The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast 1KHO 678: The World is Hungry for Authentic Experiences | Isaac French, Live Oak Lake
Jan 13, 2026
Isaac French, an artist-builder and entrepreneur, shares his unique perspective on hospitality and outdoor living. He reflects on his screen-free upbringing in a tight-knit community and how it shaped his creativity and connection to nature. Isaac discusses transforming a derelict train car into a captivating stay and building the nature-focused Live Oak Lake resort. He emphasizes the importance of experiential hospitality and fostering deep relationships through shared experiences, all while placing nature at the forefront of design.
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Childhood Shapes Entrepreneurial Capacity
- Growing up in a tech-limited, land-rooted community produced deep skills, responsibility, and creativity in Isaac French and his siblings.
- Those formative conditions translated into entrepreneurial success, craftsmanship, and strong family businesses.
Make Nature The Main Amenity
- Make nature the primary amenity when designing stays or outdoor spaces to maximize wellness and meaning for guests.
- Start small: design a backyard spot with trees, water, and stone to echo nature's art before scaling up.
Use Limits To Grow Character
- Use constraints and intentional limits (on tech and privileges) to cultivate character and creativity in children.
- Apply consistent pruning—like parenting boundaries—to produce healthier long-term growth.
