Living in a Van Almost Broke Us (unfiltered, extended cut)

[@talandmads]

Good morning everyone!! Grab a cup of coffee or tea and hang out with us while we over analyze the past few years 😅. Have any of you gone through something that you now know strengthened you? And don’t forget, get up to 20 FREE meals with HelloFresh, just use code TALANDMADS20 at bit.ly/4esRaEq ! Offer is across 6 boxes for new subscribers only.

[@cparker7431]

Taking care of my mom with dementia was the second hardest thing I've gone through. I can't believe she passed almost 2 years ago. Divorce after 20 years, the separation (I filed) did the paperwork without a lawyer,2 years while getting my son through high school. I really love your relationshipTal and Mads. You always make me smile. You're so real. And Bowie....love that clip under water with you three!!😊😊 😊 I've never met you but feel love you both!!!Such wonderful human beings❤❤❤❤

[@johncena11475]

@@cparker7431I didn’t know that dementia can kill you

[@xrayman073]

Everything I have gone through, good or bad, has made me who I am and has me sitting here watching your fantastic videos. Thank you for sharing your adventures and baring your souls. Blessings on your next adventure and may you always live them together. #youalwaysmakeussmile

[@7paintboy]

My wife and I built a brewery, confectionery and restaurant. We did this after already having a 30+ years of owning a paint store. We are just celebrating our 1st year and are stronger because of it.

[@marksaleski9890]

Yes, dealing with the decline and deaths of my parents…in the span of about 8 months. I look back now and can’t believe we held it all together. We love your channel.

[@mannyg53]

My late wife and I were together for a little over fifty years,every relationship has ups and downs. When we lost our son in 2009 our love got us through it. We always had each other to lean on. When I lost her in 2022 it was the memories of our lives together that helped me through it. Along with discovering KZbin and the two of you,Jazz and Crystal and all the other van and bus KZbinrs helped to pull me through that dark time in my life. You helped me to learn to smile again. I hope your love lasts for a lifetime. A couple of other things, garlic is the best especially elephant garlic. Whenever I wanted to spend on something my Laurie was there to say, do you really need that. I’m sorry about jabbering away.

[@talandmads]

Wow thank you so much for sharing this with us! ❤️ No need to apologize for chatting - we love that you opened up and shared some of your life with us on here. We are honoured that we could play a small role in helping to pull you out of that dark time. Thank you for being here and being a part of our community 🫶🏻🫶🏻

[@riff2072]

Hello everyone. How did you find the channel? I found it from the "shout out" from Vanwives. Happy Sunday Morning.

[@derrickjones9882]

I saw a collab with them.

[@caroltrombley2838]

Hello, I was looking for vanlife travelers cause I found it so interesting and they popped up along with the Vanwives 😊

[@MarciaD-c3z]

Same

[@askmisspatience]

A few videos into the launch stumbled onto the channel. Haven’t missed an episode since 😊

[@berniesenske994]

I "found" these lovely ladies through two other lovely ladies; the Vanwives. Now I start my Sunday morning with both of them. ❤

[@GuyWithTheDogs]

Smiles, tears, laughs, adventure, risk-taking, relationship building, pathos...this video had it all, and more. Thank you!

[@talandmads]

Thank YOU ❤️

[@lisadaniels7873]

I am just so grateful for the two of you. I respect and appreciate your honesty, maturity, and grace. There is a beauty to your "just being real" - it is integrity. Thank you so much for sharing such vulnerable experiences with us out here in "KZbin world." Much love to the two of you (and your continued growth together) - and even more love to Bowie! (P.S. You made me cry too)🙂

[@talandmads]

Thank you so much Lisa! We are so grateful to have you watch our videos ❤️ giving Bowie lots of love from you right now!!

[@johannakuster1564]

Found you via vanwifes and I am very happy about that. So inspiring to see your relationship and your experiences! As a lesbian couple going with our old rusty sprinter for trips and holidays in the Alps its so nice to connect with your stories. Greets from Europe! You are both awesome and your relationship shines like the sun.

[@amorl4520]

As you talked about your trying times and question yourselves in the past as a couple, both of you watched each other talk . You can tell you both treasure each other. ❤

[@catawampuslife]

"I'll be celebrating 35 years with my wife in August 2025 (I'm a gal), and the fact that you guys worked through all the ups and downs over the years is what keeps you grounded. It’s so easy to walk away when things get tough, but it takes real love, respect, and commitment to work hard at finding common ground. As you grown older, we’ve both changed in different ways, and it’s important to not only learn about each other but also reflect on ourselves and how we’ve evolved as individuals. That’s the glue that holds you together."

[@ReneM246]

What a beautifully honest conversation and perspective. It's refreshing to see this side of things and healthy communication modelled. So many videos create an illusion of an "always in harmony" relationship and its unrealistic. Navigating differences and learning to love ourselves and our partner on an even deeper level is the goal 😍

[@EugeniaSoares]

Always making me smile. And the way you look to each other... Billy was just a path to build up your life. Memories are amazing, but never feel obligated to share everything here. It's your life. What I really loved in this video was to see the way you look to each other. So much love and respect for each other. Thank you for sharing so much. All my love from Quebec.

[@ltrillium1000]

I don't want to read too much into this and I could be wrong but at 6:20 when Madison leaned into Talia was so beautiful.

[@Lonnwriting]

Let's get subscribing ! This is a great and interesting channel.

[@davidschlecht3016]

I would guess that looking back on your ventures of the van life so that you could pit out this video helped to realize that the good and not so good ,made you stronger and wiser and more appreciative of each other and will lead you into a more complete relationship and a stronger bond. Good luck going forward, appreciating each other.

[@MegaCj65]

Gah! You two are so stinkin' adorable. Seeing your genuine respect for each other should be a lesson for every couple, everywhere. Always love your videos!

[@talandmads]

Thank you so much!!! 🫶🏻🫶🏻

[@codym4586]

Thank you for sharing this vulnerable private part of your relationship. It resonates with our being together almost 24/7 since Covid times. We surely learned a lot about ourselves too and became stronger. To have a lasting relationship, one must always nourish it to grow and flourish! Congratulations! we really appreciate and love you both!

[@randyburgess3547]

UNDERSTAND WHEN TO ''COMPERMISE'' IN ANYTHING YOU DO , MOVING FORWARD ..GOOD LUCK

[@shawnl6735]

I found the channel because I had been watching some camping videos and stumbled upon you. It was also because of your videos that I found the van wives and I watch all of you now every Sunday when a new video comes out. I love watching you and wish you all the best with your next adventure.

[@andysolorzano4126]

Still making me smile every Sunday! 😉💙

[@talandmads]

Love it!! Thanks for watching ❤️

[@sgtraveleratheart]

I love you both so much. The respect and administration you show each other is beautiful ❤️

[@VanessaChats]

Thank you. Seriously, thank you! These are the sort of chats I love listening to as they're real, unfiltered and in depth. It allows me to know we are all doing the best we can and are human and there is no perfect etc and so one. You get what I mean? Thank you for being human. Thank you for being real. Thank you for sharing.

[@talandmads]

Hey Vanessa! Thank you so much for your comment. This is exactly why we wanted to share this video. We always want to be authentic with you - because that’s what will bring us all closer together ❤️

[@GaryJones2012]

What a great recap on how your lives have evolved together and some of us have enjoyed you from the start. Now we're looking forward to your new adventures, whether it's the cottage or the floatie home or more travel and, of course, kids. We love you both almost as much as you clearly love each other. 🥰🥰

[@talandmads]

Awe thank you so much Gary!! We are absolutely honoured that you have been here since the beginning. We love you back and are so grateful for your support 🫶🏻

[@stephenkennedy7931]

Dear ladies opposites attract don't let anyone tell you differently. My wife and I have been together for over 45 years after only knowing each other for three days. And we are polar opposites I like whole wheat bread she likes white, I gag over beets she will not eat liver. We have a small argument nearly every day but I can not see myself living without her. God Bless from your Canadian Friend.

[@Meshela0621]

That was a beautiful story!! Relationship aren't easy for sure. My partner and I been together now 10 years. We went through so much to get to this point with blending our families and all the life baggage we both had from our past. Now we are so much stronger for sticking it out and doing it together despite the ups and downs. ❤

[@talandmads]

Awe thank you so much for sharing this with us! So happy to hear you are stronger for sticking it out with your partner and families❤️

[@mikecapps1603]

You ladies are so great at what you do, and who you are every day that it just shows through your videos. Keep on keeping on my friends!

[@ssecor40]

Remember Tal and Mads, you can agree to disagree ❤ Love is growth, pain, and bliss all wrapped in one. You have such sweet souls and complete your family with your generosity with each other and understanding... Keep each other close and remember to love one another no matter what happens, it's all worth it...😊Love you both!

[@barbaratrepka5896]

You girls are so sweet. I hope you both carry and have a baby. There is nothing like it. Cant wait to watch your journey ❤

[@ChristineJuillet-cl9fj]

Don and I really enjoyed watching this video. Billy as you named the van, has been renamed Talisson…we love it and have done some small trips with it and we are preparing our big trip in January to Mexico… it probably knows how to get there by now.😂

[@talandmads]

Oh my goodness Talisson is amazing! Awe we love it so much ❤️ We’re so excited for you to experience Mexico - cheers to many more adventures on the road! Will send some recommendations your way soon ☺️

[@annwelty5812]

You're challenges as a couple are almost exactly the same as mine. I'm Talia-like and my husband is Maddie-like. He's impulsive where I'm a 'let's take a minute and think about it. But, as you two realized, our end goals are the same. So, just because the way you get there is different, doesn't mean you can't make it. We've both learned how to compromise when necessary and rarely have we had to fight about money, which is, as you know, the thing that really breaks relationships. As you both said and we agree wholeheartedly, the end goal is what's important. Funny, my husband always says he's the smart one because he married the banker. We both come up with ideas, but I make it happen financially. If we feel strongly about something, we find a way to make it happen. Of course, with his short attention span, I don't have to do too much wrangling 😁🤭.

[@libbylong9059]

You’ve grown together in love and you’re continuing to grow in love. Thank you for sharing your hearts with us. You are beautiful.❤❤

[@talandmads]

What WONDERFUL words!!! Thank you!!!🥰

[@blazerprophet]

Tal & Mads, I keep subscribed to about a dozen van dwellers at a time. Of all the vids I have seen, your Alaska trip was the best of the best. Watched then a few times each and they had everything.

[@talandmads]

Awe what a great compliment! We LOVED that trip and had such a great time sharing it - so happy you enjoyed ❤️

[@jasonseckt4300]

I’ve been with you guys from the beginning. I remember sending you guys a message saying you will be the next van wives. Love your channel keep up the good work

[@talandmads]

Love that you have been here from the beginning Jason - thank you!!

[@dseaman97]

My wife and I found you through Vanwives!❤

[@pigmeat72]

Being a heterosexual I was looking at two gorgeous females. My wife started watching and the next thing you know, we were both hooked. Now we love you two.

[@csssc8475]

That's so nice ❤

[@jennyellis2062]

Hi tal and mads thanks for sharing your ups and downs of your van life with us, im so happy that your still together after it all and look forward to many more great adventures

[@askmisspatience]

Curious what video found your channel. Scrolled back. Since a few videos into your KZbin launch. Haven’t missed an episode. Appreciate how interactive you’ve been. Demonstrative of the journey helping me plot excursions. Sharing tips and tricks of safe travel. In a Sprinter Van. Inspiring me to consider this type between the three top options for me. Thanks for sharing food to friends and family. Van tips. Being vulnerable and an encouragement to do new things. Like drink a Sourtoe cocktail. One of the bravest feats I’ve ever witnessed. As a veteran and badass feel this is something to aspire to 🙌🏼 Sending prayer vibes for your continued success and safety as a family and KZbin celebrities ❤😊

[@karin3000]

It’s so cool if you guys sharing your journey and what build your strength within your relationship that’s very important. I’ve been with my wife 30+ years and we had a lot of adventures and I agree that that builds character he learned about each other. You have your strength and your weaknesses and your humanness And that builds a great relationship. Congrats.❤❤🎉

[@sulmas6393]

I’ve watched you from the beginning. I saw you and went to your channel and restarted the journey. I was very sad that you sold the van and did think it was glossed over. Thank you for doing this!

[@talandmads]

Love that you have been here since the beginning! So happy you think this video helped to close the van chapter. See you next Sunday ❤️

[@padders1068]

Tal & Mads! Thank you so much for sharing your trials and tribulations, baring your souls, and how they have brought you so much closer. It is so lovely to see the deep love you have for each other. You always make me smile, and this video brought a tear of joy to my eyes! When it's a Tal and Mads video day it's always a good day for me! Much ❤ to you both, and for the joy your videos bring me! 😘😘

[@meganandraski]

Feeing that van build bickering HARD rn😅 convincing ourselves if we can survive this bus build we can survive anything. I love the openness here and you guys ♥️♥️♥️

[@ryanstraus1]

Thanks for putting it together! Thanks for sharing your relationship. It really helps people.

[@talandmads]

We're glad you enjoyed it! Relationship struggles are real, but we're so happy we can share our story with you! Thanks for watching 🫶🏻

[@HoldGiaCarangiCloseToOurHearts]

Thank you vm for putting this together. So interesting. Relationships can really differ by couples. I appreciate you sharing. This episode helped me to get to know you. It's well edited and commented. This also tells me van life industry has so much more to expand and i observe so much potential businesses to profit from. I see many policies to pass to help the industry to grow safely and secure repeated visitors. Traveling through extreme weather needs a guide for van lives. It is not smooth sail. I have 1, 3, 5, 10 year financial, business, family, spiritual, academic goals. So when I travel, it must enforce my voyage to my goals. I sold my sailboat and rv but now that I own land, it would be different. I'll be getting a sailboats and rvs for research and data collection. Probably getting interns. I wish you a delightful transition into your next chapter. As I see it, you are an established couple of an equivalent to 10 years married couples because of your intense van life which is detailed decision making on big and small matters. You invest in communication. Finances, trust, communication, and great intimacy... ingredients for wonderful parenting. Love From San Francisco

[@GregoryMl62]

You had me feel all the feels! I'm so glad I found you through Vanwives. You definitely make me smile.😊

[@talandmads]

So glad you found us also! Thank you ❤️

[@annewinning9723]

I started my 20’s in a van and just revisited travels in a van at 69! Thank you for this, as now I don’t feel so silly in my mini struggles. You three always bring a smile to my face, thanks for sharing. Much ❤

[@cparker7431]

wow! I've contemplated this at age 62......very cool!!!

[@jandavis1362]

It takes a lot to fit yourself into a long-term relationship. You guys have done the hard work. Now, with the world in such turmoil and travel bans limiting where it's good to go. Now would be the time to find and develop your new home base and being that you both are very close to your families. It should be close to them all. Plan away ....

[@cindyLevine-r5e]

I love you girls so much!! BRAVO!! ❤

[@talandmads]

We love you back!! Thank you for being here ❤️

[@Gunapatifamily]

Thank you so much for your vulnerability and talking about the hardships and conversations that need to happen when you think differently as people. It's really important for people to normalize these conversations!!!

[@user-dorthe007]

Hey girls. What a great video. I am so happy, that you came out stronger on the other side. And now you are more in love than ever. It really shows in this video. I love the three of you and you made me smile. Lots of love from Dorthe in Denmark. ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@andylasic7176]

Thank you so much, you both seem to have the knack to cheer up someone even on their worst day ❤

[@delronincable]

Thanks!

[@DavidDix-k6z]

Bowie don't ruin this for me. Spoken like a true parent😂

[@lauriereeb3850]

Combining the I/me with the us/we. Worth the effort

[@colleenbalch328]

Such sweet and bittersweet experiences. There will be more adventures ahead and on to what's next.

[@talandmads]

Exactly! Thanks for being here Colleen 🫶🏻

[@marleneboyd7754]

You Two are amazing. So happy to see you beautiful and real.

[@tomas5376]

Having followed you from the beginning it’s easy to see how traveling/living in close proximity in a van could present interesting challenges. By selling the van and planning your next move can be fun or occasionally stressful. I call it cut and run! I don’t live in the future, but I know , unless I’m dead, the next day will be different. Buena Suerte ❤️

[@annetteschwarz2118]

I will be in with you for the long haul!!! Love you both, your realness and honesty! Thank you both, hugs to Bowie ❤❤❤

[@starrweils]

Thank you for sharing your story, your vulnerabilities, dreams and beginings....beautiful journey. ❤ i appreciate the...real story... these are the things that do make or break us. I'm so glad that it made you and that you can look at these things now with humor and share the stories! 😊 And yes, thanks for going back to the story and explaining re the sale of the van/home. So, best of wishes for your new beginings! Cheers! ❤ you two are beautiful.

[@theroving1]

Happy to say We've been here since the beginning of your KZbin journey....and yes, You made us smile....a LOT!!!! 😁😁😁😁😁

[@edwardleecaliforniausa]

Good morning all happy Sunday morning to all of you guys and I enjoy your channel and you all amazing supporter

[@sarameitner6770]

Wow. Although I fully accepted how you told us about selling your van in the first place (it IS your channel), I sincerely found your in-depth conversation - and sharing how the experience has affected you - a touchingly honest statement of that part of your lives together. You wove the thread through ups and downs, highs and lows - and solidified the fact that you want to be together. Go you! All the best to this next phase of your journey.

[@talandmads]

Thank you so much for your kind words and for watching our videos! See you next week ❤️

[@melissam874]

I love you two so very much and this video just made me fall even more. You both are legitimately a perfect compliment for the other. Seeing the way you look at each other you can feel the love coming all the way through the screen. Great video Ladies. XO

[@daronmarkley826]

You guys are the sweetest couple ever and it’s such a pleasure to be able to hang out with you, now I must say it was such a treat to relive your past adventures and boy what great adventures they were but I must be perfectly honest with you a part of me is sad that you sold your van and there won’t be those adventures anymore but at the same time I’m happy for you guys for the next chapter in your lives and I so look forward to what new adventures lie ahead and I know they will be one heck of a good time peace ☮️ out ✌️

[@talandmads]

Thank you so much!! We are also sad to say goodbye to the van, but we know it will make way for something new :) so grateful to have you here with us!

[@sharonalexa]

Practice makes perfect! You two do it so well! I had to wear sunglasses for the vid because the diamonds were blinding! lol. Thx for the raw video! ♥️🤍

[@christinecleaveland3702]

Thank you for sharing your lives with all of us. I love you both for what you have done by sharing you adventures with us.

[@khillikialea]

Love the deep dive, truly appreciate it. It definitely was a great choice todo, Thank you. Much love you both.

[@rnadey]

Thanks for the memories from beginning of your journeys. I myself subscribe to your channel when you two met Jaz and Crystal watching their channel and showing the two of you. Immediately subscribe it's been a very fun and enjoyable watching all the fun times and rough times. You are both so strong and the love for each other shows. Love you both always. Dedicated subscriber.❤❤❤❤

[@talandmads]

Thank you so much for your continued support!! ❤️❤️

[@shelleymalone4427]

Yes, you made me smile. Just keep living your best lives together.

[@talandmads]

That’s the plan! Thanks for watching 🫶🏻 so happy we made you smile!

[@marilynyurchick2514]

You two are absolutely beautiful! Great video!❤

[@talandmads]

Thank you so much Marilyn!

[@Rayaelle]

Thanks for storytime and being truthful, that was awesome =)

[@talandmads]

Thanks for watching!! :)

[@johncena11475]

@@talandmadswhy does every van woman have dogs

[@cparker7431]

If you watch The Bucket List Family, The Gee's, travels from the beginning with their children, youll be inspired to take your future kids on adventures!!

[@tonyamarshall997]

Great story ❤❤❤❤

[@rogermace4516]

You are both lovely, thank you for sharing so much of your personal life and yes you made me smile

[@talandmads]

Thank you for watching and for your kind words ❤️❤️❤️

[@bethlef5168]

Ready for the next adventure

[@talandmads]

Us too!! It’s happening soon!

[@dorothycooper1027]

You gals r just amazing. I enjoy your videos, every one of them...u r so talented w the photography & so brave in your adventures. So glad u found one another....a beautiful couple!

[@JohnStevenson-bm2no]

You two ROCK! Love your videos.😘❤👩‍❤‍👩

[@talandmads]

Awe! You rock! Thanks for watching!!

[@caroltrombley2838]

Thanks for sharing more about yourselves and your vanlife journey. I was thrilled when i came across your channel. Back then i was looking for vanlifers but your personalities just drew me in and i always look forward to seeing you three. Can't forget Bowie.😊 you always make me smile too 😊 until next time. Thank you for a lovely video. ❤😊

[@michaeldam7446]

Your are so good together, thanks for your life refleksion Update. I were sad to here about your experience with Bovie and that dog😢❤

[@Junolu1]

You’re such a magical team, that only great things will come along for you to nurture your relationship and yourselves, all together. Thanks for sharing your lessons. It’s hopeful to see your adventures, by remaining being a great team. Big hugs!

[@amorl4520]

Great video.

[@truestory923]

This video was your very best! I connected so much. Thank you for sharing these parts of your lives. While listening I did so much reflecting and at points, admittedly, I was super happy for your relationship growth and you both, but also wishing that I could find someone in my life like you have. This will be something that I'm looking for. I wonder if you guys could do more videos like this to help people like myself who WANT the kind of relationship you have but haven't found anyone that matches. Well, except my dogs 😉

[@jimmypinch]

Awww what a great movie. Schools bus conversion 🚐 yEs! I've followed this channel since Mads was on Tiny homes. This has remained a proper pro channel with interesting stories and beautiful footage and edit. JIMMY PINCH X

[@issieanderson2083]

So sad about the dog incident. Live and learn from it. Top tip. Don’t scream during a dog attack. It tends to set the dogs off even more. Easier said than done. Sadly both of my dogs have been attacked and I have witnesses several other dog attacks too.

[@SledgeHammer-vw6rf]

Thanks for another great video! I have been watching since Jazz & Crystal introduced you. Your videos always make me smile!

[@dawndetelj2684]

What a wonderful video🥰

[@DaleRude-ur9ns]

Thanks so much for sharing your inner thoughts on your prior “chapters”…I, for one, look forward to your sharing your next “adventure(s)”…IAG, eh!!! 🇨🇦

[@kathyanderson1509]

Hi ladies 😊 loved the video, thank for sharing , ❤

[@thesamimartin]

Good Morning!! What a great video!!! Thank you for opening up and sharing! My partner and I are so incredibly different! I'm the dreamer! She is also a nurse! Traveler in the US! Relationships are tough! You always leave me smiling!!! Thanks

[@talandmads]

Thanks for sharing with us Sam! Sounds like we have a lot in common

[@ianlove3]

Thank you for sharing. Take care and stay safe.

[@craigtoups5786]

i smiled. great episode and opening up. you go girls.

[@talandmads]

So happy you liked it!! Thank you ❤️

[@marybethfields1166]

Oh, beauties, this video made me cry. I am so glad your fur baby is ok. You two are so amazing. I can't wait to see what the future holds for both of ya. Love ya from my pack to yours.❤❤❤❤

[@talandmads]

Thank you!! We’re so excited for the future also ❤️ grateful for your kind words and support

[@lauridykstra8684]

Loved the video!😊

[@jillmcnutt7985]

You definitely did it justice. ❤

[@talandmads]

Thank you Jill 🫶🏻

[@mikepowell9572]

dreamers need an anchor and logical people need wings you both complete each other. I see tal thinking thru things now and mads saying fuck it lets do it lol. You make each other grow, you make each other better, that's a perfect relationship in my opinion. you two will grow stronger together that's love. its been a true pleasure watching you grow up🙂

[@dcw626364]

Great video. I love you two. A school bus would be great with what you can do with the inside of it. However, make sure to you check with a lot of people who camp with one. A lot of places will not let you park it there. If you drive a school bus long distance the cost of fuel will be in the thousands.

[@RuebenNomura]

Morning from Hawaii that was a good behind the scene on your test relationship

[@jmcdonald16]

I love your love.💗

[@brandyyellow]

good job

[@nicse75]

DOUBLE THE GARLIC!!! MERCH COMMING SOON ?! :))) ❣ LOVE 🙏🍀

[@talandmads]

You’re an MVP for catching that!!! Would love to make some merch!

[@nicse75]

@@talandmads 😘 IT MAY NOT YET, ON A SHIRT, BUT ITS ALWAYS IN OUR HEARTS 🧄;)

[@carolinejames8897]

I have watched from the beginning .I am your Biggest Fan xxx

[@dominikbenz8349]

amazing vidoe i enjoy dreamtema pretty stunning queens love your vidoes

[@marche49]

Thank you so much for sharing this personal experience, good luck in your next chapter! Looking forward to seeing you next time ❤

[@talandmads]

Thank you so much for watching! See you Sunday!