The Mind4Survival Podcast show

The Mind4Survival Podcast

Summary: Mind4Survival host, Brian Duff, empowers preparedness minded people to become more safe, confident, and self-reliant so that they can better protect themselves, their families, and loved ones when it matters most.

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 Preparedness (The True Meaning of Preparedness) | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 50:52

In a world marked by uncertainty and unforeseen challenges, the concept of preparedness often conjures images of stockpiled goods and doomsday preppers. However, true preparedness is a multifaceted and evolving journey that goes well beyond these stereotypes. It’s about more than just survival; it’s about living our best possible lives, regardless of the circumstances we face. To shed light on this broader perspective, we delve into the PREPAREDNESS acronym, a guide that encompasses a range of essential qualities. Each letter represents a trait that empowers us to navigate life’s twists and turns with resilience, adaptability, and compassion. From being present in the moment to mastering the art of self-reliance, we’ll explore how these traits combine to create a comprehensive and empowering approach to preparedness. Join me on this transformative journey as I redefine what it means to be truly prepared for life’s challenges. The Definition of Preparedness Yes, the definition of preparedness is “All the efforts taken to survive, minimize unwanted struggle, and live your best possible life.” We know that. I’ve talked about that several times. The definition of preparedness is the basis of the Goals of Preparedness: Survival: Avoiding massive trauma and maintaining homeostasis. Minimize Unwanted Struggle: Wanted struggle is excellent, but unwanted struggle of illness, financial hardship, family problems, etc., is something the human condition prompts us to avoid. Living your best possible life: We should all aim for this goal. After all, what’s the point of surviving and minimizing unwanted struggle if it’s not to live your best possible life? This is the goal many who focus on preparedness get wrong. What People Get Wrong About Preparedness What people (most people) get wrong when they think about emergency preparedness is the why and how of preparedness. Most people focus on the first goal of preparedness and stop there. They focus on survival. And yes, as you will all read in my book, Mind4Survival, if you don’t survive, there’s no opportunity to get to the living your best possible life part of living. So yes, there is a need to prepare for that. And once you’re stocked up on enough food, water, toilet paper, diapers, security, and so forth to keep you and your family safe, you’re set for survival. Sure, you can add and do more. However, it doesn’t need to dominate your life at the expense of living. As I’ve said before, don’t let your worry of tomorrow destroy your today. Yes, you should have a vehicle safety kit that you check every once in a while. Yes, obtaining CPR, first aid, and Stop the Bleed training are all excellent training everyone should attend. Sure, knowing how to defend yourself and preparing for when an emergency occurs is fantastic. Basically, we should all be our own first responders. And all that is just the base level of preparedness, what is typically referred to as disaster preparedness, but which only scratches the surface of what preparedness truly means.  Yes, prepping for manmade and natural disasters is only part of being prepared. I believe if people only focus on that, they’re missing so much more opportunity to live their best possible life. I think of it like someone who repeats the first grade repeatedly. There’s only so much you can get out of it before it’s time to move on and improve yourself past the basics. What is Preparedness Preparedness is so much more than bandaids, beans, and bunkers. Preparedness is how you set yourself up to succeed at the third and ultimate goal of preparedness—to live your best possible life. So, with that, I will break down what actual readiness is—the true preparedness that happens outside of the traditional view of prepping. To begin, the PREPAREDNESS that I’m talking about,

 Case Study: Preppers Killed by the Dunning-Kruger Effect | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 55:26

In today's world, the appeal of "living off the grid" is strong for many with a yearning for self-reliance. The idea of escaping the hustle and bustle and anxiety causing turmoil of modern life by living a self-reliant lifestyle and connecting with nature is a dream for some. However, as a tragic event in Colorado reveals, the dream can quickly turn into a nightmare for those who are overconfident in their abilities and not adequately prepared and capable. This tragic story is a stark reminder of the deadly dangers of overconfidence caused by the impact of cognitive biases such as the Dunning-Kruger Effect and confirmation bias. Understanding the Dunning-Kruger Effect The Dunning-Kruger Effect is a cognitive bias where individuals with low ability at a task overestimate their ability. It's named after psychologists David Dunning and Justin Kruger, who first identified the phenomenon. In essence, the Dunning-Kruger Effect is when someone knows so little about a topic that they don't even realize their own incompetence and inadequacies. In effect, they don't know what they don't know.  The irony of the Dunning-Kruger Effect is that as one gains knowledge and becomes more competent, one's confidence usually decreases from the height of their early overconfidence. This means that the most confident individuals are often the least informed. In other words, with experience comes wisdom—the wisdom to admit to yourself that you don't know what you don't know.  A Tragic Tale from Colorado This article focuses on the tragic deaths of three individuals, two adults and a 14-year-old boy, who, with little to no experience, decided to live off the grid in the mountains of Colorado. Armed with a small library of self-reliance books and schooled up on preparedness-focused YouTube tutorials, they believed they were ready to face the harshness of Mother Nature dressed as a Colorado winter.  Unfortunately for the trio, despite believing they were ready to go it alone, they were woefully inexperienced and unprepared. Sadly, due to their unrealistic expectations and overconfidence, their bodies were discovered in a remote campsite, having succumbed to the harsh winter and lack of food. Autopsy reports suggest they died of malnutrition and starvation during the winter, with no food found at their campsite. The Illusion of Preparedness The tragic trio had survival books and tarps and even managed to build a lean-to from local logs over a fire pit. And while they had some of the basics figured out, they lacked the practical experience and knowledge required to see them through the winter. This story underscores the difference between genuinely being prepared versus being inexperienced and believing you're prepared.  Truly being prepared means knowing enough to realize when you're in over your head and admitting it. One of the most basic fundamentals of preparedness includes having the humility to honestly ask yourself the hard questions. The hard questions include:  What if I'm wrong? What if I'm only partially correct? Can I do this better?  With the hard questions asked, the next step is to answer yourself honestly. That means losing the sense of pride attached to wanting to be correct. It includes having the humility and vulnerability to admit your current beliefs may be wrong and have room for improvement.  When you do that, you can begin to have the confidence to know that you're overcoming the curse of the Dunning-Kruger Effect and other cognitive biases. It's those biases that, if allowed to fester and grow, can derail all of our preparedness efforts. It's those biases that, if allowed to go unchecked, can lead us to a similar fate as those poor souls who wandered into the Colorado mountains believing they had the capability to survive and thrive. 

 169: Diet-Specific Survival (What You Need to Know) | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 1:00:23

Hey there, survival enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into a topic that's often overlooked but is super important—diet-specific survival. You know, the kind of survival that takes into account your unique dietary needs. "Unique dietary needs" isn't about losing weight; it's about staying alive and well when the chips are down. So, let's get into it! Note: This article and podcast episode are based on the article "Diet-Specific Survival" from the August 2023 issue of the "Prepper Survival Guide." The 112+ page Prepper Survival Guide can be found in many retail stores' magazine racks, and at $12.99 is an incredible deal. This is classified as a magazine—it's really a how-to book on various prepping topics. Get your copy today! Why It's Not Just About Calories You might think that in a survival situation, any food is good food. But that's a dangerous misconception. The reality is, if you have specific dietary needs, you can't just "suck it up" and eat whatever's available. That could lead to serious health problems or worse. Preparedness is about planning for the future, and that includes your diet-specific needs. Community Matters Survival isn't a solo sport. It's about community. Whether it's you and your spouse, your family, or a larger group, you need people around you. Why? Because if you twist an ankle or get sick, you will need help. And let's face it, overall, life is much more safe and secure when you're not alone. And, when it comes to community, many members of your community will have dietary needs and constraints that must be addressed. If not, they will struggle, and some may die.  Food and the Survival Pyramid In the world of survival preparedness, food is one of the key ingredients of the survival pyramid. In addition to food (nutrition), mindset, situational awareness, immediate action, oxygen to the brain, shelter, water & sleep, and community make up the requirements of life. As such, without any of those, and in the case of this article, when it comes to food, you can't live without it.  Special Dietary Needs When it comes to survival food for those with special dietary needs, the game changes. You need foods that are specific to your needs. Some people need foods that are low in sugar and salt. Others may live and operate better with organic options. And let's not snicker at the word 'organic.' For some people, eating non-organic foods can lead to health issues, feeling ill, and subpar performance, which is anything other than desirable in a survival situation.  Medical Conditions and Allergies If you have a medical condition or allergy, your diet isn't just a preference; it's a necessity. For example, people with diabetes can't just eat a bucket of rice without it taking a toll on their glucose levels. Similarly, if you're gluten-sensitive, eating gluten could lead to painful conditions like diarrhea and nausea, which are the last things you need in a survival situation.  Planning Ahead The key to diet-specific survival is planning (aka preparedness). If you have type 2 diabetes, beans may be a better option for you than rice. If you're gluten-sensitive, consider avoiding pasta rather than stockpiling it. Likewise, if you have a problem with sodium, avoiding many mass-produced, freeze-dried foods is the best course of action.  Ultimately, you need to think about these things (see situational awareness) now to avoid getting caught off guard later. After all, the health and survival of you and your family depend on it!  The Bottom Line on Diet-Specific Survival Survival during difficult times is, at best, a struggle. However, it's even more challenging if you're not adequately prepared. And part of being prepared is thinking about you and your dietary limitations. So, take the time now to plan for your specific needs. Trust me,

 Common Prepping Struggles | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 1:44:58

Preparing for potential emergencies or disasters is a lifestyle that requires individuals to be self-sufficient and ready for any situation. From natural disasters to economic hardships, prepping is about being prepared for the unexpected. However, the preparedness journey is not without its struggles.  This article dives into the top challenges that preppers face and provides solutions to overcome them. The Struggle of Mindset Urgency One of the first struggles preppers face is urgency. When disaster strikes or when we witness unsettling events in the world, the sense of impending doom can grip us along with panic and anxiety. It's natural to feel the sympathetic nervous system-induced overwhelming desire to act immediately and rush into making decisions without careful thought. However, it's crucial to recognize that urgency can be both a motivating force and a source of panic. In the face of urgency, it is essential to take a step back, pause and gather our thoughts. Taking a deep breath and slowing down allows us to regain clarity and make wise decisions. Rushing into action without careful consideration can lead to mistakes and overlooked details. Remember, prepping is not a sprint but a marathon. It's a long-term commitment to being prepared for a variety of scenarios.  Instead of rushing into something, use that sense of urgency to fuel your dedication toward prepping, but don't let it overwhelm you. Rather than succumbing to panic, focus on taking deliberate actions. Every step you take today, no matter how small, brings you closer to being prepared for the challenges of tomorrow. So, embrace urgency as a driving force, but ensure it doesn't cloud your judgment or push you into hasty decisions that may have long-lasting consequences. Always remember slow and steady wins the race when it comes to prepping. Psychological Stress The psychological stress of being a prepper can be overwhelming. As preparedness-minded individuals, we carry the weight of constant worry and concern. The fear of the unknown, the anticipation of potential crises, and the pressure to be ready at all times can take a toll on our mental well-being and, ultimately, our preparedness. Therefore, it's crucial to acknowledge and address these psychological stressors. One significant challenge preppers face is the fear of being perceived as "crazy" by others. Society often stigmatizes those who take preparedness seriously, labeling them (us preppers) as paranoid or extreme. This can create a sense of isolation and internal conflict within us as individuals, especially those new to prepping. It's important to remember that being prepared is not something to be embarrassed by or made to think is crazy. Instead, it's a responsible choice in an unpredictable world. Confidence in our beliefs and actions helps us overcome the psychological stress of societal judgment. While being a prepper may come with psychological stress, managing and addressing these challenges is crucial. Embrace confidence in your actions and choices, and don't let societal judgment discourage you. Prioritize self-care and seek support from a supportive community of like-minded people. Ultimately, actively addressing the psychological stress that accompanies many people's preparedness efforts allows us to maintain a healthy mindset and continue our preparedness journey with resilience and determination. Secrecy Secrecy is another struggle that preppers often face in their self-reliance journey. That's because it can be challenging to keep one's preparations a secret, especially when the natural urge to share and discuss our efforts with others arises. However, it is crucial to exercise caution and refrain from openly bragging about your preparations or divulging sensitive information to others. After all, you never know the motivations and personal biases...

 167: My Esoteric View of Prepping with Grumpy Acres Farm | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 1:14:24

Hey, fellow all you amazing survival-minded people! Join me in this episode as I dive into the preparedness world with none other than Grumpy from the renowned Grumpy Acres Farm YouTube channel. Grumpy kicks off the conversation by delving into my unique perspective on prepping, characterized by an esoteric view that emphasizes the power of mindset. We explore the significance of mental preparedness and how it influences our ability to navigate uncertain times. But that's not all! We shift gears to discuss my nomadic lifestyle, which has taken me on an awesome journey around the country. I share some of the intricacies of my travels, relying on my network of incredible friends and family. Discover the challenges and insights gained from living life as a nomadic prepper. The conversation wraps up with Grumpy and I contemplating the future of our world. Together, we examine the ever-changing global landscape and discuss the uncertain future that we are all trying to figure out. Tune in to this thought-provoking episode packed with wisdom and shared experiences. Whether you're a seasoned prepper or simply curious about alternative lifestyles, this conversation is sure to ignite your imagination and inspire you to view preparedness through a fresh and esoteric lens. Don't miss out! Additional Resources: Peak Refuel: Freeze-Dried Taste Test Best Freeze Dryer for Home Use | What to Know Guide! (2023) Best Foods to Stockpile for an Emergency Food Supply (2023) Food Forest Abundance: Self-Reliance & Success with Jim Gale   Stay safe,

 New York Subway Death (What it Means for Prepping) | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 1:34:11

It's not a mystery that there is an increase in violence in our country. What's also not a mystery is that everyone is at an increased risk due to increased violence. With that, this article is going to look at the recent tragedy that took place on a New York City subway, along with some of the contributing factors, and what we as preppers can do to minimize the risk to ourselves and our loved ones as we go about our daily lives.  The Recent New York Subway Death: A Closer Look Most of you have heard about the tragic May 1, 2023, New York subway incident that involved Jordan Neely, a 30-year-old homeless man, and Daniel Penny, a 24-year-old former Marine Sergeant from Queens, New York. However, here's a recap for those of you who haven't. Daniel Penny has been charged with second-degree manslaughter in the death of Jordan Neely, a 30-year-old homeless man. Neely, while riding the subway, began acting erratically and harassing other passengers. He began acting so erratically that Penny, along with other good samaritan passengers, determined that he was a danger and needed to be restrained. Unfortunately, Penny's method of restraint, a chokehold, resulted in the death of Jordan Neely. As a result, the city medical examiner ruled Neely's death a homicide, noting he died due to "compression of neck."  Who was Jordan Neely Jordan Neely was a mentally troubled, 30-year-old Michael Jackson impersonator with a long history of violent behavior who had been arrested over 40 times before the incident.  According to Newsweek, "A New York City police spokesperson stated that Neely's record has 42 prior arrests, dating between 2013 and 2021. They include four for alleged assault, while others involved accusations of transit fraud and criminal trespass. At the time of his death, Neely had one active warrant for an alleged assault in connection with a 2021 incident."  That warrant was for punching a 67-year-old woman in the face as she was leaving a subway station. The vicious thug broke her nose, fractured her orbital bone, causing her to fall. Another of his arrests was for the attempted kidnapping of a 7-year-old.  The System is Failing Us The tragedy of what's happening in the United States is putting all of us at risk. It's impacting the lives of well-meaning good samaritans like former Marine Daniel Penny and a person who led a tragic life like Jordan Neely. If the system was operating in a manner that we all expect of it, in an honorable, caring, and proactive way, none of this should have happened.  The fact is, across the board, we all are being put at risk due to the corruption and failings of political leaders, the mental health industry, and the mainstream media.  Politicians are Making Us Unsafe Yes, for most, if not all of you, this will sound as if I'm playing the part of Captain Obvious, but our politicians are failing us. And with nearly 100% certainty, our politicians are failing us because they put their interests and political well-being ahead of the citizens they are supposed to represent. I say that with so much certainty because if the politicians honestly had the best interest of We the People at heart, our nation would be experiencing the number of problems we are. For example, if government leaders truly put the well-being of citizens first, they wouldn't be taking the actions and inactions that lead to making us unsafe. In the case of Daniel Penny, he and the other riders on the New York City subway wouldn't have been put in the position where they felt the need to subdue a person like Jordan Neely.  The System is Putting Police Officers in an Impossible Situation I make no bones about it. I am very hard on police officers. As such, I demand as close to perfection as we get from the only people in our society who are authorized to take anot...

 Prepper Camp with Rick Austin | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 1:12:50

I first attended Prepper Camp in 2017 and had a fantastic time. If you're into preparedness, and since you're reading this article, I'm going to assume that you are, Prepper Camp is the event for you! With that, read on and learn about this awesome event! What Is Prepper Camp? Prepper Camp is an annual event in Saluda, North Carolina, dedicated to the concept of preparedness and self-reliance. It is the brainchild of Rick Austin and his wonderful wife, Survivor Jane. Together have created a gathering of 2000 preparedness-minded people to come together as a community. In addition to the outstanding camaraderie, prepper camp is a total immersion event, offering a weekend of opportunity to learn, share knowledge, and network with like-minded friends. Prepper Camp provides a unique learning experience through workshops, seminars, hands-on demonstrations, and interactive activities. The three-day event covers a wide range of topics relevant to prepping, including survival skills, emergency medicine, camp craft, food storage and preservation, self-defense, homesteading skills, off-grid living, alternative energy sources, simple quick shelters, and more. If there's a self-reliance topic that you'd like more information about, there's probably an expert-led prepper camp class that covers it. Where is Prepper Camp Located? The annual family-friendly preparedness retreat is hosted at the Orchard Lake Campground near the small town of Saluda, NC. Located 40 minutes south of Asheville, NC, this campground in the woods provides an excellent spot for a weekend of camping and preparedness fun. For your navigation and GPS purposes, the address of Orchard Lake Campground is 460 Orchard Lake Road, Saluda, NC. Book Early While the campground is large and provides camping, and RV sites, along with cabin rentals, it books up early due to the popularity of prepper camp. So, if you plan on attending, book early or do your best to find a nearby Air BnB house. With that, if you don't mind driving each day, there are plenty of hotels and other lodging options in Asheville. When is Prepper Camp? Prepper Camp typically takes place over an entire weekend in late September. For 2023, the dates of Prepper Camp are September 22 through the 24th. With the event taking place in late September, you can expect temperatures between the low 60s and mid-80s. Likewise, while mostly sunny and beautiful, rain is always possible, so prepare accordingly. Why Should You Attend Prepper Camp? The short answer is that Prepper Camp is a great time! Case in point, here's a Prepper Camp review by a Mind4Survival contributor. The longer answer is that the camp fosters a sense of community while encouraging networking among like-minded people, allowing attendees to exchange ideas, resources, and information. It serves as a platform for prepared individuals to connect, collaborate, and build relationships with others who share an interest in preparedness. With 30-plus speakers and three days of classes, Prepper Camp is the event you should attend at least once! Additionally, Prepper Camp provides valuable, preparedness-focused education, training, and camaraderie and is an excellent opportunity to meet the many vendors who showcase and sell a wide variety of preparedness and self-reliance-related products and information. Overall, Prepper Camp offers an excellent experience for people who not only want to survive but thrive if and when stuff goes bad. As such, it aims to empower those interested in preparing and living life on their own terms with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to face uncertain situations and emergencies with confidence and resilience. Prepper Camp Tickets Tickets to Prepper Camp typically go on sale in December and are sol...

 Prepper Pantry: A Practical Guide to Stocking Your Kitchen | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 33:22

A well-stocked prepper pantry is essential in today's uncertain world of societal turmoil, economic strife, and kinetic geo-political gamesmanship. Whether it's natural disasters, power outages, or economic disruptions, having a well-stocked pantry also provides long-term security and peace of mind. The purpose of this article is to provide a practical guide to stocking your kitchen with a focus on creating a prepper pantry. It's for anyone who wants to enhance their preparedness and self-reliance. Whether you're new to prepping or looking to improve your existing pantry, this guide will equip you with valuable insights and tips to ensure your pantry is well-stocked and ready for any situation. What is a Prepper Pantry A prepper pantry is a well-thought-out collection of food and supplies that are specifically chosen for their long life and ability to sustain you during difficult times. Creating a prepper pantry goes beyond traditional grocery shopping to provide a sufficient stockpile of essentials that can support you and your family for extended periods. The concept of a prepper pantry emphasizes self-sufficiency while allowing you to rely on your own resources when access to fresh groceries or other supplies may be limited, if not completely impossible. Understanding the Basics of Food Storage Food storage is a fundamental aspect of building your prepper pantry. It involves collecting and storing various types of food to ensure you always have an adequate supply on hand. Defining Food Storage and Its Benefits Food storage refers to the practice of preserving and storing food items for future use. By having a well-prepared prepper pantry, you can mitigate the impact of potential disruptions and enhance your self-reliance. Importance of Stocking Essential Items When creating your prepper pantry, it's essential to include a variety of shelf-stable foods that provide the necessary nutrients and sustenance for your and your family's long-term needs. These items can include everything from baking powder to canned foods, grains, legumes, dried fruits, and other long-lasting food products. By having a well-rounded assortment of essential items, you will be able to maintain a balanced diet and meet your nutritional needs during challenging times. Assessing Your Needs and Goals Before starting to store food in your prepper pantry, it's essential to assess your specific needs and goals. This assessment will help you determine the quantity and types of food items you need to store. Deciding How Much Food to Store Calculating the amount of food you should store depends on several factors, such as your household size, dietary preferences, and the duration you aim to sustain yourself solely from your prepper pantry. Consider the number of individuals you need to feed, their age, and any specific dietary requirements they might have. Build Your Prepper Pantry One Bite at a Time How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time. The same holds true for building out your prepper pantry. Take it one step at a time, and before long, you'll have a fully stocked prepper pantry that meets your anticipated needs. I advise people who are starting from scratch, to begin with a goal of storing one week's worth of food. Then, gradually build up, adding another week at a time until you create your three-week supply, three-month supply, and so on. Building your prepper pantry in this manner allows you to do so in a non-overwhelming, easy-to-manage, scalable way. Organizing Your Prepper Pantry Space Creating an organized and efficient storage system is vital to maximizing the limited space of your working prepper pantry. With that, here are some tips to help you optimize your storage space: Group Similar Food Items Together Arrange your pantry by category,

 163: One Disaster, Two Disaster, Three with Chris Richards | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 1:09:55

In this episode, Chris Richards and Brian discuss the compounding disaster Chris experienced at the beginning of COVID. COVID began to cause societal issues in January 2020. In February 2020, Chris's daughter experienced a significant medical emergency. And, by early March, her son elected to take pictures of the Eifel Tower... no, not in Las Vegas, in Paris, France—just as lock downs were getting ready to start. If for no other reason, this episode and Chris's story should remind you not to put off your health and preparedness. "Once the time for action. starts, the time for preparedness has ended." I heard those words of wisdom in Brad Garrett's audiobook, Bunker. For all of the fun and details, be sure to listen to this episode. Stay safe,

 162: Grief as a Force Multiplier | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 1:11:10

It's an ironclad fact that preparedness involves more than just the superficial tasks of physical preparation. It's also an unassailable fact that prepping must include mental and emotional preparation for one of the most debilitating aspects of disastrous times—grief. Grief is important to understand because all of us will most likely struggle with the impact of grief at one or more points during our life. Additionally, I'd argue that as the potential for a more significant disaster increases, so too does our possibility of experiencing an increase in grief. Therefore, it only goes to reason that if you are truly preparing to face disaster, you should, as part of your preparation, learn to recognize and deal with grief in yourself and others. And that's precisely what this article is about, so read on! Why is Understanding Grief Important for Preparedness Unfortunately, as preppers, we often focus exclusively on physical preparedness, such as stockpiling supplies, creating emergency plans, and developing survival skills. However, mindset and emotional preparedness are just as important as physical preparedness, if not more so. After all, we are less likely to put our physical preps to effective use during times of high consequence if we are a mental and emotional wreck. And, as a prepper, that's the last thing I want. Likewise, I doubt any of you want it, either. Knowing what to expect with grief can help people recognize their emotional involvement and develop mechanisms to deal with it. It can also help us recognize when others are struggling with grief and, as a result, be as supportive as possible as they work through their grieving process. What is Grief Grief is part of the human condition and is a natural response to traumatic events such as loss. Because grief is part of the human condition, we are all subject to its effects. Some of those effects manifest as sadness, anger, guilt, and confusion. Additionally, they can include physical symptoms like fatigue, insomnia, or loss of appetite. The intensity and duration of grief can vary widely among individuals, and it can last for weeks, months, or even years. While grief is a challenging and often painful experience, it is an essential and normal part of the healing process. Grief cannot be avoided. However, by acknowledging it and understanding it and our emotions, we can gradually come to terms with our grief, find meaning in our experiences, and ultimately move forward in our lives. What are the Five Stages of Grief While everyone experiences grief differently, psychiatrist Elisabeth Kubler-Ross identified five stages that individuals commonly go through when grieving. These stages are commonly known as the Kubler-Ross model and include denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Denial The first stage of grief is denial. This is when individuals may feel numb or disbelieving regarding their situation. Denial is often the initial response to loss as individuals struggle to comprehend the situation's reality. It's common for individuals to feel that the situation isn't happening or that it's a mistake. During this stage, individuals may also experience shock, confusion, and emotional numbness. An example of denial in the context of grief is when a person receives news of the death of a loved one and refuses to accept it. They may deny the reality of the situation and believe that it is not happening or that it is a mistake. They may cling to hope that the news is incorrect and continue to wait for more information or evidence to the contrary. People in denial may also avoid talking about the situation or refuse to acknowledge their emotions, feeling emotionally numb or disconnected from the situation. This stage of grief can last for different periods of time. Some may move past it relatively quickly,

 161: How to Manage Stress and Anxiety in Preparedness | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 57:24

Managing stress and anxiety is an important preparedness topic that is often overlooked. It's ignored because preparing for future struggles is often rooted in worry about future events. And, that worry causes us to place our preparedness ahead of all else.  However, that's not to say that preparedness is not an excellent course of action to follow. As we all know, accidents, disasters, and bad times happen. When they happen, those who prepare are more likely to be part of the solution rather than part of the problem.  That said, people concerned about future problems can experience the adverse effects of long-term stress and anxiety. Those effects can impact both physical and mental health and, in so doing, decrease a person's ability to overcome difficult situations. In other words, not including efforts to manage stress and anxiety can reduce our overall preparedness capability.  Stress, Anxiety, and Worry Worry is defined as anxiety and uncertainty over actual or potential problems. If that doesn't sum up the prepper mindset, including mine, I don't know what does. The bottom line is that worry is something that preparedness-minded people do. If we didn't worry, we wouldn't be as inclined to prepare as many of us do.  On the flip side, people who don't worry are less inclined to prepare. Think about it, how many people have you seen who do not worry about the future and still spend their time and money getting prepped? Typically, people who don't worry about future uncertainties are the people we say have their heads buried in the sand.  Ultimately, because we are concerned with the future, we, the preparedness-minded people of the world, tend to carry more stress. It's that stress that can have an adverse impact on a person's readiness.  The Adverse Effects of Stress and Anxiety Here's a list of the adverse effects of stress and anxiety on our health and wellness:  Central Nervous System Headaches Dizziness Depression Weight gain Cardiovascular System Rapid heart rate Palpitations Chest pain Heart disease High blood pressure Coronary events Excretory and Digestive Systems Stomachaches Nausea Diarrhea Digestive issues Loss of appetite can also occur Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) Managing Stress and Anxiety in Preparedness Stress and anxiety are everyday experiences that everyone goes through at some point in their lives. While it is normal to feel stressed or anxious, managing these emotions effectively to avoid their harmful effects on our mental and physical health is essential. Here are some ways to manage stress and anxiety: Exercise: Regular physical activity is a great way to reduce stress and anxiety. Exercise helps to release endorphins, which are natural mood boosters that help to reduce stress and anxiety. Additionally, exercise helps to improve physical health, which in turn can help to reduce stress levels. Deep breathing: Deep breathing exercises can help to calm the mind and reduce stress levels. When we feel anxious or stressed, our breathing becomes shallow and rapid, which can exacerbate these feelings. We can slow down our heart rate and reduce our stress and anxiety by taking slow, deep breaths. Mindfulness: Mindfulness involves focusing your attention on the present moment without judgment. This practice can help to reduce stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation and helping to reduce negative thoughts and feelings. Get enough sleep: Lack of sleep can contribute to stress and anxiety. To manage stress and anxiety effectively, it is important to prioritize sleep and aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night.

 Risk Management: How-to Manage Risks Made Easy (2023) | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 2:20:55

I received a question from a longtime friend of the show, Sheri Martin. Sheri asked: “How does one plan for SHTF with a balanced approach when everything seems most important? I always seem to get hyper-focused on one area at the expense of other important areas.” Sheri, the short answer is Risk Management. The long answer is to, through risk assessments, objectively examine the risk of each area or thing you’re trying to protect—your assets. That means looking at what you’re trying to protect and analyzing the impact if it’s lost, the threats which may target it, and your lapses in preparedness, which are known as your vulnerabilities. By quantifying those risk factors, risk managers, such as yourself, can objectively analyze and determine where to focus your preparedness in the form of risk reduction efforts so that you can work NOT to be unnecessarily hyper-focused on one area when you should be addressing another. That applies during normal times, man-made and natural disasters, and SHTF scenarios. While the impact of losing an asset may shift along with the threats and vulnerabilities, the process of managing your operational risk profile remains the same regardless of the situation. The Risk Management Process is a Fundamental Key to Preparedness The risk identification and management process is, in my opinion, one of the fundamental keys to preparedness because it is the tool that prepares us to mitigate risk in a logical, objective, non-hyper-focused manner. It’s so important I included an entire chapter on it in my book, Mind4Survival. As I write in Mind4Survival, to manage our risk and make our lives safer and less worrisome: “…we must understand how to objectively (with a minimum of bias and emotion) compare our constantly fluctuating risks and opportunities as equally as possible. We must be able to compare risks equally and objectively with one another to judge which risks are most likely to cause the most significant harm should they happen. Our understanding of which risks are the most problematic in relation to one another allows us to paint the overarching picture. Our risk profile is an objective view of everything we have to protect, everything we’re protecting it from, and everything we’re protecting it with. Therefore, understanding our profile provides us with the reality-based information we need to make the most effective decisions about managing risk and, ultimately, our lives. That’s not to say we can’t add emotion and bias to the process. What I’m saying, though, is that creating our risk profile provides us with information that we know to be as accurate as possible. How you make use of that information is up to you.”So, what does that mean? It means that to help us not hyper-focus on one aspect of our preparedness over another element that may be more important, we need to look at all of our assets on an equal and level playing field that compares one aspect of our preparedness to another. The Three Questions We create an equal and level playing field with which to compare our assets by repeatedly asking ourselves three simple questions: 1. What Do I Have to Protect? (Assets) These are your assets and include all the things you value. Assets include your family, friends, home, car, and clothing. They also include your preps, such as food, water, medications, cash, etc. And they include your intellectual property, such as your computer files, essential documents, and even your reputation. 2. What Do I Have to Protect it From? (Threats) The answer “What do I have to protect the things I value from is “threats.” These are the specific threats and hazards which, if and when they happen, can result in harm or loss to our assets. Threats include job losses, home fires, tornados, civil unrest, a pandemic, a corrupt government, and so forth.

 159: Nature Reliance with Craig Caudill | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 1:12:36

Craig Caudill of Nature Reliance School is here to discuss a host of topics on how to succeed not only in nature and preparedness but also in life. Craig's an outdoor survival educator, author, podcaster, master naturalist, and extreme wilderness survival practitioner who brings his lifelong love of the outdoors to his students and Nature Reliance YouTube channel. Craig teaches military personnel, law enforcement, and everyday citizens real-world tactics to avoid trouble and survive extreme situations. He prepares his students by imparting a healthy dose of insight and real experiences (such as surviving in the woods with only a knife) to build mental fortitude, improve self-defense, and stay safe in the face of danger. We're lucky to have Craig Caudill and his four decades gathering expertise in survival skills and advanced tactics on the show this week. Moss Doesn't Just Grow on the North Side of Trees One urban legend and pet peeve that Craig is more than happy to dispel for us is the fact that moss doesn't only grow on the north side of trees. Why? Because moss needs more water than most plants to grow. And in the Northern Hemisphere, the north side of trees receives the least amount of sun, so that's the side that's most likely to stay moist and grow moss. However, moss can grow on all sides of a tree in shady areas. So, if you get lost in the remote woods, don't follow the moss as part of your life-saving and essential wilderness navigation. You'll only get more lost. Instead, stay put—but more on that later. Tracking One of Craig's loves in life is tracking. He's done it for years and teaches many people, from hunters and outdoorsmen to law enforcement and the military. When it comes to tracking, Craig teaches that Locard's principle applies, which states that "When two pieces of physical matter come into contact with one another, there's going to be some evidence that one of them was there." In other words, a person will leave something behind that an astute tracker can find. So, while it's impossible not to leave a sign of our passing, we can reduce the signature we leave behind for others to find. Types of Trackers Trackers typically fall into one of three categories: Man trackers (law enforcement & military) Hunters who track animals Trackers who track for the love and art of tracking. What to Do if You're Lost in the Wilderness Next, Craig discusses his four tips for being rescued if you're lost in the wilderness. Those four tips are: Before leaving to go into the woods, tell someone you trust when you're leaving and when you'll be home. Also, tell them where you're going and who (if anyone) is going with you. That way, if you get lost, your trusted person can coordinate help to get you un-lost! When you realize you're lost, as Craig puts it, "Stop, Sit-Down, and Wait." Unfortunately, most people keep walking, trying to find their way out of being. Doing so is a recipe for disaster. Again, once you know you're lost, don't make matters worse. Stop, Sit-Down, And Wait! Have a mobile hand-talky so you can contact rescuers who will be out looking for you. Remember, cell phones often have terrible reception out in the wilderness, so don't rely on a cell phone as your primary option to call for help. Put your ego in check and know when your ego is getting you into trouble. When that happens, recognize it, stop it, and follow the sensible way forward. If you let your ego run the show, your ego just might run you into an early grave rather than get you home safe. Craig's Best Piece of Survival and Prepping Advice The best time to start prepping was twenty years ago. The second best time to start preparing is today.

 158: The Instructor with Tim T.R. Hendricks | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 1:22:52

Tim T.R. Hendricks is here to discuss his experiences as a tank platoon leader, turned intel officer, turned security professional, and everything that led to his new book, The Instructor, which is available now for pre-order on Amazon. In this episode, Tim opens up about his tumultuous experiences during and following the Iraq war, along with the path leading to writing his first novel. As an Army lieutenant, Tim trained to command a platoon of tanks in battle. However, upon his arrival in Iraq, he was put in command of an ad hoc infantry platoon and their humvees patrolling the streets of the Sadr City section of Baghdad. Not only did he have to contend with gaining acceptance as a leader of a group of battle-hardened soldiers, but he also had to overcome the challenges of senior leaders who believed in outdated methods of operating that didn't meet the needs of those fighting on the ground. For example, being ordered to pass out food to hundreds of starving people while trying to protect them, his platoon, and himself from the militias who wanted them all dead.  In this episode, Tim also talks about how, after leaving the military, he found what he thought was a secure job, only to lose it when the economy crashed. Out of work with a pregnant wife, Tim did what many former military members do—he took a job in the security industry. With that new life in mind, Tim and I discuss how his time in Baghdad translated to providing executive protection for a host of A-List celebrities and influencers in New York City.  Eventually, Tim used his intelligence and security background to become a corporate background investigator. On that note, Tim provides insight into what people need to be aware of regarding their own background screenings, should they ever need one.  Some of the most common problems that trip people up on background investigations are: Education - fraudulent degrees Employment history Criminal history - not being forthcoming and honest about their past Financial problems Finally, we discussed his new book, which I just finished, enjoyed, and gave two thumbs up. The book is titled The Instructor and has a great plotline full of intrigue, suspense, and action that any prepper will enjoy. The Instructor is a cross between Mac Bolan and Jack Carr's, The Terminal List.  With that, here is a Synopsis of "The Instructor" from the T.R. Hendricks site: Derek Harrington, retired Marine Force Recon and SERE instructor, is barely scraping by teaching the basics of wilderness survival. His fledgling bushcraft school is on the cusp of going out of business and expenses are piling up fast. His only true mission these days? To get his ailing father into a full care facility and to support his soon-to-be ex-wife and their son. When one of his students presents him with an opportunity too good to be true-$20,000 to instruct a private group for 30 days in upstate New York-Derek reluctantly takes the job, despite his reservations about the group's insistence on anonymity. But it isn't long before the training takes an unexpected turn-and a new offer is made. Reaching out to an FBI contact to sound his concerns, Derek soon finds himself in deep cover, deep in the woods, embroiled with a fringe group led by a charismatic leader who will stop at nothing to get what he wants. When what he wants becomes Derek's head, the teacher is pitted against his students as Derek races against time to stop what could very well be the first attack of a domestic terrorist cell. Go check it out now. The book is The Instructor: A Derek Harrington Novel. Check it out on Amazon today!   Stay safe,  

 157: Building Your Circle of Trust with the Roaming Prepper | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 46:57

In this episode with Pete, host of The Roaming Prepper YouTube channel, we discuss what to look for when considering bringing someone into your circle of trust. Adding people to your inner circle can have great upsides and significant downsides for your personal life, job, etc. Therefore, any search for or potential addition to your circle should be brought in slowly and with a mind for the success of you, your family, or your group. Considerations When Adding Someone to Your Inner Circle Pete advises that there are several considerations we should examine when thinking about bringing someone into our inner circle. You will want to weigh each of these considerations individually and collectively when determining how far (if at all) you want to let someone into your circles. 1. Are They Compassionate? One of the most important things you can do is make sure the people you bring into your inner circle are compassionate. Compassion means having an understanding and empathy for the struggles of others. It also means that we treat each other with kindness and respect. When considering a potential addition to your preparedness network, ask yourself if this person has compassion for their fellow man. Are they quick to lend a helping hand when needed? Do they show consideration for other people's feelings? How do they interact with those who are different from them or have different backgrounds? Your preparedness organization shouldn't be just about getting through a crisis, but rather it should also be about taking care of each other while getting through it. Finding someone compassionate is essential in ensuring everyone's needs are taken care of during difficult times. People with compassion don't just think of themselves - they think of others, too, and put their well-being first as well. Compassionate people can helpfully point out different perspectives on any situation, which is especially important when preparing for anything unknown. They provide unique insights that could benefit you and the group during a crisis. They understand patience, self-sacrifice, and resilience - all qualities that will be extremely valuable in times of distress. Ultimately, having compassion increases our ability to function together and our chances for survival in a crisis. So remember to look within yourself and within others before letting them into your inner circle - is there true compassion present? If so, maybe you've found a great addition to your prepper team. Pete's Building Your Circle of Trust Video: 2. Are They Insightful Another key trait that you should be looking for is insightfulness. People with insight can think beyond the surface and make insightful observations about any situation. An insightful person can look at a problem from many angles and develop creative solutions that may not have been previously considered. They are less likely to jump to conclusions, preferring indirect reasoning and careful analysis over rash decisions or snap judgments. They also have strong listening skills. And, they don't just hear what people are saying but can pick up on subtle nuances in conversations and understand how everyone involved feels. Insightful people can be excellent problem-solvers, which is an invaluable asset in a time of crisis. When faced with uncertain situations or volatile environments, they can assess the risks and make intelligent decisions quickly and calmly. Having someone with this mental aptitude around in times of distress could potentially mean the difference between life and death for your prepper group. In general, it's essential to look within yourself and within others before letting them into your inner circle - do they possess insight? If so, you've likely brought in an individual who will help protect you from danger and contribute valuabl...

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