Live Free and Ham Podcast
Technology
About
Welcome to Live Free and Ham Podcast; we are your bi-weekly podcast covering all things ham radio in New Hampshire, New England, and beyond. Be sure to check out our website at livefreeandham.com and our social pages on Instagram and Facebook . If you want to support the show, you can buy us a coffee or become a Patreon supporter. ************************************ Support the show: Buy Us a Beer: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lfh podcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/LiveFreeandHam Podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093543540309 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livefreeandham/ Leave the hosts a voicemail: Call and leave us a voicemail with comments or questions, or tell us how to do our jobs! 978.233.1142 Affiliate: Live Free and Ham - 10% off all LFH Swag CODE: LFH10. Reliance Antennas - 10% off and free shipping at https://www.relianceantennas.com/ CODE: LIVEFREEANDHAM Halibut Electronics - 10% discount on all purchases https://electronics.halibut.com/ of $25 or more, limited to three uses per listener. CODE: LIVEFREEANDHAM YouTube Channel: Live Free and Ham - @livefreeandham Eric (N1JUR) - @N1JUR Paul (N1OG) - @NovemberOneOscarGrouch Todd (W1STJ) - @W1STJ Swag/Shows/Updates: https://livefreeandham.com Join our discord: https://discord.com/invite/zas2cAVNPs If you would also like to learn more about the hosts: Todd (W1STJ) - https://w1stj.com Eric (N1JUR) - https://n1jur.com Paul (N1OG) - https://www.qrz.com/db/N1OG Ryan (W1SNH) - https://w1snh.com #livefreeandham #N1OG #N1JUR #W1STJ #NHPodcast #HamRadioPodcast #HamRadio #AmateurRadio #HamRadioPodcast #AmatuerRadioPodcast
Episodes
- When Ham Radio, Real Life, and Podcast Chaos Collide
The Live Free and Ham podcast discusses changes to the show's schedule and host Todd W1STJ taking a break. They also share community updates, including Winlink messages and listener voicemails.
- Are We Still Talking on the Air… or Just Online Now?
This episode of Live Free and Ham discusses the growing influence of online communities in ham radio, contrasting them with traditional RF interactions. It questions whether the hobby is evolving or facing a decline in on-air activity.
- Airborne Activations & Daily Grind: How Far Is Too Far in POTA?
This episode of Live Free and Ham features hosts Eric, Paul, and Todd discussing extreme Parks on the Air (POTA) activations with guest Keith. They cover daily POTA missions, aeronautical mobile operations, the difficulties of logging whil…
- Best Apps for POTA? POTACat Might Be One
Casey, the developer of the POTACat app, joins Live Free and Ham to discuss his creation. The episode details what POTACat does, who it is for, and how it aims to improve the Parks on the Air experience.
- Warning: This Ham Radio Podcast Has No Direction
This episode features an unplanned, chaotic roundtable discussion among four ham radio enthusiasts. The conversation covers topics like 900 MHz frequencies, transverters, the cost of ham radio gear, and YouTube content creation, offering a…
- We Had a Plan. Then We Started Talking.
In this unstructured episode of Live Free and Ham, hosts N1OG and N3FML discuss listener voicemails, Winlink messages, and technician questions. The conversation naturally evolved to cover topics like coffee preferences, weather, mobile op…
- Live Free and Ragchew - Sunday Night Ragchew Ep. 119
The Live Free and Ham podcast group collaborates with the Ragchew Crew for their first combined live stream event, now scheduled for the 4th Sunday night of every month at 8:30 PM Central. Viewers are invited to join the conversation and p…
- Live Free and Ham Crosses the Pond | Guests on The European Ham Radio Show
Eric, Todd, and Paul of the Live Free and Ham podcast join The European Ham Radio Show crew to discuss their show's origins, the state of ham radio, and their experiences with portable operating and community growth. The discussion feature…
- Apparently, We’re Ruining Ham Radio… By Actually Using It
The Live Free and Ham podcast addresses the question of whether using ham radio, specifically the 146.52 simplex frequency, is ruining the hobby. The episode covers listener Winlink messages, the practice of calling CQ, message relays, a t…
- Simplex Is Only Dead If You Don’t Key Up
The Live Free and Ham podcast episode "Simplex Is Only Dead If You Don’t Key Up" explores the success of the 2 Meter FM Activity challenge. Operators created their own momentum, leading to increased 2-meter simplex activity and demonstrati…
- 220 MHz: The El Camino of Ham Radio
This episode of Live Free and Ham Podcast, "220 MHz: The El Camino of Ham Radio," features hosts Eric N1JUR, Todd W1STJ, Paul N1OG, and Mike N2MAK discussing underutilized amateur radio bands like 220 MHz and 900 MHz. They explore reasons…
- Grouch Goes to Hamcation: Radios, Rooftop Tents, Questionable Life Choices.
This episode of Live Free and Ham details the Hamcation experience, focusing on road trip stories, behind-the-scenes events, APRS pranks, radio gear discussions, POTA activations, and the overall community atmosphere of ham radio events.
- Joe K5YVY Started with Tornadoes… Then Ham Radio Happened
Joe Brett shares his unexpected path into ham radio on Live Free and Ham, explaining how storm chasing and the practical need for radios led to his interest and eventual callsign. The episode explores how real-world emergencies can drive p…
- Mistakes Were Made: Ham Radio Reality with Steve KO4AFL
Hosts Paul (N1OG) and Eric (N1JUR) are joined by Steve (KO4AFL) to discuss the importance of real-world experience and participation in learning ham radio. The episode highlights that improvement in amateur radio comes from practice and le…
- From Ham Radio to Hot Air Balloons | Shane from Ham Radio Clubhouse
Shane from Ham Radio Clubhouse discusses the creation and unedited nature of his show, the challenges of long-term livestreaming, and his involvement in aviation. The episode also covers ham radio clubs, meetings, and keeping the hobby wel…
- Scanning Sucks, Elmering Doesn’t
The Live Free and Ham Podcast episode "Scanning Sucks, Elmering Doesn’t" covers mobile ham radio, repeater scanning, and radio organization, emphasizing practical learning over memorization. It highlights the significance of mentoring new…
- The Unfiltered Chat: TSA Wins, Satellite Talk, and Ham Radio Ramblings
In an unscripted live episode of Live Free and Ham Podcast, hosts Eric, Todd, and Paul engage in spontaneous conversation, celebrating a TSA victory and discussing topics ranging from satellite technology to ham radio tips. They also provi…
- Rebrand, Resign, Repeat: AI as CEO of Our Lives
The podcast episode "Rebrand, Resign, Repeat: AI as CEO of Our Lives" discusses the growing influence of AI on personal and professional workflows, including branding, resume generation, and software development. It humorously and thoughtf…
- REBOOT: Navigating Solar Activity in the Ham Radio World
This episode of Live Free and Ham Podcast features hosts Eric, Paul, and Todd discussing the impact of solar activity on ham radio propagation. They also cover upcoming Field Day plans, WSPR mode, antenna testing, and various community and…
- From Scar Stories to Ham Memories: A 2025 Catch-Up We Somehow Survived
This episode of Live Free and Ham Podcast reflects on the chaotic and humorous moments of 2025. The hosts reminisce about favorite memories, discuss past episodes, and share behind-the-scenes insights and bloopers from their journey.
- Is FT8 a Game Now? FT8 Battle Night Brings PvP Energy to Ham Radio
This episode of Live Free and Ham covers FT8 Battle Night, a gamified approach to FT8 contacts that introduces a competitive, scoreboard-driven challenge. The discussion explores the addictive nature of the platform, how it motivates more…
- Winter Field Day is coming in hot… even if the bands are frozen solid.
The Live Free and Ham Podcast episode features hosts Eric (N1JUR), Paul (N1OG), and Todd (W1STJ) with guests Marvin (W0MET), President of Winter Field Day, and board member Mike (KY4LV). They discuss Winter Field Day strategies, survival,…
- Shack Roasts, Hamster Ops, and Hollywood Nerd-Power
This episode of Live Free and Ham features discussions on pop culture and Hollywood, described as a nerdy conversation with tangents and jokes. The episode provides various links for supporting the show, affiliate discounts, and social med…
- I Told You the World Needs More 75-Ohms
The Live Free and Ham podcast episode "I Told You the World Needs More 75-Ohms" features discussions on private livestreams, win links, Nvidia, ham radio legends, and the 75-ohm feeder story, delivered with nerdy humor and chaotic energy.
- No Winlink, No Grouch, No Problem: The Show Must Ham On
In this episode of Live Free and Ham, hosts Eric and Todd welcome Mike W4OPS from the National Amateur Radio Alliance. They discuss the NARA's mission to improve radio operators and share anecdotes about livestream issues, listener confusi…
- Dings, Dangles, and Don’t-Call-It a Dipole
This episode of Live Free and Ham features discussions on portable towers, weather challenges, and radio contacts made across various countries. The hosts also touch upon antenna issues, build tips, and topics relevant to the amateur radio…
- 50 to 75 Ohms and Back Again: A Sunshine State Snafu turned Signal Saver
This episode details a weekend of hands-on amateur radio projects, including testing unconventional feedlines, solving a 50-to-75-ohm conversion, and experimenting with antennas. It highlights the practical, collaborative, and experimental…
- I Just Shipped My Pants And Other Ham Radio Misadventures
This episode of Live Free and Ham Podcast covers ham radio topics such as frequency ownership during contests like CQ Worldwide, practical advice for portable radio setups, and strategies for park activations. The discussion also touches o…
- We Paddled To An Island, Fired Up 600 Watts, And Worked The World
This episode covers a Parks on the Air activation from Eagle Island, detailing the use of kayaks for access, a 600-watt station, and contacts across Europe, South America, and the US. Guest Keith (AC1RH) discusses equipment, logistics like…
- Bullets, BaoFengs, And Bonsai: Yes, We Went There
This episode discusses practical amateur radio strategies, including POTA, mobile station setups, and QRP activations. It emphasizes community building, skill development, and creative off-air pursuits to enhance on-air confidence.
- Four flip-flops walk into a divider…
The Live Free and Ham Podcast recaps NearFest, a ham radio festival, highlighting the blend of technology and community. The episode covers practical aspects like antenna choices, MeshTastic configuration, and on-air etiquette, alongside p…
- Three hams walk into Near-Fest and leave with fewer radios, more stories, and an AllStar hub to prove it
The Live Free and Ham Podcast shares their Near-Fest experience, covering topics like fall radio propagation, challenging ham radio exam questions, livestreaming POTA activations, and the logistics of reliable communication. They also intr…
- The Ham Radio Crusader's Guide to All-Star Link Nodes
Freddie Mack (KD5FMU), also known as the Ham Radio Crusader, discusses All-Star Link technology with the Live Free and Ham Podcast. The episode covers hardware and software setup, new features in ASL3, network etiquette, and practical appl…
- The Mesh Dealer Takes Over Live Free and Ham
This episode features Dave KB5UTY, 'The Mesh Dealer,' discussing Meshtastic technology and its role in communication networks. The conversation covers the technology's applications for emergency preparedness and remote adventures, highligh…
- 24 Hour POTA Campout Recap!
This episode recaps the 24-Hour POTA Campout, highlighting how participants braved the rain and celebrated contributions to the Teachers Institute. The hosts share stories and express gratitude for the event's success.
- PLEASE COPY - Mobile Signals: Ham Radio Meets Modern Cars
The hosts of Live Free and Ham Podcast will be re-airing favorite episodes from their back catalog during a break for Labor Day and a POTA weekend. They will return with new content soon.
- PLEASE COPY - 20 WPM with a Hacksaw Blade and a Nail
The Live Free and Ham Podcast hosts are re-airing favorite episodes while taking a break for Labor Day and other events. They plan to return with new content and encourage listener interaction through reviews and voicemails.
- PLEASE COPY - Overcoming Mic Fright
The hosts of Live Free and Ham Podcast will take a break for Labor Day and other events. During this time, they will re-air favorite episodes from their back catalog. They plan to return with more content soon.
- Finding POTA Legends
This episode explores the dedication and efficiency of elite Parks on the Air (POTA) operators, who achieve thousands of contacts with basic equipment. The hosts also share personal updates, discuss challenging exam questions, and plan an…
- Planning for Propagation Challenges at the 24-Hour POTA Event
The Live Free and Ham Podcast details preparations for a 24-hour Parks on the Air event at Greenfield State Park, including station configuration and backup plans for potential propagation issues. The event will feature vendor prize giveaw…
- Wired and Fired: When Fuses Blow But Your Radio Doesn't
This episode details the process of installing a ham radio in a vehicle, covering antenna and power considerations, wiring, and real-world performance. It compares older and newer radio models and discusses practical aspects of mobile oper…
- Radio Rebels Plan Epic 24-Hour POTA Event
This episode details an upcoming 24-hour Parks on the Air event at Greenfield State Park, including operational plans, fundraising for the ARRL Teachers Institute, and logistical preparations. It also touches on licensing progress and anec…
- Golden Tickets and Gatekeeping: Reimagining Ham Radio's Entry Path
This episode debates redesigning ham radio licensing, questioning exam relevance versus practical skills. Proposals include revamping license classes, offering limited HF privileges for technicians, and pairing new hams with mentors.
- Evolving the Airwaves: What Ham Radio Could Become
This episode discusses technological advancements for amateur radio, including universal Bluetooth connectivity, location-aware rigs, and gamification, to make the hobby more accessible and engaging for future generations.
- Band Pass Filters and Bureaucracy: Field Day's Identity Crisis
This episode discusses the evolving landscape of ham radio, comparing the traditional Field Day event with the popular Parks on the Air (POTA) program. It questions whether Field Day's focus on contest points and complex rules has overshad…
- Back to Broadcasting: Reflections on Two Years of Live Free in Ham
In celebration of their second anniversary and over 12,000 downloads, the hosts of Live Free in Ham reflect on their podcasting journey, sharing recent ham radio experiences, community milestones, and their authentic passion for amateur ra…
- Live Stream - Live Free and Ham 500 Subscriber Live Stream!
This special livestream celebrates 500 subscribers with giveaways and discussions on topics like skydiving, Parks on the Air activations with
- We Just Hit Record and Let It Fly: A Different Kind of Episode
This episode features an unscripted conversation among three ham radio operators, covering personal anecdotes, equipment talk, and candid discussions about ham radio club politics, Field Day, and generational differences within the hobby.
- Skip This If You Hate Fun: A CB Radio Revival
This episode features Walt K4OGM discussing the revival of CB radio, its modern DX capabilities, and legal operation. The conversation explores CB as a potential gateway to amateur radio, touching on technical aspects, cultural differences…
- Airwave Doppelgängers: When Your Radio Twin Lives in Another State
In a special crossover episode, the Live Free and Ham Podcast and Everyday Ham crews discover surprising similarities in their approaches to podcasting, community building, and radio operations, despite being based in New Hampshire and Mic…