Free Cities Podcast 107 - Patrick Hiebert: Building Off-grid Libertarian Villages in Latin America
Libertarian Communities, Bitcoin, Sovereignty, Latin America, Off-Grid Living, Renewable Energy, Community Development, Freedom, Self-Sustainability, EcoVillages.
Timothy Allen talks with Patrick Hiebert
In this episode, Patrick Hebert, a Canadian entrepreneur and founder of EcoVillages, shares his journey from the software industry to establishing freedom-oriented communities in Latin America. Patrick discusses his transition from living on a boat with his son to creating self-sustaining luxury communities on land, driven by his philosophy of freedom, independence, resilience, sustainability, and transparency (FIRST).
Patrick explains the evolution of his communities, which cater to like-minded libertarian individuals seeking refuge from government overreach. He delves into the challenges and triumphs of building these communities in Central and South America, emphasizing the importance of energy sovereignty in the communities.
The conversation also highlights the integration of Bitcoin as a mandatory currency within these communities, reflecting Patrick's commitment to financial independence and innovation. He shares insights into the cultural dynamics of Latin America, where a shift towards capitalism and a live-and-let-live attitude provides fertile ground for his projects.
Enjoy the conversation.
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TIMESTAMPS:
(00:30) Introduction to episode
(06:55) Introduction to Patrick Hiebert (12:56) How much sovereignty do your projects aspire to? (15:03) Do you aspire to discuss sovereignty with governments? (24:16) Is Bitcoin mandatory at your communities? (30:12) Latin America vs the IMF (33:18) Negotiating special status for communities (38:50) Online voting at communities (42:07) Making communities self-sufficient in energy (45:28) What do you do with excess energy? (47:24) How are relations with the local communities? (52:07) How to protect communities from the state (59:24) What was your background in sailing? (01:01:26) Where did the idea for the communities come from? (01:02:57) Where did you travel on your big boating trip? (01:04:42) Seasteading and self-gove…