Building Sustainability Podcast

Building an Off-Grid Community: Lessons from Abundant Earth - Jo Bolton & Matt Whitaker - BS101

Jun 27, 2023

Join Jo Bolton and Matt Whitaker, co-founders of Abundant Earth, as they share their journey of creating an off-grid community grounded in sustainability. Jo’s experiences range from organic gardening to building oak-framed houses, while Matt navigates the challenges of intentional living. They discuss the significance of communication, conflict resolution, and the transformative impact of community support. Their reflections illuminate the joy of shared experiences and the power of connection in fostering gratitude and a fulfilling communal life.

56:58

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Episode guests

Matt Whitaker

Jo Bolton

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

The journey of building Abundant Earth highlights the significance of intentional living through shared resources and communal tasks for sustainability.

Effective communication and conflict resolution strategies, including Nonviolent Communication, play a crucial role in nurturing relationships within the community.

Deep dives

Embracing Community and Sustainability

The podcast highlights the concept of creating an intentional community focused on sustainability. It explores the experiences of individuals who transitioned from traditional living to cohabiting in a rural setting, where they engage in organic farming, permaculture, and crafts. By structuring their lives around shared resources and communal tasks, they have fostered a vibrant community that nurtures both personal growth and environmental stewardship. This transformation underscores how such communities can provide a more sustainable alternative to conventional lifestyles.

Intro

2min

Building Intentional Communities

10min

Building an Off-Grid Community

20min

Evolving Communication and Conflict Resolution in Off-Grid Living

4min

Navigating Conflict and Communication in Community Dynamics

3min

Building Community: Journey to Abundant Earth

18min

Celebrating Community and Sustainable Living

4min

Ever wondered what it's like to create an intentional community from the ground up? Join us for a heartwarming conversation with Jo Bolton and Matt Whitaker, co founders of Abundant Earth, as they share their journey of building a sustainable, off-grid life for themselves and their families. With experiences ranging from living in cabins on the outskirts of Newcastle to navigating the planning permission process, Matt and Joe have come a long way, and their story is sure to inspire and uplift anyone interested in intentional living.

In this episode, we discuss the importance of communication, conflict resolution, and the power of friendship in community building. Jo and Matt share insights into the systems they've put in place, such as land management, weekly meetings, and seeking external support for conflict training. Plus, learn how their experiences have led them to work with probation services to help those in need, making a tangible impact on the lives of others.

Finally, we explore the joy and gratitude Jo and Matt have experienced as they reflect on their journey together and their friends' role in establishing the Abundant Earth community. From building oak-framed houses to sharing meals and memories, this conversation is a testament to the power of connection and the beauty of living life with intention. Join us for this uplifting episode and discover the magic of creating a community from scratch.

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