Podcasts about rv lifestyle

Retirement isn't the end of the adventure. For many RVers, it's just the beginning.In this episode of the RV Podcast, Mike and Jennifer Wendland celebrate the release of their new book, The Complete Guide to RVing in Retirement: What to Expect at Every Age, and share some of its most valuable lessons.They discuss what RV life typically looks like through each stage of retirement, from the Bucket List Years to the Sweet Spot, the Adjustment Years, and beyond. Along the way, they explain the 330 Rule for more enjoyable travel, how to choose an RV based on the physical work it requires, how to prepare for unexpected medical issues while on the road, and why having a sense of purpose is one of the biggest keys to enjoying this lifestyle for decades.If you've ever wondered whether your best RV years are still ahead of you, this episode is for you.Learn more about the new book at: https://rvlifestyle.com/retirementguideAnd don't forget to subscribe to our free Daily RV Newsletter at: https://RVLifestyle.com/Newsletter

Meet Ron and Barbara Abler: Proof That RVing Has No Age LimitRon is 87. Barbara is 82. And right now, they're probably somewhere on the road, planning the next trip.In this episode, Mike Wendland sits down with longtime friends of the RV Lifestyle community, Ron and Barbara Abler, to talk about what it actually takes to keep RVing in your 80s. Ron retired three times, from Penn State University in 1995, the Association of American Geographers in 2002, and the International Geographical Union in 2016. Barbara spent her career as a professor of geography at the University of North Carolina before retiring from the federal government in 2005. They bought their first RV, a Roadtrek Clas B, in 2018, and haven't slowed down since, traveling this past year from their home in Sheboygan, Wisconsin all the way to California, with stops at RV Lifestyle rallies in Fredericksburg, Texas, St. Augustine, Florida, and Empire, Michigan.They talk candidly about the health scares and mechanical breakdowns that come with life on the road, how their travel style has changed since 2018, and what they'd tell any retiree who thinks they might be getting too old for another adventure.Jennifer is off this week recovering from knee replacement surgery, we hope to have her back at the mic soon.Also in this episode: Mike shares the new RV Maintenance Tracker app, plus listener questions on flat towing versus tow dollies and choosing between solar and a generator for boondocking.Got a question for a future episode? Send it through the CONTACT link at https://RVPodcast.com.Sign up for the free RV Lifestyle newsletter: https://RVLifestyle.com/newsletter Check out the RV Maintenance Tracker: https://RVLifestyle.com/maintenance

Roadtrek has a new owner, again.In this breaking news episode, Mike examines the sale of Roadtrek from France's Groupe Rapido to Conestogo Partners, a U.S.-based investment group focused on outdoor recreation.Roadtrek has one of the most fascinating histories in the RV industry, from pioneering the Class B motorhome market to surviving bankruptcy and multiple ownership changes. Mike explains what this latest sale means for owners, dealers and the future of one of RVing's most iconic brands.The episode also covers the end of the Westfalia experiment in North America, the uncertain market facing RV manufacturers today, and why this ownership change comes at such an interesting time for Canadian-built RVs.Could this finally be the long-term home Roadtrek has been searching for?More details can be found at RVLifestyle.com/roadtrek-sold-againFor more RV news and practical RV lifestyle advice, visit RVLifestyle.com and subscribe to our free daily newsletter at RVLifestyle.com/Newsletter.

This week on the RV Lifestyle Podcast News Edition, Mike Wendland takes a hard look at one of the biggest frustrations facing RV owners today: service department problems at some of the nation's largest RV dealer chains.You'll also hear about the extreme weather that disrupted RV travel from the Great Lakes to Texas, California's new effort to crack down on ghost campground bookings, a major fire-risk recall affecting many Tiffin motorhomes, an important wildlife safety reminder following a Yellowstone bison attack, and why catalytic converter thefts are once again targeting RV owners across the country.Every story in this episode is fully researched, independently sourced, and explained in plain English, along with practical takeaways you can use to travel smarter and more safely. Complete source links are available in the transcript tab above.If you enjoy the podcast, please subscribe and leave a review. It helps other RVers discover the show and supports the work we do every week to keep you informed.The RV Trip Dashboard we talked about is at RVLifestyle.com/TripDashboardThanks for listening, and as always... Happy Trails

Episode #625 - RV Insurance Done Right, the New Maintenance Tracker, and Slowing Down on the RoadAre you actually covered for life on the road? Matt Jacobs, RV Product Manager at Progressive Insurance, joins Mike to break down the coverage RVers need, the mistakes people make when buying it, and why insurance is one of the topics that comes up most in our Facebook Group.Also this week: the launch of the RV Maintenance Tracker, a one-time-purchase app for logging every service, tire check, and repair in one synced place. Find it at RVLifestyle.com/maintenance.Then, two listener questions: whether Starlink is worth adding to your setup if you're not working from the road, and how Mike and Jennifer have adjusted their travel pace in their 70s, including the "330 Rule" that changed how they plan travel days.Jennifer is taking the week off to recover from knee replacement surgery.Links mentioned:RV Maintenance Tracker: https://RVLifestyle.com/maintenanceFree daily newsletter: https://RVLifestyle.com/newsletterSend us your questions: https://RVPodcast.com (Contact link)

RV podcaster Kenny Phillips shares Belle's RV Adventures, the first of his books from his pooch's perspective on traveling and seeing this wonderful land.  We also hear about a gadget that'll help you park and move your travel trailer or fifth wheel with pushbutton ease. You can find this week's podcast at our home on the web or wherever you enjoy getting podcasts: https://www.stresslesscamping.com/podcast/0367 The StressLess Camping podcast is a weekly RV podcast with information, tips and tricks to help every RVer and camper enjoy some StressLess Camping. Chapters: 00:00:00 - Welcome to StressLess Camping RV Podcast Episode 367 00:00:59 - StressLess Campers Tony and Peggy 00:01:30 - RV Basic Training Camp 00:02:24 - Reliable lithium and solar installation from ABC Upfitters 00:03:45 - We welcome our guest Kenny Phillips 00:05:08 - Kenny and Sabrina camping, living, and testing Winnebago 00:10:14 - Kenny on being a Winnebago Ambassador 00:15:53 - How Kenny and Sean started the Beyond the Wheel podcast 00:23:58 - Belle's RV Adventures 00:41:32 - Don't suffer - use Harvest Hosts 00:42:55 - Gadget of the Week: ParkIt360 01:00:09 - Question of the Week: What souvenirs do you collect? 01:02:11 - We appreciate you and wish you StressLess Camping

From New Brunswick camping and lobster to wheel position weighing, Smoky Mountain RV rentals, and premium national park trips, this episode helps RVers plan smarter, travel safer, and understand what every pound really means.Discover New Brunswick camping options, from off-grid dark sky stays to full-hookup resorts, glamping, lobster, and horse camping.Learn why wheel position weighing reveals safety issues a basic truck stop scale may miss. Hear how Miss Daisy became a Smoky Mountains RV rental business built around setup, checklists, and real-world lessons. Understand why premium RV rentals are growing near western national parks and who is driving that demand.John talks with Salma Burney of the New Brunswick Campground Owners Association about camping options, history, lobster, off-grid stays, and why the exchange rate may make Canada especially appealing for American RVers.Then Jim and Rene sit down with Trey Selman from the RV Safety & Education Foundation to explain wheel position weighing, weight distribution, tire safety, water weight, and why every item you pack matters.Rose and Glynn talk with RV Entrepreneur Bob Ashcraft about turning "Miss Daisy" into a Smoky Mountains RV rental business and writing a book to help new campers avoid expensive lessons.Bob wraps up with Becky Goodell, CEO of Blacksford RV Rentals, on premium RV rental growth near western national parks and why more travelers want the RV experience without buying first.Get Complete Show Notes & Full Transcripthttps://podcast.rvlife.com/rvlife163/Connect & Learn Morehttps://facebook.com/rvlifepodcast/https://instagram.com/rvlifepodcast/https://www.facebook.com/groups/rvlifemovementSpecial  Discount Codes: Click Link & Use Code* RV LIFE Pro  25% off at check out

Brand-new RVs are being liquidated in the middle of peak camping season, and that's just the beginning.In this week's RV Lifestyle Podcast News Edition, Mike Wendland examines why the RV industry is facing growing challenges, what the newly announced Patrick-Lippert merger could mean for RV owners, and why record Fourth of July crowds created chaos in many National Parks.Also this week:• A look at the latest RV safety recalls • Expanding public campgrounds that could make reservations easier • An inspiring story about one RVer who accomplished an incredible National Park milestoneEvery story featured in this episode is fully sourced. Click the transcript tab for complete show notes and links to every article referenced.Be sure to subscribe to the RV Lifestyle Newsletter at RVLifestyle.com for daily RV news, travel inspiration, and practical advice delivered free to your inbox.

For years, we dream about retirement. We imagine freedom, open roads, and finally having the time to do everything we've always wanted. But what happens when that day finally arrives?In this episode of Stories from the Road, Mike and Jennifer share an honest conversation about what they've discovered in the second half of life. After more than 15 years of RV travel, they've learned that retirement isn't really an ending, it's the beginning of a whole new adventure.They talk about slowing down without giving up, finding purpose beyond a career, making time for family, embracing curiosity, and why some of life's greatest moments happen when you stop rushing to the next destination.Along the way, they answer your RV questions, share practical travel advice, and reflect on the friendships, experiences, and unexpected lessons the RV lifestyle has brought into their lives.Whether you're already retired, planning for retirement, or decades away from it, this episode offers a thoughtful reminder that the best years of life may still be ahead.In this episode:Why retirement isn't the finish lineLearning to slow down without stoppingThe importance of purpose at every ageHow RV travel changes the way you see America and yourselfJennifer answers a listener's question about preparing for full-time travelMike answers an RV technical question from a listenerFor complete show notes, visit RVPodcast.com.Join our free daily RV Lifestyle newsletter, delivered every morning by 7:30 a.m. Eastern, at RVLifestyle.com/newsletter.

For years, we dream about retirement. We imagine freedom, open roads, and finally having the time to do everything we've always wanted. But what happens when that day finally arrives?In this episode of Stories from the Road, Mike and Jennifer share an honest conversation about what they've discovered in the second half of life. After more than 15 years of RV travel, they've learned that retirement isn't really an ending, it's the beginning of a whole new adventure.They talk about slowing down without giving up, finding purpose beyond a career, making time for family, embracing curiosity, and why some of life's greatest moments happen when you stop rushing to the next destination.Along the way, they answer your RV questions, share practical travel advice, and reflect on the friendships, experiences, and unexpected lessons the RV lifestyle has brought into their lives.Whether you're already retired, planning for retirement, or decades away from it, this episode offers a thoughtful reminder that the best years of life may still be ahead.In this episode:Why retirement isn't the finish lineLearning to slow down without stoppingThe importance of purpose at every ageHow RV travel changes the way you see America and yourselfJennifer answers a listener's question about preparing for full-time travelMike answers an RV technical question from a listenerFor complete show notes, visit RVPodcast.com.Join our free daily RV Lifestyle newsletter, delivered every morning by 7:30 a.m. Eastern, at RVLifestyle.com/newsletter.

This week's RV Lifestyle Podcast News Edition is packed with practical information to help you travel smarter.Mike explains why slowing RV sales could create exceptional buying opportunities, looks at what will likely be the busiest Fourth of July travel week ever, breaks down where fuel prices are headed, explains the latest Starlink changes affecting RVers, and wraps up with two travel center stories you'll definitely want to know before your next trip.Full Transcript Available with sourcesA complete transcript of this episode is available in the Transcript tab at RVPodcast.comHave a question for a future episode?We love hearing from listeners. Send us your questions, comments, or story ideas through the Contact link at RVPodcast.com. Your question may be answered on a future podcast.Don't forget to subscribe to our free daily RV Lifestyle Newsletter at RVLifestyle.com/newsletter and join our private, ad-free RVCommunity at RVCommunity.com.Happy Trails!

From planning an RV trip to Washington DC for America 250 to protecting yourself online, supporting a powerful nonprofit mission, and catching up with RVing Today, this episode is practical, inspiring, and timely.Plan an RV trip to Washington DC with Cherry Hill Park tips on transit, tickets, tours, heat, and America 250 events.  Protect your online life with RV WebSafe advice on Wi-Fi, passwords, banking alerts, scams, VPNs, and cyber safety.  Hear how One Dad's Mission supports Ronald McDonald House through fundraising, bike rides, and authentic partnerships.  Learn what's new with RVing Today as the show enters season 16 with expanded TV coverage and Tech Time segments. John talks with Jennifer Gurevich from Cherry Hill Park about RVing to Washington DC for America 250, using public transportation, planning museum visits, and avoiding city traffic.Jim sits down with Robert Mahaffey from RV WebSafe to discuss cybersecurity for RVers, including campground Wi-Fi, password habits, banking alerts, scam texts, and safer remote work practices.For The RV Entrepreneur, Rose and Glynn talk with Jeff Bekos of One Dad's Mission about his family's Ronald McDonald House experience, cross-country fundraising rides, and building nonprofit support with integrity.Bob wraps up with Jose Moniz, executive producer of RVing Today, on the show's 16th season, expanded station coverage, streaming options, and Jessica Ryder's new Tech Time segment.Get Complete Show Notes & Full Transcripthttps://podcast.rvlife.com/rvlife162/Connect & Learn Morehttps://facebook.com/rvlifepodcast/https://instagram.com/rvlifepodcast/https://www.facebook.com/groups/rvlifemovementSpecial  Discount Codes: Click Link & Use Code* RV LIFE Pro  25% off at check out

The RV industry is chasing the wrong generation. While manufacturers court 30-somethings with outdoor TVs and influencer campaigns, the buyers who are actually writing checks right now look nothing like the people in the ads.Last week I sat around a campfire in Hocking Hills, Ohio with 88 members of our RVCommunity. I asked how many had bought a new RV in the past year. Eleven hands went up. A 12th would have, but he was out on a six-mile hike. He was turning 70.That tells you everything the sales charts do not.In this episode we dig into who is really driving the RV market right now, what experienced RVers actually want that manufacturers keep missing, the quiet but alarming shift happening in our national parks, and a dramatic rescue on the Appalachian Trail that is a reminder of exactly why preparation matters out there.Read the companion blog post on RVing in the second half of life at RVLifestyle.com - link below.Here is the complete episode, start to finish.THE RV PODCAST - MONDAY NEWS EDITION Episode Air Date: Monday, June 23, 2026 - 6:00 AM Approx. Running Time: 25 Minutes Host: Mike WendlandTHE LAST GENERATION THAT KNOWS HOW TO TRAVEL ...and why the RV industry keeps ignoring themOPENLast week I was sitting around a campfire in Hocking Hills, Ohio, with about 50 members of our RVCommunity.com.I asked a simple question: how many of you have bought a brand new RV in the last year?Eleven hands went up. A 12th would have, but he was out on a six-mile sunset hike - and he was turning 70 that summer.This was happening while the RV industry is posting some of the worst wholesale shipment numbers in over a decade.Which raises a question the people running this industry ought to be asking themselves: who exactly are they building RVs for?Because I can tell you who is actually buying them. And they look nothing like the people in the ads.OPENINGGood morning and welcome to the RV Podcast Monday News Edition. I'm Mike Wendland.Eighteen Emmy Awards. Thirty-plus years covering everything from wars to the White House to consumer affairs. And for the past 15 years, living the RV lifestyle myself with my wife Jennifer in every type of rig you can imagine, coast to coast, all 48 contiguous states.Today's show is a little different. Instead of leading with a breaking story, I want to start with something I witnessed firsthand that I believe tells you more about the real state of the RV market than any press release you will read this year.And if you want to go deeper after you listen, I have been writing about this topic at RVLifestyle.com for the past several weeks. We have been exploring what it means to RV in the second half of life - the freedom, the community, the mindset, and yes, the ways the industry keeps getting it wrong. There is a link in the show notes. I think you will recognize yourself in it.Here is what is happening on the road. And here is what the industry is getting wrong. Let's get into it.LEAD STORY: THE LAST GENERATION THAT KNOWS HOW TO TRAVELThe RV industry is having a rough year. A really rough year. And the numbers tell the story fast, so let me give them to you and move on, because the real story is not the numbers. The real story is who is still out there buying and camping while those numbers grind downward.Wholesale shipments are down more than 13 percent through the first four months of 2026. Retail sales off 14 to 15 percent from last year. The industry's own forecast, just revised downward again this month, now projects this as one of the worst years for new RV sales in over a decade.So who is still buying?Here is what I can tell you from 15 years in this world and from what I saw last week in Hocking Hills. The people who are still writing checks for new RVs, right now, in the worst market in a decade, are the people the industry seems most determined to pretend do not exist.Baby Boomers. Older Gen Xers. People who grew up reading paper maps. Making reservations by phone. Talking to strangers when they got lost. Fixing things with their hands. Navigating real uncertainty with nothing but experience and nerve.According to industry research, Americans 50 and older remain the primary customer segment for RVs. Many are retirees fulfilling long-held travel dreams, and that population is still growing as the tail end of the baby boom ages into retirement. These are people with home equity, disposable income, and something even more valuable: the time and the confidence to actually use what they buy.And yet when you look at the ads. When you watch the Go RVing campaigns. When you walk the floor of any major RV show and look at the marketing materials stacked at the booths. You see toned and trendy 30-year-olds doing yoga on the roof of a Class B. You see influencers with ring lights and perfect hair. What you do not see is the 68-year-old retired engineer who just dropped $95,000 on a new fifth wheel and is headed to Alaska.That is a real blind spot. And I think it is costing the industry real money.Here is what I saw at our Hocking Hills rally. Eighty-eight people, ranging from their 50s into their 80s. Riding bikes and e-bikes and scooters. Hiking up and down some of the most spectacular terrain in the Midwest. One of our members, a retired RV technician, got under a fellow member's trailer and repacked the wheel bearings on the spot. Another couple spent an afternoon giving scooter lessons to anyone who wanted to learn.Nobody was stuck. Nobody was panicking. When something broke, someone fixed it. When someone needed help, someone helped them. These are people who grew up problem-solving before there was an app for it. And they brought every one of those skills out here.I asked how many had bought a new RV in the past year. Eleven hands went up. Twelve if you count the man who was out on a six-mile hike at 70 years old.This is happening while the industry chases 33-year-olds with solar panels and TikTok aesthetics.I am not saying younger buyers are not important. They are the future and we need them. But the marketing case being made inside RV boardrooms right now, that the 50-plus buyer is yesterday's news, is demonstrably wrong. And in a market this soft, you cannot afford to ignore your most reliable customer.I wrote about this at length over at RVLifestyle.com. It is part of an ongoing series we have been running on RVing in the second half of life. The link is in the show notes. If today's lead story speaks to you, that post will too.STORY 2: WHO IS ACTUALLY DRIVING THE MARKETThe demographic picture of who owns and buys RVs is more complicated than the ads suggest, and it is worth understanding.The median age of RV owners has come down in recent years. Younger buyers were absolutely part of the pandemic surge. Millennials and Gen Z now represent roughly 22 percent of RV owners - the same share as Baby Boomers - which tells you something about how quickly the demographics shifted during COVID.But here is what the industry sometimes misses in that data. Younger buyers came in during a period of historically low interest rates, flush pandemic savings, and work-from-home flexibility. Those conditions no longer exist. The buyers who are proving most resilient in this market are the ones who are not dependent on 7 percent financing to make the purchase work.Industry analyst Earl Hunter Jr., founder of The Unity Folks, put it bluntly in a recent trade publication outlook piece. He said the biggest trend in the RV industry right now is, simply, lack of growth. And that the industry has not figured out why emerging demographics and nontraditional consumers have little to no interest in the RV lifestyle.That is a real problem worth solving. But while the industry works on reaching new audiences, there is a generation of experienced, well-capitalized, deeply motivated buyers out on the road right now who built this market and are still carrying it. They deserve a little more respect than a supporting role in someone else's marketing story.STORY 3: WHAT EXPERIENCED RVers ACTUALLY WANT - AND WHAT MANUFACTURERS KEEP MISSINGI want to tell you one more thing from Hocking Hills, because I think it reveals something important about the disconnect between what the industry is building and what experienced RVers actually need.During our campfire conversation, I asked people what features they most use in their current rigs. What do they love. What they would change.Nobody mentioned outdoor TVs. Not one person. This is notable because outdoor entertainment has been one of the most aggressively marketed RV features of the last several years. Manufacturers have been loading up rigs with outdoor TVs, outdoor kitchens, outdoor speakers. The assumption is that RVers want to recreate the suburban living room experience outside.Our members were out hiking six miles. They were packed into a campfire circle talking to each other. They were fixing each other's trailers. The last thing they wanted was a television.What did they talk about wanting? Better towing stability. Improved service networks. Simpler systems that do not require a software update to turn on the hot water. Quality that lasts. And dealers who actually know the products they are selling.These are people with decades of RV miles behind them. They know exactly what they need and exactly what they do not. When you have that kind of experience, you stop being impressed by features and start being impressed by reliability.The industry could learn a lot by listening more carefully to the people who have been doing this the longest....

What should every RVer carry in their first aid kit? What medical emergencies are most common on the road? And when is a health issue serious enough to seek immediate help?This week on Episode 616 of the RV Podcast, we're joined by Dr. Richard Raborn, a retired physician, lifelong RVer, and member of our RV Lifestyle Community. Dr. Raborn shares practical, real-world medical advice for RV travelers, including how to prepare for health emergencies, what medications and supplies belong in your RV, and how to stay safe when you're far from home. It's one of the most useful conversations we've had for anyone who travels by RV.We also tackle two listener questions that many RVers will relate to:• Linda and Don, both recently retired, want to buy an RV and travel the country, but their adult children think they're crazy. Jennifer explains why your late 60s may actually be the perfect time to embrace the RV lifestyle and why waiting for "someday" can be the bigger risk.• Gary from Tennessee wonders whether the 200-watt solar package on his new travel trailer really makes him "energy independent." Mike breaks down the truth about RV solar systems, batteries, inverters, and why many RV buyers are getting an unrealistic picture of what factory-installed solar can actually do.Plus, we share an update as we pack for our RVCommunity.com Summer Rally in Hocking Hills, Ohio, and talk about why the friendships formed through RVing may be the greatest benefit of the lifestyle.In this episode:✓ Dr. Richard Raborn's RV medical preparedness tips✓ What belongs in an RV first aid kit✓ How to handle medical issues on the road✓ Is 68 too old to start RVing?✓ Why RV travel may be ideal for retirees✓ The truth about RV solar marketing claims✓ Battery banks, inverters, and boondocking explained✓ RV Community updates and rally newsFor complete show notes, visit RVPodcast.com.Subscribe to our free daily newsletter and get RV tips, travel ideas, news, and inspiration delivered to your inbox every morning by 7:30 AM at RVLifestyle.com/newsletter.

From Cape Cod beaches and bike trails to practical boondocking wisdom, an independent film tour by RV, and camping trends shaped by younger travelers, this episode celebrates freedom, flexibility, and the people who make RV life meaningful.Discover why Cape Cod is more than summer crowds, with beaches, bike trails, whale watching, seafood, and shoulder season camping.  Learn practical RV advice from Gone With John on safety, budgeting, boondocking, and starting before everything feels perfect.  Hear how Jack and Claire Kennedy are taking their independent film You Are Here on tour with their family in an RV.  Understand how younger campers, glamping, events, and device-free connection are shaping the future of campgrounds. Discover RV travel on the Cape with Liz Di Giralamo from the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce – from seafood and beaches to bike trails, whale watching, and shoulder season stays.John Kaufman from Gone With John provides practical advice from more than 40 years of RV travel, including safety routines, budgeting, boondocking, and why new RVers should not wait for perfection.Jack and Claire Kennedy discuss their independent film You Are Here and how they're taking it on a 25-city RV tour with kids, dogs, and a whole lot of creative hustle.Plus,  campground consultant Sandy Ellison shares trends in younger campers, glamping, themed weekends, and the growing desire to disconnect from devices and reconnect in person.Get Complete Show Notes & Full Transcripthttps://podcast.rvlife.com/rvlife161/Connect & Learn Morehttps://facebook.com/rvlifepodcast/https://instagram.com/rvlifepodcast/https://www.facebook.com/groups/rvlifemovementSpecial  Discount Codes: Click Link & Use Code* RV LIFE Pro  25% off at check out

What happens when trusted RV influencers, battery manufacturers, dealers, and content creators collide?In this week's RV Lifestyle Podcast News Edition, Mike Wendland takes a deep dive into two of the most talked-about controversies in the RV industry right now, including the Battle Born Batteries lawsuit against popular YouTube reviewer Will Prowse and the growing questions surrounding the Wingman Wisdom/Bish's RV dispute.But this episode goes beyond the headlines.Mike shares his perspective after more than 40 years in journalism, examining the growing influence of sponsored content, affiliate marketing, hidden conflicts of interest, and why RV consumers need to be more careful than ever about who they trust online.Also in this episode:• Battle Born Batteries maker Dragonfly Energy sues YouTube creator Will Prowse• Questions surrounding transparency and influencer compensation• The Wingman vs. Bish's RV controversy and conflict of interest concerns• Why disclosure and trust matter in today's RV media landscape• The surprising leadership shakeup at Lippert Components and what it may mean for the RV industry• New economic data showing the RV lifestyle now contributes an astonishing $159 billion annually to the U.S. economyThis is one of the most thought-provoking RV News Editions we've ever produced, touching on issues that affect every RVer who relies on online reviews, recommendations, and industry reporting.???? Subscribe to our free daily RV newsletter:RVLifestyle.com/newsletterNew RV tips, travel ideas, campground discoveries, gear recommendations, and RV industry news delivered to your inbox every morning by 7:30 AM.

Explore four-season RV travel in Maine, support for retired RVers at Escapees CARE, mail management for full-timers, and trusted RV owner education.Explore Maine's coastline, mountains, lakes, forests, and four-season camping with Kathy Dyer from the Maine Campground Owners Association. Discover how Escapees CARE helps retired RVers age in place, recover, and stay supported while living in their own RVs. Learn how Vern Six turned full-time RV mail headaches into Circle 6 Mail Drop, a flexible mail service built for travelers. Hear why Mark Polk of RV Education 101 says trusted, human RV training still matters for safety, maintenance, and confidence.Kathy Dyer from the Maine Campground Owners Association shares why Maine is more than a summer destination, with coastal camping, mountains, lakes, forests, rustic parks, resorts, and even winter RVing.Dave Condit and Crystal Saulters explain how Escapees CARE in Livingston, Texas supports retired RVers who want to age in place, recover from surgery, or transition safely while staying in their own RVs.Vern Six discusses mail management when full-time RVing and how Circle 6 Mail Drop helps travelers receive, scan, forward, shred, and manage mail from the road.Mark Polk of RV Education 101 talks about nearly 27 years of consumer RV training, online courses, trusted technical education, and why real-world expertise still matters.Get Complete Show Notes & Full Transcripthttps://podcast.rvlife.com/rvlife160/Connect & Learn Morehttps://facebook.com/rvlifepodcast/https://instagram.com/rvlifepodcast/https://www.facebook.com/groups/rvlifemovementSpecial  Discount Codes: Click Link & Use Code* RV LIFE Pro  25% off at check out

From van festivals and healing journeys to building a business on the road and turning RV influence into products, this episode explores how community, resilience, and entrepreneurship shape modern RV life.Discover how VanFest brings van lifers, skoolies, and nomads together to build real community on the East Coast. Hear how one RVer navigates serious cancer treatment while staying mobile, organized, and committed to life on the road. Learn what it looks like to build a virtual assistant business from scratch while living full-time in an RV. Get an inside look at how Matt Foxcroft is growing his RV brand from reviews into nationwide product lines.John talks with Lance Wilkinson, founder of VanFest, about building community through van gatherings along the East Coast. It is a look at how a simple event became a reunion point for nomads of every kind.Then Jim and Rene sit down with Keith Wadsworth, who shares how cancer changed his life and led him into full-time RVing. His story is honest, practical, and deeply inspiring for anyone facing health challenges on the road.Rose and Glynn talk with Kelsie Rozendaal about launching a virtual assistant business while living full-time in an RV and caregiving at home. She offers a real-time look at entrepreneurship in the messy middle.Bob wraps up with Matt Foxcroft of Matt's RV Reviews, who explains how he turned audience trust into a growing product business. It is a fascinating look at content, retail, and influence in the RV space.Get Complete Show Notes & Full Transcripthttps://podcast.rvlife.com/rvlife159/Connect & Learn Morehttps://facebook.com/rvlifepodcast/https://instagram.com/rvlifepodcast/https://www.facebook.com/groups/rvlifemovementSpecial  Discount Codes: Click Link & Use Code* RV LIFE Pro  25% off at check out

We've made a lot of RV mistakes over the years… but these eight? They cost us a jaw-dropping $26,000.In this episode, we're getting real and sharing the costly, embarrassing, and sometimes downright scary mistakes we've made on the road, from a $16,000 fuel disaster to a tailgate crunch, a campsite mishap, and one very icy near-disaster that could have ended much worse.The truth is, none of these were bad luck. Every single one was preventable.If you're new to RVing, or even if you've been doing it for years, these lessons could save you thousands of dollars, a whole lot of stress, and maybe even your safety.Here's what we cover:• The $16,000 fueling mistake that forced us to replace our truck• A simple hookup error that cost $7,000 in seconds• Why rushing into a campsite can cost you big• The embarrassing backing mistake in front of a crowd• How ignoring the weather almost tipped our fifth wheel• Why driving too far leads to costly decisions• The checklist mistake that shattered a window• The fuel habit that nearly left us strandedAnd the big takeaway? RVing isn't hard… but it is unforgiving if you're not paying attention.Learn from our mistakes so you don't have to pay for them.Also in this episode"Travel tips to make your next trip smootherOur RV Question of the Week, with a practical answer you can use right away to save on fuel costs (especially diesel)A featured RV destination to inspire your next adventure- The Great Lakes Shoreline TourRESOURCES MENTIONED:The RV Trip Dashboard app we made - https://rvlifestyle.com/tripdashboard Our May 14 workshop on Fixing Problems on the Road - https://rvlifestyle.com/workshopDeparture Day Checklist - https://rvlifestyle.com//DepartureAppThe Great Lakes Shoreline Travel Guide - https://rvlifestyle.com/tripdashboardhttps://gasguddy.comhttps://gasguru.comhttps://truckerpath.comhttps://rvlifestyle.com/tripdashboardGet a free quote from Wholesale Warranties: https://wholesalewarranties.com/rvlif... Find unique overnight spots at farms, ranches, wineries, and more - use code RVLDEAL for 40% off: https://RVLifestyle.com/rvovernights

Travel season is here — and so is $6 diesel. This week's Monday News Edition covers five stories that every RV traveler needs to hear before they hitch up and head out.What we cover this week:Fuel Prices: The Surge That Could Change Your Summer Plans National diesel is at $5.62 and climbing. Regular gas jumped 34 cents in a single week — the biggest weekly run-up of the year. Real RVers are already shortening trips and canceling plans. Mike breaks down the numbers and gives practical advice for budgeting your 2026 travel season.Boundary Waters: A Historic Public Lands Decision For the first time in American history, Congress used the Congressional Review Act to overturn a public land protection order — lifting a 20-year mining ban near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in Minnesota. No mine is being built tomorrow, but the legal precedent is one every camper and public lands user should understand.Theodore Roosevelt National Park Goes Cashless As of May 1, cash is no longer accepted at TRNP campgrounds. Reservations through Recreation.gov are now required. If you have a trip planned to North Dakota this season, here is what changed and what you need to do before you arrive.A Chinese Company Just Reinvented the RV The Feixiang "Flying RV" looks like a normal compact motorhome on the road. Park it, hit a button, and the entire upper level rises on hydraulic legs — doubling the living space from 200 to nearly 400 square feet. Mike watched the video twice. Links are in the show notes.Camping World Q1 Results: Two Trends Worth Watching Revenue hit $1.35 billion, but the real story is buried in the details. CEO Matt Wagner used the phrase "K-shaped economy" to describe what he is seeing at dealerships right now — and a new Costco partnership is about to open a customer pipeline no other RV dealer has.All stories are sourced and linked below.Links and Show Notes:RV Trip Planning Dashboard: https://rvlifestyle.com/tripdashboardLive Workshop - How to Handle RV Problems on the Road Fast (May 14, 7PM Eastern, $10): https://rvlifestyle.com/workshopAAA Gas Prices: https://gasprices.aaa.comBoundary Waters Mining Decision: https://www.eenews.net/articles/trump-signs-resolution-favoring-mining-near-boundary-waters/Theodore Roosevelt NP Cashless Notice: https://www.nps.gov/thro/learn/news/theodore-roosevelt-national-park-to-move-to-cashless-fee-collection-starting-may-1.htmFeixiang Two-Story RV Video: https://rvbusiness.com/video-chinese-company-built-a-2-story-transforming-rv/Camping World Q1 Results: https://rvbusiness.com/camping-worlds-wagner-pleased-with-q1-performance/Subscribe for new episodes every Monday and Wednesday. Monday: News Edition - the stories shaping RV travel right now. Wednesday: Stories from the Road - tips, destinations, and the RV lifestyle.The RV Lifestyle Podcast is the longest-running RV lifestyle podcast in the United States. Hosted by Mike Wendland, an 18-time Emmy Award-winning journalist, every story is sourced, fact-checked, and told straight.RVLifestyle.com | RVPodcast.com | RVCommunity.com

From a campground revival in upstate New York to smarter towing, RV dealership growth, and vintage Airstream restoration, this episode delivers practical insight, business perspective, and a strong reminder that craftsmanship and community still matter in RV life.Discover how a new owner is renovating a classic New York campground, building community, and creating rally weekends for modern RVers.  Learn practical towing advice on fifth wheels, sway control, hitch setup, and the maintenance mistakes that can cause major trouble.  Hear how one Canadian dealership grew through customer-first service and why destination camping is rising again.  See why vintage Airstream owners wait years for expert restorations that bring craftsmanship and old trailers back to life.John talks with John Thatcher about buying Shady Oaks Camping Resort in Plattsburgh, New York, renovating an older campground, and building a strong seasonal camping community.Then Jim and Rene sit down with towing expert Dave Helgeson for practical advice on fifth wheels versus travel trailers, sway, hitch setup, and must-do brake and bearing maintenance.Rose and Glynn speak with Keith Barrick about growing one of Canada's fastest-growing RV dealerships, customer-first sales, and launching a new destination resort project.Plus, Bob talks with Jim Roy of Silver Moose Restorations about custom Airstream rebuilds, long waitlists, and the craftsmanship behind every restoration.Get Complete Show Notes & Full Transcripthttps://podcast.rvlife.com/rvlife158/Connect & Learn Morehttps://facebook.com/rvlifepodcast/https://instagram.com/rvlifepodcast/https://www.facebook.com/groups/rvlifemovementSpecial  Discount Codes: Click Link & Use Code* RV LIFE Pro  25% off at check out

Ever wonder what really goes on behind the scenes at an RV dealership? This week, Mike and Jennifer sit down with Nick Schmidt of Sunshine State RVs for a hilarious and eye-opening conversation about the wildest, most unbelievable customer stories you'll ever hear. "Crazy RV Buyers" - you have to hear these to believe them.Plus: Jennifer shares practical tips on keeping your RV bathroom fresh (hint: it all starts with water). Mike and Jennifer highlight one of America's most peaceful and historic road trips - the Natchez Trace Parkway, 440 miles of slow, scenic, billboard-free driving from Nashville to Natchez, Mississippi. And they answer a listener question from Matt and Becky in California: how do you run your air conditioner without tripping your RV breakers?In this episode:Crazy RV Buyer stories with dealer Nick Schmidt of Sunshine State RVsJennifer's RV Know-How: keeping your black tank and bathroom odor-freeTrip of the Week: the Natchez Trace Parkway, RV-friendly and big-rig approvedQ&A: managing 30-amp power so your A/C doesn't kill your microwave and coffee makerPlanning a Natchez Trace trip? We've driven it from both ends and put everything into a complete 7-day RV travel guide - campgrounds, stops, mileposts, and more: https://RVLifestyle.com/natcheztraceJoin the RV Lifestyle Community - ad-free, twice-weekly livestreams, workshops, rallies, and thousands of fellow RVers: https://RVCommunity.comGet a free quote from Wholesale Warranties: https://wholesalewarranties.com/rvlifestyleFind unique overnight spots at farms, ranches, wineries, and more - use code RVLDEAL for 40% off: https://RVLifestyle.com/rvovernightsShow notes and more: https://RVPodcast.com

Jennifer and I just spent a week doing hands-on reviews of six small motorhomes - Class Bs and compact Class Cs. And I have some things to say about what they cost. Strong things. Things that have been building for a while. We are going there today - including a hard look at the manufacturers who are trying to capture the low end of this market with rigs that are, frankly, not worth what people are paying for them.Then - tariffs. On April 6th, new steel and aluminum duties took effect. And if you thought that Winnebago or that Newmar was already out of reach - this story is not going to make you feel better.And we close with a story about 193 million acres of public land and a federal agency reorganization that could change how - and whether - you access your favorite camping territory.Check out RVCommunity.com for a no ads, hassle free online community made up of real RVers.Get our Trip Planning Bundle - 4 apps in one money-saving bundle - RVLifestyle.com//WebAppBundleSee the transctipt tab for complet6e shownotes, lins and sources to everything in this episode.

From the 3,000-mile Great River Road adventure to smarter Pacific Northwest RV planning, healthier habits on the road, and a bold new electric trailer concept, this episode blends travel inspiration, practical lifestyle advice, and a look at where RV innovation may be headed next.Explore the Great River Road and how RVers can turn a 10-state Mississippi route into a flexible trip full of food, history, and river towns.Learn why the Pacific Northwest deserves more time on your itinerary, plus practical tips for weather, mountain passes, and planning.Hear how Jake and Sarah of Active RV Life built a wellness platform to help RVers stay strong enough to enjoy the lifestyle.Get a first look at Evo Trex and its power-generating PG5 trailer, designed to blend electric camping, backup power, and active towing assist.John talks with Alan Hamry about the Great River Road, a 3,000-mile route following the Mississippi River through 10 states, packed with river towns, scenic drives, food, music, and history.Then Jim and Rene welcome back Brooks Smothers of RV Out West to share why the Pacific Northwest is one of the most rewarding RV regions in the country, and how to plan for weather, reservations, and mountain travel.Rose and Glynn sit down with Jake and Sarah of Active RV Life to discuss the health challenges many RVers face, and how they built a business around helping people stay mobile, capable, and consistent on the road.Plus, Bob talks with Stella Qin of Evo Trex about the PG5, a futuristic trailer concept combining electric capability, onboard power generation, and a new approach to off-grid camping and towing.Get Complete Show Notes & Full Transcripthttps://podcast.rvlife.com/rvlife157/Connect & Learn Morehttps://facebook.com/rvlifepodcast/https://instagram.com/rvlifepodcast/https://www.facebook.com/groups/rvlifemovementSpecial  Discount Codes: Click Link & Use Code* RV LIFE Pro  25% off at check out

Travel inspiration, roadside kindness, entrepreneurial reinvention, and industry innovation all come together in this episode of the RV LIFE Podcast.Explore why 2026 is the once-in-a-lifetime year to drive Route 66, as the legendary “Mother Road” celebrates its 100th anniversary with events and celebrations across the historic highway.Meet a skoolie couple known as the “Angels of the Highway” who travel the country offering donation-based roadside assistance through their nonprofit.Hear how one solo RVer reinvented her life at 62, learning to tow an Airstream, working remotely, and building new income streams through travel writing and photography.Discover how mobile RV service and technical education are evolving, with programs helping more women build careers in the RV industry.John talks with Alan Wininger about the upcoming Route 66 Centennial, the history behind America's most famous highway, and how RVers can plan their own trip along the nearly 2,500-mile journey from Chicago to Santa Monica.Then Jim and Rene share the remarkable story of Martian and Mouse, founders of Journey of a Spirit's Mechanic, a nonprofit providing donation-based roadside assistance to stranded travelers while living full-time in their skoolie and spreading kindness across the country.Rose and Glynn sit down with Deborah Dennis, a solo RVer who began RVing at 62 with no towing experience while working remotely as a UX designer, and who has since expanded into travel writing, photography, and other creative pursuits on the road.Plus, Bob chats with Jessica Ryder, founder of Pull Through Sites Mobile RV Service and a board member of the RV Women's Alliance, about the rapid growth of mobile RV repair, technical education programs for women, and the new “Chassis to Classy” project building a custom RV designed and assembled by women.Get Complete Show Notes & Full Transcripthttps://podcast.rvlife.com/rvlife156/Connect & Learn Morehttps://facebook.com/rvlifepodcast/https://instagram.com/rvlifepodcast/https://www.facebook.com/groups/rvlifemovementSpecial  Discount Codes: Click Link & Use Code* RV LIFE Pro  25% off at check out

Gas prices are spiking - but are RV travelers actually cutting back? We asked our community, got more than 300 responses, and the numbers tell a surprising story. Plus: the RV loan trap that is costing buyers thousands without them knowing it, why Winnebago's latest earnings report matters to every RV owner and buyer, a behind-the-scenes look at the company that builds the insides of your RV and just invested seven figures in a giant design studio, and a new Washington State law that finally clears up a legal headache for fifth-wheel owners.In this episode:The RV Loan Trap: how dealer financing really works, and how to protect yourselfWinnebago is back in the black - and here is why that matters to youPatrick Industries debuts a massive digital design studio in ElkhartWashington State fixes the fifth-wheel length measurement messOur community fuel price poll results: nearly two-thirds are not cutting backAll sources and show notes are at RVPodcast.com.Subscribe for two new episodes every week - the Monday News Edition and Wednesday Stories from the Road.Ready to plan your next adventure? Our RV Lifestyle Trip Planning Dashboard gives you everything in one place - routes, budgets, campgrounds, and checklists. One-time $29, no subscription. RVLifestyle.com/tripdashboard

This week on the RV Lifestyle Podcast News Edition, we are covering the stories that actually matter to your life on the road - and we are not pulling punches.TARIFF CHAOS IS HITTING YOUR NEXT RV We dig deep into the regulatory whiplash that is hammering RV manufacturers right now. It starts with a piece of wood you have never heard of - lauan plywood - and expands into a full picture of how cascading tariffs on steel, aluminum, and imported materials are forcing manufacturers to make pricing decisions in the dark. We also cover the composite alternatives some builders are quietly pivoting toward, and why this mess may actually change how RVs are built for years to come.A FLORIDA FAMILY'S RV EXPLODED. HERE'S WHAT EVERY RVer NEEDS TO DO RIGHT NOW. A 32-foot travel trailer in Lecanto, Florida exploded earlier this month, sending two adults and two children to trauma centers with severe burns. The cause is still under investigation. We use this story to share a number that should stop every RV owner cold - how many RV fires happen in this country every single year - and walk you through a practical spring safety checklist you need to complete before your first trip of the season.THE WORLD IS A MESS. AMERICANS ARE GOING CAMPING. Despite economic uncertainty, trade war anxiety, and a broad pullback in international travel, campground operators across the country are reporting strong advance bookings heading into summer. We tell you why right now is actually a great time to be an RVer - and why you need to book your summer sites this week before they disappear.WE COULDN'T FIND THE RIGHT TOOL. SO WE BUILT IT. Jennifer and I looked at every trip planning app on the market - The Dyrt, Campendium, RV Life, AllStays - and none of them did what we actually needed as full-timers. So we built our own. The brand new RV Lifestyle Trip Planning Dashboard just launched this weekend. It is a web-based planning hub built from the ground up for RVers - route mapping, campground logging, your own ratings and notes, rig specs, travel journal, and a searchable history of everywhere you have ever been. All in one place. On every device you own. We tell you the whole story - and there is a full walkthrough video waiting for you at RVLifestyle.com/tripdashboard.A DEALER CLOSED ITS DOORS. CUSTOMERS CAN'T GET THEIR RVS BACK. We close with a consumer warning story out of California that we see play out in this industry several times every year. An RV dealership in Lockeford abruptly shut down, and customers are now telling the San Joaquin County Sheriff's Office they cannot recover their money - or in some cases their own rigs. We walk you through the warning signs that were publicly visible before this happened, and give you a practical checklist for vetting any dealer before you hand over a dollar or a set of keys.LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:RV Lifestyle Trip Planning Dashboard: https://RVLifestyle.com/tripdashboardRVCommunity.com membership: https://RVCommunity.comRV Industry Association tariff updates: https://www.rvia.org/news-insights/latest-tariff-developmentsU.S. Fire Administration RV Fire Data: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/statistics/reports/where-fires-occur/snapshot-rv-fires.htmlNational Park Service RV Fire Safety: https://www.nps.gov/articles/p52-rv-fire-safety-101.htm

Buying a new RV is exciting, but according to veteran RVer Janice Smith, your first stop shouldn't be a cross-country trek. With 34 years of experience and **16 different RVs** under her belt, Janice joins Mike and Jen to reveal her "must-do" ritual for every new rig: the **Shakedown Trip**.In this episode of *The RV Podcast*, we dive into why this short initial trip is the single most important thing you can do to save your future vacation (and your sanity). Janice shares exactly what she looks for, the common "new rig" issues she's caught, and why even the most expensive units need a trial run.### ???? In This Episode:* **Stories from the Road:** Janice Smith on the art of the "Shakedown Trip" and her 3-decade journey through 16 RVs.* **Travel Tips:** Essential advice for your next adventure.* **RV Q&A:** We answer your burning questions about the RV lifestyle.* **Destination Spotlight:** An epic guide to the **Blue Ridge Parkway**—a bucket-list drive every RVer needs to experience at least once.**Release Date:** March 18, 2026**Hosts:** Mike and Jen Wendland-### ✨ Resources & Links* **Join the RV Lifestyle Community:** https://rvcommunity.com* **RV Lifestyle Store**  https://shop.rvlifestyle.com* **RV Trip Budget Planner:**  https://rvlifestyle.com/budget*** Ultimate RV Trip Packing List Tool**  https://rvlifestyle,com/packingapp***RV Lifestyle  Guide to the Blue Ridge Parkway** https://rvlifestyle.com/blueridge**Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE and hit the ???? to join us on the road!**> "The best way to enjoy the road is to be prepared for it." — Janice Smith

From owning your RV lot instead of paying nightly rates to staying strong enough to enjoy the lifestyle, plus a behind-the-scenes look at truck camper publishing and RV comfort innovation, this episode covers smart strategy from campsite to boardroom. Explore how a luxury motorcoach resort near Nashville lets RVers purchase deeded lots with high-end amenities and rental income potential. Learn practical ways to avoid the “RV 15” and stay mobile, flexible, and consistent on the road.Hear how Truck Camper Magazine survived the Great Recession and built trust in a niche RV market.Get an industry outlook from Truma's leadership on comfort systems, market trends, and what 2026 may bring.John talks with Joey Locker about developing a luxury motorcoach resort designed for long stays, community living, and lot ownership, complete with riverfront sites, clubhouses, pickleball courts, and a managed rental pool model.Then Jim and Rene sit down with Jake and Sarah of Active RV Life to discuss fitness on the road, mobility for everyday RV tasks, injury recovery, and why consistency beats perfection when building healthy habits.Rose and Glynn speak with RV Entrepreneurs Gordon and Angela of Truck Camper Magazine about launching an online-only publication in 2007, navigating the recession, staying neutral in a product-driven space, and preparing the next generation of leadership.Plus, Bob connects with Mark Howlett, President and CEO of Truma North America, to talk about heating and hot water innovation, shifting fuel trends, truck camper growth, and cautious optimism for the RV market in 2026.Get Complete Show Notes & Full Transcripthttps://podcast.rvlife.com/rvlife155/Connect & Learn Morehttps://facebook.com/rvlifepodcast/https://instagram.com/rvlifepodcast/https://www.facebook.com/groups/rvlifemovementSpecial  Discount Codes: Click Link & Use Code* RV LIFE Pro  25% off at check out

Fuel prices are skyrocketing, a roadside favorite is under fire, and the RV industry just saw a massive sales drop.In this Monday News Edition, Mike Wendland breaks down the massive jump in diesel and gasoline prices following military strikes in the Middle East. What does a $5.00/gallon reality mean for your summer road trip? We do the math so you don't have to.Plus, we look at why Buc-ee's—the "king of the road stop"—has been handed a failing grade by the Better Business Bureau. Is the brand losing its touch with the RV community?In this episode:00:00 - Intro & RVCommunity.com01:15 - Fuel Price Hammer: The real cost of an 8,000-mile trip05:40 - Buc-ee's Flunks: Why the BBB gave them an "F"10:12 - RV Industry Crisis: New and Used sales are cratering13:25 - Major Recalls: Ford, GM, Newmar, and Grand Design (Do-Not-Drive!)17:50 - Google Maps Gemini AI: A new co-pilot for RVers?RESOURCES MENTIONED: ???? RV Budget Tool: Calculate your trip costs at RVLifestyle.com/budget ???? Join the Community: Connect with fellow RVers at RVCommunity.com ????️ Check your VIN: Stay safe at NHTSA.govSubscribe for more RV news and lifestyle tips! #RVNews #RVLifestyle #FuelPrices #Bucees #RVRecalls #RoadTrip2026

Episode 590 of the RV Podcast Stories from the Road Edition takes you back in time as we share the story of what may have been the very first RV influencer, from 50 years ago. Long before YouTube, social media, and blogs, there were travelers finding ways to tell the story of life on the road, and in this episode, we look at one of those pioneers and why his story still matters today.We also share our RV Trip of the Week to Colorado, one of the most beautiful summer RV destinations in America, with towering mountains, scenic drives, cool temperatures, and unforgettable camping experiences. And we answer a common question from RVers everywhere: How do you control sway, bounce, and that unstable feeling while driving down the road? We talk about what causes it, what gear can help, and what practical steps can make your travels safer and more comfortable.If you love RV stories, practical travel advice, and discovering the people and places that make this lifestyle so special, this episode is for you.Subscribe for more RV Lifestyle content, travel inspiration, and real-world RV advice from Mike and Jen.#RVLifestyle #RVPodcast #RVLiving #RVTravel #StoriesFromTheRoad #ColoradoRVTrip #RVTips #RVSafety

From a month-long St. Patrick's celebration in Savannah to the real costs, mindset shifts, and safety decisions that shape life on the road, this episode delivers practical insight and meaningful perspective for today's RVers.Discover why Savannah hosts one of the biggest St. Patrick's Day celebrations in the country and how RVers can experience it.Learn where RV travel costs sneak up on you and how to reduce fuel, campground, and service expenses.Hear a candid conversation about identity shifts, mindset, and rebuilding purpose after going nomadic.Understand why propane safety starts at the tank and how a shut-off valve can prevent serious emergencies.Savannah might not be the first place you think of for St. Patrick's Day, but John DiPietro and Supriya Christopher from Visit Savannah say it hosts one of the biggest celebrations in the country, with events all month and a parade that can run 4 to 6 hours.Then Jim and Rene talk with Jared Davis of RV Complete Club about the real costs of RV travel, where RVers underestimate expenses, and how simple discounts on fuel, campgrounds, and service can ease the stress.In RV Entrepreneur, Rose and Glynn sit down with Robyn and Victor Robledo of Nomads With a Purpose for an honest conversation about the identity shift that can hit when you go nomadic and the tools that helped them rebuild from the inside out.Plus, Bob wraps up with Martin Neeson, founder of GasStop, explaining why propane safety starts at the source and how a shut-off valve can add peace of mind on every trip.Get Complete Show Notes & Full Transcripthttps://podcast.rvlife.com/rvlife154/Connect & Learn Morehttps://facebook.com/rvlifepodcast/https://instagram.com/rvlifepodcast/https://www.facebook.com/groups/rvlifemovementSpecial Discount Codes: Click Link & Use Code* RV LIFE Pro 25% off at check out

This week's RV Podcast News Edition tackles five stories that cover a lot of ground, starting with a topic the rest of the RV media won't touch: the growing RV homelessness crisis.From Michigan lawmakers debating whether campgrounds can serve as housing solutions, to San Francisco banning large vehicles from city streets, to the quiet erosion of overnight parking at places like Cracker Barrel, this issue is reshaping public policy in ways that affect every RVer on the road.We also dig into a major CNBC investigation revealing how RVs have become a housing safety net in Silicon Valley, where even full-time workers are living in aging rigs on public streets because they have no other option.On the good news front, the National Park Service has officially dropped timed-entry reservation requirements at Yosemite, Arches, and Glacier for 2026. If those parks have been on your list, the reservation window is gone. We break down what that means practically and what to expect when the summer crowds arrive.We also have the full story on Leigh Tiffin's sudden resignation from Tiffin Motorhomes and his move to luxury dealer group NIRVC. He finally broke his silence this week, but the timeline tells a more complicated story: a 20-month negotiation happening behind the scenes, a plant closure affecting 140 workers, and Thor quietly consolidating control over what was once a true family brand.And we close with a look at why 2026 is shaping up to be one of the biggest RV travel years on record - and why you need to make sure your rig is ready before the campgrounds fill up. Our free Spring Prep Workshop is March 12th at 7 PM Eastern. Details and your free Spring Maintenance Book are at RVLifestyle.com/workshop.

From Route 66 Plans To Leak Dealbreakers: Big-Event Travel Strategy, RV Buying Red Flags, Holding Tank Truths, and A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Manufacturing.Planning a trip around America's 250th anniversary, the Route 66 centennial, or major World Cup events? John DiPietro talks with Woodall's Campground Magazine editor Ben Quiggle about what's coming up, why pricing and availability may get wild, and how to plan smarter by booking early, and looking beyond the most obvious campgrounds.Then, Jim and Rene sit down with master certified mobile RV technician Zeb Hahn, for a clear-eyed breakdown of what goes wrong most often in both new and used rigs. They cover repeat problem areas, what to look – and listen – for during a walk-through, the maintenance that prevents expensive damage, and the dealbreakers that should make any buyer walk away.For The RV Entrepreneur segment, Rose and Glynn welcome Ricky Stewart from Unique Camping + Marine for a surprisingly fun and very useful conversation about holding tanks, and the business behind this leading additive manufacturer. Ricky explains why some popular “old school” advice can backfire, what actually causes smells and sensor issues, and why their number one recommendation is simpler than people think: use more water.Bob Zagami wraps the episode with Willie Miller, General Manager at Forest River Plant 410, sharing what it looks like to expand product lines while protecting quality, how manufacturers think about the customer journey, and why follow-through after the sale matters more than the branding on the front cap.Get Complete Show Notes & Full Transcripthttps://podcast.rvlife.com/rvlife153/Connect & Learn Morehttps://facebook.com/rvlifepodcast/https://instagram.com/rvlifepodcast/https://www.facebook.com/groups/rvlifemovementBe A Guest or  Share Your Story!https://podcast.rvlife.com/contactSpecial Discount Codes: Click Link & Use Code* RV LIFE Pro 25% off at check out

Winter RVing can be magical until it's not. With this winter edition of the RV LIFE Podcast, we dig into the hidden and obvious challenges cold weather brings. Learn how to prevent road salt damage, frozen systems, power drain and water management. Hear practical, experience-based advice to help you prevent costly winter mistakes and stay comfortable in cold conditions.Plus: Get a real-world look at building and marketing an app-based business on the road. And hear what's ahead for RVing as new audiences discover the lifestyle.Get Complete Show Notes & Full Transcripthttps://podcast.rvlife.com/rvlife152/Connect & Learn Morehttps://facebook.com/rvlifepodcast/https://instagram.com/rvlifepodcast/https://www.facebook.com/groups/rvlifemovementBe A Guest or  Share Your Story!https://podcast.rvlife.com/contactSpecial Discount Codes: Click Link & Use Code* RV LIFE Pro 25% off at check out

As he approaches his 91st birthday, legendary broadcaster Mort Crim proves that curiosity and adventure do not retire.Last summer, while in the middle of a cross-country RV journey, we caught up with Mort as he traveled America in his Class B Winnebago Travato with his cat Groucho. That journey is now complete, and in this follow-up conversation in RV Podcast Episode 578, Mort reflects on what the road revealed about America, aging, grief, and healing.Mort shares how seeing the country firsthand, through campgrounds, small towns, and everyday conversations, gave him a very different perspective than the one often portrayed in the media. He also speaks openly about how RVing helped him work through the grieving process after losing his wife, providing space, movement, and purpose during a difficult season of life.Now, with that chapter behind him, Mort is already making plans for a busy 2026 RV travel season, proof that living small and moving often can keep life expanding at any age.This is a thoughtful, deeply human conversation about resilience, perspective, and why the RV Lifestyle can change far more than your address.Also this week, Mike and Jen answer your RV Questions, including how much snow an RV roof can handle.

From Tank Myths To Life On Wheels: Real-World RV Tips, Money Mindset Shifts, And Campground TrendsAttending RV shows this year? Discover what RVers really need to know before attending. John DiPietro shares practical tips for getting the most out of any RV show without getting overwhelmed. Got tank odors? Jim and Rene sit down with Ricky and Chris from Unique Camping + Marine for an honest, occasionally hilarious conversation about holding tank care, common myths, and why this topic matters more than most RVers realize.In our RV Entrepreneur segment, Rose and Glynn talk with executive coach Tim Winders, who explains how losing everything reshaped his definition of success and led to full-time RV life. Industry expert Bob Zagami wraps up this episode with Marsha Galvin from Normandy Farms Resort, reflecting on the camping season and what guests and campgrounds are focused on next.Packed with real-world insight, this episode is all about helping you RV smarter, easier, and with fewer surprises.Get Complete Show Notes & Full Transcripthttps://podcast.rvlife.com/rvlife151/Connect & Learn Morehttps://facebook.com/rvlifepodcast/https://instagram.com/rvlifepodcast/https://www.facebook.com/groups/rvlifemovementBe A Guest or  Share Your Story!https://podcast.rvlife.com/contactSpecial Discount Codes: Click Link & Use Code* RV LIFE Pro 25% off at check out

Take your RV dreams to Europe, get real-world solo travel advice, explore expedition-ready vans, and catch up on key RV industry trends.This week on the RV LIFE Podcast, John talks with Kay and Nick Flint from Fantasy RV Tours about guided RV trips in Europe and Scandinavia. Learn how renting locally, following a scouted route, and traveling with a group can remove the stress of 220-volt power, tight fuel stations, and multiple currencies—while adding new friendships along the way.Then Jim and Rene sit down with solo full-time RVer and travel agent Katy Jones of Unplugged Travel. She shares lessons from years of work camping in national parks, how she rescues clients when trips go sideways, and why having a human “wizard behind the curtain” still beats DIY and AI for winter storage, security, and long-stay getaways in places like Mexico or Costa Rica.Next, Rose & Glynn talk with 27 North founder Pavel Bozovic about premium overland rig builds, from marine-grade components and carbon fiber shells to obsessive attention to weight, crosswinds, and braking distance. Pavel offers a simple RV shopping test—call a brand's helpline—and a candid take on entrepreneurship: why some people are better off as a great number two.John and Bob close the episode with RV industry news, including RVTI's push to train the next generation of technicians, KOA's latest growth and new builds, Italian-built Wingham motorhomes entering the U.S., and Grand Design's new Omega frame technology.Guided travel, solo inspiration, premium rigs, and RV industry insights—all in one episode.Get Complete Show Notes & Full Transcripthttps://podcast.rvlife.com/rvlife150/Connect & Learn Morehttps://facebook.com/rvlifepodcast/https://instagram.com/rvlifepodcast/https://www.facebook.com/groups/rvlifemovementBe A Guest or  Share Your Story!https://podcast.rvlife.com/contactSpecial Discount Codes: Click Link & Use Code* RV LIFE Pro 25% off at check out

Ever wondered what campground owners really think of your camping style? Third-generation owner Galen Bailey reveals what makes an ideal camper—from check-in etiquette and site boundaries to speed limits, lights, noise, and trash. Rose and Glynn talk with Alex and Jackie of “Where Is Ajax?” about financial independence, seasons of travel, and their Oh Hi Cards app. Jim and Rene meet the creators of App My Community, born from one chaotic camping trip. Then John and Bob close with the latest RV industry headlines, dealer trends, and new products, followed by an interview with RV Business publisher Rick Kessler on what's shaping the market for 2025 and the stories the RV world should be watching next.Practical campsite etiquette, smarter travel planning, inspiring RV stories, and the latest industry updates—all packed into this episode.Get Complete Show Notes & Full Transcripthttps://podcast.rvlife.com/rvlife148/Connect & Learn Morehttps://facebook.com/rvlifepodcast/https://instagram.com/rvlifepodcast/https://www.facebook.com/groups/rvlifemovementBe A Guest, Give Feedback, or Share Your Story!https://podcast.rvlife.com/contactSpecial Discount Codes: Click Link & Use Code* RV LIFE Pro 25% off at check out

In our conversation of the week, we have the story of an RV accident during a dream trip that took a sudden, life-changing turn, and the lessons one couple learned on the road could help every RVer travel safer and wiser. You can watch the video version from our RV Lifestyle YouTube Channel by clicking the player below. If you prefer an audio-only podcast, you can hear us through your favorite podcast app or listen now through the player below. Podcasts on Christmas Eve next week and New Year's Eve.. so you can listen or watch as you work through your Holiday preparations. If you want to make 2026 your best RV year ever, this is the moment to do something different. Make 2026 Your Best RV Year Ever We want to invite you to join us inside the RV Lifestyle Community at RVCommunity.com. Now, yes, it is a subscription. And that is exactly why it works. No ads.No spam.No algorithms deciding what you see.No influencers pushing the latest gadget you do not need. Instead, you get authentic resources, exclusive content you will not find anywhere else, and genuine friendships with people who actually understand why someone would happily spend December in an RV in Indiana, bundled up, watching Christmas lights. And 2026 is shaping up to be a big year. We have a brand new app, more free resources for members, expanded meetups across the country, new tools, new courses, new workshops ( our first one is Jan 1 on how to attend and shop at an RV Show) and new ways to connect that we are really excited about. The community keeps growing, but the culture stays the same. Friendly, helpful, drama free, and full of real RVers who get it. Most importantly, it is about connection. Because the RV lifestyle is not just about the rig you drive or the places you go. It is about the people you meet along the way, even if that way happens to include an Arctic blast rolling through Amish country. If you are ready to make 2026 your most confident, connected, and enjoyable RV year yet, we would love to welcome you. Join us at RVCommunity.com. We will save you a seat by the campfire. RV CONVERSATION OF THE WEEK - The RV Accident That Changed Everything Andy and Joanne Larrimore are longtime RVers who, earlier this year, set out on what was supposed to be their biggest adventure yet. They packed up their Class A, hooked up their toad, and rolled out of southeast Massachusetts bound for Florida. The trip started exactly the way RV dreams are supposed to start, sunshine, family time, and a memorable stop at Disney with loved ones in Orlando. But a couple of weeks in, everything changed. Andy came down with a serious upper respiratory infection. Then word came that Joanne's mom, who was in a nursing home, was not doing well. They made the tough decision to cut the trip short and head back north. Somewhere in South Carolina, the unthinkable happened. Andy blacked out behind the wheel, and their rig crashed. Both Andy and Joanne were med-lifted separately to the hospital. They suffered serious injuries, and the road to recovery has not been easy. Thankfully, they are both doing much better today. And here is the part of their story that really matters, they are not done with the RV lifestyle. The Larrimores have chosen to share what they went through, what they learned, and the lessons that could help every one of us travel safer and smarter. This is a powerful conversation about resilience, preparedness, and why even life-changing setbacks do not have to mean the end of the road. Listen or watch their interview in the podcast players above. This part of the podcast is sponsored by RVOvernights, where you can stay free at farms, wineries, and attractions across the country. Go to RVLifestyle.com/rvovernights and use the promo code “RVLDEAL” to save 40% of the already low $49 annual fee. RV NEWS OF THE WEEK ​Forget Candy Bars—This Iowa Mall Vending Machine Dispenses Starlink​ So we've heard of getting a can of soda or maybe a Snickers bar from a vending machine, but a Starlink system?? Yet that is exactly what happened in Iowa! A self-serve vending machine quietly appeared at a shopping mall's food court in Des Moines. It is designed to dispense a standard Starlink dish and accessories, including mounts and the Wi-Fi router. Word is that more are coming. ​No More Reservations: Glacier National Park Rethinks Summer Access​ This is a big story for fans of Glacier National Park… Reservations will NOT be needed at Glacier for the summer of 2026. Why, because the National Parks Service says the system did not work as planned. The reservation system, started four years ago, was supposed to cut down on long afternoon lines by requiring people to register to enter between 7 am and 4 pm. What happened is mid-day traffic was much better, but the early morning crowds trying to beat the registration time became problematic, causing new issues. So now the popular park is doing away with reservations altogether. ​Trump on the 2026 Park Pass? Lawsuit Says Not So Fast​ Okay… we try to steer away from politics but this is a story we couldn't ignore. An environmental group is suing to remove President Donald Trump's picture from the 2026 National Park Service's Annual Pass. The 2026 Annual Pass features a picture of President George Washington and President Trump and the number 250 for the country's 250th birthday. The Center for Biological Diversity's lawsuit claims the design violates a law that requires the America the Beautiful pass to feature a photo taken on public lands that won an annual photo contest. The Secretary of the Interior says the photo winner will be on the pass for foreign visitors, while Trump's picture will be on the one for U.S. residents. Stay tuned.  ​Only in Gatlinburg: Black Bear Steals the Show at Christmas Parade​ Did you hear about what happened as crowds gathered to watch the Gatlinburg Fantasy of Lights 50th Annual Christmas Parade last week?  A lone black bear meandered in. The black bear casually cut through the crowds and walked down the parade route for a bit, as stunned onlookers sat along the curb watching in disbelief. Some visitors captured video - after all, this is not something you see every day!  ​Buc-ee's Goes Big Again: 17 New Mega Stops on the Way​ The ultimate road-trip stop, Buc-ee's, is planning to open 17 new locations across the country over the next few years. In 2026, the gigantic convenience store and fuel stop plans to open locations in Huber Heights, Ohio, San Marcos, Texas, and Goodyear, Arizona. Eight more stops are planned for 2027, five for 2028, and one for 2031. The Texas-based (and Texas-sized!) company is a popular destination for many RVers, and soon there will be even more locations along your route This part of the podcast is sponsored by Wholesale Warranties, where you can get the best deal on extended warranty coverage for your RVs. Starting January 1st, all RVs are considered one model year older, which means pricing and eligibility for warranty protection will change. Save money and protect your rig by signing up now. Get a free, personalized quote at wholesalewarranties.com/rvlifestyle RV QUESTION OF THE WEEK QUESTION: from Despina… In my 2023 Unity Leisure Travel Van the TV power won't turn on and the recliner controls do not work. Is this a fuse or breaker issue? Open to suggestions to fix the problem. RV connected to shore power. ANSWER: This happens a lot with RVs. It's almost always a tripped GFI plug. On the Unity, I believe it's on the side of the passenger pass-through storage area or in the bathroom. Just push in the little recessed switch between the plugs and you'll be good. QUESTION: From Larry: Why are Class B campervans so expensive? The one we want is almost $250,000. I can get a Class A for that, or a luxury fifth wheel and a brand new heavy-duty truck. I don't get it. Campervans are small. ANSWER: You're absolutely right to be scratching your head at those price tags. When you see a campervan that's basically built on a cargo van chassis hitting a quarter million dollars, it feels ridiculous, especially when you could roll into a dealership and drive out with a gorgeous 40-foot Class A motorhome for the same money. Or like you said, snag a top-of-the-line fifth wheel and a fully loaded F-350 and still have cash left over. Here's the deal: you're paying a massive premium for engineering magic in a tiny space. Think about it: those Class B builders are cramming a full bathroom with a real shower, a kitchen with actual counter space, sleeping accommodations, storage, and all your systems (electrical, plumbing, heating, cooling) into what's essentially a walk-in closet on wheels. That level of space efficiency doesn't come cheap. The other factor? Volume. The big RV manufacturers are pumping out hundreds or thousands of Class A motorhomes and fifth wheels every year. They've got economies of scale working for them. Meanwhile, Class B builders are producing these things in much smaller numbers, often with semi-custom features and higher-end components. You're not getting the mass-production discount. Plus, that Mercedes, Ford Transit or RAM ProMaster base chassis aren't exactly cheap to begin with, and then you're adding premium materials because everything has to be lightweight and compact. Those fancy European-style cabinets, that space-saving toilet, that innovative bed system: it all costs more than the standard RV stuff. And let's be honest, there's a lifestyle tax baked in too. Class B campervans became the hot ticket for a certain “van life” demographic who wants to look like they're just driving a cool van while secretly having all the amenities. That "stealth camping" capability and the ability to fit in a regular parking spot? The market will bear a premium price for those benefits. Does it make financial sense?

Get a peek behind the scenes at Quartzsite, Mexico RVing tips, new RV electrical news, and meet the Netflix actor working on the road.  This week on the RV LIFE Podcast, we're taking you behind the big tent at Quartzsite. Discover how this legendary desert gathering is like “Burning Man meets an RV show.” John DiPietro talks with Kimmy King, the woman who runs the famous Quartzsite Sports, Vacation & RV Show, now celebrating 43 years.Then we head south of the border for practical, eye-opening tips on RVing in Mexico with longtime caravan leader Paul Beddows—covering safety, border crossings, road conditions, and what first-timers need to know.Next, Rose & Glynn chat with actress and entrepreneur Cara Ann Marie, who balances Netflix roles and her eco-friendly pet business, Doggy Do Good, all from the road. And Bob wraps up with RV electrical expert Mike Sokol, who explains a major industry safety update coming in 2026.Travel tips, lifestyle inspiration, income ideas, and essential RV news—all in one episode.Get Complete Show Notes & Full Transcripthttps://podcast.rvlife.com/rvlife148/Connect & Learn Morehttps://facebook.com/rvlifepodcast/https://instagram.com/rvlifepodcast/https://www.facebook.com/groups/rvlifemovementBe A Guest or  Share Your Story!https://podcast.rvlife.com/contactSpecial Discount Codes: Click Link & Use Code* RV LIFE Pro 25% off at check out

Traveling Robert: From a Lounge Singer to an RV YouTube Star -- ​This week on the RV Podcast, you'll meet a longtime friend who went from being a lounge singer in South Florida to an RVing YouTube star who roams the country. Our guest in the Conversation of the week is Robert Morales, aka Traveling Robert, and you'll hear the backstory to his RV Lifestyle. Also, the RV News of the Week, Audience Questions, and More.

Making RVing Simple With New Format & New VoicesThe RV LIFE Podcast is back with a new season, a fresh format, and new voices. Join Jim and Rene as they introduce merger of the RV LIFE and RV Entrepreneur shows. Our new team of co-hosts now bring you bite-sized segments on travel, lifestyle, income, and RV industry news. They welcome RVE co-hosts Rose & Glynn Willard plus industry insiders John DiPietro & Bob Zagami from The Camper Report. Meet the voices behind the mic and learn how you can share your own campfire stories this season to fulfill our common mission: To Make RVing Simple.Get Complete Show Notes & Full Transcripthttps://podcast.rvlife.com/rvlife147/Connect & Learn Morehttps://podcast.rvlife.com/abouthttps://facebook.com/rvlifepodcast/https://instagram.com/rvlifepodcast/https://www.facebook.com/groups/rvlifemovementBe A Guest or  Share Your Story!https://podcast.rvlife.com/contactSpecial Discount Codes: Click Link & Use Code* RV LIFE Pro 25% off at check out

This week on the RV Podcast: Liz Amazing on RV Defects and the Fight for Consumer Rights We interview Liz Amazing, who has one mission, protect RV owners and hold the industry accountable, no excuses, no hiding, she exposes it all. While the government has closed, the National Parks have mostly stayed open…but at a growing cost Why you do NOT want to cancel your RV insurance while the rig is in storage for the winter All this plus the RV News of the Week and your questions coming up in Episode #570 of the RV Podcast You can watch the video version from our RV Lifestyle YouTube Channel by clicking the player below. If you prefer an audio-only podcast, you can hear us through your favorite podcast app or listen now through the player below. [power press] RV CONVERSATION OF THE WEEK - with Liz Amazing on RV Defects Liz Amazing is a consumer advocate with a YouTube Channel dedicated to helping people who face significant problems with their new RV. Liz regularly features heartbreaking stories of individuals and couples who poured their savings into a new rig only to face one major repair after another, and run into brick walls when trying to get the problems fixed.  Liz lets RV owners tell their stories, sometimes through tears, then approaches the RV dealers and manufacturers seeking solutions, which she often receives. Through her work, Liz has discovered industry trends, advocates for quality improvement, and offers help to those with nowhere to go. In the crowded world of RV YouTube Influencers, Liz has carved out an important niche as a consumer advocate, and we're delighted to have her on the RV Lifestyle today as our guest.  In this conversation, we discuss the challenges faced by consumers in the RV industry involving quality issues, unregulated practices, and heartbreaking stories of buyers left with defective RVs. The discussion highlights the importance of consumer rights, the role of social media in advocacy, and tips for avoiding common pitfalls when purchasing RVs. Liz emphasizes the need for manufacturers to prioritize quality over profit and offers insights into choosing the right RV and dealer. Liz Amazing on RV Defects Takeaways: Liz Amazing transitioned from a novice camper to a leading RV advocate. She emphasizes the importance of using her platform for good. Many RV buyers face heartbreaking quality issues with their purchases. The RV industry is largely unregulated, leading to poor consumer experiences. Liz highlights the shift in manufacturing practices, prioritizing profit over quality. Social media serves as a powerful tool for consumer advocacy. Buyers often face challenges with buybacks and NDAs from manufacturers. Avoiding mass-produced RVs can reduce the chances of quality issues. Independent RV makers often provide better quality products. Liz encourages consumers to do thorough research before purchasing an RV. RV NEWS OF THE WEEK When Washington Closes, the National Parks (Mostly) Stay Open — But at What Cost? More and more stories are emerging each week of the difficulties the nation's national parks are facing during the continued federal government shutdown. Utah is spending $8,000 a day to keep the visitor centers open at its five national parks, and groups like the Zion Forever Project are collecting donations and paying to print maps, feed rangers, and keep things open for the tourists showing up. At Joshua Tree, a wildfire started in the camping area during the shutdown, but it is now contained. Pinnacles National Park had brownish water coming out of the campsites because a maintenance worker wasn't there to flush the system. The state of Colorado is paying to keep the visitor centers open at the Rocky Mountain National Park. And since none are collecting visitor entrance fees, all anticipate significant budget gaps next year.  Six Months, No Camper — So He Brought His Work to Camping Wor...

This week on the RV Podcast, we'll meet two couples who have made the RV Lifestyle a huge part of their retirement and hear how they are now living the Best Chapter Yet. Plus the RV Industry News, the Social Media Buzz, and a great question from one of our readers on where to get his rig washed. You can read, listen to, or WATCH the podcast right here...

RV LIFE Podcast Season 2 will feature new voices of seasoned RVers and industry experts. And we want to hear yours! Share your RV lifestyle tips or fun travel tales for our Campfire Stories segment! Leave your message now at https://podcast.rvlife.com/contactSpecial Discount Codes: Click Link & Use Code* RV LIFE Pro 25% off at check out

Send us a Note or Ask a question Here! Include your name and where you're from and we may just read it on an Upcoming Podcast!We dive into the great RV debate of full-time versus part-time living and share our unique perspective after experiencing both lifestyles over the past three years.• Transitioning from a 44-foot toy hauler fifth wheel to a sub-30-foot travel trailer• Weather challenges of full-time living including rain, extreme heat, and ice storms• Maintenance issues become more complicated when your home is also your transportation• Coordinating business travel creates logistical challenges when full-timing• Full-time benefits include community connections and having all your belongings with you• Part-time advantages include less stress, more relaxed travel, and easier maintenance• Finding your ideal RV lifestyle depends on whether you prioritize freedom or stability• Having a home base doesn't prevent you from traveling—we're actually traveling more now• The RV community welcomes all travel styles from weekend warriors to permanent nomadsIf you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and hit that follow button to stay connected with us.

What happens when you sell everything, move into an RV with your family, and rethink the way you approach money and freedom?Welcome to Gym Marketing Made Simple, the podcast that helps boutique gym owners attract clients, grow revenue, and simplify marketing so you can focus on what truly matters.Episode HighlightsIn this episode, Jeff Smith from Tactical Empire shares his journey of transitioning into a full-time RV lifestyle while homeschooling his four children. He opens up about financial planning, Infinite Banking, and investing in cash-flowing assets, while also showing how entrepreneurs can build wealth, strengthen family bonds, and create lasting freedom beyond their current success.Key InsightsWhy selling everything and moving into an RV became the Smith family's boldest decision.How Infinite Banking can be a cornerstone of financial freedom and legacy planning.The power of investing in cash-flowing assets versus relying on traditional programs like 401(k)s.The three pillars of Tactical Empire: power, presence, and profits.Why many entrepreneurs stagnate and how to create a clear vision for long-term growthEpisode Chapters00:00 Intro00:05 Jeff Smith's RV Lifestyle and Business Transition05:30 Challenges and Solutions for Full-Time RV Living07:26 Introduction to the Tactical Empire08:37 Financial Strategies and Infinite Banking26:19 Common Challenges Faced by Entrepreneurs 28:12 Jeff Smith's Background and Motivation28:31 Advice for Achieving Financial FreedomCall to ActionThis is the first part of a two-part series with Jeff Smith — make sure to listen, share with a friend who needs to hear it, and follow Jeff for more insights on building financial freedom and family legacy.Supporting InformationConnect with Jeff Smith: @realjeffsmith on InstagramFacebook: Jeff Smith | The Tactical EmpireThanks for tuning in to today's episode of Gym Marketing Made Simple. Stay connected for the second part of this series with Jeff, where we continue the conversation on building a life and business with purpose, profit, and freedom.

In this kickoff episode for season 2 of the RV LIFE Podcast, Jim welcomes RV LIFE founder and CEO Andy Rabinowitz to share exciting news: The RV LIFE Podcast is merging with The RV Entrepreneur Podcast. Hear the story behind the decision, a look back at each show's legacy, and what's ahead for the new combined format. From RV industry insights to travel tips and inspiring RV entrepreneur profiles, this next chapter promises to bring even more value to your RV lifestyle. Plus, Andy gives an inside look at RV LIFE's mission to make RVing simple and the tools, community, and innovations that are driving it forward.NOTE: This will take time. Please stay tuned as we refine the future of the RV LIFE Podcast to better serve you.Meanwhile, let us know what you think!RESOURCES:https://rvlife.com/magazinehttps://podcast.rvlife.comhttps://therventrepreneur.comhttps://www.rvlifenetwork.com/Special Discount Codes: Click Link & Use Code* RV LIFE Pro 25% off at check out

This week on the StressLess Camping RV Podcast, we welcome back our friends Scott and Alicia from The Route of it All, who tell us about a service to receive notifications when a campsite YOU want becomes available. You can find this week's podcast at our home on the web or wherever you enjoy getting podcasts: https://www.stresslesscamping.com/podcast/0314 The StressLess Camping podcast is a weekly RV podcast with information, tips and tricks to help every RVer and camper enjoy some StressLess Camping