RV Out West

Brooks Smothers
  • 4.9 (40)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

RV Out West is a Pacific Northwest travel podcast that explores the RV lifestyle, camping adventures, and road trips across Washington, Oregon, Idaho and beyond. Hosted by Brooks Smothers, this show shares insider tips, destination guides and authentic stories from the open road. RV Out West inspires you to explore new destinations, connect with nature, and enjoy the adventure that comes with hitting the open road; one campsite, one story and one unforgettable journey at a time.  🎧 Tune in for travel inspiration, RV tips and stories that celebrate the spirit of adventure in the Pacific Northwest.

  1. 12/09/2025

    A Look Ahead to 2026

    The end of the year is in sight, and 2026 is already peeking over the horizon. In this week’s final episode of 2025, we’re taking a moment to look ahead, dream a little bigger, and talk about what’s coming next for this show and for the adventures waiting out on the open road. As we shift gears toward a brand-new year, we’re talking goals, fresh possibilities, and the excitement that comes with a clean slate. For RVers and road-trippers, the future is always just one highway away — and 2026 promises even more stories, more Pacific Northwest exploration, and more conversations that celebrate life lived outdoors. Think of this moment like a GPS recalculating: not because we’re lost, but because a better, more scenic route has just appeared. If you love RV travel, if you dream of new destinations, this episode is a chance to pause, reflect, and look forward with anticipation and optimism. Buckle up because 2026 is rolling in fast, and the upcoming season of RV Out West is already shaping up to be our best yet. Tune in and let’s get excited for what’s beyond the horizon.  Send us a text Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

    14 min

  2. 12/01/2025

    Inventing the Future of RVing with Mark Ng

    Travel and adventure take many forms, and the RV lifestyle is no exception. In this week’s episode of RV Out West, we sit down with Mark, a full-time RVer, inventor, and entrepreneur whose journey highlights the many ways people choose to live life on the road. Some RVers travel nonstop, others settle into a seasonal rhythm, and many choose a hybrid approach—moving when inspired and staying put when it feels right. Mark has lived all three versions, giving him a rare and insightful perspective on the evolving world of full-time RVing. Mark shares why he chose RV life, how his travels have shaped him, and what he loves most about exploring the Pacific Northwest. From rugged coastlines to quiet artsy towns, he walks us through the places that continue to energize his spirit and fuel his curiosity. But Mark isn’t just an RVer—he’s also an inventor working on a product that could genuinely revolutionize the RV industry. While he’s not ready to reveal everything just yet, he offers a glimpse into the problem he’s solving and why his idea could change the way RVers live when they are on the road. If you’re interested in full-time RVing, regional travel around the Pacific Northwest, or the future of RV innovation, this episode delivers inspiration and insight in equal measure. Listen now to hear Mark’s incredible RV journey; and get an exclusive first look at the groundbreaking idea he believes could reshape the future of RVing. Send us a text Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

    30 min

  3. 11/24/2025

    Freedom on the Road with Retired Road Tripping

    Life on the road looks a little different for Kevin and Lareka of Retired Road Tripping, the YouTube duo who traded traditional living for full-time RV life. In this episode, we dive into their adventures across the Pacific Northwest, from rugged coastlines to volcanic peaks, and explore the experiences that shaped their decision to live on the road. Their story is driven by freedom, curiosity, and a commitment to making the most of every mile traveled. Kevin and Lareka share what sparked their transition into RV living, how they built a life designed around movement, and the lessons they’ve learned navigating campgrounds, backroads, and new communities throughout the PNW. From favorite destinations to unexpected challenges, they offer an honest look at what it really means to embrace full-time RV life as a couple. Since Kevin is a retired Law Enforcement officer and former firearms instructor, we also discuss an important and often-overlooked topic for RVers: traveling with firearms. Kevin breaks down the essentials, including legal considerations, safe storage, and what RVers need to understand before carrying on the road. His insight provides clarity for anyone curious about responsible firearm travel while RVing. If you’re dreaming about full-time RV life, planning a Pacific Northwest road trip, or simply enjoy stories about life lived with intention, this episode delivers inspiration, practical advice, and thoughtful conversation. Join us as Retired Road Tripping shares their journey, their “why,” and their mission to help others find freedom on the road. Send us a text Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

    32 min

  4. 11/17/2025

    Campfire Stories with Ilyssa and Dave Kyu

    Gathering around a campfire is one of the most timeless traditions in outdoor life. The crackling flames, the glow of the embers, and the warmth beneath the open sky create the perfect atmosphere for sharing stories, laughter, and memories that last for generations. Campfire conversations are a cherished part of RV living and camping, and they hold a special place in the heart of so many adventurers. In this episode of RV Out West, we explore the power of storytelling outdoors and how a single spark can light up meaningful connection. Ilyssa and Dave Kyu, the editors behind the celebrated Campfire Stories book series, join us on the show to share their passion for storytelling in the great outdoors. With a deep love for America’s natural spaces and the tales that shape them, they have curated collections that blend history, folklore, poetry, and lived experiences from our national parks and beyond. Their work invites readers and travelers alike to slow down, listen, and connect more meaningfully with the landscapes they explore. Their new Campfire Stories series Beloved Regions immerses readers in the storytelling traditions woven throughout America’s most treasured natural landscapes, offering rich journeys through diverse histories, lore, and environments found in national parks and beyond. Through the power of these collected voices, Ilyssa and Dave invite readers to experience each landscape more deeply, inspiring a sense of place, connection, and wonder. Tune in to hear how Ilyssa and Dave are keeping the tradition of campfire storytelling alive and inspiring deeper connections to the places we explore.  Send us a text Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

    37 min

  5. 11/11/2025

    Chasing Fish and Rodeos with Stan Cromlish

    Stan is a full-time RVer who travels the Pacific Northwest and beyond, chasing the perfect fly fishing waters and the thrill of rodeo life. He shares his journey of adventure, connection, and freedom on the open road while offering practical insights for anyone curious about the RV life from full-time to weekenders. Between casting flies in quiet alpine rivers to experiencing the excitement of the region’s best rodeos, his stories paint a vivid picture of life powered by passion and exploration. You’ll hear useful RV tips, travel advice, and inspiration to help create your own road-living dreams. Stan shares the top rodeo events, and he even opens up about a few must-visit fly fishing destinations, and his mindset that keeps him moving from one great adventure to the next. So, press play and join the journey. Send us a text Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

    33 min

  6. 11/03/2025

    Full-Time RV Life After Cancer: Carrie’s Story

    Carrie Silverhorn joins RV Out West to share her inspiring journey of resilience, reinvention, and life on the open road. A full-time RVer, certified RV technician and inspector, and published author, Carrie’s story is one of courage and transformation. After overcoming a cancer diagnosis, she made the bold choice to embrace the RV lifestyle, trading convention for freedom and self-discovery.  Carrie talks about how she turned her challenges into motivation, finding empowerment through learning the ins and outs of RV maintenance and repair. Her journey highlights the independence that comes from mastering your rig and creating a life on your own terms. From work-camping in Oregon to exploring the breathtaking beauty of the Pacific Northwest, Carrie discovered how RV living can offer not just adventure, but also healing and a renewed sense of purpose. You’ll hear firsthand what it’s like to live full-time on the road, how becoming a certified RV technician can open new doors, and what lessons come from embracing a simpler, more intentional lifestyle. Carrie’s story is a reminder that RVing isn’t just about travel—it’s about freedom, self-reliance, and choosing the path that feels right for you.  If you’ve been dreaming about hitting the road, exploring the Pacific Northwest, or finding a way to live life on your own terms, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical insight. Tune in to hear how one woman turned adversity into adventure and found her best life behind the wheel. Learn more about Carrie over at: http://carriesilverhorn.com/gstrv/ Follow along on her adventures on IG: mygypsysoultravels Send us a text Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

    33 min

  7. 10/27/2025

    The Great Fall RV Clean

    Fall is the perfect time to give your RV a fresh start with a deep clean and a good declutter before winter sets in. After a summer of dusty roads, campfires, and adventures, your RV deserves some care to keep it in top shape. In this episode, we dive into practical fall RV cleaning and organization tips to help you refresh your rig, from scrubbing and sanitizing your interior to decluttering gear you no longer use. You’ll learn how seasonal maintenance not only keeps your RV looking great but also protects your investment for years to come. We’ll also share smart ways to reorganize your storage spaces, making setup and breakdown at camp easier and more enjoyable. If you’re storing your RV for winter or getting ready for cold-weather adventures, this episode will inspire you to turn fall cleaning into a yearly ritual. Keeping your home on wheels clean, functional, and ready means more time for adventure, and less time hunting for that missing gear next spring. Send us a text Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

    18 min

  8. 10/20/2025

    13 Ghost Towns Across the Pacific Northwest

    Step back in time and explore the ghost towns of the Pacific Northwest, where remnants of the past reveal stories of grit, ambition, and change. During the late 1800s, settlers poured into Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, chasing gold, timber, and new beginnings. Many towns flourished briefly before being left behind when fortunes faded. From Silver City, Idaho, to Bodie, Washington, these once-bustling communities now stand quiet—old storefronts, saloons, and mining relics offering a rare glimpse into life on the rugged frontier. Some towns are easy to reach, while others invite adventure, tucked deep in mountain valleys or along forgotten dirt roads. These ghost towns are living history, each one a reflection of the perseverance that built the Northwest. Exploring them connects you to a time of discovery and determination while offering the thrill of adventure on the open road. Take your RV, follow the trails of the past, and uncover the gold rush stories that shaped the Pacific Northwest. Send us a text Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

    18 min
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Trailer

4.9
out of 5
40 Ratings

About

RV Out West is a Pacific Northwest travel podcast that explores the RV lifestyle, camping adventures, and road trips across Washington, Oregon, Idaho and beyond. Hosted by Brooks Smothers, this show shares insider tips, destination guides and authentic stories from the open road. RV Out West inspires you to explore new destinations, connect with nature, and enjoy the adventure that comes with hitting the open road; one campsite, one story and one unforgettable journey at a time.  🎧 Tune in for travel inspiration, RV tips and stories that celebrate the spirit of adventure in the Pacific Northwest.

Information

  • Creator
    Brooks Smothers
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2025
  • Episodes
    180
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 RV Out West
  • Show Website
    RV Out West

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