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Off-Grid Cooking: Grills, Camp Stoves, and Fuel Storage | episode 320

When the grid goes down, cooking doesn’t have to stop. Whether it’s a power outage or an off-grid adventure, having reliable cooking methods is essential. Let’s break down two of the best options—grills and camp stoves—and how to store enough fuel to keep them running.

Grills: Charcoal vs. Propane
Grills are a go-to for many preppers. Charcoal grills offer simplicity and flavor, but they require more effort to manage. Charcoal can take time to light, and temperature control isn’t as precise. However, charcoal stores indefinitely if kept dry, making it a solid long-term prep.

On the other hand, propane grills heat up quickly and allow for precise temperature control. They’re easy to use and excellent for quick meals. The downside? Propane canisters are finite, and without regular refills, they won’t last forever. Storing multiple propane tanks ensures longer use, but you’ll need a safe, ventilated space.

Camp Stoves with Butane
For indoor cooking, camp stoves fueled by butane are a top choice. Compact and efficient, butane stoves are easy to set up and burn cleanly, making them safe for inside use. They’re perfect for boiling water, heating food, or even frying. The catch? Butane canisters can be expensive and don’t last long under heavy use.

Fuel Storage Tips

Charcoal: Store in airtight bins or sealed bags to keep it dry.
Propane: Keep tanks outside in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.
Butane: Stockpile extra canisters, but be mindful of temperature changes that can affect pressure.

By diversifying your cooking methods and ensuring ample fuel storage, you’ll be ready to cook no matter the situation.

When is Enough Enough? – Finding the Balance in Prepping | episode 319

January 6, 2025January 5, 2025 James Burnette Leave a comment

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When is Enough Enough? – Finding the Balance in Prepping | episode 319

Prepping is all about being ready for whatever life throws your way, but at what point do you stop adding to your stockpile? It’s a question many preppers face – can you ever have enough stored away? While it’s important to be prepared, there’s a fine line between smart prepping and unnecessary hoarding.

How Much is Too Much?
It’s easy to fall into the mindset of “just one more bag of rice” or “another case of canned beans won’t hurt.” But prepping isn’t just about having the most – it’s about having what you need for your situation. Assess the size of your household, the threats you’re likely to face, and the space you have available. A well-planned prep tailored to your needs will always outshine a cluttered room full of random items.

Rotate Your Food Preps
Food prepping can quickly turn into waste if you’re not careful. Rotating your supplies is essential to keeping things fresh and usable. Practice the first-in, first-out method to ensure older items are consumed before they expire. Incorporate your prep food into ev eryday meals to keep things moving.

Prepping Beyond Food
Remember, it’s not all about food. Water, medical supplies, tools, and skills are equally vital. Stockpiling is important, but knowing how to use what you have is just as crucial. Diversify your preps to cover a wide range of potential needs.

Quality Over Quantity
At the end of the day, prepping is about peace of mind. Focus on quality, sustainable options, and skill-building. Prepping isn’t just survival – it’s about creating a life you can sustain, no matter the conditions.

Unexpected Prepping Items You Need in Your Kit | episode 318

January 3, 2025January 3, 2025 James Burnette Leave a comment

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unexpected prepping items

Unexpected Prepping Items You Need in Your Kit | episode 318

When you think of prepping, canned goods, water filters, and first aid kits probably come to mind. But what about zip ties and baking soda? Sometimes the most overlooked items can be the most valuable in an emergency. Here’s a list of unexpected preps that deserve a spot in your survival stash.

Zip Ties

These little plastic wonders are incredibly versatile. From securing gear and fixing broken zippers to making temporary handcuffs or splints, zip ties are a must-have. Keep a variety of sizes in your pack – you’ll thank yourself later.

Baking Soda

Baking soda isn’t just for baking. It’s a powerhouse for cleaning, deodorizing, and even putting out small grease fires. You can also use it to brush your teeth or soothe bug bites. One box can go a long way in a pinch.

Super Glue

Need to seal a small cut or repair broken gear? Super glue can save the day. It bonds quickly and works on everything from fabric to metal. It’s like having a portable fix-it kit in your pocket.

Paper Clips

These tiny office supplies can be used to pick locks, fix zippers, or hold things together temporarily. They’re lightweight and take up virtually no space in your pack.

Hard Candies

Not only do they boost morale, but hard candies provide quick energy and soothe sore throats. They can also be a great bartering item if things ever get rough.

Condoms

Surprisingly, condoms can store water, act as slingshot bands, or keep items waterproof. Plus, they’re compact and durable.

Old Credit Cards/Gift Cards

Cut them into tools, use them to scrape frost, or even shim a door lock. Don’t toss them – repurpose them.

Binder Clips

Great for organizing gear, sealing food bags, and even making quick repairs to clothing.

Fly Sticky Window Cling

Insects can be a huge nuisance in survival situations. A fly trap helps keep your space bug-free.

Add these items to your kit and be prepared for the unexpected!

Why Losing Weight is a Game-Changer for Preppers | episode 317

January 2, 2025January 2, 2025 James Burnette Leave a comment

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Why Losing Weight is a Game-Changer for Preppers | episode 317

The new year is the perfect time to set goals, and for many preppers, getting in better shape should be at the top of the list. Beyond the obvious health benefits, shedding extra pounds can dramatically improve your resilience, mobility, and overall preparedness. In today’s podcast, we dive into why weight loss matters for preppers and how to approach it effectively.

First of the Year Diet Clean Up

Start with the basics: clean up your diet. After holiday indulgence, it’s time to simplify. Focus on whole foods, lean proteins, vegetables, and cutting down on processed junk. Small changes like eliminating soda or fast food can lead to big results over time. Think of this as prepping your body the same way you prep your pantry.

Picking a Diet

Here’s the truth: nearly every diet works if you stick to it. Whether it’s keto, intermittent fasting, paleo, or simple calorie counting, the key is finding something that fits your lifestyle. Don’t overcomplicate it. Choose a plan you can stick with for the long haul, and remember – consistency trumps perfection.

Tracking Numbers

Tracking your progress helps you stay motivated. Whether you’re logging calories, measuring waistlines, or stepping on the scale weekly, having data keeps you accountable. It’s no different than keeping inventory of your supplies. Knowledge is power, and understanding what’s working (or not) allows for quick course corrections.

Being Consistent

Consistency is the secret weapon in any prepper’s arsenal. Just like building your food storage or mastering survival skills, weight loss requires persistence. Show up every day, even when motivation dips. The long-term payoff will make you stronger, faster, and more capable in challenging situations.

A healthier, fitter body enhances every aspect of your prepping journey. It increases endurance, reduces injury risk, and ensures you’re ready to face any scenario head-on. Tune into the podcast for more practical tips on making weight loss part of your prepper lifestyle.

Kickstart 2025: Essential Prepper Goals for the New Year | episode 316

January 1, 2025January 1, 2025 James Burnette Leave a comment

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Kickstart 2025: Essential Prepper Goals for the New Year | episode 316

Inventory Check

Before diving into new projects, take stock of what you already have. Go through your food storage, medical supplies, and gear. Check expiration dates, identify gaps, and ensure your emergency kits are fully stocked. An annual inventory review helps prevent waste and guarantees you’re not left scrambling in a crisis.

Plan Your Garden

A self-sufficient food source is invaluable. Start planning your 2025 garden now. Research crops suited for your climate, map out planting schedules, and order seeds early. Even small urban gardens can yield a surprising amount of food. Consider adding medicinal herbs and perennial plants that will provide long-term benefits.

Learn One New Skill a Month

Survival skills are perishable – if you don’t use them, you lose them. Make it a goal to learn or refine one new skill every month. Whether it’s basic first aid, canning, woodworking, or foraging, continuous learning enhances self-reliance. Enroll in workshops, watch online tutorials, and practice regularly.

Make a Budget and Stick with It

Prepping can get expensive if you’re not careful. Establish a realistic budget that prioritizes essential purchases and training. Break larger projects into manageable steps to avoid burnout or financial strain. By staying disciplined, you’ll steadily build your resources without sacrificing financial stability.

This year, stay organized, keep learning, and grow stronger in your preparedness journey. Tune into the podcast for a deeper dive into these goals and practical tips to help you thrive in 2025!