Hi, I’m Anne!
I am deeply passionate about preserving and teaching life skills that are becoming increasingly rare in our modern world. As a farmer, builder, and educator, I’m dedicated to guiding you towards a simpler, more grounded life, starting right where you are, with the resources you already possess. If you’re looking for Trades To Learn, you’ve come to the right place.
Many of us harbor dreams of a more hands-on existence, but feel lost about where to begin. We get caught in cycles of feeling too busy, lacking resources, or fearing failure. We often wait for an elusive “perfect moment” to start pursuing our passions, and in that waiting period, life slips away.
But the truth is, you don’t need to wait for ideal tools, perfect setups, or exhaustive knowledge to embark on learning the trades that ignite your soul. I’m here to show you how to leverage what you have right now to take that crucial first step. Time is precious, and life is short. I can help you carve out time for what truly matters – learning valuable trades and skills.
My mission is to empower you with new capabilities that will not only make you an invaluable asset to your family and friends but also help you cultivate strong roots within your community. Learning trades is not just about acquiring skills; it’s about building resilience, fostering self-sufficiency, and connecting with a deeper sense of purpose.
Eight years ago, with limited prior experience in farming or construction, I embarked on a journey to become more self-reliant and engaged in every facet of my life. I transitioned away from the tech industry, left the city behind, and established a farm. I want to inspire others to join this movement. My husband Adam and I are based in Nashville, TN, where I currently manage a farm raising dairy cows and beef cattle, produce eggs, and craft heirloom-quality furniture. I also travel across the country, teaching a diverse range of skills, from regenerative farming techniques to woodworking, building sustainable small businesses, and even growing an online presence. Currently, I am developing the School of All Trades, a craft school dedicated to teaching these invaluable, often disappearing, life skills both through in-person workshops and online courses.
While I don’t consider myself an ultimate expert in any single trade, I’ve discovered that with a willingness to embrace failure and seek guidance from others, almost anything – from complex woodworking projects to mastering cheesemaking, cultivating a thriving garden, or even repairing vintage tractors – becomes “Figureoutable.” Learning trades is a journey of continuous discovery, and I am here to guide you on that path.
Learning trades offers a multitude of benefits in today’s rapidly changing world. Firstly, acquiring practical skills empowers you with self-reliance. In an era of increasing dependence on complex systems, knowing how to fix things, grow your own food, or build essential items provides a sense of security and independence. These skills are not just hobbies; they are pathways to greater autonomy and resilience.
Moreover, mastering a trade can open doors to diverse career opportunities. While some traditional trades might be perceived as disappearing, skilled tradespeople are consistently in demand. From carpentry and plumbing to electrical work and farming, these professions offer stable and rewarding career paths. In a job market often dominated by digital skills, trades offer tangible, hands-on work that is both fulfilling and economically viable.
Beyond the practical and economic advantages, learning trades provides immense personal fulfillment. There is a deep satisfaction in creating something with your own hands, whether it’s a piece of furniture, a bountiful garden, or a repaired machine. This tangible accomplishment fosters a sense of pride and boosts self-esteem. Engaging in trades connects you to a rich history of craftsmanship and human ingenuity.
Furthermore, learning and practicing trades can strengthen your community connections. Sharing skills, collaborating on projects, and offering your expertise to others builds stronger social bonds and contributes to a more resilient and interconnected community. Trades often involve collaboration and knowledge sharing, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support.
Trades to learn are diverse and cater to a wide range of interests. Consider exploring homesteading skills such as gardening, animal husbandry, food preservation, and basic carpentry for self-sufficiency. Craft trades like woodworking, leatherworking, pottery, and metalworking offer creative outlets and opportunities to produce unique, handcrafted items. Building and mechanical trades such as carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, and small engine repair are essential for maintaining homes and infrastructure. Even digital trades related to online business building and content creation are valuable in today’s economy.
Don’t wait for the “perfect time” to start learning trades. Begin today by exploring resources like my blog and YouTube channel for inspiration and practical guidance. Visit the School of All Trades to discover workshops and courses that can help you delve deeper into specific skills. Embrace the journey of learning, and unlock your potential by mastering essential trades for a more fulfilling and self-reliant life. Start learning trades today and build the life you’ve always dreamed of!
