Jay Aho (N8QYQ) came back to ham radio after 20 years away and, about a year later, had an APRS digipeater and a Winlink gateway running 210 feet up on the Detroit Masonic Temple. In this episode he tells James (K8JKU), Jim (N8JRD) and Rory (W8KNX) how it happened: a childhood friend who happens to manage the building, trustees who said yes to emergency communications, and a whole lot of learning along the way.

Jay explains why he picked a low-gain Diamond X30 and 30 watts instead of blasting the region, why the site runs as a WIDE1-1 fill-in digipeater to be additive to the network rather than competitive, and how it now shows 93 miles of coverage on aprs.fi. He gets into the build itself, a Raspberry Pi 4 running Dire Wolf for APRS and a hardened Windows mini PC for VARA FM Winlink, each feeding a Yaesu FTM-3100 at 30 watts, plus watchdogs, auto-boot after a power loss, remote access, LiFePO4 battery backup, and the surprisingly easy grounding story. He also introduces Detroit Never Goes Silent, a lobby exhibit where visitors scan a QR code and receive an email that traveled over radio, and talks about the effort to fund an ARPSC station at Detroit's Emergency Operations Center.

Before the interview, the crew covers Jason KN4AL's 1000th POTA activation, Activate All RI 2026, the new POTA website beta, building shack dashboards with Claude Code, and everything they've learned about the Icom IC-7110 since Tokyo Ham Fair.

Topics in this episode:
Icom IC-7110 specs, pricing and release speculation
Activate All RI 2026, September 11-13
The new POTA website beta at next.pota.app
Shack dashboards built with Claude Code
Jay N8QYQ's Detroit APRS digipeater and Winlink gateway
Diamond X30, WIDE1-1 fill-in and 93 miles of coverage
Raspberry Pi 4, Dire Wolf, VARA FM and a hardened Windows mini PC
Detroit Never Goes Silent and the Detroit EOC station

Don't miss a single episode! Follow the Everyday Ham Podcast on your favorite podcast platform (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, and more) and be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist. 

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

QSL is one of the most used words on the air and one of the least understood. When Jim asked what it actually stands for, all three of us stopped cold, so we spent an episode getting it right.

James (K8JKU), Jim (N8JRD) and Rory (W8KNX) work through what QSL really means, why keeping a log and confirming a contact are two different things, and how to navigate paper cards, QRZ Logbook, ARRL Logbook of the World and Club Log without drowning in it. Rory tells the story of the operator from Oregon who wrote him a letter after waiting 42 years to work one rare Michigan county, and makes the case that refusing to confirm cheats somebody else out of the state, grid or county they have been chasing. James walks through his own workflow honestly, cumbersome parts included, and Rory does the same. If you are new to HF and have not started logging yet, this is the foundation nobody hands you.

Before the main topic, Rory puts money down on the Icom ID-5200A and defends the price, Icom teases the X-026 ahead of HAM Fair 2026, Kenwood's TM-D750A firms up for September, and James argues the MacBook Neo is the best portable ham radio laptop you can buy right now.

In this episode:
Icom ID-5200A pre-order and the $999.95 question
The Icom X-026 teaser and HAM Fair 2026
Kenwood TM-D750A, September and day-one APRS
The MacBook Neo as a portable ham radio laptop
A new-in-box Alinco DJ-C5 for $85
Xiegu G7250, remote operating and 100 meters of Ethernet
What QSL actually means, and why logging is not QSLing
Paper cards, QRZ, Logbook of the World and Club Log
Our real QSLing workflows, start to finish
Ohio and Hawaii QSO Parties, August 22

Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/HhhoVukJI3s

Don't miss a single episode! Follow the Everyday Ham Podcast on your favorite podcast platform (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, and more) and be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist. 

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

What happens when a club stops treating Field Day like an endurance contest and starts treating it like a neighborhood open house? In this episode, James (K8JKU), Jim (N8JRD), and Rory (W8KNX) unpack the South Lyon Area Amateur Radio Club's reinvented Field Day, a community-first event in the middle of town with big printed signs at every antenna, a Get On The Air station, and newcomers like Cruz (KF8GNL) making their first HF contacts. The club nearly doubled last year's score with 1,193 contacts across three stations, but the real win was the dog walkers, museum visitors, and first-timers who stopped to see what ham radio is all about.

Before that, the crew recaps chasing the 13 Colonies Special Event through a wild solar storm, including a last-minute D-Star scramble to bag the Great Britain bonus station. They also give an honest, no-hype first look at the Buddipole BuddiHEX hex beam, cold solder joint and all, and break down the brewing showdown between the Icom ID-5200 and Kenwood TM-D750A mobile radios.

Topics in this episode:
13 Colonies Special Event and rough band conditions
Monroe Ham Swap finds
Reinventing Field Day around community
Getting new operators on the air
Buddipole BuddiHEX first impressions
Icom ID-5200 vs Kenwood TM-D750A

Don't miss a single episode! Follow the Everyday Ham Podcast on your favorite podcast platform (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, and more) and be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist. 

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

Ep. 18 – Has Parks on the Air hit its peak? James (K8JKU), Jim (N8JRD), and Rory (W8KNX) debate the future of POTA, from its explosive growth to what the declining solar cycle means for portable operators, and whether the program is in its twilight or just entering its golden years.

The conversation comes fresh off the Third Annual Michigan POTA Meetup, where the guys spent a weekend camping, activating, and sharing campfire stories with about 70 POTA enthusiasts at Hartwick Pines State Park. They talk about what actually brings hams together, why community is the best part of this hobby, and how to find or start a meetup in your own area.

Also in this episode: the Everyday Ham merch store is officially live at everydayham.com, a Hamvention attendance stat correction, shout-outs to Penn (AC8XI) and Rob (N1RWJ), and around the shack updates from all three hosts.

Learn more about the meetup at michiganpotameetup.com, and if you love POTA, consider donating at parksontheair.com.

Don't miss a single episode! Follow the Everyday Ham Podcast on your favorite podcast platform and subscribe to our YouTube channel at @EverydayHam.

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist. 

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

A concept radio with "almost nothing" on display managed to dominate Hamvention 2026, and we can't stop talking about what that means for the future of ham radio. We're fresh back from Dayton, a little punchy, and ready to unpack the best conversations we had with vendors, makers, and listeners who recognized our voices across the noise of the fairgrounds. If you care about where mobile rigs, repeaters, and digital features are headed next, this recap is loaded with real impressions and honest skepticism.

We dig into the biggest manufacturer moments first: Yaesu's DR-3 repeater direction and the next steps for System Fusion, Kenwood's long-awaited TM-D750A progress and why "ship it later" can be the right call when firmware isn't ready, and Icom's X-026 concept strategy that had people cheering, arguing, and even storming away. We debate whether asking the community for feedback is a bold move or a frustrating tease, and why market size, R&D timelines, and expectations at Hamvention don't always align.

Then we get practical with gear that feels closer to daily use, especially the Icom ID-5200. We talk interface upgrades, smart mobile touches like auto-dimming, and the big headline that grabbed our attention: native APRS encode and decode via firmware update. We also zoom out to the rest of the show, from Four Days in May and small vendor innovation to CW key makers, swap meet pricing, and what the flea market "junk scale" looked like this year.

If you like this kind of grounded ham radio coverage, subscribe, share the show with a friend headed to their next hamfest, and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Then come hang out with us in Discord and drop your take: is the X-026 hype brilliant or annoying?

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist. 

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

The fastest way to waste Hamvention is to treat it like a random walk. We're getting ahead of Dayton with the game plan we wish we had on day one: how to pace the weekend, when to hit the flea market swap meet, how to avoid the worst lines, and why the forums can be the most underrated part of the whole show.

We also catch up from our shacks, because real ham radio life is never just shopping. Rory shares lessons from the Michigan QSO Party and why CW contesting is the best training ground for finally hearing callsigns at speed. James brings the portable angle with travel radio, Parks on the Air stories from Hawaii and the Grand Canyon, and what it takes to make a station work when you're far from home. Jim talks simple antenna building with a 9:1 setup and what he's learning by hosting a club System Fusion repeater and helping keep local machines on the air.

Then we get into the big Hamvention gear energy: ICOM's X-026 concept has the internet buzzing about a mobile rig that could merge HF with VHF/UHF in a clean install. Kenwood's TM-D750A is still the question everyone wants answered. And Yaesu staying quiet has us all guessing what comes next in handhelds and battery life. If you're heading to Dayton, you'll leave with practical tips you can use immediately and a checklist mindset that keeps the weekend fun.

Subscribe for our Hamvention field coverage, share this with a ham who's traveling to Dayton, and leave a review if the show helps you plan smarter.

What's the one thing you refuse to miss at Hamvention this year?

📢 Subscribe & Follow! 🎧 Audio: https://www.everydayham.com 📺 YouTube: @EverydayHam 📷 Instagram: @everydayhampodcast

73!

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist. 

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

Space travel didn't get safer, we just got used to it. That's the feeling driving our Artemis II nerd-out as we watch humans loop the Moon again for the first time since the Apollo era, with Orion pushing distance records and reminding everyone that deep space is still the bleeding edge.

We start with real-life radio talk, because our hobby is built on practical lessons: Jim resets his brain by stepping away from the shack, then immediately buys a Xiegu G90 for a lightweight, throw-it-in-the-car HF kit. Rory shares how getting an antenna outside changes everything, plus the rhythm of QSO party season and adding more CW into the toolbox. James brings field notes from POTA in Hawaii, where being remote changes your expectations, your patience, and especially your battery math.

Then we go full Artemis. We laugh about the one topic every mission forces into the open -- the toilet -- and why creature comforts are actually crew performance issues. We talk Orion's tight quarters, the surprisingly modern feel of mission control, and the communications backbone that keeps the whole thing working. From the Deep Space Network to next-gen optical laser comms, we dig into bandwidth limits and how proven gear like GoPros and a Nikon D5 earns its seat on a moon mission. We bring it back to ham radio with licensed astronauts on the crew, volunteer tracking efforts, and the thrill of hearing space comms piped onto VHF.

Follow Everyday Ham: 🎙 Website: https://www.everydayham.com 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EverydayHam 📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everydayhampodcast/

Don't miss a single episode! Follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, and more -- links at EverydayHam.com.

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist. 

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

Your logging app is not just a logbook anymore, and Ham2K PoLo is proof. We sit down with Sebastián Delmont KI2D, the creator and lead developer of PoLo, right as his Ham2K LoFi cloud sync service goes live. If you have ever exported an ADIF file, emailed it to yourself, merged duplicates, or realized your other device has the QSO you need, this conversation hits home fast.

We dig into what Ham2K LoFi actually does and why syncing ham radio logging data is more complex than tossing files into iCloud. PoLo syncs at the QSO level, has to survive offline activations, and needs to merge cleanly when you reconnect. Sebastián also breaks down the practical side: app store subscription approvals, backend costs, and why he chose a pricing model that stays approachable at $2.99 a month or $24.99 a year, with a free tier designed to cover most operators while protecting server load.

Then we zoom out to the fun part: what sync enables next. Think shared logs for multi-op POTA and SOTA days, QR code log sharing, and a path toward Field Day logging without the laptop maze. We also talk about upcoming tools like a web-based log browser for easy desktop ADIF export, future push uploads to services like QRZ and POTA, and a bigger Log Filer vision that can import ADIF archives and unify your QSO history across sources like Logbook of the World.

If you are looking for a modern ham radio logging workflow that works on iOS, Android, and even Apple Silicon Macs, hit play and come along for the roadmap. Subscribe, share this with a friend or clubmate, and leave a review. What would you want PoLo to automate next?

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist. 

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

A Bird 43 wattmeter score at the swap, two new budget handhelds worth a look, and Rory's CW skills getting sharper through QSO parties and daily POTA hunting set the stage for a packed Episode 15.

FT2 mode is here and it is fast - we're talking 3.75-second transmit/receive cycles and roughly 240 QSOs per hour at peak. But speed costs you something: the weak-signal performance drops significantly compared to FT8, and your time sync has to be nearly perfect. We map out where FT2 makes sense and when you should stick with what works.

Then we head south - way south - to Bouvet Island. The 3Y0K DXpedition has the bands blazing and livestreams running via Starlink. But not every station should be in that pile. We talk strategy and sportsmanship: use PSK Reporter or GridTracker to confirm your signal is actually going that direction before calling, understand how Fox and Hound works, and know when your antenna and geography just are not going to win the slot.

The market news is hard to ignore: significant Yaesu MSRP increases across popular rigs including the FTDX10, FT-891, and FTDX101MP. We break down why tariffs, logistics, component costs, and yen-to-dollar swings are all pushing prices up - and whether waiting for Hamvention deals still makes sense.

Finally, HamClock lives on. After the passing of its creator Elwood, the community moved fast. Hamclock.com (W4BAE) restores the data feeds with redundancy and a simple host file edit. OpenHamClock offers a polished browser-based and self-hosted option. HamVision is an emerging alternative worth watching. And Geochron remains a solid turnkey choice for those who want it to just work.

We wrap with a genuine win from the ARRL: amateur operators are exempted from foreign adversary contact reporting requirements. When the community organizes, good things happen.

Don't miss a single episode! Follow Everyday Ham on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, and more, and subscribe to our YouTube channel at @EverydayHam. Ideas or feedback? Email us at cq@everydayham.com.

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist. 

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

Do you really need that new radio? In Episode 14, James (K8JKU), Jim (N8JRD), and Rory (W8KNX) get honest about the pressure to upgrade ham radio gear and share what they’ve learned from their own buying mistakes.

We begin with a moment of remembrance for Elwood Downey, creator of HamClock, and share what his contributions meant to the community. Then we catch up around the shack — Jim’s new CW trainer, James’s hotel radio experiments from Germany, and Rory’s progress with Morse code through the Long Island CW Club.

The main topic digs into upgrade pressure. Jim confesses his $10K shack might not outperform his old $890 FT-DX10 and $99 end-fed combo. Rory makes the case that antennas matter more than radios. James shares his FTX-1F disappointment and why he went crawling back to his trusted FT-891. The unanimous takeaway: more antenna, less radio.

We also talk BuddiHEX plans, hamfest buying strategies heading into Hamcation and Hamvention season, and preview our upcoming trip to Orlando.

Don’t miss a single episode! Follow the Everyday Ham Podcast on your favorite podcast platform (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, and more) and be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel.

https://www.everydayham.com

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist. 

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

Five watts, a tiny coil antenna on a travel tripod, and a camera-bag station that reaches across states—CW isn't a relic, it's a practical advantage. In this episode, we invited Terry W8TMB to walk us through how he learned Morse code without drowning in drills, why CW pairs perfectly with POTA and QRP, and what actually works when your sending is solid but your copy lags behind.

We compare two popular learning paths: CW Academy and Long Island CW Club. CW Academy offers a free, semester-style program with fixed class times and steady accountability—great if you thrive with structure. Long Island CW Club takes a different approach with flexible, year-round carousels, multiple time slots each week, and an emphasis on getting on the air early. Their $30/year (or $90 lifetime) membership includes about 170 classes per week, a powerful browser-based practice tool, and thoughtful accessibility options for autistic, visually impaired, and hearing-impaired hams.

From there we dig into practical tactics: stop counting dits and dahs—train your ear to recognize full characters. Use Farnsworth spacing to create breathing room. Drill random call signs to break predictability. Send back what you copy immediately to lock it in. Ditch the decoders and cheat sheets; they slow your ear. Code-talk license plates on road trips, work short daily sessions, and aim your practice at real exchanges like POTA and simple contests.

Terry's field kit shows what's possible: a CFT-1 five-band QRP rig, a 3D-printed coil antenna from Ham Radio Duo, and a 16Wh battery that lasted two hours with 75% remaining. As bands shift with the solar cycle, CW keeps you in the game.

🔗 RESOURCES:

• CW Academy: https://cwops.org/cw-academy/
• Long Island CW Club: https://longislandcwclub.org/
• Morse Mania App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/morse-mania-learn-morse-code/id1511042196
• LCWO: https://lcwo.net/
• V-Band: https://hamradio.solutions/vband/

Don't miss an episode! Follow the Everyday Ham Podcast on your favorite podcast platform (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, and more) and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

🎙️ Hosts: James K8JKU, Jim N8JRD, Rory W8KNX Guest: Terry W8TMB

Website: https://www.everydayham.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everydayhampodcast/

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist. 

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

What does 2026 have in store for ham radio? A year into the podcast, James (K8JKU), Jim (N8JRD), and Rory (W8KNX) turn up the dial with a forward look at the hobby's near future — grounded in real gear, real operating, and real community.

We start in the shack with winter POTA prep, a feather-light 33-foot mast, a fiber-fueled network overhaul, and a pair of pristine rotary phones begging for a ham project. Then we get into the predictions.

On the gear side, we share our predictions for what hardware might be on the horizon — what we'd love to see from the major manufacturers and where we think the industry is heading.

But hardware isn't the whole story. POTA and SOTA remain the heartbeat of growth because they lower the barrier to entry and make radio feel alive. We share why portable operating will keep rising even as solar conditions tighten.

At home, we're betting on a repeater revival — AllStar links, creative nets like SSTV nights, and "leave no call unanswered" as the culture shift that keeps VHF/UHF useful and welcoming. College clubs are buzzing again, and the formula scales: be kind, run practical events, and meet people where they are — on-air, at meetups, or on Discord.

AI comes up, minus the hype. Think helpful, not magical: audio-assisted logging, smarter noise control, and developer tooling that speeds up ham software. It's another tool, like a good tuner — valuable when it saves time and stays out of the way.

We wrap with personal goals — Extra class ambitions and a fresh pull toward CW — and a reminder that every license class is valid. The hobby thrives when we celebrate each step and keep the airwaves friendly.

Connect with us:
🌐 Website: https://www.everydayham.com
📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everydayhampodcast/
💬 Discord: Join our community at everydayham.com

What rig are you hoping to see next? How will you help revive your local repeater? Drop your predictions in our Discord or in the comments!

Don't miss a single episode! Follow the Everyday Ham Podcast on your favorite podcast platform (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, and more) and be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist. 

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

A thousand subscribers may be a milestone, but the real win is what it represents: a growing community of hams trading ideas, trying new modes, and pushing for the right to put real antennas on real roofs. We open with momentum—POTA activations, contest firsts, and new video drops—then move straight into the issue shaping the future of the hobby: ARRL’s grassroots effort to pass the Amateur Radio Emergency Preparedness Act (HR 1094/S.459). If HOAs block antennas where most new homes are built, fewer operators will get on the air. We explain the stakes, the opposition from CAI, and the surprisingly easy way to send a letter that reaches your representatives in minutes.

We also get practical about life in the shack and on the road. Running 500 to 1,000 watts through contest weekend revealed where filters shine and where they need tuning, and winter prep is now or never—check matches, weatherproof connectors, and tighten your grounding. On the mobile side, an EV install in a Mach‑E delivered clean VHF/UHF performance with smart power routing and a 3D‑printed head mount, plus notes on AM noise under acceleration. If you’ve avoided EVs for RF reasons, this is a reality check rooted in measurements, not myths.

Gear watchers get plenty to chew on. The Icom IC‑7300 Mark II looks set to land around $1,499, squaring up against the Yaesu FTdx10 with modernized I/O and familiar ease of use. But the U.S. government shutdown is delaying FCC certifications across categories, which could push new radio launches past the holidays. Meanwhile, used IC‑7300 prices are compelling, making it a standout first HF rig. We wrap with FlexRadio’s SmartSDR 4.0—meaningful noise‑reduction improvements, a flexible subscription model, and a few early‑release quirks to monitor.

If you care about the bands staying lively and accessible, this conversation matters. Tune in, tell us if you’re backing the ARRL letter, weigh in on 7300 Mark II vs FTdx10, and share your winter station game plan. Subscribe, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and pass this along to a friend who’s antenna‑curious.

Short show intro audio clip

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The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist. 

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

A better logger doesn't just record contacts—it changes how you operate. We sit down with Sebastián KI2D, creator of Ham2K PoLo, to explore how mobile-first design, tiny UX details, and relentless iteration make portable operating smoother, faster, and less gear-heavy. 

From his journey growing up in Venezuela to building startups in New York—and yes, proposing the Arepa and Olive emojis—Sebastián shares the mindset behind a tool that understands what activators actually do in the field.

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist. 

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

 FlexRadio just announced SmartSDR Plus subscriptions starting at $199/year. Time for an impromptu Saturday morning coffee chat! Join James (K8JKU), Jim (N8JRD), and Rory (W8KNX) as we discuss what this means for ham radio and share our honest opinions. 

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist. 

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

Ever wondered what happens when you combine hiking, mountaineering, and ham radio? That's exactly what Summits on the Air (SOTA) is all about! In this episode, we step away from our usual Parks on the Air discussions to explore the thrilling world of mountaintop radio operations with two accomplished SOTA enthusiasts.

Meet Matt W7MDN, a pilot from Spokane who combines trail running and snowshoeing with radio, and Tim N7KOM, a mountaineer and YouTube creator from Bend who's known for his ultralight setups. Both have achieved the prestigious Mountain Goat award, representing 1,000 activation points earned by operating from mountain summits.

We unpack the fundamental differences between POTA and SOTA – while parks often allow drive-up operations with 100-watt rigs, SOTA requires reaching designated activation zones near peaks with equipment disconnected from vehicles. The equipment philosophy shifts dramatically too, with most SOTA operators using 5-10 watt radios like the MTR3 or Elecraft KX2, paired with lightweight wire antennas that can be quickly deployed.

The conversation dives into the meticulous planning required for SOTA activations, from researching access permissions to preparing for safety contingencies. Matt and Tim share their favorite activation stories, including Matt's Mountain Goat qualification during a January snowshoe expedition and Tim's sunrise celebration atop Mount McLaughlin complete with ceremonial goat horns.

Whether you're an experienced operator looking for a new challenge or simply curious about combining outdoor adventure with radio, this episode provides a comprehensive introduction to SOTA. You'll learn about the points system, equipment recommendations, online resources, and the thriving community that makes this radio sport so rewarding.

Ready to climb a mountain with your radio? This might just be the inspiration you need to earn those summit points and breathtaking views!

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist. 

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

The tides of amateur radio innovation ebb and flow as manufacturers take turns showcasing their latest technological marvels. While Yaesu dominated last year's Tokyo Ham Fair with the FTX1, this year unquestionably belonged to ICOM, who unveiled two significant new radios that have the ham community buzzing with anticipation.

ICOM's IC-7300 Mark II represents a thoughtful evolution of what has become perhaps the most popular HF radio of the past decade. Rather than reinventing the wheel, ICOM listened carefully to user feedback, maintaining the beloved form factor while modernizing crucial aspects. The enhanced receiver offers 12dB better noise performance, addressing one of the few criticisms of the original – its performance in crowded band conditions. Lower power consumption and 23% less heat generation make it more field-operation friendly, while connectivity gets a complete overhaul with HDMI output, USB-C with dual COM functionality, and SMA receiver antenna ports.

Equally exciting is the ID-5200 mobile radio, which finally brings ICOM's VHF/UHF mobile lineup into the modern era with a vibrant color touchscreen replacing the aging monochrome display of the ID-5100. Evidence suggests it may include native APRS functionality – a feature long requested by ICOM users – alongside Wi-Fi for internal D-STAR gateway functionality without requiring an external hotspot. Though still "under glass" as a concept, this hybrid-interface radio maintains ICOM's reputation for intuitive menu systems while adding modern connectivity options.

Perhaps most encouraging for the hobby was Uniden's return to the Ham Fair after a 40-year absence, potentially signaling renewed corporate interest in amateur radio markets. As manufacturers continue pushing innovation forward with substantial upgrades rather than incremental changes, there's never been a more exciting time to explore the evolving world of amateur radio technology. Which of these new offerings has captured your interest, and what features would you like to see in future ham radio developments?

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The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist. 

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

Title: Ham Radio Spectrum Defense & The End of NOAA APT Era

Is amateur radio spectrum under siege? James (K8JKU), Jim (N8JRD), and Rory (W8KNX) tackle the controversial FCC experimental license granted to AST SpaceMobile that threatens our 70cm amateur band.

This episode covers the growing concern over spectrum encroachment, what the ARRL is doing to defend our frequencies, and why every ham needs to contact their representatives. We also discuss Jim's hands-on experience with the Flex 6400 ATU and bid farewell to the legendary NOAA-15 and NOAA-19 satellites.

Topics: Spectrum defense, FCC policy, emergency communications, amateur radio advocacy, satellite operations, and the importance of congressional outreach for protecting our hobby.

Visit EverydayHam.com for show notes and join our Discord community!

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist. 

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

We have a very special treat for you! In this exclusive interview recorded during EAA AirVenture, we sit down with amateur radio industry veteran Ray Novak, N9JA. Surrounded by warbirds, fighter jets, and the constant buzz of the Oshkosh Air Show, Ray offers a fascinating glimpse into his world at the intersection of aviation and amateur radio.

Broadcasting from his impressive mobile setup – complete with a hex beam antenna towering 35 feet above his motorcoach – Ray shares incredible personal stories and experiences that bridge decades of radio evolution. From his journey as a Mississippi farm boy who avoided computer programming because it meant "wearing a suit and tie" to becoming a key figure in amateur radio manufacturing, Ray's path mirrors the transformation of radio technology itself.

Episode Highlights:

• Ray's transition from MFJ (nearly 300 hamfests!) to major radio manufacturer
• Behind-the-scenes stories from 30+ years in the amateur radio industry
• Technical insights on radio development and open protocols
• IC-7760 development challenges during COVID disruptions
• Remote operation capabilities that let you control your home station worldwide
• Getting young people excited about amateur radio at special event station W9W
• Tales from technical support (hint: upcoming episode!)

Unique Audio Experience: As young visitors stop by the Warbirds of America special event station W9W, you'll witness firsthand how these operations kindle technical curiosity in the next generation. Between thunderous F-35 flybys and impromptu visits from fellow aviation enthusiasts, this conversation captures the spirit of amateur radio at its best – technically sophisticated yet thoroughly human, preserving tradition while embracing innovation.

Hosted by: James Mills K8JKU, Jim Davis N8JRD, and Rory Locke W8KNX

What's your journey in amateur radio? Have you experienced the thrill of operating from a special event station or explored remote operation? Visit everydayham.com for show notes and links, and follow us on Instagram @everydayhampodcast. Share your stories – we'd love to hear how radio has connected your world!

Note: You'll hear authentic airshow sounds and may notice occasional audio delays due to the remote connection from Oshkosh. Nothing's perfect, but that authentic atmosphere adds to the experience!

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist. 

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

What happens when the "Super Bowl of Amateur Radio" meets poor band conditions? The Everyday Ham team breaks down their 2025 ARRL Field Day experience with honest reflection about what worked, what didn't, and why it still matters.

Despite challenging propagation that made 20 meters nearly useless, our South Lyon Area Amateur Radio Club (SLAARC) field operation managed 680 QSOs with 16 operators including several first-timers making their debut HF contacts. The camaraderie and mentorship moments proved more memorable than any score could reflect.

Our equipment choices sparked fascinating discussion about the evolution of field operations. We deployed simple yet effective antennas including Aerial-51 off-center fed dipoles on SOTA-beam masts and a remarkable military surplus 40-meter vertical built from scrap aluminum by silent key Larry K8UT that outperformed expectations. All stations used FTDX10 radios - a choice we explain after detailing our final journey away from problematic FTX1 models and praising Ham Radio Outlet's exceptional customer service.

The most thought-provoking segment explores whether POTA is replacing traditional Field Day. With outdoor portable operation now happening year-round, we question how ARRL might evolve Field Day to maintain relevance, particularly addressing the controversial 1D station rules. An 82-year-old ham's perspective that "POTA is the future of ham radio" launches us into examining the balance between contesting, emergency practice, and social connection.

Join us for laughs about Jim's abandoned attempt to backpack a DX10 to Mackinac Island, heated debates about "please copy" Field Day etiquette, and news about our exciting guest for Episode 8 - someone from one of the "big three" manufacturers you won't want to miss!

Subscribe: https://www.everydayham.com

If you enjoy the Everyday Ham Podcast, please leave a five-star review - it helps others find us and keeps this conversation growing.

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist. 

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

The long-awaited Yaesu FTX1 Optima has finally arrived in ham shacks across America, but does it live up to the hype? We've spent days testing Yaesu's latest flagship and share our unfiltered experiences that left us reaching for our trusty FT-891s instead. From PTT issues that drop mid-transmission to strange menu bugs and disappointing receiver performance compared to the FT-710 and FT-DX10, we dive deep into what went wrong and whether firmware updates can save this premium-priced radio.

In a surprising market development, we explore the news that SteppIR has announced their exit from the amateur radio consumer market by August 2025. Their CEO cites an aging ham population moving to stealth antennas as HOAs restrict traditional towers. Is this the beginning of a larger trend in ham radio manufacturing following MFJ's recent exit, or simply market evolution as the hobby changes?

Summer is here, and that means Field Day is just around the corner! Whether you're a newly licensed ham nervous about your first HF contact or an experienced operator looking to test emergency preparedness, we share why Field Day (June 28-29) offers something for everyone. From operating tips to overcoming microphone fright, discover why this annual event remains amateur radio's most beloved gathering.

The amateur radio landscape continues to shift, with new technologies promising innovation while established companies retreat from changing markets. Through it all, what matters most is finding the gear and activities that spark joy in your radio journey. What's working for you this summer?

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist. 

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

The Dayton Hamvention 2025 delivered on every front as we explored Xenia's grounds with our South Lion Area Amateur Radio Club members in their distinctive yellow shirts. This year's highlights included the Kenwood TH-D750 triple-band mobile with its built-in D-STAR hotspot and accessibility features, Flex Radio's impressive Aurora series with integrated 500-watt amplifiers starting at $6,199, and our realization that premium ham equipment now commands significantly higher prices—sparking discussions about value, longevity, and manufacturer support.

Beyond the technology, Hamvention's true magic came through personal connections: chance encounters with podcast listeners, meeting Sebastian KI2D (developer of Ham2K Polo software), and our club's social events at Caesar Creek campground. Join us for more connections at the Michigan POTA meetup on June 7th at Fort Custer State Recreation Area, and share your experiences with TSA's new 100Wh lithium battery restrictions on our new Discord server at everydayham.com!

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist. 

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

Is the Yaesu FTX-1F a True Game Changer? Plus Dayton Hamvention 2025

Yaesu has shaken the amateur radio world with the release of their new FTX-1F series, particularly the Optima model with its revolutionary modular design. We explore the groundbreaking features that have hams reaching for their wallets—from the detachable QRP head unit that can operate standalone, to the 100-watt amplifier attachment that makes this one of the most versatile radios ever produced. 

Rory takes us through his Michigan QSO Party adventure in Oscoda County, where he activated a rare county from a cozy Airbnb near Luzerne. Despite challenging band conditions, he managed to work over 40 Michigan counties and came away with a respectable score. His experiences highlight the perfect use case for Yaesu's new offering—a radio that can transition seamlessly from powerful base station to lightweight field unit. 

With Hamvention rapidly approaching, we share our strategies for making the most of ham radio's biggest event. From forum recommendations (don't miss the POTA sessions!) to flea market tactics and practical advice about staying comfortable in the heat, we offer insights that will help first-timers and veterans alike. We'll be camping at Caesar Creek in the D-E loops and would love to meet listeners who are attending. 

The FTX-1F Optima's impressive feature set includes dual antenna ports, built-in antenna tuner with memory, and modern USB-C connectivity for both data and power delivery. While not perfect—no true dual receive for satellite operations and no separation cable option for mobile installation—the radio represents a significant leap forward in transceiver design that may influence the direction of amateur radio equipment for years to come. 

Grab your comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and shopping list—we're heading to Hamvention! We'll be recording short segments throughout the event to capture the excitement and innovation that makes this gathering the highlight of the ham radio calendar. Whether you're chasing the latest gear or hunting vintage treasures in the flea market, we hope to see you there.

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist. 

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

In this episode of Everyday Ham, we explore how everyday hobbies — from scanning police channels to using walkie-talkies with friends — can spark a lifelong interest in amateur radio. James (K8JKU), Jim (N8JRD), and Rory (W8KNX) share their personal journeys into the hobby, along with highlights (and regrets) from the recent Toledo Hamfest. We also talk storm preparedness, building your first antenna, and why welcoming new hams matters more than ever. Whether you're a seasoned operator or radio-curious, this one’s for you.

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist. 

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

In this episode of Everyday Ham, James (K8JKU), Rory (W8KNX), and Jim (N8JRD) dive into the highs and lows of ham swaps, sharing their experiences from the Livonia Amateur Radio Club Swap & Shop. They break down the best strategies for scoring great deals, avoiding overpriced junk, and navigating the chaos of a busy swap meet.

But that’s not all—this episode also tackles a hot debate in the POTA and DX community. A recent Costa Rica DXpedition sparked controversy when operators skipped formal park number exchanges, leaving some POTA chasers frustrated. Was this a case of bad operating, or are people missing the point of a DXpedition? The guys share their takes on POTA etiquette, fast-paced activations, and why every ham should embrace the "work them how they work you" mindset.

Plus, Jim takes his first steps into the world of DMR radio, Rory shares his contesting victories, and the crew discusses the best upcoming swap meets and why every ham should attend at least one.

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist. 

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

As Yaesu navigates a shift in its mobile radio lineup, we're here to dissect the implications of these changes. From the unexpected discontinuation of older models to the buzz surrounding the anticipated FTX-1F release, we examine what this means for the future of mobile communication. Dive into the amateur radio community's reactions and ponder Yaesu's strategic moves with us. We'll discuss the groundbreaking advancements in audio signal processing, especially their potential to enhance emergency communications, and consider how these innovations could transform the market.

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist. 

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

Welcome to the inaugural episode of Everyday Ham! Join James, Rory, and Jim as they introduce themselves, share their ham radio journeys, and discuss the diversity of this amazing hobby. From family legacies to rediscovering ham radio after years away, they explore what drew them to the airwaves. They also dive into their goals for 2025, like tackling CW, and preparing for the ultimate ham pilgrimage—Dayton Hamvention. This casual, conversational episode is a perfect starting point for new and seasoned hams alike. 

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist. 

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/