The Question I Ask Every Year (And Why It Matters)

 Thank you for another amazing year. The channel and newsletter are nothing without each of you.

As we prepare to close out the year, I usually take some time to ask myself a simple question: What do I really want to accomplish in the year ahead? Not a New Year’s resolution that fades by Valentine’s Day, but meaningful goals—especially when it comes to radio.

Maybe you’re a technician who wants to upgrade to General. Maybe this is the year you finally learn Morse code, or dive deeper into a specific digital mode. I’ve written down goals like these for many years now, and for me, putting them on paper is key. Another personal hack that’s helped immensely is carving out dedicated time each week. Maybe it’s an hour a week, or maybe it’s an hour a day. Whatever you commit to, the important part is having the discipline to stick with it. And if you slip? Don’t get discouraged. Just backtrack and pick up where you left off. I didn’t learn Linux overnight—it took years to get here, and I still have a long way to go.

This year, my focus is on finding more ways to give back. Part of that will happen through YouTube, but an equally important part will be through my local club. I want to help a few members who have a strong interest in both Linux and digital modes, and I plan to participate in as many public service events as possible. Each of those events is an opportunity to push the limits of what we already do and discover more efficient ways to use the radio spectrum.

I’ve said this before, and I’ll reiterate it again: if you’re not happy with your local club, be the change you want to see. Volunteer to give a presentation on a topic you’re passionate about. Offer to teach a Winlink class if that’s your thing. Clubs are only as active as the members make them.

Here’s to a fantastic 2026.