About Us
Our Story
Old School Survival began as a passion project to connect with, share, and teach self-reliance throughout America in 2020. Bobby and Tara Dodrill strove to create both an annual hands-on training event and an online space for like-minded folks to gather and inspire each other while being engaged in interactive homesteading and survival skill building classes. The couple along with a team of nearly 70 top bushcraft, survival, homesteading, and homeschooling experts from around the United States, now host the largest hands-on survival and homesteading gathering in the country and boast online learners from around the globe.
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Tara Dodrill
Survival and homesteading expert with over 15 years of journalism experience, author of 10 self-reliance books.
Co-owner and operator of the Old School Survival Boot Camp, the largest hands-on event in the US for survival, homesteading, and self-reliance enthusiasts.
Creator of the Homestead Heritage Explorers homeschool curriculum, a comprehensive learning resource for young survivalists and homesteaders.
Experience
Tara Dodrill's journey in the survival and homesteading world is rooted in her passion for self-reliance. She has been a survival and homesteading journalist for nearly 15 years, providing valuable insights through platforms like the Survival Blog, Homesteading.com, and her publication, the Old School Survival Magazine. Her 57-acre survival homestead in Appalachia stands testament to her dedication to the self-reliant lifestyle. Beyond her writings, she's an avid herbalist, empowering many through her workshops to harness the healing power of nature. She's a regular guest on renowned survival podcasts, sharing her expertise and experiences, and has been notably inspired by interactions with industry legends like Dr. William Forstchen.
Education
Tara earned her background in journalism from Ohio University. This formal education, combined with her hands-on experience in the world of survival and homesteading, makes her a trusted voice in the self-reliance community. Her educator role further underlines her commitment to hands-on learning, equipping many to lead a life connected with nature and self-sufficiency.
In essence, Tara Dodrill is not just a voice in the survival and homesteading community, but a pivotal force driving its growth and promoting the beauty of self-reliant living.
Bobby Dodrill
Bobby Dodrill is the co-owner and operator of Old School. Survival Boot Camp. Prior to becoming a semi-retired small business owner who enjoys spending his free time on a tractor in a field on his survival homestead, he had a long history of community service.
Dodrill is a retired McAthur Volunteer Fire Department Captain, a former village councilman, and previous mayor. He has been a member of a civilian volunteer militia, Free Mason, Shepherds's House Domestic Violence board member, founding member of the Vinton County Kiwanis club and past president.
Bobby is "go to" behind the scenes guru at Old School Survival Boot Camp events. He maps out all of the event tent and learning spaces, makes sure electricity, water access, overhead projectors, and fire pits are ready to go when needed to teach classes, creates the event schedule and maps the event. Without Bobby, the trains surely would not be running on time!
Our Partners
Old School Survival Responsibilities, Principles, and Ethics
Expert Instructors
Our Responsibility
At SafeBlackout, our editorial integrity is paramount. We’re committed to providing unbiased, evidence-based content that’s reviewed by practiced professionals in the field.
Flexible Formats
We offer a variety of flexible formats to fit your busy schedule, including online courses, on-demand modules, and in-person workshops. You can choose the format that works best for you and your learning style.
Career-Focused Courses
Our professional development programs are designed with your career goals in mind. We offer courses in a variety of fields, including business, technology, healthcare, and more. Whether you're looking to advance in your current job or start a new career, we have the courses and resources to help you succeed.
Affordable Pricing
We believe that high-quality professional development should be accessible to everyone. That's why we offer competitive pricing and flexible payment options to help you achieve your career goals.
Interactive Learning
Our professional development programs are designed to be engaging and interactive. You'll have the opportunity to connect with your instructors and classmates, participate in discussions, and collaborate on projects.
Personalized Support
We're committed to your success. That's why we offer personalized support and guidance throughout your professional development journey. Whether you need help with coursework or career planning, we're here to help.