Episodios

  • In Episode 363, Luke Duquette explains how the new Workamper website helps members
    Dec 29 2025

    During this week’s show, we are addressing an issue that has sometimes frustrated Workampers for the last several years, and that is limitations of the Workamper website. Fortunately, all that changed just a few weeks ago and we’ll show you what the enhanced website means for members.

    Today, I am featuring Luke Duquette, who is one of the owners behind Workamper News and the newly rebuilt Workamper.com website.

    Luke takes us behind-the-scenes of a massive multi-year effort to completely rebuild the Workamper website from the ground up.

    This was not a simple redesign. It was a full rethink of how the platform works for Workampers, employers and staff.

    During this conversation, Luke explains why the old system was no longer sustainable, how years of technical issues and burnout led to a hard reset for him and his wife, Jody.

    Luke explains why stepping away from the business for a short time was ultimately necessary before the Workamper organization could move forward. Just taking a break renewed their enthusiasm for the Workamper program and gave them new insight on ways to improve the organization.

    He also walks through what went into building a modern, custom platform, including the separation of the public website from the member portal. Luke explains why those changes matter for anyone looking to find Workamping jobs more easily and efficiently.

    If you have ever wondered why Workamper.com works the way it does, or how the organization is preparing for the future of Workamping, this episode will provide important context and clarity.

    Luke shared an honest look at what it took to rebuild Workamper.com in a way that supports people using the platform and the people running it.

    The changes he described are designed to make it easier for Workampers to create stronger resumes, organize job searches and stay active year-round, while also giving employers better tools to connect with the right candidates.

    Just as important, the new systems help the Workamper organization focus less on fixing technology problems and more on supporting members and improving their overall experience to find Workamping jobs that are a good fit for them.

    If you are a current member, Luke encourages you to log in to the new site at my.workamper.com. There you can explore the new tools, update your information and share feedback so the staff can continue to improve the platform.

    If you are not yet a member, be sure to check out the new website at workamper.com, and select from three membership options:

    • Dreamers are always free to learn more about the Workamping lifestyle.
    • Seekers who are ready to find a job pay only $5 per month or $42 per year.
    • Workampers who want jobs to FIND THEM can join at the Pro level for $8 per month or $67 per year.

    There are also several options for employers interested in becoming members. Get started today by visiting www.workamper.com/join.

    Start the new year on the right foot by becoming a member of Workamper News. It’s the gateway to a new life of travel and adventure.

    That’s all for this week’s show. I’ll have another fun interview for you on the next episode of The Workamper Show. On behalf of all of us at the Workamper organization, we wish you a happy new year as well as a fun, memorable year of adventure in 2026. Thanks for listening!

    Más Menos
    21 m
  • In Episode 362, Earl B. Hunter, Jr., with The Unity Folks, describes how to be more inviting
    Dec 23 2025

    For this week’s show, we are going to dive into a topic uniquely suited for Christmas, and that’s unity. The goal is to inspire more people to engage in Workamping and outdoor recreation regardless of their backgrounds.

    Today, I am joined by Earl B. Hunter Jr., the founder and president of The Unity Folks. It is an award-winning company focused on helping the outdoor and RV industries to invite and welcome people from all backgrounds.

    Earl spent decades as a business executive, including time as one of the few Black executives in the RV industry, where he helped grow a company from under $1 million to nearly $20 million in revenue.

    That experience shaped how he now approaches diversity, workforce development and long-term sustainability in outdoor recreation.

    Through The Unity Folks, Earl works with campgrounds, state and national parks, manufacturers and retailers to help them better understand why many people, especially those from underrepresented communities, have historically felt disconnected from the outdoors.

    In this conversation, we talk about generational barriers, the importance of education and empathy, and why campgrounds play a critical role in shaping outdoor culture.

    We also explore how Workampers can serve as ambassadors for unity simply by the way they welcome and interact with guests.

    My conversation with Earl reinforces how powerful campgrounds can be as places of connection, learning and shared experience.

    Earl made it clear that inviting people into the outdoors is not about checking boxes or making symbolic gestures.

    Rather, it is about understanding why some people have not felt welcome, taking the time to educate and listen, and creating environments where respect and empathy come first.

    For Workampers, that means recognizing the influence you have on guests who may be camping or RVing for the first time. Simple things like explaining campground etiquette, answering questions without judgment and modeling kindness can make a lasting difference.

    Earl also shared how The Unity Folks works directly with campgrounds and outdoor businesses to provide training and Unity Blaze certification to help them create more welcoming spaces for visitors and workers alike.

    If you would like to learn more about Earl’s company or explore how your campground or business can get involved, visit www.theunityfolks.com or email info @ theunityfolks.com. You can also find The Unity Folks on all major social media platforms.

    Today’s episode is sponsored by Workamper News. Much more than just a job-listing website, when you put the tools of this professional service into action, you’ll find out just how easy it can be to turn your Workamping dreams into reality.

    A Workamper membership opens the door to a one-stop-shop for all-things Workamping. Being the original resource for Workamping, you’ll find the largest number of job listings, be able to connect with a community of Workampers, and view resources compiled by experts who have been enjoying the RV lifestyle for many years.

    If you’re serious about leading a successful and enjoyable Workamping lifestyle, then membership is for you. Join today at www.workamper.com. Embark on new adventures today with the support of Workamper News behind you!

    That’s all for this week’s show. On behalf of all of us at the Workamper organization, we wish you a happy and memorable Christmas holiday. We have a special episode planned for next week to explain some important changes and updates to the new Workamper website. It will help make 2026 your best year ever for Workamping. Thanks for listening and Merry Christmas.

    Más Menos
    48 m
  • Sisters KC and Charlie Houston describe Workamping together in Episode 361
    Dec 16 2025

    Today, I am speaking with two sisters who have been RVing and Workamping together. They are having a great time on their adventures, and documenting it for others to enjoy as well.

    KC and Charlie Houston are sisters who decided to turn a shared sense of humor and curiosity into a full time RV and Workamping lifestyle.

    KC has been living full time in her travel trailer for three years. In September, Charlie packed up a three-bedroom house, moved into the second bedroom of that trailer, and joined KC on the road.

    Together, they are currently Workamping in the Texas Hill Country at Lake Buchanan, where they serve as office assistants handling reservations, answering phones, helping in the camp store and pitching in around the campground when needed.

    The women talk about what it is really like to live and work together in a small space, how they landed their first Workamping job, and the lessons they learned about evaluating opportunities by asking about work hours and compensation.

    They also share why meeting people, living by the lake and experiencing new regions, like the Hill Country, have made this lifestyle so rewarding.

    You will also hear about their creative side projects, which include starting a video blog and podcast.

    If you are curious about getting started in Workamping, figuring out boundaries when you live and work in the same place, or just want an honest and funny look at RV life from two sisters who jumped in together, you will enjoy this conversation.

    KC and Charlie prove that Workamping can be equal parts adventure, learning curve and lots of laughter.

    They shared what attracted them to the Workamping lifestyle, the adjustments that needed to be made and how they continue to learn and apply practical lessons.

    They also talked about learning RV maintenance as they go, from cleaning air conditioning units to figuring out what not to fix yourself, and why staying in one place for several months allows you to really experience a region.

    Beyond Workamping, they are also documenting their journey through their vlog, Neighborhood to Trailerhood, which takes a humorous, mockumentary style look at everyday RV life. The videos can be found on YouTube.

    Through their podcast, Adulthood as a Project, KC and Charlie explore life lessons, personal growth and the idea that adulthood itself is always a work in progress.

    You can find several ways to contact KC and Charlie on their Linktree page at https://linktr.ee/adulthoodisaproject

    Today’s episode is sponsored by Workamper News. Much more than just a job-listing website, when you put the tools of this professional service into action, you’ll find out just how easy it can be to turn your Workamping dreams into reality.

    A Workamper membership opens the door to a one-stop-shop for all-things Workamping. Being the original resource for Workamping, you’ll find the largest number of job listings, be able to connect with a community of Workampers, and view resources compiled by experts who have been enjoying the RV lifestyle for many years.

    If you’re serious about leading a successful and enjoyable Workamping lifestyle, then membership is for you. Join today at www.workamper.com. Embark on new adventures today with the support of Workamper News behind you!

    That’s all for this week’s show. I’ll have another inspiring interview on the next episode of The Workamper Show. Thanks for listening!

    Más Menos
    26 m
  • In Episode 360, Shellie Schaffer explains what led her to the Workamping lifestyle
    Dec 9 2025

    Today, I am speaking with a rather new solo Workamper who followed her instincts, traded an apartment for an RV, and discovered a lifestyle that finally felt right for her.

    Shellie Schaffer caught the travel bug about 10 years ago, but it became real three years ago when she realized she was miserable living in apartments and needed a change.

    What started as a desire to be happier turned into a full-time RV lifestyle that she says she never wants to leave.

    In this episode, Shellie talks about living full time in an RV with her cat, carrying a motorcycle for day-to-day transportation, and why freedom has always been at the center of her life.

    With more than 200,000 miles of motorcycle travel behind her and a background in psychology and mental health, she brings a unique perspective to the road.

    She also shares what she is looking for next as she begins exploring Workamping opportunities, why being a campground host appeals to her, and what employers should know about the skills and mindset she brings to the table.

    If you are curious about solo RVing, Workamping later in life, or trusting yourself enough to make a big lifestyle shift without overthinking it, then you will enjoy this conversation with Shellie.

    Her story is a great reminder that sometimes you do not need years of planning or approval from others to know what is right for you.

    Once Shellie realized that RV living made her happy, she committed to it fully and has never looked back.

    Traveling with a motorcycle allows her to truly explore the places she visits rather than just do the touristy stuff weekend travelers often do.

    With a background in psychology and mental health, Shellie understands how to work with people, resolve conflict and stay grounded in challenging situations – all of which are traits campground employers value.

    Shellie also offered thoughtful advice for others considering the RV or Workamping lifestyle, especially solo travelers.

    From developing street smarts to understanding your personal support systems, Shellie spoke honestly about what it takes to feel safe, confident and fulfilled on the road.

    If you would like to connect with Shellie, ask her questions or potentially discuss Workamping opportunities, feel free to email her at shelscha43 @ yahoo.com.

    This episode is sponsored by Workamper News. If you have more questions than answers when it comes to the Workamping and RVing lifestyle, then Workamper News can help.

    Listen to their free Workamping Q&A videos to get your questions answered. Each video answers questions submitted by folks, just like you, who are learning about the RV lifestyle, just getting started, or have been Workamping for a while.

    The videos cover topics like what kind of Workamping jobs are out there, what do these jobs pay, tips for writing your Workamper resume, questions to ask an employer, what type of RV is best, how to get your mail as an RVer, and much more!

    Listen to detailed answers now by watching the videos at workamper.com/answers.

    In the description of each video, you’ll find a list of questions that were answered so you can quickly jump to the answers you want to hear.

    Check out the free Workamping Q&A videos to get your questions answered today.

    I hope this conversation encourages you to explore what kind of freedom and fulfillment might be waiting for you on the road. I’ll have another fun interview on the next episode of The Workamper Show. Thanks for listening!

    Más Menos
    24 m
  • In Episode 359, Lamont Landrum and Vicky Childers share their Workamping experiences
    Dec 2 2025

    This week, I am interviewing a couple who has been RVing for nearly five years, and they have some great advice on ways people and companies can help make the RV lifestyle more inviting to all people.

    Vicky Childers and Lamont Landrum have been RVing for nearly five years after deciding they wanted to build a different kind of life together.

    When they first started dating, both felt the pull to travel. Vicky was already working remotely and Lamont wanted to find a way to see more of the world.

    They bought their first RV in 2019 and hit the road without even knowing Workamping existed.

    When the pandemic brought Lamont’s handyman business to a halt, they discovered Workamping through friends and realized it was the perfect way for him to work while they traveled.

    Since then, they have held a variety of jobs across the country. Lamont’s early positions included maintenance work at Buffalo Bill Village in Cody, Wyo., followed by multiple seasons at the beet harvest, which later promoted him to assistant foreman.

    He has also done volunteer work and boardwalk support at an Audubon preserve in Florida, maintenance and infrastructure upgrades in Texas, site support on Mackinac Island in Michigan, camp hosting in Colorado, and even served as an area manager for a campground company.

    Along the way, they upgraded their RV, explored new regions, and built a lifestyle centered on adventure, discovery and meaningful work.

    They shared what they love about this lifestyle, including the chance to live in beautiful locations for entire seasons, explore mountains, coastlines and national treasures at their own pace.

    Doing so allows them to enjoy a sense of freedom that traditional jobs rarely allow.

    Lamont also emphasized how rewarding it has been to work for employers who recognize effort and integrity. That’s especially true during the beet harvest, where his hard work led to increasing responsibilities year after year.

    Vicky and Lamont also spoke about how Workamping can be made more inviting to minorities, especially people who may not see themselves represented in outdoor spaces.

    They noted that many people simply don’t know this lifestyle is an option or doubt they would be welcomed.

    Lamont and Vicky suggested that employers and the industry can reach more people by helping newcomers “dip their toes in” to the Workamping lifestyle. They can do that in several ways, such as:

    • Offering employee housing instead of requiring everyone to have an RV.
    • Creating opportunities for people to simply visit campgrounds and ask questions.
    • Sharing stories showing that most travelers are welcoming and supportive.

    They stressed that negative encounters do happen, but they are rare. The overwhelming majority of places they have visited have been friendly and accepting.

    If you would like to connect with Vicky and Lamont, you can find Vicky on Facebook and Instagram under the name Victoria Childers.

    That’s all for this week’s show. Would you like to be featured in an upcoming episode of The Workamper Show? I encourage you to schedule an interview with me at workampershow.com.

    We’d love to hear about your Workamping experiences, how you got started RVing, and what you love and dislike about the RVing lifestyle. Help others explore all the different ways to live this great lifestyle by sharing your story.

    If you are an employer of Workampers,we invite you to be on the podcast, too. Share all of the details of your Workamping jobs in a future episode. It only costs a little bit of your time.

    Schedule an interview with me today by going to workampershow.com. You’ll find the schedule buttons at the bottom of the home page.

    I will have another fun interview on the next episode of The Workamper Show. Thanks for listening!

    Más Menos
    51 m
  • In Episode 358, Jim Wheeler describes Love’s Travel Stops’ new RV sites
    Nov 25 2025

    On this week’s show, I will be talking with someone who has a solution for where to park your RV safely overnight when traveling between destinations.

    I am speaking with Jim Wheeler. He is the director of RV operations for Love’s Travel Stops.

    Jim oversees the nationwide rollout of Love’s fast-growing network of overnight RV sites connected to or adjacent to Love’s stores.

    In this interview, Jim explains why Love’s created these sites, the types of amenities offered, how RVers can reserve a spot, and why the program has become so popular with travelers who want a safe, convenient place to stay right off the highway.

    Jim said their overnight RV sites were designed to provide RVers with a convenient option that includes electrical power, potable water, Wi-Fi and dump stations.

    Best of all, the overnight RV spaces are located just steps from the fuel pumps, restaurants, stores and dog parks RVers already rely upon when traveling.

    Jim talked about the advantages of reserving space by using the free Love’s Connect app. It allows travelers to see all available locations, reserve a site, activate the power pedestal and even receive discounted pricing.

    He also described Love’s larger RV parks, which offer extended-stay options along with amenities like restrooms, showers, laundry, playgrounds and even pickleball courts.

    If you would like to learn more or explore RV site availability along your route, download the Love’s Connect app. It is available for Android and Apple users. Or, for additional information about the company, visit www.loves.com.

    Today’s episode is sponsored by Workamper News. Much more than just a job-listing website, when you put the tools of this professional service into action, you’ll find out just how easy it can be to turn your Workamping dreams into reality.

    A Workamper membership opens the door to a one-stop-shop for all-things Workamping. Being the original resource for Workamping, you’ll find the largest number of job listings, be able to connect with a community of Workampers, and view resources compiled by experts who have been enjoying the RV lifestyle for many years.

    If you’re serious about leading a successful and enjoyable Workamping lifestyle, then membership is for you. Join today at www.workamper.com. Embark on new adventures today with the support of Workamper News behind you!

    That’s all for this week’s show. Next time, I will be speaking with a couple who has been Workamping for five years and has enjoyed some great jobs.

    As a mixed race couple, they will also share their thoughts about making Workamping more inviting for all types of people. I’ll have that interview on the next episode of The Workamper Show.

    All of us at the Workamper organization wish you a very happy Thanksgiving holiday. We are all very grateful for you and your support of the Workamper movement. Thank you for listening!

    Más Menos
    18 m
  • In Episode 357, solo RVer and author Sam Gennawey offers great advice from 7 years of RVing
    Nov 18 2025

    This week, I will be speaking with a solo RVer who has found tremendous purpose as a volunteer Workamper for seven years, while starting an online platform to share his adventures.

    My guest today is Sam Gennawey, an urban planner turned full-time RVer who has been living on the road for more than seven years.

    What began as a search for a more intentional future quickly became a lifestyle that allowed Sam to explore America’s most remarkable places while keeping his expenses manageable.

    Sam travels in a 2012 Airstream Interstate, which is a black Mercedes-based touring van he affectionately calls Darlene.

    He has put nearly 200,000 miles on the vehicle, boondocking across the country, sleeping in unexpected places, such as minor league ballparks, and navigating everything from flat plains to rugged mountain passes.

    Along the way, he has lived and worked in some of America’s most iconic national parks as a volunteer interpreter and campground host.

    Big Bend, Death Valley, the Redwoods, North Cascades, Aztec Ruins and Sequoia National Park are just a few of the places that have become temporary “home.”

    Sam’s experiences offer a valuable look at the realities, challenges and joys of long-term RV travel, and how volunteering can make the lifestyle more sustainable, meaningful and affordable.

    Sam offered terrific advice for anyone considering the RV lifestyle, especially those people over 60 who want to travel with purpose.

    He encouraged people to take an honest assessment of their personalities to determine whether they enjoy long stretches of solitude or if they’d thrive working alongside other people.

    Whichever the case, he said the lifestyle requires flexibility, resilience and the willingness to work through unexpected weather, repairs and delays.

    He noted that RVing is often more difficult and more expensive than people expect, which is why maintaining a realistic mindset is essential.

    Something will always need attention or break, and the weather will not always cooperate. Yet the rewards are immense.

    Living inside national parks, hiking trails before the gates open, seeing landscapes without crowds and learning from park rangers are opportunities that don’t come with any other lifestyle.

    Sam also urged newcomers to travel like a bison by walking into challenges rather than running from them, because persistence helps you reach the other side faster.

    For him, volunteering has been the key to keeping expenses low, preserving his van’s lifespan, and experiencing America’s popular places more deeply.

    People can follow Sam’s ongoing travels, photos and stories on Facebook. He posts regularly about the parks he lives in, the routes he takes and the adventures that shape his life on the road. You can also buy Sam’s book, “Sacred Landscapes,” on Amazon and in other bookstores.

    If you’d like to be inspired by someone who is squeezing every drop out of life, you’ll enjoy connecting with Sam and following his remarkable journey.

    Would you like to be featured in an upcoming episode of The Workamper Show? I encourage you to schedule an interview with me at workampershow.com.

    We’d love to hear about your Workamping experiences, how you got started RVing, and what you love and dislike about the RVing lifestyle. Help others explore all the different ways to live this great lifestyle by sharing your story.

    If you are an employer of Workampers – we invite you to be on the podcast, too. Share all of the details of your Workamping jobs in a future episode. It only costs a little bit of your time.

    Schedule an interview with me today by going to workampershow.com. You’ll find the schedule buttons at the bottom of the home page.

    That’s all for this week’s show. Next time, I will be speaking with an executive from Love’s Travel Stops about the new overnight RV parks the company is developing all over the country.

    Más Menos
    42 m
  • Episode 356 describes a special training opportunity for Workampers at the COE Expo
    Nov 12 2025
    This week I am speaking with two representatives from the Campground Owners Expo about a new opportunity for Workampers to get training. Attending the sessions can help improve their chances of getting a job working at a campground and have more success at those jobs. Today I am speaking with Lori Severson and Danielle Todd from the Campground Owners Expo. The expo is an annual gathering attended by campground owners and industry suppliers from all over North America. For the first time, the event will include a special training track designed specifically for Workampers. The purpose of the Workamper portion of the expo is to improve the guest experience at campgrounds by training the people who work on the front lines. Workampers play a key role in welcoming guests, answering questions, helping with activities, operating stores and supporting campground operations in many different ways. Proper training elevates both the campground’s service level and the Workamper’s confidence and skills. During the event, Workampers will learn more about the campground industry, the types of jobs typically available and how to work more effectively with guests and campground owners. Sessions will cover customer service, communication, activity planning, dealing with difficult situations and understanding campground technology systems. There will also be optional hands-on RV technical training to help Workampers troubleshoot common issues either for themselves or for guests. Workampers will also have the chance to walk the expo floor to see the products, tools, reservation systems, equipment, services and operational solutions that campground owners use in their businesses. They will meet campground owners from across the country, and they will be able to build relationships directly rather than finding jobs being based solely on an online resume. The Campground Owners Expo takes place Dec. 3 to 6 in Branson, Mo. The Workamper sessions and networking events occur at the beginning of the expo. Workampers are invited to attend a special mixer to meet campground owners and other participants, and they are also welcome at the main dinner that takes place during the event. Registration for Workampers is free. The organizers simply ask participants to register in advance and complete a short online introductory course before attending. This ensures that Workampers arrive with a basic understanding of the industry and are prepared to benefit fully from the in-person sessions. Workampers will receive certificates confirming completion of the online course and any workshops they attend. These certificates can be used to strengthen resumes and demonstrate ongoing professional development. Attending the Campground Owners Expo gives Workampers the opportunity to expand their network, talk with campground owners face to face, and ask important questions about job expectations and opportunities. It also helps Workampers to feel more confident in choosing positions that are a good fit and in presenting themselves professionally. Anyone interested in attending should register soon to reserve space and confirm meal counts. They can register by visiting www.campgroundownersexpo.com and clicking on the Workampers link in the upper right. This event offers Workampers a valuable chance to learn, grow and connect with people in the outdoor hospitality community. Today’s episode is sponsored by Workamper News. Much more than just a job-listing website, when you put the tools of this professional service into action, you’ll find out just how easy it can be to turn your Workamping dreams into reality. A Workamper membership opens the door to a one-stop-shop for all-things Workamping. Being the original resource for Workamping, you’ll find the largest number of job listings, be able to connect with a community of Workampers, and view resources compiled by experts who have been enjoying the RV lifestyle for many years. If you’re serious about leading a successful and enjoyable Workamping lifestyle, then membership is for you. Join today at www.workamper.com. Embark on new adventures today with the support of Workamper News behind you! That’s all I have for this week’s show. Next time, I will be speaking with an RVer who has been full-timing for six years and put 175,000 miles on his motorhome. He has enjoyed some incredible adventures and he’ll share them on the show. Thanks for listening!
    Más Menos
    38 m