Join us November 7-9, 2025 at the Learning Gardens near Athens Texas!

Austin Walsh is a farmer and dedicated land steward at the Learning Gardens. His journey began with years spent living on the road, visiting and immersing himself in farms and intentional communities across the country. During this time, Austin developed a deep respect for the natural world and honed his skills under the guidance of experienced farmers and land stewards.

In 2021, he arrived on the land that would soon become the Learning Gardens. Guided by nature and rooted in permaculture principles, Austin has played a key role in shaping the farm’s structure and vision. In addition to his daily work cultivating the land, he serves as Secretary of the Learning Gardens Board of Directors. Austin is grateful to be living his dream—creating a space where community can gather, learn, and strengthen our collective connection to the natural world.

Robin Swindle is a dedicated Texas Master Naturalist with a deep passion for all things nature. Her interests include gardening, birding, nature journaling, mycology, and studying aquatic macroinvertebrates. Robin’s commitment to the environment extends to her role on the board of The Learning Gardens, where she actively promotes environmental education and sustainable practices. She is also a strong supporter of the SKIP program and has earned numerous badge bits, reflecting her dedication to hands-on permaculture education and community engagement.

Garrett is a passionate plant and fungi enthusiast dedicated to the art of cultivation and creation. With a deep-rooted fascination for the natural world, he approaches every project as a lifelong learner and student of the earth. Garrett's workshops are designed to inspire participants to engage with the beauty of our ecosystem while gaining practical skills in cultivating and utilizing plants and fungi. Join him for an enriching experience that promises to ignite your creativity and deepen your connection to nature.

Kylie McFall is a clinical herbalist and founder of Audacious Herb, whose life and work are rooted in resilience and restoration. After overcoming multiple sclerosis, Graves’ disease, and PTSD, she experienced a profound renewal of health that reshaped her future. Completing her first triathlon—finishing in sixth place—ignited an unstoppable fire to help others pursue healing and strength. Today, Kylie combines her expertise in herbal medicine with her faith and personal journey to empower others to address root causes, restore balance, and step boldly into the abundant life they were created for.

Edward and Rachel Donnelly run Bob Wells Nursery at Sorelle Farms in Mineola, Texas, where they help homesteaders and gardeners grow productive, easy-to-care-for fruit trees and edible plants.  Since taking over the nursery in 2018, they’ve blended their family values, hands-on experience, and a passion for teaching into a welcoming, educational space. Ed manages growing and operations, while Rachel leads retail and customer education—all from their family farm, Sorelle Farms.  Whether you’re starting a backyard orchard or planting your first fruit tree, the Donnellys are here to help you grow with confidence.