As others have stated, Ham radio is totally not private, but can be used by anyone with a proper license. Two Technician licensed hams can talk on either on 2M or 440 to each other on simplex frequencies (not using a repeater) for several miles with a handy talkie if the terrain is pretty much line of sight. With additional licenses, you can talk worldwide.
Anything you talk about can and most likely will be heard by others, and they can chime in if they desire. Protocol must be followed, identify with your call sign, clean language, etc. If abused, someone will likely give you a call and help with suggestions on how to act right. Many hams are very good at tracking a renegade station down quickly and if you intentionally persist in violating the rules, they will also help with getting your license and equip confiscated by the FCC. They take their hobby seriously and do not want it to turn into a CB like environment.
The technician test you and your friends will need to pass is mainly rules and regulations with some very basic electronic technical information. I would suggest you Google for some local ham radio clubs in your area and attend some of their meetings, I think you will find many hams that will be happy offer to help you with any questions you might have. If you have a problem finding any of these, PM me and I will try to help. WB5Y
Anything you talk about can and most likely will be heard by others, and they can chime in if they desire. Protocol must be followed, identify with your call sign, clean language, etc. If abused, someone will likely give you a call and help with suggestions on how to act right. Many hams are very good at tracking a renegade station down quickly and if you intentionally persist in violating the rules, they will also help with getting your license and equip confiscated by the FCC. They take their hobby seriously and do not want it to turn into a CB like environment.
The technician test you and your friends will need to pass is mainly rules and regulations with some very basic electronic technical information. I would suggest you Google for some local ham radio clubs in your area and attend some of their meetings, I think you will find many hams that will be happy offer to help you with any questions you might have. If you have a problem finding any of these, PM me and I will try to help. WB5Y