Practical Prepping Podcast

40 Episodes
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By: Mark & Krista Lawley

Practical Prepping Podcast Real solutions for real emergencies—no apocalypse required.The Practical Prepping Podcast cuts through the noise of extreme doomsday scenarios to focus on what actually matters: simple, actionable steps that help everyday people safeguard their families and lifestyles. Why Listen?Knowledge Over Gear: "The more you know, the less you have to carry." We emphasize skills that lighten your load because the right know-how beats an overloaded bug-out bag every time.Real Threats, Real Solutions: From power outages to wildfires, snowstorms to supply shortages, we tackle the emergencies you're most likely to face.Family-Friendly Content: Our podcast main...

“Beyond the Headlines: The Real Work of FEMA”
#529
Last Monday at 5:00 AM

You’ve heard the frustration. You’ve seen the memes. Maybe you’ve even wondered — what does FEMA actually do?
In this episode of we look beneath the public perception to uncover FEMA’s real purpose, its response process, and how that understanding can make you more personally prepared for disaster.

We’ll pull back the curtain on how FEMA coordinates federal disaster relief, supports state and local governments, and what practical steps you can take to make sure your family doesn’t just survive a crisis, but recovers faster because of the groundwork you’ve laid. 

Ful...


Big Brother Is Listening, Watching, And Tracking Us, And He Is Being Nosey
#528
10/06/2025

It's not a conspiracy, and we bring proof of that today from our own phones and computers.

We are talking about Government Over Reach, and you had better believe that they are listening, and watching, and still being nosey.

Expanded Show Notes

If you find value in the podcast, would you be willing to give back a little?

You can do that one of several ways.
     Go to our support page
               OR
     By starting your Amazon shopping from our website? ---> ...


Every Day Carry And A Complete EDC Dump
#527
09/29/2025

 What's in YOUR bag? What needs to be? What does NOT need to be in your bag? Inquiring minds want to know and that's what we are going to cover today - the Every Day Carry bag.

Please share this podcast with your friends, family, and on social media accounts. Here's the link:  https://www.practicalprepping.info/podcast

If you would like to have the expanded notes on today's episode, along with the links mentioned in the episode, you'll find them at practicalprepping.info/444

Expanded Show Notes

If you find va...


Ten things that a prepper should not do
#526
09/22/2025

Are you the reason your prepping efforts might fail?

 Could your own actions, or inactions, be setting you up for disaster when a crisis hits? What if, despite all your efforts, you're unknowingly ensuring your survival plan collapses when it matters most?

Mentioned In This Episode:

Muirhead Canning (Discount code PREP10)

Proof Minimalist Wallets (Discount code PREPPER) 

1791gunleather.com (Discount code: PREP15)  

Expanded Show Notes

Download The Episode Here

If you find value in the podcast, would you be wil...


An announcement, and How To Practice "Minimalist Prepping" In Our Get Home Bags
#525
09/15/2025

We've all seen the memes of the 400 lb dude carrying a 400 lb bug out bag
Everything he could ever want in there. That's not at all practical.
Actually, many of us probably carry more in our bags than we need, and that adds weight, especially in a get home bag we might have to wear for an extended period of time.
On today's episode we are going to discuss How To Practice "Minimalist Prepping" In Our Get Home Bags, and these principles can be practiced in our prepping at home as well.

If you...


Water, Calories, Bugging In, and Ditching Gear Dependence
#524
09/08/2025

"In today’s episode we are discussing How to make safe drinking water, calculate post-disaster calorie needs, master the art of bugging in, and reduce your dependence on survival gear."

Mentioned In This Episode:

Muirhead Canning (Discount code PREP10)

Proof Minimalist Wallets (Discount code PREPPER) 

1791gunleather.com (Discount code: PREP15)  

Getting Started In Prepping and Building A 72-Hour Emergency Kit Workshop

Expanded Show Notes

Download The Episode Here

If you find value in the podcast, would you be willing to g...


Low-Tech Prepping, Evaluating Your Core Preps, and Building Reliable Habits
#523
09/01/2025

When it comes to preparedness, it’s easy to get distracted by shiny gear and high-tech gadgets. But here’s the truth: batteries die, circuits fry, and the grid can go dark without warning. Real preparedness is about resilience. In this episode, we’ll cover three practical areas of prepping you can strengthen today.

Evaluating your core preps for bugging in, Leaning on low-tech solutions when the gadgets fail, and Building situational awareness - the invisible skill that keeps you ahead of danger. 

Mentioned In This Episode:

Muirhead Canning (Discount code PREP10...


Common, Everyday Items For Emergency Preparedness Uses
#522
08/25/2025

We've long touted being the "Practical Prepping" folks, and today's show is as practical as it gets; using common, everyday items for emergency preparedness. How many of these ordinary products are in YOUR house?

Mentioned In This Episode:

Muirhead Canning (Discount code PREP10)

Expanded Show Notes

Download The Episode Here


If you find value in the podcast, would you be willing to give back a little?

You can do that one of several ways.
     Go to our support pag...


"Why We Prep... Self-Reliance, Confidence, and Peace of Mind"
#521
08/11/2025

Four reasons why we prep that you can share with friends and family to encourage them to prep.

We will be offering a live Zoom workshop on September 4, 2025, at 7:00 pm CDT.  We'll be teaching "Getting started in prepping and building your 72 hour emergency kit" and we'll be having a question and answer session afterward.

The workshop will be only $7, and registration will open on Friday, August 14th.  Go to practicalprepping.info/workshop to add your name to the waiting list to be notified when registration opens.

Mentioned In This Episode:...


EDC Essentials for Real-World Emergencies
#520
08/04/2025

Have you ever had the thought that What’s In Your Pockets Could Save Your Day or Your Life?

Do you wonder why some folks seem to have the answer to every crisis—whether it's a power outage, a busted zipper, or something more serious? It’s probably not luck—it’s their EDC, their everyday carry setup. Today, we’ll dig into the EDC items preppers actually rely on, from the basics they carry everywhere, to the small upgrades that can make a huge difference when things go sideways. Don’t worry, you won’t need cargo pants with...


Cooking Without Power & Dollar Store Prepping Gems
#519
07/28/2025

What would you do if the lights went out for weeks—would you settle for cold beans and crackers, or would you find a way to keep your family well-fed? In this episode, look at practical, creative solutions for cooking during power outages. Plus, we share our top tips for prepping on a budget with unexpected finds from the Dollar Store.

Ready to turn “what if” into “we’ve got this”?


Mentioned In This Episode:

Muirhead Canning (Discount code PREP10)

1791gunleather.com (Discount code: PREP15)

Practical...


Involving Kids In Prepping
#518
07/21/2025

Prepping isn’t just about beans, batteries, and bottled water, it’s about raising resilient kids who know what to do when life gets bumpy. 

In this episode, we’ll talk about making family prepping plans that actually include our kids, from toddlers to teens. 

We’ll cover how to keep the conversation positive, how to give everyone a role (even if it’s “official snack taster” or “water bottle checker” or "flashlight holder"), and why prepping together can be one of the best gifts you give your children. 

Ready to turn “what if” into “we’ve got thi...


"Debunking the Prepper 'Gotta Do' Myths"
#517
07/14/2025

Common prepper advice often emphasizes extreme scenarios while neglecting probable emergencies. This episode dismantles 10 pervasive "gotta do" myths in the preparedness community and offers practical alternatives focused on real-world resilience rather than apocalyptic fantasy. 

Mentioned In This Episode:

Muirhead Canning (Discount code PREP)

Practical Prepping Courses

Weekly Newsletter & Free PDF

Expanded Show Notes

Download The Episode Here

If you find value in the podcast, would you be willing to give back a little?

You can do that one of s...


When does being prepared become a problem? And a Listener Question about getting started.
07/07/2025

Last week we drew the line between smart prepping and hoarding disorder. 

But what happens when prepping itself crosses a line you didn't even know existed?

Today, we're tackling the question nobody wants to ask: When does being prepared become a problem?

We'll also answer a listener question and clear up some bad advice she heard about getting started with prepping.

Mentioned In This Episode:

Muirhead Canning (Discount code PREP)

1791 Gunleather.com (Use discount code PREP15)

Practical Prepping Courses

Weekly Newsletter & F...


Strategic Storage vs. Stuff Syndrome: The Real Difference Between Prepping and Hoarding
#515
06/30/2025

Remember the 2020 toilet paper apocalypse? Everyone blamed preppers for "hoarding," but here's the twist — we already had our supplies and weren't panic buying.

So what's the real difference between prepping and hoarding?

Today we're diving into why one saves your bacon and the other just creates chaos.

Mentioned In This Episode:

Muirhead Canning (Discount code PREP)

1791 Gunleather.com (Use discount code PREP15)

Practical Prepping Courses

Weekly Newsletter & Free PDF

Expanded Show Notes

Download The Episode Here

If...


Free and Cheap Date Nights, Plus Low-Cost Prepping Activities
#514
06/16/2025

We were asked, "What do you two do for free or cheap date nights?" and, "What are some no-cost or low-cost prepping activities?" So, in this episode, we’re sharing fun ways to have a budget-friendly date night, and 12 prepping activities that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re looking for affordable ways to spend time with loved ones or inexpensive ways to improve your preparedness, we’ve got you covered!

Mentioned In This Episode:

Muirhead Canning

1791 Gunleather.com (Use discount code PREP15)

Practical Prepping Courses

Weekly N...


"Survival Essentials: Terrorist Attack Response & Twelve Disasterous Prepper Fails"
#513
06/09/2025

In this episode, we examine the disturbing trend of increasingly frequent and aggressive terrorist attacks worldwide—from knife assaults to the recent Boulder incident involving Molotov cocktails and homemade flamethrowers. Learn practical steps to protect yourself and your loved ones, plus discover 12 common prepper mistakes you might be making without realizing it. 

Mentioned In This Episode:

Muirhead Canning

1791 Gunleather.com (Use discount code PREP15)

Practical Prepping Courses

Weekly Newsletter & Free PDF

Featured Items

Expanded Show Notes

Download The Episode Here

<...


"The Science of Hiding In Plain Sight: Making Your Valuables Invisible"
#512
06/02/2025

According to data from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and other crime statistics sources, Approximately 1 million residential burglaries are reported annually in the United States.

This averages out to about 2,740 burglaries per day nationwide.

Most burglaries last 8 to 10 minutes, with burglars looking for quick, easy-to-access valuables like cash, jewelry, firearms, and electronics.

 Today, we are going to learn ways to make our stuff harder for burglars to find, as well as keeping nosy visitors from knowing what we have, as we talk a...


"Escape the Flames And Avoid Travel Disasters: Home Fire Safety and Travel Preparedness"
#511
05/26/2025

"Imagine waking up in the middle of the night to the smell of smoke and the sound of alarms—would your family know what to do? Too many house fires happen where not everyone makes it out safely, often because they weren’t prepared.

Now, picture being stranded on the side of the road during a trip, miles from help, with no tools or plan to get moving again. During my time in law enforcement, I saw this happen far too often.

On today’s episode, we’re tackling both of these topics: how to prepare...


“Leaked FEMA Report Raises Concerns About Hurricane Readiness, But You Can Be Ready Even If They Aren’t"
#510
05/19/2025

The recent revelations from a leaked FEMA document raises concerns about the agency’s readiness for hurricane season. We discuss how you can prepare for hurricanes with practical tips and actionable steps. From understanding warning terms to building an emergency kit, we cover everything you need to know to stay safe and ready. 


Mentioned In This Episode:

1791 Gunleather.com (Use discount code PREP15)

Practical Prepping Courses

Weekly Newsletter & Free PDF

Featured Items

Expanded Show Notes

Download The Episode Here

<...


Practical Uses for Empty Medicine Bottles, Ten More Superfoods, And A Review Of The Springfield Hellcat RDP 9mm
#509
05/12/2025

Empty medicine bottles can be incredibly useful for preppers due to their durability, compact size, and waterproof properties, and most of us build a supply of them over time.  

You do keep the empties, don’t you?

 After this episode, you’ll know many ways you can use them, and with a little imagination, you’ll discover many more.

And then we're going to do a gear review a range report on a handgun. The Springfield Hellcat, RDP  9mm.  It's a MicroComp that is great for everyday carry and for having fun at the range...


"Practical Prepping vs. Doomsday Prepping: Finding the Middle Ground"
#508
05/05/2025

We dive deep into the world of prepping by comparing practical prepping and doomsday prepping. We define these approaches, highlight their differences, and explore how to find a balanced middle ground. 

Whether you're preparing for everyday disruptions or catastrophic events, this discussion will help you assess your needs, resources, and goals.


Mentioned In This Episode:

1791 Gunleather.com (Use discount code PREP15)

Practical Prepping Courses

Weekly Newsletter & Free PDF

Featured Items

Download The Episode Here

If you find v...


“Plinking, Packing & Prepping, The Hidden World of .22 Caliber Rounds”
#507
04/28/2025

Have you ever wondered why there are so many .22 caliber rounds, or did you think a 22 is a 22 is a 22.  Well, they're not. There are at least a dozen 22 caliber rounds available, all for different purposes, and we'll dig into that today.

Second, we are going to do a gear review on something that I have been carrying for a couple of months, and a new company we've found.

Third, and we get new listeners and new preppers all the time. Someone, in the survey, suggested that we cover the basics of prepping from time t...


Optimizing Your Bug-In Location
#506
04/21/2025

"While bug-out bags get all the glory, statistics show that in most emergency scenarios, you'll be sheltering in your residence, so We're talking about “Optimizing Your Bug-In Location” How can we make where we live better in case we have to bug in?

Mentioned In This Episode:

ProLine Digital Group

Practical Prepping Courses

Weekly Newsletter & Free PDF

ProOne Gravity Water Filter

Download The Episode Here

If you find value in the podcast, would you be willing to give back a li...


Getting Family On-Board With Prepping, Eight EDC Essentials, and Emergency Water Purification
#505
04/14/2025

Today, you’ll learn ways to get family members on board with practical preparedness. If your loved ones roll their eyes at your prepping discussions or think you're being paranoid, you're not alone. We provide real solutions to help you communicate the importance of being prepared without causing conflict.

We also cover two more essential topics: Eight Must-Have Items for Your EDC Bag: you’ll learn practical items that everyone should have on hand for daily emergencies. 

We also cover Making Contaminated Water Safe to Drink: You’ll learn simple...


"Fifteen Often Overlooked Prepping Essentials; Life-Saving First Aid; and Prepping Strategies for Urban Dwellers"
#504
04/07/2025

 In today’s information-packed episode, we explore three critical segments designed to enhance your preparedness skills and strategies. From overlooked prepping essentials to life-saving first aid techniques and urban-specific survival planning, this episode is filled with actionable advice to help you stay ready for any emergency. 


Mentioned in this episode:

Dental Care for Preppers – Episode # 501, with Dr. Mike Andreski

Practical Prepping Courses

LifeVac Portable Rescue Device

Featured Items

If you find value in the podcast, would you be willing to give back a litt...


"Prepping Under Pressure: Tornado Preps & Mental Resilience Hacks"
#503
03/31/2025

Cultivating a survival mindset is necessary for staying calm, focused, and resilient in emergencies. This mindset doesn’t develop overnight, but with consistent effort and practice, you can condition yourself to face challenges with confidence.

Today we are going to cover four segments. We have "Mental Preparedness for Preppers part 2".  We also  have segments on tornado season, avoiding scams, and a gear review.

Mentioned In This Episode:

Support Practical Prepping

Expanded Episode Notes w/ all links mentioned

Practical Prep...


Mental Preparedness for Preppers
#502
03/24/2025

Cultivating a survival mindset is necessary for staying calm, focused, and resilient in emergencies. This mindset doesn’t develop overnight, but with consistent effort and practice, you can condition yourself to face challenges with confidence.

Today we are going to cover not only Mental Preparedness for preppers, but we have segments on recognizing signs of danger when in public and another on first aid. Bonus! We also have a listener question to answer.

Mentioned In This Episode:

Support Practical Prepping

Expanded Episode Notes w/ all li...


Dental Care for Preppers
#501
03/17/2025

In this interview, we take a deep dive into dental care in the face of possible non-availability of the dentist.


Mentioned In This Episode:

Support Practical Prepping

Expanded Episode Notes w/ all links mentioned

Clove Oil

Clove Bud Essential Oil

If you find value in the podcast, would you be willing to give back a little?
You can do that one of several ways.

Go to...


A Milestone Episode: What Has Practical Prepping Podcast Done For You?
#500
03/10/2025

Today we celebrate 500 episodes by celebrating our listeners.


Mentioned In This Episode:

Support Practical Prepping

Expanded Episode Notes w/ all links mentioned

Live Well And Flourish Podcast

Ask Ralph Podcast

Battery Organizer



If you find value in the podcast, would you be willing to give back a little?
You can do that one of several ways.

Go to our support page
          OR
By st...


"The Perfect EDC Bag: Choosing Your Everyday Carry Items"
#499
02/17/2025

Everyone carries something with them every day. Most people carry keys, identification, phone, and cash/debit card at a minimum. But there are a number of other things that we, as practical preppers, should have with us for all those things that come up throughout the day. That is what we are talking about every day carry, or EDC.

Mentioned In This Episode:
Support Practical Prepping
Expanded Episode Notes w/ all links mentioned


magicmind.com/MARKANDKRISTA40 

First ten to use this link will receive 40% off your subscription


Lessons Learned At Disasters
#498
02/03/2025


Mentioned In This Episode:
Support Practical Prepping
Expanded Episode Notes


If you find value in the podcast, would you be willing to give back a little?
You can do that one of several ways.

Go to our support page
          OR
By starting your Amazon shopping from our website? --->
           
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Contact us:
Practical Prepping
Website: www.practicalprepping.info
Email at info@pract...


Epic Snow In The South: Are YOU Prepared To Be Snowed In?
#497
01/27/2025

Recently, parts of the country have experienced historical snowfalls in areas not accustomed to snow. We're talking about Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida.  What lessons can we learn to be better prepared for unexpected snowstorms.


Mentioned In This Episode:

Magic Mind 45% off offer for January
Support Practical Prepping
Expanded Episode Notes

Episode # 492, "The Cozy Chronicles: A Low-Tech Guide for Staying Warm During Winter Power Outages"

Episode # 490, "Ready Set Go: Building Your 72-Hour Emergency Kit"

Episode # 485, "When Cell Phones Fail: Reliable Alternatives for Disaster C...


Fourteen Often Forgotten Prepping Items: Essential Additions to Your Emergency Kit
#496
01/21/2025

Do you ever run across something and think, "I never thought of that. I need to add that to my prepping, or I need to add that to my get home bag? That's what we are going to talk about today. Fourteen often forgotten items for prepping.

Mentioned In This Episode:

Magic Mind 45% off offer for January

Support Practical Prepping

Expanded Episode Notes


If you find value in the podcast, would you be willing to give back a little?
You can do that...


"Whatever The Weather: Ways To Stay Informed About Your Weather"
#495
01/06/2025

Winter Storm Blair has been making its way to the Southern and Eastern United States after having barreled her way across the Midwest. We watch several different weather programs on our computers, tablets, and phones to gain information; what are the ways YOU find out what the weather is doing where YOU are? There's lots of options, and we'll talk about that on today's show.

Mentioned In This Episode:

Magic Mind 45% off offer

Accuweather

Wunderground

GR Level 3

Radarscope is available in your app store

National...


"How Do We Avoid The Prepper Burnout Trap And Find Our Balance? "
#494
12/30/2024

Did you experience the Christmas overload?
There's just so much to do, and so many places to be, and If we're not careful, we can become overwhelmed and burn out.
It's the same way with our preparedness. It can become overwhelming and cause us to burn out.
Today we are going to talk about "How Do We Avoid The Prepper Burnout Trap And Find Our Balance? "



Mentioned in this episode:
     
(Click the underlined link)

Magic Mind 45% off sale (January 2025 only)

Pra...


A look back, a look forward, and something special for Christmas.
#493
12/23/2024

We've been working on goals for 2025, and to do that we have to look back at 2024.
You can't know how to get where you want to go unless you know where you are.
Today we take a look back, a look forward, and something special for Christmas.
Presented commercial free.

Merry Christmas,
Mark & Krista


"The Cozy Chronicles: A Low-Tech Guide for Staying Warm During Winter Power Outages"
#492
12/16/2024

We covered building a vehicle bag to be prepared when out and about.

We talked about building a 72 hour kit for home.

Today, we are going to discuss ways we can keep our family warm when the power goes out in winter.


Mentioned in this episode:
     
(Click the underlined link)

Magic Mind 20% off

Practical Prepping Online Courses


"Risk Assessment Reality Check: Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them"
     
Click here to see episode notes


Risk Assessment Reality Check - Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
#491
12/09/2024

While many preppers invest thousands of dollars in tactical gear and supplies, they often miss the most statistically likely emergencies they'll face in their lifetime. 

Join us as we explore the common pitfalls of risk assessment and learn how to build a preparation strategy based on real-world probabilities rather than fear."


Mentioned in this episode:
     
(Click the underlined link)

Magic Mind 40% off sale (For the first 10 to use this code)

Practical Prepping Online Courses


"Risk Assessment Reality Check: Common Mist...


Ready Set Go: Building Your 72-Hour Emergency Kit
#490
12/02/2024

Last week we talked about being roadside ready by building a vehicle emergency kit. Today, we are going to talk about a kit for your home.

Ready dot gov recommends we be self sufficient for three days.
One govt official said, after a hurricane a few years ago, "The first 72 are on you."

In the early '60s, a Civil Defense program called, Grandma's Pantry asked everyone to be prepared for at least seven days.

Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee showed us that we may need a...