Solo Women RV Podcast

My guest this week is Lucille Reese. Lucille is a solo woman RVer and YouTube host. She shares with us all about her nomad journey and offers some great advice and tips for women just getting started, including how to meet others to caravan with. Listen in!   Show Notes: Follow Lucille on YouTube @OutdoorGypsy Rent an RV at Outdoorsy Apps mentioned: Harvest Hosts  And Ioverlander Join 6K other solo women RVers in our Facebook Group Stay up to date with the Solo Women RV blog --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

My guest this week is author Mary Ellen Telesha. Mary Ellen is the author of three books, all to help women get out on the road. She shares a bit of her own personal journey as a nomad and the advice she has for women considering a nomad lifestyle. I hope you enjoy our convesations. Show Notes: Mary Ellen's Book: Wild Women on the Road Follow Mary Ellen on Instagram Mary Ellen's Facebook Read Mary Ellen's Blog Connect with other Solo Women RVers Solo Women RV Blog Solo Women RV Facebook Group --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

Is Kansas a good place to visit and camp? You bet it is! I recently visited Kansas as a guest of the Kansas Tourism Board and have to say, I was quite surprised and impressed with all that Kansas has to offer for RVers and campers. My guest this week is Colby Sharples-Terry from the Travel Kansas tourism board. She shares about the best state parks to visit and camp in Kansas. Colby shares a bit of Kansas you might not know about and we chat about all the fun places to see and explore in the state. Show Notes: Read my article: Surprising Places to Camp in Western Kansas Join the Solo Women RV Facebook group Find unique places to camp on HipCamp --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

I've got something a little different this week. I am sharing an episode from the All Things RV podcast where I am the guest. That's right, instead of being the interviewer, I'm the interviewee. It was fun to sit down with Cathy Conrad from the All Things RV Podcast and share a bit of my story. Learn how I got into RV travel, why I travel solo, how I make a living to afford this lifestyle and of course, traveling with a cat as an RV companion. Show Notes: Join our Solo Women RVers Facebook Community Listen to Cathy's All Things RV podcast Listen to Cathy's interview all about buying an RV on the Solo Women RV podcast #110 --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

What are the do's and don't's of camping in a campground? This week on the podcast I share some of the things I've seen as a campground host that people do that aren't too cool. Some are written rules that people don't follow and others are just basic camping etiquette. Some are things that could actually destroy the natural environment. # 4 might be controversial. #10 is super important, especially this year. Here are my top 11 Camping Etiquette rules for 2024. Connect with Other Solo Women RVers Solo Women ⁠⁠⁠RV blog⁠⁠⁠: Solo Women RV ⁠⁠⁠Facebook Group⁠⁠⁠ Solo Women RV Theme song is Fields Station by ⁠⁠⁠Nikole Potulsky⁠⁠ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

My guest this week is Sandy Starr. Sandy's whole life changed in a blink of an eye and that led her to a life of RV living and a new career. Sandy went into work one day and a freak accident set her on a whole new course in life. Listen in to Sandy's inspiring story... Connect with Other Solo Women RVers Solo Women ⁠⁠RV blog⁠⁠: Solo Women RV ⁠⁠Facebook Group⁠⁠ Solo Women RV Theme song is Fields Station by ⁠⁠Nikole Potulsky⁠⁠ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

This week I have a replay of a powerful interview with Debra Dickinson. Debra became disabled and thought she would be unable to travel as she always dreamed of doing. When she was told she might not have long to live, Debra decided it was time to start checking things off her bucket list. The first thing was travel. What Debra discovered was that hitting the road and finding quiet and peace is actually the thing that saved her. Listen in to her powerful story. Show Notes & Links: ⁠Homes on Wheels Alliance⁠ ⁠Rubber Tramp Rendezvous⁠ Debra's book: ⁠How Being a Nomad Saved my Life⁠ Link to all of Debra's books Debra's ⁠YouTube Channel⁠ ⁠State Lines App⁠ Connect with Other Solo Women RVers Solo Women ⁠RV blog⁠: Solo Women RV ⁠Facebook Group⁠ Solo Women RV Theme song is Fields Station by ⁠Nikole Potulsky⁠ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

I am back with the podcast and back in Oregon at one of my favorite first come, first serve campgrounds near my homebase of Portland. On this week's episode, I decided to share some of my favorite places to camp near Portland that offer first come, first serve reservations. If you're like me, you don't like to plan too far in advance and having the option to find a place at the last minute is key. Listen in and let me know what you think. If you'd like to get a closer look at these campgrounds, here is an article I wrote that lists information about each one with a lot more details and photos: 10 First Come, First Serve Campgrounds Near Portland, OR Connect with other Solo Women RVers Solo Women RV blog Solo Women RV Facebook Group --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

I've got something serious to talk about this week. It's about making a plan for getting sick or injured while traveling. As I record this, I am recovering from an injury that is impacting my ability to drive and travel. I want to make sure that you have a plan in place, incase something happens to you and you're unable to drive your RV. What will you do? This week I share what's been going on with me and some solutions and ideas that you can use in case you get sick or injured while traveling solo in your RV. Show Notes: FMCA Medical Assist Good Sam Travel Assist Solo Women RV website "I broke my foot" episode --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

Sometimes you just need a place to stop and sleep. It doesn't have to be fancy or pretty or even offer any amenities. Thankfully, there are a lot of retail stores that welcome RVers to spend the night in their parking lots. This week's episode, we go over the different stores that allow RV overnight parking and how to find them. We also talk about some overnight parking etiquette and a few places where overnight parking is not allowed. Show notes: Join Harvest Hosts with a 15% off discount This episode is based on the blog article: What Stores Allow Overnight Parking (2024) Solo Women RV Podcast Theme song is Fields Station by Nikole Potulsky --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

This week I have a fun episode for you. Fellow solo female traveler Charlie Grace and I share our top 7 things we wish we knew about before hitting the road. We compare stories of what our expectations were before we hit the road as solo women RVers versus what the reality is of our lives on the road. We banter a bit back and forth. We had a blast and hope you enjoy this episode. Show Notes: Charlie Grace Adventures on Youtube Charlie Grace Adventures on Instagram Charlie Grace Adventures on Facebook Charlie Grace Adventures Website and Blog Solo Women RV Solo Women RV Website and Blog Solo Women RV Facebook Group Solo Women RV them song is Fields Station by Nikole Potulsky --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

What do you need to know before you buy an RV? There is surprisingly a lot that goes into the process of buying an RV--new or used. You need to figure out which class of RV is right for you. You need to make sure the rig you're buying is in good condition and once you do find your dream RV, you need to make sure you're not getting ripped off. My guest this week is an expert in all these areas. Cathy Conrad from RV Advisors offers customized one-on-one consulting services for folks who are just getting started in the RV lifestyle, want to make a change or who want to shorten their learning curve. Special Offer for Solo Women RV Podcast: TO BOOK A FREE 45 MIN CONSULTATION/STRATEGY CALL, PLEASE VISIT:  https://calendly.com/cathy-conrad-consulting/45min For 20% DISCOUNT on your RV Program of choice, use Discount Code:   SOLOWOMENRV Good thru 4/22/24. Connect with Cathy Conrad: Email: cathy@rvadvisors.net FB:  https://www.facebook.com/cathy.conrad1/ Private RV FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rvnewbiesnetwork  Connect with other Solo Women RVers: Solo Women RV Facebook Page Solo Women RV Blog   --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

This week my guest is Cynthia. Cynthia travels solo in her tow behind trailer with her German Shepard. Cynthia shares her stories of meeting angels on the road who came to her rescue and went above and beyond when she experienced breakdowns on the road. The first time Cynthia broke down, she was terrified. But now she knows, she doesn't have to be afraid. Key Take Aways:   1.    Everything will not go as planned. And that's a good thing. 2.    I know for me personally, one of my biggest causes of anxiety is the fear of breaking down. I think if I ever do break down again—and I'm sure I will—I will remember Cynthia's stories. 3.    Listen to my interview with Angie Peacock here. Show Notes: Join the Solo Women RV Facebook Group Check out the blog and newsletter at SoloWomenRV.com Solo Women RV podcast theme song is Fields Station by Nikole Potulsky --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

In this episode we're going to learn about what it's like to work at Yellowstone National Park. When I visited Yellowstone a few years ago, I fell in love and said to myself that I'd love to return to work here one day. What's it really like to work at Yellowstone National Park? I have two guests on the show today who share their experience and knowledge about working at Yellowstone as solo women RVers. My guests are Jan, solo woman RVer who has worked at Yellowstone for 12 years and Alden who is the Talent Acquisitions manager, who handles a lot of the hiring at Yellowstone. She shares about what it takes to get hired and succeed as a Yellowstone National Park employee. Show Notes: 1.    Qualities that make someone successful: willingness to learn, to be flexible, to be willing to be part of the community. 2.    Some of the RV sites are reserved for couples, but there are still plenty of opportunities at Yellowstone for Solos—and also there is housing provided if you don't have a fully self-contained RV. 3.    Part of your salary will go toward housing—whether you're in a dorm or in an RV. Meal plans are also offered. 4.    You can work at Yellowstone with a pet, but it needs to always be on a leash. And always attended to. 5.    Community is a big part of working at Yellowstone. It's such a big park, you're likely to find community in the district of the park you're in.  Links and Info about Working at Yellowstone: Current Job Openings About working at Yellowstone Working at Yellowstone Instagram Xanterra Instagram Yellowstone National Park Lodges More about Xanterra For Solo Women RVers Join our Facebook Group Read the Solo Women RV Blog         --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

I recently joined up with three other women to caravan from Portland, Oregon to Quartzsite, Arizona. I know a lot of women are interested in how to find others to caravan with, so I wanted to share my experience and what I learned from the driving 1200 miles with a group of other women RVers. Show Notes: Solo/Women RV Facebook Group Carrie Silverhorn: GST RV repairs Jen's interview on the Solo Women RV podcast --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

Are you thinking of taking a trip to Baja, Mexico in your RV or van? This week, we've got two experts who will tell you everything you need to know as a solo woman to plan the perfect trip to Baja. Heather and Keri have traveled to Baja multiple times and just got back from a 6-week trip. They discuss safety, what to do it you get pulled over by the police, what paperwork and documents you need to do before crossing the border and how to find great traveling companions. It's a bit longer than my usual episode, but chock full of great information. Listen in. Show Notes:     Safety: if you've never been to Baja before, a caravan is great way to ensure safety. Make sure you know what is and is not allowed to cross the border. No guns or weapons! If you do get stopped and questioned, just be polite, answer their questions. If they search you van, stay inside and watch. Bring two-way radios Listen to your gut—we say this all the time on this podcast. Have recovery gear and know how to use it. Go treads Make sure you're in your camp spot by sunset because driving at night can be dangerous. All About Starlink: Keri's interview on the Solo Women RV podcast   Get to know the people you're traveling with to make sure your travel styles gel. This Week's Guests: Heather's Instagram: Traveling While Butch Keri's Instagram: Keeping up with Keri --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

My interview with vanlifer and comedian Tamale was so inspiring. She has lots of good tips and advice for anyone who is sitting on the fence of whether or not you should make the leap into this lifestyle. She's been traveling for three years in a small Ford Transit, doing stand-up comedy shows and basically making a living any way she can. She travels with 4, yes 4 dogs. We had a wonderful conversation. Listen in. Key take aways:  I got some great tidbits from Tamale for the way she's structured her life to make full time van living a thing. Make the decision to be uncomfortable. Tamale demonstrates there are lots of ways to fund this lifestyle. She is a stand up comedian and that is her main income source, but she also works other odd jobs, house sitting, teaching online, balloon wrangler. Just because stuff gets hard, doesn't mean we should give up. If the thing that's keeping you from van/RV life is comfort and security, that's all an illusion anyway. 5.    Follow Tamale @TamaleRocks More Solo Women RV: Check out the ⁠Solo Women RV Blog⁠ Join the S⁠olo Women RV Facebook Group⁠ Solo Women RV theme song is Fields Station by ⁠Nikole Potulsky⁠ Please consider leaving a review or financially supporting the podcast. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

My guest this week is Emily Wilson from Pets Around the World. Emily is a travel writer who specialized in travel with pets. She's taken her two dogs to many National Parks and she hopes to one day be the one source of information about National Park travel with pets. She tells us which parks are most pet-friendly, what time of year is best to travel with pets to parks, how to keep your pets safe and so much more. Show Notes Dogs are allowed in most national parks, but where they are allowed inside each park will vary—even sometimes depending on the season. Look for BARK ranger programs for dogs Check in at the ranger station whenever you arrive at a new park Encounters with wildlife: It's best to avoide wildlife encounters if you can—so that means practicing bear safety and keeping food out of reach. Some parks might not be hospitable to your pets, so consider leaving them with a border or pet sitter, so you can explore the places pets are not allowed. If you travel to a lot of places with rattle snakes, consider signing your dog up for a rattle snake behavior class, so they learn to avoid them. Connect with Emily: Pets Around the World Pets Around the World Instagram --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

I sold two RVs this year. Both of them sold really easily and quickly. In this week's episode, I share the steps I took to sell both RVs in just a few days. Want more solo Women RV Content? Check out the ⁠Solo Women RV Blog⁠ Join the S⁠olo Women RV Facebook Group⁠ Solo Women RV theme song is Fields Station by ⁠Nikole Potulsky --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

Have you ever thought about renovating your RV's interior? Most RVs don't roll off the lot with the most stunning interiors. But with a few simple touches, you can make your RV feel homey and reflect your personality. My guest this week is Tessa Terry from Alchemy RV Renovations. Tessa shares some inexpensive and easy things you can do to give your RV a fresh new look. Listen in! Key Takeaways: 1. No matter what you're doing to upgrade your RV, consider that your home is going to be going through an earthquake every time you travel. 2. Everything you put into the RV has to go through the front door. 3. With small spaces, buy the best quality you can afford. It will pay off in the long run. 4. Easy thing to spruce up your space: buy new hardware for your cabinets, replace the lights, paint vent covers, a fresh bedspread will all make your place look new. And don't under estimate how much difference a deep cleaning can make. 5. Speaking of cleaning, when choosing fabrics and flooring get types that are easy to clean. 6. To avoid overwhelm, don't gut the whole RV at once. Do one room or area at a time. Show Notes: Follow Tessa on Instagram Visit Tessa's Website The Solo Women RV podcast theme song is Fields Station by Nikole Potulsky --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

This week I share 8 great gift ideas for solo women--or really any RVers. Here is my list: Luci Light Harvest Hosts Membership AAA Membership Battery Jump Starter Darn Tough Socks Gas Gift Card Moleskin or Camping Journal Road Atlas Solo Women RV contains affiliate links and participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these links, I may make a commission at no extra cost to you. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

As a solo RVer, I managed to go five years before I had black tank horror story. But this summer, I sure did have one. And let me tell you, that's something I never want to go through again. That's why this week, I have Sue Rasmussen as my guest. She is the owner of Royal Flush RV and she specialized in black and grey tank cleaning. This week's show, we'll have lots of tips and she'll settle the age-old debate—to flush toilet paper or not to flush toilet paper. Show Notes: Connect with Sue at Royal Flush RV How to Unclog an RV Toilet Best RV Toilet Chemicals Check out the Solo Women RV Blog Join the Solo Women RV Facebook Group Solo Women RV theme song is Fields Station by Nikole Potulsky Please consider leaving a review or financially supporting the podcast. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

This week we celebrate 100 episodes of the Solo Women RV podcast! I take a few moments to reflect on some memorable shows and interviews. Then we dive into the topic of today's show, the 7 Pros and 7 Cons of being a campground host. I've been both a paid and volunteer campground host and I share some of my personal experiences of the wonderful and not so wonderful aspects of being a camp host. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

My guest this week is Katie. Katie is fairly new to RVing and she decided to check out the scene in Quartzsite Arizona last year. Quartzsite is a destination for many RVers because it offers a plethora of free camping and a warmer climate in the winter months. There are several gatherings in Quartzsite for nomads to learn from one another, socialize, tour each other's rigs and even find seasonal jobs. Katie talks all about her first time at Quartzsite and why you should go, even if you're solo and don't know anyone there. Show Notes: Katie's blog Katie's YouTube Solo Women RV Blog Solo Women RV Facebook Group RTR and Women's RTR Solo Women RV theme song is Fields Station by Nikole Potulsky --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

This week we are talking with Vanna Mae all about Quartzsite, Arizona and why RVers flock there each December and January. Vanna tells us why Quartzsite is one of her favorite places--for the beauty and community. She tell us exactly where to camp, find water, dump your tanks, get groceries and most importantly, about the events and community meet-ups that make Quartzsite such a special place. Show Notes: Women's RTR and RTR Skoolie Palooza Big tent VanAID: Nomads Helping Nomads Vanlife Pride More about our guest Vanna Mae Vanna Mae's Youtube Vanna Mae's first interview on the Solo Women RV Podcast --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

Have you ever dreamed of traveling to Alaska, but feel intimidated as a solo traveler? My guest this week has been traveling to Alaska solo for many years and this year she's decided to lead a small caravan from Washington to south central Alaska. She tells us all about the trip, what you can expect, how to prepare and how to determine if this is the right trip for you. Show Notes: Find out more: Caravan to Alaska Solo Women RV blog Solo Women RV Facebook Group Keep up with Kathy's travels on Instagram The Solo Women RV Podcast theme song is Field's Station by Nikole Potulsky --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

This week my guest is Joni Zander from The Galavan who is a solo woman who lives full time in her van and primarily stays at free campsites. Joni will go over the different types of free camping available and how to find the best and safest places to stay. Check out the resources section for all of the different apps and resources Joni recommends to find free places to stay in your van, RV or travel trailer. Resources for Free Camping: Ioverlander—a good starting place to start looking for places Avenza - a good resources for maps Xscapers - a Facebook group with many experienced full-time nomads Escapees hand-out on being a good neighbor State Lines app Harvest Hosts - not free, but offers good alternative places to stay Road Trip her - a Facebook group that offers women driveways and places to stay SUV/Car Living and Camping Women Only - Facebook group for women who live in their cars or SUVs Free campsites dot net - a website that lists tons of free camping and overnight options --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

When freezing temperatures hit, you need to take some extra steps to keep your RV pipes from freezing. My guest this week is Carrie Silverhorn from GST RV. Carrie shares her best tips for everything you need to know to get your RV ready for the winter season. Show Notes: Listen to Carrie's first interview on the Solo Women RV podcast here Download Carrie's winterization guide here What kind of chemicals should you use in your RV? Read my article about RV toilet chemicals here --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

This week on the Solo Women RV Podcast our guest Betsy talks about her very first solo camping trip. Having done a lot of solo international travel, Betsy thought she was all set to handle a solo car camping trip. Until it came time to settle down for the night and fear took over. Learn how Betsy overcame her fear and was able to keep going on her journey. Betsy's story is a perfect example of having a beginner's mind. She made a few mis-steps, got scared, but kept going learning from her mistakes along the way. Listen in! (Ad break) And don't forget, for the month of October 2023, Solo Women RV podcast listeners get $10 off a yearly membership of the WINS (Wandering Individuals Network) RV club. It's a great way to connect with and travel with other solo RVers. Get your discount by entering SOLO WOMEN RV at checkout. Show Notes and Links: Solo Women RV website and blog Solo Women RV Facebook Group Theme Song Fields Station by Nikole Potulsky --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

In this episode I talk about my recent meet-up with a great group of wandering women RVers. I share some of my favorite parts of this group and give three reasons you should attend a women's RV meet-up or caravan. And don't forget, for the month of October 2023, Solo Women RV podcast listeners get $10 off a yearly membership of the WINS (Wandering Individuals Network) RV club. It's a great way to connect with and travel with other solo RVers. Get your discount by entering SOLO WOMEN RV at checkout. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

This week I am joined by Jenell Jones from the Wandering Individuals Network, an organization you'll want to know about if you want to travel with other solo RVers. WINS is an RV club for solo travelers of all genders who caravan together in everything from big class A's to car campers. Janell tells us all about the club, their itineraries and how you can get involved and travel with other active RVers. She addresses some of the concerns solo women might have about joining a club with mixed genders and she talks about how WINS has made a huge difference in the way she travels. Finally, we have special offer for listeners of this podcast. Join at WinsRVClub.com during the month of October and enter SOLOWOMENRV at checkout for a $10 discount off your membership. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

On this short episode I share some of my updates about my camp hosting job, what I'm thinking about doing this Fall/Winter and also an update on my RV situation. I also talk about an interview I did on The Galavan YouTube channel about the 10 Ways I Make Money as a Solo Woman RVer. Watch it here! Come hang out with us in our free Facebook Group. Become a Podcast Supporter --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

This episode is all about Tucker the Adventure Kitty: how I trained my cat Tucker to be comfortable in the RV and the things and products I use to make traveling with a feline companion so much easier and enjoyable. I share some of the things I learned a long the way. I shared things that worked. Things that didn't and how Tucker and I make the most of our time together on the road. Products mentioned in this episode: This is the backpack I use for Tucker Tucker LOVES this tent/catio Cat specific harness Cat GPS tracker Connect with Other Solo Women RVers Solo Women RV blog: Solo Women RV Facebook Group Solo Women RV Theme song is Fields Station by Nikole Potulsky --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

My guest this week is Portia. Portia made the brave decision to leave an abusive marriage and to hit the road. She bought an old RV and hit the road—traveling for three years full time. She talks about the decision to leave the marriage, why traveling in an RV was such a great move for her and share some of her top adventures she had on the road. Key Take-Aways 1.    All that really matters when purchasing an RV is the engine. 2.    People by their very nature like to help. And it makes them feel good to help. So don't deny someone the opportunity to feel good. 3.    There is an RV campground at Disney World. Fort Wilderness   4. Portia had some amazing experiences and there were also some isolated moments. But boy did she get the change of scenery she needed. Resources for Solo Women RVers and Campers: Visit the Solo Women RV blog Solo Women RV Facebook Group Solo Women RV theme song is Fields Station by Nikole Potulsky --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

As I am recording this, there is a wildfire burning just 40miles from me. I can see the smoke from my campground. Firefighters are swooping in with airplanes to collect water from my lake to douse the fire. The place where the fire started is right near a campground that I've camped at.   I decided to pull this episode from the archives. It's an interview with Lisa Knight who is a fire fighter, EMT and avid camper. She shares with us her best tips for preventing a wildfire and also what to do in the unlikely event you find yourself camping when a wildfire breaks out. Connect with Other Solo Women RVers Solo Women RV blog: Solo Women RV Facebook Group Solo Women RV Theme song is Fields Station by Nikole Potulsky --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

As a solo woman RVer, I rely on my apps to find me great places to camp, places to hike and even places to get cheap gas. There are a lot of apps out there, some free, some paid, that cater to campers and RVers and these are the 8 that I use the most. What apps do you use? My Favorite Camping Apps Campendium iOverlander Harvest Hosts The Dyrt All Trails Gas Buddy Recreation.gov All Stays --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

In this episode I share all about my job this summer as a campground host in Oregon. I share a bit about how I got the job, the application process, what is involved in the training and a report from my first few weeks on the job. If you've ever thought about becoming a campground host, this show is for you. Show Notes: Listen to my interview with Jody Anderson Duquette, Executive Director of Workamper News and Workamper.com Come visit the Solo Women RV Facebook group! The 9 Ways I make money as a Solo Woman Rver Solo Women RV them music is Field Station by Nikole Potulsky --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

This week on the podcast I speak with Shannon. Shannon headed out on the road after her first home was destroyed in a storm. She bought a cheap van, did a minimal build and set out. She received some assistance along the way, but when her money ran out, she had some medical and van issues, she now finds herself in a precarious situation. She wanted to come on and share her story so that others can learn from her situation. Shannon definitely had some angels come to her rescue along the way. I really appreciate her vulnerability for sharing all that's happened to her. And I also appreciate her outlook—she continues to find the good in all that's happened to her. Show Notes: Shannon's Interview with Bob Wells of Cheap RV Living:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y5Z-5OrnCb0 HOWA: Home on Wheels Alliance Connect with Other Solo Women RVers Solo Women RV blog: Solo Women RV Facebook Group Solo Women RV Theme song is Fields Station by Nikole Potulsky --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

This week on the podcast I share all about my new RV. I've been traveling in a 2000 American Cruiser Class B RV and if you've listened to this show for a while, you know I've had my share of break-downs. I was hoping to get one more season out of my RV that I call "Squeaky," but the universe had other plans. What happened? What kind of RV did I ultimately get? And most of all, how do I like it? Listen in for all the details. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

My guest this week is Susan Carpenter, the president and chair of the Women's RV Alliance, an organization that supports women who work or aspire to work in the RV industry. She share with us how this organization came to be, how she helped start it, why it's important and how we as women RVers and campers can support women who work in this male dominated industry. Find out more and join for free at https://rvwa.org/ Key Take-Aways: The mission of the RV Women's Alliance is to elevate, educate, and promote women in the RV industry through education, networking and community service. Membership is free and it's open to anyone who works or wants to work in any aspect of the RV industry. They hold a symposium every year in October in Chicago for networking and education. One way as consumers that we can support women in the RV industry is to support companies that elevate and promote women. So do your research before you make a purchase to see what ones rank high for diversity, equity and inclusion in their work places. Connect with Other Solo Women RVers Solo Women RV blog: Solo Women RV Facebook Group Solo Women RV Theme song is Fields Station by Nikole Potulsky --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

Debra Dickinson was diagnosed with a traumatic brain injury, so severe that she had to have a trustee help her with her financial decisions. Yet, when she got the news that things were getting worse and she might not live a year and if she did, she wouldn't remember it, she did something quite brash. Debra set out to travel—something that had been on her bucket list. Debra Dickinson not only did not die--she is now thriving on the road. She's found a way to make solo nomad life work for her and she's even created a community that support one another out on the road. She's got a Youtube channel, hosts a yearly gathering and is a resource and support for others out on the road.  Debra's story is quite remarkable and I am feel blessed that's she shared it with us all. Listen to the end. Her story left me in tears. Show Notes & Links: Homes on Wheels Alliance Rubber Tramp Rendezvous Debra's book: How Being a Nomad Saved my Life Debra's YouTube Channel State Lines App Connect with Other Solo Women RVers Solo Women RV blog: Solo Women RV Facebook Group Solo Women RV Theme song is Fields Station by Nikole Potulsky --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

This week on the podcast my guest is Maria Boutzoukas, a solo female vanlifer who dreamed of living in a van since she was a kid. She has so many people, and even the voices in her head, telling her that selling her house and moving into a van wasn't practical. But now that she's done it, she know she made the right decision. We talk about all the ups and downs that came from selecting obtaining a van, building it out and finally hitting the road. Maria has ADHD and she quickly discovered that life on the road actually helped her symptoms. The constant changing scenery makes her feel more calm. She's loving life on the road and share a bit of her story with us. Key Take Aways: 1.    There are a lot of ways to make community. Take advantage of them. Maria and I have never met in person, but we were part of a group on Clubhouse and then started to follow each other on Instagram. This interview was our first time actually chatting and now I feel like if we do meet up in real life, we'll have so much to connect about. 2.    With her ADHD diagnosis, the continuous chaos of moving and changing her environment actually helps her stay calm and focused. The constant change of scenery inspires her creativity and that helps at her job.    3.    Rolling with the punches—going with the flow. When Maria didn't get her van as expected, she showed a key trait of successful rv/van living. She pivoted and sketched the whole thing out so she could start the build as soon as she got it. 4.    Because Maria travels and works full time from her van, she needed a really good cellular set up. She consulted with engineers and settled on a pep wave and Starlink system. She's still trying to dial it in exactly. But like many things in this lifestyle, we try and tweak and adjust until we get it right. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

The Girl Camper podcast one of the first podcasts I listened to when I was getting started on my RV journey, so it's my pleasure to have Lesa McDermott, the Vice President of Operations at Girl Camper as my guest this week on the Solo Women RV podcast. Girl Camper is much more than a podcast. It's evolved into an organization with chapters all over the US with one purpose--to educate women to get out and enjoy the outdoors. The Girl Campers have different chapters all over the US with events happening in each region. Meet-ups can vary from lunch with fellow campers to multi-day camping trips. They have a free Facebook group with more than 400,000 members! They also have a beautiful magazine--which Lesa has generously offered a free one year digital subscription for our listeners. Details on how to get your copy are below. Links and Show notes: Get a free digital Girl Camper magazine subscription here-enter code girlcampersolo Girl Camper Facebook group Sign up at the Girl Camper Website for a one-time $10 fee to access all the private events. Solo Women RV website and blog Solo Women RV Facebook Group Theme Song Fields Station by Nikole Potulsky --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

My friend Sari reached out to me to let me know she was going on her very first solo camping trip--her first time camping as an adult--at age 47. I first interviewed Sari back in July 2021 and I'm sharing her story again because she is such a good story teller. She shares everything she did to prepare and the funny mishaps that happened along the way. After listening to Sari's story, you'll never look at guacamole the same way again. Connect with Other Solo Women RVers Solo Women RV blog: Solo Women RV Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/3139043422990289 Solo Women RV Theme song is Fields Station by Nikole Potulsky --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

There are lots of ways to make money as an RVer and I like to joke that I do ALL of them. Here are the 9 ways that I make money to travel in my RV: Freelance Writing Selling Books on Amazon Contract Customer Service Work Wonolo Drive for Postmates (Now Uber Eats) Sell on E-bay Secret Shop Workamping as a Campground Host Podcasting and Blogging --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

My guest this week is Val Nelson, a career and business coach who works with women who want to start their own businesses. Val and I talk about why coaching can be a great business for women who live on the road and why RVers are especially suited for entrepreneurship. Key Take-Aways: Val is a business and career coach. But that's had several iterations along the way. She coached on starting an online business, marketing consulting and other iterations before she honed in on coaching introverted and highly sensitive women who want to run their own businesses. So, you can start where you are and it doesn't mean that's where you will end up. If you're thinking of starting a business, make sure it's something you really enjoy, that you get excited about. Because if you're not, you won't be successful at it. Being a coach can be a great business to start to sustain you while you travel. There are all different kinds of coaches. Again, find your passion. If you're an RVer you have the entrepreneurial spirit. There's a lot of worries that people have around starting their own business, but just like living an RV lifestyle, there are those who have gone before you who can help you figure it out. If you want to work with Val or find out more about what she's offering check out ValNelson.com Connect with Other Solo Women RVers Solo Women RV blog: Solo Women RV Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/3139043422990289 Solo Women RV Theme song is Fields Station by Nikole Potulsky --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

This week on the podcast I share all the things I'm doing to prepare to hit the road for a season on travel. I talk about getting my RV ready, getting my home ready for travel and all the things I need to do to for my job this summer as a campground host. Show Notes:  1. Getting RV ready:  Uncover it Fill water Replace rod in water tank Turn on all faucets and check for leaks Fill hot water heater and check that Check stove Check Refrigerator Turn on all fans Drive it around     2. Get house ready to rent List on Furnished Finder & Airbnb Repair floor Refinish kitchen table Find landscape maintenance person Remove my personal affects Clean basement 3. Get ready for job Drug testing Assess Clothes and footwear I need Getting van ready—the place I'm going to be working has no power hook-ups, so I purchased a Jackery lithium battery     Connect with Other Solo Women RVers Solo Women RV blog: Solo Women RV Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/3139043422990289 Solo Women RV Theme song is Fields Station by Nikole Potulsky --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solowomenrv/support

My guest this week, Kristin Hanes, is a digital nomad who's figured out a way to make a great living while living in her van and sailboat and she wants to teach you how to do it as well. Kristin runs The Wayward Home blog and podcast--all about RV, van, sailboat and tiny home living. She's learned how to make a living writing about her passion while she travels. And she's come on the show to talk to us about how she does this. If you'd like to dig deeper and sign up for Kristin's course, Niche Sites Made Easy, we're offering a $50 discount if you sign up via this link: https://solowomen--thewaywardhome.thrivecart.com/niche-sites-made-easy/ Mentioned in this Episode: Kristin's Free Intro to Blogging Course Project Vanlife Replays Niche Sites Make Easy (my affiliate link) Key Takeaways 1. These are the ways blogs make money: advertising, affiliate links, sponsored posts and products that you sell on your site. 2. If you want to know more about the vanlifer summit, link is in the show notes 3. If you do decide you're ready to jump in and want to take Kristin's Nice Site course, please use my link, because as an affiliate, I'll make a few dollars from your purchase. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/kathy-belge/support

Have you ever wanted to attend a gathering where you could hang out with other solo women who RV, camp and live in vans? This week on the podcast, I interview Merissa Peterson who is the onsite event coordinator for A Roam of Our Own, a women-only vanlife gathering March 16-19, 2023 in Palm Springs, California. Take Aways: 1. A roam of our Own—March 16-19, 2023 just outside of Palm Springs, CA. Cost is about $100 per person. 2. They are still looking for people to lead events or a craft and discounts are available for workshop presenters. Reach out to josiah@thejournaloflosttime.com if you're interested. 3. This event is not a big party event like some vanlifer gatherings. Expect it to be chill and inviting. Links: Journal of Lost Time Instagram A Roam of Our Own Connect with Other Solo Women RVers Solo Women RV blog: Solo Women RV Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/3139043422990289 Solo Women RV Theme song is Fields Station by Nikole Potulsky --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/kathy-belge/support

My guest this week is Michelle Fishburne. In 2020-2021 Michelle traveled 12,000 miles in her RV interviewing hundreds of people about what their lives were like during the Covid-19 pandemic. Michelle turned those stories into a beautiful book Who We Are Now: Stories of What Americans Lost and Found during the COVID-19 Pandemic I had a great chat with Michelle about her travels, about being a third generation RVer, what it was like to travel solo in her RV during the pandemic and some of the key take-aways from the people she met on her journey. Mentioned in this Episode: Buy Michelle's book: Who We Are Now: Stories of What Americans Lost and Found during the COVID-19 Pandemic Find out more about Michelle's journey at WhoWeAreNow.us Connect with Other Solo Women RVers Solo Women RV blog: Solo Women RV Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/3139043422990289 Solo Women RV Theme song is Fields Station by Nikole Potulsky --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/kathy-belge/support

This week we tackle the question, "Will I get lonely as a solo woman traveling alone in my RV or van?" The answer is, "Probably." Loneliness can be a part of solo travel. But loneliness doesn't have to be a bad thing. There are things you can learn about yourself by being solo that you won't be able to learn any other way. On this episode I share some of my thoughts about loneliness and solo travel and I also share some ideas from other solo female travelers about how they cope with loneliness on the road. Connect with Other Solo Women RVers Solo Women RV blog: Solo Women RV Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/3139043422990289 Solo Women RV Theme song is Fields Station by Nikole Potulsky --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/kathy-belge/support