Kerouacs Cruising | Where Off-Grid Living Meets Soulful Awakening

Money, Movement, Marriage, and Finding Balance on the RoadThis episode is a real-time campfire check-in. We talk about preparing for a cross-country journey, navigating financial stress, living in close quarters, and learning to pause rather than push. It’s an honest conversation about balance, awareness, and choosing growth—even when life feels messy and uncertain. In this episode of Kerouacs Cruising, we sit by the campfire in Bullhead City and share an unfiltered update on where we’re at — mentally, emotionally, and practically.We talk about:Preparing for a long-awaited East Coast journeyFinancial pressure, DoorDashing, and living with “enough”Deciding what to do with the property while staying nomadicHow constant togetherness can amplify inner critics and small conflictsRecognizing projection, lack, and stress before they turn into resentmentWhy pauses can be gifts instead of setbacksAlcohol, food, balance, and listening to what our bodies are asking forThe importance of slowing mornings, mindfulness, and awarenessLetting conversations rest instead of forcing resolutionThis episode isn’t about having answers. It’s about staying present in a season of transition and choosing curiosity, compassion, and communication over blame.💻 Watch this episode on YouTube: @KerouacsCruising📸 Blog & travel stories: KerouacsCruising.com💬 Instagram & Facebook: @KerouacsCruising📧 Email: [email protected]✨ Support our journey on Ko-fi: Every little bit helps us keep creating from the road! https://ko-fi.com/kerouacscruisingIf this episode moved you, the kindest thing you can do is like, subscribe, and leave a review. It’s a small action that makes a huge difference in helping us keep the journey going. 💚🩷💚🩷 Thank you for being here — your presence means everything.

What if slowing down didn’t require alcohol or numbing out? In this episode, we explore kava — a 3,000-year-old South Pacific plant — its cultural roots, calming rituals, and why it’s becoming a meaningful alternative for connection, presence, and unwinding without losing yourself.In this episode of Kerouacs Cruising, we sit down with Morgan Smith of Kalm with Kava for a grounded, honest conversation about kava — what it is, what it isn’t, and why it has been used ceremonially and socially for thousands of years across the South Pacific.We talk about:What kava actually is (and why it’s often misunderstood)The cultural and ceremonial roots of kavaNoble vs. two-day kavas and why quality mattersKava as a social and alcohol alternativeNervous system regulation and intentional ritualsWhy preparation and presence are part of the experienceClearing up myths around safety, liver concerns, and side effectsHonoring plant medicine without separating it from its peopleThis episode is for anyone curious about kava, reducing alcohol, or finding gentler ways to unwind and connect — without numbing out.💻 Watch this episode on YouTube: @KerouacsCruising📸 Blog & travel stories: KerouacsCruising.com💬 Instagram & Facebook: @KerouacsCruising📧 Email: [email protected]✨ Support our journey on Ko-fi: Every little bit helps us keep creating from the road! https://ko-fi.com/kerouacscruisingIf this episode moved you, the kindest thing you can do is like, subscribe, and leave a review. It’s a small action that makes a huge difference in helping us keep the journey going. 💚🩷💚🩷 Thank you for being here — your presence means everything.

Real-Life Hacks for Water, Power, Internet & Staying Put LongerLiving off-grid in a camper isn’t about perfection — it’s about learning as you go. In this episode, we share what six months on the road has taught us about water, power, waste, internet, and staying put longer without burning out or breaking camp every few days. After six months of living off-grid in a travel trailer, we wanted to share what’s actually working — and what we’ve had to learn the hard way.In this episode, we talk through real-life systems and habits that allow us to stay in one place for up to two weeks at a time while conserving resources and leaving no trace.We cover:Water conservation strategies that actually workHow we refill tanks without moving campGray water and black tank realities (and honest workarounds)Propane management and backup cooking solutionsWhy instant coffee is one of our biggest quality-of-life hacksSolar power, EcoFlow generators, and battery managementLighting choices that support natural rhythms and save powerInternet options on the road (Starlink vs hotspots)How “parking for success” makes everything easierThis episode is for anyone curious about camper life, boondocking, or extending their time off-grid without stress.💻 Watch this episode on YouTube: @KerouacsCruising📸 Blog & travel stories: KerouacsCruising.com💬 Instagram & Facebook: @KerouacsCruising📧 Email: [email protected]✨ Support our journey on Ko-fi: Every little bit helps us keep creating from the road! https://ko-fi.com/kerouacscruisingIf this episode moved you, the kindest thing you can do is like, subscribe, and leave a review. It’s a small action that makes a huge difference in helping us keep the journey going. 💚🩷💚🩷 Thank you for being here — your presence means everything.

Life doesn’t get easier just because we wait for perfect timing. In this episode, we share a real-time update from the road — navigating finances, family, weather, and uncertainty — and why choosing the life you want matters, even when it’s hard. Sometimes the goal isn’t clarity. It’s commitment.In this episode of Kerouacs Cruising, we check in from the road during the holidays — reflecting on travel, work, family, and the realities of making it all work without a clear roadmap.We talk honestly about:Living with uncertainty while staying optimisticUsing gig work like DoorDash to stay flexible on the roadSeasonal travel choices and adapting to weatherVisiting family and the emotional weight of time and distanceLetting go of “how” and staying focused on “what”Why struggle is inevitable — and how choosing your struggle mattersThis conversation is a reminder that life is rarely perfect, but it can still be intentional. If it’s going to be hard anyway, you might as well choose the life that feels worth the effort.💻 Watch this episode on YouTube: @KerouacsCruising📸 Blog & travel stories: KerouacsCruising.com💬 Instagram & Facebook: @KerouacsCruising📧 Email: [email protected]✨ Support our journey on Ko-fi: Every little bit helps us keep creating from the road! https://ko-fi.com/kerouacscruisingIf this episode moved you, the kindest thing you can do is like, subscribe, and leave a review. It’s a small action that makes a huge difference in helping us keep the journey going. 💚🩷💚🩷 Thank you for being here — your presence means everything.

What if your space was quietly shaping your mood, health, creativity, and relationships? In this episode, architect Talor Stewart joins us to explore how intentional environments — even tiny ones — can reduce daily friction, improve sleep, and support the life you’re trying to live, wherever you call home.In this episode, we explore:Why small friction points quietly drain energy and create resentmentHow entryways, bathrooms, and bedrooms shape daily stressSimple shifts that improve sleep, air quality, and flowWhy dedicating space to what you love increases follow-throughHow conscious home design applies to campers, rentals, and houses alike🔗 Learn more about Talor’s work: conscioushomedesign.com💻 Watch this episode on YouTube: @KerouacsCruising📸 Blog & travel stories: KerouacsCruising.com💬 Instagram & Facebook: @KerouacsCruising📧 Email: [email protected]✨ Support our journey on Ko-fi: Every little bit helps us keep creating from the road! https://ko-fi.com/kerouacscruisingIf this episode moved you, the kindest thing you can do is like, subscribe, and leave a review. It’s a small action that makes a huge difference in helping us keep the journey going. 💚🩷💚🩷 Thank you for being here — your presence means everything.

Life on the road doesn’t pause for perfect timing. In this episode, we share what it’s been like to find our rhythm while navigating unpredictable weather, financial pressure, and constant movement—learning how to balance work, rest, and presence as we continue forward without having everything figured out.In this episode of Kerouacs Cruising, we check in from the road and talk honestly about what the last few weeks have looked like—working across different towns, adapting plans when the weather turns challenging, and learning how to balance income with actually enjoying the journey.This season has been about holding steady in the unknown, and this conversation captures what that looks like day to day.We talk about:Working while traveling and using gig work to stay afloatMaking quick decisions when weather impacts safety and plansThe physical realities of camper life in rain, cold, and mudLearning when to work—and when to slow downHow our dogs help anchor us in the present momentLetting go of rigid timelines and finding a sustainable paceThis episode isn’t about having clear answers. It’s about staying flexible, grounded, and committed to the path—even when it requires constant adjustment.If you’re navigating a season where life feels unsettled but meaningful, this conversation is for you.💻 Watch this episode on YouTube: @KerouacsCruising🎧 Listen where you Stream📸 Blog & travel stories: KerouacsCruising.com💬 Instagram & Facebook: @KerouacsCruising📧 Email: [email protected]✨ Support our journey on Ko-fi: Every little bit helps us keep creating from the road! https://ko-fi.com/kerouacscruisingIf this episode moved you, the kindest thing you can do is like, subscribe, and leave a review. It’s a small action that makes a huge difference in helping us keep the journey going. 💚🩷💚🩷 Thank you for being here — your presence means everything.

When the plan falls apart, what do you do next? We share what it looks like to hold steady in the unknown—after a property sale collapses, travel plans change, and the future feels wide open and uncertain. This is an honest conversation about trust, timing, and continuing forward anyway.Sometimes life doesn’t ask for certainty—it asks for presence.In this episode of Kerouacs Cruising, we open up about a season of sudden change: a property sale falling through, financial uncertainty, canceled plans, and the emotional weight of letting go of what we thought was “next.” After spending two months in Idaho with family, we begin the journey back toward Arizona—recalibrating, regrouping, and learning how to stay grounded when the future is unclear.We talk about:Living moment by moment when long-term plans dissolveThe emotional impact of putting dreams on pauseBalancing family, travel, finances, and personal identityLessons from mindfulness practice and slowing downWhy the “perfect time” rarely arrivesTrusting that life can still unfold—even without answersChoosing progress over paralysis in the messy middleThis episode was recorded while camped near Paiute State Park, a quiet and beautiful place that reminded us how much clarity can come from simply being present.If you’re feeling stuck between what was and what’s next, this conversation is for you.💻 Watch this episode on YouTube: @KerouacsCruising📸 Blog & travel stories: KerouacsCruising.com💬 Instagram & Facebook: @KerouacsCruising📧 Email: [email protected]✨ Support our journey on Ko-fi: Every little bit helps us keep creating from the road! https://ko-fi.com/kerouacscruisingIf this episode moved you, the kindest thing you can do is like, subscribe, and leave a review. It’s a small action that makes a huge difference in helping us keep the journey going. 💚🩷💚🩷 Thank you for being here — your presence means everything.

A quick recap of the last year and optimism for the year ahead.See you next year!

If you’re heading into family gatherings with an inner critic (or a loud uncle), this one’s for you! Your inner critic doesn’t have to drive your life. In this powerful conversation, therapist and hypnotherapist Dr. Margaret Cochran shares a simple “bus” mindfulness tool to name the loud voice in your head, stop arguing with it, and keep moving toward your goals—without toxic positivity.In this episode of Kerouacs Cruising, we talk about the inner critic, healing old wounds, and why “words create realities.” Dr. Cochran breaks down a mindfulness practice you’ll remember forever: you’re the driver of the bus, and your thoughts are passengers—including the ones that shout fear, shame, and “you didn’t do it right.”We also explore:Why fighting the inner critic drains your energy (and stalls your momentum)How to name the voice and keep driving anywayThe “hole in the sidewalk” pattern—and the steps to finally choose a new roadCognitive distortions, narcissistic family systems, and why kids internalize blameA simple “three questions” reset when you’re spiralingA 28–30 day gratitude practice that can shift your brain over timeBoundaries at family gatherings: limits, exit plans, and not taking the baitA grounding meditation: Embracing the Golden LightManifestation vs. “toxic positivity”: you can’t clean the kitchen if you won’t see the dirtThe question that cuts through fear: What would I do if I weren’t afraid?Connect with Dr. Margaret Cochran: Website: DrCochran.comMore from us: Blog + episode resources: kerouacscruising.com Email: [email protected] Follow: @kerouacscruising (IG/FB)

We’re back with a fan-favorite format: Road Trip Table Topics! From moody family members (spoiler: it’s not who you think) to UFO stories, favorite cities, dream souvenirs, and the greatest athlete debate—this episode is a fun, honest ride with plenty of laughs and a few surprisingly deep moments.💻 Watch this episode on YouTube: @KerouacsCruising📸 Blog & travel stories: KerouacsCruising.com💬 Instagram & Facebook: @KerouacCruising📧 Email: [email protected]✨ Support our journey on Ko-fi: Every little bit helps us keep creating from the road! https://ko-fi.com/kerouacscruisingIf you enjoyed this episode, the kindest thing you can do is like, subscribe, and leave a review. It’s a small action that makes a huge difference in helping us keep the journey going. 💚🩷💚🩷 Thank you for being here — your presence means everything.

What do you do when a botched surgery leaves you without an Achilles tendon… and a therapist tells you you’ll be “compromised for the rest of your life”? In this episode, author and hiker Jo Giese shares how she clawed her way back to the trail, one waterfall, lucky stone, and hopeful step at a time.When a “routine” Achilles repair went horribly wrong, doctors told Jo Giese that life as she knew it was over. The Achilles died, infection set in, and even a trusted PT told her she’d be compromised forever.But Jo refused to accept that story.In this conversation, Jo shares how she went from barely able to walk to becoming what doctors now call a medical outlier — the 0.01% of people who recover function without an Achilles tendon. With brutal honesty and a lot of humor, she talks about rebuilding strength, finding the right medical team, and why killing someone’s hope is one of the worst things we can do.We also dive into:Why some people succumb to injury while others overcome itHow waterfalls, wild places, and “waterfall medicine” became a big part of Jo’s healingThe importance of community: doctors, therapists, friends, and the people who simply show upWhy Jo is firmly against hiking alone in remote places — and how to find safer ways to adventureThe joy of lucky stones, “walkie talkies” walking groups, and discovering that your pace doesn’t define your worthJo’s upcoming memoir, You’ll Never Walk Alone: A Hiker’s Memoir of Adventure, Tragedy, and Defying the Odds, releases February 10, 2026 — and this conversation is a beautiful preview of the grit, vulnerability, and awe packed into her story.🎧 Listen if you’re navigating injury, burnout, or big life change and need a reminder that your body — and your spirit — might be capable of far more than you’ve been told.💻 Watch this episode on YouTube: @KerouacsCruising📸 Blog & travel stories: KerouacsCruising.com💬 Instagram & Facebook: @KerouacCruising📧 Email: [email protected]✨ Support our journey on Ko-fi: Every little bit helps us keep creating from the road! If this episode moved you, the kindest thing you can do is like, subscribe, and leave a review. It’s a small action that makes a huge difference in helping us keep the journey going. 💚🩷💚🩷 Thank you for being here — your presence means everything.

This week threw us a curveball we truly didn’t expect.While scouting hunting camps deep in the Idaho forest, our truck suddenly refused to shift into gear — leaving us stranded on a narrow service road with no cell service, three dogs, wildfire smoke drifting overhead, and a drop-off just a few feet away. What followed was equal parts stressful, hilarious, and oddly synchronistic.In this episode we share:• The moment the truck broke down — and why we’re lucky it happened the way it did• The zip-tie solution that saved the day• The surprising discovery of a potential property with a creek running right through it• Our favorite riverside camp yet (dogs included)• How wildfire closures are changing hunting season plans• Why the hardest moments on the road often lead to the clarity we needed🎥 Watch this episode on YouTube: @KerouacsCruising📸 Blog & travel stories: KerouacsCruising.com💬 Instagram & Facebook: @KerouacCruising📧 Email: [email protected]✨ Support our journey on Ko-fi: Every little bit helps us keep creating from the road! If this episode moved you, the kindest thing you can do is like, subscribe, and leave a review. It’s a small action that makes a huge difference in helping us keep the journey going.💚🩷💚🩷 Thank you for being here — your presence means everything.Let us know: have you ever had a road-life crisis turn into a blessing?

We are grateful for all of our friends, family supporters and everyone joining our journey, as we figure out this thing called life together! We hope you have a wonderful weekend, see you next week for our next adventure episode 💚🩷

What if the real magic of travel isn’t the views, but the people you meet along the way? In this episode, we sit down with traveler and memoirist Melissa Rodway to talk about backpacking Southeast Asia, travel fatigue, leech-filled jungle treks, and why some of our most authentic selves show up far from home.Canadian traveler, writer, and podcast host Melissa Rodway joins us to share the real story behind her travel memoir The People You Meet: Luxury, Leeches, Love & Lao-Lao with a Host of Interesting Characters in Southeast Asia.Her love of adventure started early—moving from small-town Canada to a bush community outside Perth, Australia as a kid. Years later, a four-month trip through Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and China became the backbone of her book and completely changed her relationship with travel, writing, and herself.In this conversation, we explore:How a “once in a lifetime” trip turned into a raw, funny, and honest travel memoirThe jungle trek in Laos that went very, very differently than expectedWhat travel fatigue actually feels like—and how to know when it’s time to go homeWhy the people you meet matter more than the places you seeThe strange freedom of being more yourself when you’re far from homeWhy it’s never too late to start traveling (or to finally write the book that’s been tugging at you)If you’ve ever dreamed about backpacking Asia, traveling solo, or simply reconnecting with your authentic self, this episode will give you both permission and a gentle nudge out the door.All Things Melissa:The People You MeetInstagram: @fly_travel_mediaWebsite: https://flyrodway.comFacebook: FLYTravelMedia💻 Watch this episode on YouTube: @KerouacsCruising📸 Blog & travel stories: KerouacsCruising.com💬 Instagram & Facebook: @KerouacCruising📧 Email: [email protected]✨ Support our journey on Ko-fi: Every little bit helps us keep creating from the road! If this episode moved you, the kindest thing you can do is like, subscribe, and leave a review. It’s a small action that makes a huge difference in helping us keep the journey going. 💚💗

We finally made it to North Idaho — and this week, we’re taking you with us as we tour a remote one-acre property deep in the mountains. The road is wild, the views are unreal, and the reality check hits hard. Is this the spot where our new life takes root… or not?After weeks on the road, we’re back in North Idaho, the place that already feels like home even though our roots aren’t in the ground yet. In this adventure episode, we take you along as we check out a remote one-acre lot tucked deep into the mountains near Lake Pend Oreille.From rough forest roads to steep terrain, from big hopes to big reality checks — we walk through what it’s really like to try to build a home base while living full-time on the road.Along the way, we talk about:what we’re looking for in our future homesteadchallenges of off-grid access in winter (hello, snowmobile-only roads)the pros + cons of remote landhow our three pups (including sweet Jewels in this video) shape every decisionthe behind-the-scenes chaos of travel days, Starlink glitches, laundry hunts, and keeping the camper functioningsurrendering to the unknown and trusting the right place will reveal itselfWe also share updates on:the Arizona homestead salethe next property we plan to tourhow we’re navigating decision-making while still living on the moveour setup, our workflow, and the truth about what this lifestyle really takesIf you’ve ever dreamed of relocating to the mountains, buying remote land, or building a simple life on your own terms, this episode offers a real, unfiltered look into the early stages of that journey.📍 Watch the full episode for the views, the honesty, and a few laughs.📍 Visit the blog at KerouacsCruising.com for detailed notes & resources.📍 Join the conversation on Instagram & Facebook @kerouaccruising.If you enjoy the episode, please consider liking, commenting, subscribing, and leaving a review — your support helps us reach more people walking the same path.

What if trash could build schools, students could fight poverty, and real democracy began in 7th grade? In this profoundly moving interview, we sit down with Matt Paneitz, founder of Long Way Home, a nonprofit turning 550+ tons of waste into a sustainable Hero School campus in rural Guatemala. In this powerful and uplifting conversation, we talk with Matt Paneitz — paramedic, Peace Corps volunteer, educator, builder, and founder of A Long Way Home, a nonprofit in Comalapa, Guatemala, transforming trash into resilient classrooms and turning students into community problem-solvers.Matt spent two decades proving that purpose can truly be built from the ground up. His Hero School model, recognized by UNESCO, blends green building, indigenous Kachikal traditions, democratic education, and community empowerment. The result? Students who don’t just learn about change — they create it.We talk about: ✨ How 550+ tons of trash became a sustainable K–12 campus ✨ Students solving poverty using what they learn in school ✨ Bamboo trusses, earthbag domes, eco-brick walls & tire foundations ✨ Matt’s intense origin story — from a small Texas town to the Peace Corps to hitchhiking through Guatemala ✨ The unseen realities of poverty and resilience ✨ How one volunteer idea grew into a movement ✨ Why democratic education could change the future of entire countries ✨ What Matt hopes to bring to the Secretary of Education ✨ The power of purpose, passion, and “la lucha” — the shared struggle ✨ Our own reflections afterward about chasing purpose even when it looks “crazy” from the outsideIf you’ve ever questioned your path, your purpose, or the impact one person can make — this episode will move you.Support Long Way Home Volunteer, donate, or learn more: 🔗 lwhome.org 📞 Matt’s direct number (he insisted!): 978-992-2333Follow Us & Join the Journey Blog & photos: kerouacscruising.com Instagram & Facebook: @kerouacscruising Email: [email protected] Support our work on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/kerouacscruising

From a sketchy canal in Nevada to a dreamy lakeside spot in Oregon, this leg of our journey had biting flies, blown-up Starlink, surprise mice, and a whole lot of dog hair. We’re towing our 26-foot trailer with three dogs, chasing cooler temps, and trying to keep our truck alive while we inch toward Idaho and grandbaby smoochies.You’ll also see our sweet girl Jewels all throughout this episode—this was filmed before she passed, so this one is extra special to us. 💛In this adventure episode, we roll out of the Yosemite/Virginia Lakes area and start making our way toward Idaho with a few memorable stops along the way:Humboldt Wildlife Management Area near Lovelock, Nevada – including why we wouldn’t let the dogs in the water, how biting flies + mosquitoes changed our minds, and what it’s like crawling down a washboard road at 10 mph with a trailer.Antelope Reservoir, Oregon (near Jordan Valley) – a beautiful free camping spot with swimmable water, big skies, and first-come-first-served lakeside sites that fill up fast.Spring Creek Road (Forest Service Road 21) near La Grande, Oregon – high pines, Oregon Trail history, Labor Day side-by-sides, hunting season, and how we handled the heat when we really just wanted a quiet few days in the woods.We also talk honestly about full-time RV life with three dogs (Jewels, Bella, and Norman):laundry math when you haven’t washed clothes since you left Arizonadog hair avalanches every time you crack a windowmanaging an elderly dog’s incontinence on the roadwhy we keep snap traps on board for surprise furry stowaways 🐭On the “logistics & life” side, we share:our truck upgrades (that new transmission cooler and why slowing down on mountain passes changed everything)a weird AC thermostat glitch in the camper (hello, Celsius)Starlink reality when clouds roll in and your upload speed disappears right when you’re trying to deliver a podcast episodethe emotional roller coaster of selling our Arizona homestead and the excitement of possibly buying a small treed acre in Idaho near the lake—just enough space to park the camper, fence the pups, run shore power, and build a big “dog house” shed.Through it all, we’re just two humans and three dogs doing our best to travel slow, stay safe, and keep things honest—even when the fire pits are full of trash, the temps hit the 90s, and the laundry basket is begging for mercy.🎧 In this episode you’ll hear about:The truth about Humboldt Wildlife Management Area as an overnight stopWhy we highly recommend Antelope Reservoir (and why you should arrive early)Free camping on Spring Creek Road / FS 21 near La Grande, ORTraveling with three dogs: hair, heat, and hard decisionsOur Starlink struggles and website rebuild in the wildTruck temps, towing safety, and how a transmission cooler changed our driving styleOur next chapter: hunting season, baby cuddles, and a potential home base in Idaho🔗 Places & resources mentioned:Antelope Reservoir (near Jordan Valley, Oregon) – free lakeside camping with vault toilets and fire rings (check current fire bans)Spring Creek Road / FS 21 near La Grande, OR – dispersed camping + Spring Creek Campground (fee area with vault toilet)GC Asian Fusion, La Grande, Oregon – delicious, affordable Asian fusion spot we loved in downtown La Grande💛 A note about Jewels: You’ll see our girl Jewels a lot in this video. This episode was recorded before she passed, and we chose to share it as a way to honor her joy out on the road. She was such a big part of Kerouacs Cruising, and we’re grateful you love her too.📸 Blog companion: Read the full blog with camping details, tips, and photos: 👉 [Add your blog link here once published]🗣 Join the conversation:Website & blog: kerouacscruising.comFacebook & Instagram: @kerouaccruisingEmail: [email protected] this episode made you laugh, cringe, or plan your own trip, please like, subscribe, and leave a review. It helps more adventure-curious folks find us and keeps this journey rolling.

If “networking” makes you want to run for the hills, this episode will feel like a deep breath. We’re joined by Nick Shelton—veteran, strategist, stand-up comic, and author of An Introvert’s Guide to World Domination—to talk about navigating the world as an introvert without wearing a mask. We dig into authenticity vs. performance, simple step-by-step social systems (yes, including where to stand and what to hold), re-finding yourself after retirement or a major life change, and why saying “I don’t know” is secretly a superpower. Nick also shares his “Reset Button” framework for auditing your life, releasing old identities, and building purpose through aligned habits.Highlights:The low-pressure way to enter any room and meet one personAuthenticity > confidence: stop faking it, start systemizing itThe “reset letter” + burn ritual (honoring past you)Cooking/dance/language classes as identity-building cheat codesTreating everyone like a VIP (and why it opens real doors)Links & resources:Nick’s site: resettheman.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/nicholasleonshelton/An Introvert’s Guide to World Domination: geni.us/anintrovertsguideOur blog & photos: kerouacscruising.comCallouts: If this helped, share it with the introvert in your life and leave a review—it truly keeps us rolling.

After our short pause, we're back on the road—and Yosemite greeted us with rain, hail, fog, and a full-on August snowstorm. In today’s adventure episode, we recap our wild entrance into Yosemite Valley, the unprepared tourists scrambling for ponchos, James trying (and failing) to get a tetanus shot, and the breathtaking moment the storm lifted and revealed the valley walls and waterfalls in all their beauty.This is an honest look at what travel really feels like—messy, unpredictable, hilarious, and healing. And a reminder that sometimes the storm gives you a better gift than the sunshine ever could.What We Talk About• Rain, hail & 38° August snow 🤯 • Crowds scrambling for overpriced umbrellas • Why rainy national park days are usually the best • The chaos of Yosemite Valley traffic • Lower & Upper Yosemite Falls roaring from fresh storms • Why the outside areas (Tuolumne Meadows, Tioga Pass) might be even better • James’s foot injury update • RV challenges, triumphs & the art of rolling with what isLinks🎥 Watch the YouTube adventure: https://youtu.be/QsfwPpUffJk 📝 Blog with campsite details & photos: https://kerouacscruising.com/when-the-storm-doesnt-scare-off-the-crowd-our-rain-soaked-and-hilarious-yosemite-valley-day/ IG/FB: @KerouacsCruising Email: [email protected]

After two weeks off, we’re back — and today’s conversation is exactly about coming back. Author and former boxer Mark Connor joins us to talk about loss, caring for parents, Irish and Native influences, and how to keep love, family, and life at the center even when the world is pulling apart.In this episode, Cara and James sit down with Mark Connor, author of It’s About Time, a memoir-meets-spiritual-reflection wrapped around poetry and guarded (literally) by angels. Mark shares how he navigated seasons of grief, long pauses in his writing, caring for his parents, and staying rooted in Catholic faith while honoring Indigenous and Irish connections.We talk about:How boxing and jazz taught him about rhythm in life and writingWhat to do when you hit 2 years of writer’s blockWhy he says God is not a tyrant, but “love, family, and life”Holding space for different spiritual traditions without losing your ownHow to keep creating when money/life/time say “not now”📚 Get Mark’s book It’s About Time here: [Amazon link] or [Lulu link]🌐 Visit Mark’s site: https://boxersandwritersmagazine.com/books📺 Watch this episode on YouTube: youtu.be/cTrek5Keb7oConnect with us:• Website & blog: https://kerouacscuising.com• IG & FB: @KerouacsCruising• Email us: [email protected]• Support the show / travel content: ko-fi.com/kerouacscruisingIf this episode encouraged you, the kindest thing you can do is rate, review, and share — it helps us reach more travelers, writers, and spiritual nomads like you. 🧡

A thunderstorm rolls in, the road turns to slush, and Yosemite’s drama cranks to 11. We pull over, wait it out, and keep going—dogs panting, windshield fogging, laughter on loop. Come along as we thread Tioga Pass, hunt for Tunnel View, daydream about the sequoias, and find the magic in the messy middle. 🎧 Watch the companion video: youtu.be/Wl2GJBzWWfgWhere we are: Yosemite National Park via Tioga Pass (Lee Vining side)Weather curveball: Thunder, lightning, hail/sleet “mush,” low visibility, rockfall, and big temperature swings (high 30s–40s°F).The plan: Explore Yosemite Valley on a rainy day; opt for a short, paved, dog-friendly walk with views of Half Dome & Yosemite Falls.Reality checks:James is 5 days post-foot injury (tetanus shot contemplation 😅).Campsite is ~3 hours from Mariposa Grove; sequoias go on the “next trip” list.Dogs = adorable, steamy windows.Highlights:Watching waterfalls kick back on after the storm.Three tunnels (!!) on the way toward the Valley (friend memory unlocked).That “is that…a payphone?!” bit.The way rainy days thin the crowds and amplify the mood.Dog tips: Bring towels, extra water, and plan paved, low-impact routes in bad weather.Safety note: Pull over during lightning/hail, watch for rockfall, and mind those no-guardrail edges.Watch the visuals: https://youtu.be/Wl2GJBzWWfgKey takeaways (bullets):Rainy days can be the best national park days—crowds clear, waterfalls reappear, and the drama is unreal.Plans change; the park isn’t going anywhere. Save big hikes (like Mariposa Grove) for a future trip if conditions or health say so.Long drives to/from dispersed camp are worth it when the starlink/solar/views hit right.Safety > schedule. Pull over, breathe, and wait out the storm.

Stress isn’t the story—self-love is. Today we sit down with Cheyenne Moore—author of Self Love 101: How to Look in the Mirror and host of Safe Space with Cheyenne—to talk about the messy, honest middle of healing. We reframe anxiety and depression as parts of you asking to be seen, name the inner critic (Stanford, we see you), and get practical about boundaries, people-pleasing, grief, and being authentic online without performative “positivity.”In this episode:Why your anxiety isn’t the enemy (and how to hear what it’s asking for)“Beginner-friendly” self-love tools that actually fit real lifeGrieving the Old Self & integrating the New You (Cheyenne’s next book + journal)Masculine emotions, parenting, and modeling nervous-system safetyThe trap of spiritual perfectionism + what honest progress looks likeUsing your voice without fixing, forcing, or faking itAbout Cheyenne Moore Cheyenne is the author of Self Love 101: How to Look in the Mirror and the upcoming Grieving the Old Self 101: How to Integrate the New You. She hosts Safe Space with Cheyenne, a podcast designed to elevate voices, stories, and beginner-friendly tools for real-life healing.Connect with Cheyenne • Book: https://a.co/d/8ByyalI • Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/5W7zl2R8XggkQbZGztDOY7 • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safespacewithcheyenne • YouTube: Safe Space with Cheyenne • Facebook: Safe Space with Cheyenne (Wichita, KS)• Book: Self Love 101 → https://a.co/d/8ByyalIMentions • Our current Book Club pick: The Untethered Soul (Sundays) → https://bit.ly/KerouacBookClub • Kerouac’s Cruising blog & socials → kerouacscruising.com | IG/FB @kerouaccruisingEnjoying this episode? Like/subscribe/review to help more listeners find the show. Share with a friend who’s ready to trade perfection for honest progress.

On our way to Yosemite, we managed to wedge the trailer in a too-tight turn… again. Here’s the simple “disconnect & pivot” move we’ve now used twice to recover safely on downhill grades—plus how we chose a high-elevation boondock near Lee Vining with great Starlink and solar, what to know about Yosemite’s timed entry, and a rainstorm/rattlesnake morning for the books. We wrap with a quick tour of Virginia Lakes and why we stayed put at 9,100’ instead of moving deeper into the trees.What you’ll hearA repeatable way to get unstuck on a downhill slope (with tire-chock safety)Why satellite view isn’t enough (and what to do instead)Starlink + solar considerations in mountain terrainYosemite entry timing (avoid the reservation window)Rattlesnake etiquette with dogs, and monsoon camping in the desertVirginia Lakes Road overview: dispersed + primitive options, views for daysQuick LinksBook Club: bit.ly/KerouacBookClubWork with us / socials: @kerouaccruisingSafety note: We’re sharing our personal experience, not professional recovery advice. Use your best judgment and local regulations.

Voice Movement Therapy practitioner, writer, singer, and creative polymath Kaatje Jones joins us to explore healing through the embodied voice, working with land/ancestors, and building an authentic, multi-hyphenate life. We talk Sedona vortexes, Santa Fe quiet magic, sessions that look like… chicken noises 🐔, and gentle ways to begin again.Timestamps/Chapters: 00:00 – Why an eclectic, multi-hyphenate path can fuel you (not drain you) 01:38 – What is Voice Movement Therapy (VMT)? 05:38 – From theater kid to healing with the voice 07:03 – What a first VMT session can look like 09:24 – Breath, humming, roaring, and meeting your body where it’s at 11:21 – Shame, silliness, and celebrating tears 12:26 – Inner child + parts work in VMT 14:20 – Science, woo, and the spectrum between 16:13 – Working with the land (Sedona, Santa Fe) & being guided by place 19:33 – Vortex tours, skeptics, and “something’s happening…” 21:35 – Rebrand: YouTube + Substack as a creative container 25:13 – Music: medicine songs, land-inspired pieces, and coming-out stories 27:33 – How to work with Kaatje (online/outdoors/ancestor work) 28:56 – Boundaries/energy hygiene for empaths who hold space 31:11 – How many clients/day? When work gives you energy 34:53 – For the “rat race” crowd: small experiments & beginner’s mind 37:24 – Routines vs. responsiveness: building days by feel 41:28 – Everyone’s a beginner somewhere (even the experts) 43:19 – Santa Fe meetup, Part 2 ✨Links: • Work with Kaatje: wildxpression.com (Wild Expression without the “e”) • Kaatje’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WildXpression or Substack: search Wild Xpression • Our Book Club: https://bit.ly/KerouacBookClub • Get The Untethered Soul: https://amzn.to/48gkvST

Sometimes the road gives you sunsets and smooth miles. Other times it hands you three hours on a Nevada highway, a monsoon storm that shakes your camper, and a rattlesnake at your door. This week on Kerouacs Cruising, we share the unpredictable beauty and challenges of chasing Yosemite.On this episode of Kerouacs Cruising, we’re reminded that road life is never boring. What started as an early drive to Yosemite turned into hours waiting on the highway after a tragic accident, followed by a desert monsoon that rocked our evening — and a sunrise made even wilder by a rattlesnake sighting at camp.We talk about:🛻 The accident that shut down the Nevada highway and why road safety matters⛈️ Experiencing a desert monsoon — rain, thunder, and beauty all rolled together🐍 How Norman, our pup, saved the day by alerting us to a rattlesnake🌄 The mix of chaos and serenity that makes this nomadic life unforgettableIt’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it.👉 Tune in to hear the full story and subscribe for more real-life road adventures.

Tired of being told “you’re fine” when you know something deeper is happening in your body? Natural health practitioner and author Elle Provencher joins us to unpack menopause, candida, cholesterol, detox, energy medicine, and how to step boldly into your power as a true “Menopausal Glamazon.”For decades, Elle Provencher has been blending naturopathy, nutrition, energy work, and humor to help people take charge of their health. In this episode, she shares insights from her book The Magnificent Menopausal Glamazon: Unleashing Your Inner Superhero One Hot Flash at a Time and talks candidly about her own journey with menopause, candida, and cholesterol.We explore:Why women are often dismissed by doctors — and how to advocate for yourselfWhat candida really is (and why so many people struggle with it)How blood type eating impacts inflammation and energyThe role of plastics, toxins, and everyday products in hormone healthPractical detox tips with essential oils, foods, and mindset shiftsThe connection between frequency, energy medicine, and physical healthWhy menopause isn’t the end, but a powerful new beginningElle’s approach mixes science, natural medicine, and humor — reminding us that health and aging can be empowering, not limiting.Timestamps 00:00 – Fired a doctor: why “eat less french fries” isn’t medical advice 02:22 – Elle’s background in naturopathy & energy work 07:00 – The candida story (and how to recognize it in yourself) 11:00 – Plastic in water bottles & rotisserie chicken reality check 14:40 – Essential oils for detox and menopause support 20:55 – Weight loss, hormones & finding balance 27:20 – Statins, cholesterol, and Elle’s personal journey 34:30 – The truth about salt, celery, and blood pressure 37:50 – Juicing, beets & everyday detox habits 38:20 – The Menopausal Glamazon book (humor + empowerment) 45:00 – Frequency, energy, and why your body is like a radio 50:00 – Breathing & grounding exercises to reduce stress 55:00 – Eat right for your blood type explained 01:00:00 – Closing thoughts + Elle’s contact infoResourcesElle’s book: The Magnificent Menopausal Glamazon (Coming Soon!)Contact Elle: 860-888-8613 | [email protected] 🌐 kerouaccruising.com 📸 FB & IG: @kerouaccruising 📩 Email: [email protected]

After eight years of blood, sweat, and sunsets, we locked the door to our Northern Arizona homestead for the last time. In this episode, we share the bittersweet goodbye to our off-grid home, the excitement of heading toward Yosemite, and the chaos of Vegas—including James’ screwdriver mishap. Saying goodbye to a place you’ve built with your own hands is never easy. For us, leaving our 20-acre off-grid homestead in Northern Arizona came with tears, laughter, and fresh paint under our fingernails. But it also funded the next chapter: a road trip west, chasing long-awaited dreams in Yosemite.We talk about:The whirlwind of fixing, painting, and selling our tiny homeWhy saying goodbye to a homestead is more than just a sale—it’s letting go of a life you builtThe nerves of towing into Yosemite’s high elevations with a tricky transmissionOur candid struggles as a couple under pressure (hello, Vegas traffic + camper backing fiasco)James’ wild “screwdriver-through-the-foot” accident and what it taught us about slowing downJoin us as we transition from homebuilders to full-time travelers, and share the messy, beautiful reality behind the scenes.Timestamps 00:00 – Teaser & Intro 02:20 – Two weeks of chaos: rodeos, football, friends & painting 05:30 – The bittersweet last lock of the front door 07:00 – Yosemite dreams & fears about towing over the Sierras 12:00 – Vegas traffic nightmare + camper communication meltdown 15:00 – The screwdriver accident: James vs. his foot 22:00 – What’s next: Kristen Bentley interview + Yosemite adventuresResources MentionedKristen Bentley's Interview - YouTube: https://youtu.be/Lr4KrVycjHk Where You Stream: https://kerouacscruising.alitu.com/episode/c8c62d7d-0e2f-4f0a-bf54-9f213125825fConnect Website: kerouaccruising.com IG/FB: @kerouaccruising Email: [email protected]

What happens when you hit 50 and realize the “hustle” no longer fits? Wonderful Morrison shares how she quit everything, moved across the country to be with family, re-examined people-pleasing and identity, and rebuilt a more soul-led life. We discuss pattern disruptors (moving, nature, and rodeos!), nervous system regulation, minimalism, and how curiosity and quantum thinking can open new possibilities. If you’re craving a midlife reset, this one’s a compass.Key TakeawaysWhy a location change can be the pattern disruptor your life needsPeople-pleasing, identity, and the midlife rebirth (not “crisis”)Nature as medicine: presence, simplicity, and real resilienceHow to “let go” without losing your ambitionUsing story (not just “strategy”) to build a bold personal brandCuriosity over fear when exploring tech/AI and “quantum” ideasTimestamps00:00 – Wonderful’s midlife pivot: “I quit everything.”05:17 – Slowing down without “retiring” your spirit06:44 – Rodeo, horses & reawakening the body’s courage07:36 – Pattern disruptors: moving, selling, simplifying10:41 – Back to basics in a high-tech world12:30 – “Shut the **** up” mornings & nervous-system calm20:51 – Real world > swipe world: building resilience24:27 – Nature changes what you notice (trash, access, stewardship)31:45 – The identity shock of seeing your people-pleasing35:00 – Keep learning: joy, health, and grit47:27 – Minimalism, moving, and the “enough” question50:01 – Tech + humanity: a gentler take on AI & the future57:48 – Healing outside the office; questioning old programming1:10:50 – Business pivot: from “nice” coaching to bold brand storytelling1:14:54 – “What your consciousness can dream up, you can live.”1:18:11 – Book talk: E-Squared & the fun of experimenting1:27:45 – Getting clear on what you really want1:33:18 – What’s next & where to find WonderfulResources Mentioned (Affiliate)E-Squared by Pam Grout: https://amzn.to/4pvy9roTransitions (book) — mentioned conceptually: https://amzn.to/4nkJgSsConnectAll things Wonderful Morrison: https://bit.ly/WonderfulMKerouac’s Cruising: kerouaccruising.com | IG/FB: @kerouaccruising | Email: [email protected] If this episode sparked something, leave a rating/review and share it with a friend who’s navigating midlife change. Your support helps us reach more good humans. 💛

When your doctor shifts from saying “treatable” to “cured,” life feels different. In this week’s episode of Kerouac’s Cruising, James shares big news from his thyroid cancer journey, while we also tackle truck troubles, Flagstaff’s forest escapes, and a night sky meteor shower. Hope, healing, and adventure all collide here. This episode of Kerouac’s Cruising is a blend of triumph and trial. James reflects on the incredible moment when his doctor used the word “cured” instead of “treatable,” offering a new sense of freedom in his thyroid cancer recovery. Meanwhile, we talk through our ongoing battle with transmission issues, why we’re still camped in the pines instead of heading home, and how the cooler 8,000-foot elevation is keeping us refreshed through Arizona’s unusual late summer heat.We also share:🌦 Why the monsoon season feels so strange this year🚙 The messy, campsite-side reality of replacing a thermal bypass valve🐕 Managing the dogs around cattle guards and forest water temptations🌌 Stargazing highlights, including a summer meteor shower worth staying up for🏈 James’s excitement about an upcoming Arizona Cardinals gameCome along as we balance life’s frustrations with gratitude for quiet forests, starry skies, and the healing news that changes everything.👉 Read more on our blog at kerouacscruising.com 👉 Connect with us on Instagram & Facebook: @kerouacscruising 👉 Support the journey or reach out: [email protected]

Jewels wasn’t just our dog—she’s the reason Kerouac’s Cruising exists. Her wild joy, desert miles, and need for open space pushed us out of the city and onto the road. Today, we share the hardest chapter: why we chose to say goodbye, how we knew it was time, and how she changed everything.In this episodeThe storm and the sunshine: Jewels’ separation anxiety, desert hikes, and endless swimsHow her spirit shaped our move from Tucson to off-grid life in Northern ArizonaThe health declines we watched for (incontinence, wobbly legs, hearing loss) and the moment we knewWhat the final day looked like—swims, snuggles, and being with her to the last breathLoving a dog through goodbye, and letting that love keep shaping the way we liveTimestamps (approx.)00:00 The legend of the couch-eater with a marathon heart01:46 Why this episode hurts: the day we let Jewels go03:40 Toys, Kongs, swims, and 100° Tucson shade-hops04:57 From city to Northern Arizona: choosing land for a dog who needed space05:48 Off-grid roaming (and the occasional “late to work” dog search)06:32 Bringing home Norman and the return of Jewels’ sparkle07:02 The declines we couldn’t ignore07:55 The truck jump, the face plant, and making the call08:42 Second-guessing vs. compassion: how we decided it was time09:51 Holding her until her last breath10:00 Why Kerouac’s Cruising will always carry Jewels with usLinks & things we mentioned📸 Video collage celebrating Jewels’ life — https://youtu.be/-8uzlgWdECoBlog: https://kerouacscruising.com/goodbye-jewels-the-dog-who-inspired-our-freedom/🐾 Resources for pet loss support: Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day communities; Pet grief hotlines; books like Goodbye, Friend by Gary KowalskiJoin the conversationIG & FB: @kerouaccruising • Email: [email protected] a photo and a favorite memory of your pup—tell us what they taught you.If this resonatedSubscribes, reviews, and shares help other grieving pet parents find this episode. Thank you for helping us honor Jewels. 💛SEO keywords:pet loss; saying goodbye to a dog; senior dog; dog euthanasia decision; grieving a dog; celebration of life for dog; life on the road with dogs; vanlife with dogs; RV life with dogs; off-grid life; Northern Arizona; Tucson desert; separation anxiety dog; swimming dog; remote camping with dogs; remembering a dog; honoring a pet; dog parent grief; end-of-life for pets

What if your symptoms were signals—not malfunctions? Dr. Michelle LaMasa-Dawson (Director, Recall Healing USA; Co-Director, Recall Healing International) joins us to unpack how unresolved stress, family patterns, and life timelines can map to physical symptoms—and how awareness plus practical mind-body tools can support real change. In this conversation, we explore: identifying stress “conflicts,” why awareness is 80% of the shift, gentle somatic practices, and how to approach healing without abandoning conventional care. We also talk parenting, breaking inherited beliefs, and the Hawaiian practice of ho‘oponopono as a simple at-home reset.GuestDr. Michelle LaMasa-Dawson — Director of Recall Healing USA; Co-Director of Recall Healing International; Scientific Advisory Board member. PhD in Mind-Body Medicine (Saybrook University). Certifications include NET, NLP, Sound Healing, CMBM, and fascial techniques (Human Garage). Web: soultreetransformations.com, recallhealingusa.com Email: [email protected] • Contact: (626) 533-7019 (Brianna) Instagram: @soultreetransformationsMind-Body Skills, Live workshop: Oct 2–4 in Woodstock, GAWhat we coverWhat Recall Healing looks for: timeline, birth order, naming, family events“Turbo function” vs “malfunction”: a reframing of symptomsWhy awareness (80%) + action (20%) becomes a practical pathWhen somatic work helps (breath, gentle fascial maneuvers, down-shifting from fight/flight)Ho‘oponopono for family patterns and self-responsibilityBalancing complementary approaches with appropriate medical careMentioned/Promised Links:Blog for this episode: kerouacscruising.com/blog“Together We Rise” anthology: https://amzn.to/44hvyaXHuman Garage (fascial maneuvers): https://humangarage.net/Ho‘oponopono Prayer: https://healingbrave.com/blogs/all/hooponopono-prayer-for-forgivenessCara & James socials: @kerouaccruising (FB/IG)Contact Michelle: soultreetransformations.com | recallhealingusa.comDisclaimersThis episode shares personal experiences and educational perspectives. It’s not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.CTAsIf this helped, subscribe and leave a quick review—it seriously boosts our reach.Read the companion blog for resources + linksConnect with us: @kerouaccruising | [email protected]

We pulled into Paiute Reservoir (Utah) to an empty shoreline, glassy water, and a hard reset on gratitude. This is the life we once dreamed about—now we’re living it. In this episode: lakeside camping, wildfire scooper planes skimming water, camper-vs-tent comfort in the heat, and the honest truck fixes that keep us rolling.Full notes: North of Junction and near Marysvale, Utah, we scored a serene two-night spot at Paiute Reservoir (Paiute State Park)—quiet, roomy, and jaw-dropping sunsets. Between early drives to beat the heat and lakeside work sessions, we kept reminding ourselves: this is the dream we worked for.You’ll hear about:Utah reservoir camping (two-night limit at Paiute State Park) and why the camper is a game-changer in summer heatWildfire scooper planes skimming the reservoir—wild to watch up closeTransmission troubleshooting on the road (hello, thermal bypass valve)The mindset shift from worry → wonder: appreciating the life we asked for🔗 Blog + photos: kerouacscuising.com 📲 Join us: Instagram & Facebook @kerouacscruising 💌 Email: [email protected]

If you’ve dreamed of writing a book but feel like an imposter, this episode is your permission slip. EP House founder Kristin Hernquist Bentley breaks down how real books get made—idea to manuscript to publishing—why showing up daily beats chasing goals, and how writing becomes a healing, life-changing practice. We go deep on the author journey: overcoming author-imposter syndrome, choosing between traditional, indie, and self-publishing, what developmental editing actually is, and how vulnerability on the page creates reader transformation. Kristin shares EP House’s boutique model, her journalism roots, the 2020 launch story, and the game-changing advice she got from the first female NFL coach she interviewed: “I didn’t chase dreams—I showed up and gave my best every day, and the path unfolded.”What you’ll learnThe 3 publishing paths (traditional, indie, self)How developmental editing shapes your story (and your confidence)A practical way to start: 12 chapters × ~1,200 words (the “vomit draft”)Why readers need your real story (and how to write it safely)How books build community, catalyze healing, and change lives🔗 Our blog & resources: kerouacscruising.com 📲 Say hi: Instagram & Facebook @kerouacscruising 💌 Email: [email protected] 📚 EP House: ephouse.co or [email protected]

Crystal-clear waters, free camping, and wide-open Wyoming skies 🌄—this week’s stop at Lake Cameahwait felt like a private oasis. But road life always brings challenges too, from overheated transmissions to tricky campsite searches. In this episode of Kerouacs Cruising, we share our camping wins, RV park review, and road trip lessons learned.We also revisit the fun of Red Lodge’s car show, reconnect with old friends, and prep for Utah. Whether you’re an RVer, dog-loving nomad, or dreaming of free lakeside camping, this story will inspire your next adventure.🔗 Campendium listing for Lake Cameahwait: campendium.com/lake-cameahwaitBighorn Canyon National Recreation Area: https://www.nps.gov/bica/index.htmPhillips RV Park: https://www.phillipsrvpark.com/📲 Join us: Instagram & Facebook @kerouaccruising🐾 Blog + photos: kerouaccruising.com

What if your bloodwork says you’re “fine,” but your body tells a different story? In this episode of Kerouacs Cruising, Cara shares her raw health journey—hormone imbalances, adrenal fatigue, gut health struggles, and how functional medicine and self-love are helping her heal beyond surface-level “solutions.”Cara opens up about elimination diets, trauma’s impact on health, and finding a doctor who finally listened. This is a story of hope, healing, and remembering you’re not alone.Mentioned in this Episode:Adrenal Transformation Protocol: A 4-Week Plan to Release Stress Symptoms and Go from Surviving to Thriving by Izabella Wentz PharmDFast Like a Girl: A Woman's Guide to Using the Healing Power of Fasting to Burn Fat, Boost Energy, and Balance Hormones by Mindy PelzWork with Dr. Beth Claxton🔗 Blog & resources: kerouaccruising.com📲 Join us: Instagram & Facebook @kerouaccruising💌 Email: [email protected]

Red Lodge, Montana gave us everything—free camping at Willow Creek, authentic Philly cheesesteaks, and new friends with incredible road trip stories. But it wasn’t all smooth: our truck overheated again, and campground hunting tested our patience. In this episode, we share the joys, challenges, and lessons of living nomadically on the road.From birthday rock climbing in Post Falls to VW van-life tales, this chapter is full of connection, resilience, and the beauty of saying yes to adventure.🔗 Blog + photos: kerouaccruising.com 📲 Join us: Instagram & Facebook @kerouaccruising 🐾 Support the journey: https://ko-fi.com/kerouacscruising

At Lightning Creek, Idaho, we lived the dream—floating in the creek, cooking fireside meals, fixing our camper, and soaking in rare moments of family magic. In this episode of Kerouacs Cruising, we share the highs and lows of off-grid living: unreliable Starlink, redneck fixes, and the deep gratitude that fuels our nomadic journey.From EFT tapping breakdowns to joyful creek days with our grandbaby, this chapter reminds us that even imperfect days hold perfection. Join us as we navigate camper repairs, truck upgrades, and the pull between family roots and the open road.💻 Watch this episode on YouTube: @KerouacsCruising📸 Blog & travel stories: KerouacsCruising.com💬 Instagram & Facebook: @KerouacCruising📧 Email: [email protected]✨ Support our journey on Ko-fi: Every little bit helps us keep creating from the road! If this episode moved you, the kindest thing you can do is like, subscribe, and leave a review. It’s a small action that makes a huge difference in helping us keep the journey going. 💚💗

Join us as we talk with Jade Beaty—author, healer, and courageous storyteller—about surviving toxic secrets, sexual healing, and breaking generational trauma. This episode explores:Complex trauma healing, rooted in family systems and difficult historiesThe healing power of embracing spiritual sexuality without shameHow to reclaim personal identity when family and history feel hidden—or harmfulThe intersection of creative expression and healing through writing and storytellingWhether you're seeking spiritual healing or curious about reclaiming your deepest self, Jade’s insights illuminate a powerful path toward authenticity.

When you’re living the dispersed camping life, you have to roll with the punches—and sometimes those punches come from the logging crew.In this episode, we share how our dream campsite near family got cut short when Idaho land managers asked us to pack up—fast. From soggy tear-downs to long drives and doggy mishaps, we cover the chaos, the stress, and the unexpected blessings that landed us back in one of our all-time favorite camp spots: Lightning Creek.You’ll hear:Why dispersed camping means embracing the unpredictableThe pros & cons of camping close to family vs. deep in natureHow we set up (and sometimes don’t set up) after a long day’s moveThe magic of Idaho’s inland rainforest and why Lightning Creek keeps calling us backBehind the scenes of working remotely on the road, launching a new website, and producing another podcast while travelingWe may be an hour from our son now, but we’ve got glacier-fed water, giant cedar trees, and nights falling asleep to the sound of the creek—and that’s a trade we’re happy to make.📍 Blog & photos for this episode: kerouaccruising.com 🐾 Follow us on Instagram & Facebook: @kerouaccruising 🎒 Watch all episodes on YouTube or your favorite podcast app#DispersedCamping #LightningCreek #IdahoTravel #RVParking #OffGridCamping #KerouacsCruising #RVLife #FullTimeTravel

In this deeply moving episode, we sit down with Kari England—an Akashic record keeper, intuitive healer, and co-author of Together We Rise: The Wounded Healer's Enlightened Journey to a Collective Ascension. From generational healing to quantum spirituality, Kari shares her powerful story of awakening, stepping out of the spiritual closet, and learning to trust the divine blueprint within.We explore:What the Akashic Records really areHow soul retrieval and karmic contract work help people healBreaking free from generational trauma and conditioningHuman design, astrology, and late bloomersThe power of synchronicity, ancestral rage, and living in alignmentHow healing is never "done," and why that’s okayWhether you’re navigating your own spiritual path or simply curious about intuitive healing, Kari’s wisdom will leave you feeling seen, supported, and inspired.📍 Recorded in Utah, with all three of us (plus our dogs!) present—this is the kind of real-talk magic we love to share.🔗 Blog & guest links: kerouacscruising.com 📲 Follow Kari: on Instagram or Facebook 📝 Book a session or consultation with Kari: karivestengland.com🎧 Available wherever you listen to podcasts + full video on YouTube! 🎒 Pair this episode with our blog for deeper insights and resources.#AkashicRecords #SpiritualHealing #GenerationalTrauma #KerouacsCruising #SoulRetrieval #HumanDesign #SpiritualAwakening

Stranded on a mountain? In this raw and real episode of Kerouac’s Cruising, Cara and James take us along for the ride—literally—as they navigate the highs and lows of camper life from Idaho to Montana. From overheating engines on narrow mountain roads to breathtaking lake days and a magical Fourth of July spent on a private overlook, this leg of their journey is packed with lessons in surrender, adaptability, and laughter through the chaos.They share:The unexpected drama of finding the right camping spotWhat really happened when Norman escaped the camperBeautiful family moments for their grandson’s first birthdayA wild day of skeet shooting and an epic tubing wipeoutHard-earned wisdom about when to not push your truck🎧 Pair this episode with our blog at KerouacsCruising.com 📲 Join the community on Facebook or Instagram @KerouacsCruising 💌 Email us: [email protected] ☕ Support the journey: ko-fi.com/kerouacscruising

Ditch the cookie-cutter life! Join us as we dive into authentic living with Mary Black, host of Beyond the Cookie Cutter. Discover how to break free from stereotypes and carve your own path!In this episode, Mary shares her mission to empower women through her Women and Wealth program, blending financial literacy with mindset tools to conquer subconscious blocks. Together, we explore books like Think and Grow Rich and The Gap and the Gain, reflecting on our journey from corporate jobs to chasing dreams with grandbabies and national parks. Mary’s wisdom inspires us to live boldly, just like our #1 bestseller Together We Rise.Connect with Mary: Instagram: @marybcooksEmail: [email protected]: https://beyondthecookiecutter.buzzsprout.com/Grab Together We Rise: https://amzn.to/44hvyaX. Join Our Journey Through Reading book club Sundays at 10 AM PDT to discuss: https://bit.ly/KerouacBookClub. Share your authentic story at facebook.com/KerouacsCruising or email [email protected]. Keep cruising, keep rising!—🎧 Listen on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you stream your soul food.#KerouacsCruising #MaryBlack #BeyondTheCookieCutter #SelfDiscovery #HealingJourney #AuthenticLiving #NomadicLife #BookClub #KerouacVibes #WomenAndWealth

In this powerful final session of the Together We Rise Summit, we dive into what it means to embody our healing and lead from a higher frequency. Join Dr. David Milgram, Portia Ryan, and Laura Kimmel in a deeply moving and poetic conversation about bringing our inner work into everyday life.💫 Topics explored:How to live your healing through mind-body-spirit alignmentThe dance of remembrance and staying grounded amidst chaosLeading with unconditional love without losing yourselfThe power of creative expression in personal and collective healingThe challenge—and beauty—of writing your truth into the worldWhether you're a healer, artist, seeker, or soul on the rise, this episode is a reminder that healing isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence.📖 Together We Rise is available now: https://amzn.to/44hvyaX🗣️ Join the conversation and rise with us! https://bit.ly/KerouacBookClub🎤 Featured Speakers:Dr. David MilgramPortia RyanLaura Kimmel#TogetherWeRise #AscensionInAction #HealingJourney #HigherFrequencyLiving #KerouacsCruising #SpiritualLeadership #Podcast #MindBodySpirit #CreativeHealing

We explore the sacred intelligence of the human body—particularly the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)—and how its flow impacts brain health, aging, and our overall well-being, in this illuminating continuation of our conversation with cranial chiropractor and healer Dr. David MilgramDr. Milgram shares stories that will move you—about miraculous recoveries, ancient wisdom from Hopi elders, and the body’s powerful ability to regenerate when given the right environment. From metaphors like the River Jordan to real-life experiences healing infants and elders, this episode offers deep insight into what it means to truly support your health—body, mind, and spirit.We Discuss:The role of CSF flow in healing, clarity, and vitalityHow movement and mindset impact longevityThe spiritual stories behind sacred Arizona landsRegenerative wisdom from Hopi and Havasupai oral traditionsHow to nourish the nervous system with food, breath, and beliefThe body’s astounding ability to adapt—even under pressure🧠✨ Whether you’re seeking holistic tools to heal, fascinated by indigenous knowledge, or just curious how stories, science, and spirituality intertwine—this episode is not to be missed.🔗 Referenced Links & Resources:🔹 Previous Episode with Dr. Milgram – “Healing Beyond the Spine”🔹 Join our Journey Through Reading Book Club🔹 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @KerouacsCruising🔹 Blog and more at KerouacsCruising.com🎧 Listen now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you tune in!

On the Road with Our Travel Trailer: Kerouacs Cruising’s First Boondocking AdventureIn this episode of Kerouacs Cruising, we take you behind the scenes of our first multi-day journey with our new travel trailer—from Arizona to Utah to Idaho! From high winds and sketchy GPS routes to leveling lessons and backroad boondocking, we share the highs, the hiccups, and everything in between.We also reflect on:Why dispersed camping is so different (and better?) with a camperRV park surprises and why Love’s truck stops are a hidden gemThe emotional joy of interviewing our fellow Together We Rise co-author, Kari EnglandThe growing pains (and perks) of life on the road with dogs, gear, and a tiny home on wheels🧭 If you’re new to RV travel, love honest storytelling, or crave the idea of freedom on the open road, this one's for you.👉 Links & Mentions:💻 Website & Blog: https://kerouacscruising.com📚 Book Club Info: https://bit.ly/KerouacBookClub🎙️ Learn about Together We Rise: https://amzn.to/44hvyaX☕ Support the journey & join our membership: https://ko-fi.com/kerouaccruising📲 Follow us @kerouaccruising on Instagram, Facebook & YouTube 📧 Email us: [email protected]🎧 Available wherever podcasts stream + YouTube!

What if true healing doesn’t happen in solitude—but in sacred community?In this powerful episode from Day 4 of the Together We Rise summit, we dive into the theme of Healing in Sacred Community with co-authors Ramona Langham, Sylvie Stuart, and Kerouac's Cruising hosts Cara and James Kerouac.Together, we unpack what it means to move from isolation to connection, to rewrite our stories in the presence of those who see and hold us. Through personal stories of trauma, growth, and the power of shared support, this conversation reminds us: you were never meant to do this alone.Whether you’ve struggled to find safe community, are navigating healing while still in toxic spaces, or are awakening to your truth—this episode offers wisdom, honesty, and hope.✨ Together We Rise is now an international bestseller! Available wherever books are sold.🎧 Tune in to discover:What healing in community really looks likeHow to navigate away from toxic spaces and into nourishing onesThe unexpected ripple effects of choosing inner workWhy collective healing leads to collective ascensionHow writing their chapter transformed each speaker📚 Order the book: https://amzn.to/44hvyaX📰 Read the blog companion post: kerouacscruising.com/blog🔗 Join the Journey: Instagram + Facebook: @kerouacscruising Email: [email protected]🎥 Also streaming on YouTube @KerouacsCruising 📬 Support & connect deeper: https://ko-fi.com/kerouacscruising

What happens when a doctor trades hustle for healing?Join us on this soul-nourishing episode as we sit down with Dr. Beth Claxton—OBGYN, functional medicine expert, and fellow co-author of Together We Rise. We explore her radical journey from overworked physician to empowered healer and advocate for mindful living.Dr. Beth shares how slowing down and surrendering changed everything: from discovering Ayurveda to launching a holistic telemedicine practice, creating a radio show, and finally living her dream life. We delve into powerful topics such as the gut-brain connection, the impact of trauma on health, what true wellness truly looks like, and the essential routines that help us regain balance.If you've ever felt stuck in the system, unsure how to reclaim your health, or afraid to trust your inner wisdom—this episode is for you.🔗 Mentioned in this Episode:Dr. Beth Claxton’s Website: bethclaxtonmd.comTogether We Rise book info: https://amzn.to/44hvyaXFunctional Medicine Radio Show: Rooted in Healing on KAZM 106.5FM Sedona and https://podcasts.apple.com/mw/podcast/rooted-in-healing/id1822046832Remote travel planning & membership perks: ko-fi.com/kerouacscruising📍 Let’s Connect:Instagram & Facebook: @kerouacscruisingBlog + Travel Resources: kerouacscruising.comBe a guest on the podcast: kerouacscruising.com/join💬 Like what you hear? Leave a review, share this episode, and tag us in your takeaways—we love hearing from you!

What parts of you were silenced in the wake of trauma? How do you begin to listen to your body again, rebuild your identity, and trust the voice within?In this soul-stirring Day 3 panel of the Together We Rise summit, we’re joined by co-authors Dr. Leah Teekell-Taylor, Kevin Stuart, Raman Rose Kaur, and Kaatje Jones to explore how reclaiming the self is one of the most radical forms of healing.Together, we unpack:The armor we build to survive and how to soften back into ourselvesHow intuition sounds, feels, and guides us homeThe power of showing up for ourselves with daily commitmentWhat it means to reclaim truth, voice, and purposeHow to move through imposter syndrome and into embodimentThese vulnerable and empowering conversations remind us that healing isn’t about becoming someone new—it’s about coming home to who we’ve always been.🎧 Listen now on YouTube and everywhere podcasts stream.📘 Together We Rise is now available—grab your copy and meet the authors: https://amzn.to/44hvyaX 🌟 Want to join the conversation? Follow us @kerouacscruising on Instagram or visit kerouacscruising.com#HealingJourney #Intuition #IdentityAfterTrauma #TogetherWeRise #MentalHealth #SomaticHealing

What if your deepest pain held the key to your sacred purpose?In this emotionally powerful episode from Day 2 of the Together We Rise Summit, we explore “The Alchemy of Pain”—how suffering, loss, and grief can be transmuted into personal power, advocacy, healing, and deeper connection.You’ll hear inspiring stories from:🌿 Kayla Tassone – Psychic medium and healer, whose childhood trauma and spiritual awakening helped her embrace her calling to guide others.🔥 Sher Grogg – Fire safety advocate whose devastating personal loss led her to create change and save lives through passionate activism.🌲 Cheyenne Luzader – Healthcare pioneer and spiritual teacher who found her way through childhood grief, nature-based healing, and indigenous wisdom.Together, they share how pain became a catalyst for purpose—and how you can reclaim your voice and alchemize your wounds into wisdom.🎧 Listen wherever you stream podcasts 📺 Watch on YouTube: YouTube.com/@KerouacsCruising 📚 Grab your copy of Together We Rise: https://amzn.to/44hvyaX 💌 Join our Journey Through Reading book club: https://bit.ly/KerouacBookClubFollow us & Join the Conversation: 📍 Instagram & Facebook: @KerouacsCruising 📍 Email us: [email protected] 📍 Blog & Resources: KerouacsCruising.com✨ You are not broken—you are becoming. And your pain does not disqualify you. It prepares you.

What if your deepest wound held the key to your greatest wisdom?Welcome to a powerful and heartfelt kickoff to the Together We Rise Virtual Summit! In this episode, we dive into the theme “From Wound to Wisdom: Owning the Power of Your Healing Journey” with three incredible co-authors from the upcoming book Together We Rise—Dr. Michelle LaMasa-Dawson, Kari Vest England, and Dr. Beth Claxton.Together, they unpack: 🌱 The pivotal wounds that sparked their healing journeys 🌀 How denial, avoidance, and survival modes kept them stuck 🔥 The moment they realized their pain had purpose 💫 What “owning your healing” looks like in real life 💬 Why vulnerability is the bridge to collective healingThese authors-turned-light-bearers invite you to explore your own story, honor your past, and embrace the wisdom in your wounds. Whether you're just stepping onto your healing journey or are deep in the process, this conversation will stir your soul and help you feel seen.🕊️ All proceeds from Together We Rise go to support The Center for Mind-Body Medicine.📘 ORDER THE INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLER: https://amzn.to/44hvyaX Join Kerouacs Journey Through Reading book club: June 29 at 10PT💛 Want to join us on the podcast? Tell us your story: https://bit.ly/KerouacsGuestForm🔗 Let’s stay connected! Website, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube or Email us🎙 Hosted by Sylvie Stuart & Kristin Hernquist Bentley #TogetherWeRise #HealingJourney #SpiritualGrowth #TraumaToTriumph #MindBodyHealing