Best Live Free and Ham Pod Podcasts (2025)

1
Ask us Anything! - Live Stream 2:36:30

21h 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…

1
Queens of the Mountain 2:05:05

4d 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…

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

11d 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…

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

18d 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…

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

25d 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 …

1
Grouch Mobile Command: Live from Nearfest 2:30:40

27d 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…

1
Ham Radio Unplugged: A Candid Chat with the Grouch and General 2:04:48

1M 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…

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

1M 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…

1
Robert's Rules Are Destroying Your Club's Appeal To New Hams 2:09:19

2M 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…

1
Who Needs Robert's Rules When You Have Hillbillies with Microphones? 2:02:13

2M 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…

1
Geocities Called, They Want Their Ham Radio Website Back 2:37:15

2M 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…

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

2M 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…

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

2M 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 …

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

2M 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…

1
Johnny Five Needs Juice: Ham Radio's Battery Revolution 2:06:27

3M 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…

1
The Art of Repeater Debate and Community Connection 2:01:20

3M 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…

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

3M 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…

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

3M 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…

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

3M 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…

1
Club Memberships and ARRL in the Ham World - is it worth the $$ 2:16:53

4M 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…

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

4M 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…

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

4M 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 …

1
Live Show - Power Couples of Ham Radio 2:04:50

4M 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…

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

4M 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…

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

5M 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…

1
Adventures in Ham Radio and Storytelling 1:39:38

5M 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…

1
Revolutionizing Radio Exams with Signal Stuff and HamStudy 2:01:06

5M 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…

1
Live Show - The Hilarious Chaos of the Annual Shack Roast 3:34:23

5M 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…

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

5M 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…

1
Staying Linked When Winter Hits Hard 1:36:36

6M 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…

1
Live Show - What we think is in store for Ham Radio in 2025? 2:43:11

6M 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!…

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

6M 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…

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

7M 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 …

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

7M 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…

1
Marco? Polo? HamRS? - That doesn't seem right. 1:22:44

7M ago1:22:44

1:22:44

Are you curious about the latest buzz in the world of ham radio? Tune into this episode of Live Free and Ham, where Eric (N1JUR), Paul (N1OG), and Todd (W1STJ) reveal some thrilling updates, from brand-new merchandise to a gravity-defying event with a commemorative shirt up for grabs. Say goodbye to paper logs and hello to digital efficiency. We're…

1
Blending Tech with Passion: The Intersection of Linux and Ham Radio 1:41:56

8M ago1:41:56

1:41:56

Unlock the secrets of blending technology with passion as we welcome special guests Cheryl W5MOO, Russ K5TUX, and Bill from the "Linux in the Ham Shack" podcast. With a unique mix of insights on integrating Linux and amateur radio, this episode promises to enlighten and entertain. Cheryl's unique journey, marked by a persistent nudge from Russ over…

1
Celebrating Community and Overcoming Challenges in the Ham Radio World 1:41:24

8M ago1:41:24

1:41:24

What happens when you mix ham radio, community spirit, and a bit of technical know-how? On this episode of Live Free in Ham, we promise an insider's look at all things ham radio, from protecting our precious 900 MHz band to celebrating the triumphs of a recent ham radio event. We'll kick off with crucial updates on our online store and the power of…

1
Live Show - 5? What does it Mean? 1:32:05

8M ago1:32:05

1:32:05

Ever wondered how a simple number can hold so much significance? Join us on "Live Free in Ham" as Eric teases the intriguing relevance of the number five while Mike N2MAK recounts his recent ham radio adventures, including a solder burn and a successful Parks on the Air activation. Paul delves into his week in video editing and making contacts, and…

1
The Evolution of Ham Radio: Balancing Tradition with Technological Advancements 1:32:11

9M ago1:32:11

1:32:11

Ever wondered how ham radio technology is evolving with the times? Join us on Live Free in Ham as we navigate the intriguing blend of traditional skills and modern advancements in the ham radio world. Alongside hosts Eric (N1JUR), Paul (N1OG), and Todd (W1STJ), we share the excitement of Todd's recent license upgrade, explore his adventurous activa…

1
Radio Waves and Road Trips: Merging Ham Radio with Vacation Adventures 1:01:52

9M ago1:01:52

1:01:52

Ever wondered how ham radio can add a spark to your travels? Join us in this episode of Live Free and Ham as we share how we seamlessly blend our love for ham radio with our vacation adventures. Hear the hilarious story of Paul (N1OG) being recognized at a local club meeting by Keith Chopler (AC1RH). We also give a nod to dedicated listeners like K…

1
Rare Contacts and New Adventures in Digital Ham Radio 1:06:30

9M ago1:06:30

1:06:30

Ever wondered how digital modes can revolutionize your ham radio experience? From transforming skeptical operators into digital enthusiasts to making rare contacts even in poor band conditions, we'll show you the magic behind FT8, JS8Call, and more. Tune in to hear our personal journeys, technical challenges, and the unique joys of integrating hobb…

1
Getting Ready for Ham X with Mark from Halibut Electronic - Live Stream 1:11:33

10M ago1:11:33

1:11:33

We invite Mark from Halibut Electronics to discuss the updates to Eggnogs and other cool stuff from Halibut. He will also prepare for visits to Huntsville and HamX in the Northeast! #HAMX #lfh YouTube Live Steam Link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3zdszh7M-f0 Halibut Electronics https://electronics.halibut.com/ HamXposition: https://hamxposition.o…

1
Mobile Signals: Ham Radio Meets Modern Cars 1:02:33

10M ago1:02:33

1:02:33

Ever wondered why you can't control your ham radio through your car's infotainment system? We'll explore this and much more in this engaging episode of Live Free and Ham! We'll kick things off by catching up on the latest happenings, including Todd's wild baseball weekend and the memorable chaos brought about by the Hammered Clubhouse. Plus, check …

1
Live Show - We'll there goes the neighborhood 57:55

10M ago57:55

57:55

Our decision to use our YT Channel as an Airbnb rental has backfired, as our current tenants seem to have become somewhat comfortable and are reluctant to leave. Be sure to head to the Ham Radio Clubhouse and see what we left at their doorstep. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AmQPo-XYM3U Leave us a Review via Text Message! Support the show //******…

1
Exploring the Wild: Activating Parks and Wildlife Preserves for POTA Adventures 1:13:25

10M ago1:13:25

1:13:25

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, …

1
Every Pot will have one - LIDS and Net Controls how to navigate the airwaves 59:55

11M ago59:55

59:55

Ever had a relaxing beach vacation interrupted by a sudden 60 mph gust of wind while you're trying to operate your ham radio? This week on Live Free and Ham, we recount our family trip to North Carolina, balancing leisure and our passion for Parks on the Air (POTA) activations. Alongside our travel tales, Todd shares his ongoing battle with a rotti…

1
Navigating Solar Activity in the Ham Radio World 1:17:21

11M ago1:17:21

1:17:21

Ever wondered how solar storms can impact your ham radio contacts? Join Eric (N1JUR), Paul (N1OG), and Todd (W1STJ) as we explore the thrilling and sometimes frustrating world of ham radio propagation. We'll break down the intricacies of the solar cycle and how it influences your radio experiences, plus share exciting plans for the upcoming Field D…

1
Uncovering the Joys and Challenges of Ham Radio Field Days 1:23:35

12M ago1:23:35

1:23:35

Ready to unlock the secrets to a successful ARL Field Day? Join us as Eric (N1JUR) and Todd (W1STJ) bring you the latest updates and behind-the-scenes preparations for one of the most anticipated events in the amateur radio calendar. From new shirt designs in our storefront to a handy feature for leaving reviews via SMS, we have an exciting lineup …

1
Live Show - Its been one year of Live Free and Ham Anniversary Show 1:13:03

12M ago1:13:03

1:13:03

Yes, it's hard to believe it's been over a year since we started this journey. We're incredibly grateful for all the support and love we've received. We're thrilled to announce that we'll be hosting a special live-stream show to commemorate this milestone. Not only that, but we've also reached out to some of our talented YouTube friends to join us …

1
Waves of Wisdom: Building or buying the Ultimate HF Amateur Radio Experience 1:17:50

12M ago1:17:50

1:17:50

Discover the vibrant world of HF radios and join us, Eric N1JUR, Paul N1OG, and Todd W1STJ, as we guide you through the options for both the ham radio newbie and the seasoned operator. From our new "Do Good" segment celebrating ham radio community contributions to Todd's gripping journey towards his extra class license, this episode is a treasure t…

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