This interview of Andy Mahler took place on July 21, 2025 and is the last conversation I had with Andy before he died.

Having already spoken about Andy's childhood, the creation of Heartwood, and Andy's efforts to stop the Buffalo Springs project on the Hoosier National Forest in previous interviews, this conversation is of a more personal nature. I wanted to give Andy the space to talk about his cancer diagnosis directly, and to talk about whatever he felt was important to talk about.

In this conversation Andy talks about his love of playing music with close friends, a nightmarish visit to the hospital, and his philosophy on the nature of consciousness. At the end of our conversation, Andy asks for people to send support by sending mail, and although Andy is no longer with us, if you would like to send something to his wife Linda Lee, she would greatly appreciate it. Please send your correspondence to Linda c/o the Lost River Co-op and Cafe, 26 Library St. Paoli, IN 47454.

Listen to Andy's own original music played with Buffalo Strings at Andy Mahler, Buffalo Strings.

Want to donate to Heartwood? Donate here.

To purchase a copy of Andy Mahler's Autobiography by Steven Higgs, go here: Andy Mahler and the Hoosier National; The Folk Hero and the Forest He Loves.

Photo credit of Andy reclining in his yard: Joshua Martin