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Having the Privacy Mindset

In this episode of The Privacy & Freedom Podcast, Forrest Garvin dives into the foundation of digital privacy — the mindset. Before you install a VPN, delete social accounts, or buy a Faraday bag, you must first understand how to think privately in a world built to watch you.

Forrest explains why true privacy starts with awareness, discipline, and intention — not gadgets. He exposes how corporations, governments, and data brokers profit from your every click, and why reclaiming control isn’t paranoia — it’s freedom. You’ll learn how to shift from convenience-driven habits to privacy-driven decisions that protect your identity, assets, and peace of mind.

This episode explores the psychology behind privacy — how our digital behavior reveals who we are, and how adopting a “privacy mindset” helps you take back power over your data, your finances, and your future. Forrest shows that privacy and security are not optional anymore; they are acts of freedom and the first step toward real independence.

At Garvin Academy, Forrest teaches these principles in depth through his flagship course, Disappear on the Internet — a 25-hour masterclass that helps people just like you separate their real life from their digital footprint. Because when it comes to modern freedom, privacy isn’t a luxury… it’s survival.

Listen now to learn how to build your privacy mindset — and why privacy and security are freedom, not fear.

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Podcast Summary – Prepping Academy Podcast: “VPNs Explained – The First Line of Defense for Online Privacy”

In this powerful episode of The Prepping Academy Podcast, host Forrest Garvin exposes the truth about VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) — what they really do, how they work, and which ones you can actually trust. As online tracking, censorship, and surveillance continue to rise, using a VPN has become a critical step in protecting your privacy, security, and freedom online.

Forrest breaks down how VPNs encrypt your data, hide your location, and shield your digital activity from hackers, corporations, and even your internet provider. You’ll discover the top VPNs for privacy, the red flags to avoid, and why many “free” VPNs are more dangerous than helpful. Plus, he shares insider tips on using VPNs with your smartphones, routers, and streaming devices for complete protection.

If you value anonymity, freedom, and security in a connected world, this episode is a must-listen. Learn how to stay invisible online — the right way.

Keywords: VPN, online privacy, cybersecurity, data protection, internet security, best VPNs 2025, anonymity online, PrepperNet, Prepping Academy Podcast, Forrest Garvin.

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Podcast Summary – Prepping Academy Podcast: “The Truth About Internet Browsers – Which Ones Keep You Safe?”

In this episode of The Prepping Academy Podcast, host Forrest Garvin breaks down one of the most overlooked areas of online privacy — your internet browser. Every click, search, and website visit leaves a digital trail, and your browser is often the biggest source of data collection, tracking, and surveillance.

Forrest compares the most popular browsers — Chrome, Firefox, Brave, Edge, and DuckDuckGo — revealing which ones spy on you, which actually protect your privacy, and how to configure your browser for maximum anonymity. You’ll learn about browser fingerprinting, private search engines, extensions that protect your data, and the crucial settings every prepper and privacy-minded American should change today.

If you care about staying private online, blocking trackers, and avoiding Big Tech surveillance, this episode is packed with practical, easy-to-follow advice. Don’t miss this deep dive into the tools that keep your digital footprint off the grid.

Keywords: private browsers, privacy tools, online security, browser tracking, DuckDuckGo, Brave browser, digital privacy, PrepperNet, Prepping Academy Podcast, Forrest Garvin.

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Podcast Summary – Prepping Academy Podcast: “Data Breaches & Hacks Update – Protecting Your Digital Life”

In this week’s episode of The Prepping Academy Podcast, we dive deep into the world of data breaches, cyberattacks, and online privacy — and what you can do right now to protect yourself. From the latest major corporate hacks to the quiet data leaks that expose your personal information on the dark web, we break down the biggest threats of 2025 and how they impact preppers, patriots, and everyday Americans.

Host Forrest Garvin, founder of PrepperNet and cybersecurity expert, shares real-world updates on the most recent U.S. data breaches, the tactics hackers are using today, and why even “secure” companies are falling victim. You’ll learn the top five steps to safeguard your identity, prevent tracking, and lock down your devices before it’s too late.

If you value your privacy, your freedom, and your digital security, this episode is a must-listen. Don’t miss the essential tools and strategies every prepper should have in place to stay anonymous, secure, and one step ahead of the next cyber threat.

Keywords: data breaches 2025, cybersecurity, online privacy, hacking updates, PrepperNet, Prepping Academy Podcast, digital security, identity protection, personal data leaks, Forrest Garvin.

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Today, Grid Down Comms Up takes the microphone again for another great episode of the Prepping Academy. We do a short after-action report on the Eastern Tennessee Homestead Alliance festival, revisit a few items as we approach the one-year anniversary of the historic disaster caused by Hurricane Helene, and talk about radio and communications interference. We look at the common types of manmade interference and what you can do to ensure you aren't the cause, because making lots of people look for you isn't very gray man. We also discuss what you may want to consider adding to your plans if you experience intentional interference during an emergency. We also listened to an example of interference during my time in Eastern Tennessee with GSM and a much more entertaining example of some amateur operators trolling someone who is causing intentional interference to keep him talking until they locate him. I'll see you on the next episode. 

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Prepping Academy Podcast: PrepperNet Leaders Needed, PrepperFinds.Com Launch, Preparedness Month, Hurricane Readiness, and Building a Nonprofit for Disaster Relief 

Support PrepperNet’s mission to become a nonprofit by sending your donation via PayPal to [email protected].

You may also contact us by email, and we will provide you with a Stripe invoice for your convenience.   Email us at [email protected]

In this episode of the Prepping Academy Podcast, host Forrest Garvin shares important updates and opportunities for the prepping community as we move deeper into preparedness month and hurricane season.

We begin with a call for action: PrepperNet is seeking new local and city leaders to step up and guide area groups. These leaders help build training, communication networks, and community support, strengthening local preparedness nationwide.

Forrest also announces the launch of PrepperFinds.com, a new website providing daily emails with prepping deals, gear, and resources to help preppers stay stocked and ready. Listeners are encouraged to sign up and take advantage of these exclusive finds.

Since September is National Preparedness Month, Forrest emphasizes the importance of hurricane readiness. With storms forming and disaster risks increasing, now is the time to review your emergency kits, food storage, and evacuation plans.

The episode also highlights Forrest’s growing free prepping webinars, which continue to attract students interested in survival skills, self-reliance, and emergency planning. These online trainings are an easy way to learn new strategies and connect with like-minded individuals.

Looking ahead, Forrest shares his vision for creating a PrepperNet nonprofit organization. By transitioning to nonprofit status, PrepperNet can take direct donations and channel funds more effectively to disaster relief efforts. During Hurricane Helena, PrepperNet raised over $25,000 for victims, and Forrest hopes future fundraising will have an even greater impact.

This episode of the Prepping Academy Podcast blends community updates, practical preparedness tips, and a vision for long-term survival support. Join PrepperNet, sign up at PrepperFinds.com, and take steps now to strengthen your readiness and your community.

Support PrepperNet’s mission to become a nonprofit by sending your donation via PayPal to [email protected].

You may also contact us by email, and we will provide you with a Stripe invoice for your convenience.   Email us at [email protected]

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The Prepping Academy welcomes Forrest Garvin, founder of PrepperNet, Garvin Academy, and other entrepreneurial ventures that are countable. In today's episode, Forrest updates us on what he has been up to over the last year.  We also discuss the current happenings in  PrepperNet, where PrepperNet is heading in the future, and a general update on the status of Prepping 2025. 

Grid Down Comms Up http://www.youtube.com/@griddowncommsup

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Grid Down Comms Up dives into the top ten prepping items for a natural disaster. According to NOAA, there were twenty-seven major natural disasters last year. They did 182 billion dollars in damage and caused 568 deaths. Of all the emergencies we prepare for, we are most likely to be caught up in a large-scale natural disaster. Will you be ready if one strikes your area? In today's episode, we look at the last five items on our list: defense, fuel, electricity, mental health, and building materials. We also toss in a bonus item for number eleven. Heavy equipment, while far from essential, is a game-changer if you can access it. If you are lucky enough to own some, keep them in working order and be able to help out. 

Remember, mental condition is a huge part of survival. If you or someone you know is at risk or experiencing a mental health crisis, reach out for help at the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline dial 988 or visit https://988lifeline.org/. 

Stay ready and prep on. 
Patrick"

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Grid Down Comms Up dives into the top ten prepping items for a natural disaster. According to NOAA, there were twenty-seven major natural disasters last year. They did 182 billion dollars in damage and caused 568 deaths. Of all the emergencies we prepare for, we are most likely to be caught up in a large-scale natural disaster. Will you be ready if one strikes your area? In today's episode, we look at the first five items on our list. potable water, food, communications, medical, and chainsaws to meet our potential immediate needs and self-rescue when help isn't coming. In our next part two, we will continue with the final five items essential for natural disaster preparedness. 

Stay ready and prep on. 

Patrick"

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On this week's episode of The Prepping Academy, we welcome a special guest, John Jacob Schmidt, founder of AmRRON, for a discussion on the history of AmRRON and what the future holds. We also discuss his new project, AmRRON Reloaded, and efforts to grow the ranks of individuals capable of effectively communicating in any emergency situation. Remember, the annual AmRRON national grid down communications exercise takes place later in July. It is your opportunity to test your skills and see what information you can receive during the exercise. Remember, if you do not have communications when the balloon goes up, you are just another refugee staring at your dead cell phone, wondering what just happened. 

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