Best Live Free and Ham Pod Podcasts (2025)

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I Just Shipped My Pants And Other Ham Radio Misadventures 1:59:12

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9h ago1:59:12

1:59:12

Ten meters roared, the waterfall glowed, and somewhere in the chaos a “maritime emergency” calling spot was buried under contesters. We stepped straight into CQ Worldwide and asked a hard question: who really owns a frequency when the world shows up? From band etiquette to practical emergency options, we unpack the culture and the realities that ma…

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We Paddled To An Island, Fired Up 600 Watts, And Worked The World 2:16:12

7d ago2:16:12

2:16:12

The tide doesn’t care about your logbook—and that’s exactly why we chased it. We loaded radios, batteries, and a vertical dipole into kayaks, paddled two miles on a rising tide, and landed on a slippery sliver of grass called Eagle Island. The result? A sustained, three-hour pileup on 10 meters that reached across Europe, South America, and 20 U.S.…

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Bullets, BaoFengs, And Bonsai: Yes, We Went There 2:26:56

14d ago2:26:56

2:26:56

The best radio goals aren’t just wish lists—they’re roadmaps with real checkpoints, community support, and a bit of swagger. We kick off by tightening the feedback loop: Discord for day-to-day chatter, a new AllStar hub (580871) for live linking, monthly livestreams, and voicemails you’ll actually hear on the show. That community energy pays off fa…

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Four flip-flops walk into a divider… 2:21:08

21d ago2:21:08

2:21:08

Radios bring us together; NearFest reminds us why. We packed a three-day ham festival into 24 hours—livestreams, campsite breakfasts, last-minute builds—and still found time to argue about antennas, fix MeshTastic nodes, and quiz Todd on Extra-class theory. It’s chaotic in the best way: flip-flops dividing by sixteen, Schottky vs zener symbols, and…

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Three hams walk into Near-Fest and leave with fewer radios, more stories, and an AllStar hub to prove it 1:35:00

28d ago1:35:00

1:35:00

The best radio days start a little chaotic: rain on the windshield, a wire tossed higher than your plan, and a stranger asking, “What are you doing?” That moment led us into a POTA run where 10 and 15 meters opened like a faucet—France, Belgium, Spain, Germany—flowing in with the kind of clarity that makes you forget your battery just died mid-CQ. …

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The Ham Radio Crusader's Guide to All-Star Link Nodes 2:08:09

1M ago2:08:09

2:08:09

Dive into the world of All-Star Link with our special guest Freddie Mack (KD5FMU), better known as the Ham Radio Crusader. In this comprehensive conversation, Freddie shares his journey from law enforcement to becoming one of the most trusted voices in the All-Star Link community, offering invaluable insights for both newcomers and experienced oper…

1
The Mesh Dealer Takes Over Live Free and Ham 2:28:07

1M ago2:28:07

2:28:07

The world of mesh networking collides with ham radio as we welcome Dave KB5UTY, affectionately known as "The Mesh Dealer," to share his journey from casual GMRS user to becoming Seed Studios' ham radio ambassador for Meshtastic technology. Dave pulls back the curtain on a fascinating communication ecosystem that bridges traditional amateur radio wi…

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24 Hour POTA Campout Recap! 3:08:43

2M ago3:08:43

3:08:43

We’re thrilled to have finally dried out and found our way back to a harmonious "work-life balance." Yet, the excitement of the 24-Hour POTA Campout still lingers in our minds! We can’t wait to gather a wonderful group of friends to reminisce about the adventure, share heartfelt stories, and celebrate the generous contributions made to the Teachers…

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PLEASE COPY - Mobile Signals: Ham Radio Meets Modern Cars 1:05:03

2M ago1:05:03

1:05:03

We want to share a segment where each of the three hosts picks their favorite episode from our back catalog. We'll be taking some time off for Labor Day, the 24-hour POTA weekend, and the second weekend in September. During this break, we will re-air episodes that all three of us enjoyed recording. We’ll be back soon with more exciting content! Lea…

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PLEASE COPY - 20 WPM with a Hacksaw Blade and a Nail 29:18

2M ago29:18

29:18

We want to share a segment where each of the three hosts picks their favorite episode from our back catalog. We'll be taking some time off for Labor Day, the 24-hour POTA weekend, and the second weekend in September. During this break, we will re-air episodes that all three of us enjoyed recording. We’ll be back soon with more exciting content! Lea…

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PLEASE COPY - Overcoming Mic Fright 1:16:58

2M ago1:16:58

1:16:58

We want to share a segment where each of the three hosts picks their favorite episode from our back catalog. We'll be taking some time off for Labor Day, the 24-hour POTA weekend, and the second weekend in September. During this break, we will re-air episodes that all three of us enjoyed recording. We’ll be back soon with more exciting content! Lea…

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Finding POTA Legends 2:16:01

2M ago2:16:01

2:16:01

What makes the difference between casual POTA operators and those who've activated thousands of parks? The answer might surprise you. In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of elite Parks on the Air operators after discovering footage from Huntsville Hamfest featuring interviews with the program's top activators. The revelation that sh…

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Planning for Propagation Challenges at the 24-Hour POTA Event 1:45:38

3M ago1:45:38

1:45:38

The countdown to our 24-Hour Parks on the Air adventure has begun! With just 30 days until we gather at Greenfield State Park, we're diving deep into our plans for this ambitious marathon activation while addressing one key concern: will the bands cooperate? September propagation can be unpredictable, but we're not letting that dampen our spirits. …

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Wired and Fired: When Fuses Blow But Your Radio Doesn't 2:04:32

3M ago2:04:32

2:04:32

Ever wondered what it really takes to install a ham radio in your vehicle? Join us for a deep dive into the challenges, surprises, and rewards of mobile ham radio installation as Todd shares his recent experience mounting a Yaesu FT-510 in his Jeep Wrangler. The journey wasn't without its hurdles. From deciding on the perfect antenna placement to p…

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Radio Rebels Plan Epic 24-Hour POTA Event 1:49:37

3M ago1:49:37

1:49:37

Picture this: a stunning sunset view from 13,000 feet, radio in hand, making contacts while floating gently down to Earth. That's exactly what Paul (N1OG) experienced during his milestone 50th skydive, bringing together his twin passions of ham radio and skydiving in spectacular fashion. In this episode, we dive deep into planning our upcoming 24-h…

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Golden Tickets and Gatekeeping: Reimagining Ham Radio's Entry Path 3:22:35

3M ago3:22:35

3:22:35

What if we could completely redesign the ham radio licensing system? This question sparks one of our most energetic discussions yet as we explore the gap between passing exams and becoming effective operators. Todd doesn't hold back, challenging the relevance of technical questions that rarely impact day-to-day operating. "There are questions on th…

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Evolving the Airwaves: What Ham Radio Could Become 2:00:02

4M ago2:00:02

2:00:02

What if your ham radio could seamlessly connect to any Bluetooth device? Imagine a rig that automatically finds local repeaters as you drive across state lines, or logs that standardize into one universal format instead of multiple competing systems. In this thought-provoking episode, we tackle the technology gap in amateur radio and explore how ma…

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Band Pass Filters and Bureaucracy: Field Day's Identity Crisis 1:48:55

4M ago1:48:55

1:48:55

The lines between ham radio's traditional Field Day and the increasingly popular Parks on the Air program are blurring, prompting a thoughtful examination of what truly matters in our hobby. As operators pack their POTA bags weekly for activations, does the annual emergency preparedness exercise of Field Day still serve its intended purpose? This e…

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Back to Broadcasting: Reflections on Two Years of Live Free in Ham 1:20:17

4M ago1:20:17

1:20:17

We're back on the air after a brief hiatus, fired up and ready to reconnect with our Live Free in Ham community as we celebrate an incredible milestone – two years of podcasting! The chemistry between hosts Eric, Todd, and Paul lights up this anniversary episode with authentic conversation that weaves through recent ham radio adventures. Paul share…

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Live Stream - Live Free and Ham 500 Subscriber Live Stream! 3:15:48

4M ago3:15:48

3:15:48

Celebrate with us as we mark 500 YouTube subscribers in this special livestream packed with giveaways, technical discussions, and the authentic ham radio camaraderie that defines Live Free and Ham. The conversation opens with Paul sharing his exhilarating journey into skydiving as he prepares for the Independence and Legends Boogie at his local dro…

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We Just Hit Record and Let It Fly: A Different Kind of Episode 2:09:54

4M ago2:09:54

2:09:54

What happens when three ham radio operators just hit record without a plan? This episode offers a rare, unfiltered glimpse into the authentic conversations that take place when the formalities drop and operators simply talk about what's on their minds. From the opening moments when we admit "it's been a rough week, so we just kind of press the reco…

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Skip This If You Hate Fun: A CB Radio Revival 2:25:04

4M ago2:25:04

2:25:04

Have you ever dismissed CB radio as just a relic of 1970s culture? This episode might change your mind completely. We welcome Walt K4OGM from Coastal Waves and Wires to challenge our preconceptions and build a bridge between two radio communities that have been divided for too long. Walt takes us on a fascinating journey through the modern world of…

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Airwave Doppelgängers: When Your Radio Twin Lives in Another State 2:38:10

5M ago2:38:10

2:38:10

When two ham radio podcasts collide, the airwaves crackle with twice the energy! This special episode brings together the Live Free and Ham crew with the team from Everyday Ham in a crossover that reveals surprising parallels between these two groups of passionate radio operators. What started as a casual conversation quickly evolved into a fascina…

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When Ham Radio Operators Jump Out of Perfectly Good Airplanes 2:05:03

5M ago2:05:03

2:05:03

Dive into the unexpected convergence of amateur radio and skydiving as co-host Paul (N1OG) shares his journey toward skydiving certification. With 23 jumps completed, Paul recounts a hair-raising experience navigating unexpected wind conditions that forced a landing between hangars, resulting in a parachute repair. His candid reflections reveal a s…

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The Great Ham Radio Slumber Party: 24 Hours of POTA Madness 1:18:06

5M ago1:18:06

1:18:06

What happens when three passionate ham radio operators decide to make history with the first-ever 24-hour Parks On The Air activation? The Live Free and Ham crew unveils their ambitious plans for a September 2025 event at Greenfield State Park that promises to combine radio operation, camping, community building, and possibly even fundraising for h…

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Ask us Anything! - Live Stream 2:36:30

5M ago2:36:30

2:36:30

Join the Live Free and Ham crew for their first-ever no-holds-barred Ask Me Anything session that takes unexpected turns while delivering genuine ham radio insights. From the sublime to the ridiculous, nothing is off-limits as the guys field questions from their live audience. The conversation kicks off with Paul sharing breathtaking stories from h…

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Queens of the Mountain 2:05:05

5M ago2:05:05

2:05:05

Ever wondered what happens when passionate female ham radio operators take to mountain peaks? This episode takes you on an unforgettable journey into the world of Summits on the Air (SOTA) with two extraordinary guests - Amy AG7GP and Paula K9IR, founders of the "Queens of the Mountain" event. Amy shares her transformation from a novice carrying 25…

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Wings Unfurled: The Making of a Parachute Jesus 1:59:52

6M ago1:59:52

1:59:52

What happens when a ham radio enthusiast decides to leap from 14,000 feet? Our own Paul (N1OG "The Grouch") takes us on an extraordinary journey from New Hampshire to the skies above Illinois in pursuit of his skydiving A license. The adventure begins with Paul's meticulous planning and a cross-country road trip towing his 30-foot camper through re…

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Booth Babes and Radio Waves: Our NEARFest Adventure 1:10:03

6M ago1:10:03

1:10:03

Grab your radio gear and join us as we dive into Ham Fest season! This episode captures our fresh, unfiltered thoughts about Near Fest and the broader landscape of amateur radio gatherings in New England. After attending the spring Near Fest event, we share a candid assessment of what worked, what didn't, and what could transform these events for t…

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From Pockets to Packs: The Essential EDC Guide for Radio Operators 1:55:08

6M ago1:55:08

1:55:08

What's in your pockets right now? That simple question reveals volumes about how prepared you are for life's unexpected moments. In this captivating deep-dive into Everyday Carry (EDC), we explore the practical philosophy behind the tools and gear that accompany us through daily life. Paul, our resident EDC expert, unpacks his meticulously curated …

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Grouch Mobile Command: Live from Nearfest 2:30:40

6M ago2:30:40

2:30:40

Have you ever wondered what really happens when ham radio operators gather at hamfests? In this special live episode, we pull back the curtain on ham radio culture as we broadcast directly from our campsite at Nearfest Spring 2025. Nestled in the "Grouch Mobile Command" (Paul's camper) with rain pattering on the tent, our full crew shares the day's…

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Ham Radio Unplugged: A Candid Chat with the Grouch and General 2:04:48

6M ago2:04:48

2:04:48

The challenging Support Your Parks Weekend takes center stage as Paul shares his determined four-hour activation that yielded just 28 contacts amidst frustrating band conditions. With wind whipping his EZ-Up shelter and sporadic propagation, his story perfectly captures the resilience that defines our hobby. Meanwhile, Todd's experiences with repea…

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Ham-Famous: The Ridiculous Reality of Minor Celebrity 1:35:40

7M ago1:35:40

1:35:40

When a listener submitted "How your lives have changed now that you're famous content creators" as a topic, we couldn't help but laugh—while simultaneously feeling a curious mix of humility and quiet appreciation. Truth is, none of us started this journey seeking any sort of recognition, yet here we are, two years later, occasionally being approach…

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Robert's Rules Are Destroying Your Club's Appeal To New Hams 2:09:19

7M ago2:09:19

2:09:19

What happens when three opinionated ham radio operators tackle the contentious topic of club business meetings? Fireworks, that's what! In this episode, we dive deep into a debate that's been dividing ham clubs for decades: how much time and energy should be devoted to formal business proceedings versus creating engaging, interactive experiences fo…

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Who Needs Robert's Rules When You Have Hillbillies with Microphones? 2:02:14

7M ago2:02:14

2:02:14

Have you ever felt that traditional ham radio clubs were missing something crucial – the actual fun of getting on the air? You're not alone. In this episode, we're joined by the founding members of the Hillbilly Hams Amateur Radio Club, a group that decided to create their own radio community when existing clubs felt too formal and business-oriente…

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Geocities Called, They Want Their Ham Radio Website Back 2:37:15

7M ago2:37:15

2:37:15

Why are ham radio club websites stuck in the digital dark ages, and what impact does this have on attracting new operators to the hobby? In this eye-opening episode, we evaluate real amateur radio club websites, exposing the good, the bad, and the downright embarrassing approaches clubs take to their online presence. Drawing from our extensive revi…

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From Registration to Activation: Your Complete POTA Journey 1:50:59

7M ago1:50:59

1:50:59

Curious about Parks on the Air but not sure where to start? This episode takes you through the complete POTA experience, from initial registration to successful activation and everything in between. We begin by explaining how to create your account on the POTA website and why it's worth doing even if you've never activated a park. Many operators ar…

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Live Stream - Awaiting Justice: Family, Hammily we all love our brothers no matter there license class 1:34:22

8M ago1:34:22

1:34:22

We put ham radio gatekeeping on trial in this special "Ham Court" episode, examining whether license class should determine participation opportunities within the hobby. The mock trial centers on Randy, who earned his Extra license but felt excluded by his brother Shane until reaching this milestone. • Live Free and Ham's storefront offers whiskey …

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"Your Operating Position Will Change": Expert Insights on Setting Up a Ham Radio Station 1:53:47

8M ago1:53:47

1:53:47

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 conversa…

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Johnny Five Needs Juice: Ham Radio's Battery Revolution 2:06:27

8M ago2:06:27

2:06:27

Batteries are the lifeblood of ham radio operations, enabling everything from portable field activations to emergency communications when the grid goes down. The Live Free in Ham hosts share their extensive experience with different battery solutions, maintenance techniques, and custom builds to help listeners make informed choices about powering t…

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The Art of Repeater Debate and Community Connection 2:01:20

8M ago2:01:20

2:01:20

Repeaters are not dying; they are full of potential for vibrant conversation and community engagement. The episode delves into how ham radio operators can revitalize these communication hubs by throwing out their call signs, starting conversations, and participating in local nets. We discuss the relevance of repeaters in modern ham radio and the co…

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Exploring the Cold: Ham Radio Challenges and Solutions 1:32:47

8M ago1:32:47

1:32:47

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 th…

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Live Show - POTA PARTY 2025 Live Event- International Women's Day 1:30:13

8M ago1:30:13

1:30:13

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 storie…

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Ham Radio Innovations and the Call for Change 1:50:06

9M ago1:50:06

1:50:06

The latest episode dives deep into the ARRL's controversial leadership and the need for significant reform within the organization. The hosts discuss budget allocations, exorbitant salaries, and the importance of transparency, urging a shift in focus toward youth programs and modernizing technology. They challenge listeners to consider what changes…

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Club Memberships and ARRL in the Ham World - is it worth the $$ 2:16:53

9M ago2:16:53

2:16:53

This episode dives into the essential role of memberships in the ham radio community, focusing on organizations like ARRL and their recent shifts in cost versus value. Personal experiences and listener feedback underscore the importance of transparency and benefits. Members have a right to ask: Are we truly getting our worth? Key points discussed i…

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Top Five POTA Hacks - Elevate your POTA Experience 1:48:25

9M ago1:48:25

1:48:25

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 i…

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From Global Contacts to Local Nets: A Ham Journey 1:35:33

9M ago1:35:33

1:35:33

Experience the camaraderie and passion that fuel the Granite State Amateur Radio Association, as we share personal anecdotes and Ralph's remarkable six-decade journey in the world of radio. Discover how our nightly nets have become a community cornerstone, fostering connections and offering a platform for members to overcome microphone shyness and …

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Live Show - Power Couples of Ham Radio 2:04:51

10M ago2:04:51

2:04:51

We invited the two most prominent ham radio couples to share their inspiring experiences in the ham radio hobby. Discover how they harmoniously balance their passion for radio, their marriage, and the joy of working together in the ham radio shack. If you haven't subscribed to their channels yet, check them out! Whether activating a park or just en…

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Journey Beyond the Cold: Thriving in Winter Field Day 1:56:08

10M ago1:56:08

1:56:08

Ever wondered how to thrive in the harshest winter conditions while mastering the art of communication? Join us on the Live Free in Ham podcast as we unlock the secrets of Winter Field Day 2025 with esteemed guests Mike W4OPS and Marvin W0MET. These seasoned officials share insider insights and innovative rule changes designed to enhance your parti…

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From Old Laptops to High-Tech Ham Radio 1:58:06

10M ago1:58:06

1:58:06

What happens when technology meets ham radio, and humor sneaks into the mix? This week on "Live Free and Ham," we kick off with our first piece of negative feedback, humorously revealed to be from our own team member, The Grouch. Tune in for chuckles and insights as we tackle topics from reactive power to the Q factor in electronics. With a light-h…

Live Free And Ham Pod Podcasts