Best Hamradio Podcasts (2025)

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

Play Pause

4d 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

11d 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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Episode 527 Ron Demcko WA2TBQ 1:14:46

14d ago1:14:46

1:14:46

Ron Demcko, WA2TBQ, found his way into electronics—and later amateur radio—thanks to the early influence of his older brother, John, KD7JR. From a young age, Ron funded his growing passion for kit building and radio experimentation by buying and reselling surplus electronic gear, a resourceful start that helped pave the way for his formal education…

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

18d 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

25d 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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Episode 526 Bob Pantazes W2ARP 58:50

27d ago58:50

58:50

Bob Pantazes, W2ARP, discovered amateur radio in high school but only became licensed at age 40. A career in electronics shaped his hands-on approach to amateur radio. With 296 DXCC entities, Bob is active in contesting, POTA - Parks on the Air, and antenna building. He advocates FT8 access for Technicians on HF to attract younger hams and grow our…

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

28d 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

1M 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

1M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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

2M 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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Episode 525 Jack Prindle AB4WS 1:20:48

3M ago1:20:48

1:20:48

In the QSO Today podcast episode #525, host Eric Guth interviews Jack Prindle, a former law enforcement officer and amateur radio enthusiast, who shares his unique journey from his early electronics background in Kentucky to his distinguished police career, ultimately specializing in computer forensics. Jack, who obtained his amateur radio license …

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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

3M 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

4M 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? 2:02:13

4M ago2:02:13

2:02:13

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

4M 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

4M 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

5M 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

5M 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

5M 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

5M 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

5M 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

5M 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

5M 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

6M 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

6M 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

6M 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 2:04:50

6M ago2:04:50

2:04:50

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

6M 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

7M 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…

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Adventures in Ham Radio and Storytelling 1:39:38

7M ago1:39:38

1:39:38

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 p…

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Revolutionizing Radio Exams with Signal Stuff and HamStudy 2:01:06

7M ago2:01:06

2:01:06

Ever wondered how Zener diodes and NOR gates can spark both humor and learning? Join us as we explore the fascinating world of ham radio with special guests Richard and Ben from Signal Stuff. Our conversation kicks off with Todd's journey towards his extra class license exam, tackling tricky questions with the help of Eric, Ben, and Richard, leadin…

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Live Show - The Hilarious Chaos of the Annual Shack Roast 3:34:23

7M ago3:34:23

3:34:23

Ever wondered what kind of quirks and creativity hide behind the doors of ham radio enthusiasts? Join us for a jam-packed episode where we kick off the first annual shack roast event, celebrating the unique and sometimes hilariously cluttered setups of our community members. From Russ's scented candles and framed FCC licenses to Keith's retro libra…

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"Shackin' off" - the evolution of the Ham Radio Shack 1:48:47

7M ago1:48:47

1:48:47

Ever wondered how a parked truck can become a hub of communication and joy? Join us in this episode as we share our journey of integrating ham radio setups into everyday life, filled with personal stories of trials, triumphs, and the occasional humor when technology meets non-tech-savvy assistants. From the quirks of running coaxial cables in a veh…

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Staying Linked When Winter Hits Hard 1:36:36

8M ago1:36:36

1:36:36

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…

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Live Show - What we think is in store for Ham Radio in 2025? 2:43:11

8M ago2:43:11

2:43:11

Hey everyone! It's time for another Monthly livestream with the LFH Boys! The holiday season is just around the corner, and instead of our usual "Black Friday" show, we thought it would be fun to chat about our predictions for the 2025 season. We’d love for you to join us and share your thoughts, too! So come hang out—it's going to be a great time!…

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The Thrill of the Jump and the Joy of Radio 1:37:00

8M ago1:37:00

1:37:00

What happens when you mix ham radio with skydiving? Paul's recent leap from 10,500 feet might just answer that question, offering an exhilarating twist to our Support Your Parks Weekend recap. We also highlight the adventures of our Granite State Amateur Radio Club members, who turned a camping trip at Bear Brook Pavilion into a lively ham radio ev…

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Episode 524 Pete Corp WA2JMG 1:07:55

9M ago1:07:55

1:07:55

Charles “Pete” Corp, WA2JMG, operates simple rigs into wire antennas, using low power. His primary operating mode is ragchewing on CW for meaningful and reliable communications. At the urging of his grandfather, Pete pursued the power system management side of electrical engineering side of his four year degree as a way to satisfy the market demand…

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From Missteps to Mastery: Ham Radio’s Community Impact 1:36:52

9M ago1:36:52

1:36:52

Ever wondered how a mix-up with your call sign could lead to unexpected hilarity? Join us on our latest episode of the Live Free and Ham podcast as we unravel the chaos of our recent call sign debacle, all while staying on track with crucial updates about emergency communication readiness post-hurricane. We're doubling down on preparedness for ham …

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Episode 523 Ron Taylor WA7GIL 1:07:18

9M ago1:07:18

1:07:18

Ron Taylor WA7GIL, while having a love for HF CW, boat anchor restoration, and kit building, still stays current with home brew equipment using Arduino controllers, the latest ham radio software, and the NanoVNA. His beautiful ham shack and carefully appointed workbench and parts inventory allow Ron to build and fix just about anything. WA7GIL is m…

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Episode 522 Cathy Goodrich W4CMG 1:04:54

9M ago1:04:54

1:04:54

Cathy Goodrich, W4CMG, is an enthusiastic contester and dedicated DX chaser. Known for her meticulous scheduling, Cathy ensures she dedicates time each day to amateur radio, honing her operating techniques and CW rag chewing skills. In her retirement, Cathy continues to make an impact as a Red Cross Coordinator in Nashville, TN, applying strategic …

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Live Show - Ham Radio Can Be Scary? 1:10:28

9M ago1:10:28

1:10:28

It's another live show where our band of brothers gathers once again for a Live Stream on Live Free and Ham. Since we’re nearing Halloween, we might take some liberties and dress up! Regardless, we will be discussing our "haunting ham radio stories," including the failures we've encountered on our ham radio journey. Leave us a Review via Text Messa…