As we say goodbye to this iteration of the podcast, I leave you as host of the AmCon show and bid you farewell by saying goodbye how I said hello - with Thom and I outlining what we've done, what we are doing, and what we will do as AmCon sets its sights on goals you can help us fulfill by becoming active in your local area and being the leader we all know you will be once you step outside your comfort zone.

Let's do this one more time, and then it's up to all of y'all to help us make this happen.

It's not goodbye...just see you later.

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

You know, like, have water and food for everyone in your house for a week. Have a way to start a fire when it is wet. Run straight at bears and alligators because why not?!

In this episode, I will laugh at, with, and about some of the most popular myths I found on the inter-webs as I researched this topic.

Sit by the fire with me. This is gonna make you laugh...well, at least it did me.

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

In this week's episode, we welcome AmCon's own Chad Davis from the Southeast region to discuss mental health and wellness. He has years of experience in this field as a mental health counselor and leads our mental resilience training subgroup inside the common interest groups. Go join and check out that group if you are interested in more information we discuss during this episode.

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

Do you want to gain experience through doing, not just talking and watching? Then, the AmCon Challenge is the place for you.

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

When you're ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We're here when you're ready. We'll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

We also discuss the importance of medical preparedness, covering everything from keeping medical records handy to ensuring you have a well-stocked first aid kit and managing medications during long-term power outages. Finally, we discuss the crucial steps for securing essential documents like passports and birth certificates and how to maintain updated emergency contact information. This episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you guide your loved ones toward better preparedness and security.

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

Whether you're navigating a crowded city street, a bustling park, or enjoying time with family at home, this episode will teach you how to stay one step ahead and transform awareness into your superpower. Tune in to learn how you can harness these insights to protect yourself and your loved ones in any situation!

I'll cover key points, such as the importance of having at least two weeks' worth of non-perishable food and water, steps to fortify your home against severe weather, and the benefits of establishing a community network for sharing resources during crises. 

When you're ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We're here when you're ready. We'll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

AmCon celebrates four years of informing, equipping, and training people by preparing you, helping you grow, and offering everyone an opportunity to share their experiences of responding, supporting, and recovering. In this episode, I will discuss all the ways the internet can confuse where we clarify. Where the statistics say we are not focusing on the entire family supporting their preparation. When is now the time to start adding resources to your cache so you can be ready when it's past the time to get prepared?

When you're ready to PREPARE, GROW, and SHARE by building the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We're here when you're ready, and we'll keep the fire going so you can find your way.

Regardless of your political, religious, or cultural background or affiliation, you are welcome here as long as you stand with us in our values and mission. We believe in being there for one another, preparing to be our own first responders, valuing honesty and trustworthiness, and being open to hearing diverse opinions.

American Contingency brings value to every member, but you have to take action. By actively participating and connecting with your community, you can fully experience the support, knowledge, and preparedness that AmCon offers. Remember, we are a community built on active involvement and mutual support.

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

I have Thom and the American Contingency community. Who do you have? You can never have enough information when vicious weather systems are raging in your community. I text Thom when the alerts go off, and he relays information to me using the apps I discuss in this episode, which I will list below. 

When Mother Nature turns her eye toward you, how are you obtaining the information that will help you make decisions that can directly affect the emotions happening in your home and those of your friends and neighbors who could be in a panic state? You probably don't have Thom's phone number, but you won't need it with these apps. Now you will know what we know, which, time and time again, has helped my family traverse the booms of thunder and the feelings of electricity rushing through our bodies as lightning hits the ground in our neighborhood.

Radar Apps:

1. American Contingency: Weather tracking team: AmericanContingency.com
2. Youtube Weather Tracker: Ryan Hayy Y'all
   1. https://www.youtube.com/@RyanHallYall
3. Weather Underground (has phone app): https://www.wunderground.com/
4. Radar Scope (has phone app): 
   1. https://shop.radarscope.app/tag/radarscope-pro/
5. Radar Omega (has phone app)
   1. https://www.radaromega.com/
6. IEM-bot
   1. https://weather.im/iembot/
7. Tornado (Red Cross app)
   1. https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/mobile-apps.html
8. Local weather apps
   1. Search for your local news stations app 
9. Storm Radar Weather Tracker
   1. https://www.accuweather.com/en/us/huntsville/35801/weather-radar/326704

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

When you're ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com. 

Today, I delve into the dual nature of these influential emotions, anxiety, judgment, and anger, exploring how they can both propel us forward and hold us back. From the motivational drive that anxiety can provide to the critical thinking fueled by judgment and the change spurred by anger, we uncover the positive aspects that these emotions can bring to our lives and preparedness. Yet, we also navigate through their darker sides, including the paralysis brought on by excessive anxiety, the conflict stemming from harsh judgment, and the potential for relationship strain due to unmanaged anger.

Join us as we unpack the complexities of these emotions, offering insights into how we can harness their power for personal growth while also recognizing the importance of managing them to avoid the negative impacts on our health and relationships.

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next, join us at AmericanContingency.com. We’re here when you’re ready. We’ll keep the fire going for you so you can find your way.

In this episode, I talk to member Max Williams about HAM radio, how to maintain communication and information exchange during a crisis, the scope of the legalities and licensing with amateur radio and how you can get started in this mode of communication that has been critical to disaster response and recovery for so many when they need it most.

Get ready to build the skills, the network and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com.

https://americancontingency.com/

The website mentioned in the show: https://hamstudy.org/

Click here and join today for seriously, so affordably, you'll wonder why you haven't joined already. This adventure challenge is not to be missed! JOIN TODAY!

When you're ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com. 

Join American Contingency and be a part of something bigger than all of us!

In this episode, I will introduce you to why having the essentials of a home-based medical kit empowers you to take control during emergencies right in your own living room. We'll navigate through the chaos of crisis scenarios, focusing on rapid, confident decision-making skills. And for the young ones? We're exploring how teaching basic first aid can plant seeds of responsibility, confidence, and community spirit.

Do you wonder what you would do when it is time to put your money where your mouth is? Join me for a journey filled with practical tips, key insights into emotional resilience, and empowering strategies designed to help you build your resilience fortress, one brick at a time. Get ready to turn life's challenges into opportunities for growth and strength.

When you're ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com.

https://members.americancontingency.com/join/

https://www.americancontingency.com/

Join us as we discuss strategies across our 12 different preparedness categories, delving into the nuances of personal and family preparedness, emphasizing the significance of clear medical communication, the development of thorough emergency plans, and the upkeep of physical and mental health in stressful situations.

I'll then transition into the realm of community involvement and the pivotal role of technology, exploring how leaders can effectively orchestrate information flow and resource allocation while leveraging digital and analog tools for timely updates and essential connectivity. Lastly, I'll touch on specialized skills and external considerations vital for weather-related crises, including indispensable outdoor survival skills, food and water safety strategies, and defense tactics. This episode is an essential guide, offering invaluable insights for anyone looking to enhance their readiness for unpredictable weather challenges.

Stay informed, stay prepared, and join the conversation as we tackle one of the most pressing issues of our time – communicating effectively through the storm. Subscribe to the American Contingency Podcast for more in-depth discussions on preparedness and resilience.

When you're ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com.

https://members.americancontingency.com/join/

In this episode, we welcome back Thom Rigsby to discuss the Adventure Challenge and what AmCon has in store for our members in 2024.

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com.

https://members.americancontingency.com/join/

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com.

https://members.americancontingency.com/join/

Along the way, we'll challenge you to dig deeper, uncovering the real questions behind your concerns and moving from a state of disempowerment to one of proactive empowerment. Are you taking control of your life or playing the blame game? This episode is not just about surviving; it's about thriving, taking responsibility, and adopting a victor mentality. Join us as we empower you to transform challenges into opportunities for growth and find balance, no matter what life throws your way.

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com. 

If you feel like you are nowhere near ready for the unexpected like you are only sorta prepared for any given Tuesday, or maybe you are all the way into being prepared, and you desire to help others - no matter what stage you are in, we are the community for you!

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com.

Become a member today --> https://bit.ly/JoinAmConHere

Learn more about AmCon from Mike Glover -- > https://bit.ly/mikegloveramcon

Just hit play and discover key pointers for growing your own leadership skills so when you need to be ready, you are ready, and you never have to say sorry to your loved ones for not being prepared for the unknown...and often very known.

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com. 

Mario Q (Southeast Regional Coordinator) has a unique perspective as someone born in Central America, where he lived for the first 20 years before immigrating to the United States, gaining citizenship, and serving in the Marines. He knows what it is like to watch your country fall beyond civil unrest and into the darkness of civilization breakdown.

He and I discuss our Constitution's beautiful document, the gratitude one can have for a feast with friends and family, and how you can seek optimism by following a higher calling than yourself.

Just hit play and gain new insights into how all adversity is opportunity disguised as hard work, resiliency, and faith.

When you're ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be prepared for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com.

Become a member today --> https://bit.ly/JoinAmConHere

Learn more about AmCon from Mike Glover -- > https://bit.ly/mikegloveramcon

The 7 Principles:

Develop a Growth Mindset Cultivate Courage Be Decisive Take Action Embrace Discipline Exercise Flexibility Embody Tenaciousness

The 12 Categories:

1. Communication 
2. Medical
3. Security 
4. Mobility
5. Food & Water
6. Income & Economics 
7. Health
8. Community Leadership
9. Outdoor Skills
10. Situational Awareness
11. Defense
12. Home & Family

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com.

Become a member today --> https://bit.ly/JoinAmConHere

Learn more about AmCon from Mike Glover -- > https://bit.ly/mikegloveramcon

If you are ready to learn more about the ease with which you can get into the terrestrial communication devices world, then Cecil Higgins is your man - and, thankfully, on our AmCon team. With experiences around the country and world, like over 100 instances, helping communities set up emergency communication - Cecil has forgotten more acronyms around handheld and ham radio operations than I'll ever know.

Just hit play, and let's prepare you to respond with your own ham radio...spoiler alert...you can get in on this game for less than $50!! Now, come on, man!! That is ridiculously low!!

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com.

Become a member today --> https://bit.ly/JoinAmConHere

Learn more about AmCon from Mike Glover -- > https://bit.ly/mikegloveramcon

But here's the kicker – it's not just about the headline-grabbing catastrophes. It's about those more minor, everyday disruptions that can still throw us for a loop—like misplacing your wallet, dealing with a sudden pet health emergency, or even facing a data breach that leaves you feeling vulnerable.

In today's episode, we're not only talking about the big disasters that demand our attention but also diving into the realm of the everyday unexpected. 

From Epi-Pens to insulin storage, to preparing for the worst with a comprehensive emergency food supply, to honing the art of active listening for stronger relationships, we're covering various topics that fit into the framework of the 12 essential categories for readiness.

We're tossing in a discussion on cultivating strong neighborhood bonds because community resilience goes hand in hand with personal preparedness. 

So, join us as we unravel the layers of preparedness – both for the blockbuster calamities and the everyday hiccups. Because, in the grand theater of life, you never know when you'll need to rise to the occasion, ready for whatever comes your way. This is a podcast that embraces the "any given Tuesday" mindset – where being prepared is the name of the game.

Welcome to National Preparedness Month - Let's explore the world of readiness together.

His overall message of family and community is one echoed in the halls of AmCon and throughout our member nation. With his guidance, you can prepare practically, like on a budget, and develop your own plan and strategy to handle your business when Mother Nature or man sends your life down a spiral.

Just hit play, and let's all learn more practical ways to prepare and plan for the unexpected.

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com

Become a member today --> https://bit.ly/JoinAmConHere

Learn more about AmCon from Mike Glover -- > https://bit.ly/mikegloveramcon

So let's explore preparations for one frequently encountered situation - power outages and one less frequent situation - lightning strikes. The strategies we've curated for each of these scenarios will offer substantial enhancements to your overall preparedness.

As an added bonus I'll dive into the intriguing phenomenon of lightning origination. The process begins within storm clouds, where electrical charges separate. The upper regions typically hold positive charges while the lower regions become negatively charged. When this charge difference reaches a certain threshold, a discharge, or what we commonly refer to as lightning, occurs. Despite popular belief, this brilliant spectacle involves ionized paths both descending from the clouds and ascending from the ground, creating a spectacular display of nature's power.

Here's a small sample of what's ahead:

Lightning Strike Preparations:

1. Lightning Rods: Lightning can cause severe property damage and fires. Lightning rods safely direct the electricity away from your home.
2. Surge Protectors: Lightning-induced power surges can destroy electronics. Surge protectors safeguard your valuable devices.
3. Evacuation Plan: Knowing where to take shelter can protect you from potential harm, including electrical shock or fire caused by lightning strikes.

Power Outage Preparations:

1. Emergency Lighting: In power outages, lighting is critical for safety and maintaining normal activities. Without it, accidents can happen and routine tasks become difficult.
2. Portable Chargers/Battery Packs: Keeping devices powered is essential for communication, getting updates, and preserving morale during outages.
3. Non-Perishable Food and Water: A power outage can last several days. Access to food and clean water is vital for maintaining health and wellbeing.

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com

It's one thing to read, listen, and learn. It is a whole other situation to be run through the scenario with the expectation one will demonstrate capability and competence in the simulated man-made or natural disaster situation. 

Hit play and hear direct, real world experiences about how training, community leadership, and situational awareness have guided Derek and his region to being further prepared to respond and recover.

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com.

Become a member today --> https://bit.ly/JoinAmConHere

Learn more about AmCon from Mike Glover -- > https://bit.ly/mikegloveramcon

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com.

https://members.americancontingency.com/join/

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com.

https://members.americancontingency.com/join/

In this week's episode we welcome to the show AmCon's own, Michael Lott. He works directly with the regional coordinators and continues to support the growth of American Contingency through his own perseverance and belief in God, family, and community.

Be the change you want to see in the world and just hit play!

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com.

Join AmCon today!

Shifting gears, we explore vehicle security, providing insights into small habits and devices that can significantly decrease the likelihood of theft or break-ins. We then outline the significance of a family safety plan, emphasizing its role as a lifeline in emergencies and the importance of regular practice drills to familiarize all family members with the plan. Our discussion on defensive skills underscores the power of being prepared to protect oneself when necessary, acknowledging the psychological reassurance that comes with it.

Finally, we move on to safe travel practices. Here we underline the importance of thorough research and careful handling of personal belongings, reminding listeners that the principles of security awareness are universal and applicable in any location. Be sure to tune in for a comprehensive look into these vital topics.

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com.

In this week's episode we welcome to the show, Lori Marino, the National Marketing Director for American Contingency.

She is directly over all the social media and blogs posts that we roll out for our members and for our public followers.

We are going to cover community leadership, communication, psychological residency, and preparedness so we can all know how we can be there for ourselves and our loved ones when life goes sideway...and we never know when that might happen.

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com!

website: 

https://www.americancontingency.com

Join:

 https://members.americancontingency.com/join/

First up is communication. Let's be real, without communication, we'd all be screwed. So, our tip is to create a communication plan with your family and friends, and make sure you've got backup methods of communication in case the phones go down. We're talking walkie-talkies, carrier pigeons, whatever works for you.

Next, medical. We're not saying you need to go to med school, but having some basic medical knowledge and supplies could save a life. So, build a first aid kit and take a first aid or CPR course.

Security is important too. You don't want to be caught off guard when things get hairy. Invest in some home security measures, and maybe take a self-defense course. Just don't turn into Jason Bourne, okay...unless I'm with you then you do you.

Mobility is also key. You never know when you'll need to get up and go. So, pack a "go bag" with essential supplies and practice your emergency driving skills. Just remember, we're not responsible for any speeding tickets.

Food and water are obvious, but often overlooked. Make sure you've got enough non-perishable food and water for at least three days, and learn how to purify water from alternative sources. Rainwater doesn't count as a cocktail, sorry.

Money makes the world go round, and that includes emergency situations. Build up an emergency fund, diversify your income streams, and keep an eye on the stock market. Or don't, we're not financial advisors.

Your health is also important. Make sure you've got a supply of essential medications and create a mental health plan that includes self-care practices and professional support. Yoga, therapy, and meditation are all fair game.

Community leadership is crucial in times of crisis. Get involved with local emergency preparedness efforts or volunteer with organizations that provide disaster relief. Maybe you'll be the next mayor, who knows?

Outdoor skills can also come in handy. Learn basic outdoor skills such as building a fire, identifying edible plants, and orienteering. Just make sure you don't poison yourself with the plants, we're not liable for that either.

Situational awareness is also key. Stay informed of potential hazards and practice regular "situational checks" to stay aware of potential threats or dangers. Just don't be too paranoid, tin foil hats went out of style in the 80s.

Defense is another important category. Consider purchasing defensive tools such as pepper spray or a firearm (if legally permitted and properly trained), and practice situational awareness and de-escalation techniques. This is the time to let your inner Rambo come out!

Finally, home and family. Create a family emergency plan and practice emergency drills with all household members. Also, make sure your home is properly insured and take steps to protect it against potential natural disasters. We're not saying you need a moat, but it couldn't hurt. Bonus points for alligators in it.

Okay my fellow preparedness and ready-ers...When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com. 

In this episode Noell and I cover how knowing how to start a fire is essential to staying warm and cooking food when in survival mode. We cover the importance of being financially prepared, having healthy  communication with your neighbors, and being well-rounded to handle any challenge.

Noell emphasizes that emergencies can happen to anyone, so it's crucial to plan for the worst and hope for the best. AmCon encourages everyone to be prepared, to not turn people away when they are thirsty, and be compassionate during an emergency.

Remember to plan for the worst and hope for the best, and always be there to help others in need - because you never know when you will be the one knocking asking for help.

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com. 

In this episode we discuss starting small and growing your preparedness game step by step rather than seeing it as this super huge project to take on.

We also cover why being prepared can mean never have to say, "I'm sorry."

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com. 

Building confidence despite the anxiety of those around you is going to pay dividends when everyone else is yelling, "the sky is falling."

In this episode we discuss how to have a conversation with your friends and family about getting prepared and ready without them looking at you like you are wearing a tin-foil hat.

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com. 

Face uncertainty with confidence with a nationwide network of people just like yourself who are seeking the information they need to get ready before they have to be ready.

Hear how American Contingency works with communities, law enforcement, and first-responders to be a part of the solution!

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next - join us…at AmericanContingency.com.

In this episode we will discuss why we are launching the podcast, what kinds of topics we will cover, and when is now the best time to start preparing and getting ready for the unknown - all without the fear-mongering!

We have a dedicated membership site that focuses on making sure you have the information, resources, and community fellowship we desire when the chips are down and self-sufficiency becomes our only way through the unexpected.

Every month we cover our 12 primary topics:

Communications Medical  Security Mobility Food & Water Income & Economics Health Community Leadership Outdoor Skills Situational Awareness Defense Home & Family

When you’re ready to build the skills, network, and confidence to be ready for whatever comes next - join us at AmericanContingency.com.