Category: Podcast

Don't Let Yourself Go To The Crazy Place

Don’t Let Yourself Go To The Crazy Place | episode 284

James Burnette Leave a comment

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Don't Let Yourself Go To The Crazy Place
Don’t Let Yourself Go To The Crazy Place

 

 

Don’t Let Yourself Go To The Crazy Place | episode 284

 

In the world of prepping, it’s easy to slide from being prepared to feeling paranoid. Prepping has an important purpose: to ensure we’re ready to face unexpected events. But sometimes, in the quest to be ready for anything, it’s possible to lose perspective. In this podcast, we’ll discuss how to stay grounded and avoid the “crazy place” while prepping.

Keep Paranoia in Check

Prepping often means staying informed about possible risks, from natural disasters to economic downturns. However, too much focus on worst-case scenarios can lead to paranoia. Instead, view prepping as a tool to enhance your life, not something driven by fear. Remember that many potential crises are rare, and balancing awareness with realistic expectations will help you prepare without unnecessary anxiety.

Stay Positive and Balanced

Mindset is crucial. When prepping starts to feel overwhelming, step back and remember why you started. The goal isn’t to live in fear but to be secure and confident in your preparations. Make positivity part of your routine by practicing gratitude and appreciating the security your efforts bring. Keeping your spirit positive will help you stay motivated and less stressed.

Watch Less News

Constant news can amplify feelings of dread, especially if it focuses on negative stories. Try limiting your news intake to just once a day or a few times a week to avoid becoming overwhelmed. Balance factual information with time to relax and enjoy other activities. This approach will help you stay informed without feeling alarmed by every headline.

Connect Socially

It’s easy to become isolated when prepping, but staying social is important. Engage with friends, family, or prepper communities that support positive, balanced perspectives. Social interactions can provide fresh insights and help you stay grounded. In the end, prepping should help you live confidently—not consume your life.

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Testing Your Gear

Testing Your Preps | episode 283

James Burnette Leave a comment

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Testing Your Gear
Testing Your Gear

 

 

Testing Your Preps | episode 283

 

In a survival situation, knowing how to use your gear can be the difference between comfort and struggle—or even life and death. Simply stashing items in a bug-out bag without testing them can lead to unpleasant surprises when you need them most. Testing your gear is essential to truly understanding its capabilities, limitations, and how it fits into your survival strategy. Here’s how you can effectively put your camping and survival gear to the test, while getting the whole family involved.

 Hands-On Gear Testing

Start by thoroughly testing each item you plan to rely on, from your tent and fire starter to your water purifier and knife. Each tool has unique nuances, so take the time to learn them. Set up your tent a few times before you need to, test your cooking stove and fuel, and practice using your water filtration system. Testing items in different environments and weather conditions also provides valuable insights. You’ll get comfortable with your equipment, making it easier to use under pressure.

Conduct a Mock Bug-Out or Bug-In

Organizing a mock bug-out (evacuation) or bug-in (shelter-in-place) drill with your family is a great way to assess your overall readiness. Pick a weekend, pack up your bug-out bags, and head out to a local campground or even your backyard. This is an excellent time to go over your emergency plan, assigning roles, and learning how to communicate effectively under stress.

If a bug-out isn’t possible, consider doing a bug-in. Cut off your regular utilities and see how long you can manage on stored resources alone. These realistic scenarios show everyone what to expect, help you discover any gaps in your plan, and give your family a sense of confidence in the gear you’ve chosen.

Testing your gear and plans will help you identify what works, what doesn’t, and what needs improving—making you better prepared for anything life throws your way.

 

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bugging out vs bugging in

Bugging Out Vs Bugging In | episode 282

James Burnette Leave a comment

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bugging out vs bugging in
bugging out vs bugging in

 

Bugging Out Vs Bugging In | episode 282

When it comes to prepping and survival planning, one of the biggest decisions is whether to bug out or bug in. Each option has its pros and cons, and your choice can impact your chances of long-term survival. In today’s episode, we’ll explore factors that can help you decide when to stay and when to go.

Which Option Gives You the Better Chance for Survival?

Bugging out, or evacuating, is often seen as a last-resort strategy for survivalists. It can increase your exposure to dangers and leave you more vulnerable without proper supplies or a secure location. Bugging in, or staying home, often provides more stability, access to pre-stocked resources, and a familiar environment. However, in certain crises, staying home can become too dangerous. The key is evaluating the situation carefully and weighing which option offers you the best safety and self-sufficiency.

Times To Bug In

Bugging in is usually the preferred option for most people in short-term crises, such as severe weather events or civil unrest. If you’re in a well-prepared, fortified home with ample supplies, staying put can give you a significant advantage. Bugging in allows you to rely on your own resources, avoid the unpredictability of crowded evacuation routes, and protect your home and belongings.

Times To Bug Out

Bugging out becomes necessary when staying home puts you at risk. If there’s a looming natural disaster like a wildfire, chemical leak, or massive flooding, evacuating may be your safest option. Bugging out also makes sense if your home becomes a target during a prolonged social collapse or extreme civil unrest. Having a bug-out bag packed and a well-planned route to a safer location is essential.

Tune in to hear more about the pros and cons of each approach and how to prepare for both scenarios so that you’re ready to make the best choice when it counts.

 

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pay yourself first

Pay Yourself First | episode 281

James Burnette Leave a comment

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pay yourself first
pay yourself first

 

Pay Yourself First | episode 281

In today’s episode, we’re diving into the concept of “Paying Yourself First,” a powerful lesson from Robert Kiyosaki’s book, Rich Dad Poor Dad. While many of us were taught to cover our bills and expenses first, Kiyosaki’s approach flips that script. The idea is to prioritize your investments, savings, and even your preparedness supplies before you spend on regular expenses. By doing this, you set yourself up for long-term stability and growth rather than constantly treading water financially.

Investing in Your Investments and Preps First

One of the key strategies for paying yourself first is to ensure that part of your income goes directly toward investments or emergency supplies. When you treat your financial future and preparedness as essential expenses, you’re more likely to stay committed. For example, you might start by putting a percentage of your income into a retirement account, investment portfolio, or into building a robust emergency supply—whether that’s food, water, or other critical preps. Kiyosaki emphasizes building these “assets” first so that they can grow and support you over time.

Automating Your Savings and Prepping

Another helpful approach is to automate these contributions. You can set up automatic transfers to savings accounts or automated investments in low-risk funds. Many online banks and investment platforms allow you to schedule regular transfers, so you don’t have to think about it. When it comes to preparedness, subscription services and bulk purchases allow you to stockpile essential supplies gradually. Automation helps keep you on track even during busy times and ensures that you’re consistently building up assets and preps with minimal effort.

“Paying yourself first” isn’t just about managing money—it’s about building a sustainable and resilient lifestyle. Join us in this episode as we discuss practical ways to prioritize your future.

 

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Homemade mres

Homemade MREs | episode 280

James Burnette Leave a comment

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Homemade mres
Homemade mres

 

Homemade MREs | episode 280

 

 

In this podcast episode, we’re diving into the world of homemade MREs (Meals Ready to Eat)—an easy, customizable, and cost-effective way to bring durable meals on the go, whether you’re camping, hiking, or simply preparing for emergencies. Here are some practical tips on assembling your own MREs with store-bought items, handy condiment packs, and individual components to make each meal your own.

Store-Bought Foil Pack Food Options

The first step in building a homemade MRE is selecting compact, non-perishable food items, and foil packs are an ideal option. Many grocery stores carry a variety of foil-packaged foods perfect for on-the-go meals. Tuna and salmon are popular protein choices, but you can also find chicken, flavored rice, and even beans in single-serving foil packs. These foods are lightweight, durable, and can be eaten as-is or heated up if a camp stove is available. Other great options include packs of instant mashed potatoes, pre-cooked pasta, and shelf-stable sauces.

Collecting Free Condiment Packs

Small condiments can transform a simple meal, adding flavor without taking up space. Many restaurants and convenience stores provide small packets of mayonnaise, mustard, hot sauce, honey, and more. These are perfect for homemade MREs and are often free or inexpensive. Just make sure the packets aren’t punctured, and they’ll last quite a while in your MRE pack, enhancing your meal options on the go.

Buying Individual Components

Building MREs from individual components lets you create meals that suit your taste. Dry goods like instant oatmeal, jerky, and crackers work well as fillers. Plastic cutlery, napkins, and small snack packs can be added for convenience. Vacuum sealing or using mylar bags with oxygen absorbers will keep your homemade MREs fresh and ready to go.

Join us in this episode as we break down the essentials for creating easy, tasty homemade MREs, packed with variety and ready for any adventure.

 

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