I am in conversation with Wendy Valentine, the host of [podcast name], who is conducting an interview with me via Zoom regarding the concept of rightsizing. During our discussion, I observe that she is recording from inside an RV trailer.
“Wendy,” I interject, “Is that RV your workspace or your permanent residence?”
“It serves as both,” she responds.
In this exchange about the optimal way to live during the latter phase of life, I find myself engaging with a podcaster who embodies the essence of rightsizing. The tables have turned, and now I am the one posing inquiries.
Wendy proceeds to share her personal narrative. Five years ago, at the age of 51, she was grappling with a divorce, the recent loss of her brother, a diagnosis of Lyme disease, an empty nest as her three sons had moved out, unemployment, anxiety, and a substantial debt of $150,000.
“I reached a breaking point,” she recounts. During this period of self-reflection, she envisioned herself embarking on a cross-country journey in an RV. While the idea of RV living may not resonate with everyone as a symbol of freedom, Wendy highlights an essential lesson in rightsizing: there is no one-size-fits-all solution.
In that moment of clarity, she made a firm decision to overhaul her life. (Most rightsizing endeavors commence with a significant life event such as a divorce, an empty nest, a health scare, or a financial setback, though seldom all at once.)
Her initial step, she explains, was to secure employment, preferably outside her current location in Virginia, where she resided solo in a 2,400-square-foot rental property. In April 2019, she accepted a job in Chicago selling new construction homes. She downsized to a 1,200-square-foot apartment, relocating 700 miles away via a U-Haul. The lengthy journey reinforced her vision of a future life on the road.
The job provided a substantial income, enabling her to eliminate her debt and accumulate savings. The alleviation of financial burdens corresponded with the dissipation of her depression and anxiety. “It was a chain reaction,” she reflects. “Employment instilled a sense of empowerment. As I achieved milestones, I gained optimism and motivation.” Nonetheless, her yearning for the freedom symbolized by the open road persisted.
Subsequently, in October 2021, she invested in a $150,000, 24-foot RV and embraced the mobile lifestyle. She transformed her RV into her abode and studio for her podcast show, taking her home and work on the road. Intrigued, I posed additional questions:
Q. What inspired this idea? Did you have any prior experience with RV living?
A. Four decades ago, my parents—a retired FBI agent and a musician—decided to sell their 4,000-square-foot residence in San Antonio to reside in an RV and travel. Initially, I thought they were eccentric. However, they proceeded to sell their house and belongings. My only request was, “Can I have the couch?” Presently, my mother, aged 77, and father, aged 80, are gradually slowing down but continue to reside in a 40-foot RV in Arizona.
Q. Transitioning from a 2,400-square-foot space to 1,200 square feet and eventually 120 square feet must have been challenging. What was the most difficult aspect?
A. Managing my wardrobe! Previously, I had a closet equivalent in size to this RV. Currently, my attire consists mainly of elastic pants and tank tops. As I sorted through my apartment, I categorized items destined for the RV, donations to Goodwill, and belongings for my children. Since my youngest was moving to a new apartment, I shipped him my furniture. Additionally, I have stored about 10 boxes of household items, a few artworks, and a bin of family photos in an Arizona storage facility, just in case I require an apartment in the future.
Q. How do you sustain yourself financially?
A. My podcast secures sponsorships, and I offer an online course titled “Seven Steps to Finding Freedom at Midlife.” These ventures allow me to work from any location. The current era offers remarkable opportunities for remote work, and more individuals should capitalize on this flexibility to avoid feeling stagnant.
Q. What are the most common inquiries you receive?
A. People often inquire about feelings of loneliness. Personally, I distinguish between solitude and loneliness. While I cherish moments of solitude, I did acquire a small dog during my journey. Additionally, individuals inquire about feelings of fear. Personally, I do not experience fear. I typically stay at upscale RV parks and consider myself a glamorous camper.
My sons reside in Arizona, California, and Virginia. With the RV, I can easily visit all three locations. Currently, I am situated in Malibu, enjoying an ocean view and proximity to one of my sons.
Q. How do you address the benefits of community living, such as access to groceries or hair salons?
A. The COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed significant changes, allowing for convenient services to be delivered to your location. I utilize Uber Eats for meals and have groceries delivered. Moreover, I have hairstylists in Scottsdale, Chicago, and Los Angeles. Maintaining one’s appearance is crucial.
Q. Can you envision settling down permanently in the future?
A. I prefer not to plan excessively far ahead. The 50s are an opportune time for exploration. Life is akin to a buffet, and I aspire to sample as much as possible.