Join Us For Our Second Annual Outdoor Educational Event
FLUENT FRONTIER FELLOWSHIP
April 1-4 2027 | The Refuge | Ayden NC
1380 Lower Field Road Ayden, NC 28513
Experience expert-led classes in homesteading, bushcraft, emergency preparedness, hunting, fishing, and sustainable living.
Presented By:
Presented By:
Three Unforgettable Days Of Hands-On Education, Community, And More.
Class Descriptions
Here’s a preview of the classes you can look forward to at Fluent Frontier Fellowship! Once you’ve secured your event tickets, you’ll receive an exclusive link with instructions to access the full class catalog and sign up for your preferred sessions. Class registration will open closer to March, once the schedule is finalized.
Active Shooter / Assailant Situational Awareness and Triage
Instructor: Jon Bajek | TacMed1 Training Group LLC
Instructor: Jon Bajek | TacMed1 Training Group LLC
Medical triage and emergency awareness are essential for civilians who are often the first to respond during emergencies. Understanding how to quickly assess injuries, prioritize care, and take life-saving actions can make the difference between life and death. With proper training, teachers and staff can confidently manage medical crises, protect students, and support first responders until help arrives. We will also touch on STOP THE BLEED techniques and show you how to make your own tourniquet props to practice on.
Animal and Agricultural Emergency Preparedness Workshop
Instructor: Michelle Bouchey DVM
Instructor: Michelle Bouchey DVM
Learn how to plan, prepare, and respond to emergencies affecting livestock, poultry, and crops. This class covers risk assessment, biosecurity, evacuation plans, and practical strategies to protect your farm and animals during natural disasters, disease outbreaks, or unexpected emergencies. Ideal for farmers, homesteaders, and anyone responsible for animal care or agricultural operations.
Animal Processing - Large Livestock
Instructor: Stacy Carr Hoofard
Instructor: Stacy Carr Hoofard
Description coming soon…
Archery 101: Learn the Bow and Arrow - Kids & Adults
Instructor: Bobby Cox
Instructor: Bobby Cox
Get hands-on experience with traditional and modern bows in this beginner-friendly class. You’ll learn proper stance, aim, and shooting techniques, as well as safety, equipment care, and target practice. Perfect for beginners and anyone looking to sharpen their focus and outdoor skills. We will have a session for adults and a session for children 10+ years of age. Parents must be present the entire time.
Arrow Tag - Kids & Adults
Instructor: The Refuge
Instructor: The Refuge
Experience the thrill of safe, action-packed archery combat with our Arrow Tag Game! Participants will learn basic archery safety, shooting techniques, and strategy as they compete in a fun, team-based game using foam-tipped arrows. Perfect for all ages looking for excitement and friendly competition.
Basketry
Instructor: Wendy Davis
Instructor: Wendy Davis
Learn the traditional craft of basket weaving with Momma Wendy using natural materials harvested right here in Eastern Carolina. Discover how generations before us gathered and transformed local plants into beautiful, functional baskets for everyday use. In this hands-on class, you’ll explore the history, techniques, and practical skills behind this timeless craft while creating a deeper connection to the natural resources around you.
Black Smithing On A Budget
Instructor: Matthew Bray
Instructor: Matthew Bray
This workshop is perfect for anyone curious about blacksmithing but unsure where to start or how much it costs. “Blacksmithing on a Budget” teaches the fundamentals of forging using simple, affordable tools and materials most beginners can find locally—or even repurpose from what they already have.
Participants will learn how to set up a safe, functional starter forge, understand essential hand tools, and practice basic techniques such as heating, drawing out metal, and simple shaping. The focus is on practical, real-world skills that anyone can begin applying at home, even with limited equipment or workspace.
Bow Drill: Introduction to Friction Fire Concepts
Instructor: Mountain Scout Survival School
Instructor: Mountain Scout Survival School
Candle Making
Instructor: Marisa Grubbs
Instructor: Marisa Grubbs
Learn how to make your own candles from scratch with Marisa Grubbs. This hands-on class will cover the basics of candle making, including selecting waxes, wicks, fragrances, and containers, while exploring the differences between common candle-making materials. Whether you’re interested in creating candles for your home, gifts, or as part of a more self-reliant lifestyle, you’ll leave with practical knowledge and the confidence to continue crafting quality candles on your own.
Clandestine/Movement class
Instructor: Mountain Scout Survival School
Instructor: Mountain Scout Survival School
“Art of Invisibility” = Camouflage. There are many reasons why the need for the skill would arise. Learn to disappear in any kind of environment. This class goes beyond the camouflage we wear and the mud and clay on our face. We dedicate a full day to the art of invisibility because we have to dedicate a second day to its sister class, The Art of Silence.
Chicken & Other Poultry Processing Workshop: Humane, Farm Education
Instructor: NC State Extension Office
Instructor: NC State Extension Office
Learn the full, humane process of chicken, quail, and other poultry processing in this practical, educational workshop designed for new homesteaders and small-scale producers. Participants will be guided through each step—from dispatch and scalding to plucking, evisceration, and final packaging—using clear instruction and a strong focus on safety, sanitation, and animal welfare. We’ll discuss equipment options, legal considerations, how to sell, and tips for processing poultry at home in a clean, efficient, and respectful way.Â
This class is ideal for anyone looking to become more self-sufficient, improve their homestead skills, or understand where their food comes from.
Churn & Learn: Butter Making Basics
Instructor: Susan Hand
Instructor: Susan Hand
In this hands-on class, students will learn how to make fresh, homemade butter from cream using traditional and modern techniques. Explore the history and process of churning, flavor your butter with herbs or spices, and take home your own handcrafted creation. Perfect for beginners and anyone wanting to add a delicious, homemade touch to their kitchen.
Daily Raffles!
Stick around until the end of each day for our Daily Raffles, featuring incredible prize donations from brands like MeatEater, Brinsea, local feed stores, and many more generous supporters. Each day brings a new round of prizes—ranging from outdoor and farm gear to practical homestead favorites.
Raffles are a fun way to support the event while giving you a chance to take home something truly useful. The more days you attend, the more chances you have to win—so don’t head out early!
Falconry Presentation
Instructor: James Neumann
Instructor: James Neumann
Fermentation for Gut Health
Instructor: Joy Morris
Instructor: Joy Morris
The art of fermentation with demonstration of some fermented foods
Fire Cider Hands On
Instructor: Marisa Grubbs
Instructor: Marisa Grubbs
Learn how to make fire cider, a traditional herbal tonic made from common kitchen ingredients and time-honored folk practices. In this hands-on class, participants will combine ingredients such as apple cider vinegar, garlic, onions, ginger, horseradish, peppers, and herbs to create their own batch of fire cider to take home. We’ll discuss ingredient selection, preparation methods, infusion times, storage, and the many ways people have traditionally incorporated fire cider into their wellness routines. Whether you’re interested in herbalism, homesteading, or preserving seasonal harvests, this class offers a practical introduction to one of the most popular homemade tonics.
Fire Starting with Ferro Rod for Kids
Instructor: Instructor: Rick Dunlap
Instructor: Instructor: Rick Dunlap
Fire is one of the most important outdoor survival skills, and this hands-on class introduces youth to the fundamentals of safely starting a fire using a ferrocerium rod. Participants will learn proper ferro rod techniques, fire safety, tinder selection, and the basic principles needed to build and maintain a successful fire. This class is designed to build confidence, responsibility, and outdoor skills in a fun and supervised environment.
Parent or guardian participation is required for all children ages 5–12. Parents must remain present with their child throughout the duration of the class. Youth ages 13 and older may attend independently.
Fishing Tournament
Test your skills in our exciting Fishing Tournament! Participants will compete to catch the biggest or most fish while learning tips and techniques for freshwater fishing. Fun for all ages, this event combines friendly competition with hands-on outdoor learning. Prizes awarded to top anglers.
Hide Tanning Workshop: Learn Traditional, Hands-On Tanning Skills
Instructor: TBD
Instructor: TBD
Discover the timeless craft of hide tanning in this hands-on workshop designed for beginners and homesteaders. Participants will learn the full process—from skinning prep and fleshing to stretching, softening, and finishing a usable hide using traditional, natural methods. We’ll cover tools, techniques, and practical tips for working with different types of hides, along with discussions on ethical harvesting and utilizing every part of the animal. This class is perfect for anyone interested in sustainable living, heritage skills, or adding new knowledge to their homestead toolkit.
Holistic Wellness
Instructor: Carrie Himes
Instructor: Carrie Himes
Join Carrie Himes for an introduction to holistic wellness and practical ways to support your health using natural, everyday habits. This class will explore the connection between nutrition, lifestyle, and overall well-being while discussing simple approaches that can be incorporated into daily life. Whether you’re just beginning your wellness journey or looking to expand your knowledge, you’ll leave with practical tips and a better understanding of caring for your body and mind through a more natural approach.
*Bring a towel or yoga mat*
Homeschooling: Where to Start & How to Begin with Confidence
Instructor: Shepard Lilley
Instructor: Shepard Lilley
Thinking about homeschooling but not sure where to begin? This class is designed to help new and prospective homeschooling families navigate the first steps with confidence. Learn how to choose a curriculum, understand your state’s homeschooling requirements, create a flexible daily routine, and avoid common beginner mistakes. Whether you’re planning ahead or considering homeschooling this year, you’ll leave with practical resources, encouragement, and a clear roadmap to confidently begin your family’s homeschooling journey.
Honey & What to Do With It: Infusions, Hot Honey & Everyday Uses
Instructor: Samantha Werner
Instructor: Samantha Werner
Honey is more than just a sweetener. Join Samantha Werner as she explores the many ways honey can be used in everyday life, from flavorful infusions and hot honey to cooking, preserving, and simple household uses. Learn how to safely create infused honeys, discover creative ways to incorporate honey into your kitchen, and gain a greater appreciation for one of nature’s most versatile products. Whether you’re a beekeeper or simply a honey enthusiast, you’ll leave with practical ideas and inspiration to put honey to work in your home.
Improvised First Aid: You have something even if you have nothing
Instructor: Kenneth Brunswig (Grumpy Bushcraft)
Instructor: Kenneth Brunswig (Grumpy Bushcraft)
Thinking outside of the box when the box is gone because you were dumb and left the box in your car.
Loom Weaving
Instructor: Momma Wendy
Instructor: Momma Wendy
Beginner friendly class on the process of interlacing two distinct sets of threads—the lengthwise warp and the crosswise weft—to create fabric.
Making Soap from Goats Milk
Instructor: Dyan Mardlin
Instructor: Dyan Mardlin
Teaching you how to make your own soaps. Class size limited
Microhomesteading
Instructor: Dyan Mardlin
Instructor: Dyan Mardlin
Think you need acres of land to become more self-sufficient? Think again. Discover how to maximize small spaces to produce food, reduce dependence on the grocery store, and live a more sustainable lifestyle. Whether you have a suburban backyard, a small rural property, or even limited outdoor space, you’ll learn practical strategies for gardening, raising small livestock, preserving food, and making the most of every square foot. Perfect for beginners and anyone looking to start their homesteading journey—no large farm required.
Natural Wreath Making
Instructor: Carrie Himes
Instructor: Carrie Himes
Learn how to grow, harvest, dry, and preserve flowers from your own garden to create beautiful, seasonal wreaths and decorations. This class will cover flower selection, drying techniques, storage methods, and wreath-making basics using materials that can be grown or foraged close to home. Whether you’re looking to add beauty to your homestead, create handmade gifts, or make use of flowers beyond their bloom season, you’ll leave with practical skills and inspiration for year-round natural crafting.
Naturally You: Rethinking Women's Grooming in a Self-Reliant World
Instructor: Brittany Sanborn
Instructor: Brittany Sanborn
Self-reliance isn’t just about growing food, raising livestock, or learning outdoor skills—it’s also about questioning habits we’ve been taught to accept without thought. In this discussion, we’ll explore the cultural expectations surrounding women’s shaving, the practical benefits of reducing or eliminating shaving, and how embracing our natural bodies can be an act of confidence and self-sufficiency. This class encourages thoughtful conversation, personal choice, and a fresh perspective on modern beauty standards.
Navigation & Night Navigation
Instructor: Shane Hobel
Instructor: Shane Hobel
This is considered as one of the rarest areas of study, in the Art of Tracking. Moving through landscapes and knowing, not just direction, but resources and how to find them. Be it by day or by night. Seeing how the trees and plants are growing, creating patterns indicating direction/s. How animal sign and movement gives clues of resources. How the veins of a leaves change as you get closer to a water source. How the call of one bird, can lead you to water, medicine, shelter and fire materials. There are signs and clues everywhere on the landscape. Guiding you to the harvest areas or being able to travel effortlessly through the lands. A rare glimpse into this skill.
Night Nav will be for those staying over night only.
Navigating Church Security
Instructor: Rick Paxton
Instructor: Rick Paxton
Quail: How to Raise Them for Eggs, Meat & Self-Sufficiency
Instructor: Brittany Sanborn & James Neuman
Instructor: Brittany Sanborn & James Neuman
This class covers the basics of raising corturnix quail for eggs, meat, and small-scale food production. Attendees will learn about housing options, feeding requirements, breeding basics, and daily care routines, along with tips for keeping quail healthy and productive.
Perfect for beginners, homesteaders, and anyone interested in adding a fast-growing, efficient poultry option to their backyard or farm, this class provides a practical introduction to quail husbandry and what to expect when raising them at home.
Rabbit Harvesting for Maximum Yield
Instructor: Kyle Sanborn
Instructor: Kyle Sanborn
This practical workshop teaches the most efficient and humane methods for harvesting meat rabbits with a focus on maximizing usable yield. Participants will learn proper dispatch techniques, clean and careful skinning, and processing methods that preserve both meat quality and hides. We’ll cover how to dispatch and clean, reduce waste, and utilize as much of the animal as possible—making rabbit one of the most efficient proteins on the homestead.
This class is ideal for homesteaders, small-scale producers, and anyone interested in ethical meat production, self-sufficiency, and respectful animal use.
Rendering Tallow & Making Tallow Butter or Balm - HANDS ON
Instructor: Marisa Grubbs
Instructor: Marisa Grubbs
Learn how to transform raw beef fat into clean, usable tallow and discover why this traditional skill has been valued for generations. In this hands-on class, participants will follow the process of rendering tallow from start to finish before using it to create nourishing tallow butter or balm. We’ll discuss sourcing quality fat, rendering methods, storage, and the many uses of tallow around the homestead, from skincare to cooking and beyond. Leave with practical knowledge, a deeper appreciation for using the whole animal, and the confidence to make your own tallow products at home.
Sewing 101
Instructor: Susan Hand
Instructor: Susan Hand
Learn the fundamentals of basic sewing in this beginner-friendly class. Students will practice essential skills such as repairing holes, sewing on buttons, and making simple mends, giving you the confidence to handle everyday clothing repairs and small projects at home. All materials and tools will be provided.
Do you have items that need mending? Bring them and we’ll work on them in class!
'The Big Picture of Survival' Wilderness Survival Reality
Instructor: Shane Hobel - THURSDAY ONLY
Instructor: Shane Hobel - THURSDAY ONLY
The Many Uses of a KitchenAid on the Homestead
Instructor: Brittany Sanborn
Instructor: Brittany Sanborn
This class explores the many practical ways a KitchenAid mixer can be used on the homestead far beyond basic baking. Attendees will learn how this versatile tool supports food preservation, scratch cooking, and everyday homestead efficiency—from doughs and batters to grinding, shredding, mixing, and more using common attachments.
Perfect for homesteaders, home cooks, and anyone looking to get more value out of the tools they already own, this class offers real-world insight into making a KitchenAid work harder in a self-sufficient kitchen.
Tinctures/Medicinal Herbs Blending - HANDS ON
Instructor: Marisa Grubbs
Instructor: Marisa Grubbs
Explore the art of creating herbal tinctures and custom medicinal herb blends using traditional techniques that have been passed down for generations. In this hands-on class, participants will learn the basics of selecting, preparing, and combining herbs to create tinctures, teas, and other herbal preparations. We’ll discuss common medicinal herbs, extraction methods, storage, and how different herbs can be blended to support a variety of wellness goals. Whether you’re new to herbalism or looking to expand your skills, you’ll leave with practical knowledge and a deeper understanding of working with nature’s pharmacy.
Trade Blanket
Instructor: Momma Wendy
Instructor: Momma Wendy
Join Momma Wendy as she shares the time-honored tradition of bartering and trading—an essential skill that communities have relied on for generations. Learn how our ancestors exchanged goods, services, and knowledge without the use of modern currency, building relationships and strengthening their communities along the way. This hands-on and interactive class will explore the art of negotiation, determining value, and making fair trades while giving participants the opportunity to practice these skills for themselves. Whether you’re interested in homesteading, preparedness, or simply reconnecting with traditional ways of life, this class offers a fun and practical look at one of humanity’s oldest forms of commerce.
Trapping for Fur, Food, and Land Management
Instructor: Kyle Sanborn | Fluent Frontier LLC
Instructor: Kyle Sanborn | Fluent Frontier LLC
Learn ethical and effective trapping techniques to manage wildlife, provide food, and harvest fur. This hands-on class covers trap selection, placement, and safety, along with humane practices, fur preparation, and how trapping can benefit land stewardship. Perfect for homesteaders, hunters, and landowners looking to responsibly manage wildlife.
Tracking: The Art of Trailing
Instructor: Shane Hobel
Instructor: Shane Hobel
Urban Emergency Preparedness
Instructor: Shane Hobel, Mountain Scout Survival School
Instructor: Shane Hobel, Mountain Scout Survival School
- Communication: Primitive to Present. System options & protocols, what to say and not say on the radio
- ‘Go-Bags‘ or ‘kits’- the do’s and don’ts and the myths. 5 overall ‘kits’ which includes the home and car kits. We talk about what’s inside them and why there’s a difference.
- Paths of travel & Meeting points/caches. How far ? How fast? Who’s with me? ..and a few more questions we should ask.
- Available resources along the way
- Safety & Security
Water: Location and Purification
Instructor: Shane Hobel
Instructor: Shane Hobel
Join Mountain Scout Survival School in a breakdown on how to find water when you need it and how to make sure it’s clean enough to drink.
What Happens After the Shoot
Instructor: Rick Paxton
Instructor: Rick Paxton
Youth Outdoor Safety and Readiness
Instructor: Rick Dunlap
Instructor: Rick Dunlap
Give your young adventurers the skills and confidence to safely explore the outdoors. This class will introduce age-appropriate lessons in outdoor awareness, basic safety, preparedness, and responsible decision-making while spending time outside. Topics may include recognizing hazards, staying found, emergency preparedness, respecting wildlife, and developing good outdoor habits that can last a lifetime.
Parent or guardian participation is required for all children ages 5–12. Parents must remain present with their child throughout the duration of the class. Youth ages 13 and older may attend independently.
Ready to reserve your spot in a specific class?
Once you have secured your event pass, you will receive an exclusive link and instructions to view the full class catalog and sign up for your preferred sessions.