Contra Radio Network

Survival Punk | Ep354: Always Look on the Bright Side of Life

Always Look on the Bright Side of Life | Episode 354When the world seems to be heading toward chaos, it’s easy to get caught up in fear and negativity. But prepping isn’t just about surviving—it’s about thriving, staying hopeful, and making the best out of any situation. In this episode, we explore how to maintain a positive mindset during uncertain times and why preparedness itself is an act of hope.
Staying Hopeful During the CollapseThe news cycle thrives on doom and gloom, making it hard to stay optimistic. But history has shown that humanity is resilient. No matter what hardships come our way, people adapt, rebuild, and find ways to improve their circumstances. Instead of focusing on what could go wrong, channel your energy into what you can control. Preparing for hard times isn’t a sign of paranoia—it’s a way to ensure that you and your loved ones can thrive.
Prepping Gives You HopeSome people think of prepping as an act of fear, but in reality, it’s the opposite. Being prepared allows you to face the future with confidence rather than anxiety. When you have food stored, skills developed, and a plan in place, you don’t have to live in constant worry. Instead, you gain peace of mind knowing that you’re ready for whatever comes next. Preparedness is empowerment, and empowerment fosters optimism.
Do Things That Make You HappySurvival isn’t just about having enough food and water—it’s about maintaining mental and emotional well-being. Even in tough times, it’s crucial to do things that bring joy. Whether it’s playing music, gardening, reading, or spending time with loved ones, these activities help keep spirits high. A positive mindset can mean the difference between thriving and simply enduring hardship.
Building a Positive Survival MindsetA strong mindset is just as important as physical preparedness. Here are some ways to maintain a positive attitude:
Gratitude Practice: Focus on what you have rather than what you lack.Problem-Solving Mentality: Look at challenges as puzzles to solve, not insurmountable obstacles.Self-Reliance as a Strength: Knowing that you can take care of yourself fosters confidence and peace of mind.Adaptability: The ability to pivot and make the best of a situation is invaluable in survival and everyday life.Finding Silver LiningsEvery challenge comes with an opportunity for growth. Hard times can teach valuable skills, strengthen relationships, and help you appreciate the simple things in life. Many preppers find joy in learning self-sufficiency skills like gardening, food preservation, and homesteading, which provide not only security but also a deep sense of accomplishment.
Creating a Support NetworkOne of the most overlooked aspects of prepping is the importance of community. Having a support network can make all the difference. Whether it’s family, close friends, or a like-minded group of preppers, being surrounded by positive, resourceful people makes tough times easier. Humans are social creatures—we are stronger together.
Final ThoughtsBeing prepared doesn’t mean living in fear. It means embracing the future with confidence and ensuring that no matter what happens, you have the ability to take care of yourself and those you love. By maintaining a hopeful outlook, focusing on what brings you joy, and building resilience, you can truly thrive, no matter what challenges arise.
So keep prepping, stay positive, and always look on the bright side of life! 

The Kershner Files | Ep67: Pew-Pews to Consider, DIY Water Filters, Beef Jerky Recipe, and Overlooked Medical Supplies

In Episode 67 of The Kershner Files, Dave provides updates for PMs, Survival Realty, but Squarespace was down so there were no gun shows announced this week. Prior to the updates Dave takes a look at some current events that affect the preparedness minded particularly with regard to the loss of benefits for illegal immigrants. From there, he discusses several articles geared toward preparedness in firearms to buy before being banned, DIY water filtration, and overlooked medical supplies. Dave also takes some time to review a beef jerky recipe. 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
Guns You Need To Buy Before The Government Bans Them by Nicholas Oetken from Ask a Prepper
The Best DIY Water Filters by Steve Nubie from Self-Sufficient Projects
How to Make the Best Beef Jerky in the World by 'Guest Contributor' from the Art of Manliness website
The Most Overlooked Medical Supplies You Need by Matt 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)

Survival Punk | Ep353: Chickens for Beginners

Chickens for Beginners | Episode 353
Raising chickens is a great step toward self-sufficiency, providing fresh eggs, meat, pest control, and natural fertilizer for your garden. Whether you’re in a rural area or even a more urban setting, chickens can be a great addition to your homestead. Here’s what you need to know to get started.
 
Why Raise Chickens?
Chickens offer numerous benefits beyond just egg production. They help with composting kitchen scraps, reduce insects in your yard, and provide valuable manure for your garden. Plus, raising chickens can be a rewarding experience, especially if you have children who can learn responsibility by caring for them.
Choosing the Right Breed
Not all chickens are the same! Some breeds are better suited for egg-laying, while others are raised for meat. For beginners, hardy, low-maintenance breeds are ideal. Here are a few top choices:
Rhode Island Reds – Great layers, hardy in different climates
Buff Orpingtons – Friendly, good for both eggs and meat
Barred Rocks – Low maintenance, excellent layers
Leghorns – High egg production, but more active and independent
Setting Up a Coop
Your chickens need a safe, comfortable place to live. A well-designed coop should include:
Proper space – At least 2-3 square feet per bird inside the coop and 8-10 square feet in the run.
Roosting bars – Chickens like to perch off the ground while sleeping.
Nesting boxes – One box for every 3-4 hens is sufficient.
Ventilation – Good airflow prevents moisture buildup and respiratory issues.
Predator protection – Use hardware cloth (not chicken wire) to keep out raccoons, foxes, and hawks.
Feeding & Nutrition
Chickens require a balanced diet for optimal health and egg production. Essentials include:
Layer feed – Provides the necessary protein and nutrients.
Grit – Helps chickens digest food properly.
Calcium supplements – Crushed oyster shells or eggshells keep eggshells strong.
Treats – Kitchen scraps and scratch grains can be fed in moderation.
Daily & Weekly Care
Chickens are relatively low maintenance, but daily and weekly care is necessary:
Daily: Fresh food and water, egg collection, general health check.
Weekly: Coop cleaning, refilling grit and calcium sources, deep litter turning.
Common Health Issues
Like any livestock, chickens can develop health problems. Common issues include:
Parasites – Mites and lice can be prevented with diatomaceous earth or poultry dust.
Respiratory infections – Good ventilation helps prevent these.
Egg-binding – Calcium supplements and proper nutrition help prevent laying issues.
Egg Laying & Collection
Most hens start laying around 5-6 months old and produce eggs regularly, depending on breed and season. Expect fewer eggs in winter unless supplemental light is used. Collect eggs daily to keep them clean and fresh.
Seasonal Considerations
Summer: Provide shade, cool water, and dust baths to prevent overheating.
Winter: Insulate the coop, ensure proper ventilation, and keep water from freezing.
Legal & Neighborhood Considerations
Before getting chickens, check your local zoning laws. Some areas limit the number of birds or prohibit roosters due to noise concerns. Keeping good relations with neighbors by maintaining a clean coop and managing noise levels is essential.
Expanding Your Flock
Once you have experience, you may want to add more chickens. Introduce new birds gradually, as chickens establish a pecking order that can cause initial aggression.
Final Thoughts
Raising chickens is a rewarding experience that provides food security and self-sufficiency. With the right setup and care, you’ll enjoy fresh eggs, pest control, and even a little entertainment from your flock. Whether you’re just getting started or thinking about expanding, chickens are a valuable addition to any homestead!

Prepping 2.0 | Ep327: Prepping for One

In episode 327, author and prepper, Lindy Bryant talks about the challenges and advantages that single preppers face. We talk highlight her two books: “The Single Person’s Guide to Preparedness” and the companion resource “Grab-N-Go Binder”. Check out her links as well as our sponsors Survival Garden Seeds, ProOne Water Filters, EMP Shield, Paul Burke - Idaho Realtor, Numanna Foods. Learn more about our podcast at Prepping 2-0.com

Survival Punk | Ep352: Making the Change to Homestead Life

Making the Change to Homestead Life | Episode 352
In this special episode of the Survival Punk Podcast, my wife and daughter join me to share their experiences transitioning to a homestead lifestyle. We discuss the challenges and rewards of self-sufficiency, the learning curves of baking bread and canning food, and our future plans for expanding our homestead with more plants and animals.
Starting the Homestead Journey
Making the move to a homestead way of life wasn’t an overnight decision. My wife shares her thoughts on what motivated the change—whether it was a desire for healthier food, independence from the grocery store, or simply a love for the simpler life. Adjusting to this lifestyle comes with its own set of obstacles, from learning new skills to rethinking how we acquire and store food.
Baking Bread from Scratch
One of the first skills my wife picked up was baking fresh bread. She talks about her experience trying different recipes, experimenting with various types of flour, and dealing with the inevitable failed loaves. We also discuss why homemade bread is superior to store-bought options, from taste to nutrition, and how it fits into our daily life.
The Art of Canning and Food Storage
Canning has been a huge part of our journey into self-sufficiency. My wife shares her favorite things to can—whether it’s jams, vegetables, or even meats—and some of the mistakes she made along the way. We cover the best equipment for beginners and why food preservation is an essential skill for anyone looking to become more self-reliant.
Future Plans: More Plants and Animals
Looking ahead, we discuss our plans to expand the homestead. From adding new garden beds to growing a wider variety of crops, we’re always looking for ways to increase our food production. Additionally, we talk about the possibility of raising chickens or goats and how we’re preparing for that transition.
Final Thoughts
Homesteading is a journey, and we’re excited to see where it takes us next. My wife and daughter share their advice for anyone considering making the shift, emphasizing the importance of patience, continuous learning, and embracing the lifestyle step by step.
Tune in to this episode for real-life experiences, tips, and insights into making the move to a homestead lifestyle!

Von Wehunt | Ep1: PODBEAN EPIC EPISODE - BACK TO THE FUTURE

BROADCASTING FROM VAL HALLA STUDIOS IN THE MOUNTAINS OF ARIZONA....THIS IS YOUR PIRATE RADIO SHOW "AMERIKA" AS WE DISCUSS NATIONAL POLITICS, CURRENT EVENTS, GEOPOLITICS AND BREAKING NEWS. WE ARE A RADIO VARIETY SHOW DISCUSSING WAR AND PEACE AND WE WILL HAVE GREAT CALLERS FROM ALL OVER THE LAND AND EXPATS WELCOME....SIT BACK AND ENJOY WITH YOUR FAVORITE ADULT BEVERGE OR CALL IN AND JOIN THE SHOW....THE CHOICE IS ALWAYS YOURS AND ENTER THE OCTAGON AT YOUR OWN RISK....BROADCASTING FROM A GALAXY STUDIO FAR FAR AWAY....

Survival Punk | Ep351: Repurposing & Upcycling for Preppers

Repurposing & Upcycling for Preppers | Episode 351
In a world where waste is abundant and resources can be scarce, learning how to repurpose and upcycle everyday items is a vital skill for preppers. Not only does it save money, but it also enhances self-sufficiency and sustainability. In this episode, we’ll explore creative ways to repurpose common household items for survival, homesteading, and emergency preparedness.
Why Repurposing Matters
Repurposing isn’t just about saving money—it’s about making the most of what you have and reducing waste. In a survival scenario, the ability to adapt and innovate using limited resources can mean the difference between comfort and hardship. By upcycling, you give new life to old materials while keeping them out of landfills.
Household Items with New Uses
Glass Jars – Use them for food storage, DIY oil lamps, or fermenting vegetables.
Plastic Bottles – Turn them into water filters, seed starters, or emergency water storage.
Tin Cans – Create camp stoves, candle holders, or small storage containers.
Old Clothes & Fabric – Repurpose for insulation, rags, or even patching gear.
DIY Fire Starters
Creating homemade fire starters is easy and ensures you always have a reliable way to make fire. Some simple and effective methods include:
Dryer lint and wax-stuffed egg cartons
Cotton balls soaked in petroleum jelly
Sawdust mixed with melted wax
Upcycled Water Storage & Filtration
Instead of throwing away old food-grade containers, repurpose them into emergency water storage. Use 2-liter soda bottles for water purification systems or build a rainwater collection system using barrels.
Homemade Tools & Gear
Preppers are known for their ingenuity. With some creativity, you can make survival tools from scrap materials:
Paracord belts – Woven belts or bracelets for emergency cordage.
DIY fishing kit – Use soda can tabs as fishing hooks.
Homemade knives – Repurpose old saw blades into knives or tools.
Garden & Compost Hacks
Gardening is a cornerstone of self-sufficiency, and repurposing materials can make it even more cost-effective:
Turn plastic tubs into self-watering planters.
Use eggshells and coffee grounds as natural fertilizers.
Convert old tires into raised garden beds.
Repurposing Old Electronics
Even broken electronics have valuable parts:
Salvage batteries and wiring for DIY solar setups.
Turn an old car alternator into a small wind turbine.
Use old laptops for emergency communication setups.
Creative DIY Lighting
If the grid goes down, lighting is essential. Some creative upcycling ideas include:
Mason jar solar lights.
Oil lamps using cooking oil and a wick.
Repurposing broken flashlights into LED lanterns.
Final Thoughts
Repurposing and upcycling is more than just a frugal practice—it’s a mindset that helps preppers stay resilient and resourceful. With a little creativity, everyday items can serve multiple purposes, ensuring that nothing goes to waste. Tune in to Episode 351 for a deep dive into these DIY survival skills!

The Jeffers Notes S2 Ep2 || Trump's Fast-Paced Agenda and DOGE

In this episode of The Jeffers Notes, John Jeffers dives into the rapid pace of President Trump’s actions, emphasizing the importance of preparedness in response to potential disasters. He discusses the benefits of wireless surveillance camera systems and introduces cutting-edge tech solutions like the CPE 450 wireless bridge for security enthusiasts.
The conversation shifts to the ongoing political struggles in the U.S., with Elon Musk's exposure of fiscal malfeasance, notably targeting Democratic machinations. Jeffers criticizes various politicians and policies, highlighting the controversy surrounding the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and the misuse of funds linked to USAID.
Further, Jeffers shares his thoughts on immigration policies in Illinois, specifically attacking Governor Pritzker and Chicago's sanctuary city stance. He underscores the issues of political and fiscal corruption, calling for accountability and justice system reform.
Ending on a lighter note, Jeffers takes a jab at the opposition and rallies his audience to stay informed and engaged as political and social narratives continue to unfold.

Dave Kershner Lightning Round | Ep203: Australia, Germany, and UK Circle the Drain, Leftist Meltdowns, and the Border

In Episode 203, Dave spends a fair amount of time discussing Australia, Germany, and the UKs current predicament and how they can’t seem to get out of their own way and stop digging. After that, he runs through a series of leftist meltdowns over the administration and DOGE’s actions before wrapping up the show with some steamy language from Tom Homan and the border. Articles discussed:
German Left-Populists Declare War on Globalist Green Agenda in Countdown to Federal Elections by Kurt Zindulka from Breitbart
Farage: Politicians Are ‘All Wankers, The Lot of Them’ by Oliver JJ Lane from Breitbart
Senate Confirms Russell Vought for Office of Management and Budget Despite Massive Democrat Pushback by Paul Bois from Breitbart
Democrats try to enter Department of Education amid outrage over possible DOGE cuts by Rachel Wolf from Fox News
'There will be violence': Homan issues warning to cartels, tells Glenn Beck next steps by Joseph McKinnon from Blaze Media
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)

Survival Punk | Ep350: The Life and Survival of Medieval Peasants

The Life and Survival of Medieval Peasants | Episode 350
Medieval peasants lived a life dictated by the seasons, working the land to provide for their families and fulfill obligations to their lords. Their homes were small, built from wood, wattle, and daub, with thatched roofs. Days were spent plowing, harvesting, tending animals, and performing household chores. While hard and unforgiving, their lifestyle was deeply connected to the land and community.
Food Preservation for Winter
Surviving winter meant meticulous planning and preparation during the warmer months. Without modern refrigeration, peasants relied on traditional preservation methods:
Salting – Meat and fish were packed in salt to prevent spoilage.
Drying – Fruits, vegetables, and meat were dried for long-term storage.
Fermenting – Sauerkraut and other fermented foods provided essential nutrients.
Root Cellars – Underground storage kept root vegetables fresh through winter.
Slaughtering Livestock in Winter
As winter approached, livestock that couldn’t be sustained through the cold months were slaughtered. Cold weather helped preserve the meat, which was then smoked, dried, or salted. Every part of the animal was used, from rendering fat for candles to using bones for broth.
Foraging & Gathering
Wild foods supplemented the diet, including nuts, berries, mushrooms, and herbs like garlic and rosemary. Honey, collected from beehives, served as a sweetener and was used to make mead.
The Peasant Diet: Bread, Porridge, and Ale
Bread – The staple of the medieval diet, made from coarse-ground rye or barley.
Pottage – A thick stew made with grains, vegetables, and occasionally meat.
Ale and Small Beer – A fermented, low-alcohol beverage safer than water.
Feast vs. Famine: The Harsh Reality
A poor harvest could lead to famine. Heavy taxation and food tributes left many peasants struggling. Religious fasting also influenced diet restrictions throughout the year.
Lessons for Modern Preppers
Medieval peasants mastered survival through food preservation, resourcefulness, and seasonal adaptation. Today, preppers can apply these lessons by:
Learning fermentation, drying, and salting techniques.
Growing staple crops and foraging for wild edibles.
Utilizing every resource to minimize waste.
Timing food production and storage with seasonal changes.
Understanding how medieval peasants survived provides valuable insights into self-sufficiency and preparedness in uncertain times.