In this episode, Ethan Wayne shares how vanlife, his dog Finn, and a deep sense of purpose shape his travel lifestyle. He reflects on growing up on Western film sets, how his father's legacy inspired the John Wayne Cancer Foundation, and why RVing offers both freedom and connection. Ethan also discusses his shift from acting and stunt work to leading meaningful cancer research initiatives and how life on the road helps him stay grounded.
Episode Guest
Ethan Wayne is the president of John Wayne Enterprises and Director of John Wayne Cancer Foundation.
John Wayne Enterprises’ mission is to preserve and protect the name, image, and likeness of John Wayne by associating the John Wayne brand with quality and timeless products and experiences that embody the spirit of John Wayne and give back to the community.
The mission of the John Wayne Cancer Foundation is to lead the fight against cancer with courage, strength, and grit. John Wayne Cancer Foundation funds novel and innovative programs that improve cancer patients' outcomes and save lives through research, education, awareness, and support.
• John Wayne Website
• Ethan Wayne's Instagram
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
- GXV Hilt by Storyteller Overland
- We’re the Russos YouTube Channel
- Newsletter sign up
- Book 1: Take Risks
- Book 2: Tales From the Open Road
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https://weretherussos.com/ethan-wayne-vanlife-john-wayne-legacy/
In this episode, Andy Mullins from Wayfarer Vans, shares how simplicity, modular design, and intentional choices are redefining camper van life. He talks about his journey from tent camping to building a teardrop trailer, how those experiences shaped his passion for minimalist RVing, and Wayfarer Vans’ ethos of creating simple, high-quality, modular camper van conversions.
Episode Guest
Andy Mullins is Chief Storyteller at Wayfarer Vans, a direct-to-consumer company that builds simple, high quality, modular camper van conversions. He’s behind the voice and vision that’s driving not just a growing business, but a passionate community of road travelers and outdoor lovers. With a background in editorial and mission-driven marketing, Andy crafts content that connects, inspires, and drives real relationships between brand and audience.
• Wayfarer Vans YouTube
• Wayfarer Vans Instagram
• Wayfarer Vans Facebook
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
- How to Insure Your Wayfarer Vans
- Wayfarer Vans Fans Facebook Group
- Van Tour: Wilford by Wayfarer Vans
- What It's Like Traveling in a Wayfarer Vans
- We’re the Russos YouTube Channel
- Newsletter sign up
- Book 1: Take Risks
- Book 2: Tales From the Open Road
Book a 60 Minute Call with Joe
Are you buying your first RV or have questions about RVing? Let’s see if booking a coaching session with Joe is the right fit for you. Learn More
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Episode Website
https://weretherussos.com/wayfarer-vans-simple-modular-camper-vans/
In this episode, April and Ken Pishna of Living a Stout Life share their journey from a conventional life in Denver, Colorado to the freedom of full time RV living. They open up about the highs and lows of life on the road, the power of community, and how their passion for connection led them to create Camp Carpe Diem, an inclusive RV gathering for adults designed to bring like-minded travelers together.
Episode Guests
Ken and April Pishna from Living a Stout Life, a craft beer travel and adventure community project, teamed up with Debra and Barry Benton from The Virtual Campground, a community for travelers, to create Camp Carpe Diem (CCD). Both couples have been living, traveling, and working on the road for over six years and quickly realized that community was the best part of traveling. CCD is now in its 5th year and brings adult travelers of all ages together in beautiful places all across the country for a long weekend of fun and adventures. Find your playful side with them! Find your community!
• Camp Carpe Diem Instagram
• Living a Stout Life Website
• Living a Stout Life Instagram
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
- Camp Carpe Diem Website
- We’re the Russos YouTube Channel
- Newsletter sign up
- Book 1: Take Risks
- Book 2: Tales From the Open Road
Book a 60 Minute Call with Joe
Are you buying your first RV or have questions about RVing? Let’s see if booking a coaching session with Joe is the right fit for you. Learn More
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Episode Website
https://weretherussos.com/rv-gatherings-for-adults-camp-carpe-diem/
In this episode, Bob Gauthier (a.k.a. Sticker Bob) of Kokua Promotions shares his unique journey into solo RVing, which began as a spontaneous decision to tour coffee shops across the country. Over eight years later, he reflects on the joys and challenges of solo rv life and shares practical tips for navigating life and running a business on the road.
Episode Guest
Bob is a Paniolo Cowboy and Vanlifer when not on an island. His business is in the promo product space and Kokua means "Aloha in Action" and "To be In Service to Others". Bob enjoys riding horses, paddling canoes, workouting, biking/hiking and all things outdoors. His motto is "kindness always wins."
• Bob Gauthier's Instagram
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
- We’re the Russos YouTube Channel
- Newsletter sign up
- Book 1: Take Risks
- Book 2: Tales From the Open Road
Book a 60 Minute Call with Joe
Are you buying your first RV or have questions about RVing? Let’s see if booking a coaching session with Joe is the right fit for you. Learn More
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Episode Website
https://weretherussos.com/solo-rv-life-bob-gauthier-kokua-promotions/
In this episode, Ari and Jessi from Trekers share their journey from tent camping to RV life. They discuss transitioning from a Class B camper van to a 30-foot travel trailer, the pros and cons of towing vs. van life, and the realities of long-term RV travel. From park hosting to balancing remote work and travel, their insights offer valuable tips for anyone considering life on the road.
Episode Guests
Ari and Jessi Adler define themselves as "most-timers" when it comes to RVing. While they still have a home base in Michigan, they are on the road 9 to 10 months out of each year in their RV. Ari and Jessi travel in a 2022 30-foot Airstream Flying Cloud Office model towed by a 1-ton Chevrolet van. The van has been set up as a weekend getaway vehicle, allowing the Adlers to camp in places where they can't or don't want to take their Airstream.
Jessi has a full-time remote job with a public relations agency while Ari takes on freelance writing and editing projects in addition to serving as a campground and park host. They also operate a website and YouTube channel to share their hiking and camping adventures.
• Treker's YouTube Channel
• Treker's Instagram
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
- Treker's Youtube Channel
- We’re the Russos YouTube Channel
- Newsletter sign up
- Book 1: Take Risks
- Book 2: Tales From the Open Road
Book a 60 Minute Call with Joe
Are you buying your first RV or have questions about RVing? Let’s see if booking a coaching session with Joe is the right fit for you. Learn More
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Episode Website
https://weretherussos.com/class-b-rv-to-travel-trailer-trekers/
In this episode, we sit down with Rich and Zoe from Defiance Tools to hear how they went from buying an RV for business to workcamping in Yellowstone. They share insights on choosing the right RV, running a remote business, and adapting to seasonal work in a national park. From managing limited connectivity to scooping ice cream in Yellowstone, their journey is full of adventure, challenges, and surprises!
If you’ve ever dreamed of workcamping in a national park or want practical tips on integrating RVing into your business, this episode is for you!
Episode Guests
Zoe and Rich started Defiance Tools to break away from the norm and to forge their own path.
They believe in working hard while having fun doing it. They began their business as an online store but quickly learned they could also travel the country selling their product and exploring the diverse landscapes and cultures of the United States.
Their gear is small, compact, unique, and is perfect for vanlifers, overlanders, RV'ers, and anyone enjoying life in a small space.
Through their journey with Defiance Tools, Zoe and Rich not only sell products but also share their passion for adventure, encouraging a community of like-minded individuals to live more freely and explore more boldly.
• Defiance Tools Instagram
• Defiance Tools Facebook
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
- Rich and Zoe's Yellowstone Adventure
- Delaware North Workcamping Jobs
- Yellowstone National Park Travel Guide
- We’re the Russos YouTube Channel
- Newsletter sign up
- Book 1: Take Risks
- Book 2: Tales From the Open Road
Book a 60 Minute Call with Joe
Are you buying your first RV or have questions about RVing? Let’s see if booking a coaching session with Joe is the right fit for you. Learn More
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Episode Website
https://weretherussos.com/workcamping-yellowstone-defiance-tools/
In this episode, we sit down with Adam Rubin from DogandaJeep—a passionate road tripper who turned his dream of exploring Alaska with his Alaskan Malamute, Odin, into a reality. Adam shares how his love for snow, adventure, and the open road inspired him to move from Detroit to Fairbanks, where he’s been living and exploring for the past few years.
With the perspective of a seasoned traveler and winter camping expert, Adam offers practical advice on driving through Alaska in all seasons, camping in subzero temperatures, and traveling with pets. From unforgettable journeys up the Dalton Highway to tips for staying comfortable in extreme conditions, Adam’s story is both inspiring and packed with insights for anyone planning their own Alaskan adventure.
Episode Guest
Adam Rubin is the Creative Director for the University of Alaska Fairbanks. After spending 10 years working for the Detroit Pistons of the NBA, he decided to make the leap and move to Alaska to camp and explore the Arctic region of North America. With his 10-year-old Alaskan Malamute, Odin, by his side, he drives an average of 30,000 miles a year, often embarking on 10+ day, 6,000-mile road trips throughout the North and the Pacific Northwest. When not working for UAF, he uses Instagram and YouTube as creative outlets to share his journeys with friends and family, showcasing the raw beauty of Alaska year-round.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
- Alaska Overlander 4x4 Camping Rentals
- Garmin inReach Satellite Communicator
- Thermacell Mosquito Repellant
- We’re the Russos YouTube Channel
- Newsletter sign up
- Book 1: Take Risks
- Book 2: Tales From the Open Road
Book a 60 Minute Call with Joe
Are you buying your first RV or have questions about RVing? Let’s see if booking a coaching session with Joe is the right fit for you. Learn More
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Episode Website
https://weretherussos.com/exploring-alaska-adam-rubin-dogandajeep/
In this episode, we chat with Melanie Garrido from Four Wheel Campers—a true adventurer whose journey from childhood camping trips to working for one of the most iconic pop-up truck camper brands is both inspiring and relatable. Melanie shares how her love for the outdoors and passion for adventure led her to discover Four Wheel Campers, embark on two years of full-time travel in her own camper, and ultimately join the company’s sales and marketing team.
With the unique perspective of an owner-turned-employee, Melanie offers invaluable tips and insights into choosing the right camper, maximizing its features, and embracing the unexpected joys of RVing. From unforgettable road trips to customizing her trusty 2017 Hawk rollover couch camper, Melanie’s story is a must-listen for adventurers and RV enthusiasts.
Episode Guest
In 2018, Melanie sold everything she had to travel the country in a Four Wheel Camper, then by the weird way of the world, now works for Four Wheel Campers. For as long as she can remember, all roads have led to making time for outdoor adventures. From camping as a baby to backpacking with the Boy Scouts to working in the bicycle industry and now with FWC, she gets to help others achieve their adventure dreams.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
- Videos: Truck Camper Life
- Our Hawk Flatbed Build Specs
- We’re the Russos YouTube Channel
- Newsletter sign up
- Book 1: Take Risks
- Book 2: Tales From the Open Road
Book a 60 Minute Call with Joe
Are you buying your first RV or have questions about RVing? Let’s see if booking a coaching session with Joe is the right fit for you. Learn More
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Episode Website
https://weretherussos.com/melanie-garrido-four-wheel-campers-pop-up-truck-campers/
In this episode, we welcome back industry expert Rick Kessler to discuss 2025 RV trends. Rick shares insights from the annual Elkhart RV Open House, market dynamics affecting dealers and consumers, and innovative designs emerging in RVs. Our discussion also touches on the classification of RVs, and highlights the 2025 RV of the Year, the Brinkley Model I, along with other standout models from this year’s top 10 list.
Episode Guest
Rick Kessler has been with G&G Media, publishers of RVBusiness and Woodall's Campground Magazines, for nearly a decade. In February 2022, he and business partner Scott Stropkai became owners of the small publishing firm headquartered in Elkhart, Indiana. Previously, Rick spent 20-plus years in the newspaper industry.
- RVBusiness.com - Woodallscm.com - RV Business Facebook Page - RV Business LinkedIn Page - RV Business YouTube Channel
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
- 2025 RV of the Year RV Business Magazine (Digital Edition)
- We're the Russos YouTube Channel
- Book 2: Tales From the Open Road
Book a 60 Minute Call with Joe
Are you buying your first RV or have questions about RVing? Let’s see if booking a 60 minute session with Joe is the right fit for you. Learn More
Support the Podcast
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Episode Website
In this episode, we sit down with Chris Hudak, co-founder of Escapod, the company behind the Topo 2 off-road teardrop trailer. Chris shares how he and his wife Jen started building campers in their garage and grew Escapod into a brand known for rugged, go-anywhere teardrop trailers. We dig into the design behind the Topo 2, what sets it apart in the overlanding world, and why durability and comfort are non-negotiables for them.
Episode Guest
Chris Hudak founded Escapod with his wife, Jen, in June 2016. The Escapod mission exemplifies his beliefs that enjoying the outdoors can be comfortable and limitless. The Escapod journey started with a crazy idea, a beer or two, and a sketch drawn on a napkin. Chris and Jen were always traveling and adventuring — their summertime passion was to jump in the car after the work-week and hit the road in search of the best mountain biking within a 12-hour drive. When they got sick of packing cars with tents, sleeping bags, cookware, food, coolers, water, 2 dogs...you get the point…they decided they needed a faster, more comfortable way to travel.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
- Video: Escapod Topo 2 Walk-Through
- We’re the Russos YouTube Channel
- Newsletter sign up
- Book 1: Take Risks
- Book 2: Tales From the Open Road
Book a 60 Minute Call with Joe
Are you buying your first RV or have questions about RVing? Let’s see if booking a coaching session with Joe is the right fit for you. Learn More
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Episode Website
In this episode, we sit down with Shannon Connolly, owner of Romestead, a unique campground nestled in the Smoky Mountains. Shannon shares her journey from a family camping trip that sparked a love for RVing to the creation of Roamstead, where she and her team have crafted a campground experience that balances the charm of outdoor adventure with the comforts of a boutique hotel.
From cozy cabins and yurts to thoughtfully crafted communal spaces, Shannon walks us through her journey of transforming an old campground into a haven for modern-day adventurers. If you're curious about what goes into creating a campground that captures the perfect blend of comfort and wilderness, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!
Episode Guest
Shannon Connolly was born and raised in the heart of the Smoky Mountains in Tennessee. She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and went on to complete her MBA at the University of Georgia. After a successful 15-year career in sales and marketing, the COVID-19 pandemic prompted her to rethink her professional path. Inspired by a long-standing family dream, she decided to embark on a new venture. In July 2023, after years of planning and vision, she and her husband, Thomas, proudly opened Roamstead, an upscale, modern campground. Shannon now lives in Chattanooga, Tennessee, with her husband and their two children.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
- Video: Camping at Roamstead Smoky Mountains
- We’re the Russos YouTube Channel
- Newsletter sign up
- Book 1: Take Risks
- Book 2: Tales From the Open Road
Book a 60 Minute Call with Joe
Are you buying your first RV or have questions about RVing? Let’s see if booking a coaching session with Joe is the right fit for you. Learn More
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Episode Website
https://weretherussos.com/roamstead-smoky-mountains-campground/
In this episode, we sit down with travel expert Maddi Whitehead of RVshare, who has gone on over 20 RV rental trips, sharing her experiences and tips for RVing through rentals. As someone who has never owned an RV, Maddie brings a unique perspective to the world of RV travel, highlighting the advantages of renting and exploring different types of RVs. From her ambitious first rental in Florida to a romantic RV trip in Hawaii, Maddi walks us through the lessons she’s learned along the way and tips for first time RV renters.
Episode Guest
Maddi is a seasoned travel expert with over a decade of experience in the travel industry. Having explored nearly all 50 states, 25 countries, and more than 20 RV rentals, Maddi has a wealth of knowledge in outdoor travel. She is currently a full-time advocate for RVshare, where she passionately supports the company’s mission to help travelers discover the magic of RV adventures. From the East Coast to the West Coast, Maddeline has embarked on countless road trips, checking off National Parks and RV experiences from her ever-growing bucket list.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
- Hawaii RV Rental Experience
- We’re the Russos YouTube Channel
- Newsletter sign up
- Book 1: Take Risks
- Book 2: Tales From the Open Road
Book a 60 Minute Call with Joe
Are you buying your first RV or have questions about RVing? Let’s see if booking a coaching session with Joe is the right fit for you. Learn More
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In this episode, we welcome our good friend, Paul Pritts, an experienced RV enthusiast and event organizer. Paul shares his journey from his first Baja camping adventures in a VW bus to becoming a well-known event organizer in the RV community, particularly for his gatherings in Baja, Mexico. We dive into topics such as travel safety, Baja RV tips, insurance, and what to expect at one of Paul's Baja meetups.
Paul also talks about the myths surrounding travel to Baja Mexico, offering practical advice for staying safe, navigating border crossings, and ensuring a fun and stress-free RVing experience. Whether you're curious about Baja’s stunning camp spots or want to hear about the legendary onesie competitions and tequila tastings at Paul's events, this episode is packed with valuable insights and fun stories.
Episode Guest
Paul Pritts grew up in Orange County, California, where he developed a love for all things outdoors at a young age, including a passion for camping and off-roading. He later moved to Arizona in the early 2000s, where his passion for the outdoors evolved into an obsession with Overlanding.
Over the years Paul has owned and modded countless OHV vehicles ranging from FJ40 Land Cruisers to motocross bikes in addition to many different types of Overland rigs, and RV’s. His obsession for modifying OHVs and RV’s has earned him the nickname the "Mod Master" within his circle of family and friends.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
- We’re the Russos YouTube Channel
- Newsletter sign up
- Book 1: Take Risks
- Book 2: Tales From the Open Road
Book a 60 Minute Call with Joe
Are you buying your first RV or have questions about RVing? Let’s see if booking a coaching session with Joe is the right fit for you. Learn More
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In this episode, we dive into the world of 4x4 RV conversions, lift kits, and suspension upgrades with Dave Eisenbeil, Director of Sales and Marketing at Quigley Motor Company. Our discussion covers how Quigley modifies Ford Transit vans, GM vans, and E-Series cutaways to help RVers gain more ground clearance, fit larger tires, and handle more rugged terrain.
Dave also breaks down the differences between all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive, explaining how each system impacts off-road performance. If you’ve ever considered lifting your RV or converting it to four-wheel drive, this episode is packed with insights to help you with your decision making.
Episode Guest
Dave Eisenbeil is the Director of Sales and Marketing at Quigley Motor Company. He has been a member of the team since 2018. When he is not working, he enjoys adventuring in the great outdoors, reading nonfiction, listening to podcasts, Formula One, electronic music, sunsets (sunrises too!), and deep conversations, preferably around a fire. He is a philomath with an insatiable desire to see what’s around the next corner.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
- QLift
- Transit Van Lift and Suspension Upgrade
- Taking a Quigley 4x4 Transit Camper Off-Road
- We’re the Russos YouTube Channel
- Newsletter sign up
- Book 1: Take Risks
- Book 2: Tales From the Open Road
Book a 60 Minute Call with Joe
Are you buying your first RV or have questions about RVing? Let’s see if booking a coaching session with Joe is the right fit for you. Learn More
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Episode Website
In this episode, we chat with Joel Holland, CEO of Harvest Hosts, about his fascinating journey from leading a video technology company to acquiring and growing one of our favorite RV membership programs. Our discussion explores Joel's transition from the daily grind to the freedom of RVing, the impulsive purchase of his first RV, and the subsequent adventures that led him to Harvest Hosts.
We delve into the motivations behind the acquisition of Escapees RV Club, the impact on the RV community, and Joel’s thoughts on the future of RVing. Joel also shares memorable stories from his travels, tips for making the most of a Harvest Hosts membership, and insights into the evolving landscape of RVing. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with valuable tips and exciting updates for RVers.
Episode Guest
Joel Holland is the CEO of Harvest Hosts, a membership program that connects RVers with unique overnight experiences at 5,000+ wineries, farms, breweries, museums, golf courses and other interesting destinations in the US and Canada. He is also the founder of Storyblocks, which was purchased by private equity firm Great Hill Partners in June 2020.
Joel has been named one of the "Top 25 Entrepreneurs Under 25" by BusinessWeek Magazine, "Young Entrepreneur of the Year" by the United States Small Business Administration, "Entrepreneur of the Year" for the Greater Washington DC Region by Ernst & Young, and recognized on the Inc. "30 Under 30" list.
When he isn't working, Joel is outside as much as possible with his family in Vail. He is proud to be a member of Vail Mountain Rescue, the search and rescue team for Eagle County, CO.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
- We’re the Russos YouTube Channel
- Newsletter sign up
- Book 1: Take Risks
- Book 2: Tales From the Open Road
Book a 60 Minute Call with Joe
Are you buying your first RV or have questions about RVing? Let’s see if booking a coaching session with Joe is the right fit for you. Learn More
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In this special episode of RVing with Joe & Kait, I had the pleasure of sitting down with my mom to reminisce about our incredible "Summer with Mom" family road trip. We took an 11,000-mile journey across the United States, filled with adventure, challenges, and unforgettable moments. From national parks to iconic landmarks and unexpected detours, this episode captures the essence of our family bonding on the open road. Join us as we explore the highs and lows of camper van life, the beauty of spontaneous travel, and the joy of creating lasting memories together.
Episode Guest
Christine Russo, also known as Momma Russo, has been a corporate executive and worn many different hats over the years, including being a mother to Joe and his sister. Despite her vast life experience, Christine had never camped or spent any time in an RV. Preferring to enjoy luxury travel, her idea of camping was staying at a motel. That said, Christine has an adventurous spirit and a willingness to try anything, so she jumped at the opportunity to spend a summer on the road.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
- Summer with Mom Video Series
- We’re the Russos YouTube Channel
- Newsletter sign up
- Book 1: Take Risks
- Book 2: Tales From the Open Road
Book a 60 Minute Call with Joe
Are you buying your first RV or have questions about RVing? Let’s see if booking a coaching session with Joe is the right fit for you. Learn More
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In this episode, we share our 10-day adventure in the GXV HILT by Storyteller Overland, delving into its features, driving experience, and interior layout. Tune in to hear our insights on this expedition vehicle's capabilities, from off-road performance to practical living amenities.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
- We’re the Russos YouTube Channel
- Newsletter sign up
- Book 1: Take Risks
- Book 2: Tales From the Open Road
Book a 60 Minute Call with Joe
Are you buying your first RV or have questions about RVing? Let’s see if booking a 60 minute session with Joe is the right fit for you. Learn More
Support the Podcast
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Episode Website
Join us as we navigate the transformative journey from traditional employment to full-time RV living with guest, Eric Johnson from TechnoRV. In this episode, we delve into Eric's bold leap into RV entrepreneurship, the intricacies of buying and scaling a business on the road, and the personal and professional challenges that come with such a dynamic lifestyle change.
Listen in to uncover the real experiences behind transitioning to life on wheels and running a thriving business, offering insights that resonate with aspiring entrepreneurs and adventurers alike.
Episode Guest
Eric Johnson has had many different chapters in his life, from corporate America, to giving it all up to full time RV for 7 years, running an online store during his travels, to stepping back from his online business to enjoy retirement. You may know Eric as the owner of TechnoRV, or as a friend from your travels, either way, you will likely enjoy this full circle success story from the RVing community. • TechnoRV
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
- TechnoRV
- We’re the Russos YouTube Channel
- Newsletter sign up
- Book 1: Take Risks
- Book 2: Tales From the Open Road
Book a 60 Minute Call with Joe
Are you buying your first RV or have questions about RVing? Let’s see if booking a coaching session with Joe is the right fit for you. Learn More
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Episode Website
https://weretherussos.com/rv-entrepreneur-eric-johnson-technorv/
Dive into the challenges and rewards of living the RV lifestyle and creating content on the road with guest, Scott Watson from Go Small, Live Large. In this episode, we explore the realities of YouTube creator burnout and the pursuit of a fulfilling life on wheels, shedding light on the often-unseen struggles behind the camera. Tune-in to gain a deeper understanding of life as a full-time RVer and content creator.
Episode Guest
In 2017, Scott was unhappy with a traditional lifestyle that included a big house (or as he call it, his storage unit) a long Chicago commute to a corporate job that left him unfulfilled. In 2018, he created a plan to reinvent his life. It began with buying a Winnebago Travato GL Camper Van and then started a YouTube channel about Vanlife.
In September 2021, he exited corporate America and became fully self-employed through YouTube and his RV partners. In February 2024 he completed his fifth year of full-time van travel. April 2024 begins a planned sabbatical from posting content on YouTube. Returning on August 28, 2024, he plans new types of content, including taking Viewers with him to exciting destinations such distilleries as a “bourbon hunter”.
Today, Scott is most pleased with the amazing Go Small. Live Large! Community he has built with his audience through YouTube and in-person events. As he says at the end of each video, “Journey On!”.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
- Go Small, Live Large! YouTube Channel
- Go Small, Live Large! Patreon
- We’re the Russos YouTube Channel
- Newsletter sign up
- Book 1: Take Risks
- Book 2: Tales From the Open Road
Book a 60 Minute Call with Joe
Are you buying your first RV or have questions about RVing? Let’s see if booking a coaching session with Joe is the right fit for you. Learn More
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Episode Website
https://weretherussos.com/youtube-burnout-scott-watson-go-small-live-large/
Join us in this episode as Jonny Feld from Field Van, an expert in custom van conversions, dives into the intricacies of creating a tailor-made camper van. Jonny unpacks the advantages and challenges of building a custom van, choosing the right chassis, common regrets and must-have features in a custom camper van. Jonny also shares some unique and interesting custom van builds along with questions to ask and things to consider when choosing a custom van builder.
Tune in to absorb Jonny's valuable insights and learn how customizing a camper van could redefine your adventures on the road.
Episode Guests
Jonny has been in the adventure van industry since he was nine years old. His parents Alan and Liz started Sportsmobile West in 1989. As a child he was always around the factory and started working in sales at trade shows at age 14. In 2003 he went to work full time at Sportsmobile West in the sales department. Jonny was later promoted to Sales manager and then became President in 2014. In 2020 Jonny left Sportsmobile and started Field Van. Field Van has locations in Fresno, CA and Reno, NV. He is married with two daughters and enjoys traveling, the outdoors, spending time with friends and family and long walks on the beach.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
- Summit S1 Pop-Up Camper Tour
- Thetford Portable Toilet for Camper
- We’re the Russos YouTube Channel
- Book 2: Tales From the Open Road
Book a 60 Minute Call with Joe
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