Welcome to the Observatory Podcast with your hosts, Scott and LaRae Wright. In this episode, we dive into the captivating world of primitive skills and the extraordinary experiences shared by our guest, Dave Wescott. Join us as we explore the origins of the Rabbit Stick gathering, its profound impact, and the enchanting journey of friendship and exploration with David Holladay. Prepare for an inspiring conversation that ignites your passion for nature, traditional skills, and human connection.

Episode Summary In this episode of the Observatory Podcast, we embark on a fascinating journey through primitive skills and the incredible bond between our guest, Dave Wescott, and David Holladay. As we delve into their shared experiences, we uncover the origins of the renowned Rabbit Stick gathering and its role in fostering collaboration among skilled individuals. We also explore the enduring legacy of Larry Dean Olson's influential book, "Outdoor Survival Skills," and its impact on our hosts' fascination with primitive skills.

Main Discussion Points: The Birth of Rabbit Stick and the Need for Collaboration

• Discover the origins of Rabbit Stick and its connection to the Boulder Outdoor Survival School.
• Explore the challenges faced by skilled individuals before the internet era.
• Highlight the significance of Rabbit Stick in facilitating learning and teaching primitive skills.

Rabbit Stick: Fostering Principles and Camaraderie

• Dive into the story of Rabbit Stick's evolution, from "rabbit stick rendezvous" to the "wood smoke rendezvous."
• Emphasize the importance of maintaining core principles and camaraderie among instructors.
• Reflect on the loss of original members and the goal of fostering instructor interaction and recognition.

The Beauty and Success of Rabbit Stick

• Explore the picturesque location of Rabbit Stick along the Snake River in Eastern Idaho.
• Appreciate the enchanting setting and its contribution to the gathering's continued success.
• Highlight the admiration for Dave Wescott's dedication to preserving the gathering's essence.

Lessons from David Holladay: Drumming and Shared Interests

• Uncover the deep friendship and shared interests between Dave Wescott and David Holladay.
• Discuss David Holladay's ability to ignite interest in various subjects, particularly drumming.
• Share memorable moments from Rabbit Stick and the profound influence it had on the guest.

Bridging Cultures Through Primitive Skills

• Explore the importance of engaging in conversations with different perspectives and values.
• Emphasize the value of learning from others without conflicts.
• Discuss the significance of Rabbit Stick in preserving and passing down primitive skills.

Notable Quotes

• "He's [David] a muse to me. I think he's a muse to a lot of people. He creates an interest in something, and then you just kind of go for it." Dave, 18:37
• "Those two skills that divide us from everything else on the face of the earth is fire and the cutting edge. And those two things are magical... You have to hold your mouth right. I mean, everything goes into that whole process to make it work. But it's those two things that I think we have a unique connection to just because... it's built into us." Dave, 29:10
• "There is no rush. Take time to slow down, take time to be present with whatever it is that you're doing, do it intentionally, observe it." Scott, 34:17
• "The depth of knowledge is more important to me in an instructor than breadth of knowledge, that they've spent time, that they've invested time, sweat and... and they know what works and what doesn't work from experience." Dave, 41:47

We invite you to reflect on the transformative power of primitive skills, the beauty of shared experiences, and the magic within our connections. Join us next time as we continue to explore living life from the inside out.

www.Rabbitstick.com