The Practice People

E4S1 Why Mistakes Are Just Shorter Pieces of Wood: A Conversation on Loss and a Full Life with Entrepreneur & Surfer Dean Petty

Dean Petty’s philosophy of riding life in the direction it’s going serves as the core of his conversation on the podcast. With insights drawn from his father’s wisdom and his own experiences, Dean delves into his passion for surfing and building, particularly the iconic ‘Bueno Barn’ he constructed on his oceanfront property in Cow Bay, Nova Scotia. The conversation sheds light on Dean’s values of craftsmanship, the role of mistakes in learning, and the therapeutic impact of manual labor. His dedication to creating with purpose and finding joy in every piece of the process speaks to a broader ethos of living authentically.

Wednesdays with Wendell - Episode 2 - Poem 1 from A Timbered Choir

Hey! It is our second week of Wednesdays with Wendell. Sorry about the sound quality!

E3S1 Unlocking Midlife: The Power of Curiosity and Self-Inquiry with Peter Reek

Peter Reek joins the Practice People podcast to discuss his approach to midlife transition, drawing from his book 'Shift: Seven Mindsets for an Inspired Midlife.' He emphasizes the significance of mindsets and the role of inquisitive questioning in fostering personal growth. By drawing from his life experiences and coaching practices, Peter illustrates how embracing curiosity and intention can yield profound changes without needing a complete life overhaul. Listeners are invited to explore questions that bring them closer to their true selves, celebrating progress in small steps – from walking, to journaling, to self-inquiry  – and thus transforming their midlife journey. Peter leaves us with this question to ask ourselves and consider...If I was willing to let go of X, X could be waiting for me.

Wednesdays with Wendell - Episode 1 - Manifesto: The Mad Farmer Liberation Front

In the inaugural episode of 'Wednesdays with Wendell,' I begin our journey of sharing the wisdom of poet, authour, and farmer Wendell Berry. The episode features a reading of Berry's popular poem, 'Manifesto: The Mad Farmer Liberation Front,' emphasizing the need for people to find wisdom in nature and question societal norms.  I have always loved the way this poem encourages us to embrace actions that defy conventional logic, to love unconditionally, and value the seemingly unimportant.  So, in the pursuit of peace let's make more tracks than necessary. Some in the wrong direction. Be well!

Taking the Long Way to Change: Anna Hunter on Farming, Activism, and Hope

Anna Hunter has long been someone I hold deep respect for. She is an authour, farmer, mother, spouse, and community activist. Based in Manitoba, Anna and her family are knitting an inspiring and challenging story. Their farm, Long Way Homestead serves not only as a farm but as a platform for education and change. Through her personal journey from climate activist to a first-generation sheep farmer, Anna connects us with the origins of wool. She addresses crucial topics such as economics, climate change, and colonization, using her farm and writing to engage a wider audience. By drawing parallels between textiles and environmental sustainability, she inspires a reevaluation of our consumption habits, advocating for wool as a key player in building a more regenerative future.