On this week's episode of the Great Loop Radio podcast, we discuss some of the basic knowledge and skills needed to safely cruise the Great Loop.  If you've been watching our forum and social media discussions, you know that there are varying opinions on how much preparation should be done.  Some say "just do it" while others prefer extensive preparation, knowledge & skills.  We invited Gold Looper Dave Fuller to join us for this discussion.  Dave serves as the Deputy Director of Education for the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary at the national level.  His group is responsible for producing all public education content for the Auxiliary, so he is an ideal person to share his thoughts on this topic. This week's discussion is part 1.  The rest of the discussion will air on December 13th.