Prepping Academy

Send us Fan MailIn today's episode, we discuss the impacts of food production caused by the war in Iran. Natural gas from the Middle East is a key component in chemical fertilizers. What would a world without chemical fertilizers look like? How long would it take us to convert to regenerative farming practices? Are you prepared for the disruptions in toxic agriculture? What are some practical steps you can take to start building healthy soil and building topsoil to grow some part of your own food? Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.netPrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins.PrepperNet Support the showPlease give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Daily deals for preppers, survivalists, off-gridders, homesteaders  https://prepperfinds.comContact us:  https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store:  https://amzn.to/3lheTRTwww.forrestgarvin.com

Send a textIn this episode, Patrick from Grid Down Comms UP looks at an awesome new software to move your Area Study into the 21st century. No more kindergarten crayons and construction paper, a real solution to your Areas Study mapping needs. Area Study Map is a personal reconnaissance tool that runs entirely in your browser — no accounts, no cloud, no data leaving your machine. Map population density, mark water sources, log supply caches, and build layered intelligence overlays for the terrain that matters most: yours. When cell towers go dark and roads close, the people who already know their ground are the ones who stay ahead. This isn't paranoia — it's the most practical thing you can do before you need to.Get $50 OFF with our coupon: GRIDDOWNCOMMSUPor just use this link:https://areastudymap.com/?coupon=GRIDDOWNCOMMSUP Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.netPrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparin

Send a textSelco Begovic - Survivor of the Balkan War - SHTF Expert!  PART 2 InterviewSelco Begovic, a survivor of the tumultuous Balkan war in the 1990s, endured the daunting challenges of living in a besieged city without access to necessities like electricity, running water, and food distribution. Today, he shares his firsthand experiences through physical courses, offering invaluable insights for those eager to learn from his real-life ordeal.Through his online writings, Selco offers an unfiltered view of the brutal realities of survival in extreme conditions. With candid assessments of effective strategies and lessons learned from his trials, he also discusses contemporary preparations for uncertain times.Continuing his relentless pursuit of survival knowledge since the war, Selco provides a unique opportunity for others to glean from his experiences, even if they may never face such extreme circumstances.Explore Selco's articles, purchase his PDF books, including the highly acclaimed "The Dark

Send us a textPatrick with @griddowncomms - Winter Storm FernPatrick with @griddowncomms takes the microphone again for an after-action report on winter storm Fern and a few rants along the way. In the communications portion of today's show, we discuss shortcomings of some popular but perhaps misguided online communications advice. Next up, we discuss the political impact of disasters. In this case, Winter Storm Fern. The leadership in your area has a massive impact on recovery, and political parties and the urban vs. rural mindset determine your outcome. Last, we discussed tips and lessons learned for power, heat, and staying warm in a prolonged grid down. Many of us prep for a few days to a week in winter storms, but an ice storm combined with terrible leadership could leave you in the cold and dark for weeks at a time. How will you prepare for a winter weather disaster?Links mentioned in the show:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3yTAw5E_xSUhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hdEtJnVY4qENext week:  Encore E

Send us a textSelco Begovic - Survivor of the Balkan War - SHTF Expert!  PART 1 InterviewSelco Begovic, a survivor of the tumultuous Balkan war in the 1990s, endured the daunting challenges of living in a besieged city without access to necessities like electricity, running water, and food distribution. Today, he shares his firsthand experiences through physical courses, offering invaluable insights for those eager to learn from his real-life ordeal.Through his online writings, Selco offers an unfiltered view of the brutal realities of survival in extreme conditions. With candid assessments of effective strategies and lessons learned from his trials, he also discusses contemporary preparations for uncertain times.Continuing his relentless pursuit of survival knowledge since the war, Selco provides a unique opportunity for others to glean from his experiences, even if they may never face such extreme circumstances.Explore Selco's articles, purchase his PDF books, including the highly acclaimed "The D

Send us a textIn today's episode, Patrick with Grid Down Comms Up discusses winter preps and observations from last week's Verizon Wireless outage. With a massive winter storm on the horizon, determining how much heat and fuel you need is critical to being prepared. Electricity for critical power needs from batteries and generators can keep us operational and provide a bit of normalcy. Are you ready? Observations from the recent Verizon outage include second- and third-order impacts of a fragile telecommunications system, and considerations as our systems become more fragile and have lower uptime than the historical norm. Do you have a plan for conducting business and coordinating with loved ones when a surprise software glitch disrupts your day?  Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.netPrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins.PrepperNet Support the showPlease give us 5 Sta

Send us a textSelco Begovic, a survivor of the tumultuous Balkan war in the 1990s, endured the daunting challenges of living in a besieged city without access to basic necessities like electricity, running water, and food distribution. Today, he shares his firsthand experiences through physical courses, offering invaluable insights for those eager to learn from his real-life ordeal.Through his online writings, Selco offers an unfiltered view into the brutal realities of survival in extreme conditions. With candid assessments of effective strategies and lessons learned from his trials, he also discusses contemporary preparations for uncertain times.Continuing his relentless pursuit of survival knowledge since the war, Selco provides a unique opportunity for others to glean from his experiences, even if they may never face such extreme circumstances themselves.Explore Selco's articles, purchase his PDF books, including the highly acclaimed "The Dark Secrets of Survival," or dive deep into his exp

Send us a textDr. Arthur Bradley - NASA Engineer & EMP / CME Expert Dr. Arthur Bradley is a NASA engineer and the bestselling author of the Handbook to Practical Disaster Preparedness for the Family, the Prepper's Instruction Manual, Disaster Preparedness for EMP Attacks and Solar Storms, and the post-apocalyptic series, The Survivalist. Visit him online for free disaster preparedness information at http://disasterpreparer.com. EMF Beacon:  https://emfbeacon.com/Dr. Bradley's New Book:  The Watchman- https://amzn.to/46GGWwn Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.netPrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins.PrepperNet Support the showPlease give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Daily deals for preppers, survivalists, off-gridders, homesteaders https://prepperfinds.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lhe

Send us a textPrivacy Email — Taking Control of Your InboxIn this episode of The Privacy & Freedom Podcast, Forrest Garvin pulls back the curtain on one of the most overlooked privacy vulnerabilities — your email address. That single piece of digital identity connects your banking, shopping, social media, and even government records. If your email isn’t private, nothing else truly is.Forrest breaks down why your inbox is the #1 gateway for data collection, surveillance, and hacking attempts — and how to protect it. You’ll learn how major tech companies use email data to build marketing profiles, how data brokers trace every online registration back to you, and why “free” email accounts come at the cost of your personal freedom.He walks you through practical solutions — from alias-based addresses and encrypted email providers to domain masking, burner accounts, and password segmentation. Forrest explains how to layer your communications using services like ProtonMail, StartMail, and SimpleLogin, and why se

Send us a textAnonymous LLCs — Separating Your Name from Your AssetsIn this episode of The Privacy & Freedom Podcast, Forrest Garvin takes you deep into one of the most powerful — and misunderstood — tools for modern privacy and asset protection: the Anonymous LLC. Also known as a “Ghost LLC,” this structure allows you to legally own property, businesses, and assets without your personal name appearing on public records.Forrest explains how data brokers, trial lawyers, and even online stalkers use state business registries to track ownership, target individuals, and uncover wealth. Then he shows how Anonymous LLCs provide a legal firewall between you and your holdings — protecting your family, your finances, and your freedom. You’ll learn which states offer the strongest privacy laws (like Wyoming and New Mexico), how registered agents keep your identity off public filings, and how to layer your LLCs for maximum protection.This episode also uncovers the biggest mistakes people make when setting up “anonym

Send us a textYour Car Is Spying on YouIn this episode of The Privacy & Freedom Podcast, Forrest Garvin exposes a truth most people never consider — your car is one of the most powerful surveillance devices you own. From built-in GPS trackers and microphones to data-sharing apps and telematics, modern vehicles quietly collect your movements, contacts, driving habits, and even conversations.Forrest breaks down how automakers, insurers, and tech partners harvest massive amounts of personal data every time you start the engine. He explains how this information is sold, traded, and stored — creating a complete digital dossier of your life behind the wheel. Most drivers have no idea their car knows where they sleep, work, and worship… and who’s in the passenger seat.You’ll also discover practical steps to reduce exposure — from disabling unnecessary connections and removing old paired phones, to deleting stored navigation data and limiting app permissions. Forrest introduces Privacy4Cars, a powerful tool desig

Send us a textIn today's episode, Patrick with Grid Down Comms Up lists some of  his favorite prepper Christmas gifts. If you are looking for a present for your significant other, children, mag group member, or anyone else on your gift list, there is something here for you! We focus on practical gifts that have real value, whether the grid is up or the world has come crashing down. From books to power tools, precious metals, and beyond, the perfect gift idea of the prepper in your life awaits.  https://www.amazon.com/shop/preppernet Join PrepperNet.Net - https://www.preppernet.netPrepperNet is an organization of like-minded individuals who believe in personal responsibility, individual freedoms and preparing for disasters of all origins.PrepperNet Support the showPlease give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Daily deals for preppers, survivalists, off-gridders, homesteaders https://prepperfinds.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTR

Send us a textThis special “Spy Christmas” episode is your complete holiday guide to the best privacy, security, and spy-themed gear of the year. Forrest breaks down over 30 hand-picked tools and gadgets for anyone who loves preparedness, digital security, or covert everyday carry. Whether you’re protecting your home, securing your digital life, or shopping for the privacy-minded person in your life, this episode is packed with practical, real-world recommendations.You’ll discover the top spy gadgets, concealed-carry tools, covert recording devices, encrypted communication apps, travel privacy gear, anti-tracking tools, RFID protection, secure storage devices, and must-have digital privacy products that every modern prepper should own. Forrest also highlights the best items for off-grid communication, emergency preparedness, home surveillance defense, bug-out bags, and stealth everyday carry.From affordable stocking stuffers to high-end gear used by privacy professionals, this episode is the ultimate Christma

Send us a textHaving the Privacy MindsetIn this episode of The Privacy & Freedom Podcast, Forrest Garvin dives into the foundation of digital privacy — the mindset. Before you install a VPN, delete social accounts, or buy a Faraday bag, you must first understand how to think privately in a world built to watch you.Forrest explains why true privacy starts with awareness, discipline, and intention — not gadgets. He exposes how corporations, governments, and data brokers profit from your every click, and why reclaiming control isn’t paranoia — it’s freedom. You’ll learn how to shift from convenience-driven habits to privacy-driven decisions that protect your identity, assets, and peace of mind.This episode explores the psychology behind privacy — how our digital behavior reveals who we are, and how adopting a “privacy mindset” helps you take back power over your data, your finances, and your future. Forrest shows that privacy and security are not optional anymore; they are acts of freedom and the first step

Send us a textPodcast Summary – Prepping Academy Podcast: “VPNs Explained – The First Line of Defense for Online Privacy”In this powerful episode of The Prepping Academy Podcast, host Forrest Garvin exposes the truth about VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) — what they really do, how they work, and which ones you can actually trust. As online tracking, censorship, and surveillance continue to rise, using a VPN has become a critical step in protecting your privacy, security, and freedom online.Forrest breaks down how VPNs encrypt your data, hide your location, and shield your digital activity from hackers, corporations, and even your internet provider. You’ll discover the top VPNs for privacy, the red flags to avoid, and why many “free” VPNs are more dangerous than helpful. Plus, he shares insider tips on using VPNs with your smartphones, routers, and streaming devices for complete protection.If you value anonymity, freedom, and security in a connected world, this episode is a must-listen. Learn how to stay invis

Send us a textPodcast Summary – Prepping Academy Podcast: “The Truth About Internet Browsers – Which Ones Keep You Safe?”In this episode of The Prepping Academy Podcast, host Forrest Garvin breaks down one of the most overlooked areas of online privacy — your internet browser. Every click, search, and website visit leaves a digital trail, and your browser is often the biggest source of data collection, tracking, and surveillance.Forrest compares the most popular browsers — Chrome, Firefox, Brave, Edge, and DuckDuckGo — revealing which ones spy on you, which actually protect your privacy, and how to configure your browser for maximum anonymity. You’ll learn about browser fingerprinting, private search engines, extensions that protect your data, and the crucial settings every prepper and privacy-minded American should change today.If you care about staying private online, blocking trackers, and avoiding Big Tech surveillance, this episode is packed with practical, easy-to-follow advice. Don’t miss this deep div

Send us a textPodcast Summary – Prepping Academy Podcast: “Data Breaches & Hacks Update – Protecting Your Digital Life”In this week’s episode of The Prepping Academy Podcast, we dive deep into the world of data breaches, cyberattacks, and online privacy — and what you can do right now to protect yourself. From the latest major corporate hacks to the quiet data leaks that expose your personal information on the dark web, we break down the biggest threats of 2025 and how they impact preppers, patriots, and everyday Americans.Host Forrest Garvin, founder of PrepperNet and cybersecurity expert, shares real-world updates on the most recent U.S. data breaches, the tactics hackers are using today, and why even “secure” companies are falling victim. You’ll learn the top five steps to safeguard your identity, prevent tracking, and lock down your devices before it’s too late.If you value your privacy, your freedom, and your digital security, this episode is a must-listen. Don’t miss the essential tools and strategi

Today, Grid Down Comms Up takes the microphone again for another great episode of the Prepping Academy. We do a short after-action report on the Eastern Tennessee Homestead Alliance festival, revisit a few items as we approach the one-year anniversary of the historic disaster caused by Hurricane Helene, and talk about radio and communications interference. We look at the common types of manmade interference and what you can do to ensure you aren't the cause, because making lots of people look for you isn't very gray man. We also discuss what you may want to consider adding to your plans if you experience intentional interference during an emergency. We also listened to an example of interference during my time in Eastern Tennessee with GSM and a much more entertaining example of some amateur operators trolling someone who is causing intentional interference to keep him talking until they locate him. I'll see you on the next episode.  Support the showPlease give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.

Prepping Academy Podcast: PrepperNet Leaders Needed, PrepperFinds.Com Launch, Preparedness Month, Hurricane Readiness, and Building a Nonprofit for Disaster Relief Support PrepperNet’s mission to become a nonprofit by sending your donation via PayPal to info@preppernet.com.You may also contact us by email, and we will provide you with a Stripe invoice for your convenience.   Email us at info@preppernet.comIn this episode of the Prepping Academy Podcast, host Forrest Garvin shares important updates and opportunities for the prepping community as we move deeper into preparedness month and hurricane season.We begin with a call for action: PrepperNet is seeking new local and city leaders to step up and guide area groups. These leaders help build training, communication networks, and community support, strengthening local preparedness nationwide.Forrest also announces the launch of PrepperFinds.com, a new website providing daily emails with prepping deals, gear, and resources to help preppers stay stocked and read

The Prepping Academy welcomes Forrest Garvin, founder of PrepperNet, Garvin Academy, and other entrepreneurial ventures that are countable. In today's episode, Forrest updates us on what he has been up to over the last year.  We also discuss the current happenings in  PrepperNet, where PrepperNet is heading in the future, and a general update on the status of Prepping 2025. Grid Down Comms Up http://www.youtube.com/@griddowncommsup Support the showPlease give us 5 Stars! www.preppingacademy.com Daily deals for preppers, survivalists, off-gridders, homesteaders & everyday Americans. The best gear & supplies—posted in one place, every dayCheck out https://prepperfinds.com Contact us: https://preppingacademy.com/contact/ www.preppernet.net Amazon Store: https://amzn.to/3lheTRTwww.forrestgarvin.com