We have a very special treat for you! In this exclusive interview recorded during EAA AirVenture, we sit down with amateur radio industry veteran Ray Novak, N9JA. Surrounded by warbirds, fighter jets, and the constant buzz of the Oshkosh Air Show, Ray offers a fascinating glimpse into his world at the intersection of aviation and amateur radio.

Broadcasting from his impressive mobile setup – complete with a hex beam antenna towering 35 feet above his motorcoach – Ray shares incredible personal stories and experiences that bridge decades of radio evolution. From his journey as a Mississippi farm boy who avoided computer programming because it meant "wearing a suit and tie" to becoming a key figure in amateur radio manufacturing, Ray's path mirrors the transformation of radio technology itself.

Episode Highlights:

• Ray's transition from MFJ (nearly 300 hamfests!) to major radio manufacturer
• Behind-the-scenes stories from 30+ years in the amateur radio industry
• Technical insights on radio development and open protocols
• IC-7760 development challenges during COVID disruptions
• Remote operation capabilities that let you control your home station worldwide
• Getting young people excited about amateur radio at special event station W9W
• Tales from technical support (hint: upcoming episode!)

Unique Audio Experience: As young visitors stop by the Warbirds of America special event station W9W, you'll witness firsthand how these operations kindle technical curiosity in the next generation. Between thunderous F-35 flybys and impromptu visits from fellow aviation enthusiasts, this conversation captures the spirit of amateur radio at its best – technically sophisticated yet thoroughly human, preserving tradition while embracing innovation.

Hosted by: James Mills K8JKU, Jim Davis N8JRD, and Rory Locke W8KNX

What's your journey in amateur radio? Have you experienced the thrill of operating from a special event station or explored remote operation? Visit everydayham.com for show notes and links, and follow us on Instagram @everydayhampodcast. Share your stories – we'd love to hear how radio has connected your world!

Note: You'll hear authentic airshow sounds and may notice occasional audio delays due to the remote connection from Oshkosh. Nothing's perfect, but that authentic atmosphere adds to the experience!

Short show intro audio clip

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The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist.

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everydayhampodcast/

What happens when the "Super Bowl of Amateur Radio" meets poor band conditions? The Everyday Ham team breaks down their 2025 ARRL Field Day experience with honest reflection about what worked, what didn't, and why it still matters.

Despite challenging propagation that made 20 meters nearly useless, our South Lyon Area Amateur Radio Club (SLAARC) field operation managed 680 QSOs with 16 operators including several first-timers making their debut HF contacts. The camaraderie and mentorship moments proved more memorable than any score could reflect.

Our equipment choices sparked fascinating discussion about the evolution of field operations. We deployed simple yet effective antennas including Aerial-51 off-center fed dipoles on SOTA-beam masts and a remarkable military surplus 40-meter vertical built from scrap aluminum by silent key Larry K8UT that outperformed expectations. All stations used FTDX10 radios - a choice we explain after detailing our final journey away from problematic FTX1 models and praising Ham Radio Outlet's exceptional customer service.

The most thought-provoking segment explores whether POTA is replacing traditional Field Day. With outdoor portable operation now happening year-round, we question how ARRL might evolve Field Day to maintain relevance, particularly addressing the controversial 1D station rules. An 82-year-old ham's perspective that "POTA is the future of ham radio" launches us into examining the balance between contesting, emergency practice, and social connection.

Join us for laughs about Jim's abandoned attempt to backpack a DX10 to Mackinac Island, heated debates about "please copy" Field Day etiquette, and news about our exciting guest for Episode 8 - someone from one of the "big three" manufacturers you won't want to miss!

Subscribe: https://www.everydayham.com

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Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist.

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everydayhampodcast/

The long-awaited Yaesu FTX1 Optima has finally arrived in ham shacks across America, but does it live up to the hype? We've spent days testing Yaesu's latest flagship and share our unfiltered experiences that left us reaching for our trusty FT-891s instead. From PTT issues that drop mid-transmission to strange menu bugs and disappointing receiver performance compared to the FT-710 and FT-DX10, we dive deep into what went wrong and whether firmware updates can save this premium-priced radio.

In a surprising market development, we explore the news that SteppIR has announced their exit from the amateur radio consumer market by August 2025. Their CEO cites an aging ham population moving to stealth antennas as HOAs restrict traditional towers. Is this the beginning of a larger trend in ham radio manufacturing following MFJ's recent exit, or simply market evolution as the hobby changes?

Summer is here, and that means Field Day is just around the corner! Whether you're a newly licensed ham nervous about your first HF contact or an experienced operator looking to test emergency preparedness, we share why Field Day (June 28-29) offers something for everyone. From operating tips to overcoming microphone fright, discover why this annual event remains amateur radio's most beloved gathering.

The amateur radio landscape continues to shift, with new technologies promising innovation while established companies retreat from changing markets. Through it all, what matters most is finding the gear and activities that spark joy in your radio journey. What's working for you this summer?

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist.

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everydayhampodcast/