Prep Comms

The listeners have spoken—so I'm breaking my own rules and releasing this episode out of sequence. I've been getting a lot of APRS questions lately, and instead of trying to answer them all on Instagram or Facebook, I figured it was time to bring this one back. This is a replay from the HamRadio 360 podcast, where I sat down with Kenneth W6KWF to talk about APRS—an old-school messaging system that works without any infrastructure. No cell towers, no Wi-Fi. Just radios doing what radios do best. It's simple, powerful, and way too overlooked. If you're into emergency comms or prepping, APRS should be on your radar. Honestly, it's worth getting your ham license for this feature alone. Enjoy the throwback—and check out more at prepcomms.com or dig through the full archive at hamradio360.com. .

Special Edition Episode Attn: Shortwave Radio Listeners, Ham Radio Operators, Preparedness Enthusiasts Event: AMRRON T-REX Communications Exercise, July 19-21, 2024 Event Description: The annual nationwide scenario-based simulated grid-down communications exercise, TEOTWAWKI Readiness Exercise, is here! Join hundreds across the country and beyond to put your personal, family, group, or organization grid-down emergency plan to the test. This exercise will challenge you to get news and information during an information blackout caused by cyber and physical attacks on infrastructure. Practice using your communications gear with no internet, cell phones, commercial power, or local television and radio stations available. www.AMRRON.com Need a Shortwave Radio? This is my #1 Recommendation: Tecsun PL880 Patch Cable: https://amzn.to/3zPSxhs Show Sponsor: Hub City Mercantile (15% off ALL Systems with Code AJM15)  

Ham Radio: Why I Started the Journey (and Where "Ham" Came From) Ham radio didn't start as a hobby for me. In this episode, I talk through why I finally took amateur radio seriously, what problem I was trying to solve, and why ham radio kept showing up at the end of the communications conversation. I also touch lightly on the history of the amateur radio service and where the term "ham" came from—not as trivia, but to clear up common misconceptions. This isn't a tutorial, test prep, or a gear review. It's a conversation about motivation, capability, and why ham radio became part of my preparedness plan when other options came up short. TrUSDX Micro Ham Radio: https://amzn.to/4boNWDJ Ready to Go Further? If this episode clarified things for you and you're ready to stop guessing, here are the two ways I help: 1. The 30/30 Ham Radio Challenge A simple, daily plan to earn your license and actually start using ham radio. No cramming. No drama. Just steady progress. https://www.familyconnectsystem.com/3030welcome 2. The 90-Minute Communications Planning Session If you want to talk through your situation—distance, family, expectations, and realistic options—this is where we do that. No gear sales. No theory. Just clarity. https://www.familyconnectsystem.com/first-five-minutes If neither of those are for you, that's fine too. This show exists to explain the landscape, not convince anyone to walk it.

Ham radio usually comes up at the end of the conversation about communications. Not first, and not early—after people have already tried other options and figured out what feels easy and what doesn't. In this episode, I talk through why that happens. I walk through patterns I've seen over time: how people approach communication planning, how radios get bought and set aside, and why plans often fall apart when they're never used or practiced ahead of time. This isn't a tutorial or a licensing guide. I'm not explaining how to get started or what equipment to buy. It's simply a conversation about time, familiarity, and why ham radio tends to sit where it does—at the end. Trot Over to YoutTube to actually watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jCSRyX6ECBg&lc=Ugw6l1c4ZMLW_Qb1H6J4AaABAg 30/30 Challenge: https://www.familyconnectsystem.com/3030welcome Why Your Family Won't Use the Radios - Mindset Book #1 https://prepcomms-shop.fourthwall.com/products/why-your-family-wont-use-the-radios If you want someone to look at your situation—your family, your distance, your goals—and help you decide what actually makes sense, you can book a family communications planning session with Caleb.  

Most families don't lose communication because the radio fails. They lose it because stress changes how people talk. In this episode, Caleb breaks down how families actually communicate on GMRS — the common mistakes that create confusion, and the simple habits that keep radio traffic calm and clear when it matters. This isn't about gear. It's about behavior, clarity, and confidence. What We Cover Why stress breaks radio communication The three most common family communication mistakes How talking too fast and over-explaining kills clarity A simple, repeatable family radio pattern that works Why roles matter more than radios How to teach kids calm radio habits without fear Need a clear family communication plan? Caleb offers a paid 90-Minute Family Communication Planning Session to help you decide what to rely on when phones fail. Book here: https://plan.prepcomms.com

Most families buy GMRS radios… then realize no one actually knows how to use them when the phones go quiet. This episode fixes that. Today we walk through the simple, practical skills every household needs to use GMRS with confidence: • The 3-button rule • How to choose the right channel group without a chart • How to know if you're hitting a repeater • What to do when you hear nothing • The 10-second teaching script for non-technical adults • A weekly household radio routine that actually works No programming. No deep tech. Just clear steps any family can follow. Mentioned in the show: Register for the Winter Backup Plan Webinar (Dec 9): https://live.prepcomms.com Prep Comms Network Founders Pricing: https://founders.prepcomms.com Family Advent Calendar: https://www.familyconnectsystem.com/advent-calendar GMRS + MURS Gear (my store): https://www.familyconnectsystem.com/storehome 73 y'all & God Bless.   ****Master Class (12/15/25) https://www.familyconnectsystem.com/masterclass-order-page

Most new GMRS users hit the same wall: thirty channels on the screen, all looking equal… but they're not. Some are full-power. Some are handheld-only. Some can hit repeaters. Some won't carry your voice past the yard. In this episode, we break down GMRS the way real families actually use it: • The three channel groups that matter • What power limits mean in the real world • Which channels give you real range • Why Channels 8–14 feel so weak • The only three channels your family needs to know • How repeaters actually work on GMRS If you've ever wondered why GMRS feels "strong one minute, weak the next," this episode clears it up. BLACK FRIDAY LIVE: I'm hosting a Live Zoom call on November 29th at 1 PM Eastern to help you build a simple winter-ready communication plan. (your invited!) Register at: https://live.prepcomms.com DECEMBER 9 WINTER WORKSHOP: Same link gets you access to the Dec 9th session as well. News Mention: This week's nationwide CodeRED outage is a reminder of why you need a WX radio & alternate comms matter. Full WYFF report here: https://www.wyff4.com/article/emergency-notification-system-offline-after-vendor-cybersecurity-incident-officials-say/69533822 Show close: 73 y'all & God Bless. Yes, Night Cafe assisted with the photo for this episode (like always)

Prep Comms 2025 Christmas & Black Friday Special Host: Caleb Nelson, K4CDN –  Your no-nonsense guide to smart radio gear and real-world readiness. From AM/FM and weather radios to shortwave, scanners, CB, MURS, FRS, GMRS and power setups — what actually works and what's worth buying. Full storefront and extra gear at https://amazon.prepcomms.com BONUS: Family Comms Advent Calendar PDF   AM / FM & Weather Vondior NOAA – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07P7QDJZX Sangean MMR-99 – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BWPSGM18 Midland ER10VP – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08SYK7LJT Midland WR-120 – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00176T9OY RCA RCWR7V – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09HSTL7JY Shortwave Tecsun PL880 – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IDM4N5K Tecsun PL368 – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08ZY9GTJV County Comm GP Series – https://countycomm.com/collections/radio Scanners HomePatrol-2 – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JJY6S72 BCD436HP – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00I33XDAK BC355N – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00972M9VK CB Radios Uniden PRO520XL – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00004VXNI Bearcat 980 SSB – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01G610DEY Galaxy DX-959B – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00V8C1N96 Radioddity CB-27 Pro – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B56KST6F President McKinley – https://amzn.to/4nRUcXe MURS BTECH MURS-V2 – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BS8KW399 Dakota M538 Base – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004K370GA Retevis RT27V – https://amzn.to/3LJmOEF WilComms Roll-Up J-Pole – https://prepcomms.shop More info → https://MURS.prepcomms.com FRS Radios BTECH FRS-A1 – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B2X58BJ5 Motorola T605 H2O – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CMWBVCB5 GMRS Radios BTECH GMRS-V2 – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09Z1NJ1M3 BTECH GMRS-50PRO – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DT7KC686 ¼-Wave & Roll-Up Antennas – https://prepcomms.shop GMRS License Guide – https://GMRS.prepcomms.com Power & Preparedness EcoFlow DELTA 2 – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CHMD99Y4 Honda EU2200i – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08YJVDGS1 Ham & Advanced Favorite Radio – BTECH UV-Pro Best Dealer – https://mtcradio.com Ham Radio Prep (Code HAMRADIO360) – 30×30 Challenge – https://www.familyconnectsystem.com/3030welcome Join the Prep Comms Network Private training for families and teams who want to communicate reliably — now, not later. Monthly training that builds confidence through practice. No theory. No jargon. Founders get half-price lifetime access, a seat on the Dec 2025 Founders Call, and entry to our private online group + Discord. Enrollment closes Nov 30 → https://founders.prepcomms.com Extra links: Amazon Storefront – https://amazon.prepcomms.com GMRS License – https://GMRS.prepcomms.com PrepComms Gear – https://prepcomms.shop 30×30 Challenge – https://www.familyconnectsystem.com/3030welcome Prep Comms Network – https://founders.prepcomms.com 73 y'all & God Bless. — Caleb Nelson K4CDN

This week's Prep Comms Podcast digs into the real part of GMRS—how to use it day-to-day. No hype, no theory. Just what works. Caleb Nelson (K4CDN / WRBR 237) walks through: Teaching your family how to power on, adjust volume, and find the right channel Labeling radios so anyone can grab one and talk What privacy tones really do (and what they don't) How GMRS repeaters extend your range — and the simple steps to use them correctly Why practice matters more than equipment You'll also hear about the new BTech GMRS-50 Pro, the PeliComms ¼-Wave Base Antenna now in stock at PrepComms.shop, and the launch of the Prep Comms Network — a private members-only group for real-world radio users who want to keep learning together, solve problems, and stay connected without the noise of social media. Gotta Have Info: www.myGMRS.com    Show Links & Resources Get your GMRS license the easy way: FamilyConnectSystem.com/GMRSLicenseExpress Find local GMRS repeaters: MyGMRS.com BTech GMRS-50 Pro Base Station: Amazon Listing Retevis RA86 GMRS Mobile Radio: Amazon Listing Retevis GMRS Base Antenna (7.2 dBi Gain): Amazon Listing Nagoya UT-72G Mag-Mount Antenna: Amazon Listing PeliComms GMRS ¼-Wave Base Antenna (Made in USA): Shop at Hub City Mercantile ZBM2 QP Whip Antenna (use code PREPCOMMS): Product Link WilComs Roll-Up J-Pole (MURS/GMRS): Shop Here  

This week, we're hearing from you — real operators in real situations. From Hurricane Helene reports to mountain-range tests and home-built towers, listeners across the country are proving what GMRS can actually do. Caleb Nelson (K4CDN | WRBR 237) shares lessons from YouTube and podcast feedback, covering antenna height, coax loss, repeater etiquette, and why practice still beats theory. Mentioned in this episode: • Free GMRS License Express Guide → https://www.familyconnectsystem.com/gmrs-license-express-funnel • @TerminalElement on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@TerminalElement • UHF Yagi Directional Antenna (Prep Comms Store) → https://amzn.to/48Weco0 Stay Connected: Live Family Connect Webinar → Thurs 7 PM ET | Replay Fri–Mon → https://www.familyconnectsystem.com All episodes → https://www.prepcomms.com   73 y'all & God Bless — Caleb Nelson | K4CDN | WRBR 237

In this episode, Caleb Nelson (K4CDN | WRBR237) breaks down what GMRS can really do—and what it can't. You'll learn how far GMRS actually reaches, why antenna height beats transmitter power every time, and what equipment upgrades make the biggest difference for families building real communication plans. We'll also cover license coverage, the truth about 50 watts, repeater basics, and why investing in a better antenna might triple your range overnight. Links & Resources: Free GMRS License Express Guide →  Live Family Connect Webinar → Thursdays 7 PM ET | Replay Fri–Mon →  More episodes → @PrepComms Recommended Gear: BTECH GMRS-50PRO →  Retevis RA86 →  ZBM2 QP Whip (use code PREPCOMMS) →  Wil-Coms Roll-Up J-Pole →  Centerfire Ground-Plane →  Find Repeaters → https://mygmrs.com

What you'll learn (fast): Why GMRS is the practical "bigger brother" to FRS: same 22 channels, different rules, more capability. The license is simple: $35, 10 years, one license covers your whole household (apply at FCC.gov). Range reality: terrain + antennas matter. Main channels allow up to 50W transmitter output; interstitials are lower. Privacy tones ≠ privacy. GMRS is open-air. You must ID every 15 minutes and at the end. Why certified radios matter (and why new FRS/GMRS combo handhelds aren't sold anymore). Links & resources: Free: GMRS License Express Guide  Read: How to Get Your GMRS License Vetted Gear: Amazon GMRS List → https://www.amazon.com/shop/hamradio360/list/3NJ7FK9BFG6V9 www.PrepComms.com

FRS radios are a great start, but they aren't the whole plan. They work for kids, neighbors, and short-range use — but when the storm hits or the grid goes down, you may need more. In this episode, Caleb Nelson (K4CDN) explains how FRS fits into a complete family communication plan, including: The strengths and limits of FRS radios How GMRS, MURS, and ham radio build on that foundation Why thinking in layers — the Cascade Protocol — makes families stronger How National Preparedness Month is the right time to move from gear to plan FRS is a tool worth having, and combined with clarity, it's what keeps families connected. Mentioned in this episode: BTECH FRS-A1: https://amzn.to/3UTnjgK Retevis RT15: https://amzn.to/3UTedki Retevis RB66P: https://amzn.to/4mIRbZt Retevis RB48: https://amzn.to/47HOP8T Motorola Waterproof FRS: https://amzn.to/4g5oV0Q Family Connect System Webinar Replay: www.familyconnectsystem.com

FRS radios aren't all created equal. Some blister-pack sets are cheap toys that break in a weekend, while others are solid enough to trust on family trips or in an emergency. In this third episode of the FRS Mini-Series, Caleb Nelson (K4CDN) takes a practical look at the gear: What really matters in an FRS radio (durability, batteries, usability) Why you shouldn't believe the "35-mile range" marketing The difference between throwaway blister packs and quality FRS options Caleb's go-to pick for a reliable family radio This isn't about buying the most expensive radio on the shelf — it's about choosing gear that works when your family needs it. And with September being National Preparedness Month, there's no better time to make sure your radios are ready. Want the bigger picture? The Family Connect System webinar replay is available now. Watch here: www.familyconnectsystem.com Mentioned in this episode: BTECH FRS-A1 (Caleb's pick): https://amzn.to/3UTnjgK Retevis RT15: https://amzn.to/3UTedki Retevis RB66P: https://amzn.to/4mIRbZt Retevis RB48: https://amzn.to/47HOP8T Motorola Waterproof FRS: https://amzn.to/4g5oV0Q Blog recap: hamradionetwork.com/ Family Connect System Webinar Replay: www.familyconnectsystem.com

August 29, 2005. Hurricane Katrina slammed the Gulf Coast, the levees failed, and the water swallowed entire neighborhoods. Phones went dead. Power grids collapsed. Families were cut off and 911 calls were rerouted anywhere a signal could land. In the middle of that chaos were volunteers — amateur radio operators who carried their share of the load when the systems failed. One of them was Carl, KB5WMY (Silent Key). In 2015, he sat down with me to share his story of working at the Bossier Parish 911 center after Katrina. Carl spoke openly about the calls he could help, the ones he couldn't, and the weight of serving in those days. Now, on the 20th anniversary of Katrina, we honor Carl's memory and service by replaying that full conversation. It's a behind-the-scenes look at how ordinary people with radios made a difference when everything else went silent. vist www.prepcomms.com for more including the bonus audio material 

FRS radios aren't long-range or flashy, but they're still one of the most useful family tools you can own. In this episode of the Prep Comms Podcast, Caleb Nelson (K4CDN) dives into how families actually use FRS today, including: Keeping kids connected in the neighborhood Calling everyone home for dinner without shouting Car-to-car communication on road trips and caravans Staying in touch at theme parks, malls, and campgrounds Why short range and lack of privacy don't have to be deal-breakers FRS may not be perfect, but it works — and when it comes to family connection, that's what matters most. Learn more in the blog: hamradionetwork.com/blog/frs-realworld Radios mentioned: BTECH FRS-A1 Build your full plan: Family Connect System

In 1996, the FCC created the Family Radio Service (FRS) to give everyday families a simple, free, and legal way to stay connected. You've probably seen these radios before — blister packs on the shelves at Walmart, Bass Pro, or Target promising 30 miles of range. The truth? They don't go nearly that far, but they've kept families connected for decades. In this first episode of our FRS Mini-Series, Caleb Nelson (K4CDN) shares: The history of FRS and why the FCC gave it to the public How blister-pack walkie talkies became household items in the 90s and 2000s The real strengths of FRS (simple, free, license-free) The real limits (range, fixed antennas, crowded channels) Why FRS still matters in your family's communication plan today Whether you've already got a set sitting in a drawer or you're new to radios, this episode will help you see FRS in a whole new light. --Mentioned in this episode: BTECH FRS-A1: https://amzn.to/3UTnjgK Family Connect System: https://www.familyconnectsystem.com Listen, learn, and share this with someone who still thinks those blister-pack radios can go 35 miles.

Episode 4 – Is MURS Still Worth It? Why This Forgotten Band Might Be the Most Reliable Tool in Your Family's Kit After four episodes, we're wrapping up the MURS Mini-Series with a hard look at one question—does MURS still have a place in 2025? For 15+ years, I've used MURS radios on our farm for everything from driveway alerts to in-vehicle comms on family road trips. In this episode, I'm breaking down: Real-world MURS performance from long-term use Why antennas matter more than radios (and my trusted picks) How MURS compares to FRS, GMRS, CB, and ham radio today Who MURS is perfect for—and who should look elsewhere If you've been wondering whether to add MURS to your comms plan—or keep using it—you'll have the answers after this. Mentioned in this episode: Amazon Storefront (MURS Gear): https://amzn.to/3DKR8Lx ZBM2 QP Whip (Use Code: PREPCOMMS): https://zbm2industries.com/products/qp-whip-antenna-thicc Ed Fong DBJ-1C Antenna: https://www.kbcubed.com/DBJ-1C-GMRS-MURS-Dual-Band-Base-Antenna-by-Ed-Fong-p406162512 J-Pole for MURS: https://www.jpole-antenna.com/shop/murs-151-154-mhz-land-mobile-j-pole-antenna Centerfire Folded Dipoles: https://centerfire-antenna.square.site/product/folded-dipoles/5 Centerfire Ground Plane: https://centerfire-antenna.square.site/product/vhf-uhf-tunable-ground-plane-antennas/8 Comet GP-9 Vertical: https://rwantennastore.com/comet-gp-9nca-gmrs-frs-commercial-dual-band-vhf-uhf-base-vertical-antennas Low-Loss Coax: https://amzn.to/40xx47F RG8x for shorter runs: https://amzn.to/4m6EuqP 30/30 Ham Radio Challenge: https://www.familyconnectsystem.com/3030welcome Family Connect System Webinar: https://www.familyconnectsystem.com

Digital Modes, Text Messaging, Repeaters—and Why Clarity Matters In this episode of the Prep Comms Podcast, we dive into one of the most misunderstood parts of MURS radio: digital modes. Is digital really banned on MURS? Can you send a text? What about crossband repeaters or modes like MT63, RTTY, or APRS? Caleb clears the air by breaking down what the FCC actually allows—and where people still cross the line. From legal analog data modes to banned digital voice, this episode brings clarity to a confusing corner of the radio spectrum. We'll also hit: Texting over MURS (yes, it's possible) Why repeaters—including crossband—are a no-go How your antenna system makes or breaks signal strength What "manual control" and bandwidth limits really mean Mentioned in this episode: 📍 Webinar + course for families: www.FamilyConnectSystem.com 📍 Amazon gear list: https://amzn.to/3DKR8Lx 📍 ZBM2 QP Whip Antenna: ZBM2 Store — use coupon PREPCOMMS 📍 Ed Fong DBJ-1C: Ed Fong Store 📍 Centerfire Ground Plane: View Here 📍 JPole for MURS: J-Pole Antennas Rattlegram: Blog Post 📍 Rattlegram: Android 📍 Rattlegram: iOS Want to stay legal and stay connected? Join the families building real emergency comms systems—without the confusion: 👉 www.FamilyConnectSystem.com  

In Episode 2 of the Prep Comms MURS Mini-Series, Caleb Nelson dives deep into what really determines your performance on MURS. Spoiler: it's not power. It's your antenna, your coax, your terrain—and how well you understand what you're working with. This isn't theory. These are real-world setups from real users—from the hills of Pennsylvania to the silence of Utah. You'll learn exactly what works and why, including gear recommendations that Caleb personally uses on his family farm and in mobile scenarios. Topics Covered: Real listener feedback on MURS performance The truth about 2 watts and how far it can really go VHF vs. UHF performance in rural terrain Coax cable explained (RG8X vs LMR-400) Legal antenna height and why it matters Why MURS is not private—and why that's still okay Mentioned in this Episode: 🧰 Full Gear List (including coax & antennas): https://amzn.to/3DKR8Lx 🔧 ZBM2 QP Whip Antenna (use code PREPCOMMS): https://zbm2industries.com/products/qp-whip-antenna-thicc?variant=43973159420056&sca_ref=9308031.9dPKBwrMsiK9OlOS 🎓 Free Webinar – Build Your Family Comms Plan: www.familyconnectsystem.com