American Contingency

Ep #18 - What direction do you think the country is going? There are rumblings of discontent from all sides of the aisle and within every demographic, but...are we collectively being blinded by the immediate noise of the media machine and missing a huge opportunity to be grateful for everything we are privy to here in the United States? Mario Q (Southeast Regional Coordinator) has a unique perspective as someone born in Central America, where he lived for the first 20 years before immigrating to the United States, gaining citizenship, and serving in the Marines. He knows what it is like to watch your country fall beyond civil unrest and into the darkness of civilization breakdown. He and I discuss our Constitution's beautiful document, the gratitude one can have for a feast with friends and family, and how you can seek optimism by following a higher calling than yourself. Just hit play and gain new insights into how all adversity is opportunity disguised as hard work, resiliency, and faith. When you're ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com. Become a member today --> https://bit.ly/JoinAmConHere Learn more about AmCon from Mike Glover -- > https://bit.ly/mikegloveramcon  

Ep #46: Thom Rigsby joins us as we close out 2024, embark into 2025, and set our sights on growing American Contingency into the preeminent member-driven preparedness organization. Whether a current member or one someone thinking of joining - you will find your people here. As we say goodbye to this iteration of the podcast, I leave you as host of the AmCon show and bid you farewell by saying goodbye how I said hello - with Thom and I outlining what we've done, what we are doing, and what we will do as AmCon sets its sights on goals you can help us fulfill by becoming active in your local area and being the leader we all know you will be once you step outside your comfort zone. Let's do this one more time, and then it's up to all of y'all to help us make this happen. It's not goodbye...just see you later. When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

Ep #45: You wanna talk about prepping. You want to talk about being peppered. Then you go to bring it up, and the myths people believe, the lies they have been told, and the misinformation coming from those who'd rather have the country be dependent on them for survival than have citizens able to take care of themselves, their loved ones, and their community - well, it practically closes their ears and shuts them down before you even get to the good parts. You know, like, have water and food for everyone in your house for a week. Have a way to start a fire when it is wet. Run straight at bears and alligators because why not?! In this episode, I will laugh at, with, and about some of the most popular myths I found on the inter-webs as I researched this topic. Sit by the fire with me. This is gonna make you laugh...well, at least it did me. When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

Ep #44: Are you prepared to keep your family safe in every situation? In this episode, we dive into essential family defense strategies to help you communicate effectively during conflicts, master critical first-aid skills, and incorporate personal defense tools into your routine. Plus, learn how your canine companions can be more than just pets—they can be key players in your home’s security. With actionable tips for staying calm under pressure, training dogs for defense, and building a comprehensive safety plan, this episode equips you to handle emergencies confidently and keep your loved ones safe, no matter what. When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

Ep #43: Life can feel chaotic. Work, bills, family, social pressures, the impending doom you might feel in the pit of your stomach because the world is spinning faster and faster as technology follows Moore's Law - and let's not leave out politics, considering what occurred just a few days ago. I hope you can manage your conversations around the election in a way that doesn't ruin friendships - nor keeps you in an echo chamber. Regardless of everything happening around you, your mental and emotional wellness will be a desired priority in your life to maximize your overall health.  In this week's episode, we welcome AmCon's own Chad Davis from the Southeast region to discuss mental health and wellness. He has years of experience in this field as a mental health counselor and leads our mental resilience training subgroup inside the common interest groups. Go join and check out that group if you are interested in more information we discuss during this episode. When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

Ep #42: Are your kids too distracted by their phones or friends to notice what’s happening around them? Teaching children situational awareness is key to keeping them safe at home, school, and everywhere in between. In this episode, we explore how to empower your family with practical strategies to sharpen observation skills and stay alert. Learn how to guide your kids through busy crosswalks, spot potential dangers on the playground, and stay safe in stores, public spaces, and large events. Plus, we’ll dive into teaching essential first aid so they know exactly what to do in minor emergencies. Equip your family with the tools they need to navigate the world confidently and safely! When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

Ep #41: This week, we will cover the Southeast American Contingency Adventure Challenge because it was awesome! Nothing compares to real-world experiences and meeting fellow members face-to-face. From not coming prepared at all to navigating the challenges in the woods to spontaneous learning and sharing moments with other members and participants, the AmCon Adventure Challenge is not to be missed. If yours is about to happen, go out there and rock it out, and if yours has already happened, get yourself ready for next year! Do you want to gain experience through doing, not just talking and watching? Then, the AmCon Challenge is the place for you. When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.  

Ep #40: September is Outdoor Skills Month here at AmCon, so let's go over some ways to prepare yourself for a fun day of hiking or a deep journey into the unknown forest. First, we discuss optimizing gear for mobility by prioritizing multi-functional items and organizing packs for balance and efficiency. Next, we explore the importance of navigation and situational awareness, with tips on using maps, compasses, and environmental cues to stay on course. Finally, we dive into essential survival skills, including how to forage, fish, purify water, and build shelters in the wild. These practical tips ensure listeners are prepared for any challenge nature throws their way. When you're ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We're here when you're ready. We'll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

Ep #39: From buying the right gear for the job to utilizing the feed to connect with other like-minded members to utilizing the in-person and online training AmCon provides, Sam (@smith29) knows the ins and outs of the AmCon world, and this week, he visits us. We will discuss the AmCon Adventure Challenge, the AmCon Information and Situational Awareness Team [AISAT], and how you can maximize everything AmCon offers its members. Joining a new group can be anxiety-ridden or smooth sailing, and a lot of that has to do with what you do when you first start and how you choose to incorporate AmCon into your daily life - Sam and I will do our best to help you find your way. The rest is up to you. When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

Ep #38: In part two of our series on discussing American Contingency with those close to you, we focus on practical topics like mobility and evacuation plans, medical preparedness, and essential documents. We explore how to initiate conversations around having a quick evacuation plan, assembling bug-out bags for the whole family (including pets), and keeping vehicles ready for emergencies. We also discuss the importance of medical preparedness, covering everything from keeping medical records handy to ensuring you have a well-stocked first aid kit and managing medications during long-term power outages. Finally, we discuss the crucial steps for securing essential documents like passports and birth certificates and how to maintain updated emergency contact information. This episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you guide your loved ones toward better preparedness and security. When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

Ep #37: In today's fast-paced world, being aware of your surroundings can mean the difference between safety and danger. Join me as I delve into the art of situational awareness, exploring the secrets behind the OODA Loop (observation, orientation, decision, and action) and the Perception, Comprehension, and Projection model. Discover how to break free from phone-induced distractions and sharpen your observational skills, equipping yourself and your family with the tools to anticipate threats before they happen. Whether you're navigating a crowded city street, a bustling park, or enjoying time with family at home, this episode will teach you how to stay one step ahead and transform awareness into your superpower. Tune in to learn how you can harness these insights to protect yourself and your loved ones in any situation!

Ep #36: Discussing how you can casually and effectively talk to your neighbors, friends, and family about the importance of emergency preparedness is imperative if you want them to be ready for whatever comes next. In this episode, I'll provide practical conversation starters on topics such as food and water storage, home security, mobility, medical preparedness, and essential documents, aiming to help you engage others in meaningful dialogue about their resiliency in the face of unknowns. Learn strategies for ensuring essential supplies during storms, securing your home against damage, forming neighborhood watch programs, and more, all designed to foster a culture of preparedness and mutual support within your community. I'll cover key points, such as the importance of having at least two weeks' worth of non-perishable food and water, steps to fortify your home against severe weather, and the benefits of establishing a community network for sharing resources during crises.  When you're ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We're here when you're ready. We'll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

Ep #35: You know your time is valuable. People say there aren't enough hours in the day, but that is a fallacy. The truth is we aren't spending our time effectively. In the pursuit of preparation, AmCon will save you time, energy, and confusion by introducing you to an entire community of people who want to help prepare one another. Growing and sharing are choices you make. We can show you the way; you must be willing to take the steps needed to bring your own plan to fruition. AmCon celebrates four years of informing, equipping, and training people by preparing you, helping you grow, and offering everyone an opportunity to share their experiences of responding, supporting, and recovering. In this episode, I will discuss all the ways the internet can confuse where we clarify. Where the statistics say we are not focusing on the entire family supporting their preparation. When is now the time to start adding resources to your cache so you can be ready when it's past the time to get prepared?   When you're ready to PREPARE, GROW, and SHARE by building the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We're here when you're ready, and we'll keep the fire going so you can find your way.

Ep #34: Entering into American Contingency membership is all about getting connected with your regional, state, county, and interest groups right away. We are not an organization where sitting on the sidelines will help you. If you want the total value of AmCon to manifest, it is imperative that you actively join your regional, state, and county groups. From there, you can find and participate in the category and interest groups that align with your expertise or areas where you want to grow and share with other members. Regardless of your political, religious, or cultural background or affiliation, you are welcome here as long as you stand with us in our values and mission. We believe in being there for one another, preparing to be our own first responders, valuing honesty and trustworthiness, and being open to hearing diverse opinions. American Contingency brings value to every member, but you have to take action. By actively participating and connecting with your community, you can fully experience the support, knowledge, and preparedness that AmCon offers. Remember, we are a community built on active involvement and mutual support. When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

Ep #33: Credit card debt can feel like King Kong on your chest, and if you live on a fixed income, then figuring out a strategy to get yourself out from under the debt beast can feel like a never-ending carousel of balances going up and down. Let's discuss some strategies for elevating this burden so you can walk freely again, taking deep breaths, without the anxiety of a potentially missed paycheck or due date looming over you. In this episode, you'll learn how to boost your income with flexible side gigs and use credit card balance transfers with 0% interest to pay down debt effectively. Whether juggling multiple credit cards or having limited credit options, we've got actionable tips and my real-life success story to guide you on your journey to financial stability. A side hustle might seem like a lot to take on right now. However, the freedom you will feel when you aren't beholden to the faceless multi-nationals counting their bouillon like Scrooge McDuck will be a relief that I promise will bring you an internal joy of accomplishment that will fuel so many other areas and endeavors in your life. When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

Ep #32: Discover how to make the most of summer with strategies for fun activities, winter preparation, saving money, and enhancing family time. Explore various outdoor activities like hiking, biking, swimming, and camping that boost physical and mental health. Learn practical gardening and home maintenance tips to prepare for the colder months, including planting vegetable gardens and performing essential home repairs. Find out how to save money by reducing energy costs, participating in budget-friendly community events, and undertaking DIY projects. Strengthen family bonds through regular activities, educational trips, and teaching life skills. This episode offers insights to ensure a productive, enjoyable, and economically savvy summer. When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

Ep #31: Tornado sirens going off in my community. Alerts blasting over cell phones. Lightening lighting up the sky as if Zeus is furious with everything below Mt. Olympus. Thunderstorms and tornado cells roaming your community can bring with them massive levels of uncertainty; I know it did for me recently. For me, when weather systems rock my home, being a part of American Contingency affords me connections within our network that can relay information to me so I know what is happening out there and can calm my family down and alert my neighbors to the info I know so they too can make a wise decision for the safety of their family. I have Thom and the American Contingency community. Who do you have? You can never have enough information when vicious weather systems are raging in your community. I text Thom when the alerts go off, and he relays information to me using the apps I discuss in this episode, which I will list below.  When Mother Nature turns her eye toward you, how are you obtaining the information that will help you make decisions that can directly affect the emotions happening in your home and those of your friends and neighbors who could be in a panic state? You probably don't have Thom's phone number, but you won't need it with these apps. Now you will know what we know, which, time and time again, has helped my family traverse the booms of thunder and the feelings of electricity rushing through our bodies as lightning hits the ground in our neighborhood.   Radar Apps: American Contingency: Weather tracking team: AmericanContingency.com Youtube Weather Tracker: Ryan Hayy Y'all https://www.youtube.com/@RyanHallYall Weather Underground (has phone app): https://www.wunderground.com/ Radar Scope (has phone app):  https://shop.radarscope.app/tag/radarscope-pro/ Radar Omega (has phone app) https://www.radaromega.com/ IEM-bot https://weather.im/iembot/ Tornado (Red Cross app) https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/mobile-apps.html Local weather apps Search for your local news stations app  Storm Radar Weather Tracker https://www.accuweather.com/en/us/huntsville/35801/weather-radar/326704   When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

Ep #30: Explore the critical aspects of mobility across personal readiness, community engagement, and practical strategies in our latest podcast episode. We delve into how physical fitness and psychological preparedness enhance personal safety, the benefits of community-led safety initiatives, and the essentials of navigating outdoor environments. Learn about the importance of rapid departure readiness, including tips on 'Go Bags,' vehicle preparation, and home security. Additionally, we discuss how to maintain economic and home stability when traveling, ensuring you're always ready to move. This episode provides comprehensive insights into making informed decisions for your safety and preparedness, offering valuable tips and strategies to empower you and your community.   When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

Ep #29: Today, we're talking about something super important: being ready for anything, whether a natural/man-made disaster or something unexpected. It's all about having those critical conversations with your family, friends, co-workers, loved ones, church, and community to ensure everyone's on the same page. I'll share some key tips on why certain ways of discussing this pertinent topic will motivate them to engage with you, what to talk about, how to approach the conversation, and what to do to keep everyone involved and prepared. It's about making sure our circle is safe and sound; believe me, it will make a huge difference when we all sleep at night and know one another is ready for when we have to be ready. So, let's dive in and get everyone prepared together. When you're ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com. 

Ep #28: Have you ever considered how the emotions of anxiety, judgment, and anger shape our lives and our decisions, for better or for worse? Preparing for emergencies or disasters transcends the realm of tangible supplies and bug-out bags; it fundamentally entails cultivating mental resilience and maintaining mental health and wellness to navigate crises effectively. Today, I delve into the dual nature of these influential emotions, anxiety, judgment, and anger, exploring how they can both propel us forward and hold us back. From the motivational drive that anxiety can provide to the critical thinking fueled by judgment and the change spurred by anger, we uncover the positive aspects that these emotions can bring to our lives and preparedness. Yet, we also navigate through their darker sides, including the paralysis brought on by excessive anxiety, the conflict stemming from harsh judgment, and the potential for relationship strain due to unmanaged anger. Join us as we unpack the complexities of these emotions, offering insights into how we can harness their power for personal growth while also recognizing the importance of managing them to avoid the negative impacts on our health and relationships. When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.