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Prepping Academy

Education Podcasts

The Prepping Academy Radio Show is a live broadcast aimed at discussing various topics related to prepping, survival, and self-reliance, while also serving as a platform for preppers to unite. Our ultimate objective at The Prepping Academy Radio Show is to broaden your perspectives and inspire you to take action, as we strongly believe that preparedness is of the essence. We welcome preppers of all levels to join us on preppingacademy.com and PrepperNet.com.

Location:

Charlotte, NC

Description:

The Prepping Academy Radio Show is a live broadcast aimed at discussing various topics related to prepping, survival, and self-reliance, while also serving as a platform for preppers to unite. Our ultimate objective at The Prepping Academy Radio Show is to broaden your perspectives and inspire you to take action, as we strongly believe that preparedness is of the essence. We welcome preppers of all levels to join us on preppingacademy.com and PrepperNet.com.

Language:

English

Contact:

7049530777


Episodes
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Your Car Is Spying on You

12/4/2025
Send us a text Your Car Is Spying on You In this episode of The Privacy & Freedom Podcast, Forrest Garvin exposes a truth most people never consider — your car is one of the most powerful surveillance devices you own. From built-in GPS trackers and microphones to data-sharing apps and telematics, modern vehicles quietly collect your movements, contacts, driving habits, and even conversations. Forrest breaks down how automakers, insurers, and tech partners harvest massive amounts of personal data every time you start the engine. He explains how this information is sold, traded, and stored — creating a complete digital dossier of your life behind the wheel. Most drivers have no idea their car knows where they sleep, work, and worship… and who’s in the passenger seat. You’ll also discover practical steps to reduce exposure — from disabling unnecessary connections and removing old paired phones, to deleting stored navigation data and limiting app permissions. Forrest introduces Privacy4Cars, a powerful tool designed to help you erase personal information from your vehicle before it’s sold, rented, or serviced. At Garvin Academy, Forrest teaches how to defend every part of your digital life — not just your phone or laptop, but the hidden technologies tracking you every day. Because privacy and security are freedom, and protecting that freedom starts with awareness and action. SEO Keywords car privacy, vehicle data tracking, Privacy4Cars, connected cars, automotive surveillance, Forrest Garvin, Garvin Academy, car data deletion, telematics privacy, digital security, car hacking, data collection, online privacy, disappear on the internet, privacy and security, personal freedom Take back control of your online privacy with Proton Mail, the world’s most trusted encrypted email service. Built in Switzerland and protected by some of the world’s strongest privacy laws, Proton Mail ensures your data stays yours—always. Proton Mail – Secure Email That Protects Your Privacy (60% OFF) FREE Webinars: Seating is limited, so reserve your spot now! Dissappear On the Internet Crypto Digital Assets Course Gain Freedom with a Home-Based Business Daily deals for pre Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.net PrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins. PrepperNet Support the show Please give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Daily deals for preppers, survivalists, off-gridders, homesteaders https://prepperfinds.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRT www.forrestgarvin.com

Duration:00:22:19

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Grid Down Comms Up Holiday Gift Podcast

11/26/2025
Send us a text In today's episode, Patrick with Grid Down Comms Up lists some of his favorite prepper Christmas gifts. If you are looking for a present for your significant other, children, mag group member, or anyone else on your gift list, there is something here for you! We focus on practical gifts that have real value, whether the grid is up or the world has come crashing down. From books to power tools, precious metals, and beyond, the perfect gift idea of the prepper in your life awaits. https://www.amazon.com/shop/preppernet Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.net PrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins. PrepperNet Support the show Please give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Daily deals for preppers, survivalists, off-gridders, homesteaders https://prepperfinds.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRT www.forrestgarvin.com

Duration:00:23:58

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A Spy Christmas – Privacy & Security Gift Guide - Black Friday

11/25/2025
Send us a text This special “Spy Christmas” episode is your complete holiday guide to the best privacy, security, and spy-themed gear of the year. Forrest breaks down over 30 hand-picked tools and gadgets for anyone who loves preparedness, digital security, or covert everyday carry. Whether you’re protecting your home, securing your digital life, or shopping for the privacy-minded person in your life, this episode is packed with practical, real-world recommendations. You’ll discover the top spy gadgets, concealed-carry tools, covert recording devices, encrypted communication apps, travel privacy gear, anti-tracking tools, RFID protection, secure storage devices, and must-have digital privacy products that every modern prepper should own. Forrest also highlights the best items for off-grid communication, emergency preparedness, home surveillance defense, bug-out bags, and stealth everyday carry. From affordable stocking stuffers to high-end gear used by privacy professionals, this episode is the ultimate Christmas gift guide for preppers, homesteaders, travelers, security enthusiasts, and anyone serious about protecting their identity, assets, and communications. If you’re ready to upgrade your personal security or help someone else stay safe and unseen, this is the one episode you don’t want to miss. spy gear, spy gadgets, privacy tools, security gadgets, digital privacy, personal security, surveillance protection, anti-surveillance gear, covert gadgets, encrypted communication, RFID blocking gear, anti-tracking devices, cybersecurity tools, digital identity protection, home security devices, EDC gear, prepper gear, off-grid communication tools, emergency preparedness gear, Christmas gift guide https://prepperfinds.com/blackfriday/ Get the list at: PrepperFinds.com Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.net PrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins. PrepperNet Support the show Please give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Daily deals for preppers, survivalists, off-gridders, homesteaders https://prepperfinds.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRT www.forrestgarvin.com

Duration:01:17:13

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Having the Privacy Mindset

11/20/2025
Send us a text Having the Privacy Mindset In this episode of The Privacy & Freedom Podcast, Forrest Garvin dives into the foundation of digital privacy — the mindset. Before you install a VPN, delete social accounts, or buy a Faraday bag, you must first understand how to think privately in a world built to watch you. Forrest explains why true privacy starts with awareness, discipline, and intention — not gadgets. He exposes how corporations, governments, and data brokers profit from your every click, and why reclaiming control isn’t paranoia — it’s freedom. You’ll learn how to shift from convenience-driven habits to privacy-driven decisions that protect your identity, assets, and peace of mind. This episode explores the psychology behind privacy — how our digital behavior reveals who we are, and how adopting a “privacy mindset” helps you take back power over your data, your finances, and your future. Forrest shows that privacy and security are not optional anymore; they are acts of freedom and the first step toward real independence. At Garvin Academy, Forrest teaches these principles in depth through his flagship course, Disappear on the Internet — a 25-hour masterclass that helps people just like you separate their real life from their digital footprint. Because when it comes to modern freedom, privacy isn’t a luxury… it’s survival. Listen now to learn how to build your privacy mindset — and why privacy and security are freedom, not fear. SEO Keywords privacy mindset, digital privacy, online security, Forrest Garvin, Garvin Academy, data protection, personal freedom, anonymous living, privacy and security, digital footprint, online surveillance, privacy awareness, privacy course, disappear on the internet Take back control of your online privacy with Proton Mail, the world’s most trusted encrypted email service. Built in Switzerland and protected by some of the world’s strongest privacy laws, Proton Mail ensures your data stays yours—always. Proton Mail – Secure Email That Protects Your Privacy (60% OFF) FREE Webinars: Seating is limited, so reserve your spot now! Dissappear On the Internet Crypto Digital Assets Course Gain Free Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.net PrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins. PrepperNet Support the show Please give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Daily deals for preppers, survivalists, off-gridders, homesteaders https://prepperfinds.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRT www.forrestgarvin.com

Duration:00:26:21

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VPNs Explained – The First Line of Defense for Online Privacy

11/13/2025
Send us a text Podcast Summary – Prepping Academy Podcast: “VPNs Explained – The First Line of Defense for Online Privacy” In this powerful episode of The Prepping Academy Podcast, host Forrest Garvin exposes the truth about VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) — what they really do, how they work, and which ones you can actually trust. As online tracking, censorship, and surveillance continue to rise, using a VPN has become a critical step in protecting your privacy, security, and freedom online. Forrest breaks down how VPNs encrypt your data, hide your location, and shield your digital activity from hackers, corporations, and even your internet provider. You’ll discover the top VPNs for privacy, the red flags to avoid, and why many “free” VPNs are more dangerous than helpful. Plus, he shares insider tips on using VPNs with your smartphones, routers, and streaming devices for complete protection. If you value anonymity, freedom, and security in a connected world, this episode is a must-listen. Learn how to stay invisible online — the right way. Keywords: VPN, online privacy, cybersecurity, data protection, internet security, best VPNs 2025, anonymity online, PrepperNet, Prepping Academy Podcast, Forrest Garvin. FREE Webinars: Seating is limited, so reserve your spot now! Dissappear On the Internet Crypto Digital Assets Course Gain Freedom with a Home-Based Business Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.net PrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins. PrepperNet Support the show Please give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Daily deals for preppers, survivalists, off-gridders, homesteaders https://prepperfinds.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRT www.forrestgarvin.com

Duration:00:33:10

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The Truth About Internet Browsers

11/6/2025
Podcast Summary – Prepping Academy Podcast: “The Truth About Internet Browsers – Which Ones Keep You Safe?” In this episode of The Prepping Academy Podcast, host Forrest Garvin breaks down one of the most overlooked areas of online privacy — your internet browser. Every click, search, and website visit leaves a digital trail, and your browser is often the biggest source of data collection, tracking, and surveillance. Forrest compares the most popular browsers — Chrome, Firefox, Brave, Edge, and DuckDuckGo — revealing which ones spy on you, which actually protect your privacy, and how to configure your browser for maximum anonymity. You’ll learn about browser fingerprinting, private search engines, extensions that protect your data, and the crucial settings every prepper and privacy-minded American should change today. If you care about staying private online, blocking trackers, and avoiding Big Tech surveillance, this episode is packed with practical, easy-to-follow advice. Don’t miss this deep dive into the tools that keep your digital footprint off the grid. Keywords: private browsers, privacy tools, online security, browser tracking, DuckDuckGo, Brave browser, digital privacy, PrepperNet, Prepping Academy Podcast, Forrest Garvin. FREE Webinars: Seating is limited, so reserve your spot now! Dissappear On the Internet Crypto Digital Assets Course Gain Freedom with a Home-Based Business Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.net PrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins. PrepperNet Support the show Please give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Daily deals for preppers, survivalists, off-gridders, homesteaders & everyday Americans. The best gear & supplies—posted in one place, every day Check out https://prepperfinds.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRT www.forrestgarvin.com

Duration:00:31:00

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Data Breaches & Hacks Update – Protecting Your Digital Life

10/30/2025
Podcast Summary – Prepping Academy Podcast: “Data Breaches & Hacks Update – Protecting Your Digital Life” In this week’s episode of The Prepping Academy Podcast, we dive deep into the world of data breaches, cyberattacks, and online privacy — and what you can do right now to protect yourself. From the latest major corporate hacks to the quiet data leaks that expose your personal information on the dark web, we break down the biggest threats of 2025 and how they impact preppers, patriots, and everyday Americans. Host Forrest Garvin, founder of PrepperNet and cybersecurity expert, shares real-world updates on the most recent U.S. data breaches, the tactics hackers are using today, and why even “secure” companies are falling victim. You’ll learn the top five steps to safeguard your identity, prevent tracking, and lock down your devices before it’s too late. If you value your privacy, your freedom, and your digital security, this episode is a must-listen. Don’t miss the essential tools and strategies every prepper should have in place to stay anonymous, secure, and one step ahead of the next cyber threat. Keywords: data breaches 2025, cybersecurity, online privacy, hacking updates, PrepperNet, Prepping Academy Podcast, digital security, identity protection, personal data leaks, Forrest Garvin. FREE Webinars: Seating is limited, so reserve your spot now! Dissappear On the Internet Crypto Digital Assets Course Gain Freedom with a Home-Based Business Support the show Please give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Daily deals for preppers, survivalists, off-gridders, homesteaders & everyday Americans. The best gear & supplies—posted in one place, every day Check out https://prepperfinds.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRT www.forrestgarvin.com

Duration:00:32:45

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Radio Interference - Patrick with Grid Down Comms Up

9/25/2025
Today, Grid Down Comms Up takes the microphone again for another great episode of the Prepping Academy. We do a short after-action report on the Eastern Tennessee Homestead Alliance festival, revisit a few items as we approach the one-year anniversary of the historic disaster caused by Hurricane Helene, and talk about radio and communications interference. We look at the common types of manmade interference and what you can do to ensure you aren't the cause, because making lots of people look for you isn't very gray man. We also discuss what you may want to consider adding to your plans if you experience intentional interference during an emergency. We also listened to an example of interference during my time in Eastern Tennessee with GSM and a much more entertaining example of some amateur operators trolling someone who is causing intentional interference to keep him talking until they locate him. I'll see you on the next episode. Support the show Please give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Daily deals for preppers, survivalists, off-gridders, homesteaders & everyday Americans. The best gear & supplies—posted in one place, every day Check out https://prepperfinds.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRT www.forrestgarvin.com

Duration:00:54:47

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Prepping Academy Podcast: PrepperNet Leaders Needed, PrepperFinds.Com Launch, Preparedness Month, Hurricane Readiness, and Building a Nonprofit for Disaster Relief

9/18/2025
Prepping Academy Podcast: PrepperNet Leaders Needed, PrepperFinds.Com Launch, Preparedness Month, Hurricane Readiness, and Building a Nonprofit for Disaster Relief Support PrepperNet’s mission to become a nonprofit by sending your donation via PayPal to info@preppernet.com. You may also contact us by email, and we will provide you with a Stripe invoice for your convenience. Email us at info@preppernet.com In this episode of the Prepping Academy Podcast, host Forrest Garvin shares important updates and opportunities for the prepping community as we move deeper into preparedness month and hurricane season. We begin with a call for action: PrepperNet is seeking new local and city leaders to step up and guide area groups. These leaders help build training, communication networks, and community support, strengthening local preparedness nationwide. Forrest also announces the launch of PrepperFinds.com, a new website providing daily emails with prepping deals, gear, and resources to help preppers stay stocked and ready. Listeners are encouraged to sign up and take advantage of these exclusive finds. Since September is National Preparedness Month, Forrest emphasizes the importance of hurricane readiness. With storms forming and disaster risks increasing, now is the time to review your emergency kits, food storage, and evacuation plans. The episode also highlights Forrest’s growing free prepping webinars, which continue to attract students interested in survival skills, self-reliance, and emergency planning. These online trainings are an easy way to learn new strategies and connect with like-minded individuals. Looking ahead, Forrest shares his vision for creating a PrepperNet nonprofit organization. By transitioning to nonprofit status, PrepperNet can take direct donations and channel funds more effectively to disaster relief efforts. During Hurricane Helena, PrepperNet raised over $25,000 for victims, and Forrest hopes future fundraising will have an even greater impact. This episode of the Prepping Academy Podcast blends community updates, practical preparedness tips, and a vision for long-term survival support. Join PrepperNet, sign up at PrepperFinds.com, and take steps now to strengthen your readiness and your community. Support PrepperNet’s mission to become a nonprofit by sending your donation via PayPal to info@preppernet.com. You may also contact us by email, and we will provide you with a Stripe invoice for your convenience. Email us at info@preppernet.com Support the show Please give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Daily deals for preppers, survivalists, off-gridders, homesteaders & everyday Americans. The best gear & supplies—posted in one place, every day Check out https://prepperfinds.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRT www.forrestgarvin.com

Duration:00:44:45

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Patrick Interviews Forrest Garvin founder of PrepperNet

9/11/2025
The Prepping Academy welcomes Forrest Garvin, founder of PrepperNet, Garvin Academy, and other entrepreneurial ventures that are countable. In today's episode, Forrest updates us on what he has been up to over the last year. We also discuss the current happenings in PrepperNet, where PrepperNet is heading in the future, and a general update on the status of Prepping 2025. Grid Down Comms Up http://www.youtube.com/@griddowncommsup Support the show Please give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Daily deals for preppers, survivalists, off-gridders, homesteaders & everyday Americans. The best gear & supplies—posted in one place, every day Check out https://prepperfinds.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRT www.forrestgarvin.com

Duration:01:17:46

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Grid Down Comms Part II - with Patrick

9/9/2025
Grid Down Comms Up dives into the top ten prepping items for a natural disaster. According to NOAA, there were twenty-seven major natural disasters last year. They did 182 billion dollars in damage and caused 568 deaths. Of all the emergencies we prepare for, we are most likely to be caught up in a large-scale natural disaster. Will you be ready if one strikes your area? In today's episode, we look at the last five items on our list: defense, fuel, electricity, mental health, and building materials. We also toss in a bonus item for number eleven. Heavy equipment, while far from essential, is a game-changer if you can access it. If you are lucky enough to own some, keep them in working order and be able to help out. Remember, mental condition is a huge part of survival. If you or someone you know is at risk or experiencing a mental health crisis, reach out for help at the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline dial 988 or visit https://988lifeline.org/. Stay ready and prep on. Patrick" Support the show Please give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Daily deals for preppers, survivalists, off-gridders, homesteaders & everyday Americans. The best gear & supplies—posted in one place, every day Check out https://prepperfinds.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRT www.forrestgarvin.com

Duration:00:40:13

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Grid Down Comms Part I - with Patrick

9/4/2025
Grid Down Comms Up dives into the top ten prepping items for a natural disaster. According to NOAA, there were twenty-seven major natural disasters last year. They did 182 billion dollars in damage and caused 568 deaths. Of all the emergencies we prepare for, we are most likely to be caught up in a large-scale natural disaster. Will you be ready if one strikes your area? In today's episode, we look at the first five items on our list. potable water, food, communications, medical, and chainsaws to meet our potential immediate needs and self-rescue when help isn't coming. In our next part two, we will continue with the final five items essential for natural disaster preparedness. Stay ready and prep on. Patrick" Support the show Please give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Daily deals for preppers, survivalists, off-gridders, homesteaders & everyday Americans. The best gear & supplies—posted in one place, every day Check out https://prepperfinds.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRT www.forrestgarvin.com

Duration:00:36:43

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John Jacob Schmidt founder of AmRRON interview!

7/8/2025
On this week's episode of The Prepping Academy, we welcome a special guest, John Jacob Schmidt, founder of AmRRON, for a discussion on the history of AmRRON and what the future holds. We also discuss his new project, AmRRON Reloaded, and efforts to grow the ranks of individuals capable of effectively communicating in any emergency situation. Remember, the annual AmRRON national grid down communications exercise takes place later in July. It is your opportunity to test your skills and see what information you can receive during the exercise. Remember, if you do not have communications when the balloon goes up, you are just another refugee staring at your dead cell phone, wondering what just happened. Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.net PrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins. PrepperNet Support the show Please give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRT www.forrestgarvin.com

Duration:01:04:45

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Prepper Camp 2025 Preview with James Walton & Forrest Garvin

6/27/2025
previewsPodcast Summary: Prepper Camp 2025 Preview with James Walton & Forrest Garvin In this energetic episode of ⁠The Prepper Broadcasting Network⁠, host ⁠James Walton⁠ sits down with preparedness leader Forrest Garvin to deliver an insider’s look at Prepper Camp 2025, happening September 26–28, 2025, in Saluda, North Carolina. Over roughly thirty minutes, the conversation highlights why Prepper Camp has become the premier “family reunion” for America’s self-reliance community and what new skills, speakers, and experiences await attendees this year. Garvin—founder of ⁠PrepperNet⁠ and a former airman turned Bank of America webmaster—explains how his unique journey from Y2K concerns to modern cyber-threats fuels the two classes he’ll teach on-site: “⁠Privacy & Security: How to Disappear on the Internet⁠”“⁠The Case for Cryptocurrency⁠”The pair also previews Prepper Camp’s 60+ daily workshops, from ham radio mesh networks to hands-on fire-starting, plus evening concerts, vendor lanes stocked with freeze-dried food and survival gear, and the famous Tent City campfires where lifelong friendships form. Garvin shares memorable moments—such as late-night chats with fellow instructor Dave Wolf—and reminds listeners that 150–200 ⁠PrepperNet members⁠ typically gather for Friday-night dinners, making the event the best networking opportunity in preparedness. Walton closes with a timely call-to-action: tickets are currently discounted at ⁠PrepperCamp.com⁠, but prices rise fast. If you want expert survival training, actionable privacy tactics, and real-world crypto insights—all in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains—mark your calendar for ⁠Prepper Camp 2025 in Saluda, NC⁠ , and secure your spot today. Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.net PrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins. PrepperNet Support the show Please give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRT www.forrestgarvin.com

Duration:00:26:52

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Helene Communications 4

6/17/2025
In this episode of Grid Down Comms Up on the Prepping Academy, Patrick looks at tactical and team communications and strategic communications in a disaster. Team communications are a simple concept, but become surprisingly complex when users enter the equation. Frequency coordination and interference are a reality of a large-scale disaster scene. We discuss how that impacts operations and how we can avoid some of those issues. Strategic communication is frequently overlooked by the prepping and survival community, usually due to the lone wolf mentality. In a disaster, you aren't going to be the lone wolf; you may even be the voice of your community. Having the skills and tools to quickly and effectively relay the needs of those around you is critical to helping those who are trying to help you. In this episode, we look at some details and facts of communications to support the logistical log train to keep your community going in a disaster. Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.net PrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins. PrepperNet Support the show Please give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRT www.forrestgarvin.com

Duration:01:01:55

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Helene Communications 3

6/13/2025
In this episode of Grid Down Comms Up on the Prepping Academy, Patrick looks at some of the technical communications failures during the hurricane, from radio programming disasters, broken equipment, and poor engineering practice. We look at them all. If you want to be the person who learns from others' mistakes, get out a pen and paper to take notes now, so you don't mess it up when others did Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.net PrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins. PrepperNet Support the show Please give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRT www.forrestgarvin.com

Duration:01:07:39

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Free Crypto Webinar and MORE!!! - Public Service Announcement

5/7/2025
Special Public Service Announcement – Free Crypto Webinar In this brief Public Service Announcement, I’m sharing an exciting opportunity for you to join my upcoming free live webinar, “The Case for Cryptocurrency.” This isn’t a full podcast episode, but I wanted to let you know about this important event and why it’s a must-attend for anyone curious about cryptocurrency or looking to secure their financial future. During the webinar, I’ll explain why now is the time to embrace crypto and how it can empower you to stay ahead in a rapidly changing world. Registration is free—just head to preppingacademy.com/crypto to sign up today. Thank you for being part of our community, and I look forward to seeing you at the webinar. Stay safe, and we’ll catch up in the next full episode! Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.net PrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins. Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.net PrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins. PrepperNet Support the show Please give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRT www.forrestgarvin.com

Duration:00:04:38

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Spain Blackout

4/29/2025
Patrick takes the Prepping Academy helm once again with a new episode of Grid Down Comms Up. In breaking world news massive power outages in in Spain impact communications infrastructure sending some residents looking for portable radios to receive information. This episode looks at commercially available information sources that have been hardened by FEMA to survive disasters, EMP's and national blackouts too. Do you know where to turn to if internet and cell service stops? What information should you have available before the grid goes down? 73 Patrick Link the list of FEMA Public Alert Warning System stations. https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/practitioners/integrated-public-alert-warning-system/broadcasters-wireless Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.net PrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins. PrepperNet Support the show Please give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRT www.forrestgarvin.com

Duration:00:23:06

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Communications Disasters: Hurricane Helene Episode 2

2/27/2025
On this episode of The Prepping Academy, Patrick picks up with a Grid Down Comms Up episode. We begin with a look at the battle rhythm in the first seventy-two hours of the disaster and what that looked like for the people on the outside, who were providing communications support and processing information for those with limited access to reliable information. Next, we look at the fog of war, how that impacted operations from day zero, and how it impacted those in the disaster area, followed by a look at the communications picture inside eastern TN and western NC. We wrap up with a what-if discussion about how the picture would have looked very different and been much more complex had the Mt Michell amateur radio repeater not been in the picture. This episode illustrates Patick's quote, "Without communication, you are just another person wondering what just happened." Remember, when the grid goes down, you are on your own, and what you don't know can kill you. Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.net PrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins. PrepperNet Support the show Please give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRT www.forrestgarvin.com

Duration:01:01:30

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Communications Disasters: Hurricane Helene Episode 1

1/7/2025
In today’s episode, Patrick discusses how communications systems failed during Hurricane Helene and why the communications situation in western North Carolina and the surrounding mountains deteriorated so quickly compared to a typical hurricane. We also discuss how amateur and other radio services supported logistics and recovery in the aftermath of the incident. We look at some great successes and failures along with a few lessons learned, including some of the gear in high demand and what skills were needed to keep communications going. Learn from others' mistakes and what can make a life and death-difference during a cataclysmic natural disaster to improve your communications game from real-world observations and experience, not armchair dystopian fiction. Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.net PrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins. PrepperNet Support the show Please give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRT www.forrestgarvin.com

Duration:00:54:02