Wandering Gypsy RV Life

In this episode of the Wandering Gypsy RV Life Podcast, host Stan Cromlish sits down with Gil and Steve Raye, longtime members and ambassadors of the Family RV Association (FRVA), for a candid conversation about community, education, and why the organization has become such an important part of their full-time RV lifestyle.Recorded from Kick Back Ranch & Event Center in Ramer, Alabama, this conversation explores what makes FRVA unique and why so many RVers consider it one of the most valuable communities on the road.Gil and Steve share how they became involved with FRVA in 2018 and why the friendships and support network within the organization have been one of the most meaningful parts of their travels.Along the way, we talk about:• How FRVA education programs like RV Basics help both new and experienced RVers• The importance of community and camaraderie on the road• Why FRVA chapters are the heart of the organization• What to expect at the 112th FRVA International Convention in Perry, Georgia• The role of education, seminars, and hands-on learning at rallies and conventions• Steve’s upcoming Towable Rodeo event at the convention• How RVers can get involved with local and special-interest chaptersWe also discuss the FRVA Pathfinder program, designed for people who are still RV-curious but planning to purchase an RV in the future.Whether you’re a seasoned RVer, just starting your journey, or simply curious about the lifestyle, this episode highlights why so many travelers say the FRVA community feels like family.Mentioned in This EpisodeFRVA International Convention📍 Perry, Georgia📅 March 18–21Over 100 seminars, vendor exhibits, social events, and educational opportunities for RVers of all experience levels.Learn more about FRVA:https://www.frva.comResources🌎 Wandering Gypsy RV Lifehttps://wanderinggypsyrvlife.com📚 Rolling Smooth RV Book Serieshttps://bit.ly/rollingsmooth⚙️ RV gear that helps you adventure more and worry lesshttps://technorv.com?Click=12127🎙 Beyond the Chutes Podcasthttps://beyondthechutes.showAbout the PodcastThe Wandering Gypsy RV Life Podcast shares real stories from the road, lessons learned from full-time RV travel, and conversations with people who live the lifestyle in their own unique way.Hosted by Stan Cromlish, author of the Rolling Smooth RV book series, each episode explores the adventures, challenges, and friendships that make life on the road unforgettable.Closing ThoughtSometimes the best repair isn’t just the one that fixes your RV.It’s the one that quiets your mind.Until next time…Keep your rig Rolling Smooth.

A small roof leak can turn into a surprisingly big mental distraction.In this episode of the Wandering Gypsy RV Life Podcast, Stan Cromlish shares the story of a stubborn leak in Bertie Bea that refused to cooperate for nearly three weeks. What started as a minor moisture problem slowly turned into something that occupied far more mental space than it deserved.After multiple trips onto the roof, careful inspections, and a DIY repair attempt, the leak still refused to disappear. Eventually, Stan made the short drive to Golden, Mississippi, where Tony at Precision RV took a look and finished the job the right way. The final solution involved a careful inspection, experienced craftsmanship, and yes… seven tubes of sealant.But this episode isn’t really about sealant.It’s about how small unresolved problems quietly consume mental bandwidth until we finally deal with them. Whether it’s an RV repair, a project, or something else entirely, the Rolling Smooth mindset reminds us to slow down, evaluate the problem, determine the course, and resolve it.Sometimes the biggest reward isn’t just fixing the problem.Sometimes it’s the quiet mind that comes after.In This EpisodeDiagnosing a stubborn RV roof leakWhy small problems take up so much mental spaceWhen DIY repairs are enough and when to call an expertThe craftsmanship behind Precision RV in Golden, MississippiHow the Rolling Smooth mindset applies to everyday challengesResources & Links🌐 Wandering Gypsy RV Lifehttps://wanderinggypsyrvlife.com📡 TechnoRV – Gear that helps you adventure more and worry lesshttps://technorv.com?Click=12127🎙 Beyond the Chutes Podcast with Doug Simcoxhttps://beyondthechutes.show📚 Rolling Smooth Book Serieshttps://bit.ly/rollingsmoothAbout the PodcastThe Wandering Gypsy RV Life Podcast shares real stories from the road, practical lessons from full-time RV travel, and conversations with people who live life a little closer to the horizon.Hosted by Stan Cromlish, traveling in his 2016 Tiffin Allegro Open Road 34PA, Bertie Bea.

This week isn’t about electrical systems, tanks, or tire pressure.It’s about what happens when everything stacks up at once — physically, financially, mentally — and you still have to keep rolling.A knee that declared mutiny.A stubborn roof leak.Cash flow pressure.Preparing to speak and represent at the FRVA International Convention in Perry, Georgia.None of those things is catastrophic on its own.But together, they carry weight.In this episode, Stan talks honestly about mental health on the road and what the Rolling Smooth Mindset looks like when it moves from theory into practice.Real strength isn’t pretending nothing hurts.It isn’t suppressing stress or “cowboying up” past what’s real.It’s quieter than that.It’s slowing down.Evaluating clearly.Determining your course.Resolving steadily — without theatrics.If your motivation has thinned out lately…If life feels heavier than expected…If you’re trying to build something while living inside it at the same time…This episode is for you.You don’t need a breakthrough today.You need one small win.📍 FRVA International Convention – Perry, GA - March 18–21Stan will be speaking, representing the RV Basics Alumni Chapter, and bringing copies of the Rolling Smooth book series. There’s still time to register and show up.📚 Rolling Smooth Book SeriesReal lessons from the road about staying steady when things don’t go according to plan.https://bit.ly/rollingsmooth🌎 More from Wandering Gypsy RV LifeStories, photos, and videos from the road:https://wanderinggypsyrvlife.com🔧 TechnoRVStan’s trusted source for RV gear that helps you adventure more and worry less:https://technorv.com?Click=12127🤠 Beyond the Chutes PodcastRodeo history, cowboy storytelling, and legends of the arena:https://beyondthechutes.showUntil next time,Keep your rig rolling smooth.Keep your coffee hot.And remember… sometimes the best roads are the ones the GPS won’t even show you.

Kevin McCabe has spent more than 30 years in television production. After producing the long-running fishing show Addictive Fishing, he pivoted during COVID and co-created RV There Yet? TV, now airing on the Discovery Channel.In this episode of the Wandering Gypsy RV Life Podcast, Kevin shares:How a reunion video launched a 20+ year television careerThe moment he pitched an RV travel show to DiscoveryWhat long-form broadcast storytelling requires that social creators often underestimateWhy RV rallies and live education still matterHow to avoid burnout in today’s creator economyThe mindset behind longevity in both media and RV lifeWe also talk about authenticity, partnerships, FRVA rallies, and why Kevin believes the real legacy of RV There Yet? is inspiring people to get off the couch and explore America.If you’ve ever wondered what separates network-level storytelling from social media content, this conversation pulls back the curtain.Guest InformationKevin McCabeCo-host & Producer, RV There Yet? TVWebsite: RVThereYetTV.comYouTube: Search “RV There Yet? TV”Streaming: Roku, Amazon PrimeAirs Saturdays at 8:30am ET on the Discovery Channel (Season 5)Links & MentionsWandering Gypsy RV Life: https://wanderinggypsyrvlife.comRolling Smooth Books: https://bit.ly/rollingsmoothTechnoRV: https://technorv.com?Click=12127Beyond the Chutes Podcast (Doug Simcox): https://beyondthechutes.showKey Topics Discussed• 30+ years in television production• Addictive Fishing legacy• Transition from fishing TV to RV travel• Third-person storytelling vs influencer format• Vertical vs horizontal content production• Time-shifting and digital audience expectations• FRVA rallies and RV community growth• Authenticity vs chasing algorithms• Creator burnout• America 250 and the red, white & blue Patriot coach

It got cold in North Texas last week — cold enough to freeze hoses, shut off water, and send a lot of folks scrambling for backup plans.But my guest today was still showering in his trailer while everyone else headed to the arena.In this episode of Wandering Gypsy RV Life, I sit down with PRCA Announcer of the Year Garrett Yerigan to talk about rodeo travel, RV life, and what it really takes to stay ahead of the road when it tries to bite back.Garrett shares what it’s like living out of a trailer for months at a time, why he travels in a living-quarters horse trailer, how he handles cold weather, water management, maintenance on the road, and the routines that keep him grounded during major runs like the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo.Whether you’re an RVer, a rodeo traveler, or someone who lives and works on the road, this conversation highlights the mindset, preparation, and adaptability it takes to keep rolling smooth.▶️ Watch the Video Version📺 YouTube Podcast: (use the video link from this thread)📘 Rolling Smooth Book SeriesIf you enjoy real-world lessons from the road, check out my Rolling Smooth book series — practical RV wisdom built from lived experience. 🔗 https://bit.ly/wgrvlbooks☕ Support the PodcastIf you’d like to support the show and keep these stories rolling, you can buy me a coffee here: ☕ Buy Me a Coffee link → https://buymeacoffee.com/wanderinggypsyrvlife🔧 Partners & FriendsTechnoRV — my go-to for RV gear, from water filtration to GPS and more 🔗 https://technorv.com?Click=12127🎙️ Beyond the Chutes with Doug Simcox — rodeo history and cowboy storytelling 🔗 https://beyondthechutes.showUntil next time, keep your rig rolling smooth, keep your coffee hot, and remember, sometimes the best roads are the ones the GPS won’t even show you. Not all who wander are lost.

There’s a sound every RVer listens for.Water.And when you turn the faucet and hear nothing, your mind doesn’t wait for facts. It jumps straight to worst-case scenarios.This week on the Wandering Gypsy RV Life Podcast, I share a quiet winter morning with Bertie Bea that tested patience more than plumbing. Freezing temperatures. No water flow. Nothing broken, but nothing cooperating either.This isn’t a checklist episode about frozen pipes or emergency fixes. It’s a real-world lesson about restraint, timing, and knowing when not to touch a system. About why Rolling Smooth isn’t preventing problems, but meeting them without panic and without stacking mistakes.We talk about:Why pressure and ice don’t belong togetherThe hardest RV skill most people never learn: waitingHow small decisions protect systems more than tools ever willWhy does experience teach calm before it teaches confidenceIf you’re new to RV life, this episode will help you reframe those “what now?” moments. If you’ve been on the road a while, you already know the truth. It’s not if something happens. It’s when.You can find more stories, photos, and videos at wanderinggypsyrvlife.com.A special thanks to TechnoRV for supporting the show and helping RVers adventure more and worry less. And to my good friend Doug Simcox and his podcast Beyond the Chutes, where rodeo stories and cowboy history come alive.Until next time, keep your rig rolling smooth, your coffee hot, and remember: sometimes the smartest move is doing nothing at all. ☕🚐

There’s a moment in RV life when excitement gives way to reality.A parking lot decision before cell service disappears. A warning from someone who’s been there before. And the realization that the RV you almost bought could have changed everything.In this episode of the Wandering Gypsy RV Life Podcast, I sit down with Bill and Laura Egeln, new Class A RVers who share the real, unfiltered lessons they learned as they stepped into full-time motorhome life with their Tiffin Allegro Open Road, Gladys.This isn’t a highlight reel or a brand pitch. It’s an honest conversation about what new RVers don’t know yet — and how the right advice, timing, and mindset can save money, weekends, and a lot of stress.We talk about:The moment someone told them, “Do not buy that brand.”Rookie mistakes most first-time RVers makeWhy arriving after dark is a lesson you only need onceThe 300-mile rule and planning smarter travel daysTire age, pressure, and weight realitiesWhy RV inspections are non-negotiableCold weather surprises and winter prepLearning from technicians instead of panickingWhy good resources matter more than floorplansAt its core, this episode is about understanding that RV life isn’t about avoiding problems — it’s about being prepared for them.It’s not if. It’s when. And everything is fixable.📘 Buy my RV books: Rolling Smooth – Real Lessons from the Road 👉 https://wanderinggypsyrvlife.com/rollingsmooth🌐 Wandering Gypsy RV Life Blog & Resources 👉 https://wanderinggypsyrvlife.com🎙 New episodes drop regularly. Pull up a chair and ride along.

There’s a moment when the forecast changes.Not the casual “might dip below freezing” kind of cold, but the kind where weather apps start using words like teens, hard freeze, and winter storm. That’s when RV life gets very honest.In this episode of Wandering Gypsy RV Life, I walk through how I think about cold-weather RV planning when temperatures drop into the teens and twenties. This isn’t about panic or worst-case scenarios. It’s about staying ahead of the weather instead of chasing it.We talk through:Why do different RV types handle cold very differentlyHow water systems become the first point of failure in freezing weatherWhy living off your fresh tank can be a sign of preparedness, not inconvenienceHow to layer heat safely without overloading electrical systemsThe importance of planning for nighttime before temperatures bottom outWhy calm, comfort, and safety are built long before 3 a.m.Cold weather RVing is as much mental as it is mechanical. When you wake up warm, stocked, and calm while the temperature outside is in the teens, that isn’t luck. It’s preparation doing exactly what it was meant to do.🔗 Full cold weather planning write-up: https://wanderinggypsyrvlife.com/2026/01/23/cold-weather-rv-planning/🔗 Helpful Links🌐 Wandering Gypsy RV Life: https://wanderinggypsyrvlife.com📘 Rolling Smooth Series: https://wanderinggypsyrvlife.com/rollingsmooth🛠️ RV Gear & Support (affiliate): https://technorv.com?Click=12127🎙️ Beyond the Chutes Podcast: https://beyondthechutes.show❤️ Support the journey on Patreon: https://patreon.com/wanderinggypsyrvlifeStay warm. Stay curious. And keep rolling smooth.

Two kinds of people truly understand the road: RVers and cowboys.Both live by weather windows, fuel stops, and a deep respect for momentum and margin. And both know that when things go wrong out there, they don’t do it politely or on schedule.In this episode of the Wandering Gypsy RV Life Podcast, I sit down with Chick Wilfong for a grounded, experience-driven conversation at the crossroads of RV life and cowboy culture.Chick has spent decades hauling horses and living out of everything from campers and living-quarters trailers to buses, semis, and toterhomes. This isn’t a gear or brand conversation. It’s about what actually keeps people and animals safe when you’re moving heavy rigs down imperfect roads.We talk about why “have enough truck” is rule number one, why maintenance is the difference between a story and a disaster, and how tire blowouts can get Western in a hurry when you’re hauling serious weight. We dig into TPMS and monitoring systems, air and hub temperature warnings, weighing your rig, and why hope is not a tactic when your family or horses are onboard.We also cover defensive driving, stopping distances, speed discipline, always knowing your out, and why slowing down is often the smartest move you can make. Along the way, we compare how RVers and cowboys approach the same challenges from different angles and what each group can learn from the other.If you tow, haul, full-time, part-time, or just want to do this lifestyle safer and smarter, this episode delivers hard-earned wisdom from miles, mistakes, and maintenance.CHAPTERS00:00 Cold open: momentum & margin01:18 Show welcome + Chick intro04:03 Life on the road (every kind of rig)05:30 Blowouts, tire realities, and the true cost07:06 “Have enough truck” + why it matters08:11 Maintenance, leaks, and rolling earthquakes14:15 Protecting the rig: TPMS, air, temp warnings21:53 Weight, scales, and staying legal34:08 Defensive driving, speed, and stopping distance39:13 Checklists, slowing down, and staying safe45:26 Where to find Chick + devotionals49:20 Wrap-up + shout-outsFind Chick WilfongFacebook: Chick Wilfong / Wild West with Chick WilfongYouTube, Instagram, TikTok: Chick WilfongMore from Wandering Gypsy RV LifeWebsite: https://wanderinggypsyrvlife.comRolling Smooth: Real Lessons from the Road Book Series: https://wanderinggypsyrvlife.com/rollingsmoothTechnoRV (affiliate): https://technorv.com?Click=12127Beyond the Chutes Podcast: https://beyondthechutes.showPatreon: Join the Campfire Circle for bonus content and behind-the-scenes episodesOutro music: Brother Highway by Ned LeDoux (used with permission)Until next time, keep your rig Rolling Smooth, keep your coffee hot, and remember: not all who wander are lost.

There’s a sound that signals the start of RV show season. Not engines. Not generators. It’s the low hum of wanderers comparing notes, pointing at rigs, and quietly rethinking their setups. Every January, that sound gets loud in Tampa.In this episode of the Wandering Gypsy RV Life Podcast, Stan previews the Tampa RV Super Show, running January 14–18, 2026, at the Florida State Fairgrounds, and explains why this rally is about far more than shiny rigs and new gadgets.Stan shares why education sits at the core of the Rolling Smooth mindset and how seminars on water systems, tanks, propane, inverters, converters, and power management can be the difference between confident travel and campground stress. He also talks about being on-site representing TechnoRV, answering real-world questions about power, connectivity, and RV systems, plus bringing copies of the Rolling Smooth: Real Lessons from the Road book series for face-to-face conversations.You’ll hear why clean, protected power matters, including a look at the Hughes Autoformers 50-Amp Power Center installed on Bertie Bea, and why preventative upgrades align with a systems-first RV philosophy. Stan also dives into one of the most overlooked benefits of rallies: direct access to manufacturers, engineers, and technicians from companies like Micro-Air and Shade Pro, often with on-site installation available.From solving lingering RV issues while you’re already surrounded by experts to using the Florida RV Trade Association mobile app to plan your days, this episode is your grounded, experience-driven guide to getting real value out of the Tampa RV Super Show.If you’re heading to Tampa, make education the priority, stop by the TechnoRV booth, ask questions, attend seminars, and leave with more than brochures. Leave with confidence.👉 Learn more at wanderinggypsyrvlife.com. Until next time, keep it rolling smooth, and maybe I’ll see you down the road… or in Tampa. 📍

The Miles That Changed Me isn’t a highlight reel, a travel recap, or a victory lap.In this Season 2 opener of the Wandering Gypsy RV Life Podcast, I sit with the year that was — a year of momentum, massive change, and lessons that only show up after you’ve been carrying more than you realized.2025 gave me a lot. It also took more than I expected.In this episode, I reflect on:What went right when comfort and maintenance became tools instead of luxuriesHow momentum quietly turned into weight after the guardrails disappearedWhat grief, fatigue, and staying in motion taught me about limitsWhy RV systems don’t care about schedules or deadlinesAnd what I’m doing differently as I roll into 2026 with more intentionThis episode isn’t about where I went.It’s about how the miles changed how I want to travel next.🌐 Learn more about Wandering Gypsy RV Life:https://wanderinggypsyrvlife.com📚 Rolling Smooth: Real Lessons from the Road:https://wanderinggypsyrvlife.com/rollingsmooth/🛠️ Trusted RV gear & education (affiliate):https://technorv.com?Click=12127🎙️ Beyond the Chutes Podcast:https://beyondthechutes.show⏱️ Episode Chapters00:00 – Cold Open: When You Finally Stop Moving00:40 – Brother Highway (Intro)01:13 – Welcome to the Campfire02:06 – What This Episode Is (Not a Highlight Reel)02:24 – What Went Right in 202503:08 – Comfort and Maintenance as Tools03:45 – Community, Rallies, and RV Education04:28 – Laughing Through the Mishaps05:00 – When the Guardrails Disappeared05:28 – Momentum, Travel, and Taking on Too Much05:57 – Loss, Grief, and Staying in Motion06:49 – When the Calendar Doesn’t Care07:01 – The Education Gap in the Equine RV World07:44 – What I’m Doing Differently in 202608:23 – Choosing Deliberate Travel08:56 – Bridging the RV and Equine Education Gap09:17 – Campfire Closing & Gratitude11:09 – Brother Highway (Outro)

Christmas in the RV life looks a little different.In this episode of Wandering Gypsy RV Life, Stan shares what it’s like to leave your rolling home behind for the holidays — parking Bertie Bea at Kick Back Ranch & Event Center and heading home in Rosie to see Management and Assistant Management.From the romantic idea of an RV Christmas to the real-world questions about power, weather, and systems, this episode walks through the decisions that matter when you’re miles away from your rig — and why peace of mind sometimes comes in the form of a handwritten note from Santa instead of a box under the tree.You’ll hear about:Leaving your RV unattended during the holidaysWhy power protection matters more than decorationsSwitching from RV brain to family holiday brainWhat makes RV shows like Tampa valuable beyond the shiny gearAnd why the road always leads back to the people who matter mostPull up a chair, pour something warm, and ride along.⏱️ Episode Chapters00:00 – Cold OpenWhen your RV feels like home… until Christmas calls you back01:05 – Welcome to Wandering Gypsy RV LifeFreedom, problem-solving, and yelling “WHY” with a flashlight02:05 – The RV Christmas Reality CheckRomantic RV Christmas ideas vs. real-world concerns03:35 – Leaving Bertie Bea BehindWhy leaving your rig feels like leaving a dog with a friend04:55 – The “Did I Forget Anything?” MomentLocks, water, propane, and avoiding that phone call06:10 – Power, Protection, and a Note from SantaWhy peace of mind didn’t arrive in a box this year07:35 – The Drive Home in RosieSwitching from RV brain to family holiday brain08:50 – Christmas at HeadquartersManagement, Assistant Management, and RV maintenance explanations09:50 – Why the Road Still MattersFreedom, family, and missing home10:40 – Final Thoughts & Sign-OffRolling smooth, hot coffee, and wandering with purpose🔗 Links & Resources🌐 Wandering Gypsy RV Life👉 https://wanderinggypsyrvlife.com🛠️ RV Gear & Safety Tools I Trust👉 TechnoRV (affiliate): https://technorv.com?Click=12127🔥 Join the Campfire Circle on PatreonBonus content, video episodes, and behind-the-scenes stories👉 https://www.patreon.com/wanderinggypsyrvlife🎙️ Beyond the Chutes PodcastRodeo history and cowboy storytelling with Doug Simcox👉 https://beyondthechutes.show🎶 Outro Music“Brother Highway” by Ned LeDouxUsed under license for Wandering Gypsy RV Life

Headed for the Pacific Northwest with your rig? In this episode of the Wandering Gypsy RV Life Podcast, I sit down with Brooks Smothers, host of the RV Out West Podcast, to talk about what makes Washington, Oregon, and the greater PNW such a legendary place to explore on wheels.We roll through Brooks’ origin story—from tent camping and a borrowed tent trailer that instantly converted his “city girl” wife, to their current Jayco bunkhouse that’s hauled the family more than 10,000 miles. We dig into how the pandemic sparked his podcast (now closing in on episode 200… and yes, he’s planning a tattoo), and how podcasting changes the way you notice campgrounds, meals, and little details you wish you’d filmed.You’ll also get practical road wisdom: favorite PNW spots like Cape Disappointment, a hidden gem near Lake Curlew, must-have apps and alerts for snagging campsites, and real-world “learn it before you need it” lessons like finding your manual slide override before your slide goes crooked on departure day. We wrap with Brooks’ best advice on timing a PNW trip, plus where to find his show—and what he’s teaching at the Kansas City RV Show (January 2026).More from me at wanderinggypsyrvlife.com. Bonus content and behind-the-scenes over on Patreon. If you’re upgrading your rig for safety and peace of mind, check out TechnoRV via my affiliate link: https://technorv.com?Click=12127. Also, give my buddy Doug Simcox a listen on Beyond the Chutes.Episode Chapters:00:00 Welcome + Show Intro01:31 Meet Brooks Smothers (RV Out West)02:50 From Tents to Trailers (How It Started)07:21 Upgrading the Rig + Big Miles08:14 Why RV Out West Podcast Exists11:54 Content vs Living the Moment14:01 Campground Fun & Family Traditions16:30 Apps, Planning & Travel Tech19:37 Safety Gear + Must-Have Tools23:29 Favorite PNW Spots (Cape Disappointment)28:52 Winterizing + Cold-Weather Lessons33:32 Best Time to Visit the PNW35:16 Where to Find Brooks + KC RV Show41:34 Outro + Sponsors43:50 “Brother Highway” Outro

RVers and cowboys may look like they’re living in completely different worlds—but spend enough time around both, and the similarities start to stand out.In this episode of the Wandering Gypsy RV Life Podcast, host Stan Cromlish reflects on time spent around RVers and the rodeo community and discovers that, despite different traditions and mindsets, both groups are solving the same challenges on the road.From living quarters, horse trailers, to motorhomes, the fundamentals don’t change: tires, weight, clearance, power, water, weather, and the responsibility that comes with hauling what matters most. RVers often learn through hard-earned trial and error, while cowboys grow up trusting experience and tradition—but both approaches aim for the same goal: getting there safely and coming home with good stories.This episode is about shared roads, shared risks, and the respect that grows when different traveling cultures start learning from one another instead of staying in their own lanes.No matter what you’re hauling—horses, memories, or your entire life—the road treats us all the same.🔗 Find more stories, photos, and videos at:👉 https://wanderinggypsyrvlife.com🔥 Join the Wandering Gypsy RV Life Campfire Circle on Patreon for behind-the-scenes content, bonus stories, and exclusive videos—including the episode with Ned LeDoux.👉 https://www.patreon.com/cw/WanderingGypsyRVLife🛠 A quick thank-you to TechnoRV, my longtime go-to for RV gear that helps travelers prepare for the road ahead. If you’re looking to adventure more and worry less, you can find their products here:👉 https://technorv.com?Click=12127🎙 Also check out Beyond the Chutes with Doug Simcox for rodeo history, cowboy storytelling, and the legends behind the arena.👉 https://beyondthechutes.showUntil next time—keep your rig rolling smooth, keep your coffee hot, and remember: sometimes the best lessons on the road come from listening to travelers who look nothing like you.Not all who wander are lost.

In this episode of the Wandering Gypsy RV Life, Stan reflects on the two essential members of his traveling family: Bertie Bea, his 36-foot Tiffin Allegro Open Road 34PA, and Rosie, his dependable Chevrolet Equinox. A recent repair story brought attention to one rig — and made him realize how much the other deserved recognition, too.Stan shares how each vehicle shapes his life on the road, from long-haul comfort to small-town maneuvering, from mountain passes to grocery runs. Along the way, he talks about the deeper truth of RV life: the rigs and gear we depend on become part of our story — trusted companions who carry us through every mile, memory, and mishap.Join him for a heartfelt look at life behind the wheel, what these two rigs mean to the Wandering Gypsy RV Life, and a quick preview of his upcoming trip to the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas.🔗Links Mentioned in This Episode🌐 Wandering Gypsy RV Life Website:https://wanderinggypsyrvlife.com🛠️ TechnoRV — RV Gear I Trust:Use my affiliate link here: https://technorv.com?Click=12127📚 Rolling Smooth (Books & RV Guides):Available through the Wandering Gypsy RV Life website🔥 Patreon – Join the Campfire Circle:Get behind-the-scenes videos, bonus episodes, and extrashttps://www.patreon.com/wanderinggypsyrvlife🎙️ Beyond the Chutes Podcast (Doug Simcox):https://beyondthechutes.show

After a surprise sideswipe at Ocean Lakes Family Campground left Bertie Bea with a few unwanted “beauty marks,” I headed straight to the RV repair capital of the Tiffin world—Red Bay, Alabama, and Belmont, Mississippi. What I found (as always) was an incredible community of small, specialized cottage shops dedicated to keeping Class A motorhomes rolling smooth.In this episode of the Wandering Gypsy RV Life Podcast, I walk through my three-day repair adventure at Ricky McGee’s Pro Finishes and highlight the talented artisans who make Red Bay a pilgrimage site for Tiffin owners.We cover the whole ecosystem, including:• Ricky McGee’s Pro Finishes – expert paint, bodywork, and factory-quality finishes• Fowler Detailing – deep cleaning, oxidation removal, and that show-stopping shine• Bunkhouse RV Conversions – custom cabinetry, bunks, and interior transformations• Precision RV – the slide-out whisperers & roof strip-and-reseal perfectionists• Brewer Electronics – wiring, audio/video, cameras, satellites & electrical diagnostics• The Tiffin Service Center – the mothership for major structural and factory repairsThese small-town shops aren’t just businesses—they’re the heartbeat of the Tiffin community. Former Tiffin employees, family-run operations, and master artisans who treat your rig like their own. If you’re a Tiffin owner, this episode is your guide to the Red Bay–Belmont repair and upgrade world.🔗 Links Mentioned in This Episode🌐 Wandering Gypsy RV Life Website: https://wanderinggypsyrvlife.com📸 Follow on Social Media:Facebook: https://facebook.com/WanderingGypsyRVLifeInstagram: https://instagram.com/wanderinggypsyrvlifeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WanderingGypsyRVLife🔥 Join the Campfire Circle on Patreon: https://patreon.com/WanderingGypsyRVLife🛠️ TechnoRV (Affiliate Link): https://technorv.com?Click=12127Your source for RV gear, safety, and education.🤠 Beyond the Chutes Podcast (Doug Simcox): https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/beyondthechutes📣Support the ShowIf you’re enjoying the podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow RV wanderers. Your support keeps this journey rolling smooth.#WanderingGypsyRVLife #TiffinMotorhomes #RedBayAL #BelmontMS #RVLife #FullTimeRVer #RVMaintenance #RVEducation #TiffinFamily #RVCommunity #ClassARV #RVTravel #RVRepairs #MotorhomeLife #PrecisionRV #FowlerDetailing #BunkhouseRV #BrewerElectronics #TechnoRV #RollingSmooth

In this episode of the Wandering Gypsy RV Life Podcast, I’m coming to you from Bertie Bea at the Davie/Fort Lauderdale KOA Holiday during the PRCA Southeastern Circuit Finals. My guest is my good friend Doug Simcox, host of Beyond the Chutes and the driver of the well-traveled BTC bus.Doug just wrapped up a Texas rodeo swing, visiting PBR World Champion Daylon Swearingen, Glen Bird, Ronnie Williams, Wild West Ward, and Kelly Clark. Along the way, he collected unforgettable rodeo stories—and a few breakdowns that turned into teachable moments for every RVer and horse hauler.We talk about:• Dumping in Lucas fuel treatment after a sketchy fuel stop—and discovering the truck has never run better• My own MPG jump in Bertie Bea using Star Tron Enzyme Fuel Treatment• A broken belt tensioner at an Arkansas rest area and a Tractor Supply “MacGyver” fix• A red-hot wheel bearing caught just in time at a Little Rock truck stop• How rest-area three-card Monte scams target travelers• Why annual maintenance, inspections, and a good RV GPS matter more than ever• Real-life RV hazards: shredded truck-tire alligators, roadside debris, and a costly awning scrape at Ocean LakesWe connect all of this back to the Rolling Smooth series—from maintenance tips to the stories that fill From Breakdowns to Belly Laughs. Doug also shares why preserving rodeo history matters and previews new episodes coming from his Texas run and recent rodeo reunions.If you love RV life, rodeo stories, and lessons learned the hard way, this episode is right up your alley.Links MentionedWandering Gypsy RV Life: https://wanderinggypsyrvlife.comRolling Smooth Series: https://wanderinggypsyrvlife.com/rollingsmooth/Autographed Books:How to Enjoy the RV Life – https://wanderinggypsyrvlife.com/product/rolling-smooth-how-to-enjoy-the-rv-life-without-losing-your-cool-autographed-copy/Keeping Your Rig Road-Ready – https://wanderinggypsyrvlife.com/product/rolling-smooth-keeping-your-rig-road-ready/TechnoRV (affiliate): https://technorv.com?Click=12127Beyond the Chutes Podcast: https://beyondthechutes.showThe Black Tank Blues: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nk1mfl27umUPatreon – Campfire Circle: https://www.patreon.com/WanderingGypsyRVLife

Recorded on location at the Family RV Association’s Greater Eastern Area Rally in Myrtle Beach, SC, this video episode of the Wandering Gypsy RV Life Podcast features Jennifer Schillaci of Learn to RV and RV Roofing Solutions. We dig into practical RV education (not clickbait): community, free learning resources, roof care & inspections, internet on the road, safe water, tank tips, and how to find trustworthy RV techs. If you’re a new RVer or leveling up your full-time rig life, this is for you.🎧 What you’ll learn• Learn to RV’s mission: free, family-friendly education & community groups• FRVA, chapters, and why rallies matter (RV Basics, road-schooling, safety)• Roof maintenance myths, free inspections at rallies, and member discounts• Connectivity 101: campground Wi-Fi, Starlink, cellular — pros & cons• Safety & systems: TPMS, fire suppression, water filtration, tank best practices• Finding the right tech (and why specialization matters)• Why RVing isn’t “cheap” — budgeting for maintenance the smart way⏱️ Chapters00:00 Intro at FRVA GEAR, Ocean Lakes (Myrtle Beach)01:25 Meet Jennifer: Learn to RV & RV Roofing Solutions05:40 Free education, communities & closed groups for safety12:10 Holiday traditions on the road & giving back (Lasagna Love, more)16:45 Roof care truth: inspections, leaks, and rally services23:30 Internet on the road: options & realistic expectations29:10 Safety gear: TPMS, fire suppression, water & tanks36:00 Finding qualified RV techs & brand specialists41:20 Chapters, rallies & building real community47:15 Final takeaways + where to follow🔗 Helpful links & supportLearn to RV the Podcast: https://learntorvthepodcast.comWandering Gypsy RV Life website: https://wanderinggypsyrvlife.comTechnoRV (affiliate): https://technorv.com?Click=12127Beyond the Chutes podcast (shout-out in episode) - https://beyondthechutes.showPatreon (free to follow, optional support): https://www.patreon.com/WanderingGypsyRVLife📚 From the hostCheck out my Rolling Smooth series for no-nonsense RV education — written to help you avoid costly mistakes and stay road-ready.🛠️ Mentioned gear & topics (SEO)RV roof inspection, RV Roofing Solutions, Learn to RV podcast, FRVA Greater Eastern Area Rally, Ocean Lakes Campground, Myrtle Beach RV rally, RV Basics course, RV internet, Starlink for RV, cellular routers for RV, campground Wi-Fi, TPMS, Proteng, water filtration (GoBluTech), Micro-Air Easy Start, black tank best practices, full-time RV life, fifth wheel, Tiffin Allegro, Newmar fifth wheel, road schooling, Escapees👍 If this helped, please like, subscribe, and share with a fellow RVer. Drop your questions below — I read every comment!#RVLife #LearnToRV #FRVA #OceanLakes #MyrtleBeach #RVEducation #FullTimeRV #RVRoofing #RVCommunity #Tiffin #FifthWheel #RollingSmooth #WanderingGypsyRVLife

Ready to discover the heart and soul of the RV lifestyle? In this episode of the Wandering Gypsy RV Life Podcast, Stan Cromlish shares his journey from RV rally newbie to seasoned attendee—highlighting the camaraderie, learning, and adventure that come with joining RV associations like the Family RV Association (FRVA) and the All-Inclusive Motorcoach Club.Stan reminisces about his first rally in Tucson, Arizona, unexpected friendships, and the unique flavor of both luxury AIM Club events and the big, bustling FRVA gatherings at places like Pocono Raceway. He also previews the upcoming GEAR Rally in Myrtle Beach, where he’ll be selling books, recording new episodes, and introducing “Management” (aka Mom and Dad) to their first-ever rally adventure.If you’ve ever wondered why rallies and associations matter—or why you should join the FRVA—this episode is for you. It’s not just about the places you’ll go, but the people who become your road family.Links & Resources:🌐 Website👍 Facebook📸 Instagram▶️ YouTube🔥 Patreon – Join the Campfire Circle🛠️ TechnoRV Gear (Affiliate)🤠 Beyond the Chutes PodcastDon’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow wanderer. Until next time, keep your rig rolling smooth and your coffee hot!

Guitarist and TKO Artist Management veteran Mark Sissel hops on the Wandering Gypsy RV Life Podcast to swap road stories that span decades—36 years riding the LeDoux brand and 27 years at TKO. We dive into the real-deal moments behind the music: the 2021 San Antonio ice storm that inspired “Cards in San Antone,” Chris LeDoux’s headset-mic freedom and on-stage pranks, dodging flying Copenhagen cans, hauling a bucking machine into the Houston Astrodome, and keeping traditions alive at the Silverton during the NFR. Mark also pulls back the curtain on his work with Toby Keith, and we tip our hats to the incomparable Mac McAnally.Stan shares a very… ahem… memorable RV black-tank mishap, and together we connect the dots between tour life and life on the road in a coach—where you make it work, keep moving, and meet good people everywhere. Plus, a nod to our licensed theme, “Brother Highway” by Ned LeDoux.Audio note: This conversation was recorded over Zoom, and a cranky mic gave us some raspy, muffled moments. Thanks for rolling with a little extra road noise—this one’s worth the ride.💻 Visit wanderinggypsyrvlife.com for more stories, photos, and videos from the road.🛠️ Check out TechnoRV gear through my affiliate link: https://technorv.com?Click=12127 — they’ll help you adventure more and worry less.🔥 Join the Campfire Circle on Patreon for behind-the-scenes extras and bonus content: Patreon.com/WanderingGypsyRVLife🤠 And be sure to listen to my good friend Doug Simcox on the Beyond the Chutes podcast for incredible rodeo stories and cowboy history.📘 Don’t miss my book series, Rolling Smooth: Real Lessons From the Road, available now at wanderinggypsyrvlife.com/rollingsmooth—your guide to keeping your rig road-ready and your adventures rolling.