Q5 Worldwide Ham Radio

ARRL DX CW Recap & SSB Prep: Contest Crew Breaks It Down!

Chris Hurlbut, KL9A, is back with the Contest Crew for a deep dive into the highs, the lows, and the unexpected moments of the ARRL DX CW contest. From multi-multi strategy at K3LR to single-op lessons learned at K5ZD, the conversation is packed with insights on propagation, pileup management, and the all-important battle for every last QSO.
Randy Thompson, K5ZD, reflects on his final ARRL DX CW contest from his Massachusetts station before relocating, pushing for WRTC qualifying points and navigating the challenges of SO2R operation. Meanwhile, KL9A and K1DG worked 15 meters for the K3LR team with precision, highlighting the importance of timing, positioning, and the art of the in-band strategy. And over at ZF1A, N6MJ and W9KKN put on a show in the multi-single category, proving once again why top operators make all the difference.
But the conversation isn’t just about looking back—it’s about what’s next. The ARRL DX SSB contest is right around the corner, and the crew shares key takeaways for phone ops: the fight for run frequencies, the intensity of 40 meters, and why it pays to keep your elbows out when the competition heats up. Plus, with the Dayton Hamvention and Contest University on the horizon, KL9A is set to take the stage at the Contest Dinner—tickets are going fast.
Whether you're gearing up for the next big contest or just love a good behind-the-scenes look at high-level radio sport, this episode delivers. Join the conversation, drop a comment with your own contest experiences, and don’t forget to subscribe to W1DED Worldwide Ham Radio!

ARRL DX CW: Insider Tips from the Contest Crew

The Contest Crew is back—just in time for one of the biggest CW events of the year. Randy Thompson K5ZD, Dan Craig N6MJ, and Bill Fehring W9KKN sit down with W1DED to break down the ARRL DX CW Contest, offering insights that only seasoned contesters can provide.
From high-rate strategy to the quirks of cut numbers, from self-spotting debates to multi-single tactics at ZF1A, this is an inside look at how the best prepare, adapt, and compete. The crew shares stories, hard-earned wisdom, and a few laughs along the way—all while keeping an eye on the fierce competition that makes this contest a favorite.
Want to know how to maximize multipliers, master the pileups, and find your edge? This is your playbook.
Drop your contest plans in the comments and subscribe to W1DED Worldwide Ham Radio for more top-tier contesting content!

Winter Field Day Like You’ve NEVER Seen It—With a Military Twist!

David Stickelman KF6KAT and Tammy Stickelman are bringing ham radio back to the field—literally. Their portable setup is more than just a radio operation; it’s an event. Operating out of restored military vehicles, including an M35, an M37, and even a vintage M1950 Arctic tent, David and Tammy have turned their passion for emergency communications and camping into a full-scale mobile ham radio operation. Whether it's Winter Field Day or a Parks on the Air activation, their retrofitted rigs and family-oriented approach draw plenty of attention—including from curious park rangers and intrigued fellow campers. David, a former Army signal officer, and his wife Tammy, have blended ham radio, military history, and outdoor adventure into something entirely unique. Their expeditions aren’t just about making contacts—they're about community. Friends, family, and even their horses tag along, turning their camping trips into full-scale events that combine vintage military gear with modern ham radio technology. From restoring classic military trucks to integrating radio teletype machines into their setup, the Stickelmans embody the hands-on, pioneering spirit of amateur radio. Their enthusiasm for the hobby is contagious, proving that ham radio isn’t just about gear—it’s about the experience, the connections, and the stories. Catch the full conversation and see what it takes to bring a mobile military ham shack to life. Join the discussion and subscribe to W1DED Worldwide Ham Radio for more great stories from the world of amateur radio!

Inside the Dayton Hamvention: Why It’s the Heart of Amateur Radio

Dayton Hamvention, the world’s largest amateur radio event, returns to Xenia, Ohio, on May 16-18 for a celebration of ham radio unlike any other. It’s a gathering that highlights the very best of this incredible hobby, and in this interview, Michael Kalter W8CI reminds us why it matters so much. Before diving into the details of Hamvention itself, Michael shares his deeply personal connection to amateur radio—a journey that began with a childhood fascination for radios and grew into a lifelong passion. Through stories of building kits, fostering friendships, and embracing leadership roles, Michael paints a vivid picture of the unique spirit and camaraderie that define the ham radio community. His path is as diverse as it is inspiring, with stops in business, the Peace Corps, firefighting, elected office, and decades of ham radio leadership, including his pivotal role in shaping Hamvention into the world-class event it is today. Michael’s reflections serve as a heartfelt reminder of why this hobby continues to capture the imagination of operators young and old. From its technical challenges to its ability to connect people across borders and cultures, amateur radio is more than a pastime—it’s a way of life. And nowhere is that more evident than at Hamvention. 

Georgia State Parks on the Air: Claude AC4SH

Claude Ray AC4SH is a Parks on the Air legend. Having activated all 224 Georgia parks and logged over 50,000 QSOs, Claude’s expertise in portable ham radio is unmatched. Now, he’s channeling his passion and knowledge into the upcoming Georgia State Parks on the Air event, set for April 1-2, 2025.
In this conversation, Claude opens up about his journey from earning his extra class license to becoming one of POTA’s most dedicated activators. He shares the secrets behind his efficient setups, favorite gear, and strategies for maximizing activations. Claude also takes us behind the scenes of the Georgia State Parks on the Air program, from its origins to how it’s grown into a signature event for Parks on the Air enthusiasts.
With 52 state parks on this year’s roster and activators and hunters gearing up for a weekend of fun, the event promises to bring the spirit of ham radio alive. Whether you’re a seasoned operator or a curious newcomer, this is your chance to connect, explore, and engage with the Parks on the Air community.
Join the conversation and subscribe to W1DED Worldwide Ham Radio for more inspiring stories, tips, and everything you need to know about the world of ham radio. See you on the air!

High-Risk DXpedition to Burkina Faso: XT2MD with James KB2FMH

James Gallo, KB2FMH, is no stranger to adventure, but his recent DXpedition to Burkina Faso might just take the cake. A retired New York City plumber with a flair for storytelling and a passion for ham radio, James recounts an expedition marked by danger, diplomacy, and a healthy dose of camaraderie. From navigating military barricades and armed escorts to having their equipment confiscated by local authorities, James and his team faced challenges most operators would only read about.
The United States government warned against travel to Burkina Faso—a country classified as a Level 4 red zone due to threats of terrorism and violence. But for James and his international team, the lure of activating XT2MD and making history outweighed the risks. What they didn’t expect? A visit from plainclothes special police and a three-day shutdown of their operations.
Enter the President’s uncle, clad in royal garb, whose unexpected intervention turned the tide. With his influence and connections, James and his team retrieved their confiscated gear and resumed their work, ultimately logging an impressive 76,000 QSOs.
This is a story of perseverance, shared humanity, and the power of amateur radio to bridge even the most unlikely divides. Join us as James brings his trademark humor and vivid storytelling to an unforgettable adventure.
Don’t miss this incredible conversation—and be sure to subscribe to W1DED Worldwide Ham Radio for more stories from the world of ham radio!

Break Through Pile-Ups Like a Pro!: Contesting Secrets from the Crew

Randy Thompson, K5ZD, is fresh off logging over 6,000 QSOs in the World Wide Award program and brings serious—and seriously helpful—advice for anyone looking to sharpen their contesting skills. Joined by Chris Hurlbut, KL9A, this episode of Contest Crew dives deep into how operators can break through pile-ups, improve their rate, and avoid common pitfalls.
Randy doesn’t hold back as he shares his observations from the front lines of massive pile-ups, offering tips like calling off-frequency, timing your calls strategically, and sending your call only once (seriously—just once!). His candid feedback, bordering on venting, gets a playful counterpoint from Chris, who offers a virtual hug to lighten the mood. Together, they keep the conversation engaging, blending sharp contesting insights with humor.
Chris brings his own seasoned perspective, recalling stories of operators like KR2Q who excel with minimal power, and adds tips for navigating two simultaneous pile-ups. From recognizing your call when it’s returned to setting up crisp, clear audio for phone operations, this episode is packed with practical advice for both new and experienced contesters.
By the end, Randy’s “therapy session” turns into an insightful guide for anyone looking to up their game in ham radio contests.
Join the conversation, and don’t forget to subscribe to W1DED Worldwide Ham Radio for more episodes like this!

Emmy-Winning Inventor to Deep Space Explorer: Bill WT0DX's Ham Radio Odyssey

Bill Thomas WT0DX is a pioneer in digital communication technologies and a force in ham radio with a remarkable career spanning over 40 years. A prolific inventor with over 150 patents to his name and an Emmy Award for contributions to television, Bill's professional legacy includes groundbreaking work in electronic program guides, digital television, and audience research systems. He’s been a leader at major institutions like Zenith, Time Warner Cable, Nielsen Media Research, and TiVo. But his contributions extend far beyond the corporate world, making him a key figure in radio science and amateur radio communities.
A Purdue University graduate with an MSEE degree, Bill’s technical brilliance took him to the forefront of innovation, but his heart remains in ham radio and scientific exploration. As a member of the Deep Space Exploration Society (DSES), he’s helping push the boundaries of what’s possible in radio astronomy and EME (Earth-Moon-Earth) communication.
The DSES, a group of radio astronomers and ham radio enthusiasts, operates a unique 60-foot dish in Haswell, Colorado, one of the largest privately owned radio telescopes in the world. Thanks to a substantial upgrade supported by the Amateur Radio Digital Communications (ARDC) foundation, the facility now boasts a cutting-edge operations building, allowing expanded research and educational outreach.
Bill shares fascinating details about the dish’s rich history, from its origins as part of a Cold War-era microwave research program to its current use for pulsar detection, EME contacts, and meteor scatter studies. The DSES also collaborates with educational institutions, sharing real-time data and inspiring STEM interest among young students.
The conversation also highlights Bill’s involvement with ARDC, where he serves on the Grants Advisory Committee, shaping funding for initiatives that advance amateur radio and digital communications. ARDC’s mission is to promote experimentation, education, and innovation through strategic grants. Since 2019, they have funded over 250 projects, totaling $26 million and impacting 78,000 people worldwide.
Bill’s passion extends to fostering vibrant ham radio communities. He spotlights the Parker Radio Association in Colorado, renowned for its welcoming culture and dynamic activities, including mentoring programs and outdoor operating adventures. Their secret? A blend of technical learning and social connection—with plenty of good food along the way.
The interview delves into the challenges facing amateur radio today, from aging demographics to declining engagement. Bill and host Kevin Thomas W1DED discuss potential solutions, such as expanding mentorship models, creating leadership workshops for clubs, and harnessing ARDC’s resources to sustain long-term growth.
Bill’s reflections emphasize that amateur radio isn’t just about technical achievements—it’s about building connections and fostering curiosity. Whether through DSES’s deep space pursuits or local club outings, he remains committed to sharing the wonder of radio with future generations.
To dive deeper into this inspiring conversation, subscribe to W1DED Worldwide Ham Radio and join the community passionate about advancing the art and science of amateur radio.

Master Strategist: Fabio Schettino I4UFH’s Ham Radio Legacy

Fabio Schettino I4UFH is a fascinating figure in the world of ham radio contesting. With over 45 years in the hobby, Fabio has pushed boundaries—from masterminding massive multi-multi operations at IG9A in Lampedusa and setting records from Cape Verde’s D4C station. He’s not just a top-tier contester but also an innovator, creating log analysis software and SO2R switching devices that raised the bar for operators worldwide. In one of his boldest moves, Fabio spearheaded the campaign to convince the CQ Contest Committee that Lampedusa Island, part of Italy, should be considered part of Africa’s continental shelf—turning it into a coveted three-point multiplier. His persistence paid off, making Lampedusa a prime destination for Italian contesters and a key battleground in the pursuit of world records. In this conversation, Fabio takes us behind the scenes of some of ambitious contest efforts —complete with towering 24-meter antennas and gear hauled across islands and stories of camaraderie, rivalries, and technical wizardry. He shares how he helped define Italy's ham radio landscape, leading efforts like WRTC 2023 and mentoring the next generation of operators through Italy’s first dedicated contest school. Curious about how an SSB legend with a competitive streak approaches radiosport with just 100 watts at WRTC? Or why he believes SSB contesting demands sharper skills than CW? Fabio’s insights into the future of contesting—and his plans for 2025—are a must-watch. Catch the full story soon—subscribe to W1DED Worldwide Ham Radio so you don’t miss this exclusive interview with a true trailblazer. 🎙️🌍 #HamRadio #ContestLife #IG9A #Lampedusa #WRTC #WorldwideHamRadio

Small Pistols of Ham Radio Contesting: Stuart VE3RGO

Stuart Hayes, VE3RGO, is living proof that you don’t need a "big gun" station to thrive in the world of amateur radio contesting. As a "small pistol" operator with modest equipment, Stuart shares how resourcefulness, persistence, and club camaraderie can lead to big wins and rewarding experiences. Despite having a simple setup, Stuart’s commitment to learning and competing has earned him remarkable contesting achievements. A central theme of this conversation is Stuart's deep connection to the Kitchener-Waterloo Amateur Radio Club—a century-strong community that embraces all aspects of ham radio and fosters a supportive environment for operators at every level. Whether it’s running a virtual licensing course or encouraging members to dive into state QSO parties, the club’s leadership excels at turning newcomers into lifelong enthusiasts. Stuart’s journey, from QRP beginnings to national contest wins, illustrates how participation and a willingness to try can make contesting a fun and attainable goal. His story also highlights how activities like Parks on the Air (POTA) provide valuable practice for handling pileups and improving operating skills. Join the conversation and let us know about your contesting experiences! And don’t forget to subscribe to W1DED Worldwide Ham Radio for more inspiring stories from the amateur radio community.