Have you ever felt that traditional ham radio clubs were missing something crucial – the actual fun of getting on the air? You're not alone. In this episode, we're joined by the founding members of the Hillbilly Hams Amateur Radio Club, a group that decided to create their own radio community when existing clubs felt too formal and business-oriented.

Shannon (K1LY), Sean (AA4AT), Amy (W4MAE),  Luis (KU5GZ ), and Doug (KE4MM) share their journey of forming a club that prioritizes enjoyment, active participation, and genuine camaraderie. With their signature overalls as unofficial uniforms and a lighthearted approach to operations, they demonstrate how a small group of friends can create something special in the amateur radio world without getting bogged down in bureaucracy.

The conversation reveals practical insights about club formation and heartwarming stories of radio adventures. From their first group activation to winter field day operations, the Hillbillies describe how they've created memorable radio experiences together. Their enthusiasm for Parks On The Air (POTA) shines through as they share stories of passing microphones around in a vehicle, encountering wildlife during activations, and celebrating each rare DX contact.

Hearing multiple perspectives on club culture makes this discussion particularly valuable, including from two ham radio couples who have made the hobby a shared passion. Their practical advice for those considering forming their club emphasizes starting small, defining your purpose clearly, and maintaining good relationships with other radio organizations while charting your path.

Whether you're considering starting your club, breathing new life into an existing one, or simply looking for inspiration to make your ham radio experience more enjoyable, the Hillbilly Hams offer a refreshing approach that reminds us why we fell in love with this hobby in the first place. Tune in to rediscover the joy of ham radio, hillbilly style!

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