Podcast
Beyond The Wheel
Hosted by Beyond the Wheel · EN
RV Products, Services & Campgrounds
10episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
What’s REALLY Happening in the RV Market Right Now? (2026 Update)
Apr 200:49:41Tap to summarizeIf you’ve been watching the RV market lately, you’ve probably noticed things feel a little different.Inventory is shifting. Prices are stabilizing. And there’s a lot of mixed messaging about whether now is a good time to buy, sell, or wait. But before we even hit the main topic, this episode starts with a couple of real-world conversations from the road and the campground that set the stage for everything happening in the industry right now. Pre-Show Conversations Disney’s Fort Wilderness Changes Sean shares his recent experience at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground and what he’s seeing on the ground. We talk about: The evolving feel of Fort Wilderness Ongoing updates and construction The upcoming Lakeshore Lodge and how it could reshape the campground experience It’s a great real-world example of how even iconic campgrounds are evolving to meet changing traveler expectations. Hanging Out with James from The Fit RV We also talk about a recent visit and YouTube video collaboration that Kenny did with James from The Fit RV. James gave Kenny a shop tour as Kenny interviewed him on what it takes to build a shop at your home and how he uses his shop to create products such as the Americanizer. Shop tour video: https://www.thefitrv.com/blog/tour-the-fit-rv-shop-or-just-hang-out-for-an-hour/ In This Episode Once we jump in, we break down what’s actually happening across the RV industry in 2026. No hype. No doom and gloom. Just a clear look at the trends shaping the market right now. We cover: The latest RV shipment numbers and what they really mean Why motorhomes and towables are moving in different directions What major manufacturers like Winnebago Industries, Thor Industries, and REV Group are seeing How campgrounds and camping styles are evolving The growing divide between younger and older RVers What all of this means if you’re thinking about buying or already own an RV Key Takeaways The RV market is not crashing, but it is rebalancing after the COVID boom Motorhomes are holding stronger than towables, especially at higher price points Manufacturers are shifting toward a lower volume, higher margin strategy Camping demand remains strong, but how people camp is changing Younger campers are driving growth in glamping and high-end RV resorts, while older RVers tend to stick with more traditional and budget-conscious travel A Shift in Camping Culture One of the biggest trends we’re seeing is how different generations approach camping. Younger travelers are more focused on the experience. They’re choosing visually appealing destinations, upgraded campgrounds, and higher-end RV resorts that are easy to share on social media. Meanwhile, many longtime RVers are sticking with a more traditional approach, focusing on value, simplicity, and familiarity. Camping isn’t just about getting away anymore. For a lot of people, it’s about how that experience looks and feels. What This Means for You If you’re thinking about buying: You may have more negotiating power than in recent years Inventory is improving Financing still plays a major role in affordability If you already own an RV: Values are holding better than expected Especially for motorized units The market hasn’t slowed down. It’s just become more selective. Episode Sources & Industry Data • RVIA February 2026 Shipment Reporthttps://www.rvia.org/reports-trends/rv-shipment-reports/2026-02/february-rv-shipments-top-29000-motorhomes-22 • RV Industry Trends & Newshttps://gorvrentals.com/blog/latest-rv-news-march-2026 • Thor Industries Market Updatehttps://www.rvnews.com/thor-industries-swings-to-profits-in-quarter/ • RV PRO News Feedhttps://rv-pro.com/news/ • Winnebago Market Coveragehttps://www.wsj.com/business/earnings/winnebago-revenue-rises-as-price-hikes-counteract-lower-sales-volume-31fc174f • REV Group / Industry Analysishttps://www.investors.com/news/rv-sales-thor-industries-earnings-tho-stock-rev-group-outlook-revg-stock-wgo/ • MarketWatch Industry Insighthttps://www.marketwatch.com/story/winnebagos-stock-rockets-to-biggest-gain-in-45-years-as-younger-buyers-eye-rvs-f489854d • The Dyrt Camping Trendshttps://thedyrt.com/press/four-out-of-five-campers-increase-camping-frequency-during-retirement/ • Glamping Trends Overviewhttps://www.glampingshow.us/magazine/younger-camper-trends/ Listen & Follow If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow the podcast and share it with someone who’s thinking about RV life or already living it. Because right now, the RV market isn’t throwing a tantrum… it’s just growing up a little.The post What’s REALLY Happening in the RV Market Right Now? (2026 Update) appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post What’s REALLY Happening in the RV Market Right Now? (2026 Update) appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.
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RV Myths Busted
Feb 1200:31:11Tap to summarizeThere’s a lot of noise out there about RV life, and not all of it is true. In this episode of Beyond The Wheel Podcast, we’re busting some of the most common RV myths and sharing what life on the road actually looks like. From where you stay, to who you meet, to the real costs involved, this is a reality check for anyone curious about RVing. Whether you’re RV-curious or already rolling down the highway, this episode separates fact from fiction. What We Cover in This Episode Why RV myths exist and how they shape expectations Myth #1: You must stay in campgrounds Boondocking, dispersed camping, and unique overnight stays Myth #2: RV life is lonely Community, friendships, and unexpected connections on the road Myth #3: RVs can’t handle extreme weather Staying comfortable in heat and cold with the right setup Myth #4: RV life is always cheaper Real costs like fuel and maintenance How budgeting actually works in RV life Final thoughts and a fun sign-off Who This Episode Is For Anyone considering RV life New RVers sorting fact from fiction Full-time or part-time RVers nodding along saying, “Yep, that’s true” Connect With Us If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who still thinks RV life only happens in campgrounds. See you down the road. The post RV Myths Busted appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post RV Myths Busted appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.
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So You Want to Be an RVer?
Jan 2900:35:59Tap to summarizeThinking 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.
Transcribe →Why Keeping Your RV Beats Buying New
Jan 1500:37:08Tap to summarizeEveryone 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.
Transcribe →Beyond the Wheel – Driver’s Edition Dec 2025
Jan 100:41:08Tap to summarizeSteady 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.
Transcribe →When Your Dog Becomes an Author – The Story Behind Belle’s RV Adventures
Dec 1800:39:27Tap to summarizeIn 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.
Transcribe →Why FMCA Became FRVA with Doug and Meagan
Dec 200:44:53Tap to summarizeEpisode 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 eventsThe 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.
Transcribe →When Things Go Wrong While RVing
Nov 900:46:29Tap to summarizeEven 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.
Transcribe →More People Living in RVs — But Not Traveling
Oct 900:50:49Tap to summarizeIn 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.
Transcribe →Hershey RV Show & State of RVing – What the Numbers Really Mean
Sep 3000:46:00Tap to summarizeIn 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.
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