Marion Mason, W1GRL, and Stan Mason, W1BOY, are two ham radio enthusiasts who turned their shared hobby into a lifelong passion and connection. Married for years, they each came to ham radio in unique ways, Stan’s love for the hobby was sparked by a high school experience, while Marion pursued her license to impress Stan while they were both in graduate school at Ohio State University. However, it wasn’t until 2023 that Marion truly dove into ham radio with enthusiasm, quickly gaining thousands of contacts and embracing CW as part of her journey. Together, they talk about their personal ham radio experiences—whether setting up their home station in Bar Harbor, Maine, or activating parks through the Parks on the Air program. The Masons also share their views on contesting, community, and the importance of encouraging women in the ham radio world. Marion’s perspective as a competitive yet thoughtful operator, and Stan’s technical tinkering and long-standing love for the hobby, provide an inspiring look into how ham radio can enrich not only individual lives but also relationships. Their excitement for the hobby is palpable, whether through Marion’s recent explosion of activity or Stan’s passion for learning and sharing. Their story is a reminder of the joy that comes from connecting with others through ham radio. Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button. 73!
