Trent of the Vision Preparedness YouTube channel is here to discuss his video “You can only control what you can control.” Seems obvious, right? Yes, and it’s something I know I’m not always good at—and as a prepper, should be.

Trent learned that lesson watching people struggle during Hurricane Katrina. And those struggles, combined with the lack of a timely or coherent response from the government and aid organizations, prompted Trent to become a prepper. He wanted to control what he could, which was his own safety and well-being. 



His “You can only control what you can control” video came about when he began switching off the “doom and gloom,” and instead controlling the influx of vitriol, anger, fear, etc. Some things that Trent can control are: 

 	His ability to provide for his family if the grocery stores shut down. (He can’t control the grocery stores themselves)
 	He can control whether he has backup power available when the grid fails. (He can’t control whether the power grid remains energized)
 	How much time he spends watching the fearmongers—the Mainstream Media, fear porn-promoting preppers. 

Pulling himself out of the emotion of what he can’t control allows him (and you) to control your stress levels. After all, we, as preppers, already stress more than we should. And, since stress is NOT good for us, it’s an excellent idea to self-regulate when possible. 

One of the things that we can control is our expectations. That expectation is a realistic look at our level of preparedness. We can only be as prepared as we are, and that’s the best we can do now. Part of being a prepper is having the flexibility and wherewithal to have a plan for when our preps run out or don’t meet our needs. There’s only so much we can do. And that’s okay. Control what you can control.
Additional Resources:

 	Mental Fortitude: 7 Steps to Develop Mental Toughness
 	Top 10 Confucius Quotes For Preppers
 	152: Top 4 Prepping Concerns for 2023 with Dale Goodwin

 

Stay safe,

156: Control What You Can Control with Trent McMurray

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Imagine never having to throw away food again. That's every prepper's dream. Guess what? It is possible, and in this article, I'll discuss 15 foods to stockpile that never expire. This doesn't mean they will last millennia, but many of these foods may outlive you.

It's a fact that during uncertain times and emergencies, having a stockpile of survival food can provide peace of mind, knowing that you and your loved ones' nutrition needs are taken care of. While some foods, such as dehydrated fruit and boxes of processed food, have long shelf lives, some foods are the champions of survival and outlast most others by decades. These foods are crucial for any preparedness-minded person who wants to ensure their survival food pantry is ready for the long haul.

In this article, I will discuss 15 foods that, when stored properly, will last indefinitely. That means you can store them away without worrying that they will expire within a year or two or go bad because checking them slipped your mind. 


1. Canned Meat
Canned meat has excellent longevity. While fresh meat requires refrigeration and quickly spoils, canned meat can remain edible for years. This is because the canning process cooks the meat thoroughly and seals it away from the air, preventing the growth of bacteria and spoilage. 

Typical meats like beef, chicken, and pork are available in canned form. When canned, they retain most of their nutrients and caloric value, making them an excellent source of energy and protein in times of need. That's important because protein is crucial for survival and is often overlooked in favor of carbohydrate-based foods like rice, beans, and pasta. Protein is vital for maintaining muscle mass, repairing tissues, and supporting immune function. Therefore, adequate protein intake is essential to maintaining strength and resilience during times of stress and physical challenge.

Canned meat is pre-cooked, which means you can eat it straight from the can—a benefit when your time and ability to cook might be limited during a disaster. While canned meats are generally safe, it's important to know how to identify signs of spoilage. Always inspect the can before use and give the meat a smell test after opening—it should smell fresh and meaty, not sour or unpleasant. Never consume canned meat if the can is bulging, leaking, or rusting, as these are signs of bacterial contamination. 

When selecting canned meat for your emergency supplies, consider variety. Beyond the usual chicken and beef, options like turkey and exotic meats can provide different flavors and nutritional profiles. This variety can help prevent food fatigue and ensure you get a wide range of nutrients.


2. Canned Vegetables
Among the many long-term food choices available, canned vegetables stand out as a stellar option for several reasons. Notably, they are one of the food items that can practically last forever under the right conditions.

Canned vegetables are an excellent food pantry choice because the canning process seals in the freshness and nutrients of the vegetables at their peak. This means you're not just storing food but preserving its nutritional value. Whether it's green beans, carrots, corn, or peas, canned vegetables can remain safe to eat far beyond their 'best by' dates, provided they are correctly stored and remain unopened in a cool, dry place.

Another reason to include canned vegetables in your survival pantry is their versatility. They can be used in various dishes, from stews and soups to mixed in a bowl of rice, enhancing your meals' flavor and nutritional content when fresh produce may not be an option. Like canned meat, canned vegetables can be eaten without cooking. So, if you are eating on the run or don't want to start a fire, all you need to do is open the can and dig in. 


15 Foods to STOCKPILE That NEVER Expire!

This episode dives into an insightful discussion with Jason Nelson, the CEO of PrepperBeef.com. Jason's refreshing perspective and extensive experience provide a wealth of knowledge that is invaluable for anyone interested in preparedness, self-reliance, and high-quality food. Here's a summary of our conversation, which covers everything from military experiences to the intricacies of food production.
Healthy Food and Production Process
With my interest in freeze-dried food, I was excited that our discussion focuses on PrepperBeef.com's production of quality, healthy, and natural freeze-dried beef. It was a great learning experience listening to Jason explain PrepperBeef.com's product journey, from the hand-selected cows to the plastic bags, sous vide cooker, and freezing. Regarding product quality, Jason stressed the importance of using 100% American-raised beef in his product, which can last 10 to 25 years, depending on conditions. 

Be sure to Check Out PrepperBeef.com for Your Long-Term Food Protein Needs

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Agrarian Support and Food Quality
Jason's civil affairs background shines through in his philosophy of creating simple solutions to complex problems. We discussed the need for more support in the agricultural sector and the creation of mid-level tech jobs to benefit local communities. Our conversation touched on food pricing and availability, focusing on how emerging technologies can improve the situation. 

We also explored the production of high-quality, organic beef, discovering that separating and preserving different cuts of meat can provide an appealing product in various situations, such as power outages, camping, and long-term disasters. One key takeaway from Jason's engaging conversations is the importance of knowing the source of your food, as many companies use subpar ingredients. 

Ultimately, Jason reinforced my belief that the effort involved in providing high-quality food is significant but worthwhile. After all, our bodies are not meant to run on the chemicals, preservatives, and other ingredients incorporated into the mass-produced, processed "food" that lines the shelves of supermarkets today. 
Disaster Preparedness and Self-Sufficiency
Jason and I are preparedness-minded people, so our discussion naturally led to disaster preparedness. We emphasized the importance of planning for worst-case scenarios and expressed concerns about the lack of readiness among many people. Jason emphasized a point most in the prepping community know that the decreasing self-sustainability of Americans will lead to catastrophic issues if the country's infrastructure is ever disrupted. As such, having a backup plan that goes beyond basic survival needs is essential. 
The Impact of Hardship and Struggle on Perspective


Next, Jason and I shared our concerns about the need for mental understanding many have about emergencies. That need comes from the fact that many people, to no fault of their own, have never genuinely struggled in disastrous circumstances. Through exposure to various high-consequence situations, people can fully develop their "in-the-moment" understanding of the gravity of disasters and how to respond more effectively. Jason had an excellent observation when he pointed out that the human brain doesn't fully develop until age 25,

Freeze Dried Prepper Beef with Jason Nelson

In this episode, I sit down with Nikos Katsikanis to explore various facets of preparedness related to civilians caught in a modern war. Our conversation focuses on our personal and professional lives, survival strategies, and broader societal implications of recent events. This episode offers insights into preparedness, resilience, and the importance of community support in an increasingly complex world.

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Subscribe to Nikos's YouTube Channel!
Preparedness and Survival: War and Disaster Scenarios
Nikos discusses preparedness and survival in relation to the SHTF disaster of warfare. He details how the Russian invasion of Ukraine fueled his interest in preparedness, emphasizing self-reliance and community support. We discussed evacuation challenges and essential supplies like food, water, and sturdy footwear. Nikos underscores knowing one's limitations and relying on others in survival situations.
Ukraine Invasion: Preparedness and Resilience
We explored how Ukraine has coped with the invasion, noting solid ties to Poland and neighboring countries that facilitated aid. Community spirit and self-sufficiency, including farming and gardening, also played a key role. I drew comparisons to significant disasters, emphasizing human resilience.
COVID-19 Pandemic: Impacts and Isolation
In this section, we explore the impacts of the pandemic and government measures. Nikos talks about his frustration with the lockdown mandates and many people's lack of critical thinking when approaching our modern world. He also shares struggles with mental health post-pandemic, and we reflect on the problems of increased isolation in society. 
Critical Thinking: Navigating a Divisive World
With regard to critical thinking, we highlighted its importance in an era of misinformation and fear, amplified by events like COVID-19 and the war in Ukraine. We discussed how these events impact mental health and people's ability to analyze information. We also emphasized the role of online communication in dividing opinions and concentrating the elite's power through narrative control.
Societal Issues and Preparedness
We discussed societal issues and the role of government. Nikos shared his experience fleeing a potential invasion, and we emphasized preparedness, including emergency supplies and evacuation plans. We also highlighted the role of communication systems in such situations and discussed the challenge of setting "tripwires" or evacuation triggers, especially for families.
Ukraine Conflict and Refugee Crisis
Our conversation touched on the Ukraine conflict's impact on people and the global response. We talked about refugee aid efforts and the geopolitical dynamics, with Nikos expressing skepticism towards some actors. I emphasized the need to prioritize ordinary people, and concerns arose about corporate interests influencing policies.
Veterans and PTSD Support
Next, we explored PTSD challenges faced by veterans and the lack of adequate support due to financial incentives influencing the pharmaceutical industry and therapists. The conversation shifted to Ukraine, addressing the psychological impacts on soldiers and the lack of support. Spirituality as a form of relief was also considered.
Ukraine War Support Strategies
Nikos and I expressed concern over Ukraine's suffering,

Modern Warfare: A Real World SHTF Event

Join us in this episode with the founder of the Mountain Readiness Expo, Robert ' T' Toombs.

We discuss everything from what started T prepping, to what concerns him most with the world today. We also dive into the importance of building community and networks, along with the benefits of self-sufficiency.

Click the player to listen!



Stay safe,

Mountain Readiness with Robert ‘T’ Toombs

In this episode, we dive deep into survival medicine, exploring the critical importance of being prepared for medical emergencies, especially in light of current events. Joe and Amy Alton help us unravel why it's crucial now, more than ever, to gear up medically for disasters and troubled times that may be heading our way. Listen to the entire episode! 

For more information on medical preparedness, check out DoomandBloom.net. 
Key Points Discussed in This Show:
1. RSV, COVID, and Vaccine Challenges:

 	Overview of RSV and COVID-19 and their impacts on global health.
 	The complexities involved in vaccine development and why it's a challenging task.

2. The Importance of Medical Preparedness:

 	Why preparing for medical emergencies is crucial in today's world.
 	The potential consequences of being unprepared in a health crisis.

3. The Urgency of Prepping in Current Times:

 	Key reasons why medical prepping is more essential than ever.

4. Understanding Survival Medicine:

 	Defining survival medicine and its importance in disaster scenarios.

5. Preparing for Medical Emergencies During Disasters:

 	Strategies to prepare for health-related emergencies in adverse situations.
 	The importance of having a plan and being informed about common medical emergencies.

6. Essential Disaster Medical Supplies:

 	A comprehensive list of must-have medical supplies for disaster preparedness.

7. Necessary Medical Skills for Survival:

 	Critical medical skills everyone should learn for surviving disasters.

The Bottom Line on Survival Medicine
We wrap up the episode by emphasizing the need for readiness in the face of uncertainty. With the proper knowledge, supplies, and skills, one can significantly increase their chances of survival and recovery during and after a disaster. Remember, preparation is vital in survival medicine, and your actions today can determine your resilience tomorrow.
Additional Resources:

 	My Diagnostic Medical Kit (A Paramedic's Personal Gear)
 	12 Best Wound Care Supplies (Survival Medical Kit)
 	What to Keep in Your Trauma Medical Kit

 

Stay safe,

156: Control What You Can Control with Trent McMurray

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