Prepping

Jack of All Trades | Episode 347
In a world where specialization is the norm, being a jack of all trades is often undervalued. But for preppers, homesteaders, and self-reliant individuals, having a broad skill set is a game-changer. This week alone, I worked on cars, handled plumbing issues, and tackled some electrical work—proof that being versatile can save time, money, and stress.
Why Being a Jack of All Trades is a Superpower
Most people rely on professionals for every little fix, but those who take the time to learn multiple skills gain independence and resilience. Whether it’s fixing a leaky pipe or troubleshooting a car problem, handling tasks yourself means:
Saving money on labor costs.
Avoiding delays from waiting on professionals.
Building confidence in your ability to handle emergencies.
Real-World Applications: My Week in Skills
This week was a prime example of how valuable it is to be multi-skilled. Here are just a few things I worked on:
Auto Repair: Fixed an issue with my car, saving hundreds in mechanic fees.
Plumbing: Repaired a minor leak, preventing further damage.
Electrical Work: Installed and troubleshot some wiring.
Other Useful Skills: Carpentry, welding, and small engine repair are also crucial for self-sufficiency.
How to Build and Improve Your Skills
Learn by doing—don’t be afraid to make mistakes.
Use online resources like YouTube and forums.
Find a mentor or work alongside skilled tradespeople.
Practice regularly so you don’t forget what you’ve learned.
The Challenges of Being a Jack of All Trades
While versatility is great, it does come with drawbacks:
You may not reach expert-level proficiency in one skill.
Certain jobs (like major electrical work) may still require professionals.
Balancing multiple skills takes time and effort.
Why It’s a Vital Prepper Skill
For preppers and homesteaders, being a jack of all trades is a survival advantage. If society faces disruptions, those with mechanical, electrical, medical, and construction knowledge will be far better off. Plus, skills can be bartered or turned into a side business, making them even more valuable.
Final Thoughts
Being a jack of all trades isn’t about being mediocre at everything—it’s about being capable enough to handle life’s challenges without always relying on others. So start learning, keep practicing, and embrace the mindset of self-sufficiency and adaptability.
Links
Amazon Basics Mechanic’s Tool Socket Set With Case, 145-Piece

Survival on Vacation | Episode 346
Going on vacation should be relaxing, but for preppers and survivalists, it’s also an opportunity to think ahead and stay prepared. Today, we’re diving into the essentials of staying safe while traveling.
Pre-Trip Planning for Safety
Before you even leave home, research your destination. Look into local crime rates, potential weather hazards, and any political instability. Have a backup plan for lodging and transportation in case your original plans fall through. Pack a small survival kit that includes a first aid kit, water filter, multi-tool, and any medication you may need. Also, familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and laws regarding self-defense tools.
Hotel & Airbnb Safety Tips
Not all accommodations are created equal. Choose hotels in safe areas, ideally with 24/7 security. Upon arrival, locate emergency exits and fire escapes. Keep your valuables locked away, and consider using a doorstop alarm for added security. If you’re in an Airbnb, verify the host’s reputation and read reviews carefully.
Navigating Unfamiliar Environments
When exploring, stay aware of your surroundings. Stick to well-lit, populated areas and avoid looking like an easy target. Offline maps and a basic understanding of the local language can be lifesavers if you get lost. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, leave the area immediately.
Food & Water Safety
Traveler’s stomach is no joke. Avoid tap water in places where it’s not safe to drink, and stick to bottled or purified water. Be cautious with street food—eat where the locals eat and watch how food is prepared. Carry a portable water filter for emergencies.
Self-Defense & Personal Protection
Not every country allows firearms or knives, but you can still carry non-lethal tools like a tactical pen, flashlight, or personal alarm. Always be aware of common scams and tricks used on tourists. If someone is making you uncomfortable, create distance and get to a safer location.
What to Do in an Emergency
Have a plan for worst-case scenarios. Know where the nearest hospital, police station, and embassy are located. If a natural disaster or civil unrest breaks out, avoid large crowds and have an exit strategy. Keep a charged power bank for your phone so you can stay in touch with loved ones.
Final Thoughts
Vacations should be enjoyable, but staying prepared means you can handle emergencies without panic. Whether you’re heading to a city or the wilderness, thinking ahead can make all the difference.
Stay safe and enjoy your trip!

Prepping for Kids | Episode 345
Teaching Kids Survival Skills, Food Storage, and Meeting Their Unique Needs
Preparing for emergencies takes on a whole new dimension when you’re prepping for kids. Not only do you need to think about their physical safety, but you also have to address their emotional well-being, comfort, and specific medical needs. Here’s how to make your emergency preparedness child-friendly.
Teaching Kids Basic Survival Skills
Start by teaching age-appropriate survival skills that build confidence and preparedness without overwhelming them.
Safety First: Teach kids how to recognize danger, call for help, and follow evacuation plans.
Navigation Skills: Take hikes as a family to practice basic navigation using maps or landmarks.
First Aid Basics: Show them how to use bandages, clean small cuts, and recognize signs of dehydration or illness.Turning these lessons into fun family activities will keep kids engaged while teaching essential skills.
Food Storage with Kids in Mind
When storing food for emergencies, consider your child’s preferences and nutritional needs.
Kid-Friendly Options: Include shelf-stable snacks like granola bars, applesauce pouches, and powdered milk.
Comfort Foods: Familiar treats like fruit snacks or hot cocoa can provide comfort during stressful times.
Portioning: Pack single-serve portions for easy preparation and minimal waste.Rotating food regularly ensures it stays fresh, and involving your kids in the planning can make them feel included and reassured.
Entertainment and Medical Needs
Keeping kids entertained and healthy during emergencies is just as important as providing food and shelter.
Entertainment: Pack lightweight activities like coloring books, puzzles, or small toys to help them stay calm.
Medical Needs: Keep a supply of children’s medications, allergy treatments, and age-appropriate first-aid items on hand. If your child has specific medical needs, ensure you have extra supplies ready.Maintaining routines as much as possible, like bedtime stories or family games, can provide comfort and stability during a crisis.
By focusing on these essentials, you can ensure your kids are not only safe but also equipped to handle challenging situations. Prepping for your children doesn’t have to be overwhelming – it just takes a little extra thought and care!

In Episode 65 of The Kershner Files, Dave provides updates for PMs, Survival Realty, and state specific gun shows. After all of the updates, he discusses four articles dealing with HAM radios, EMP probability, online survival courses, and S.C.A.R.E bags. Articles/topics discussed:
Spot Prices for Gold (Au) and Silver (Ag) - from the davidjkershner.com website
Survival Realty - featured properties and new listings
State-by-State Gun Shows - from the davidjkershner.com website
What is the Best Ham Radio for Preppers from Willow Haven Outdoor
How Likely Is an EMP Attack in 2025 by James Walton from Ask a Prepper
5 Reasons to Take an Online Survival Course from Willow Haven Outdoor
S.C.A.R.E Bag vs Bug-Out Bag by Nicholas Oetken from Ask a Prepper
Support Dave by visiting his Etsy shop at DesignsbyDandTStore
Available for Purchase - Fiction:
When Rome Stumbles | Hannibal is at the Gates | By the Dawn’s Early Light | Colder Weather | A Time for Reckoning (paperback versions) | Fiction Series (paperback) | Fiction Series (audio)
Available for Purchase - Non-Fiction:
Preparing to Prepare (electronic/paperback) | Home Remedies (electronic/paperback) | Just a Small Gathering (paperback) | Just a Small Gathering (electronic)

In Episode 325, Shelby does a deep dive into why Los Angeles county’s policy of “scarcity” versus “abundance”--straight out of communism–can be attributed to the colossal fires. Mike Rowe’s recent podcast was the impetus for today’s show. In the After Show, Shelby will share some of Madge 2.0’s thoughts on the fires being in the midst of them, exclusively for Patreon supporters. Please support our sponsors Survival Garden Seeds, ProOne Water Filters, EMP Shield, Paul Burke - Idaho Realtor, Numanna Foods, Backwoods Home Magazine, and Minutemen Coffee. We are part of the Firearms Radio Network. Learn more about our podcast at Prepping 2-0.com

Shade-Tolerant Edible Plants for Your Garden| Episode 344
Gardening in shaded areas might seem like a challenge, but it’s entirely possible to grow a thriving garden with the right plants. Whether your yard has dappled sunlight or full shade, there are plenty of options for edible plants that don’t mind a little less light. In Episode 344, we explore a dozen shade-tolerant crops to get your garden started.
Why Grow Shade-Tolerant Plants?
Many homesteaders and gardeners face the dilemma of limited sunlight due to trees, buildings, or small spaces. Choosing shade-tolerant crops means you can still produce food and maximize your available growing areas. Plus, shaded gardens often require less watering and experience fewer weeds.
12 Edible Plants Perfect for Shade
Leafy Greens
Spinach: Thrives in partial shade and cooler conditions, producing tender, nutrient-packed leaves.
Kale: A hardy crop that grows well in low light and even tolerates frost.
Lettuce: Perfect for shaded spots, as it prevents bolting and extends your harvest season.
Collard Greens: Provides robust, hearty leaves that grow beautifully in partial shade.
Root Vegetables
Radishes: Quick-growing and shade-friendly, ideal for fresh snacking or pickling.
Carrots: Sweeter roots develop in partial shade, as long as soil remains loose and rich.
Turnips: Produces both edible roots and greens, making it a versatile garden addition.
Herbs
Parsley, cilantro, mint, and chives thrive in shady areas while adding fresh flavors and medicinal benefits to your meals.
Other Crops
Peas: Cool-season crop that prefers shade to avoid overheating.
Elderberries: A fruiting shrub that thrives in partial shade and provides berries for syrups and jams.
Mushrooms: Perfect for full-shade areas like basements or wooded spaces.
Start Your Shade Garden Today
With so many options, gardening in shaded areas doesn’t have to limit your harvest. Pick a few of these crops, experiment with your space, and watch your shady garden flourish.
Would you like to know more about growing these plants or planning your shade garden? Tune in to Episode 344 for all the tips!

Planning Your Spring Garden | Episode 342
Spring may still be a few months away, but now is the perfect time to start planning your garden. By preparing early, you can ensure a productive and enjoyable growing season.
Why Plan Now?
Getting a head start means you’ll be ready when planting season arrives. Popular seed varieties often sell out quickly, so ordering early ensures you’ll have what you need. Planning now also allows you to spread out costs, making it easier to budget for seeds, soil, and tools.
What to Plant
When deciding what to grow, focus on crops your family enjoys eating. It’s also important to choose plants suited to your region’s climate and soil conditions. Consider companion planting to maximize space and help your plants thrive—tomatoes and basil, for example, are a classic pair.
Preparing the Soil
Healthy soil is the foundation of a thriving garden. Start by testing your soil to understand its pH and nutrient levels. From there, you can add compost, manure, or other amendments to enrich it. Mulching is another excellent way to retain moisture and control weeds.
Starting Seeds Indoors
Seed starting is a great way to jump-start your garden. Use trays, lights, and a warm space to grow your seedlings indoors. Heirloom seeds offer unique flavors and qualities, while hybrid seeds often provide better disease resistance—choose what fits your goals.
Tools and Expansion
Now is also a good time to clean and sharpen your tools or replace worn-out equipment. If you’re expanding your garden, think about raised beds, container gardening, or trying new varieties. Consider setting up irrigation systems like drip lines or rain barrels to save water.
By planning ahead, you’ll be set up for success and can enjoy the fruits (and vegetables!) of your labor all season long.

In this episode of The Jeffers Notes, we delve into a wide range of hot topics. We kick off with a critical examination of ranked choice voting and its impact on election outcomes, shedding light on a controversial subject.
From discussing the role of media in shaping perceptions about political figures like Trump and Biden, to offering insights on Melania Trump's body language during public appearances, this episode covers diverse angles.
We touch on personal property naming conventions for preppers, emphasizing the importance of privacy and security. The episode also takes a hard look at emotional blackmail tactics seen in social media and public protests.
Tune in for a jam-packed session that offers unique perspectives on current affairs, personal anecdotes, and a deep dive into how AI is revolutionizing the marketing industry.
The AI Marketing Revolution Podcast
Contra Marketing Revolution
Social Media Links:
https://gab.com/contraradio1     https://x.com/ContraRadio1  https://rumble.com/user/CRNOverlord  

Emergency Water Storage and Purification | Episode 341
Water is the foundation of survival. You can go weeks without food, but without water, you’re in serious trouble within days. In this episode, we’ll dive into the essentials of emergency water storage and purification, ensuring you’re prepared for any crisis.
Water Storage Basics
The first step in water preparedness is storage. You’ll need at least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking, cooking, and hygiene. For a family of four, that’s 28 gallons per week! Options include large barrels, stackable water containers, or repurposing food-grade containers.
Purification Techniques
Even with stored water, contamination can happen. Have a few purification methods ready. Boiling water is simple and reliable, but it requires fuel and time. Filters, like those from Berkey or Sawyer, are portable and effective. Chemical treatments, such as water purification tablets or bleach (unscented, 5.25-8.25% sodium hypochlorite), are another backup. Just remember, 2 drops of bleach per quart will do the trick.
Overcoming Challenges
Freezing temperatures can ruin stored water, so insulate your containers if you’re in a cold climate. For long-term storage, consider adding water stabilizers to prevent bacterial growth. Rainwater collection is another excellent option.
The Prepper’s Mindset
How much water is enough? More than you think. Water isn’t just for drinking; it’s for cooking, cleaning, and even barter in a pinch. Take inventory of your family’s needs, factor in pets or livestock, and build a solid water plan.
With proper storage and purification, water won’t be your weakest link in a crisis—it’ll be your greatest asset. Tune in to learn more!

Staying Warm While Working Outdoors in the Cold | Episode 340
Working outdoors in cold weather can be challenging, but with the right preparation and gear, you can stay warm and safe. In this episode, we’re tackling the essentials of staying warm while working in harsh winter conditions, from layering techniques to choosing the right gear.
Understanding the Risks of Cold Exposure
Cold exposure can lead to serious health issues like hypothermia, frostbite, and cold stress. Recognizing early warning signs, such as numbness, shivering, or loss of dexterity, is crucial. Stay proactive to avoid these dangers.
Mastering the Art of Layering
Layering is the foundation of cold-weather survival.
Base Layer: Wear moisture-wicking materials like merino wool or synthetic fabrics to keep sweat off your skin.
Insulating Layer: Opt for fleece, wool, or down to trap body heat.
Outer Layer: A waterproof and windproof shell protects you from wind chill and precipitation.
Gear to Keep You Warm
Gloves and Mittens: Choose gloves for dexterity and mittens for maximum warmth. Heated options are great for extreme cold.
Insulated Boots: Pair waterproof boots with wool socks for warmth and dryness.
Head and Face Protection: Beanies, balaclavas, and face masks help retain heat and protect against frostbite.
Heated Clothing: Invest in battery-powered gear like gloves or jackets for prolonged warmth.
Stay Active and Prepared
Pace Yourself: Avoid sweating too much by managing your activity level. Overexertion leads to damp clothing, which can make you colder.
Take Warm-Up Breaks: Have a sheltered area or vehicle nearby for quick warming sessions.
Carry Essentials: Keep extra layers, hand warmers, and emergency gear on hand.
Staying warm while working outdoors isn’t just about comfort—it’s about safety and efficiency. With proper preparation, you can work smarter, stay productive, and thrive even in the coldest conditions. Tune in to learn more!