Skillist

Brad Salon and Matt Corradino

Two experienced wilderness skills practitioners and instructors pick fights and talk shop on topics from long term wilderness living skills and ancient technologies to modern survival skills. Occasional guests will spice things up. With Brad Salon of Roots School in Vermont and Matt Corradino of Caribbean Earth Skills in St Croix.

  1. JUN 17

    EP 25 Bird Language and Awareness Skillist Podcast

    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. Chapters00:00Introduction to Bird Language and Lifelong Learning03:11Understanding Bird Calls and Their Contexts06:07The Reliability of Bird Language in Real Situations09:06Experiences with Bird Language and Human Interactions12:11Distinguishing Alarm Calls from Other Calls15:08The Role of Behavior in Bird Language17:53The Five Voices of Birds and Their Significance20:49The Challenge of Recognizing Calls23:52The Importance of Context in Bird Behavior26:47The Need for Concentrated Study and Awareness29:54The Connection Between Humans and Nature32:59Final Thoughts on Bird Language and Awareness39:41The Transformation of Fatherhood40:02Observations of Nature: Cats and Birds42:39Understanding Bird Language Through Experience44:30The Importance of Patience in Nature Observation47:29Learning Through Imitation: Bird Calls and Behavior51:30The Role of Environment in Bird Behavior54:55Mapping and Understanding Bird Territories01:01:23The Value of Curiosity in Nature01:05:46The Fluidity of Bird Language and Behavior01:10:41Reflections on Nature and Personal Growth

    1h 13m
  2. JUN 3

    Sign Tracking Skillist Podcast EP 24

    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.Chapters00:00Introduction to Sign Tracking04:50Understanding the Importance of Sign Tracking09:58Distinguishing Between Tracks and Signs14:49Learning to Identify Signs in Nature19:51The Role of Sign Tracking in Wildlife Observation24:52Practical Applications of Sign Tracking29:54Exploring Underwater Tracking34:59Conclusion and Reflections on Tracking35:29Learning Sign Tracking Techniques37:40The Challenge of Tracking in Unique Environments39:30Understanding Animal Behavior Through Sign42:02The World of Human Sign Tracking45:59Counter Tracking Strategies48:20Upcoming Classes and Skills Development

    54 min
  3. MAY 20

    Skillist Podcast EP 21 Awareness (Situational & Sensory Awareness for Wilderness Survival and Life)

    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. 00:00Introduction to Awareness02:48The Challenge of Modern Distractions05:49Cultural Influences on Awareness08:55The Impact of Technology on Attention11:45The Power of Choice in Awareness15:08Perceptual Spackling and Brain Patterns17:55Ruts in Awareness and Movement21:07Training Awareness Through Scanning23:55Mindfulness vs. Mindlessness27:09Engaging the Senses for Awareness30:01Creative Techniques for Enhancing Awareness32:49The Role of Movement in Awareness35:58Flow State and Awareness38:53Conclusion and Final Thoughts47:58Understanding Awareness in Nature52:31The Impact of Environment on Awareness56:29The Role of Fear and Threat in Awareness01:01:01Sensing Presence and Intuition01:09:15The Relationship Between Awareness and Emotion01:15:01Detachment and Attachment in Awareness01:20:01The Importance of Questions in Awareness

    1h 29m

About

Two experienced wilderness skills practitioners and instructors pick fights and talk shop on topics from long term wilderness living skills and ancient technologies to modern survival skills. Occasional guests will spice things up. With Brad Salon of Roots School in Vermont and Matt Corradino of Caribbean Earth Skills in St Croix.