In The Rabbit Hole

In this episode, we sit down with James of Survival Punk. He's going to share with us the benefits of life in a tiny house, the downsides, and the pitfalls. Tiny houses are all the rage these days. They even have their own reality TV shows. For some, Tiny houses make a lot of sense: They can force you to declutter your life, push you out into the world and get outdoors, save money, and a host of other benefits. And some tiny houses have the added benefit of being mobile -- an attractor for many preppers and modern nomads. But there can be downsides to tiny houses too. If you're not an experienced DYI'r, you'll need to find a contractor or builder. If you're a pack rat, these aren't for you. Some cities and municipalities are making new laws to keep out tiny houses and new tax laws specific to these smaller dwellings. However, the Survival Punk find more benefits than detractors. And we discuss... ~ Topics Discussed: * Why pick a tiny house to live in if you are a prepper? * Dating as a single tiny house owner? * How do you store food in a tiny house? * Can they help you get out of or avoid debt? * How realistic is bugging out in one of these? * How do you move a tiny house? * What are the construction methods (and hacks)? * How do you pick appliances? * Does solar work well for tiny house owners? * Building codes and laws impacting the tiny house movement. ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e196

In this episode, we sit down with Tim Maynard author of Southbound: A Story of Survival. His book explores what it might be like for a truck driving survivalist if an EMP were to go off while far from home and his wife. As a former truck driver himself, Tim brings a unique perspective to the survival discussion. The "over the road" life presents many challenges for a prepper; Storage space is extremely limited, you're often hundreds to thousands of miles from home, and when disaster strikes you could find yourself in an unfamiliar area. How does the book start? What is Southbound about? How did he write a book while on the road?How do truckers How does Tim get into a writer's "flow state"? How do truckers prepp with limited space? How did he calculate how long it would take the main character to walk home? What's the best $100 Tim ever spent on survival? What's his go-to long gun? ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e195

In this episode, your listener questions will be answered. We'll discuss hiding your peppers, self-defense options for those with poor eyesight, short barrel rifle questions, and probably one of the hardest questions any of you have ever asked me. Questions Answered: * What is the most overlooked survival prep you come across? * What skills do you practice most and what skills do you practice least? * What one survival skill do you feel you need the most but have the least experience? * What barrel length is best for 300 Blackout SBRs? * If you live in an apartment or small home, how do you store your preps and keep them secret from prying eyes? And how do you keep them organized in a concise space? * How can we get CERT (Fema's Community Emergency Response Team) certified? * After the November 8 presidential election, what will run out quicker canned goods or bullets? * What home self-defense options are best for the legally blind? * What are your thoughts on James Wesley Rawles recent post on strategies for buying guns and ammo after the election? ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e194

In this episode, we sit down with Holly and Nate of the Dollars and Nonsense Podcast. They're going to share with us some insights about things to avoid and things to do with money. Episode Topics Discussed: * The myth of retirement programs * The penalties and pitfalls of retirement programs * Staying away from programs the government is involved in * The federal reserve's monopoly money game * Servitude mindsets * Being creative with money * Staying away from what "the masses" do with money and following the examples of the rich * The myth of numbers and money being equal * Understanding compounding interest * The runaway inflation lessons from Zimbabwe and Argentina * The myth and trap of saving 10% * What is infinite banking ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e193

In this episode, we sit down with Alana Barfield two-time contestant on Naked and Afraid. She's going to defend against internet trolls, tell us the reality of reality tv, bullies us, and organizes our sock draw to get us ready for the zombie apocalypse or whatever comes next... What to do if you find a ravine full of M&Ms Dealing with people in a survival situation How a lack of food shuts down your brain in a survival scenario Surviving exaggerated emotions and conflicts The time she almost tapped out The time her fishing pole got stolen How the experience of 40 days naked and afraid impacted her preps Why she may never eat mangos again The importance of spices in your preps you're overlooking There is no TGIF in the sticks The negative publicity of being edited to a bitch on TV The reality of reality tv Crazy people stalking and calling her mom Propositional letters from prison Propositional letters from Russian admirers Butt-hurt Americans Lessons on dealing with the "I'm coming to your house crowd effectively Turning your passions, and quirks, it into a business ~ Become a supporting member here: ITRH.net ~ Resources from this episode are found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e192

In this episode, we welcome back James Price. He's going to share with us real-world lessons learned on survival from refugee camps and shit hitting the fan. ~ Topics Discussed * IDP - Internally Displaced Person * The bathroom situation * Bleach and bleach alternatives for killing germs and staying healthy * Things you may not have considered about water and transporting water * The number one thing you showed have on hand that most people don't * How to train for the worst and be prepared for when anything goes wrong ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e191

In this episode, it's just you and me. And I'm going to answer your burning questions. Many of the questions coming in by email are often the same. So today's episode shares the answers with everyone. * What's the best breed of rabbit for meat production? * If you could do the farm all over again, what would you do differently? * Do you ever think about ending the show? * What's YOUR go-to rifle? * Where do you find the time to practice all the stuff you cover on the show? * How can I convince my wife prepping is ok? * How are you voting for? ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e190

In this episode, Jason and I sit down to discuss an update on his cattle ranching adventure, alligator wrestling, the end of the ITRH farm, and surviving middle age. For new listeners, Jason is one of the co-hosts of the show. Married life, work, and the addition of a baby girl ate up his free time. He now makes a seasonal guest appearance to chat the audience up on his survival projects. His largest and most recent project is in small-scale cattle ranching. ~ Topics Discussed: * Why Jason was wrestling alligators recently * What has become of the ITRH Urban Farm * Lessons learned from urban farming predators * What's the current state Jason's micro-ranching project * Lessons learned from animal husbandry and small-scale cattle ranching ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e189

In this episode, we sit down with Michael Jordan of A Bee Friendly Company. Usually, Michael tells us all about beekeeping. But instead, we're going to talk about perhaps one of the best things you can make with Honey: Mead. ~ Mead Episode Topics: * What has Michael Jordan, the Bee Whisperer, been up to? * What is mead? * What is the history of mead? * How is mead different from beer? * What is the process of making homemade mead? * What are the ingredients used to brew mead? * Is mead hard to make at home? * What equipment is needed to make mead? * How long does it take to brew mead? * How long does mead keep? ~ Mead Episode Resources: ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e188

In this episode, we go back one more time to the vault for Homeschooling part II with the Davis's. Before we get started, this is a rebroadcast of episode 79. We were going to do a fresh episode this week, but so many of you wrote in asking for part II to be replayed. So here it is remastered and reloaded for your listening pleasure. Next week we'll be getting loopy on home made mead in the zombie apocalypse. Homeschooling Topics Tackled: * Myths about homeschooling. * Myths new homeschool parents fall victim to. * One of the funniest "where do babies come from" conversations. * How much time in a day kids need to spend in class. * The museum as a classroom with free teacher's aids. * How much time and commitment it really takes to educate your kids at home. * and other great lessons from a veteran homeschooler and educator. ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Show notes, resources, and links for this episode are available by going to: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e187

In this episode, we go back into the archives for lessons in homeschooling. This is part one of the two-part series on homeschooling with Suanna and Ron Davis. You'll hear myths busted, challenges accepted, and how it works when one parent works and the other teaches. E186 a rebroadcast of E59, no longer in the public feed. Topics: * Why is homeschooling children a viable option? * Will my child be socially inept? * Societal stigmas * Homeschooling Pros and Cons * Are there legal issues homeschoolers have to contend with? * Does homeschooling hurt a child's chances of getting into college? * Where should parents start with homeschooling? Anyway, with that. Let's hear from the Davis's. ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e186

In this episode, we go deep into the ITRH vault to hear a classic not available in the public feed, episode 38. You'll hear from the late great Scout, head of the Texas chapter of Project Appleseed. And I'm joined by co-host Jonathan who helped found ITRH. We all discuss what I still consider the best traditional rifle marksmanship program. Whether you are a new shooter, a seasoned hunter, or tactically trained, Appleseed will teach you something and improve your rifle skills. However, Project Appleseed's rifle marksmanship instruction is only a piece of the lessons learned. Attendees also learn about early American History, what a true rifleman (or woman) is, and meet some amazing quality people along the way. Project Appleseed attendees come from all walks of life and political backgrounds. It's a place for learning and community building. Topics: * What Project Appleseed is. * What Project Appleseed is NOT. * Who can attend and what it costs. * Does Project Appleseed have any political affiliations? * The rifle marksmanship taught by Project Appleseed. * The history taught by Project Appleseed. * Patriotic Duties * Personal Responsibility ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e185

In this episode, we welcome back Author Devon Porter. But today we won't be discussing dystopian fiction. Instead, he shares with use all the delicious good news of growing your own bacon and become a pig farmer. * Why would a prepare or homesteader want to raise pigs? * Which breeds of pigs are the best? * What is the easiest breed of pig to raise for the hobbyist? * What is a basic setup to get started with pig farming? * Do pigs really need wallows? * What kind of fencing do pigs need? * What does a hobby pig farmer use for pig feed? * How can a small pig farmer get into selling pork? * Should you ever name your pigs? * What are the ins and outs of breeding pigs? * At what age should your harvest your pigs? ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e184

In this episode, we sit down with author Mathew Gilman. He's going to share with us a glimpse into his book Home Front and more. Episode Topics: * What got him into writing? * What draws him to dystopian fiction? * How did he become a prepper? * What is the book Homefront about and how does it start? * Does he write books to teach survival or does survival just become part of the story? * What's the best $100 dollars he's ever spent on preparedness? * What's the best preparedness advice he's ever received? * What's his go-to rifle? * What can readers expect from him in the near future? ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e183

In this episode, we sit down with Dan. We're going to discuss a free specialized news web tool designed to keep you informed of dangers. ~ Survival News Topics Covered: * What is Future Danger? * How do they stay on top of news? * How is this different than say Drudge Report? * How does the news and threat heat mapping work? * How is the way they display new specialised for those concerned with threats? * Using Open Source intelligence * Examples of threats in the news * Threat Briefing Topics by FOMag: ~ The Shadow Brokers, NSA, and Edward Snowden: * The Russian agenda to destroy NATO * US National Counter Intelligence and Security Center and the threat to critical infrastructure and supply chains * Learn to stay on top of threats to your safety with Forward Observer Weekly Intelligence Report. ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e182

In this episode, we sit down with Stefan Gleason. He's going to share with us his deep knowledge of the precious metals market. It's a long overdue episode, and you'll learn all the basics of buying gold or silver for your prepper stash. ~ Precious Metals for Preppers Topics: ~ * What role do precious metals play in a good preparedness plan? * What was the Gold Standard? * How has the USA going off the gold standard impacted our paper money and inflation? * What is the "War on Gold"? * Would things ever get bad enough for us to need gold or silver for barter? * What are the tax implications for doing business in gold or silver? * How to get started with physical gold and silver? * Gold vs. Silver for preppers: Why one over the other? * What's the best value -- rounds, bars, or coins? * Are rare, collectible, or proof coins a good buy or a dangerous venture? * What's the best gold or silver buying strategy for preppers? * How do individuals sell gold and silver? * How to choose a precious metals dealer. * What are ETFs? * Can you be the custodian and physically hold your gold or silver in an IRA? ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e181

In this episode, we sit down with author David Kershner. He's going to tell us about his book series, how he came to writing, and a glimpse into how a global cascading civilization failure might happen. ~ Episode Topics Covered ~ * Who is David Kershner? * What's his writing process like? * What would life look like in a farming and food collapse? * How could a food failure cause an economic collapse? * How a food AND economic collapse could lead to a socio-political collapse? * What do an EMP and a food collapse have to do with one another? * How the heck does he keep all the moving parts of a story straight? * What's his go-to rifle? * What's his go-to zombie apocalypse comfort food? * What apocalyptic scenario keeps David up at night? * What does the future hold for David's books? ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e180

In this episode, we sit down with Justin Carroll of Prepper Opsec. We're going to deep dive on your physical security so you can keep yourself and family safe. Physical Security Topics Discussed: * Tricks to keep would-be robbers from knowing your patterns * Restricting access to your most important things * Securing your home * Understanding deadbolts and what to look for in a good one * Picking a better door for your security * The most overlooked ways locks are defeated by thugs and thieves * Does seclusion equal security? * What kind of fence is best for security * Are you hiding your key right where the crooks expect you too? * Understanding Safes, their ratings, and the right one for you * And more ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e179

In this episode, we sit down with Kermit author of the Prepper Pete Series. We're going to discuss teaching kids to prepare without scaring the crap out of them. Kids Preparedness Topics Discussed: * How does Kermit get into the "Writer's Zone"? * Why is he so heavily focus on kids books? * What inspired him to write the book Prepper Pete Prepares? * Why is teaching kids about preparedness important? * Where does Prepper Pete Prepares start? * What is the worst things parents can do when discussing preparedness with their kids? * What changes in the way people prepare when they have kids? ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e178

In this episode, we sit down with Gary of the Guns Over Texas Radio podcast. We're going to discuss what the future may hold, black lives matter, blue lives matter, all lives matter, and what may be one of the most serious disconnects of our generation. Topics Discussed: * MTV's really racist article on the really really racist history of gun control * Black Lives Matter * Blue Lives Matter * All Lives Matter * What does it all mean * How can we finally hear each other * And what's going on with Guns Over Texas Radio ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e177

In this episode, we discuss tips for having a product and persuasive debate on guns and rights. It's easy to throw talking points at one another, but how can we make our time well spent? We'll break it down with 7 tips and share a recent letter to a friend you may find helpful both in points made and things not to do. jk5b4iz6 How to Discuss Guns Productively: First, there are questions you should ask yourself before you get into one of these conversations or debates. Why is this important to you? Why should others care about it? Is what you know hearsay? Are you just regurgitating someone else's talking points? Or have you done the fact finding for yourself? On this last one, statistics get thrown around a lot. It's often easy to find numbers that add up to "I'm right." But you have to ask the hard questions of the numbers you're using. Can you poke holes in them? Can they be legitimately argued against? The 7: Don't bother with those you have no hope of reaching. (pigs roll in the mud. You get dirty and they love it.) Don't dogpile on a person. Listen carefully. Understand people are speaking from a place of fear and ignorance. Remove name calling and otherwise ad hominem attacks from the way your approach conversations. Have depth to your points and stay away from the "because the 2nd". Why is it important? What can it mean to the other person; not you. Remember, you're wrapping a lot of knowledge into little packages. The only people who really know what you're talking about are the people who already agree with you. Don't verbally vomit on people--use proportional responses. Don't forget: There's a SALE on go here: https://www.intherabbithole.com/shop/ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e176

In this ITRH book club episode we sit down with author Bobby Akart. We discuss his books, how he came to being a prepper, and how he wraps preparedness lessons into his books for you. Topics Discussed with author Bobby Akart: How did Bobby come to writing? What authors inspire him? How does the Brahmin series start? What is the "Prepping for Tomorrow" series about? How does he overcome the challange of story telling and teaching at the same time? Why does he think his books resonated with so many people? What is he personally prepping for? What is his prepper pet peeve? What is his go to rifle? What can readers expect from him in the futre? Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net Resources from this episode can be found at: E175: Author Bobby Akart Interview This episode is brought to you by Audible - get a FREE audiobook download and 30 day free trial at Audibletrial.com/itrh. Over 180,000 titles to choose from for your iPhone, Android, Kindle or mp3 player. Go to AudibleTrial.com/itrh to get your free book and 30 day trial!

In this episode we're going to deconstruct the infamous emergency information packet. And our guest, Justin Carol, is going to translate geek to simple for us to make this easy for even the most technologically inept among us. After this episode even my mom who still can't figure out email attachments would be a wizard at preparing and backing up her most sensitive documents. Information Packet Topics Discussed: * Why is it important to make backups of important documents? * What information should preppers, and everyone, backup? * What options are available for local backups, and how do you manage those? * What are best practices for protecting/encrypting the information you have backed up? * Are cloud backup solutions, like Dropbox, a safe way to store important files? * Are there ways to make cloud backups more secure? * How do you keep up with refreshing the information in your backups? ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: E174: Emergency Information Packets

In this episode, we learn how to roll our own. Armada member, and longtime friend of the show, Mark sits us down at his workbench and gives us some schoolin' on ammo reloading. Today's show notes are thanks to the hard work of our guest/member / and friend, Mark. Enjoy! And be sure to thank him for the hard work. ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e173

In this episode, we wrestle with wanting the collapse to come and what a slow collapse might look like. Devon Porter, author of After The Crumble, joins us to illustrate what a societal crumble might look like in this ITRH Book Club Episode. After the Crumble Interview Topics: What inspired Devon to write After the Crumble? How should readers expect to connect with the main character? What causes the slow collapse (aka crumble)? Is this a story with survival lessons or a lesson on survival? What authors inspire Devon? How did he get into preparedness? What's his go-to rifle? When is volume 2 coming out? What's the best $100 he ever spent on survival? Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net Resources from this episode can be found at: Episode 172 Get a free audiobook and 30-day trail: AudibleTrial.com/itrh

In this episode our guest lays out the importance of intelligence gather. With some techniques you can know what's going on before the news. Form intelligence contractor Sam Culper of Forward Observer Magazine lays it all out for us. Threat Intelligence Gathering Episode Topics: How did Sam come to preparedness? What is threat intelligence for generating personal early warning systems? What is Operation Urban Charger? How preppers can develop early warning for SHTF? Can you use these systems to be on top of riots and other disasters? How much of an early warning can preppers get by using these methods? What are the two big intelligence problems people experience that slows them down? How do we solve analysis paralysis? How to do social media and other open source intelligence sources. What is Sam's go to rifle? Special SHTF Intelligence discount code for listener. Quick episode takeaway: If you had to give an elevator pitch for your book, SHTF Intelligence: An Intelligence Analyst's Guide to Community Security, what would it be? In an SHTF senario, we're all going to run into two problems. Number one, we're going to not have enough information to make well informed time sensitive decisions. Or, number two, we going to have way too much information--we're going to be drowning information. And that's going to slow down our decision making process. So threw intelligence [...] we essentially solve both of those problems before we encounter them. To solve the first problem, of not having enough inforation, I talk about intelligence collection and how to get it automated. I talk about human intelligence, and imagery, and open source signals intelligence; all the things we need to set up now so that we can beging getting these threat intelligence streams coming into what we call the A.C.E. (Analysis and Control Element). [...] So setting up those information gathering mechanisms now to solve the first problem. Now to solve the second problem [...] I talk about analysis and how we separate the wheat from the chaff. How we coordinate potentially massive amounts of information and make it relevant [and] ensure that it's timely. [...] The last part of the book is about how to set up an intelligence element: The roles, the tasks and the responsibilities--what everyone does so that at zero hour we know [...] this is what everyone does and this is how we fill this giant blind spot when it comes to threat intelligence. Become a supporting member here: ITRH Robing Horde Armada Resources from this episode can be found at: E171: How to Secrets of Threat Intelligence for Survival

In this ITRH book club episode we sit down with Kermit Jones. He's going to tell us about his book that teaches kids, and many adults, all about firearms safety. Maybe you don't have kids, but you'll still enjoy this episode. Because.... well... guns. And Kermit is a lot of fun. Firearms Safety Topics Discussed: How is Kermit Jones and what makes him an authority about teaching firearms safety to kids. What inspired him to write Prepper Pete's Gun of a Son? What's the biggest challenge when writing a children's book that also appeals to adults? What was your biggest fear when trying to teach his own kids about gun safety? Is it different teaching daughters to shoot as apposed to sons? What's the biggest mistake parents make when it comes to discussing gun safety with their kids? What's the biggest mistake people in general make when it comes to gun safety? What's an appropriate age to teach kids to shoot? How young is too young to teach a child about gun safety? What are the 3 biggest takeaways are from his book when talking to kids about guns? Episode Resources: Kermit's Gun Safety Book: Prepper Pete's Gun of a Son: A Gun Safety Book for Kids Kermit's Website: Prepper Pete and Friends On Facebook Become a supporting member here: ITRH.net Resources from this episode can be found at: Episode 170 Special Announcement: Summer Break Now ITRH also about to go on summer break. This season will end May 25th. Since the ITRH summer shorts were so well received last summer we're going to do those again. So you won't be left without any ITRH episodeds during the summer. They'll just be short 7 to 15 minute episodes probably on the order of every 3 weeks. For those that are new hear and don't know what the summer shorts are all about I'll explain quickly. Hear goes: ITRH goes on break for a few months every summer. But we don't go totally off the air. You'll get short episodes on a less frequent basis of one every two to three weeks. Then we'll be back August 1st.

E169: Strength and Conditioning for Preppers In this episode we sit down with Greg Gottfried. He's a strength and conditioning coach, and fitness podcast host, who's going to pump you up for the apocalypse. So put on your 80s sweatband. We're going to lift heavy. Strength Training Topics Discussed: Who is Greg Gottfried? Why should preppers care about physical fitness? Why do you prefer lifting heavy over cardio? What do people normally get wrong with their exercise regiments? How can people with disabilities become mobile or even physically fit again? What do people most often get wrong with their nutrition? How do you prep, store food, and ensure that your stores are of the best nutritional value? Does sleep and rest play a big role in fitness? Does physical fitness purely mean pushing and pulling weights? How much can be done with simple body weight exercises? How important is having a trainer or coach? How can unable to afford a trainer or coach get good information about physical fitness and ensure they're not going to injure themselves? If a friend or family member was asking for advice on a trainer. Let's say for whatever reason you couldn't work with them. What advice would you give? Quick Takeaways from this episode: How is Greg Gottfried? [...] I'm a strength and conditioning coach. I'm also a track and field throws coach. [...] I also teach CPR and First Aid. I'm a member of my local CERT. And just recently got my HAM license. Do you consider yourself a prepper? Absolutely! And I haven't been my whole life. Hurricane Katrina is what flipped the switch for me. Seeing how helpless people were and the lawlessness... just the devastation really forced me to be honest with what situation my family was in. [...] Since Katrina, I've really gone full bore to make sure my family is safe and prepared. Did watching the aftermath of Katrina make you think, "my G-d, what if this happen to my family?" Yeah! Like I said, it was like a light switch for me. [...] It was like a cartoon lightbulb going off. I was sitting in a town house and we two shared walls. And I was thinking we don't have any extra food. We don't have any water. And my shotguns are stored at my parents house. What the hell do we do? Portland is not a bastion of firearms love and affection. How does that work for you in your area? And is preparedness looked at as being weird in your area? Guns are a hot topic here. And we're not exactly the most welcoming of firearms. [...] It's not something I talked about a lot before I got into all of this, but believe it or not they were all closet preppers too. It always surprises me how there are more people into guns and prepping than most people think. It just takes opening up a little bit, often. Where does preparedness, physical fitness, and nutrition intersect for you? [...] Like I mentioned before, I'm a member of my local CERT and First Aid. I'm a member at the local gun club also. And I can't help but notice how terrible shape people are in. [...] Or the things they're prepping are horrible foods. And it's the thing I like to do: help people fill in those gaps. So when I'm talking to someone about nutrition... I'll bring up, "Well now that you have all these healthy foods, what if we get snowed in? Do you have acces to more foods like this?" Or when I'm talking to people about compressions, it's like... do you think you can maintain chest compressions for 15 minutes before an ambulance shows up? Or can you get that 300 pound vicim out of harms way? I just notice a lot of people are not physically fit. And they call themselves preppers. It kind of gets under my skin. If you're not ready for life right now, how are you going to be ready when a catastrophe hits. Are we going to talk about becoming a gym rat today: making working out like a part time job? How deep are we going to go here? It can be really simple. What's important is that we can move through a full range of motions... in compound movements, like a squat or hip hinge, or be able to push or pull and be pain free. A lot of people are just sitting at their desks all day long. [...] And they just can't move around very well. They just don't have that mobility that they once had as kids. What's important is being about to move through life more efficiently. How do we get there... How many hours a week are we talking for the average person to get and stay functionally fit. It doesn't need to take forever. A good well rounded workout done in an hour. And you don't need to do that every single day. But 3 to 5 times a week is fine. So we're looking at 3 to 5 hours a week. Max. The key is to make sure you're doing the right things. And there it's really important to make sure, especially us guys, and we're finding a trainer or coach get us where we need to go. What do you see people get wrong? That's a great questions. The number one thing I see people get wrong is all they do is cardio. Not that there's anything wrong with cardio. [...] As far a

The final episode of this season, season 5, will be on May 25. ITRH will return August 1st for Season 6. You will be getting the now traditional summer shorts episodes roughly every 3 weeks while the show is on summer break. Angery American Topics Discussed: How did Chris get into writing? Why the extra E in the Angery American nom de plume? What's the significance of having the word home in every title? What inspired Chris to write The Survivalist Series? How should readers expect to connect with the main character? How does the surviving home series start? Does Chris intentionally write to fit in survival tips? What disaster is Chris prepping for? Does he consider himself a prepper or a survivalist or is there a distinction for him? What authors inspire Chris? What's his number one survivalist pet peeve? What's his go to rifle? What's the best $100 dollars he ever spent on preparedness? What should readers expect from him the future? This episode is brought to you by Audible - get a FREE audiobook download and 30 day free trial at Audibletrial.com/itrh. Over 180,000 titles to choose from for your iPhone, Android, Kindle or mp3 player. Special Note: The final episode of this season, season 5, will be on May 25. ITRH will return August 1st for Season 6. You will be getting the now traditional summer shorts episodes roughly every 3 weeks while the show is on summer break. Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e168

In this episode we sit down with Bob Hill; knife maker, kydex maker, and owner of Bob Hill Blades. He's going to share with us the basics of knife making, how to work with Kydex, and a host of other maker topics. ~ Knife Making and Kydex Making Topics Discussed: * How does someone start learning to make knives? * How much tooling up does it take to get into knife making? * How do you determine what angle to put on a knife and does the metal play any part in it? * How long does it take to become proficient at knife making? * Why has Kydex almost replaced leather for holsters and knife sheathes? * What tools would they need for Kydex sheath and holster making? * How expensive is it for a hobbyist to get started making things in Kydex? * Besides holsters and knife sheathes, what else can you make out of Kydex? ~ Quick Takeaways from this Knife Making and Kydex Making Episode: *// What's the best way for someone to learn knife making? What I would suggest to a lot of folks... a number of the supply companies... professional companies where they host grind-ins or hammer-ins... there're clubs that hosts those... a buddy of mine Mike Stewart, he owns Bark River Knives... he hosts three grind-ins a year. And you can go in and see the full process of how they make a knife. And you actually go in and you make a knife. You do as little or as much as you want. *// What's the learning curve on making a knife? The people I've had come here to my shop to learn how to make a knife [...] to really achieve what they have in their mind, it can take a few blades. But the actual getting something functional, might not be pretty, but it'll get the job done, not that bad. I'd say one weekend. [...] That includes some of the metallurgy as well. *// How much tooling up does it take to make knives? You can make a knife with just files. [...] Action filing. You're using files to a fairly high tolerance. Like thousands of an inch. [...] I filed out a small drop point hunter on a Saturday. [For the beginner] forging, I'm a big fan of the gas air forge. [...] You can build your own for about fifty to sixty dollars. [...] You need to have a good anvil and a good base. Then you're going to buy a ton of hammers. [...] You'll evolve into it. [...] But if someone wants to do hobby where they do stock removal, really you could get away with [...] you need some kind of belt grinder to be able to remove material and be able to shape the knife... grind the bevels. Basically take away all the material that isn't the knife. [...] You'll use that on everything whether you're doing Kydex, or leather sheathes... you'll use that to sharpen the knife if you have a good variable speed one and the appropriate belts. It's the tool that you use the most. [...] I would be looking at the 2 inch by 72 inch belts; they're the standard. They're a bit more expensive, but if you're really really wanting to throw down into it. [...] *// Where does forging come in? Forging is nice if you want to be efficient with the materials. [...] It can also be very helpful if you know what you're doing with the heat treating to actually refine the grain structure. [...] They'll anneal out any of the grain structure that they create into it. [...] It ends up being as if it was a homogeneous piece of steel. [...] With forging, you can really go fast getting the material shaped... *// In layman's terms, why does the grain structure of a knife matter? They're not even going to see it. That's going to be the polish and the finish. [...] I'll make word carving chisels for people that have to have a degree of spring. The way that I'm doing those, I want the grain structure to be a certain way so they'll be strong when they're flexing. [...] It's like that last 5% of performance they're trying to get out of it. *// How important is blade geometry? The overall geometry is probably the most important aspect of it [knives]. [...] The basics of the edges where you have hollow grind or a concave grind [...] it'll have a radius [facing into the blade]. Then you'll have falt grind and your convex [grind - radius facing out]. The strongest edge, of course, is convex. Next is the flat grind. Then the hollow grind. Depending upon what you're cutting, if you'll notice the straight razors and things like that, they'll be hollow grind. It's a very feather edge--it's very light; not very strong. Flat grind kind of in-between can be very very sharp, but a little bit stronger. Then convex, which can also be ridiculously sharp, but stronger still. [...] But grinding, setting your edge, and having it be geared towards the task you want to achieve. [For example] all of my camp knives are going to be convex and fairly tall grinds. They're not going to be a super thin edge, but still convex so that it spreads [...] if you're chopping into something it spreads. It's not going to be a hollow grind where the edges would bite whatever you're chopping into. Then the other geometry, like point geometry, if you'

In this episode we sit down with Jason Hanson, found of Spy Escape and Evasion. He's going to share with us some of his CIA training that may just save you're life. ~ Spy Escape and Evasion Topics Discussed:~ * What is the life of the average CIA agent really like? * How did Jason Hanson's journey start? * What is the CIA training like? * Why did he leave the CIA? * What was the most important thing he learned while working for the CIA? * What skills did he get out of his time in the CIA? * What kind of people are signing up for civilian escape and evasion training? * Is there an increase in people becoming concerned about they're safety? * Why is learning about Escape and Evasion an important thing for the average person who is not a big corp CEO or political figure? * What are the main lessons and skills does he teach students for surviving a kidnapping? * What are the EDC items Jason recommends and carries himself? * What hand-to-hand selfdefense methods does he teach? * What weapons does Jason recommend? * Are tactical pens useful and can they be carried on planes? * What are some simple things people can do to avoid being a target of a kidnapping or violent encounter? * How can people protect themselves while traveling? * Can kids be trained in escape and evasion tactics to survive, or even break free, of a kidnapping? ~ Special Note:~ The final episode of this season, season 5, will be on May 25. ITRH will return August 1st for Season 6. You will be getting the now traditional summer shorts episodes roughly every 3 weeks while the show is on summer break. ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e166 ~ Quick Takeaways from this Episode:~ What's the most important skill you learned in the CIA and teach? The most important thing I learned [...] and it's the foundation of everything I of everything else... that's situational awareness. Because if you're not aware, it doesn't matter if you're a great shot with a gun: You'll never see the threat coming... you'll never draw your gun in time. If you're not aware you'll never see that carjacker and you'll be dead and never have a chance to use your evasive driving moves. So really... remaining in condition yellow, which is Jeff Cooper's color code, having your head up and aware of your surroundings, that's the most important thing. [...] If you're head is down, if you're texting, if you can't see that threat coming nothing else matters. Why does the average person need this training? Because it makes you safer in all areas of your life. So the average crime is a crime of opportunity. It's some criminal, for instance, who has a drug addition. And he's standing at your local mall and he's saying "I'm going to watch the entrance and I'm going to target the easiest victim" [...] So if you learn spy skills such as knowing if someone is following you or becoming a human lie detector [...] if you know these skills you'll be able to go home. How hard is it to learn lie detection? Lie detection is not as difficult as you think. There are many different signals. [...] It's several hours I spend on it in my course, but I can share one of the tips with you today that's one of the many things you look for: When you ask someone a question, pay attention to the first three to five seconds of their response. So most people are not born to lie. [...] But when you ask questions [...] honest people doen't hesitate. [...] dishonest people, because we're not born to lie, they pause and by time because their brain has to come up with a lie. How do we tell if we're being followed? In the spy world we have what's called a surveillance protection route. That's a very fancy way of saying just don't go from point A to point B. [...] Go from A to B to C so you can see if you're being followed. [...] If you see the same person there that's a good clue your being followed. [...] Exactly, you're forcing them into a pattern. Your forcing them to get out of a natural state. [...] Going to three different sections, the chances that that same guy is going to follow you and do that is very very slim. So you're probably being followed. What skills does someone need to survive a kidnapping? During the two day spy course we teach people how to: escape duck tape, escape rope, pick handcuffs using a hair barret and bobby pen, lock picking, lie detection, hot-wiring a car, and self defense moves. We train people, in a way, to become a professional hostage. [...] Leave evidence to make yourself easier to find. [...] So gag yourself so you throw up. That way you're leaving DNA and all this trace evidence. You want to cut yourself, if you can. Not so you bleed to death. [...] just a little blood. [...] wipe it under a table [...] not on top of the table, so it's harder to find [...] go to a corner of the carpet, rip it up, and put blood under the carpet. So you want to leave this trail. That way your family can s

In this episode we sit down with Sam Coffman, founder of The Human path. We're going to discuss going beyond first aid, his survival school, and herbal medicine without the nonsense. Sam is known for running one of the most respected survival, emergency wilderness medicine, and herbal medicine schools in the coutnry. But he's definately not what you'd expect from someone involved with herbal medicine. He's a no nonsense straight shooting kind of guy who lays it all out for us today. Topcs Discussed: Who is Sam Coffman and how did he get into herbal medicine? What is he trying to accomplish with his survival school the human path? How do martial arts and medicine coexist and intertwine Are there formal schools for herbal medicine? What is the real history of the medical and pharmacology? How did herbalism devolve into woowoo silliness for a number of years? What is alopathy? Does herbal medicine actually work and in what instances? When is conventional medcine the right choice over herbal medicine? What is the correct perspective in which to understand herbal medicine? What's the difference between ditch medicine, wilderness emergency medicine, and herbal medicine? In a grid down situation, how much can actually be accomplished medically speaking with herbal medicine? Going beyond first aid, where should preppers start getting trained in emergency medicine and herbal medicine? The Human Path goes way beyond medicine. What other survival courses are taught? What are the three most important things preppers need to focus on when it comes to emergency medicine? Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e165

In this episode sit down with Paul Martin. He's going to share with us lessons in making preparedness a full contact community sport. We'll also discuss practical things preppers often overlook while being distracted by the more exciting yet unlikely scenarios. ~ Topics covered in this episode: * Who is Paul Martin? * Mistakes all preppers make * The impracticality of chemical attack suits * Preparedness as a community action instead of solely going it alone * Practical prepper advice for the NON-zombie Apocolypse emergency * Life insurance as a prep * Disability insurance as a prep * Longterm care insurance as a prep * Why is preparedness good citizenship? ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e164

In this episode we go back in time to hear an ITRH classic: Prepper Spring Cleaning — time to organize and maybe rethinking your prepps. Hard to believe this episode was 99 episodes ago. As preppers, we are often in procurement mode. And we fail to go back and organize all the gear, food, and other stored preps. So a long time ago we established we we like to call "Prepper Spring Cleaning". It's an annual practice of reviewing and organizing our piles-of-prepper-shit. ~ Episode Topics: * Replacing survival gear with survival skills * Bugout Bags * EDC Bags * Emergency Kits * Getting organized * Making check lists * Bugout bag spreadsheets * ...and more. ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e163

In this episode we welcome back Marshall of GoingGear. He's going to share with us all the ins, outs, and what-the-hecks about water filters for camping and bugout bags. We're also going to dive into food and stoves for camping. Plus, a special bonus. Topics: What are the different types of camping water filters? How effective are water purification tables? Hollow tube filters vs ceramic filters, which is best? Do UV (ultraviolet) filters actually work? Active carbon filters, the end all be all? Do the chemical water purification tablets really work? Do you have to worry about viruses in the water when choosing a filter? What is the real lifetime of a water filter? White gas vs Kerosene camping stoves. How effective are alcohol stoves? How well do chemical tab stoves work? What's the best food option for backpacking? What camping food DYI options are there? ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e162

In this episode we sit down the David Merrill. He's a writter for Breach Bang Clear, Recoil Magazine, and a few other tactical rags I'm sure you've heared of. As a retired Marine and foreign wepaons instructor, he's got to chops to tell us about gear and real world use. So if you've been wanting to kit up, or just love gear, sit back and relax. ~ Topics discussed: * What do you look for in body armor? * Is it more comfort or more protection? * What are the levels of plate carries and bullet proof vests? * What are the best mag pouches? * How do you combine the use of HSGI soft magazine pouches and kydex mag holders? * Why drop-leg holsters suck? * How useful are battle belts? * What's the best eye protection? * What do you do about hearing protection? * Should people actually invest in tactical helmets? * The tactical neckerchief. * Why do shamans suck? * What are David's gear pet peeves? ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e161

Fair warning to all: I'm getting married in April. Then again in November. That means to you the show will be a mix of shorts and full length episodes up through April. November shouldn't be impacted though. I'm going to work hard to ensure their is at least one show a week for ya'll. In case you're wondering why there's two weddings. The short answer is the April wedding a is civil wedding just to get the show on the road. The second was due to coordinating the religious stuff and people flying in from the other side of the world. Now, I did say at least one show a week. Which would allude to there being more than one episode a week. It's something I've been kicking around lately. I'm thinking about doing one episode a week strictly on personal and home security much like the Safe House show I was doing. And I'm thinking about a listener question show. But I want your input. YOUR input, not do you think other people would like it. Would you like ITRH to start doing either or both of these as extra weekly episodes? Tell me today in the comments section of this episode. If there's enough interest I'll start ramping up to do one or both. My plan is to move another step closer this year toward ITRH being a full time thing. Moving on… For the last six months I've gone without TV news. What I consumed in the way of what was going on in the world was strictly from reading the headlines on websites like Drudge Report. Occasionally, something would peek my interest and I'd click on through to a story. For the most part I got what I needed to know from the headlines. To get the Walking Dead and the small handful of shows we watch we just used Amazon and the Apple TV. And that worked well. Till about four weeks ago… I was upgrading my internet speed connection while moving into the new house. In doing so Jen asked me to bring TV back. She wanted to watch the man hating channel as the women from Comcast said and laughed. Also known as Life Time. So we have TV again. So I turned on the news for the first time in six months. You know what I saw? Nothing. Seriously. Nothing. All kinds of stuff in the world is going on. Good stuff. Bad stuff. Weird stuff. Albinos are being hunted in Africa by witch doctors. But what do we have in the news: A near literal dick swinging contest between grown men and one woman. If I understood it right, there was an actual who's is bigger thing during a debate the other night. And this is for the most powerful position in our country—arguably in the world? Recently someone asked me which lever I'd be pulling in the presidential election. I replied, "I'm not going to waste my time till they add an option that says boiling hot oil for all candidates." I've been getting emails from some of y'all that can be summed up as this: "Do you think X will happen if candidate Y is elected." I think this country is so far down the rat whole it doesn't matter. They're all clowns and it's all a big circus in the Roman sense. Actually, they may be giving clowns a bad name. I'm going to play you a short clip from a movie called Dinner with Andrea. For those unfamiliar with the film it may sound like something made today. I think this clip speaks to what most of us in the community, maybe beyond, are feeling. But this was made back in 1981. Have a listen. Kind of resinates doesn't it. Now this may all seem defeatist in nature. You may have made up your mind that candidate fill in the blank name will save us all. IF that's you, there's no value in me trying to convince you otherwise. So I'm not going to try to. Being done with the idea of a state is something you either come to on your own or never at all. And no one can really lead you there. Someone can show you the door, but you have to open it for yourself. But the will X happen if Y candidate brings us to really the root message of the show as a whole: Stay safe and sound. You hear it twice in every episode. A similar conversation came up recently with all the stuff most people aren't paying attention to in the middle east involving Russia. Boiled down the question was this: Is World War III coming? The answer to all of it is this: Perhaps. Perhaps not. But the question you should be asking yourself is this: What are you going to do about it outside your circle of influence? I can blow three hours fighting traffic, finding parking, waiting in line, to push a button for someone I think will at worst do the least damage. OR I can spend three hours working on my garden, working on personal wealth and independence, interact with my community, or do something to increase my knowledge. To me, that seems like a more productive use of my time because these are all things inside my circle of influence. And you'll only keep yourself safe by making sound decisions which impact your life. You can't worry about the decisions you made yesterday; you can only learn from them and move on. You can't worry about the decisions you'll make in the future because you don't know

Spring is nearly upon us. For many that means they're getting ready to venture back out into the woods--or they're wondering out for the first time. But gear can be expensive and confusing. So in this episode our resident outdoor gear expert, Marshal of GoingGear.com, gives us in insider information on your most important pieces of equipment. Join us as he answers these camping gear questions: What makes one camping tent better than another? How do you evaluate the right tent for a person's camping needs? Are hammock tents really any good? Are there two-person hammock tents? Can you camp in cold weather with a hammock tent? What are the different types of sleeping bags? Which kind of sleeping bag is right for which kind of situation? Is there a "best" type of sleeping back for all situations? What's the best type of sleeping pad? And a lot more ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e159

It's time for the annual ITRH Super Random Pile-O Preper Shit Gear Show. For 2016 Jonathan and I sit down and review books, gear, tools, and all things "prepper gear" we've played with in the last year. ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e158

It's been a while since we've talked about what's going on on the ITRH farm and Jason's Ranching Adventures. So today we catchup on all the goings on. Some sad news, some crazy news, and some happy news. We discuss: * Snakes and ranching * Animal husbandry * Is ranching really easier than raising small animals? * Aaron's run in with a pack of wild dogs with a wild twist * And a lot more ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e157

Buggout route planning done correctly occupies the minds of many preppers. Or at least it should. But it's complicated. And there are many options. So today we welcome back author Chris Herndez to get his perspective. He's going to share his thoughts based on decades of military leadership and law enforcement experiance. Plus, we'll dive into some other topics to dimisify things you may have never thought to ask about. Buggout Route Planning Topics: The dangers of conspiracy theories. Jade Helm jokes Buggout Route Planning The value of coutry roads The perrils of highspeed avenues of escape Escaping martial law What does the national gaurd actually do? When is Chris' next book due out? What is his next book about? Is Chris a fortune teller? ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e156

In this episode we discuss one of the most common things preppers wrestle with: How long should you prepare for. The answer: It depends. But we can beging to solve this quandry by asking our selves three questions: 1) What do you think is going to happen? 2) How bad do you think it's really going to be? 3) How long will it last till barter starts up or stores open back up? Let's discuss together. ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e155

In this episode we sit down with James Price to discuss surviving everything from an active shooter to a typical mugging. Active shooter situations and crime are on the rise. They may even get much worse. Are you prepared? Today James will share insight into what students of his Domestic Protector class learn. We'll also cover simple things you can do to survive violent encounters. ~ Surviving active shooter situation topics: * Jame's prediction about the frequenting of these types of shootings. * Takeaways from the San Bernardino shooting. * Takeaways from the Paris terrorist attacks. * Will this inspire copycat spree-killers? * How was the Domestic Protector class put together? * Are armed civilians more safe? * Why should you start practicing one handed shooting more? * What is a sheepdog and what is an armed civilian? * How should you respond to an active shooter? * Are active shooter situations different from a violent mugging? * What can be improvised to jam door from an attack? ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e153

AK-47s have a mystic all their own. But they also have a lot of hyperbol. So... In this episode we sit down with AK-47 legend Jim Fuller of Rifle Dynamics. He's going to set us straight on the truth, myths, and proper perspective in understanding these comblock badasses. ~ AK-47 topics covered in this interview: * What's Jim Fuller's story? * How did RIfle Dynamics come to be? * What makes the AK-47 so special? * Is the AK-47 durability fact or urban legend? * Is the AK-47 accuracy deficit fact or urban legend? * What's the real perspective to take when it comes to the purpose of an AK-47? * What myths, or overblow facts, exist around the AK? * What advantages does the AK have over the AR-15? * What is it about AKs that make them stand up to steel case ammo so well? * What's the effective range of a standard AK? * What considerations must be made when looking to put glass on an AK? * When it comes to shopping the import and budget market, what should be looking for in an AK? * What are Jim's thoughts on the Kalashnikov USA rifles? * What's the difference between a Ak-47 and it's perhaps lesser known brother the AK-74? * What's the difference between AK and the much lesser known VZ58? ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e152

How to choose a survival knife is common quandary. There are so many options. There are so many things to consider. In this episode we sit down with Marshal of GoingGear.com to answer those questions. This is one of our favorite topics: Knives! They often don't get enough air time here. But they are one of the most important and basic tools of survival. And it doesn't matter if it's for EDC (Every Day Carry) or for treking through the woods. A good knife's value can't be stressed enough. ~ Basic considerations for a knife topics discussed: * What's the most useful size of pocket knfie? * What are the best locking mechanizms and why are they important? * What things does Marshal consider when looking at pocket knives for himself? * What knife point type makes the most senses to you for pocket knives? * What are the best handle matterials for pocket knives? * Are knife super-steels all hype? * What are the new super-steels these days? * What's the story on Elmax steel? * How do A2 and D2 tool steels hold up for knives? * What are the top brands in pocket knives—excluding the super high end custom stuff? * What's the big fuss about Zero Tolerance knives? * What's the most useful blade length for a fixed blade knife? * What are things to you consider when looking at a good fixed blade camping knife? * What are things to you consider when looking at a good fixed blade bushcraft knife? * Does blade grind type / geometry really matter in a fixed blade knife? Coated or uncoated knives? * What are the best handle matterials for fixed blade knives? * To full tang or not to care about full tang, does it really matter? ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e151

Choosing rifle optics is confusing. They're also can be a big investment. So in this episode we sit down with Marshal, owner of Primary Arms. He's going to help clarify and demystify rifle optics. Rifle optics topics covered: * How much should people spend on opitics for a rifle? * What are the basics of selecting the right opitic for a rifle? * How does eye relief play into scope selection? * How would someone decide on magnification? * How do you select the right reticle? * What impact does tube size have on a scope's function? * What impact does the bell of a scope vs a straight tube have? * What is parallax and why should people care about it? * What is first focal plane and why is it important in rifle scopes? * What would someone look for in a hunting scope? * So whats the difference between a hunting scope and a sniper scope? * What's the difference between a hunting or tacitcal sope and a rimfire scope? * Is there really any difference when deciding on rings and mounts for scopes? * What advantages does a fixed power scope give? * What should people know when looking for a red dot? * What should people use and never use when cleaning their optics? ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e150

It's veteran's day 2015. This year we're doing a special episode with Jeremy Paris, host of the Veteran Resource Podcast. Whether you are a vet or just want to find about about getting involved with organizations, you'll get a lot out of this epsidoe. Typically folks in the survival podcast genre will talk about what it means to serve. And they may tell stories of their service. But we have something different that could actually help vets. You see, the Veteran Resource Podcast was created to introduce veterans to Veteran Service Organizations. And as you find out in this episode there are THOUSANDS out there! We've all heared of the Wounded Warrior project. But there are a lot more out there, it turns out. One is even focused on sustainable farming. ~ Veteran resource topics discussed: * Jeremy's service in the military * How the the Veteran Resource Podcast got started? * What is the mission his podcast? * What keeps you inspired to do his show? * How many veteran organizations are there? * Why are there so many different veteran organziations? * Why is it important to support veteran organizations? * What are some of the different organizations out there that people might want to get invovled in? * Can people who've never served get involved and voluteer? * If someone wanted help support vets, would supporting one of these organizations be the best way? * How would people go about evaluating a few organizations to find the one that's right for them? ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e149

Civil Air Patrol is a bit of a red headed step child. In fact, it's probably one of the most interesting voluteer organizations most people have never heared of. In this episode we sit down with Bobby Allison of Civil Air Patrol. He's going to share with us what C.A.P. is, what they do, and why you should consider getting involved. And, we'll even discuss how you might be able to get some survial training. ~ Civil Air Patrol Topics Discussed: * What is Civil Air Patrol and what does the organization do? * How long has it been around * When was CAP formed and for what purpose? * How does CAP supplement or augment what the US Air Force already does? * Seems kids can get involved in this too. What role do they play? * What do volunteers get out of it? * Does CAP have any role in border security? * What role does CAP play in disaster relief? * What kind of training programs does CAP have? * When it comes to adults, is CAP only open to active or retired Air Force? * What roles are there for members? * If someone wanted to get involved in CAP, what would they need to do? ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e148

In this episode we sit down with the the Bee Whisperer, Michael Jordan. He'll share his knowledge of beekeeping, philisophical masterbation, and life lessons. ~ Beekeeping topics covered in this episode include: * Why do we need more beekeepers in the world * Why would someone want to get into beekeeping * How much work are bees to get started * How much work are bees once they get established * What is the minimum financial investment an Urban bee keeper would need to make * Why is it said that bees choose the keeper, and that it's not the other way around * What would you say are the common downfalls for most people that first get into bees * Who can people get over the fear of keeping bees * Is beekeeping a real moneky maker * Is beeking difficult * What does a Bee Suit usually run * How long does it really take to get to a place of being productive with beekeeping * What are the bee union hours * Are there alternatives to the typical honey bee * What is sustainable beekeeping * What's the latest news on coloney collapse? * What can people do to help bee populations? * What can people plant to feed honey bees? * Why would bees reject a hive and fly off? ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e147

Precision rifles come with a lot of mystic and myth. In this episode we sit down with famed gunsmith Ed Vanden Berg of Vanden Berg Custom. He's going to set us straight on all the ends and outs of what it takes to make a precision rifle precise. This won't be a buy-this-gun or that conversation. And it won't be a go with this caliber, trigger, barrel, or stock conversation. Instead, this will be a primer that breaks down the basics of what does and does not make a rifle shoot true. * Are bolt-action rifles inherently more accurate than semi-auto rifles? * How big of a role does the action play in the accuracy of a rifle? * How big of a role does the caliber, in the sense of total cartridge package, actually play in accuracy? * What's so special about 260 remington and 6.5? * Match grade or rolling your own: Does it really make a difference? * What is internal balistics? * What is external balistics? * What is terminal balistics? * How big of a role does the barrel play in the accuracy of a rifle? * What is barrel harmonics really all about? * Does barrel length play a part in accuracy or is purely about squeezing out velocity? * What does free floating both is semi-auto and bolt-action a barrel really do? * Can a rifle sling impact the accuracy of a rifle? * Is there really a "Best" precision rifle barrel maker? * What is barrel religion? * Does fulting a barrel impact the accuracy of a rifle? * How big of a role does the rifle stock play in the accuracy of a rifle? * Does trigger weight impact the accuracy of a rifle? * What's the best trigger weight? * What does a custom precision bolt-action rifle cost? * What does a custom precisoin semi-auto rifle cost? * What are the biggest myths fo long range shooting? ~ Become a supporting member here: http://www.itrh.net ~ Resources from this episode can be found at: http://www.intherabbithole.com/e146