• Reuniting with My Mother After 7 Years Off Grid | Breaking the Grid Episode 5
    Nov 20 2023

    In this heartfelt fifth episode of "Breaking the Grid," we have a very special guest Dan's mother, Barbara Seiden. This special episode offers a unique glimpse into the complexities of family relationships and the impact of Dan's decision to leave society behind. We shed light on Barbara's thoughts, feelings, and experiences when Dan cut off all communication for seven years. She shares some of the challenges she faced, navigating her desire to support her son while grappling with the uncertainty and longing to maintain a relationship. Most importantly, we explore the powerful reunion between Barbara and Dan, as his journey brings them closer together. Join us for this moving episode as we unravel the complex dynamics of family bonds, resilience, and reunion in the face of an unconventional lifestyle. Tune in to "Breaking the Grid" and gain a deeper appreciation for the human connections that transcend boundaries, even in the realm of self-sufficiency.

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    1 hr and 14 mins
  • Preparing for Off-Grid Living Part 2: Research, Transition, and Exploring Alternatives - Breaking the Grid Ep. 4
    Jul 14 2023

    Welcome back to Breaking the Grid, the podcast where we talk about off grid living, self-sufficiency, and life without society. On this episode, we continue our comprehensive guide to preparing for a life off the grid. Join us as we discuss aspects of research, making a healthy transition, and exploring alternative options for those curious about off-grid living. Thorough research is absolutely important as we explore various topics, such as looking into different types of terrains and sustainable energy sources . We provide valuable insights on how to acquire the knowledge necessary for a successful off-grid lifestyle. Transitioning away from society in a healthy and sustainable manner is also a vital process. Learn practical tips, advice, and strategies for effectively navigating the emotional, social, and logistical aspects of leaving behind a conventional lifestyle. And if you're not ready to fully commit to off-grid living, we explore alternative options to gradually dip your feet into the world of self-sufficiency, from participating in community projects to exploring eco-villages or intentional communities. Join us for this informative episode as we equip you with the necessary tools, resources, and insights to embark on your own off-grid journey or explore alternative sustainable living options. Tune in to "Breaking the Grid" and unlock the knowledge to shape your path towards a more self-sufficient and fulfilling life.

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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • Preparing for Off-Grid Living Part 1: Skills, Mindset, and Finances | Breaking the Grid Ep. 3
    Jul 8 2023
    Welcome back to Breaking the Grid, the podcast where we talk about off grid living, self-sufficiency, and life without society. This two-part episode offers an extensive guide to the preparation stage, a crucial part for a life off the grid. Join us as we explore the comprehensive process of acquiring the necessary skills, cultivating a resilient mindset, and breaking down the upfront costs required to establish an off-grid homestead. Drawing from the final chapter in Dan's book, we unravel his experiences, successes, and mistakes in leaving society behind. Dan guides us through the most efficient and budget-friendly ways to embark on this adventure. Whether you're dreaming of a self-sufficient life or simply curious about the intricacies of off-grid living, these episodes provide an invaluable resource. Tune in to "Breaking the Grid" and gain a comprehensive understanding of the preparation process, empowering yourself with the knowledge needed to navigate this unique path to self-sufficiency.
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    1 hr and 16 mins
  • Thriving in the Desert: Dan's Off Grid Journey in West Texas
    Jun 30 2023

    Welcome back to Breaking the Grid, the podcast where we talk about all things off-grid living, self-sufficiency, and a life without society. In our second episode, we delve into the fascinating and challenging life that Dan and his ex-wife led in the harsh deserts of West Texas. Drawing from his captivating book, "Breaking the Grid: How to Buy Nothing, Make Everything, and Live Sustainably", we explore their journey of establishing a self-sufficient existence from scratch. We uncover the details of their off-grid lifestyle, from their unique dwelling to their methods of sourcing food, water, and shelter. Learn about the labor-intensive process of crafting their own necessities, including household items and even medicine. Discover the hardships they faced during the initial stages and how they gradually built sustainable systems that eased their way of life, albeit far from the comforts of society. The episode mirrors the format of Dan's book, allowing listeners to delve deep into his experiences and gain valuable insights into self-sufficiency.

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    53 mins
  • The Trailblazer's Path: Surviving Detroit, Joining the Navy, Working for NASA, and Leaving Society - Breaking the Grid Ep. 1
    Jun 20 2023

    Welcome to Breaking the Grid, the podcast where we talk about off grid living, self-sufficiency, and a life without society!In our first episode of "Breaking the Grid," join us, your hosts, Julia and Dan, as we embark on an extraordinary journey towards self-sufficiency. Julia, whose life took a turn during the pandemic, found herself yearning for a more self-reliant lifestyle. In her quest, she encounters Dan, a captivating figure with an incredibly diverse background. Growing up amidst the challenges of Detroit, mastering survival skills in the mountains of Utah, working with prestigious organizations like NASA and Boeing, and eventually living off the grid in isolation for seven years, Dan's story is nothing short of captivating. Tune in as we share our experiences, from the trials and triumphs of self-sufficiency to the profound impact it has had on our lives. This opening episode sets the stage for a captivating exploration of our journeys and offers valuable insights into forging a path less traveled. Don't miss this compelling introduction to "Breaking the Grid"!

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    1 hr and 25 mins