Maybe it's just my area, but I've been seeing more of gatekeeping and resistance to change holding the hobby back, with stories of grumpy old-timers, club snobbery, and unwelcoming attitudes on repeaters and forums. Had a new ham tell me yesterday they're thinking of giving up after getting lectured on our local 2m repeater for "not following proper protocol" when they were just trying to check in.

Are we really as welcoming as we think we are? Seeing stuff like this makes me wonder if we need to work harder on making the hobby more inclusive.

I've definitely seen this too. Some folks seem more interested in being the "radio police" than actually helping newcomers learn. We need to remember we were all beginners once and cut people some slack while they're learning the ropes.

Ugh yes! Got into an argument with someone last week who insisted I was "doing it wrong" when I was just trying to have a casual QSO. Sometimes I wonder why I even bother getting on the air anymore.

There's definitely a balance needed. Yes we should be helpful and encouraging, but some basic operating procedures do matter for interference and flow. Maybe the key is HOW we correct people - privately and constructively rather than publicly embarrassing them.