1KHO 524: Durable Trades in a Brittle World | Rory Groves, The Family Economy

Jul 14, 2025

Rory Groves, the author of Durable Trades and The Family Economy, transitioned from software engineering to farming, advocating for a family-centered approach to work. He discusses how modern jobs often fracture family bonds and stresses the importance of durable trades that offer stability. Rory shares insights on the evolving dynamics of family life in a post-Industrial world, the significance of integrating children into family businesses, and practical steps for fostering resilience through hands-on experiences. His journey started with a single tomato plant, leading to renewed connections and purpose.

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ANECDOTE

Engineer Turned Farmer's Journey

Rory Groves left a career in computer engineering to become a farmer and learn simple living.
This shift inspired his research and writing on family economy and durable trades.

INSIGHT

Families as Mini Enterprises

Historically, families functioned as mini enterprises working together to survive and produce what they needed.
Modern work often isolates family members, breaking down unity and shared purpose.

INSIGHT

Family Economy vs Family Business

A family economy organizes work around family members' gifts rather than profit.
It builds relationships and strengthens family unity over pure business success.

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What happens when the work we do no longer serves our families—but separates them? In this thought-provoking and deeply resonant episode, Ginny Yurich sits down with Rory Groves, author of Durable Trades and The Family Economy, to uncover why modern life feels so unstable—and what we can do about it. From brittle supply chains to generational fragmentation, Rory exposes how the very systems we were told to rely on are now cracking under pressure. But there is another way. One that’s slower, older, and surprisingly resilient: the family economy.

Whether you're a parent, homeschooler, or simply someone who senses something is off, this conversation will reframe how you think about work, legacy, education, and security. Rory shares how starting with a single tomato plant led him to a life of greater connection and purpose—and how you can begin reclaiming stability right where you are. This is one of the most important episodes we’ve ever recorded.
→ Learn more at https://thegrovestead.com
→ Explore events at https://gatherandgrow.us
→ Get the books: Durable Trades and The Family Economy

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