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Beyond the Wheel

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Rating
★★★★★
4.7
from
36 reviews
This podcast has
220 episodes
Language
English
Explicit
No
Date created
2018/09/18
Latest episode
2026/01/29
Average duration
47 min.
Release period
17 days

Description

A podcast about RV travel, products, manufacturers, destinations, and lifestyle. We explore behind the scenes of everything that makes RV travel possible.

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Podcast episodes

Check latest episodes from Beyond the Wheel podcast


So You Want to Be an RVer?
2026/01/29
Thinking about becoming an RVer? Already on the road and wondering why it still feels harder than expected?This episode is for you. RV life looks simple from the outside, but the reality hits fast once plans change, weather turns, budgets stretch, and things break. In this episode of Beyond The Wheel, we break down what it actually takes to become an RVer and stay sane doing it. This isn’t about what RV to buy or which gadgets to install. It’s about mindset, flexibility, planning, and budgeting for real life on the road. What We Cover in This Episode Flexibility Is the Real Skill Why rigid schedules don’t survive RV life and how learning to plan in pencil makes the experience more enjoyable and far less stressful. Keeping Your Cool When Things Go Wrong From breakdowns to bad weather, things will go sideways. We talk about what actually goes wrong most often and how experienced RVers stay calm while new RVers panic. Planning Without Overplanning How to plan the things that matter like routes, fuel, height, power, and access without killing the fun by over-scheduling every mile and minute. Budgeting for Reality, Not Instagram The real costs of RV life, why budgets should be ranges not fixed numbers, and the expenses nobody mentions when you’re just getting startedIs RV Life Really for You? Honest talk about who thrives in RV life, who struggles, and why there’s no “right” way to do it. Key Takeaways Flexibility matters more than gear Calm decision-making beats control Overplanning creates stress, not safety RV budgets are unpredictable by nature RV life evolves and that’s normal Final Thought Becoming an RVer isn’t about being ready.It’s about being adaptable. Join the Conversation If this episode helped you, share it with someone who’s RV-curious or just starting out.Have a “first RV disaster” story? We want to hear it. Follow Beyond The Wheel for more honest conversations about RV life, the industry, and what really happens once you hit the road. The post So You Want to Be an RVer? appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post So You Want to Be an RVer? appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.
Why Keeping Your RV Beats Buying New
2026/01/15
Everyone keeps asking us when we’re upgrading.The truth is… we already did. In this episode, Kenny and Sean get real about why they are both still traveling in RVs that are years old and why, for most RVers, keeping what you already own and upgrading it smartly is often a better move than buying brand new. Kenny’s Class A just turned ten years old. Sean’s rig is over five. Between the two of them, they’ve logged thousands of miles, countless repairs, upgrades, and lessons that no sales brochure can teach. This conversation isn’t anti new RVs. It’s pro smart ownership. If you’ve ever felt pressure to trade in your rig because it feels outdated, this episode will change how you look at what you already own. In this episode we cover • Why the RV industry constantly pushes the “upgrade cycle”• How social media makes perfectly good RVs feel old• The hidden costs of buying new that no one talks about• Why knowing your rig is more valuable than owning a new one• How targeted upgrades can outperform a brand new RV• The stress and uncertainty that comes with new ownership• When it actually does make sense to buy new• Why most RVers don’t need a new RV, they need a better version of the one they already have Why this matters RVs are not phones.They are houses that go through earthquakes. New does not automatically mean better. Often it just means unproven. By keeping and upgrading their rigs, Kenny and Sean have built RVs that are tailored to their exact travel style, off grid needs, and comfort. That knowledge, reliability, and confidence is something money cannot buy off a dealer lot. Who this episode is for • RVers feeling pressure to upgrade• Full timers trying to stretch their budget• Weekend campers who love their current rig• Anyone who wants less stress and more time on the road The big takeaway Most RVers do not need a new RV.They need a smarter version of the one they already have. The post Why Keeping Your RV Beats Buying New appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post Why Keeping Your RV Beats Buying New appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.
Beyond the Wheel – Driver’s Edition Dec 2025
2026/01/01
Steady Sales, Strategic Moves, and a Market Growing Up In this Driver’s Edition episode of Beyond the Wheel, Kenny takes listeners behind the scenes of the RV industry to unpack what’s really happening right now. Using recent shipment numbers, dealer dynamics, and major industry moves, this episode cuts through the noise to explain where the market stands and what it means for buyers, owners, and anyone watching the RV space. This isn’t a boom-and-bust story. It’s a look at an industry maturing, recalibrating, and adapting to a more intentional consumer. In this episode, we cover: Recent RV shipment numbers from the last quarter and what they actually signal Why wholesale shipments and retail sales don’t always tell the same story How buyer behavior has shifted toward payments, value, and long-term ownership Why some RVs are being heavily discounted while others hold firm on price Inventory pressure, floorplan costs, and the reality dealers are managing today What types of RVs are still selling well and why Interior and upholstery trends driven by real-world use, not showroom flash Quiet but meaningful changes in RV build philosophy and serviceability RV technology that genuinely improves the camping experience The Lazy Days shakeup: how Camping World and Campers Inn split the dealership group What dealer consolidation means for consumers, service, and the future of the industry Key takeaways: RV shipments show stability, not chaos Buyers haven’t disappeared, they’ve become more selective Dealer consolidation reflects tighter margins and a more disciplined market The most important RV improvements today are often the least flashy Whether you’re shopping for your next rig, considering upgrades, or just want a clearer picture of where the RV industry is headed, this Driver’s Edition gives you the context you need without the hype. The post Beyond the Wheel – Driver’s Edition Dec 2025 appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post Beyond the Wheel – Driver’s Edition Dec 2025 appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.
When Your Dog Becomes an Author – The Story Behind Belle’s RV Adventures
2025/12/18
In this special episode of Beyond the Wheel, Sean flips the mic and interviews Kenny about the creation of his first children’s book, Belle’s RV Adventures. What started as life on the road with a dog named Belle turned into a children’s book designed to spark curiosity, imagination, and a love for travel. Kenny shares why he decided to turn Belle’s real RV travels into a story for kids, what the self-publishing process actually looks like, and what surprised him most about becoming a first-time author. This episode pulls back the curtain on the creative process, the emotional side of launching a book, and how storytelling can connect families to the RV lifestyle in a whole new way. In This Episode, We Cover: Why Belle became the main character How real RV travels inspired the story The decision to create a children’s book Lessons learned from self-publishing What this book means for families who love adventure What’s next for Belle’s RV Adventures About the Book Belle’s RV Adventures is a children’s book told from the perspective of Belle, a curious dog who experiences the world from the passenger seat of an RV. The story celebrates travel, discovery, and seeing the world through fresh eyes.  Get the book here:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0G42HQH59 Don’t Forget If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, leave a review, and share it with someone who loves RVing, travel, or reading with their kids. The post When Your Dog Becomes an Author – The Story Behind Belle’s RV Adventures appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post When Your Dog Becomes an Author – The Story Behind Belle’s RV Adventures appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.
Why FMCA Became FRVA with Doug and Meagan
2025/12/02
Episode Summary:In this episode we sit down with Doug Uhlenbrock and Meagan Butler from the newly renamed FRVA. If you have known FMCA for years and wondered why the name changed or what it means for RV owners, this conversation clears it up. We talk about the thought process behind the rebrand, the challenges of changing a long-standing identity, and how FRVA plans to shape the future of RV community support, events, and member benefits. Doug and Meagan share what the organization has learned from decades of serving RV owners and how they are adapting to a broader and more modern RV audience. Whether you are a long-time member or hearing the name FRVA for the first time, this episode gives context, clarity, and a look at what is coming next. Topics Covered:• Why FMCA changed its name and what FRVA represents• How the rebranding process unfolded behind the scenes• What the updated mission means for current and future members• How RV ownership has changed and what FRVA is doing to stay relevant• New and upcoming programs and benefits• Reactions from long time members and the broader RV community• The future vision for advocacy, education, and events The post Why FMCA Became FRVA with Doug and Meagan appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post Why FMCA Became FRVA with Doug and Meagan appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.
When Things Go Wrong While RVing
2025/11/09
Even the most seasoned RVers know — things will go wrong eventually. In this episode, Kenny and Sean share their personal stories of roadside disasters, mechanical failures, and how they handled them without losing their cool (well, mostly). Kenny recounts his recent breakdown that left his RV immobile after a locked brake caliper destroyed his rear axle. Sean chimes in with his own tales of mishaps and misadventures from the road. Together, they dive into what it really takes to stay calm, safe, and sane when your home on wheels decides to quit rolling. Topics Covered: What happened during Kenny’s major brake failure and tow experience Sean’s stories of unexpected mechanical breakdowns How to safely manage roadside emergencies Why patience, humor, and preparation are key to surviving RV life Key Takeaway:RVing isn’t about if something will go wrong — it’s about how you handle it when it does. From breakdowns to busted axles, these are the moments that test your resolve and remind you why community, preparation, and flexibility matter most. Have your own RV breakdown story? Share it with us — your experience might just make it into a future episode! The post When Things Go Wrong While RVing appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post When Things Go Wrong While RVing appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.
More People Living in RVs — But Not Traveling
2025/10/09
In this episode of Beyond the Wheel, Kenny and Sean dive into a growing trend that’s reshaping RV life: people living full-time in RVs without traveling. The image of the open road is what we all think of when we picture RV life, but for hundreds of thousands of people, that’s not the reality anymore. Since 2021, the number of Americans living full-time in RVs has nearly doubled — climbing from about 240,000 to close to half a million. For some, it’s a smart financial move in a housing market that’s gone off the rails. For others, it’s a lifestyle choice built around simplicity, minimalism, or just staying close to work or family. Kenny and Sean break down why so many are choosing to stay put, what life actually looks like in a stationary RV, and how the RV industry might adapt to serve this growing community. The RV lifestyle is evolving. It’s not just about freedom of the road anymore — it’s about freedom from crushing housing costs. Whether it’s by choice or necessity, stationary RV living is here to stay, and it’s reshaping what “RV life” really means. The post More People Living in RVs — But Not Traveling appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post More People Living in RVs — But Not Traveling appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.
Hershey RV Show & State of RVing – What the Numbers Really Mean
2025/09/30
In this episode of Beyond the Wheel: Drivers Edition, Kenny and Sean dive into the 2025 Hershey RV Show attendance numbers and talk with you about what those numbers really say about the RV industry right now. We break down: Why attendance dipped slightly from 2024 but still beat 2023. What dealers and manufacturers are saying about sales and consumer confidence. Which RVs sold well at Hershey—and which ones didn’t move as quickly. A full Market Watch segment on the state of RVing in 2025—including interest rates, shipment data, market size projections, and where the industry is headed. Whether you’re a buyer, dealer, or just an RV enthusiast, this episode will help you understand where RVing stands now and what’s next. Key Topics Covered Hershey RV Show 2025 Attendance: 2025: 45,813 visitors 2024: 47,075 visitors 2023: 45,535 visitors Dealer & Manufacturer Reactions: PRVCA: “Mixed bag as far as sales … some record shows, others flat.” Winnebago Industries: Motorized RVs strong, towables steady. Ember RV: “Record-breaking show … quality attendees ready to buy.” What’s Selling vs. What’s Not: Motorized rigs slightly outperform towables. Mid-range price points see steady interest; high-end rigs hit by financing costs. Market Watch: State of RVing 2025 Shipments up 14% in Q1 2025 vs Q1 2024. Market projected to hit $50B by 2030. Interest rates & consumer confidence remain headwinds. Growth expected in value RVs, off-grid features, and lighter towables. Looking Ahead: What to expect in 2026 & beyond: affordability, innovation, and market stability. Why You Should Listen If you’ve been wondering whether now is the right time to buy an RV, or you’re curious about the future of the RV market, this episode brings you the numbers, the reactions, and the big-picture analysis you need to make sense of it all. Resources & Links Hershey RV Show Attendance Report RVIA Shipment Reports RV Industry Trends 2025 The post Hershey RV Show & State of RVing – What the Numbers Really Mean appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post Hershey RV Show & State of RVing – What the Numbers Really Mean appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.
RV Time Capsule
2025/09/04
RVing Time Capsules: How RV Travel Has Changed in the Last Decade How has RVing changed since we first hit the road? In this episode of Beyond the Wheel, Sean and Kenny look back on their RVing journeys — Sean starting in 2014, Kenny in 2016 — and compare those early days to how travel looks today. From rookie mistakes and outdated gear to today’s must-have technology, they reflect on what’s changed, what’s stayed the same, and what trends caught them by surprise. The conversation then shifts forward: where will RVing and Overlanding be in another 10 years? Will we see electric rigs, smarter systems, or new cultural shifts that redefine life on the road? What you’ll hear in this episode: How our first years of RVing looked vs. today Gear that became obsolete — and the upgrades we can’t live without Surprising trends in RV culture and community Predictions for what RVing/Overlanding will look like in 2035 Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just starting out, this episode is a chance to reflect on your own “RVing time capsule” — what you’ve left behind, and what you’ve added along the way. Link to MilitaryCampgrounds.US  We want to hear from you! Share your must-have gear and your predictions for the future of RVing by emailing us at [email protected] [email protected] . The post RV Time Capsule appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post RV Time Capsule appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.
RVing for Your Passions
2025/08/25
Episode Overview In this episode of Beyond the Wheel, Sean and Kenny dive into a new way to think about RV travel: passion-driven RV adventures. Instead of just asking “Where should we go?”, they challenge you to ask “What do I love—and how can I build a trip around it?” From foodies chasing BBQ trails to photographers hunting the perfect sunrise shot, passion-driven RVing is all about making the road work for your lifestyle, hobbies, and interests. What You’ll Hear in This Episode Defining Passion-Driven RV TravelLearn how to shift your mindset from chasing destinations to building trips around what excites you most—whether that’s food, music, history, or the outdoors. Examples of Passion ThemesExplore trip ideas built around food & drink, sports, culture, music, outdoor adventure, and even quirky roadside attractions. Why It WorksHow passion-driven trips make RVing more exciting, easier to plan, and way more memorable. Tips for Planning Your Own AdventurePractical steps for turning your passions into unforgettable RV journeys—like picking your theme, mapping it out, leaving room for surprises, budgeting for the experience, and sharing your story. Personal ReflectionsSean and Kenny share which passions they’d plan their own trips around—from Civil War history to BBQ trails—and have some fun with lighthearted banter about quirky options like chasing the “world’s largest” roadside attractions. Key Takeaway Passion-driven RVing isn’t about where the road takes you—it’s about where your passions lead. Join the Conversation What passion would you build your next RV trip around? Share your ideas with us on social media or email—we’d love to feature them in a future episode! Have comments? Reach out to us through our Contact Us page. Sponsors Battle Born Batteries Looking to get out there and stay out there? Battle Born’s lithium-ion batteries are here to power your RV, marine, and off-grid adventures. Designed as easy drop-in replacements for traditional lead acid, these reliable solutions have 2-3x the power, charge 5x faster, are 1/5th the weight, and last 10x longer. Offered in various models in unique sizes and shapes, ranging from 50Ah to a robust 270Ah, and backed by a 10-year warranty, Battle Born Batteries are built to fit your needs and power your experiences.   On the road, on the water, and off the grid … Reliable power is here! Shop now! Wholesale Warranties Buying an RV is a huge investment, and you want it fully protected. But what if your RV breaks down? The cost of repairs can be incredibly high, and you may not have the money to cover it. Wholesale Warranties offers affordable policies for RVs up to 20 years old. This is a more age-lenient policy than most RV parks we have stayed in. They have a wide selection of plans and policies so that you can find the perfect fit for your needs. Their policies are backed by a team of experienced professionals dedicated to helping you maximize your investment. Get a free quote today! We hope you enjoyed this video and wish you safe travels, but before you hit the road could you do us a favor and leave us a review or rating on your favorite podcast platform? These ratings help the show get ranked and makes it easier for new listeners to find us.  Take care all and we will catch you next time. The post RVing for Your Passions appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post RVing for Your Passions appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.
Tales from the Slide-Out
2025/08/07
Summary In this episode of Beyond the Wheel, Sean and Kenny delve into the intriguing world of RV legends, campground myths, and strange experiences encountered on the road. They explore various myths surrounding RV camping, including campground codes, overnight parking policies, and the role of technology in monitoring RV behavior. The conversation also touches on personal experiences with the paranormal and the impact of imagination while camping. Listeners share their own stories, adding to the rich tapestry of RV lore. The episode concludes with a call for listener engagement and future topic suggestions. Takeaways Some campgrounds may keep track of guest behavior. Walmart and Cracker Barrel likely do not keep lists of RVers. Dump station rumors often stem from outdated app information. Strange noises in RVs can often be attributed to wildlife. Imagination plays a significant role in interpreting sounds while camping. Conspiracy theories about RV components may not hold much truth. Technology tracks our movements for marketing purposes. Listener stories reveal the eerie side of RV camping. The RV community thrives on shared experiences and stories. Engagement with listeners is crucial for future episodes. Have comments? Reach out to us through our Contact Us page. Sponsors Battle Born Batteries Looking to get out there and stay out there? Battle Born’s lithium-ion batteries are here to power your RV, marine, and off-grid adventures. Designed as easy drop-in replacements for traditional lead acid, these reliable solutions have 2-3x the power, charge 5x faster, are 1/5th the weight, and last 10x longer. Offered in various models in unique sizes and shapes, ranging from 50Ah to a robust 270Ah, and backed by a 10-year warranty, Battle Born Batteries are built to fit your needs and power your experiences.   On the road, on the water, and off the grid … Reliable power is here! Shop now! Wholesale Warranties Buying an RV is a huge investment, and you want it fully protected. But what if your RV breaks down? The cost of repairs can be incredibly high, and you may not have the money to cover it. Wholesale Warranties offers affordable policies for RVs up to 20 years old. This is a more age-lenient policy than most RV parks we have stayed in. They have a wide selection of plans and policies so that you can find the perfect fit for your needs. Their policies are backed by a team of experienced professionals dedicated to helping you maximize your investment. Get a free quote today! We hope you enjoyed this video and wish you safe travels, but before you hit the road could you do us a favor and leave us a review or rating on your favorite podcast platform? These ratings help the show get ranked and makes it easier for new listeners to find us.  Take care all and we will catch you next time. The post Tales from the Slide-Out appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post Tales from the Slide-Out appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.
Driver’s Edition July 2025
2025/07/24
Episode Summary In this Driver’s Edition of Beyond the Wheel, Kenny kicks things off with a quick recap of his latest travels, including their first Passport America campground stay in Canada and how his new Watchdog surge protector alerted him of some potential issues. Then, it’s time for a deep dive into the latest headlines shaking up the RV world. From the all-electric Grounded G3 camper van to the industry’s current sales slowdown, they unpack what’s happening, why it matters, and how it could impact RVers like you. What We Cover in This Episode Where We’ve Been• Kenny’s first Passport America campground stay — yes, in Canada! Camperland RV Resort• Was it worth the discount?  Grounded G3 – The New EV Camper on the Block• 286-mile range, Starlink-ready, off-grid power• Is the $165k–$200k price tag justified?• Would we drive it? RV Sales Are Slowing — What That Means for Buyers• Shipments are down ~15% compared to last year• Is this just a reset or a longer trend?• Inventory glut = time for deals? VanLife Bubble Bursts?• FT reports Americans are “putting the brakes on VanLife”• What’s changed: remote work rollback, economic pressure, reality checks• Will Gen Z keep the spirit alive or go traditional? Industry Forecast: A New Normal?• RVIA projects 2025 shipments slightly up from 2024• Is this optimism—or just stabilization? Winnebago Cuts Outlook• Earnings down, job cuts coming• What Winnebago’s moves say about the market Electric & Solar Tech in Traditional RVs• Airstream, Pebble, and Ember update 2026 models• Are features like “Auto Dump” and 10kWh batteries becoming the new standard? Resources & Links Mentioned Grounded G3 EV Camper: camperreport.com VanLife Slowdown Report: ft.com RV Industry Sales Trends: rvlifestyle.com Winnebago’s Financial Update: investopedia.com Tell Us What You Think Would you go electric for your next RV?Seen any big RV deals lately?Let us know! Have comments? Reach out to us through our Contact Us page. Sponsors Battle Born Batteries Looking to get out there and stay out there? Battle Born’s lithium-ion batteries are here to power your RV, marine, and off-grid adventures. Designed as easy drop-in replacements for traditional lead acid, these reliable solutions have 2-3x the power, charge 5x faster, are 1/5th the weight, and last 10x longer. Offered in various models in unique sizes and shapes, ranging from 50Ah to a robust 270Ah, and backed by a 10-year warranty, Battle Born Batteries are built to fit your needs and power your experiences.   On the road, on the water, and off the grid … Reliable power is here! Shop now! Wholesale Warranties Buying an RV is a huge investment, and you want it fully protected. But what if your RV breaks down? The cost of repairs can be incredibly high, and you may not have the money to cover it. Wholesale Warranties offers affordable policies for RVs up to 20 years old. This is a more age-lenient policy than most RV parks we have stayed in. They have a wide selection of plans and policies so that you can find the perfect fit for your needs. Their policies are backed by a team of experienced professionals dedicated to helping you maximize your investment. Get a free quote today! We hope you enjoyed this video and wish you safe travels, but before you hit the road could you do us a favor and leave us a review or rating on your favorite podcast platform? These ratings help the show get ranked and makes it easier for new listeners to find us.  Take care all and we will catch you next time. The post Driver’s Edition July 2025 appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post Driver’s Edition July 2025 appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.
Overland Outfitters: Vintage Style, Rugged Function
2025/07/10
In this episode of Beyond The Wheel, we’re joined by Jeff and Shrinka from Overland Outfitters—makers of premium, handcrafted storage solutions for Jeeps, overland vehicles, and RVs. You’ll hear how their company combines rugged function with vintage style, and how their mission extends far beyond just selling gear. Jeff shares the design process behind their leather-and-canvas products, including details on how their real-world overlanding experience shapes each item. Shrinka opens up about the company’s origins, rooted in providing jobs and economic opportunity in her home country of India. We also talk: The difference real materials make (leather, canvas, military-grade acrylic) How product ideas come from actual trail use Their expansion into Sprinter vans and compact RVs Why they don’t mass produce and how that allows for flexibility The role of community feedback in refining new gear What’s trending in the overlanding world Whether you’re a Jeep owner, a van lifer, or just love handcrafted gear, this one’s worth a listen. Guest Links: Overland Outfitters Website Overland Outfitters on Quadratec Jeff’s Design Threads on Expedition Portal   Have comments? Reach out to us through our Contact Us page. Sponsors Battle Born Batteries Looking to get out there and stay out there? Battle Born’s lithium-ion batteries are here to power your RV, marine, and off-grid adventures. Designed as easy drop-in replacements for traditional lead acid, these reliable solutions have 2-3x the power, charge 5x faster, are 1/5th the weight, and last 10x longer. Offered in various models in unique sizes and shapes, ranging from 50Ah to a robust 270Ah, and backed by a 10-year warranty, Battle Born Batteries are built to fit your needs and power your experiences.   On the road, on the water, and off the grid … Reliable power is here! Shop now! Wholesale Warranties Buying an RV is a huge investment, and you want it fully protected. But what if your RV breaks down? The cost of repairs can be incredibly high, and you may not have the money to cover it. Wholesale Warranties offers affordable policies for RVs up to 20 years old. This is a more age-lenient policy than most RV parks we have stayed in. They have a wide selection of plans and policies so that you can find the perfect fit for your needs. Their policies are backed by a team of experienced professionals dedicated to helping you maximize your investment. Get a free quote today! We hope you enjoyed this video and wish you safe travels, but before you hit the road could you do us a favor and leave us a review or rating on your favorite podcast platform? These ratings help the show get ranked and makes it easier for new listeners to find us.  Take care all and we will catch you next time. The post Overland Outfitters: Vintage Style, Rugged Function appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post Overland Outfitters: Vintage Style, Rugged Function appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.
Protect Your RV Like a Pro: Surge Protectors & Voltage Boosters with Hughes Autoformers
2025/06/26
In this episode of Beyond The Wheel, we sit down with Brett Thomas, General Manager of Hughes Autoformers, to break down the essential (but often overlooked) gear that protects your RV’s electrical system. Brett shares why low voltage is the silent killer of modern RVs, how surge protection really works, and what makes Hughes’ products stand out—like Bluetooth monitoring, replaceable modules, and their soon-to-launch all-in-one power center. If you’ve ever wondered whether you really need both a surge protector and a voltage booster, or if you’ve assumed your current gear is “good enough,” this episode will change your thinking—and maybe save you thousands in repairs. Key Topics Covered: Brett’s hands-on role and how Hughes Autoformers has grown since 2019 The origin story of the Hughes Autoformer voltage booster What surge protectors actually do—and don’t do Why low voltage is more common and more dangerous than most RVers realize The difference between the Watchdog surge protector and the Autoformer What the new Watchdog Power Center will combine into one device How Hughes’ replaceable surge modules save you money over time Understanding joules, MOVs, and what happens when lightning strikes How to properly match your surge protector to your RV’s amperage Real-world examples of RV damage from poor power quality How the Hughes app helps monitor real-time voltage, frequency, and power draw Upcoming innovations and how customer feedback drives product design Listen If: You’ve ever plugged into a sketchy RV pedestal You thought your surge protector shuts off power (spoiler: not always) You’re unsure if you need a voltage booster You want tech that helps you prevent power damage before it happens Special Thanks: Thanks to listener Joshua Sheahan for introducing us to Brett and making this conversation happen! Have comments? Reach out to us through our Contact Us page. Sponsors Battle Born Batteries Looking to get out there and stay out there? Battle Born’s lithium-ion batteries are here to power your RV, marine, and off-grid adventures. Designed as easy drop-in replacements for traditional lead acid, these reliable solutions have 2-3x the power, charge 5x faster, are 1/5th the weight, and last 10x longer. Offered in various models in unique sizes and shapes, ranging from 50Ah to a robust 270Ah, and backed by a 10-year warranty, Battle Born Batteries are built to fit your needs and power your experiences.   On the road, on the water, and off the grid … Reliable power is here! Shop now! Wholesale Warranties Buying an RV is a huge investment, and you want it fully protected. But what if your RV breaks down? The cost of repairs can be incredibly high, and you may not have the money to cover it. Wholesale Warranties offers affordable policies for RVs up to 20 years old. This is a more age-lenient policy than most RV parks we have stayed in. They have a wide selection of plans and policies so that you can find the perfect fit for your needs. Their policies are backed by a team of experienced professionals dedicated to helping you maximize your investment. Get a free quote today! We hope you enjoyed this video and wish you safe travels, but before you hit the road could you do us a favor and leave us a review or rating on your favorite podcast platform? These ratings help the show get ranked and makes it easier for new listeners to find us.  Take care all and we will catch you next time.  The post Protect Your RV Like a Pro: Surge Protectors & Voltage Boosters with Hughes Autoformers appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post Protect Your RV Like a Pro: Surge Protectors & Voltage Boosters with Hughes Autoformers appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.
Revolutionizing Roof Rack Mounts with Michael Davis of Hard Impact Designs
2025/06/12
Episode Summary In this episode, we sit down with Michael Davis, the founder and one-man operation behind Hard Impact Designs. Michael shares how frustration with rooftop tent installs led him to invent a game-changing quick-release mounting system. What started as a DIY sketch on graph paper evolved into a durable, multifunctional solution now trusted by overlanders and beyond. Michael opens up about the startup grind—from prototyping in Atlanta to securing overseas manufacturing, dealing with tariffs, and navigating the patent process solo. He also explains how his mount system, originally built for rooftop tents, now supports everything from recovery boards to road showers and catering carts. Whether you’re a gearhead, weekend warrior, or aspiring inventor, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical insight. What You’ll Learn How a personal pain point led to an innovative mounting solution The challenges of solo entrepreneurship in the overland gear market Why Hard Impact Designs’ bracket system is more versatile than you’d think Tips for testing, manufacturing, and surviving the patent process Why community feedback helped shape the final product Links & Resources Hard Impact Designs Website Email Michael: [email protected] Follow on Instagram: @hardimpactdesigns YouTube: Hard Impact Designs on YouTube TikTok: @hardimpactdesigns Have comments? Reach out to us through our Contact Us page. Sponsors Battle Born Batteries Looking to get out there and stay out there? Battle Born’s lithium-ion batteries are here to power your RV, marine, and off-grid adventures. Designed as easy drop-in replacements for traditional lead acid, these reliable solutions have 2-3x the power, charge 5x faster, are 1/5th the weight, and last 10x longer. Offered in various models in unique sizes and shapes, ranging from 50Ah to a robust 270Ah, and backed by a 10-year warranty, Battle Born Batteries are built to fit your needs and power your experiences.   On the road, on the water, and off the grid … Reliable power is here! Shop now! Wholesale Warranties Buying an RV is a huge investment, and you want it fully protected. But what if your RV breaks down? The cost of repairs can be incredibly high, and you may not have the money to cover it. Wholesale Warranties offers affordable policies for RVs up to 20 years old. This is a more age-lenient policy than most RV parks we have stayed in. They have a wide selection of plans and policies so that you can find the perfect fit for your needs. Their policies are backed by a team of experienced professionals dedicated to helping you maximize your investment. Get a free quote today! We hope you enjoyed this video and wish you safe travels, but before you hit the road could you do us a favor and leave us a review or rating on your favorite podcast platform? These ratings help the show get ranked and makes it easier for new listeners to find us.  Take care all and we will catch you next time.  The post Revolutionizing Roof Rack Mounts with Michael Davis of Hard Impact Designs appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post Revolutionizing Roof Rack Mounts with Michael Davis of Hard Impact Designs appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

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4.7 out of 5
36 reviews
★★★★★
MegsterBee 2024/02/15
Informative and unique
This podcast is all about the RV industry and the companies, clubs, brands, and organizations that contribute to the RV community. I like that I can l...
★☆☆☆☆
Gary-Goo-69 2025/05/16
Lots of Banter - not much content
You won’t find much actually useful information on this podcast. Lots of banter back and forth and little useful information. Plenty of misinformation...
★★★★★
Dude7475 2023/07/22
Good RV Industry Source
Great podcast to hear things about the RV industry.
★★★★★
Tony & Susan 2023/04/18
Informative and a good listen!!
They hit the topics do you need and want to hear! Very worthwhile!!
★★★★★
Utahschuy 2021/07/10
Nice pod for RV peeps
This is a good pod for people with RV and TT give it a try.
★★★★★
Sisu_73 2019/07/03
Thanks for all the great info
I really love this podcast. Kenny & Sean balance each other really well in terms of personality and style, and their guests are top notch. Just perfec...
★★★☆☆
Ldevereaux 2019/12/31
Wish they could remember the name of anything
I wanted to give this a higher rating, but the podcast is nothing but too buds remembering their trip to Fort Wilderness. And the guy who laughs all t...
★★★★★
DeanCHS1980 2019/07/02
Terrific “Nuts and Bolts” RV Podcast
I enjoy listening to many RV related podcasts, but rather than focusing on travel, Sean and Kenny, with Beyond the Wheel, they focus on the gear, webs...
★★★★★
Julie-RVer 2018/10/05
Terrific RV focused podcast
This is a great podcast that is focused on the RV industry and community. I’ve really enjoyed hearing the different perspectives so far.
★☆☆☆☆
McBx4 2018/11/01
Unable to subscribe
I want to subscribe but it errors out saying there is no feed. I will try again another day but thought you might want to check it out.
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