About
Jamie L. Burleigh is a seasoned outdoorsman, craftsman, and camp cook, rooted in the traditions of the Northwoods. With over 30 years of experience, he enjoys sharing the old ways that keep people connected to nature. From hand-forged tools to time-honored recipes, Jamie’s work reflects his deep connection with the wild. Whether he’s teaching survival skills or crafting one-of-a-kind goods, his passion for the old ways is at the heart of everything he does.
More about-
I’m an author, craftsman, and survival instructor with a career spanning over three decades. As the co-founder of the Old World Alliance, I’ve spent most of my life teaching self-reliance, survival, and outdoor skills to people from all walks of life.
My journey began in 1992 when I started formally teaching survival skills at wilderness schools and reservations. Since then, I’ve spent thousands of documented hours in the field, helping others embrace the outdoor lifestyle with confidence. My dedication has made me a prominent figure in the outdoor community, contributing to numerous trade magazines and periodicals, and authoring for Creek Stewart's Pocket Field Guide series.
I’ve also hosted the television show Outdoor Explorer and worked as a contractor for National Geographic. My experience includes serving as the lead instructor for Dave Canterbury at The Pathfinder School, where I taught everything from basic survival to advanced trapping. Currently, I’m an associate instructor at Campcraft Outdoors, and I’ve directed programs focused on environmental conservation for family-based learning, both on and off Six Nation reserves.
Beyond instruction, I’m also a maker hand-forging and making hand-made goods at my backwoods shop, JB’s Mercantile. I’m also an acclaimed camp cook, known for sharing Northwoods and Native cultures’ recipes and cooking techniques. My contributions to the outdoor community extend to developing the first outdoor skills program for PHAS districts and creating youth scout craft classes for organizations like the Sea Cadets, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and 4H.
I’m a certified U.S. Fish and Wildlife trapper, licensed nuisance animal trapper, and hold certifications in wilderness and remote first aid. I’m also a Stop The Bleed and wilderness first aid instructor. My experience extends beyond the field, with roles in National Geographic’s art department and as a pro-staff/retail sales representative, showcasing my diverse skill set both outdoors and in professional settings.
Beyond my professional achievements, I’m most proud of being a father and husband, balancing family life with my passion for the outdoors. Through my personal website and brand, JamieBurleigh.com, I share that experience by offering quality handmade goods and educational content. My goal is to build a lasting legacy that reflects my deep connection to the natural world.-jb