Live Free and Ham Podcast

Live Free and Ham Pod

Welcome to Live Free and Ham Podcast; we are your bi-weekly podcast covering all things ham radio in New Hampshire, New England, and beyond.
Be sure to check out our website at livefreeandham.com and our social pages on Instagram and Facebook.
If you want to support the show, you can buy us a coffee or become a Patreon supporter.
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Support the show:
Buy Us a Beer: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lfhpodcast
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/LiveFreeandHamPodcast
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093543540309
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livefreeandham/
Leave the hosts a voicemail:
Call and leave us a voicemail with comments or questions, or tell us how to do our jobs! 978.233.1142
Affiliate:
Live Free and Ham - 10% off all LFH Swag CODE: LFH10.
Reliance Antennas - 10% off and free shipping at https://www.relianceantennas.com/ CODE: LIVEFREEANDHAM
Halibut Electronics - 10% discount on all purchases https://electronics.halibut.com/ of $25 or more, limited to three uses per listener. CODE: LIVEFREEANDHAM
YouTube Channel:
Live Free and Ham - @livefreeandham
Eric (N1JUR) - @N1JUR
Paul (N1OG) - @NovemberOneOscarGrouch
Todd (W1STJ) - @W1STJ
Swag/Shows/Updates:
https://livefreeandham.com
Join our discord:
https://discord.com/invite/zas2cAVNPs
If you would also like to learn more about the hosts:
Todd (W1STJ) - https://w1stj.com
Eric (N1JUR) - https://n1jur.com
Paul (N1OG) - https://www.qrz.com/db/N1OG
Ryan (W1SNH) - https://w1snh.com
#livefreeandham #N1OG #N1JUR #W1STJ #NHPodcast #HamRadioPodcast #HamRadio #AmateurRadio
#HamRadioPodcast #AmatuerRadioPodcast

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Top 10 Live Free and Ham Podcast Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Live Free and Ham Podcast episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Live Free and Ham Podcast for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Live Free and Ham Podcast episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

Staying Linked When Winter Hits Hard

Live Free and Ham Podcast

12/09/24 • 96 min

Discover the secrets of staying connected and prepared as the chilly months approach. Imagine a world where your ham radio becomes an essential tool, not just a hobby, keeping you linked to loved ones when the power flickers out. Join us for an invigorating chat on "Live Free and Ham," where we unpack the art of antenna wire maintenance and the joy of prepping for winter in the northeast. Our tight-knit community extends a hearty welcome, inviting stories of positivity and camaraderie shared via our Discord and YouTube channels.
Experience the thrill and unpredictability of outdoor adventures with us, where hiking mishaps turn into cherished memories and multitasking on the trails becomes a skill to master. We dive into the world of ham radio, revealing the excitement of live streaming and engaging fellow enthusiasts on repeaters, all while juggling conversations like seasoned pros. From exploring the 10-meter band to handling radio equipment, we share laughs and insights that only a true ham radio aficionado can appreciate.
The conversation gets practical as we navigate the twists and turns of emergency preparedness. We’re talking about power walls, backup systems, and the nitty-gritty of yard work to protect your communication gear from the elements. We also shed light on the importance of battery management and the joys of integrating ham radios into daily life, ensuring you’re never caught off-guard when disaster strikes. And for those who can’t get enough, becoming a Patreon member unlocks a treasure trove of unedited moments and early access perks. So, tune in, gear up, and join us in fostering a supportive ham radio community where stories of readiness and positivity abound.

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Support the show

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Help Paul N1OG get to get his Class A Skydiving License
https://www.gofundme.com/f/donate-to-pauls-skydiving-therapy-adventure
Support the show:
Buy Us a Beer: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lfhpodcast
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/LiveFreeandHamPodcast
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093543540309
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livefreeandham/
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Leave us a Show Review via SMS Text - https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2178012/open_sms
Leave the hosts a voicemail:
Call and leave us a voicemail with comments or questions, or tell us how to do our jobs! 978.233.1142
Affiliate:
Live Free and Ham - 10% off all LFH Swag CODE: LFH10
Reliance Antennas - 10% off and free shipping at https://www.relianceantennas.com/ CODE: LIVEFREEANDHAM
Halibut Electronics - 10% discount on all purchases https://electronics.halibut.com/ of $25 or more, limited to three uses per listener. CODE: LIVEFREEANDHAM
YouTube Channel:
Live Free and Ham - @livefreeandham
Eric (N1JUR) - @N1JUR
Paul (N1OG) - @NovemberOneOscarGrouch
Todd (W1STJ) - @W1STJ
Swag/Shows/Updates:
https://livefreeandham.com
Join our discord:
https://discord.com/invite/zas2cAVNPs
If you would also like to learn more about the hosts:
Todd (W1STJ) - https://w1st...

Top Five POTA Hacks - Elevate your POTA Experience

Live Free and Ham Podcast

02/03/25 • 108 min

Have you ever wondered how a small act can create a ripple of connection and camaraderie? Our latest episode features an exciting new initiative, "Get Your Ham On," where we transform ham radio encounters into joyful community moments by leaving "you've been hammed" messages on vehicles with ham antennas.
For those who love gadgets and gear, tune in for insights on portable radio equipment efficiency and hacks to enhance your POTA experiences. Discover the benefits of color-coded canvas bag systems, and hear firsthand how keeping your equipment organized can make all the difference. We also discuss the importance of preparation in the face of winter field day challenges, with tips on selecting the perfect outdoor furniture to withstand the elements. Whether you're a seasoned operator or new to the hobby, our show is packed with stories, tips, and inspiration to fuel your ham radio journey.

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Live Show - POTA PARTY 2025 Live Event- International Women's Day

Live Free and Ham Podcast

02/22/25 • 90 min

We focus on the contributions and experiences of women involved in POTA activities, highlighting their initiatives and encouraging new participants to join. The episode explores challenges faced by women in the hobby while fostering a supportive atmosphere for beginners.
• Celebrating International Women's Day through POTA
• Sharing personal stories and experiences in POTA
• Encouragement for newcomers to join and participate
• Insights into favorite equipment and activation strategies
• Light-hearted discussions and quick-fire Q&A round
• Call for greater inclusivity and camaraderie in ham radio

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Exploring the Cold: Ham Radio Challenges and Solutions

Live Free and Ham Podcast

02/24/25 • 92 min

What if you could turn winter's chill into your best ham radio experience yet? This episode of "Live Free in Ham" promises to arm you with essential tips for operating in cold climates, with insights on maintaining your gear's functionality during winter. We explore everything from antenna care to battery management, ensuring you're prepared for the challenges of Winter Field Day and beyond. Listen as we share valuable stories that highlight the community spirit and the joy of mentoring newcomers in the ham radio hobby.
Join us as Todd W1STJ returns to tackle the extra class license in our popular segment, "A Little Something Extra with Todd W1STJ." Despite a few wrong answers and plenty of playful banter, Todd's preparation journey offers both educational insights and entertainment. We also discuss the utility of hamstudy.org and reminisce about encouraging others to pursue their technician licenses. Whether you're familiar with the intricacies of microphonics or the nuances of switch mode voltage regulators, there's something here for every ham radio enthusiast.
Don't miss out as we share behind-the-scenes moments and personal anecdotes, from a chilly beach outing in Maine to the joy of coaching a kids' baseball team. Tune in for a glimpse into our recording process, exclusive to our Patreon supporters, and stay for the spontaneous video releases that capture the fun of our adventures. With a dose of humor and a focus on preparation, this episode is packed with laughter, learning, and the rewarding experiences that make ham radio a passion worth pursuing.

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"Your Operating Position Will Change": Expert Insights on Setting Up a Ham Radio Station

Live Free and Ham Podcast

03/17/25 • 113 min

Ever stared at your cluttered ham radio desk wondering how to transform it into something more functional? You're not alone. This episode dives deep into the practical realities of creating an effective ham shack workspace that evolves with your operating style.
Todd shares his frustrations with his current monitor setup, sparking a candid conversation about the various approaches to building an efficient operating position. We explore everything from monitor choices (Do curved ultrawide displays actually help or hinder?), computer setups (Mac vs. Windows dilemmas), and the lighting challenges that plague content creators. The team shares hard-earned wisdom from their own station-building mistakes, offering practical advice on testing equipment before purchasing and understanding your workflow needs before investing.
The conversation reveals how modern ham stations have evolved beyond just accommodating radios—they must now support digital modes, video production, streaming, and more. Paul and Eric share specific configurations from their own shacks, while emphasizing that comfort ultimately determines how much you'll actually use your station: "If you're comfortable using it, then you're going to use it."
Between the technical talk, we celebrate a group of Florida college students who organized their own POTA activation across multiple universities—a heartening example of youth engagement in the hobby. We also put Todd through his paces with three extra class exam questions, with mixed results!
Whether you're building your first shack or reimagining your existing setup, this episode offers invaluable perspectives on creating a space that works for you today while remaining adaptable for tomorrow. Because as we all discover, your operating position will change—sometimes dramatically—as your ham radio journey continues.

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Live Show - We are Alaska Bound with Jeremy KL7EC

Live Free and Ham Podcast

04/15/24 • 63 min

Gather 'round, fellow adventurers, as this week we swap tales from the baseball diamond and sandy shores, to the icy frontiers of Alaska with Jeremy KL7EC of KL7EC Outdoors. Our camaraderie blooms in the chill of the Alaskan wilderness, where we uncover Jeremy's transition from CB to amateur radio, and how this has woven into the fabric of his extreme outdoor lifestyle. From activating parks over Denali's high peaks to innovating antenna setups in subzero temperatures, these stories will resonate with your inner explorer and radio aficionado alike.
As we recount our intrepid escapades — like flying over a frozen Denali or braving an ice storm that tested the mettle of a hex beam antenna — the spirit of ham radio adventure unfurls. You'll be captivated as we share our experiences with the latest radio gear designed to outsmart the harshest elements, share a chuckle over our 'rainforest' tent, and offer practical advice on keeping your operations toasty with wood stoves and buddy heaters amid a snowy expanse.
Our ham radio journey extends beyond the call of the wild, touching the hearts within our homes. I reflect on the unwavering support from my family, the joy of potentially sharing the airwaves with them, and the quirky challenges of learning Morse code that kindled a viewer's challenge. As we wrap up, we invite you to become an integral part of our story — through feedback, sharing your tales, and connecting with us as we continue to stitch together a tapestry of communication, adventure, and family through the hobby we love. So stoke the fire, plug in your headphones, and let's embark on this journey together.

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You Never Go to the Grocery Store Hungry

Live Free and Ham Podcast

11/20/23 • 50 min

It's a wild, wondrous world for amateur radio enthusiasts, and we've got your all-access pass! From cozy local gatherings to regional celebrations all the way to expansive conferences, we cover every corner of the ham fest universe. Todd even dishes up some insider advice for new hams straight from NEAR-fest, while Ryan shares his ingenious strategy for scoring those elusive unmarked components. And guess what? Buying second-hand radios isn't as scary as it seems!
But it doesn't stop there! We also traverse the intriguing terrain of 'boat anchors', finding the best deals, and of course, the unforgettable experiences of attending ham fests.

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Adventures in Ham Radio and Storytelling

Live Free and Ham Podcast

01/06/25 • 99 min

Guest extraordinaire, Kermit Jones from Opelika, Alabama, joins us to share his fascinating journey into the world of ham radio and authorship. Discover how Kermit, a Navy Reserves veteran, turned a weekend flu-induced haze into a whirlwind of licensing success, obtaining his technician, general, and extra ham radio licenses. Kermit’s passion for preparedness and teaching young audiences shines through as he crafts children’s books that blend storytelling with practical life skills.
Join us as we celebrate the thriving spirit of the ham radio community, spotlighting Tim from the Granite State Amateur Radio Association and his inspiring outreach efforts at a New Hampshire STEM event. Witness the hilarious antics as Paul, our quizmaster, challenges us with a fun ham radio licensing quiz. We share tales of park activations and the $20 antenna challenge, where the cold might bite, but the passion for radio keeps us warm. Tom’s stories of activating a park in Arkansas bring the thrill of worldwide connections from Hawaii to Brazil.
Get ready for an engaging discussion on the creative process behind Kermit’s upcoming book projects, including innovative storytelling to inspire the next generation of ham enthusiasts. From "POTA Pam" to "Radio Rick," his characters captivate young readers, making learning enjoyable and informative. We explore the joys of community support, plan our Live Free in Ham podcast, and show you how you can participate through our various platforms. Come along for a heartfelt journey through amateur radio, storytelling, and community engagement.
Links to Prepper Pete's Books: https://www.prepperpeteandfriends.com/

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Exploring the Wild: Activating Parks and Wildlife Preserves for POTA Adventures

Live Free and Ham Podcast

07/22/24 • 73 min

What if exploring the great outdoors could become an exhilarating ham radio adventure? In this episode of Live Free and Ham, we take you on a journey through the trials and triumphs of activating wildlife preserves and trail systems for Parks on the Air (POTA). We share personal stories from our own activations in North Carolina and New Hampshire, offering a rare glimpse into the unique challenges and joys of setting up ham radio operations in these pristine environments. Plus, hear about the outstanding contributions from the Grand State Amateur Radio Association and how other clubs are making their mark in the ham radio community.
Imagine the power of a portable antenna that’s as effective as it is easy to use. Todd recounts his success with the BuddyPole Pro, despite a brief hiatus due to personal projects. We revisit past park activations, discussing tips and tricks for optimizing your gear in the field. We also seek your feedback on the BuddyPole Pro, emphasizing the importance of community insights in advancing portable operations. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a curious newbie, you’ll find valuable advice and practical solutions to elevate your ham radio experiences.
Have you ever considered activating non-traditional POTA parks? From navigating remote wildlife management areas to setting up mobile HF stations at kids' soccer games, we cover it all with humor and practical advice. We share stories of adventures at Moosehead Lake in Maine and the Copacut Wildlife Management Area, highlighting the creativity and planning needed for these unique activations. We also touch on navigating wildlife park boundaries and the tools that can help. Join us for an engaging discussion that promises to inspire your next ham radio adventure and maybe even challenge you to explore new territories.
Multimeter: Review from Temporarily Offline YT Channel (TO.)
TO. YT: https://youtu.be/Bcb4D2r_aT4?si=fYMcltwSl9e9VyEx
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PHDJRP3?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
Onx Offroad Trail Maps
https://www.onxmaps.com

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Homebrew vs. Store-Bought: The Ultimate Antenna Debate for Ham Radio Enthusiasts

Live Free and Ham Podcast

03/11/24 • 77 min

Ever wondered if crafting your own antenna could put you on a pedestal in the ham radio community, or is shelling out for a store-bought model the way to go? Strap in as we, your hosts Eric N1JUR, Paul KF4TPY, and Todd W1STJ, debate the merits of build vs. buy and bring you a treasure trove of tales from antenna adventures to Park Activations. We're not just talking theory here; we dive into real-life stories of go-box transformations, the quest for the elusive Hawaiian contact, and the unmatched thrill of snagging that rare call sign.
Discover the secrets behind setting up the best antennas for on-the-go comms, from the Buddy Pole Pro's fine-tuning finesse to End Fed wonders like the Reliance antenna sweeping the ham radio scene. We're not shy about our missteps and triumphs, whether it's Paul's budget fan dipole or my high school antenna that opened up the airwaves. We even toss the idea of an antenna assembly competition for kicks and camaraderie; who says radio can't be a spectator sport?
We wrap things up by emphasizing the joy found in experimenting and growing within the hobby, whether you're piecing together your first homebrew antenna or unboxing the latest commercial marvel. Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all solution for antennas, and there's a wealth of knowledge to be gained from every POTA activation, every rare contact, and every story shared. So, join us as we celebrate the spirit of ham radio – where learning, laughing, and the occasional 'lost mouse' hunt are all part of the journey to becoming a savvier operator.

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FAQ

How many episodes does Live Free and Ham Podcast have?

Live Free and Ham Podcast currently has 79 episodes available.

What topics does Live Free and Ham Podcast cover?

The podcast is about Radio, Leisure, Hobbies, Electronic, Ham Radio, Podcasts and Technology.

What is the most popular episode on Live Free and Ham Podcast?

The episode title 'Live Show - We'll there goes the neighborhood' is the most popular.

What is the average episode length on Live Free and Ham Podcast?

The average episode length on Live Free and Ham Podcast is 84 minutes.

How often are episodes of Live Free and Ham Podcast released?

Episodes of Live Free and Ham Podcast are typically released every 7 days, 3 hours.

When was the first episode of Live Free and Ham Podcast?

The first episode of Live Free and Ham Podcast was released on Jun 5, 2023.

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Live Free and Ham Podcast

Live Free and Ham Pod

Top 10 Live Free and Ham Podcast Episodes

FAQ

How many episodes does Live Free and Ham Podcast have?

What topics does Live Free and Ham Podcast cover?

What is the most popular episode on Live Free and Ham Podcast?

What is the average episode length on Live Free and Ham Podcast?

How often are episodes of Live Free and Ham Podcast released?

When was the first episode of Live Free and Ham Podcast?

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