In this episode of Stakeholder Prepping, Chris and AC revisit the concept of dollar preps, exploring innovative and practical items that can be acquired for a dollar or less. They discuss various sponsorships and discounts available to listeners, share their personal experiences in sourcing budget-friendly prepping supplies, and introduce unique products like the emergency Tinder card. The conversation also delves into the utility of razor blades, the differences between nails and screws, and the versatile uses of ceramic tile samples for honing knives and as makeshift projectiles. In this engaging conversation, Chris and AC explore a variety of innovative and practical survival tools that can be acquired for a dollar or less. They discuss the versatility of items like tin foil, grommet eyes, dental floss, magnets, pencil sharpeners, and battery-powered LED lights, emphasizing their multiple uses in emergency situations. The discussion highlights the importance of being prepared and resourceful, encouraging listeners to think creatively about everyday items that can enhance their survival skills.

In this episode, Chris and AC explore the world of chicken farming, discussing everything from the legalities of raising chickens to the ethical considerations involved in animal husbandry. They delve into the various breeds of chickens, their health benefits, and the setup required for a successful chicken coop. The conversation also touches on the importance of managing rooster and hen ratios, innovative farming techniques, and the overall benefits of self-reliance through homegrown eggs. In this conversation, the hosts delve into the fascinating world of chickens and other fowl, discussing their behavior, care, and the nuances of raising them. They explore the benefits of free-ranging chickens, the importance of proper nutrition, and the role of roosters in a flock. The discussion also touches on the health issues chickens may face, the feeding habits of chickens, and the potential of raising ducks and quails as alternative poultry options. The conversation is rich with practical tips and insights for anyone interested in backyard farming and homesteading.

In this special guest episode, Chris and AC welcome Erich, an experienced blacksmith and knife maker, who shares his journey into the world of blacksmithing, the intricacies of knife making, and the importance of steel selection. Erich discusses the different types of knives, the science behind Damascus steel, and the various forging techniques he employs in his craft. The discussion highlights the blend of artistry and practicality in creating functional and beautiful knives. In this conversation, Erich Orris discusses the intricacies of knife making, comparing custom and production knives, the costs involved, and the unique requests he receives. He delves into the technical aspects of steel types, blade designs, and the importance of craftsmanship. The discussion also covers the art of sharpening knives, the differences between single and double bevel edges, and the woodworking skills involved in creating knife handles. Finally, he explains the process of stabilizing wood for knife handles and its implications. In this conversation, the hosts and Erich Orris delve into the intricacies of wood stabilization, forging techniques, and the science behind metal temperatures. They discuss the types of wood suitable for stabilization, the importance of safety in forging, and the nuances of color and temperature in metalwork. The conversation also covers how to build a forge from scratch, the evolution of blacksmithing practices, and the significance of choosing the right quenching medium for metalwork. Erich shares insights on modern blacksmithing tools and techniques, emphasizing the blend of science and art in the craft.

**PLEASE NOTE**

This episode was recorded on March 15, 2025 before news of the deadly tornadoes in Missouri and Arkansas was announced. We are not "disaster chasers", this recording time was set up in advance to align with the beginning of tornado season in the United States.

We wish a speedy recovery for the areas affected, and our condolences go out to the families that lost loved ones.

In this episode of Stakeholder Prepping, hosts Chris and AC delve into the dangerous weather phenomenon of tornadoes. They discuss the science behind tornado formation, the Enhanced Fujita (EF) scale used to classify tornadoes, and the meteorological conditions that lead to their occurrence. The conversation also covers the importance of preparedness, including the use of NOAA weather radios and understanding tornado warnings. Through engaging anecdotes and scientific insights, the hosts emphasize the need for awareness and readiness in the face of these natural disasters. In this conversation, Chris and AC discuss the patterns and indicators of tornadoes, emphasizing the importance of understanding barometric pressure changes and the visual cues of impending storms. They outline essential safety protocols for tornadoes, including the best shelter options and the significance of being prepared with a personal risk matrix. The discussion highlights the need for effective emergency planning and the reality that tornadoes can occur in unexpected places, urging listeners to take preparedness seriously.

In this episode of Stakeholder Prepping, Chris and AC discuss various types of shelters suitable for survival situations, focusing on practical and expedient options. They delve into the Army Survival Manual, emphasizing the importance of site selection and the principles of building effective shelters. The conversation covers different structures, including lean-tos, poncho tents, and bivy sacks, while also addressing the need for concealment and the use of existing structures in urban environments. The hosts share personal experiences and insights on how to stay warm, dry, and safe in emergency scenarios. In this conversation, the hosts delve into the world of camping gear, specifically focusing on high-quality tents and their features. They discuss various tent options, their price points, and the importance of durability and functionality for outdoor adventures. The conversation also touches on urban camping strategies, essential accessories for a comfortable camping experience, and the importance of building knowledge and skills for effective outdoor survival.

In this episode of Stakeholder Prepping, hosts Chris and AC dive into the world of firearms, focusing primarily on handguns. They discuss the importance of gun safety, the criteria for selecting handguns, and share their top recommendations. The conversation emphasizes the significance of understanding firearm laws, safety protocols, and the various factors that influence handgun choice, including stopping power, versatility, accuracy, and ease of use. The hosts also highlight the necessity of practical training and familiarization with firearms to ensure responsible ownership and effective use. In this conversation, Chris and AC delve into various aspects of firearms, focusing on maintenance, daily carry options, shooting techniques, and the versatility of different guns. They share personal experiences with their favorite firearms, discuss the importance of proper shooting stances, and highlight the adaptability of certain models like the Glock 19 and Smith & Wesson Governor. The discussion emphasizes the role of firearms in preparedness and self-defense, while also inviting listener feedback on the topic.

In this episode of Stakeholder Prepping, hosts Chris and AC engage in a Q&A session, addressing listener feedback and questions about survival strategies, community engagement, and essential tools for bushcrafting. They discuss the importance of actionable intelligence in prepping, share heartwarming reviews from listeners, and highlight the significance of community in survival scenarios. The episode also features insights into survival courses and the challenges of preparing for various environments, culminating in a discussion about the most valuable tools for bushcrafting. In this conversation, the hosts delve into various aspects of survival tools, injury prevention, and the motivations behind teaching survival skills. They discuss the importance of practical knowledge gained from both real-life experiences and fictional narratives, as well as the influences and role models that shape their understanding of preparedness. The episode concludes with an engaging interaction with the audience, hinting at future topics and episodes.

In this special guest episode of Stakeholder Prepping, hosts Chris and AC welcome expert Forrest to discuss the importance of vehicle preparedness for preppers. They explore essential skills, tools, and modifications that can enhance a vehicle's readiness for emergencies. The conversation covers the differences between bug out vehicles and daily drivers, the necessity of emergency kits, and practical tips for maintaining and improving vehicle capabilities. In this conversation, the hosts and guest discuss various aspects of vehicle preparedness, focusing on essential accessories, recovery gear, safety equipment, fuel storage, and maintenance tips. They emphasize the importance of being prepared for off-road situations, the necessity of carrying recovery boards and tow straps, and the significance of maintaining a half tank of gas. The discussion also touches on the implications of EMPs on vehicles and the best practices for ensuring vehicle reliability in emergencies.

In this theory episode of Stakeholder Prepping, Chris and AC delve into the sobering topic of airplane crashes, focusing on survivable incidents and how to minimize risks while traveling by air. They discuss air travel statistics, the importance of understanding survivability factors, and practical tips for preparing for flights. The conversation also touches on behavioral responses during crises and shares real-life experiences related to air travel safety. In this conversation, the host and guest delve into the intricacies of cockpit emergencies, the importance of declaring emergencies, and real-life experiences that highlight the procedures pilots follow during critical situations. They discuss the significance of situational awareness for passengers, survival strategies in aviation, and the necessity of checklists in the cockpit. The conversation culminates in a thought experiment where the guest navigates an emergency landing scenario, emphasizing the importance of preparation and awareness in air travel.

In this episode, Chris and AC discuss the critical yet often overlooked aspect of prepping: insurance. They emphasize the importance of understanding your insurance policy, the different types of coverage available, and how to ensure you are adequately protected against potential losses. The conversation covers various property insurance policies, the significance of knowing what your policy entails, and the differences between replacement cost and actual cash value. They also highlight the need for additional coverage for specialty items and the role of insurance agents in managing your policy effectively. In this conversation, Chris and AC delve into the intricacies of insurance coverage, focusing on various types of coverages such as loss of use, liability, and medical payments. They discuss the importance of understanding exclusions in policies, common mistakes made when filing claims, and the significance of knowing deductibles. The conversation emphasizes that insurance is a crucial tool for preparedness and should be regularly reviewed to ensure adequate coverage.