Beyond the Wheel

Beyond the Wheel
  • 4.7 (36)
  • Places & Travel
  • Updated Biweekly

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

  1. 9h ago

    Skybreaker Overland: Why the Adventure Starts Before You Arrive

    What if your rental vehicle wasn’t just a way to get to the adventure, but was part of the adventure itself? In this episode of Beyond The Wheel, we sit down with Ryan Koss of Skybreaker Overland to talk about a different approach to exploring Western Canada. Skybreaker Overland rents fully equipped expedition trucks designed to take travelers beyond traditional campgrounds and into some incredible off-grid destinations. Ryan shares how his own experiences traveling the world helped inspire Skybreaker Overland and why he believes slowing down and enjoying the journey can completely change the way you travel. We also dive into what makes these expedition trucks different from a traditional RV, where travelers can take them, what someone should expect when renting one, and some of Ryan’s favorite places to explore around Vancouver Island and Western Canada. In This Episode How Ryan’s world travels helped inspire Skybreaker Overland Why the rental vehicle can become part of the adventure What makes Skybreaker Overland’s expedition trucks unique How the trucks are designed for off-grid travel Where renters can take the vehicles What you need to know about insurance and pricing How capable the trucks are when the pavement ends Exploring Vancouver Island and Western Canada Why slowing down can lead to a better travel experience Ryan’s advice for someone considering their first overland adventure Learn More Visit Skybreaker Overland to learn more about their expedition trucks, rental options, and available adventures. Connect With Us Follow Beyond The Wheel Podcast for more conversations with the people, companies, and innovators shaping the RV, overland, and outdoor industries. The post Skybreaker Overland: Why the Adventure Starts Before You Arrive appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post Skybreaker Overland: Why the Adventure Starts Before You Arrive appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

  2. Aug 6

    Angel Guard Cookware: The Safety Innovation That Could Change Every RV Kitchen

    What if the biggest safety upgrade for your RV wasn’t a new braking system or backup camera, but your cookware? Eric Leblanc, founder of Angel Guard Cookware, joins us on this episode of Beyond The Wheel to discuss an innovation that challenges something we’ve all taken for granted for generations: cookware that sits on a burner and relies on gravity to stay in place. Eric responded to preventable kitchen-burn emergencies when children pulled hot liquids from a stove and sustained injuries. Those experiences inspired him to create something that could help prevent similar accidents before they happen. The result is Angel Guard, the world’s first locking cookware system designed specifically for RVs. Its patented quarter-turn locking system securely fastens pots and pans to the burner grate. This helps prevent cookware from sliding or tipping during travel, on uneven campsites, or during everyday cooking. When finished, the cookware unlocks in seconds for cleaning and storage. During our conversation, we discussed: How Eric’s career as a firefighter inspired Angel Guard. The real-world problem Angel Guard was created to solve. How an idea became a patented product and a growing business. How the quarter-turn locking system works. The engineering challenges behind designing locking cookware. The materials and coatings used to create safer cookware. Why Angel Guard is especially well-suited for RVs and other mobile lifestyles. Stackability, storage, and making the most of small RV kitchens. Performance on propane, induction, and other cooking surfaces. The future of cookware safety and where Angel Guard is headed next. Whether you travel in a motorhome, fifth wheel, travel trailer, van, or care about making your kitchen safer, this conversation offers an interesting look at how one innovation could change the way we think about cooking on the road. Learn more: Angel Guard Cookware If you enjoyed this episode, we’d appreciate it if you’d subscribe to Beyond The Wheel, leave a review, and share this episode with another RVer who enjoys discovering innovative products that make life on the road safer and more enjoyable. The post Angel Guard Cookware: The Safety Innovation That Could Change Every RV Kitchen appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post Angel Guard Cookware: The Safety Innovation That Could Change Every RV Kitchen appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

  3. Jul 23

    The Biggest RV Industry Stories from the Last Four Weeks

    The RV industry may be experiencing a slowdown in sales, but that doesn’t mean companies are standing still. In this Driver’s Edition of Beyond the Wheel, Kenny and Sean take a closer look at the biggest RV industry stories from the past month and explains what they could mean for RV owners, shoppers, manufacturers, dealers, and the future of RVing. In This Episode • Retail RV sales continue to decline. Is this simply a market correction, and could it actually be a great time to buy? • Patrick Industries and Lippert announce plans to merge, creating what would become one of the largest suppliers in the RV industry. We discuss the potential benefits, concerns, and what it could mean for RV manufacturers and consumers. • Airstream continues investing in employee training, manufacturing improvements, product development, and quality despite softer sales. Is this the right strategy during a slower market? • Outdoor hospitality continues to thrive. KOA earns recognition as one of the Top 50 Most Profitable Franchises while hotel brands continue investing in glamping and outdoor accommodations. What does this say about the future of camping? • Blue Compass keeps expanding and is once again recognized as the world’s top Airstream dealer. We discuss dealership consolidation and whether independent RV dealers can continue to compete. Finally, we connect all of these stories together and ask an important question: Is the RV industry quietly preparing for its next growth cycle? With the Hershey RV Show just around the corner, this may be one of the most important times in recent years to watch where the industry is headed. We’d Love Your Thoughts • Would you buy an RV today or wait another year?• Do you think the Patrick/Lippert merger is good for the industry?• Will glamping create the next generation of RV owners?• What story do you think will have the biggest impact over the next few years? Leave your thoughts in the comments. We’d love to hear your perspective. Subscribe If you enjoy Beyond the Wheel, be sure to subscribe so you never miss future interviews, Driver’s Edition episodes, and conversations about everything happening in the world of RVing. The post The Biggest RV Industry Stories from the Last Four Weeks appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post The Biggest RV Industry Stories from the Last Four Weeks appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

  4. Jul 9

    Inside Winnebago’s All-New Elora/Resa with Amelia Sheckler

    What happens when you combine the maneuverability of a camper van with the interior space and flexibility of a Class C motorhome? In this episode of Beyond The Wheel Podcast, we welcome Amelia Sheckler from Winnebago to discuss one of the company’s newest innovations, the all-new Winnebago Elora/Resa. Amelia takes us behind the scenes of the vehicle’s development, explaining the design philosophy behind the Elora/Resa and how Winnebago created a motorhome that blends the compact footprint of a camper van with the comfort and functionality of a Class C. We also discuss the engineering decisions, innovative layout, sleeping capacity, storage solutions, and why this compact RV feels much larger than its exterior dimensions suggest. If you’ve ever wondered whether a camper van or a small Class C is the better choice, this episode offers a fascinating look at a vehicle designed to deliver the best of both worlds. Topics Covered • Amelia Sheckler’s role at Winnebago• The inspiration behind the new Elora/Resa• Is it a camper van or a Class C? Understanding the differences• How a cutaway chassis differs from a traditional van chassis• European design influences behind the Elora/Resa• Exterior dimensions and overall footprint• Interior layout and how it creates a surprisingly spacious feel• Large windows and maximizing natural light• Sleeping arrangements and passenger capacity• Storage solutions and cargo space• Ram 3500 chassis and vehicle specifications• Why the Elora/Resa is designed for both everyday driving and extended travel• Who the ideal Elora/Resa owner is• What makes this platform different from other compact RVs Elora/Resa Highlights • Approximately 20 feet long for exceptional maneuverability• Built on the Ram 3500 chassis• Seating for up to six passengers• Sleeps up to four people• Residential queen bed conversion• Compact exterior with Class C interior advantages• Large panoramic windows for outstanding visibility and natural light• Designed to blend van accessibility with greater interior comfort Learn More Interested in learning more about the all-new Winnebago Elora and Resa? Explore floorplans, features, specifications, photos, and more on Winnebago’s official product page: Winnebago Elora & Resa: https://www.winnebago.com/models/elora-resa-family About Amelia Sheckler Amelia Sheckler is the product design manager at Winnebago for the Elora/Resa and joins us to share the story behind the development of the all-new Elora/Resa, offering insights into the design process, engineering decisions, and the vision for this exciting new addition to the Winnebago lineup. Connect With Beyond The Wheel Podcast If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us continue bringing you conversations with the people shaping the future of the RV and outdoor recreation industries. Follow Beyond The Wheel Podcast for more interviews with manufacturers, engineers, innovators, and outdoor industry leaders. Thanks for listening, and we’ll see you on the next episode. The post Inside Winnebago’s All-New Elora/Resa with Amelia Sheckler appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post Inside Winnebago’s All-New Elora/Resa with Amelia Sheckler appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

  5. Jun 25

    Inside the All-New Winnebago ARKA with Stephanie Whittington

    In this episode of Beyond The Wheel, we sit down with Stephanie Whittington, Senior Product Manager at Winnebago, to discuss one of the most anticipated adventure vehicles to hit the market: the all-new Winnebago ARKA. Stephanie shares the story behind the ARKA’s development, the growing adventure truck segment, and how Winnebago designed a vehicle capable of taking travelers farther off the grid while still delivering the comfort and convenience RV owners expect. From heated floors and hydronic heating to a massive lithium battery system and true four-wheel-drive capability, the ARKA is designed to be a self-contained basecamp for adventure. In This Episode Meet Stephanie Whittington • Senior Product Manager for Winnebago’s Backcountry Adventure Portfolio • Oversees: Revel EKKO ARKA • How her passion for camping, hiking, skiing, and full-time RVing influences product development What Is the Winnebago ARKA? • Winnebago’s first entry into the growing Adventure Truck category • Designed for travelers who want to venture far beyond traditional campgrounds • Combines off-road capability with premium residential comfort • Built as a true off-grid basecamp for extended adventures Why Winnebago Built the ARKA • Growing demand for more independence from campgrounds • Customer feedback drove much of the vehicle’s development • Designed for adventurers graduating from: Rooftop tent setups Truck campers Off-road trailers Overlanding rigs • Four years of development and testing before launch Chassis and Off-Road Capability • Built on the Ram 5500 diesel chassis • Available in: Standard cab Crew cab • True four-wheel-drive system with low-range gearing • Zero-torsion frame design allows the coach and chassis to flex independently on rough terrain • Integrated inclinometer system through Winnebago Connect • Designed for remote campsites, trailheads, and backcountry exploration Comfort Meets Capability Stephanie explains how the ARKA balances ruggedness with luxury, including: • Heated hydronic floors • Four independently controlled heating zones • Continuous hot water • Single-fuel design powered entirely by diesel • Spacious interior with premium materials • Large refrigerator and ample counter space • Innovative hidden bath design • Massive shower for a vehicle of this size Flexible Sleeping Arrangements • Twin bed configuration • Queen bed configuration • King bed configuration • North-south sleeping layout • Molded roof design allows occupants to sit up comfortably in bed • Large windows and sky hatch for stargazing Off-Grid Power System Standard Overland Package Includes: • 8.4kWh Lithionics lithium battery • Expandable to 16.8kWh • EcoFlow Power Hub • 3.6kW inverter • 800 watts of roof-mounted solar • Expandable to 1,200 watts of solar • Three-alternator charging system • Ability to recharge from 10% to 100% in less than two hours of driving Climate Control and Four-Season Performance • Elwell Timberline 2.0 hydronic heating system • Heated floors • Heated tanks and plumbing • 20,000 BTU DC air conditioner • R-15 roof and floor insulation • R-12 wall insulation • Rated for temperatures from -10°F to 120°F Storage and Cargo Flexibility • Full-height rear gear garage • Modular U-shaped lounge and dinette system • L-track cargo tie-down system • Flexible storage for: Bikes Climbing gear Skis Snowboards Kayaks • Additional storage inside the crew cab Towing Capability • Tow rating up to 15,000 pounds • Ideal for: Jeeps Boats Side-by-sides Utility trailers Key Specifications at a Glance • Ram 5500 Diesel Chassis • Adventure Truck Platform • True 4WD with Low Range • 60-Gallon Fresh Water Capacity • Up to 16.8kWh Lithium Battery Capacity • Up to 1,200 Watts Solar • Heated Floors • Four-Season Capability • 15,000-Pound Tow Rating • Up to 26’7″ Overall Length (Crew Cab) To learn more about the Winnebago ARKA click here: https://www.winnebago.com/models/arka The post Inside the All-New Winnebago ARKA with Stephanie Whittington appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post Inside the All-New Winnebago ARKA with Stephanie Whittington appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

  6. Jun 11

    Supersede: Could Recycled Plastic Replace Plywood in RVs?

    What if the future of RV construction isn’t wood at all? In this episode of Beyond The Wheel Podcast, we sit down with Sean Petterson, Co-Founder and CEO of Supersede. We discuss a material that could change the way RVs, trailers, boats, and even homes are built. Sean shares how his experience building innovative products led to the creation of Supersede, a structural panel made from recycled plastic designed to replace traditional plywood. We discuss the challenges of water damage, weight reduction, sustainability, supply chain issues, and what it takes to convince manufacturers to move away from materials they’ve relied on for generations. Topics covered include: • Why Supersede was created• The limitations of traditional plywood in RV construction• The use of recycled plastic in structural applications• Waterproof and rot-proof building materials• Weight savings and efficiency benefits• Sustainability and recycling initiatives• Adoption challenges within the RV industry• Future applications beyond RVs and trailers• What the future of RV construction may look like Learn more about Supersede: Supersede Official Website Supersede manufactures structural sheathing products made from recycled plastics designed to be waterproof, rot-proof, termite-resistant, and fully recyclable. The company’s focus is on providing sustainable alternatives to traditional wood-based building materials. Connect with Beyond The Wheel Podcast Subscribe for future episodes featuring leaders, innovators, and experts from across the RV and outdoor recreation industries. The post Supersede: Could Recycled Plastic Replace Plywood in RVs? appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post Supersede: Could Recycled Plastic Replace Plywood in RVs? appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

  7. May 28

    Driver’s Edition – State of the RV Market & Industry Trends

    This week on Beyond The Wheel, Kenny and Sean dive into what they’re seeing across the RV industry as the 2026 travel season ramps up. From shifting buyer behavior and changing campground trends to the rise of off-grid adventure rigs, this episode explores where the RV market stands right now and where it may be headed next. The conversation covers everything from dealer inventory and financing pressures to reservation fatigue, dry camping growth, and whether RVs are becoming too complicated with modern technology. Kenny also shares thoughts from recent time spent around the all-new Winnebago ARKA and the growing demand for true adventure-focused RVs. Topics in this episode include: Reactions to the Winnebago ARKA after Overland Expo Sean’s recent outdoor adventure trip Current shifts in RV buyer behavior Dealer inventory, pricing, and negotiating leverage Financing rates and affordability concerns The used RV market reset Why premium adventure rigs continue to grow The rise of solar, lithium, internet connectivity, and off-grid capability Whether RVs are becoming too dependent on technology Campground reservation fatigue and rising camping costs Love’s, Flying J, casinos, public land, and overnight travel strategies How social media is shaping RV expectations Why smaller RVs and vans continue gaining popularity Factory lithium, larger battery systems, and the off-grid power race Towables still dominating overall RV sales Why manufacturers may finally be listening more closely to customer feedback The episode also includes predictions for where the industry could be heading next, including affordability concerns, younger buyers entering RVing differently, and whether simpler RVs may eventually make a comeback. Questions discussed during the show: Would you buy new or used right now? Are campgrounds becoming too expensive? What RV trend are you tired of? Would you prioritize luxury or capability? Are RVs becoming too tech-heavy? Thanks for listening to Beyond The Wheel. If you enjoy the show, make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share the episode with fellow RVers and travelers. Safe travels. The post Driver’s Edition – State of the RV Market & Industry Trends appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post Driver’s Edition – State of the RV Market & Industry Trends appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

  8. May 14

    The Growth of Overlanding, Trend or the Future of RV Travel?

    Overlanding has exploded in popularity over the last few years, but is it just another social media trend or is it changing the future of RV travel for good? In this episode of Beyond The Wheel, Kenny and Sean take a deep dive into the rapid growth of overlanding, why so many travelers are being drawn to it, and how the RV industry is responding. The guys discuss how overlanding has evolved from a niche off-road hobby into a broader lifestyle focused on self-reliant travel, off-grid camping, and exploring places beyond the traditional campground. They also talk about the differences between the polished version of overlanding seen on Instagram and the reality of traveling remote roads, managing resources, and dealing with the unexpected. This episode also covers: Why overlanding has become so popular How social media helped fuel the movement The rise of off-grid and adventure focused RVs Why more RVers are seeking dispersed camping and remote travel The reality of overlanding versus the online image Responsible travel and protecting public lands Whether overlanding is becoming too expensive How vehicles like the Winnebago ARKA fit into the future of the market Where the overlanding industry may be heading next Whether you are a hardcore off-road enthusiast, a weekend explorer, or simply curious about why adventure vehicles are suddenly everywhere, this episode offers a realistic look at one of the fastest growing trends in the outdoor industry. Sources & Reports Mentioned Overland Expo KOA Camping & Outdoor Hospitality Report The Dyrt Camping Report RV Industry Association (RVIA) Statistics The post The Growth of Overlanding, Trend or the Future of RV Travel? appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post The Growth of Overlanding, Trend or the Future of RV Travel? appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

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4.7
out of 5
36 Ratings

About

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

Information

  • Creator
    Beyond the Wheel
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    232
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    Beyond the Wheel

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