Ep. 05 | The Morning Nomad Podcast - The MOTHER of a Solo Female Van Lifer

[@navigatingwithnana]

What a wonderful mom you have! Her understanding of how to live fully, being aware of surroundings, but not allowing fear to overcome our minds and pursuits is so healthy. Your "balance" obviously comes from being raised so well. Bravo, mom! 🥰🥰

[@ourhumblecommode]

You're so like your mother, you look like her too. She's lovely and brave, kind and wise . . . keep being yourself 🙂

[@heyitsjude22]

🎯 Two peas in a pod!! Love them❤

[@cherrette63]

I lost my mother recently and I can't help but feel how special this video will be to you one day. It warms my heart with a few tears. I miss her terribly. Thank you for sharing

[@GTC1967]

Your mother is a truly extraordinary woman. Wow! To have a partner like her, I have no doubt, made your father's life something beyond extraordinary. Amazing!

[@mikalawoods]

I might have to send this to my mom, I'm in the process of building out my van and hoping to finish it this summer, and I know my mom is supportive but she definitely worries! Thanks for sharing 😊❤

[@karenb1627]

That's a really good idea. It may help put her mind at ease.

[@leannes5100]

I’m building out my bus now and I’m thinking the same thing.

[@mcspin50]

I had someone say to me that once you’re a mother you will always have worry. Maybe not always in the forefront but it can be tough to let it go and breathe sometimes. Once in a while I’ll open up our messaging thread on my iPhone and check their locations, especially if the older two are traveling to and from their homes out west for our annual Boundary Waters trip just to make sure they’re making progress. You have your Mother’s laugh, Linnea.

[@alwayselliemay]

I love this conversation. Your family has such a calm and grounded energy, and the way you look at each other and listen when the other is talking makes me teary. I so wish we could have heard/seen a podcast episode with your dad too, because I have no doubt he exudes this groundedness too.

[@yodamaster202]

I love that laugh®Sister, brother mom and probably the dog too..totally crazy bunch

[@travelmannn]

T u,

[@brendagail69]

Your mother is so amazing, she had me in tears talking about how she had to accept that she couldn’t be both the mother and father to you and your brothers. I myself am 53 years old and am also a mother to 2 boys and 1 girl who are all in their late twenties and I support them fully in whatever they choose for their lives and hearing her talk about the way she allows you kids to live your own lives as it confirmed that my choice in parenting style not only worked for my kids but it has also worked for you and your brothers as well and kind of gave me a sense of peace and self assurance. I am very close with my children and we have very open communication about everything in life and I see that between you and your mom and it makes my heart happy for you and her. You have a precious family and are a very interesting and intelligent lady and as a couple who owns two campers and a van and run to the outdoors any time we can, we truIy enjoy your adventures a lot.

[@lydialewis3277]

The kind of mother I wish I had growing up. That was special

[@tomfowler3653]

So enjoyable to see a mother and daughter have such a wonderful conversation. What an awesome relationship they have!!!

[@myhumblelife7756]

Your mom is wonderful! 💜 I love how supportive she is of you! 💜

[@flockoturtles]

Mom, You should be proud of raising such an amazing daughter.

[@candacelemming858]

(Can be proud, because I think she is) 😉

[@sandrahunt199]

I can't imagine how hard that was for your mom. Having to tell you about your dad. I'm sure that was a very hard challenge. Mom your more then enough 😉

[@megharts_]

This is so beautiful Linnea, I got such a tear in my eye when you were discussing your father. I really enjoyed this and send my love to you and your lovely mama 🤎

[@melissamcdonald8760]

I think your mom is amazing. My mom is the same. At the end of 2020 my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer. I had amazing plans to go to Europe to volunteer on a cruise and help families with disabilities. My mom told me that she trusts me and to have fun. Covid happened and then my mom got her diagnosis. With the world closed I was able to devote time to help her get better. She is in remission and doing well. Last year over the holidays I got asked to volunteer on cruises again. I asked my mom if it was ok for me to volunteer instead of spending the holidays with her. She said you go live your life. You took care of me when I needed it. I know you will visit us when you can just have fun. I had the best time volunteering and expanding my friends. It's always so great when we have support of those we love.

[@gpswildride]

I watched this with my 22 year old daughter, not because she's getting into van life but because I am! We both thoroughly enjoyed watching you and your Mom. It's a blessing to have the support of one's loved ones. Looking forward to the next episode.

[@thenevereverboy]

What an incredible lady your Mom is. Such a beautiful and thoughtful soul.

[@alisonplant2386]

My favourite episode so far. What a beautiful mom you have, Linnea. A very emotional watch for me. Please have you and your mom chat more another time.

[@HopeLivesHere721]

I see so much of your mother in you. You have a lot of the same expressions. You favor her a lot. She's lovely.

[@janscoville5760]

This is so heart-warming. I recently found your podcasts and I am fascinated by your van life. I worked at the DC Library for years and remember your mom coming in before she married your dad, after having kids, etc. You are both beautiful women and I appreciate both of you being so vulnerable about your lives. Thank you for this gift of sharing.

[@margoburns9085]

Linnea, I am significantly older than you, but have never felt motherly watching your videos. I am a part time overlander and vanlifer. Never think about your safety, because I've never had to worry about mine. Any mom will worry about their kids no matter where they are or what they do. Love your content and love that your mom has instilled the outdoors in you. Wonderful! Keep up the great work!

[@blessmygypsysoul_]

It is easy to see where you get your courage and strength Linnea. Your mom is an amazing lady. Blessings, love and light to you and your family. So sorry about the loss of your dad. It is clear his spirit lives on with you all.

[@GretaWargh]

I just love you guys and your relationship with one another. What you have is really rare - I do appreciate that it takes a lot of love, respect, intelligence, wisdom and courage from you both to let go and for you both to actually explore the things you want to do. And ‘Mom’ (yes it feels like you are mom for us all) the way you include your children and made a mindful choice to let them be part of your way of life from the beginning - is so refreshing. And what a legacy to pass on to your children. (instead of stopping your way of life cause you have children) It is no wonder why you have such a great daughter and two sons. Thank you both for sharing and for having these conversations with us! 🙏🏻R. E. S. P. E. C. T. Big hugs all the way from Sweden. Love Greta ❤️

[@trishwhitehouse6536]

Awesome conversation with two beautiful people. I am your mom's age and I hope I have done the same for my own kids. This video was very validation because I never heard the child's side of it, only my own inner voice telling me I had to let go and let my own kids live their lives, as hard as that was at times. Still is, always will be I suppose. I've even had to let my youngest, who has multiple handicaps, make his own mistakes and learn from then. Now *that* was hard! You guys are great! Thank you!

[@teslah2997]

great vid…..your Mom is as cool as I suspected she was….actually, she is WAAY cool! I see her in you

[@Lmt1wp]

I have an older brother (around 60) that has worked as a travel RN for years. Often he takes months off at a time to hike the PCT. So….Its not only Moms that worry but siblings. So he will send a pic of a lizard 🤣or something around once a month! 🤗To let me know he’s ok.

[@queenbutterfly4888]

Lol Aw 😊he sounds adventurous

[@margaretrosin7853]

Love your mom! And she raised 3 nice people. Showing your kids the beauty and value of wild spaces is the best way to raise them, IMO.

[@jeanninespinner2244]

Very cool that your mom is laid back as she is she seems like a very pleasant person, we all should have that relationship with our kids...✌️❤️

[@Lyssa72]

You are so blessed to have such a wonderful relationship with your mother - always treasure her. She raised a strong independent and wonderful woman in you and her pride shows - with you and also with your brothers. I don’t think we, as mothers, ever stop worrying about our children though. Mine are 30 and 22 with the youngest getting ready to graduate college. My biggest struggle has been learning to let them go (so to speak) and now trying to figure out who I am without them here. If I didn’t have 5 GSD’s - I would seriously load up and hit the happy trails. I hope you all have a wonderful week!

[@andrewjamesokey7559]

Hi Mom! Loved listening to two thoughtful, loving people talk about their trust and understanding of each other.

[@chriscaffee4932]

Outward Bound 1972, Collegiate Range, Colorado. Changed my entire life. Way to go, mom.

[@Jonsmama1]

My daughter is at a university in another state and I was worried about her all the time. It's been a year-and-a-half and I realize that there is nothing I can do except pray and put her in God's hands. He can do much more for her than I ever could even if I was standing right next to her all the time. I'm getting there. You have a lovely mother and your father seemed amazing as well. They raised some awesome children. The short glimpse we saw of Noah, you can tell that he has a sweet spirit like you, Linnea. I'm sure it makes your mother feel better that she knows you are smart, you have a weapon of choice, and especially you have your sweet and strong, Akela, by your side.

[@divinewrath3142]

I absolutely loved this! Your mom would worry no matter where you were. As women we have different risks in life. We live with those risks no matter where we are. We can't allow that to stop us from living. Your mom gets that, and that is a blessing. I lost my mom a few years back. We were really close. So it always makes my heart so happy to see people treasure their family. Esp their parents. Your mom seems like an exceptionally strong and cool woman. ❤ & Sorry for your loss. It's the worst growing experience we go through as adult kids.

[@suezettefruge3234]

I am 72 years old. Love watching you and your adventures. You have a sweet mom.

[@judithsimoni357]

Your mother is amazing and you are so like her. You are both beautiful! I am one of those that are much older that watch your channels, 78. Your laughs brought a smile to my face. God bless you both

[@DixieJohnson-y2p]

I gave my son a tent when he went to college (shelter) one of the needs in life. He used it to live in for a few weeks. He found work at a friends parent farm. We love our children more than they will ever know.

[@53goforit]

Linnea I love ur mom she is great, and you are just like her just younger, your laugh, your mom laugh, expressions…

[@sandrahunt199]

As a mom, you worry no matter what you do. Your mom is so great. She's extremely logical and she knows you the most. So after all is said and done, you as kids growing up, will do what you want. We as parents have to let you grow into who you are going to be. 💖💖 I think that the quality of life your giving yourself Linnea is beautiful and I really hope you continue.

[@mattlemmon453]

So worth the wait... Fantastic content ! Thanks for sharing ....

[@sweet_by_and_by]

This is one of my favourite podcast episodes of all time and one I love to revisit. Your mother is absolutely lovely, and you two have such a great relationship! Would love to see an episode like this where you sit down and discuss your different lives as nomads, and your other brother's take on having nomad siblings while choosing a more conventional life. Congratulations on becoming an aunt and to your mom for becoming a Grandma!

[@susanlewis1875]

Thank you for sharing such a sweet visit. You're very fortunate to have each other.

[@GenXtothe7thPower]

As a parent of adult children, you never stop worrying and thinking about them, but I do know my children utilize good judgment and I crammed as much essential lessons into the first 18 years that I possibly could. I'd probably want a Garmin with my son or daughter (which, I think I've seen one on you?) I think Akela is a great safety buddy! Your mom is amazing, as are you!

[@pedalthewoods]

You have a wonderful mother. I live in wisconsin myself. 5 yrs ago I traveled here and fell I love with the beauty of this place myself

[@wendylbranchfield7959]

I simply ADORE YOUR MOM!!!! She is such an elegant and gentle soul. You two have the girl’s version of my Son and myself. However, I think I “Mother” too Intensely still, lol. It is amazing how similar you and your mother are: your laugh, the way you sit and the way you intently listen. Just beautiful!

[@cynthiaward2122]

two amazing women. so appreciate being able to see how loving and supportive relationships can be.

[@Linneaandakela]

Thank you so much for this❤️

[@debberkebile4396]

This melted my heart to see you two discussing the hard things in life...but how joyful. You're mama is on smart cookie and I relate to that so much since I am a mom of two about your same age. I just am transitioning in my build of my van that at some point in my retired life want to travel and life in my van. This warmed the soul!! It's great to follow you Linnea....you are wise beyond your years!

[@musicmarlene]

Loved the chat with your Mom…I can relate to your talk. It eas awesome. My husband and I raised 2 boys. We lived in a few different states while raising them (Oregon, Texas, Flagstaff, AZ). We moved to No. Idaho many years after they were on their own. My husband, Steve had an very adventurous spirit always in his life. Steve was a California surfer. I was raised camping and hiking. We raised our boys mostly living on rural land, had horses, garden, boats, camping, backpacking, hiking. Our boys are 47 and 48, very independent and successful in their work. They have traveled to other countries. They are both vert skateboarders, snowboard and do snowcamping, backpacking, hiking. Linea’s KZbin videos are awesome. She has strong character qualities! She can do a lot. I like the dogs in the videos too. Thanks for sharing your stories

[@susieferguson4857]

Linnea, you have inspired me so much into van living. Life has lead me to want the solitude and peace van life gives. I’m 62 but I don’t feel it. Not as strong as you but still want to do it. I love your momma. Y’all are so much alike. My parents aren’t with us anymore. So I’ll be able to do it for just the pleasure. I feel very blessed. I love your videos and now your podcast. Thank you for inspiring me to actually doing this for myself. I live in the south near the smoky mountains. One day I’d love to sit and talk. Take care.

[@chriskelly9013]

Thank you for sharing your mother with us. I'm one of your older subscribers and I worry about your safety so your mom doesn't need to.

[@Anna.Z.]

I've watched it at least 4 times, but still want to watch it as it reminds me of times when my mom was in my life. So happy for you, Linnea, to have a relationship like that. So sorry for your loss. Just cherish your family when you can. Love from UK xx

[@kellymarks5720]

So awesome to meet your mom LInnea! I see a lot of her in you, in all the good ways! Kudos to your mom for supporting you all, for getting through her grief and continuing to enjoy her life!

[@karenb1627]

Integrity , balance, and boundaries. What a sweet interview. Gretchen is a beautiful human and it's clear to see how each of her beautiful children and pursuing living, really living. Oh my, she is funny. Thank you for this. I am one of your older viewers and raised my daughter, 25, alone. You can see all the love pouring out of you both. We lost dad in 2018. I still talk to my dad too. Thank you for sharing with us. Xxoo

[@MOTORVESSELFREEDOM]

Gawd….Apples dont fall far from the tree…..Mom you raised (and Steve of course) a wonderful daughter and sons…

[@kathylewis4071]

truly impowering, soul searching and most of all sweet... big hugs to you both from a mom with a daughter and granddaughter who love to adventure...

[@ashleighbruns9575]

Thank for such deep and real sharing about losing your husband and talking openly about that journey and how you still draw strength from him.

[@hfortenberry]

Oh my, your mother is so precious. I just cried a little bit watching that. I'm a 55-year old female and have also had this question, wondering how your Mom feels about your life. I too want to have the van life so I TOTALLY get what you're doing; but, I also know that it has to worry her. Parents always worry about and want to protect their children. Thank you for this video. She's precious and such a wonderful mother. Update: Please don't ever say to your Mom again "Stop bothering me". That must be painful for her to hear. Just letting you know to please be kind to her. I think you are mostly kind but oooohhh OUCH! That must have hurt her. She reminds me a LOT of my mother, very loving, kind, wonderful to talk with about vulnerable things, strong, intelligent, tender-hearted. HUGS to your Mom 🤗

[@shelly2024blessings]

Linnea, great conversation with your mom. I believe we all have a set time here on earth for our souls to have a human experience. I get enjoyment watching your adventures and take comfort in sensing that you are in tune with your inner self allowing you to give your soul an incredible journey. It is this new perspective that I've gained that is allowing me to start my van life.

[@swadfihri8278]

I love your mother for understanding your life journey. Keep being you and be happy ❤️❤️

[@no_worries_van]

Your mom is awesome!

[@jl33278]

You and your Mom have a wonderful open relationship and she is happy for you. You are so responsible and very aware and don’t take risks.

[@daynacorp]

Video of you two made me smile, laugh, cry and take a very deep breath 😮‍💨!! Thank you for your content!!

[@janetclark8754]

you are both amazing women and you are blessed to have a mom who supports you in what you do and sets an example for how to live your life for you!

[@sheripride428]

I love your mom! I love her honesty and her courage. And you look just like her♥️♥️♥️

[@wyrdadventures]

I've been to Iceland twice. Puffins nest in early May, northern lights start around August or September. I enjoyed being there in August and May... daylight forever

[@donnanichols6838]

Good talk ladies!!! Yes, as a mom, I don't think the worries ever really go away. Its like breathing...it comes with being a human , or any living creature i imagine.... Parenthood is parenthood....love is love That doesn't just stop and dry up, when our children reach adulthood. Their safety, health, and happiness, is EVERYTHING, ALWAYS!!! 🍃🤗🍃

[@pattyann7803]

I’m 69 and I would love to live in a van. I’m currently trying to persuade my husband to buy a small motorhome and travel. My daughter and her family are currently living on the road in a 40 foot travel trailer and is out west. I want to go out west and experience the beauty that is so totally different from the beauty of the eastern us.

[@RealProVanR]

What a great conversation. Respect is evident between you.

[@susanc.ganzel7108]

What a wonderful mother you have! It's evident that you take after her. You both are lovely women❤ This video is very special!

[@yonorisflores734]

Your mom is amazing 🫶🏽 so much knowledge and empathy 💚

[@mackenziewebster9553]

Wow, what a privilege to be able to share in this beautiful, thoughtful conversation between you two. Your dynamic reminds me a lot of me and my mom. I love when you laugh together and how respectful you both are of each other. Love your channel, thank you for sharing this video. It touched me deeply. You both seem like lovely people 💕

[@sandygraetz5166]

Thanks for sharing your mom…. I’m retired teacher to a 28 yr old son who has his own life and is married but oh how I miss him and long for a van so I could travel to see him and drive around the area to visit! Your mom is spot on about your life being your own and it’s not her decision… it is yours. I feel the same way and I worry to but feel similar to your mom! We’ve raised you to be strong and intelligent folk! Go forth and do your thing! I am sorry about your lost of your dad! I have lost lots of family parent and 2 siblings and a baby so.. it is a hard thing that is never overcome, but it is life too! You just go on!

[@katherinebrodie3371]

I came home from a Girl Scout camp out when I was 10 to find that my dad had died in a plane crash. My mom was 32 w 3 kids, had quit college to get married and be a mom so didn’t have a job or work history. I know how hard this must be for your mom, watching my mom over the years. She is happy now. I will pray for healing for your family.

[@dawndetelj2684]

Wow, you are both so blessed. Beautiful souls ❤️I enjoy all of your journey's, they bring me joy and peace.... Thank you for that🦋

[@andreaplante1679]

Thank you for this content. I'm a 57 year old mother of two, very independent 20 something daughters and worry about them in the same way. They are very capable, intelligent, strong young women but I will always worry about them being harmed by others.

[@suezaple4950]

Your mom is such a quiet spoken understanding women lovely personality sounds like your dad and mom gave you all a wonderful fun childhood letting you all experience nature and later on your dad and mom giving you all the freedom to experience these adventures yourselves. Even though your mom worries, That is a mom thing and she will always worry until her time to pass comes. I am so sorry about your dad what a very unfortunate thing to happen , But I bet he is watching over you all and is very proud. I cant imagine what that was like for you all and may he rest in peace. My children's father died at 43 of a massive heart attack , It is a challenge to have to tell your kids that dad is gone , Mine were suppose to see their father that weekend , they had plans to go camping, ( this brought a tear to my eye listening to your mom). god bless her. wonderful video and happy you shared it with us .

[@dianameans-freeman2613]

I totally agree with your mom on the being afraid for our children and having to talk my self out of it. Bad dreams and all. But I also feel that I want my children to live their lives all the way through!

[@nikkimuench9750]

Thank you for giving us a candid peek into your relationship with your mom through the questions you shared, this was so wonderful to watch and listen to!

[@paulinemorales3391]

I love you so much more after watching your interaction with your mother. Such a pure, honest video!

[@AndresonAnnie]

What a treasure you have in your mother and your entire family and what a gift this video is to yourself and your siblings. It is so heartwarming, open, and it exudes such familial love. Thank you.

[@emilymeister5986]

This was such a special episode. 🤍

[@idacowan1082]

....simply...lovely......thank you........

[@katarina1852]

I love Linnea’s mother. She seems like such a happy woman and a joy to be around. ❤️ Except I don’t consider cats to be a challenge. 🐱😊 But you can tell she is a good mother and has helped foster a sense of wonder, adventure and love of nature and the outdoors in her children. That is a wonderful thing.

[@thorhammer6040]

24:30 - Sorry for your loss, both of you.

[@buddyduncan2095]

Beautiful set down

[@shulamisqsg8654]

I'm crying my eyes out through thhis one

[@rhondamckinley4373]

I'm a 66 year old mom of two. There is such peace in knowing your children are happy and growing in their lives. Thank you for sharing this precious post. I'm so sorry for the loss of your dad in such a tragic way.

[@nalinesingh1758]

Beautiful mama pretty daughter very nice vlog

[@frose460]

Sweet Episode! Very cool! Greetings from Germany

[@tammydemis7851]

I absolutely love your mom! She is an inspiration for me, as you are also. I could go on & on, but am choosing not to be a bore! Missed Akela’s face! 💕

[@brotherkith]

What a lovely interview. Your mum is great! I have lived in my touring trailer for about 25 years now. Travelling in the UK and Ireland. I'm 76 now and have no plans to change my lifestyle.

[@legalpuppy8602]

Cool mama. Good video. As a mom of adult kids, the fear/worry exists often at a low level all of the time. We just live with it and hold our kids close to us in our minds.

[@brandona.341]

Thanks for the video Linnea, and Mama Linnea. Always good to see you on the channel.

[@aliciathom9633]

what a lovely mum you have! As a mother of four adventurers I resonate with much of what she expressed. Lovely to see you together! ❤️

[@billiejoepellegrino6016]

So sorry for your loss, love the bond that you two girls have.

[@jodyfitzgerald1194]

You have an amazing Mom. How lovely is she!!

[@ErikSjaastad]

So much fun getting to know your mom better. I'll send to my mom. Thanks!

[@AnnBellinger]

I’m one of your older followers. I don’t worry about you so much because you are very capable. You are aware of your surroundings and take precautions. I’m just trying to figure out how to get myself out there. ❤

[@chrisjacksonmakesstuff]

Just love this!

[@marymccowan6629]

Wow you look like your Mom. My daughter looks just like me also. Do love your Mom. My parents and sibling did alot of camping I loved it. My ex and I camped a few times he just wasn't a camper. You ate even sitting the same way in the chair.

[@Laura1221]

Awe! Love her. You’re very fortunate to have parents like you did/do. ❤️