Women's Primitive Survival 101

with Jacks Genega and Phillip Liebel

3 DAYS/2 NIGHTS

Beginner/Moderate Level

$400.00

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​​​ABOUT

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"Primitive (first) skills are our shared inheritance. It is the shared thread which links us to our prehistory and binds us together as human beings [...] The learning and practice of aboriginal skills can help us all get in touch with our own roots, no matter what our particular heritage may be." - Steve Watts

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Women’s Primitive Survival 101 is a course directed towards women of all ages to encourage more female participation in the field of wilderness adventure. Students from all skill levels are welcome and no experience is required. Whether you are a proclaimed survivalist, a weekend bushcrafter, a homesteader, an ultralight hiker, or just a general everyday “wild woman,” this class is designed to promote a sense of community through our shared love of nature. Wildcard Wilderness leads all women’s courses to promote strong social bonds, provide a supportive environment that aids in inclusivity and leadership, and to build skills that promote empowerment and confidence both within ourselves and out in the “wild unknown.” 

Over the duration of this course, we will learn to take care of our immediate needs in wilderness survival as we discuss survival priorities such as fire, shelter, and water procurement with the use of both modern and primitive tools. We will learn how to replace our kit-based items and return to the landscape to build fire by friction, create a cutting edge, and make various tools that aid in the transition from surviving to thriving. Together we will go on a “woodland walk” to procure various plant-based resources that aid in firecraft, medicine, food, and other utilitarian needs like cordage. Students will also develop skills in primitive food procurement methods like building traps for fish and woodland game.

Other topics will include safety, hygiene, and the “survival mentality” as we learn to push past fears and unlock deep connections with nature. This class is for participants who desire to both learn and grow, as well as how to develop a sense of resilience through self-reliance in both community and as individuals in the wild.

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ABOUT PHILLIP LIEBEL

Phillip’s fascination with primitive weaponry and hunting evolved into a deep appreciation for survival essentials like fire, water, food, and shelter as he spent more time in the wilderness. Leaving behind a soul-crushing 9-to-5 job, he pursued his passion by teaching survival skills, earning recognition among top instructors and prestigious gatherings. His expertise led to an opportunity to appear on the History Channel’s Alone, but he chose family over fame, staying by his pregnant wife’s side. When a new spin-off, Alone: The Beast, arose, Phillip embraced the challenge, balancing his love for adventure with his commitment to his growing family.

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The Canadian Arctic tested Phillip’s resilience, pushing him to his limits with biting cold and relentless hunger. Though illness forced him to leave the show, he emerged with greater resolve. Mentored by survival legend Dave Holladay, Phillip deepened his connection to nature and honed his skills. A harrowing solo experience during a flash flood became transformative, teaching him the value of community and the interconnectedness of survival and relationships. Now, Phillip dedicates himself to sharing his hard-earned wisdom, inspiring others to find strength, connection, and hope in the wild.

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​​COURSE HIGHLIGHTS

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• Learn how to take care of your immediate needs in an emergency situation

• Learn how to properly use a knife and saw to avoid injury

• Make fire with various ignitions from modern to primitive using your ferro rod, magnifying lens, bow-drill and hand-drill

• Learn how to positively identify plants and trees that aid in fire, tool construction, and medicine as we go on a woodland walk to collect resources

• Shelter construction from your kit and off the forest floor

• Learn how to make cordage and rope

• Create a cutting edge from your environment

• Discover various techniques in food procurement and campfire cooking

• Discussion on how to maintain good hygiene in a wilderness setting

• Acquire simple navigation techniques without the use of a compass

• Develop deep connections with the self, others, and nature

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REQUIRED GEAR LIST

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• Fixed Blade Knife with Sheath (4” min blade length)

• Folding Saw (Silky is recommended)

• Ferro Rod with Striker

• 1 x Magnifying Lens

• 1 x Stainless Steel Container with an Enclosed Lid (Altoids tin will work fine)

• 1 x Small Stainless Steel Cup or Pot for Boiling Water

• 2 x 100% Cotton Bandana (to be discarded)

• 1 x Roll of Jute Twine (100 ft min)

• 1 x 4x4 ft Utility Cloth

Optional Gear for this Class from Amazon

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ADDITIONAL ITEMS

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• Camp Chair for Comfort