EP 28: Revolution on Wheels: DIY Nomads Shirley and AW Share the Realities of Skoolie Living
Have you ever dreamed of hitting the open road, living life on your own terms, and embracing a lifestyle of freedom and simplicity? Shirley and AW did just that, transforming a 30-foot school bus, Miss Daisy, into a cozy, mobile home. In this episode of Revolution on Wheels, we dive into their inspiring story of turning a dream into reality, even without construction experience.
What Is a Skoolie and Why Choose It?
A Skoolie is a converted school bus turned into a functional living space—a growing trend among DIY enthusiasts and tiny living advocates. Shirley and AW decided to join this movement for the freedom it offers. Unlike traditional housing, a Skoolie provides mobility, lower costs, and a chance to live more sustainably.
For Shirley and AW, avoiding a traditional mortgage and embracing the opportunity to travel were significant motivations. They wanted a life less ordinary, and a Skoolie offered just that—a home and a vehicle rolled into one.
No Experience? No Problem!
One of the most remarkable aspects of Shirley and AW's journey is their lack of construction experience. Neither had built anything of this scale before. So, how did they do it?
The answer lies in one word: YouTube. They relied on tutorial videos to guide them step by step. Shirley explained, "It’s like having a thousand teachers at your fingertips." From framing walls to installing plumbing, their determination and the wealth of online knowledge helped them navigate the project.
But the road wasn’t always smooth. They had to balance building Miss Daisy with their jobs to avoid burnout. Their advice? Keep the long-term vision in mind. “It’s not about getting it done quickly but doing it well,” AW shared.
The Tiny Living Community
One unexpected but heartwarming aspect of their journey was the support they found within the tiny living community. Fellow Skoolie owners, DIYers, and enthusiasts offered advice, encouragement, and even hands-on help.
Shirley and AW emphasized how this community became a source of strength. “You’re never really alone in this lifestyle. People are willing to share their experiences and lessons learned,” Shirley said.
Lessons and Insights From the Journey
Shirley and AW’s story is packed with lessons for anyone considering tiny living. First, they wish more young people knew they don’t have to follow the traditional path of big homes and bigger debts. “The biggest thing holding people back is fear,” AW observed.
They also highlighted the value of time freedom—a concept often overshadowed in modern life. By reducing financial burdens, they gained more control over their days, spending time on what truly matters: exploring new places, deepening relationships, and pursuing their passions.
Conclusion
Shirley and AW’s journey proves that you don’t need to be a professional builder or have a hefty budget to embrace the tiny living lifestyle. What you need is determination, a willingness to learn, and the courage to step outside the norm.
Their story is a testament to the rewards of living simply and sustainably, and it serves as a powerful reminder that dreams are achievable with the right mindset. So, are you ready to embrace the road less traveled?
Resources mentioned
Laura Lynch: LinkedIn
Quotes from the episode
“You don't have to live the American dream where you have a big house and you fill it up with stuff you don’t need.” - AW
“On a tombstone, you have the year you were born and the year you died. The dash in the middle is your life and that is what’s important. You only get one life, so make it a good one.” - Shirley
“Live every day to the fullest. Do what you want to do, find your passion and do it.” - AW
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