The New Dream Blog
In our blog, we feature stories, tips, and commentary from contributors around the world on topics ranging from
consumerism and parenting to how to live a fuller life with less. Enjoy!
Interested in contributing a guest post? Please review our submission guidelines.
In Commerce We Trust?
by Kelly Garriott Waite | July 1, 2013
Author Kelly Garriott Waite reflects on the need to reclaim trust and community in today's culture of big-box stores and hyper-consumerism.
Free Time: The Forgotten American Dream
by Lisa Mastny | June 20, 2013
A new book describes how Americans have distanced themselves from their historical yearnings for free time, in favor of a culture of overwork.
Great Summer Reads: Recommendations from New Dream's Board
by New Dream | June 18, 2013
We asked our Board members for their favorite recent books on consumerism, community, and more. Check out their diverse and inspiring picks.
Living the Dream: Montana Homesteader Ashley Browning
by Edna Rienzi | June 17, 2013
Ashley Browning and her family recently relocated to a farm in Montana, where they aim to live a life focused on production, rather than consumption.
New "Green" Films You Won't Want to Miss
by Mark Valentine | June 14, 2013
New Dream shares highlights from the recent San Francisco Green Film Festival.
Reinventing Our Streetscapes: An Interview with Urban Tactician Mike Lydon
by Lisa Mastny | May 14, 2013
Lydon talks about his lifelong interest in cities and how he's devoted his career to making America's streets more walkable, safe, and fun.
Big Media, Big Bullying, and What You Can Do About It
by Emily Long | May 13, 2013
Big media companies spend huge sums on anti-bullying messaging, but the real power lies in our own ability to filter their product.
"Fast Fashion" Isn't Just Trendy and Glamorous: It Has Consequences
by Addison Del Mastro | May 12, 2013
Bangladesh is a heartbreaking reminder of the flip side of conscious consumption—and why we need to do better.
The Future of Work? Get on the Lattice or Die
by Liz Kofman and Astri Von Arbin Ahlander | May 8, 2013
How do you balance work and life in a financially tight and job-insecure world? First, forget about the corporate ladder.
Living the Dream: Ashley Whittenberger of Cosmic Acres
by Edna Rienzi | May 6, 2013
A few years ago, Ashley Whittenberger decided to trade in her “mainstream McMansion on a half-acre of manicured hell" for a life of freedom and creativity.
Making Responsible Business a Reality: An Interview with Etsy’s Matt Stinchcomb
by Lisa Mastny | April 17, 2013
Stinchcomb talks about his efforts to make the company — and business overall — more ecologically, socially, and economically responsible.
Going Screen-Free at Home: It’s Not as Hard as You Think
by Edna Rienzi | April 12, 2013
When a mother of three opted to enforce strict television rules in her home, she discovered that life was actually easier and less stressful.
“Craigslist Joe”: A Unique Experiment in Social Living
by Ryan Dwyer | April 12, 2013
Can a person live completely off of the goods, services, and support offered by strangers online?
Easter, Naturally
by Nancy Sleeth | March 12, 2013
As one of the most important celebrations on the Christian calendar, Easter is about more than plastic eggs and cellophane grass.
Mackle-more of What Matters
by Ryan Dwyer | March 8, 2013
You know times are changing when a rap about the hipness of thrift store shopping hits the top of the charts.