The Rv Entrepreneur With Heath Padgett

What does it really mean to live the good life from the road? Full-time RVer and wellness entrepreneur Kimberly Henrie joins Jim to share how a wildfire evacuation led her family into RV life, how she blends wellness with entrepreneurship, and why balancing purpose, passion, and flexibility is key to thriving as a digital nomad.Connect & Learn Morekimberlyhenrie.comlivingthegoodlife.usalignable.com/groups/rv-entrepreneurs~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~THE RV ENTREPRENEURhttps://therventrepreneur.com~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Join the RVE community on Facebook!⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/therventrepreneurcommunity⁠Connect with RVE on all your favorite socials⁠https://therventrepreneur.com/connect⁠⁠Got questions or comments for our hosts? Leave us a voice message! ⁠⁠https://therventrepreneur.com/voicemail⁠⁠(NOTE: Audio submitted may be published on the podcast unless specifically requested otherwise.)Got a great story or tips to share with RVE Listeners? Complete our Guest Intake Form:https://therventrepreneur.com/gu

From pupil dilation research to designing custom campervans, Roberto's journey is anything but ordinary! On this episode of The RV Entrepreneur, hear how Roberto, co-founder of Vansmith, went from academia (yes, he has a PhD!) to the wild world of entrepreneurship, including co-founding Oru Kayak and the story behind its Shark Tank success. Then, discover the origins of Vansmith, the challenges of building a business amidst a pandemic, including overcoming a shop break-in and supply chain chaos, and the importance of investing in employees. Roberto shares his approach to creating raving fans, insights into the changing demands of the camper van market, and whether a custom build is the right choice for you. Plus, find out where he sees the industry going and the biggest mistakes he's learned from (including a Metaverse van token!).Connect & Learn More:https://thevansmith.comhttps://www.instagram.com/the_vansmith/Resources:Navigating the Growth Phase on the Entrepreneurial Highway with Robert & Tosha L

Running your business from the road? Legal protection isn’t optional. In this episode, Jim chats with Berkley Sweetapple —founder of a digital law firm for online entrepreneurs. Berkley reveals the most common legal missteps content creators and other nomadic entrepreneurs make and how to avoid them. Learn all about LLCs and sole propietorship, copyright vs. trademark, legal contracts, website policies, and real-life horror stories that could have been prevented. If you’ve been putting legal tasks off, this is your wake-up call.Connect & Learn Morehttps://berkleysweetapplelaw.comhttps://thebusinessstudio.comIG: @berkleysweetappleIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/berkley-sweetapple/~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~THE RV ENTREPRENEURhttps://therventrepreneur.com~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Join the RVE community on Facebook!⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/therventrepreneurcommunity⁠Connect with RVE on all your favorite socials⁠https://therventrepreneur.com/connect⁠⁠Got questions or comments for our hosts? Leave us a voice mes

Rose sits down with Leeann Moore, one of the founders of Sister Corps, a nonprofit born from the RV community that mobilizes women volunteers to support disaster relief and community service efforts across the country.Leeann shares how Sister Corps began as a grassroots response to Hurricane Harvey and evolved into a mission-driven organization built on teamwork, compassion, and grit. We dive into what it takes to lead a volunteer-based nonprofit, the emotional labor behind helping families in crisis, and how the RV lifestyle uniquely equips volunteers to show up where they’re needed most. Leeann also shares how they blend the heart of a nonprofit with the strategic mind of a business, empowering women to make a tangible difference in the world.Connect & Learn Morehttps://sister-corps.org/https://facebook.com/SisterCorpsTeam/https://youtube.com/@sistercorpsRESOURCEShttps://therventrepreneur.com/talent/

Join us as we hit the road with Jessica, the marketing and PR guru behind Jess Lifestyle Marketing! Like many of you – Jess runs her entire operation from her RV, proving that you can build a thriving business while living life on your own terms. In this episode, we dive into Jessica's journey from agency life to solopreneur success, exploring how her degrees from Valdosta State and Kent State, along with APR and CPRC credentials, have shaped her approach to marketing and PR. Learn how she helps businesses enhance their brand through tailored strategies, from crafting compelling press releases to managing online reputation. We'll uncover the advantages of working with a solopreneur, how she stays organized on the road, and her top tips for anyone considering a similar path. Plus, Jessica shares invaluable advice on navigating the ever-changing landscape of marketing and PR, and the importance of community involvement.GUEST BIO: Jess is a full-time RVer and founder of Jess Lifestyle Marketing, LLC, where she h

What started as a way to keep a roof over her head turned into one of the most recognizable RV renovation brands online. In this episode of the RVE Podcast, Cortni Armstrong - better known as The Flippin' Nomad – shares how she built a booming business by leading with authenticity, taking design risks, and learning every step of the way.Discover:The evolution of her business from Craigslist RVs to high-end custom buildsHow her Instagram presence sparked unexpected opportunities (including a Keystone + GMC partnership)The logistics of building stationary while living full-time on the roadThe not-so-glamorous realities behind the scenes of RV flippingWhy pushback is inevitable—and proof you’re doing something originalThis episode is a must-listen for anyone thinking about turning their creative passion into a lifestyle business on the road.Connect & Learn More:Instagram: @theflippingnomadWebsite: https://theflippingnomad.com~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~THE RV ENTREPRENEURhttps://therventrepreneur.com~~~~~~~~~~~

Get ready for a dynamic duo! In this episode, we're welcoming Jill Shepard and Randy to the show. Jill brings a sharp eye for detail and a wealth of experience helping businesses optimize their financial health. Currently at The Campground Marketplace, she assists campground owners with P&L clean-up, ensuring financial statements are transparent, accurate, and attractive to potential buyers. Randy complements Jill's expertise with his extensive background in business and systems process optimization across a variety of industries, including resorts, campgrounds, and more. He's a master at simplifying complex workflows and implementing internet-based software tools, even pioneering tablet usage in the workplace! Together, Jill and Randy offer a unique blend of financial acumen and operational efficiency, making them the perfect guests to discuss improving campground profitability.Connect & Learn More:https://popknowscampgrounds.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/jill-shepard-a53b737b/RESOURCESRVE Episode

What if learning something new didn’t require hours of reading or memorization? In this episode, Jim chats with Kevin Wensley, sailor, RVer, and the marketing mind behind Stikky Books—a smart, visually driven series of quick-start guides designed to help you grasp complex topics fast.Discover the story behind the books, the neuroscience-based learning method they use, and why these bite-sized guides to night skies, animal tracks, and stock charts resonate with curious minds—especially RVers. If you're someone who enjoys learning on the go or sharing knowledge with others around the campfire, this episode is for you.Learn more at https://stikky.comKey Topics include:The origin and evolution of Stikky BooksHow the design supports real retentionLearning through patterns, not memorizationWhy RVers and homeschoolers love them~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~THE RV ENTREPRENEURhttps://therventrepreneur.com~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Join the RVE community on Facebook!⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/therventrepreneurcommunity⁠Connec

Rose sits down with Liz Amazing – RVer, leading RV consumer advocate, and YouTuber who’s on a mission to empower RV buyers and hold manufacturers accountable. After successful careers in wedding photography and real estate, Liz hit the road full-time and has since owned ten RVs. What began as a dream-come-true lifestyle soon revealed an industry plagued with defects, poor customer service, and a lack of consumer protections. Rather than stay silent, Liz took action.Through her YouTube channel and website, she shares honest insights, exposes common new RV issues, and helps wronged consumers fight back – often securing buybacks and settlements on their behalf. She’s now one of the most trusted voices in the RV space, answering daily calls for help and pushing for real industry reform.Liz opens up about her RV journey, how she became a fearless advocate, and why education, inspections, and transparency are essential for every RV buyer. GUEST BIO: Liz Amazing is a leading RV consumer advocate, YouTuber, and photo

In this episode of The RV Entrepreneur Podcast, Jim sits down with Tony and Peggy Barthel, the friendly voices behind StressLess Camping, to talk about how their passion for RV education evolved into a thriving business. From giving seminars at RV rallies to publishing content that helps new and seasoned RVers alike, Tony and Peggy share the story behind their mission to make camping more enjoyable — and less stressful.Discover how they’ve built community through education, what they’ve learned teaching RV Basics at campgrounds and events, and their thoughts on how the RV lifestyle continues to change. Whether you’re brand new to RVing or a well traveled camper, this conversation is full of practical wisdom, humor, and insight from two of the most trusted educators in the RV world.Connect & Learn Morehttps://StressLessCamping.comInstagram: @stresslesscampingStressLess Camping RV podcasthttps://www.stresslesscamping.com/podcastRESOURCES MENTIONEDStressLess Camping Episode 91: Be More Dog - lessons learned

From humble beginnings in 2010, James and Jourdan Hansen had a vision to change the transportation game. Launching Jimbo & Co Transport with a team of skilled independent contractors in Middlebury, Indiana, they focused on hauling cargo trailers for industry giants. Their passion and expertise propelled them to the top, and by 2013, they were the #1 cargo trailer transporter in the US, also claiming the #4 spot for RV transport! Hear how Jimbo & Co went from a start-up to a national force.GUEST BIO: James and Jourdan Hansen are the owners of Jimbo & Company Transport, a RV transport company out of Middlebury IN.Connect & Learn More:jimboandcompany.comfacebook.com/JimboAndCompanyTransportinstagram.com/jimboandcompany~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~THE RV ENTREPRENEURhttps://therventrepreneur.com~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Join the RVE community on Facebook!⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/therventrepreneurcommunity⁠Connect with RVE on all your favorite socials⁠https://therventrepreneur.com/connect⁠⁠Got question

What if your next campground neighbor could tune up your bike on the spot? That’s exactly what Scott Truett is doing with BikeRx, a mobile bike repair business designed for full-time RVers who want to earn real money on the road.In this episode, Scott shares how he turned his lifelong passion for bikes into a scalable business model that helps RVers launch their own mobile repair operations — no franchise fees, no red tape, just a nice clean break into entrepreneurship. From salvaging bikes at the dump as a kid to running pop-up shops at farmers markets and now teaching others how to make people’s rides more enjoyable, Scott’s story is full of practical advice and inspiration for anyone chasing the RV dream.Whether you're a cyclist, a side-hustler, or just curious about alternative income streams, this episode is packed with smart takeaways and entrepreneurial grit.Connect & Learn More:https://bikerx.net~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~THE RV ENTREPRENEURhttps://therventrepreneur.com~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Join the RVE

Rose sits down with globally recognized Instagram expert Jenn Herman to dive into the world of organic Instagram marketing. From her surprising shift from a science background to becoming one of the leading voices in social media strategy, Jenn shares her entrepreneurial journey and the core principles that drive real results on Instagram—without paid ads.Explore the strategies new entrepreneurs need to succeed, including the importance of market research, storytelling, and building community through authentic content. Jenn unpacks how the Instagram algorithm really works, what metrics matter most (hint: it’s not likes!), and how to turn followers into customers by leading with value and connection.Whether you're just getting started or looking to refine your content strategy, this episode is packed with actionable tips on content creation, consistency, engagement, and more.Connect & Learn More:https://jennstrends.com/https://www.instagram.com/jenns_trends/~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~THE RV ENTREPRENEURhttps://t

Join RVE Podcast hosts Rose, Glynn, and Jim discuss their personal journeys in RV entrepreneurship, reflecting on their goals, challenges, and successes since their last check-in. They emphasize the importance of setting realistic goals, maintaining transparency with clients, and redefining success in the context of their nomadic lifestyle. The conversation also highlights the significance of customer service and community engagement, as well as the use of technology to foster connections within their community. Connect & Learn MoreRose & Glynn: https://resetyourjourney.com/Jim: https://liveworkdream.com/RESOURCES MENTIONEDRacery the Virtual Race Platformhttps://racery.com/Circle Community Platformhttps://circle.soA Micro-Niche Can Make Your Mobile Business Thrivehttps://therventrepreneur.com/micro-niche/Mastering Authentic Social Media Engagement with Loopie Media – RVE #370⁠https://therventrepreneur.com/rve370⁠Connection First Then Business: The RV Queens Approach to Entrepreneurship – RVE 392https:

What happens when two professionals ditch the default life to boldly go into a life of full-time RV travel, remote work, and content creation? You get Trekers: Ari and Jessie Adler—a dynamic duo living out their slogan, Hike. Camp. Boldly Go.In this episode, we dive into how Ari and Jessie juggle multiple income streams—including remote employment, consulting, workamping, and producing a YouTube channel—while exploring the country in their Airstream and custom van combo.They share what it takes to manage time and expectations with clients, stay productive on the road, and keep their sense of purpose at the center of it all. Whether you’re dreaming of RV life or already on the road, this episode is packed with real talk about work/life blending, remote job hunting, and embracing adventure even when it feels uncertain.GUEST BIO: We are Ari & Jessi, adventurers who travel nearly full-time in a 30-foot Airstream towed by a Chevy van that we outfitted for weekend excursions away from our trailer. We are excite

Sometimes the best business ideas come from the most unexpected places – like a demolished RV air conditioner! Glynn welcomes Deanna & Don from KoolRV to share their story of how a travel disaster in Montana sparked a journey into entrepreneurship. We’ll talk about how identifying a problem, DIY solutions, and a whole lot of grit turned a broken AC unit into KoolRV Solutions. Discover how this RVing couple went from roadside repair to product launch, the challenges they faced, and why this company was truly born out of necessity – and a little bit of duct tape!GUEST BIO: Don and Deanna met on the road and started RVing together in 2022. After an accident involving their a/c unit, Don discovered a flaw and created a product to help increase the efficiency of RV air conditioners. Together they launched KoolRV in June of 2023.Connect & Learn More:https://koolrv.com/https://www.facebook.com/Koolrvinchttps://www.instagram.com/koolrvinchttps://www.youtube.com/@koolrvincRESOURCESRV Life with Patti Hunt #122~

When Michele and her husband Connor discovered a campground for sale in rural Pennsylvania, they didn’t just see a piece of property, they saw potential. In this episode, Michele shares their journey from life on the road as remote workers to campground owners re-imagining what it means to create an experience destination, not just another stop along the way.How? They transformed a storage-filled pavilion at Rustic Acres into The Hub – a welcoming space for remote workers and travelers alike. And, they modernized outdated reservation systems and updated the website.Plus, Michele unpacks the mindset, marketing strategies, and community spirit required to turn a campground into something more.Learn how purpose-driven hospitality is shaping the future of outdoor travel—and why saying hi to your neighbor might just be your campground’s secret superpower.Connect & Learn MoreRustic Acres: https://camprustic.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rusticacrescampgroundFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/camprust

In this episode of The RV Entrepreneur Podcast, Rose is joined by Kate White – former UX designer turned full-time RVer, podcaster, and community builder. Kate shares how leaving a high-paying tech job led her to a more meaningful life on the road, homeschooling her kids, building a brand, and connecting with a powerful network of women entrepreneurs through her podcast, RV Queens. We dive into the importance of collaborative community for nomads, what it takes to launch and grow a podcast on the road, and why embracing failure is essential for entrepreneurial growth. Kate also shares some powerful tips and mindset shifts for RV women entrepreneurs.GUEST BIO: Kate White is a former UX designer who never imagined she’d be living in an RV or homeschooling her kids. In 2022, she and her husband left their suburban life in Omaha, Nebraska, to travel the country in search of a new place to call home. Instead, they discovered a thriving community of people embracing a non-traditional way of life. Inspired by their

Overwhelmed by the world of Facebook and Instagram ads? You’re not alone — and you’re definitely not doomed. In this episode, Jim chats with Amanda Robinson, The Digital Gal — a certified Meta Lead Trainer, international speaker, and the brains behind Swift Kick in the Ads.Amanda breaks down what actually works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to paid social media advertising, especially for small businesses and solopreneurs. From targeting and creative to budgeting and analytics, she shares pro tips and practical advice for entrepreneurs looking to run smarter, more effective ads — all while balancing life on the road.Whether you're just getting started or ready to scale your Meta ad strategy, this conversation is packed with real talk, expert insight, and a few hilarious stories from Amanda’s life as a digital nomad.Connect & Learn More:Website: https://thedigitalgal.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedigitalgal/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedigitalgal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin

Ken and April ditched their (adult) kids before they could ditch them and created a life of craft beer travel and adventure by writing travel guides, podcasting, and creating a camp for travelers. They've been on the road for nearly seven years traveling all across the country and beyond. Feeling the pull to find a few roots, their travels and adventures will never be done, just different. They aim to inspire others to follow their dreams, and the best way to start is 1) start and 2) say hi to a stranger! They want their story to inspire others to live their dreams - not just dream about them. You only get one life, don't wait until something tragic happens - make it happen now. Their entire lifestyle revolves around community. It's what they love about craft beer. It creates community and conversations and helps to show us that people are good humans.GUEST BIO: Ken and April ditched their (adult) kids before they could ditch them and created a life of craft beer travel and adventure by writing travel guides,