Bird Behavior
54:55
Mapping and Understanding Bird Territories
01:01:23
The Value of Curiosity in Nature
01:05:46
The Fluidity of Bird Language and Behavior
01:10:41
Reflections on Nature and Personal Growth

In this episode of the Skillist Podcast, hosts Matt Corradino and Brad Salon delve into the fascinating world of sign tracking in wildlife observation. They discuss the importance of recognizing signs left by animals, such as scat, feeding signs, and other disturbances, which provide valuable insights into animal behavior and presence in an area. The conversation emphasizes the often-overlooked practice of sign tracking compared to traditional track identification, highlighting its practical applications in hunting, trapping, and survival skills. The hosts also explore the dynamic relationship between tracks and signs, the learning process involved in identifying these signs, and the significance of understanding animal behavior in the context of tracking. They conclude with reflections on the broader implications of tracking in nature and the joy of uncovering the mysteries of wildlife. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of sign tracking in wildlife, particularly focusing on beavers and their unique signs. They discuss various techniques for learning sign tracking, the challenges posed by different environments, and the importance of direct observation. The conversation also touches on the awareness of animals regarding their own tracks and those of others, as well as the often-overlooked world of human sign tracking. The speakers share personal anecdotes and insights from their experiences in nature education and tracking, culminating in a discussion about upcoming classes and skills development.
Chapters
00:00
Introduction to Sign Tracking
04:50
Understanding the Importance of Sign Tracking
09:58
Distinguishing Between Tracks and Signs
14:49
Learning to Identify Signs in Nature
19:51
The Role of Sign Tracking in Wildlife Observation
24:52
Practical Applications of Sign Tracking
29:54
Exploring Underwater Tracking
34:59
Conclusion and Reflections on Tracking
35:29
Learning Sign Tracking Techniques
37:40
The Challenge of Tracking in Unique Environments
39:30
Understanding Animal Behavior Through Sign
42:02
The World of Human Sign Tracking
45:59
Counter Tracking Strategies
48:20
Upcoming Classes and Skills Development

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

Part Three

In Part Three we see how Matt, Carmen, and the island are recovering from the storm, make a huge tropical feast from foraged food prepared with primitive style cooking methods, and learn how survival skills and experiences can shape our minds.

The WildLife is a passion project Sarah and I are doing completely on our own, please share the video if you like what you see. As I get better at film making, the episodes will get better too! We are trying to decide where, who, and what to cover next.

https://www.bearnotchproductions.com/
https://www.mtvictorycamp.com/
https://www.caribbeanearthskills.com/
https://rootsvt.com

Part One
https://youtu.be/2hB7eDukHx0
In this Part One Sarah and Brad escape Vermont to St Croix USVI where Matt and Carmen Corridino run Caribbean Earth Skills at Mount Victory Camp. In Part 1 we meet Matt and Carmen, get to know the island, forage for almonds and sweet limes and learn about Caribbean Earth Skills.

Part Two
https://youtu.be/21HTcv5D4Hk
In Part Two we learn about the impacts of Hurricane Maria, travel into the bush to an abandoned mansion hunting for fruit, track down mature coconuts that made it through the storm, and visit the remote area Matt and Carmen lead their survival trips.

In Part Two we learn about the impacts of Hurricane Maria, travel into the bush to an abandoned mansion hunting for fruit, track down mature coconuts that made it through the storm, and visit the remote area Matt and Carmen lead their survival trips.

The WildLife is a passion project Sarah and I are doing completely on our own, please share the video if you like what you see. As I get better at film making, the episodes will get better too! We are trying to decide where, who, and what to cover next.

https://www.bearnotchproductions.com/
https://www.mtvictorycamp.com/
https://www.caribbeanearthskills.com/
https://rootsvt.com

Part One
https://youtu.be/2hB7eDukHx0
In this Part One Sarah and Brad escape Vermont to St Croix USVI where Matt and Carmen Corridino run Caribbean Earth Skills at Mount Victory Camp. In Part 1 we meet Matt and Carmen, get to know the island, forage for almonds and sweet limes and learn about Caribbean Earth Skills.

Part Three

In Part Three we see how Matt, Carmen, and the island are recovering from the storm, make a huge tropical feast from foraged food prepared with primitive style cooking methods, and learn how survival skills and experiences can shape our minds.

In this episode Sarah and Brad escape Vermont to St Croix USVI where Matt and Carmen Corridino run Caribbean Earth Skills at Mount Victory Camp. In Part 1 we meet Matt and Carmen, get to know the island, forage for almonds and sweet limes and learn about Caribbean Earth Skills.

The WildLife is a passion project Sarah and I are doing completely on our own, please share the video if you like what you see. As I get better at film making, the episodes will get better too! We are trying to decide where, who, and what to cover next.

https://www.bearnotchproductions.com/
https://www.mtvictorycamp.com/
https://www.caribbeanearthskills.com/
https://rootsvt.com

Part Two
https://youtu.be/21HTcv5D4Hk

In Part Two we learn about the impacts of Hurricane Maria, travel into the bush to an abandoned mansion hunting for fruit, track down mature coconuts that made it through the storm, and visit the remote area Matt and Carmen lead their survival trips.

Part Three
https://youtu.be/2pC27FWevWo

In Part Three we see how Matt, Carmen, and the island are recovering from the storm, make a huge tropical feast from foraged food prepared with primitive style cooking methods, and learn how survival skills and experiences can shape our minds.