In this episode, I sit down with no script, just a heart full of gratitude for this hobby that has become such a meaningful part of my life. It’s been about six weeks since the last episode, and a lot has happened since then. Here’s what I cover:

• The QSO That Sparked This Episode

  A parks-on-the-air activation at my favorite spot, Decker Wildlife Management Area, led to a surprise moment: someone on the other end of the mic told me they listen to this podcast and love it. That simple comment was enough to inspire me to hit record today.

• Call Signs, Vanity Temptations, and Community Feedback

  I reflect on my call sign, KQ4UUR, and the encouragement I’ve received to keep it, even as I admit the temptation for a shorter call sign if (or when) I get my Extra license. I share why this one has grown on me and the history behind almost changing it.

• Local Repeaters and the People Who Make Them Special

  I talk about the 146.790 and 145.370 repeaters in Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati, the voices I hear there, and the friendships forming through countless conversations. I also share why I avoid certain ham-radio lingo like “rag chew” and “ham” itself, and why “amateur radio operator” resonates more with me.

• Hamfests, GMRS, and Clearing the Air

  I share a meaningful conversation with the president of the Southwest Ohio GMRS Association at the Cincinnati Hamfest, clearing up some early misunderstandings from my first days in radio and reflecting on how GMRS actually led me to amateur radio in the first place.

• Club Leadership Invitations and Boundaries

  I was recently invited to be on the ballot for Vice President of the Northern Kentucky Amateur Radio Club. I explain why I declined. Not out of disinterest, but because of how I structure my days, my early mornings, and my commitment to staying in alignment with my personal priorities.

• Late-Night Activations and Parks on the Air Goals

  Despite my early bedtime, I found myself doing several activations that stretched well past my preferred bedtime. I talk about the challenge, the fun of chasing QSO counts, and how close I’m getting to taken over a second section of of the leaderboard for my favorite park.

• Starlink Mini and the Perfect POTA Setup

  I share how my Starlink Mini, with its new $5/month standby plan, has become essential gear for parks without cell service, making navigation and logging possible even in remote areas.

• Spurious Emissions and Radio Experiments

  I discuss a fascinating club presentation on spurious emissions, what I learned about unlocking radios, and why I’m now more cautious before transmitting on non-certified bands.

• Antennas, Gear, and Favorite Setups

  From my ATAS struggles to the JPC-12 vertical antenna that keeps impressing me, I give an update on what’s working, what’s not, and what gear I prefer usingly lately.

By the end of this episode, you’ll hear a mix of stories, lessons learned, and the small moments that keep me coming back to the mic.