Replay: Isaac Seidel Part 1 - A Simple Life
The Vanished Podcast
Deep Dive
What were the circumstances of Isaac Seidel's disappearance?
Isaac Seidel, a 36-year-old man from Blain, Pennsylvania, disappeared on September 12, 2021. His loved ones grew concerned when he missed several days of work. Upon visiting his home, they found his bicycle, backpack, and phone missing, but everything else, including chicken thawing in the sink, seemed untouched, suggesting he planned to return home.
Why did Isaac's family initially think he might have had an accident?
Isaac's family initially thought he might have had a tragic accident because he was an avid biker, and his bicycle was missing. They searched the roads, ditches, and ravines near his home but found no trace of him.
What was Isaac Seidel's lifestyle like before his disappearance?
Isaac lived a simple, self-sustaining lifestyle. He worked on an organic farm, grew his own food, kept bees, and raised pigs. He had recently quit his government job to focus on his farm and sustainable living, valuing time over money.
What was Isaac's relationship with Emily, and how did it impact him?
Isaac was deeply in love with Emily, whom he met in the summer of 2021. Their relationship ended in August 2021 when Emily felt things were moving too fast. Isaac was heartbroken and hopeful they might reconcile. The breakup occurred shortly before his disappearance, leading some to speculate it may have influenced his actions.
What unusual details were found at Isaac's home after his disappearance?
Isaac's home showed signs he intended to return: chicken was thawing in the sink, and his pig was left in the barn. His bicycle, backpack, and phone were missing, but he left behind his driver’s license and debit card, adding to the mystery of his disappearance.
What efforts were made to search for Isaac after he went missing?
Isaac's family and friends organized extensive searches, including combing nearby state forests and roads. Over 50 people joined one search effort, and the DCNR helped organize the operation. Despite these efforts, no trace of Isaac or his bicycle was found.
What was Isaac's personality like according to his friends and family?
Isaac was described as a unique, intelligent, and adventurous person. He was passionate about sustainable living, loved outdoor activities like hiking and biking, and was deeply moral. He was also introspective, often keeping his deeper feelings private, but could be outgoing and social when he chose to be.
What was Isaac's job at the time of his disappearance?
Isaac worked at Threefold Farm, an organic fruit farm in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. He had started the job in June 2021 and was passionate about learning sustainable farming practices to apply to his own property.
What were Isaac's long-term goals before he disappeared?
Isaac aimed to live a self-sustaining life on his farm. He had paid off his property and quit his government job to focus on farming, gardening, and beekeeping. He wanted to live simply and independently, free from the constraints of a traditional job.
What role did Isaac's breakup with Emily play in his disappearance?
Isaac's breakup with Emily occurred just weeks before his disappearance. He was deeply affected by it, as she was someone he saw as a perfect match. Some family members believe the breakup may have been a turning point that influenced his actions, though his exact motivations remain unclear.
Shownotes Transcript