Creative travel with camper vans, remote working digital nomads, and unique accommodations

Blue D.

I spent summers with my grandparents in Puerto Rico, but left much of the island unexplored. When my retired parents took me on structured tours abroad, I was the youngest. Our road trips didn’t offer much freedom. I was just along for the ride. My daughter’s dad's parents took us on many Disney Vacation Club stays. I love the parks, but I wanted to see more. When I planned it was more of a solo mission—stressful logistics leading to less fun for all. I loved our trip from Florida to California and back in 16 days—sleeping in our Chrysler Pacifica minivan River. We ordered a Storyteller Overland camper van for more adventures, but Serenity became my rolling home when munchkin’s dad asked for a divorce and space. When my best friend moved in, I found my adventure companion. We planned together and made some of my best memories ever. Now, I'm renting a sticks and bricks because munchkin doesn't want to stay in Serenity with me. So Serenity sits until I can set off on more adventures.

Navigating depression while living at home in your 20s

Brianna E.

I’m in my 20s, living at home while I work on my graduate degree online. It hasn’t always been easy—especially managing depression and anxiety in a household that sometimes lacks emotional understanding. I’ve struggled with feeling lonely, unappreciated, and misunderstood, particularly with family members who show narcissistic tendencies. I’ve also had to balance chronic health conditions and ADHD, which can make even basic tasks feel overwhelming. I used to be more socially active, but over time I’ve learned that low-maintenance friendships and solo travel once a year work best for my energy. I’ve stopped drinking for health reasons, which made me feel more in control but also a little left out at times. Journaling, music therapy, and meditation have become essential tools in my healing. Therapy and medication helped too, but so did learning to truly be on my own side. Living at home as a young adult with mental health struggles can feel like being stuck—but I’ve found ways to move forward, even from within the same walls. If that sounds like what you're going through, I’d love to talk.

Using drugs to cope with trauma and choosing sobriety

Ethan F.

My journey has been anything but easy. I’ve faced many challenges, including substance use struggles, primarily with heroin, and have been diagnosed with autism, depression, and anxiety. My life was marked by homelessness, incarceration, and trauma, including sexual abuse by my stepbrother and an abusive father. My mother struggled with her own mental health challenges, and I grew up in a cult that shaped much of my early experiences. Recovery has been a long road, and I know firsthand that it comes in different forms for everyone. I’m here to offer my support and understanding. I’ve been through a lot—surviving suicide attempts, mental health challenges, and navigating my identity as a queer trans Indigenous man—and I’ve found hope again. I believe in the power of sharing stories and connecting with others on a real, raw, and honest level. I’m not a therapist, but I’m someone who can relate, listen, and guide you through the process of finding your authentic self.

Quitting alcohol, opioids, and heroin cold turkey to rebuild your life

Heather W.

In my late 20s, I found myself in a vicious cycle of addiction. My parents were both alcoholics, and I grew up thinking substance abuse was normal. By 2008, I was using anything I could get my hands on: alcohol, prescription opioids, heroin, benzodiazepines,; each one trying to numb the pain of depression and anxiety that had taken hold of me. It wasn’t just occasional; it was every day. I had lost control over my body, mind, and life. I could see it affecting my work, my relationships, and my health, but I didn’t know how to stop. In December 2009, after hitting rock bottom, I decided to quit everything. I didn't go to rehab or use medication. I chose to quit cold turkey on my own. The first few days were unbearable withdrawal from alcohol alone felt like a nightmare, with severe shakes, sweating, and hallucinations. But the opioid withdrawal was even worse: intense muscle aches, nausea, chills, and an overwhelming sense of despair. I also went through benzodiazepine withdrawal, which left me feeling like I was in a constant state of panic and anxiety. It felt like my body was betraying me. But I was determined. I moved 10 hours away to Nevada to escape the people and places that kept me stuck in my addiction. I had to start completely over. I immersed myself in routine cooking healthy meals, walking every day, and listening to music that grounded me. Slowly, I started to feel like myself again. It wasn’t easy, but every small victory kept me going. I’ve stayed sober ever since and have since become a certified peer supporter. I now help others who are in the same place I once was, offering the support I wish I had back then.

Surviving homelessness and rebuilding your life from the ground up

Holley B.

There was a time when I had no home — no safe place to sleep, no privacy, and no idea how I was going to survive another day. Homelessness stripped me of everything I thought defined me. It left me exposed, judged, and emotionally wrecked. What most people don’t understand is that homelessness isn’t just about losing a roof over your head — it’s about the crushing weight of invisibility, the constant danger, the trauma of not knowing where you belong. For me, it came after years of abuse, addiction, and heartbreak. And it was one of the most humbling, terrifying seasons of my life. But it was also the beginning of a rebuilding I never thought possible. I clawed my way back — through recovery, healing, faith, and sheer grit. I rebuilt my life brick by brick, not just externally, but internally. Today, I carry the strength of someone who’s been at the bottom and made her way home — to herself. If you’re in that place now — or trying to heal from what you survived — I want to talk with you. I see you. I believe in your ability to rise.

Navigating relationship challenges after moving in together

James S.

About eight years ago, I moved in with my partner after a few years of dating, and while we were excited, it didn’t take long for new tensions to emerge. Simple things like chores, schedules, and unspoken expectations quickly turned into major arguments that neither of us saw coming. At one point, it felt like we were constantly fighting about things that should have been easy. Over time, we realized we needed clearer communication and shared agreements to make things work. We sat down, divided responsibilities based on what we each preferred or handled best, and created a system where we could ask for help without resentment building up. It wasn’t perfect overnight, but slowly we built trust and understanding in new ways. Working through those moments made our relationship stronger, and I'm passionate about helping others feel less alone when facing similar transitions. Moving in together can be beautiful—and messy—and it’s okay to need help along the way.

Getting back up after drug addiction knocks you down

Jennifer C.

I’ve been sober for over 15 years now, and my journey to recovery was anything but easy. After becoming a single mom and facing the overwhelming pressures of life, I turned to drugs to cope. I was lost in my addiction, using pills excessively, and eventually hit rock bottom—homeless, broken, and without a family. After multiple stints in rehab, jail, and the 12-step program through AA, I finally found a way out. My spirituality, the support of my family, and counseling were key to turning my life around. Today, I’m engaged, have a strong relationship with my 16-year-old son, and live a life full of purpose and gratitude. I know what it’s like to feel lost, but I can tell you that recovery is possible. I’m here to offer hope, support, and guidance on your journey.

Finding recovery after hitting rock bottom

Kadyn S.

I began drinking heavily while I was still in high school, trying to cope with an intense and unstable childhood. When I was kicked out as a minor for being queer, my drinking escalated even further. I spent around seven years experiencing homelessness, with alcohol and drugs becoming my constant companions. Eventually, substance use consumed my life completely, and I reached a point where I couldn’t go a single day without it. After several close calls with death, I entered treatment. Since leaving treatment in 2017, I’ve worked mindfully every day to maintain my recovery. It hasn’t been a straight line, but finding authentic connections, getting support, and learning to be honest with myself has been transformational. I’m here to offer support and understanding to anyone who feels like they’re starting over after everything has fallen apart.

Navigating single motherhood and custody battles

Linzi J.

Becoming a single mom wasn’t something I planned, and nothing really prepares you for the weight of it—especially when you’re also fighting for custody. For four years, I was in and out of court, constantly trying to keep it together for my daughter while dealing with the stress and uncertainty of not knowing what would happen next. At the same time, I had just moved to a new city where I didn’t know anyone, and everything felt unfamiliar. I had to rebuild my life from the ground up, without a support system close by. It was hard, really hard. I leaned on therapy, phone calls with family, and my faith to get through it. Some days I was just surviving. But over time, things shifted. I was granted full custody, and my daughter and I started counseling together. I slowly started making connections and building community in my new city. I’ve learned how to be both soft and strong, how to listen to myself and to my child, and how to ask for help without shame.

Relationship challenges and fostering understanding

Loretta H.

At 19, I moved in with my girlfriend, even though it wasn’t the best situation for me. Despite the challenges we faced, I remained calm and focused on showing empathy and understanding. I took the time to listen to her side and offered advice whenever I could, always trying to keep the peace and make the situation better. My journey has led me to work in peer support, where I have continued to use these skills to help others navigate difficult situations. In my role at a community service board, I’ve visited homes to counsel individuals, offering them a listening ear and guidance through their struggles. Through all of this, I’ve learned how important it is to approach tough situations with empathy and a willingness to understand the other person’s perspective. Now, I’m here to offer the same support to others who are facing challenges in their relationships, whether they’re navigating difficult living situations, co-parenting, or trying to heal from past struggles.

Finding peace and contentment through God

Mason I.

I’ve been through a lot in my life—substance use, legal troubles, and homelessness—before experiencing a full recovery and spiritual awakening. My journey taught me the value of self-reflection, the importance of healthy relationships, and the power of faith. After years of working in addiction treatment, I’ve learned how crucial it is to understand attachment styles, healthy communication, and self-love. For years, I struggled in toxic relationships, but in my early 30s, I began learning about codependency and attachment styles, which has transformed the way I relate to others. My close relationship with God has been central to my healing, and I believe that the love I receive from Him forms the foundation for building healthy, fulfilling relationships. I truly believe that healing and growth are possible for everyone, no matter their past. I’m here to share my experiences, tools, and encouragement to help others walk their own path to recovery and healthy relationships.

Embracing recovery while overcoming stigma and fear

Meagan K.

When I started using opioids at 16, I didn’t realize where it would lead me. By 18, it was heroin and alcohol—substances that served as a way to escape the pain I couldn’t face. It wasn’t until my eighth rehab that something clicked in February 2012, and I found lasting sobriety. But sobriety wasn’t the only battle. Along the way, I dealt with homelessness, domestic violence, and the feeling of being stuck in a cycle of failure. Still, I kept pushing forward because I knew I had something to live for—my kids, my future, and the possibility of helping others. Recovery isn’t just about stopping the use of substances; it’s about learning to live again. One of the hardest parts was dealing with the stigma and fear of asking for help, even after I knew I needed it. Whether it was walking someone into a harm reduction center so they wouldn’t feel uncomfortable or overcoming my own shame about seeking support, it was clear that facing these fears was a huge part of my healing process. Now, I focus on helping others navigate that fear—whether it's the fear of asking for help or the fear of what others think. There’s so much power in vulnerability, and I want to help you find that strength too.

Rebuilding your life after addiction, homelessness, and loss

Michael P.

I’m a Veteran and a father who spent years living with active addiction, lost everything, and found my way back through recovery. For two decades, I struggled with alcohol and substance use—trying to hold my family together while my own life felt increasingly out of control. Eventually, I lost my marriage, my children, and my home. I ended up a homeless Veteran, unsure how to move forward. The turning point came when a man from the VA connected me with Mental Health Services and helped me understand that I had a Substance Use Disorder. That diagnosis—and the acceptance that came with it—gave me the foundation to heal. Through the VA, therapy, 12-step programs, and peer support, I’ve spent the last 15+ years rebuilding my life. Today, I work to help others find the same hope, clarity, and strength to move forward. Whether you’re just starting your recovery journey or feeling stuck somewhere along the way, I'm here to walk alongside you.

Rebuilding your community after a big life change

Nikki S.

After college, I moved to Chicago with my best friend to start fresh. It was an exciting new chapter, but also a daunting one. I didn’t have a built-in support system and had to rebuild my community from scratch—new job, new friends, new everything. It wasn’t easy, especially since my friendships from college weren’t as supportive as I had hoped. I learned the hard way that creating a strong social circle takes intention and effort, but it was worth it. Fast forward to becoming a mom in 2024, and once again, I was faced with the challenge of rebuilding my community, but this time, as a parent. I had to find other moms to connect with, navigate the challenges of new parenthood, and still maintain my friendships. Through these transitions, I realized that it’s not about having a large number of relationships, but having quality connections that support you through life’s changes. If you’re feeling lost or overwhelmed in your own transition, whether it’s moving to a new city or becoming a new parent, I’d love to share my journey and help guide you through the process of finding your people and building the support system you deserve.

Building back as a parent after housing instability

Nydia D.

There was a time in my life when I didn’t have a stable place to call home. I know what it’s like to feel the weight of responsibility as a parent while facing housing insecurity, financial stress, and impossible choices. At one point, I opened my own home to two other single moms, one of whom had been living in her car with her toddler. We were all working the same job, trying to save money and build something better for our kids. It wasn’t always easy. We had our disagreements, but we’d sit down, cry it out, and remind each other we were a team. For a while, we created a little village under one roof, and I’ll never forget how powerful that felt. Before that, I had to make sacrifices, including being away from my kids for days at a time so I could work and keep going. It wasn’t perfect, but it was progress. I’ve learned how to survive with limited resources, how to rebuild when others doubted me, and how to stay grounded in my purpose through it all. If you’re in a tough spot or starting over, I’d love to talk with you about what’s possible—and remind you that you’re not alone.

What helped me stop using heroin, alcohol, and everything in between

Sammy D.

I grew up feeling like I didn’t belong—not even in my own family. The first time I got high, I finally felt whole. From then on, drugs and alcohol became my solution. They worked… until they didn’t. I chased relief with every substance I could find, but nothing could fill the loneliness anymore. Things spiraled to court-ordered treatment, homelessness, and feeling broken beyond repair. I thought my only options were to stay miserable with substances or be miserable without them. But then I met someone in recovery who didn’t just stop using—they were happy. That gave me hope. I finally learned the truth about the disease of addiction and how it hijacks the brain. With the help of the 12-step program, community, and a higher power, I began to heal. Since 2008 (with one short relapse in 2016), I’ve been walking this path and supporting others to do the same. If you're struggling and feeling hopeless, I promise—there is a solution, and you don’t have to face it alone.

Healing after domestic violence, rebuilding after homelessness, and finding your community

Shania B.

Hi, I’m someone who believes deeply in the power of community and second chances. I’m polyamorous and currently in a relationship, and I’m working toward earning my Peer Recovery Specialist certification so I can continue helping others on their mental health journeys. I’ve been through some tough experiences, including domestic violence and periods of homelessness. For a while, I isolated myself, but reaching out for support changed everything. Through therapy and peer support groups, I was able to shift my mindset, heal from trauma, and rebuild my life with community at the center. Today, I’m passionate about providing a safe, nonjudgmental space for others who are navigating loneliness, relationship challenges, or recovery from trauma. Healing isn’t linear, but having someone walk alongside you can make all the difference—and I’m honored to be that person for anyone who needs it.

Leaving an abusive relationship and starting over somewhere new

Yolanda W.

I stayed longer than I should have in an abusive relationship because my sense of stability was completely tied to him - at first. I had four children, but none of them his, thankfully! I didn't have family support. I kept telling myself that it couldn't possibly be as bad as I thought, and if we just had one more good day, maybe it would stick. But deep down, I knew that wasn’t love. I knew better! I'd watched my mom endure a 15-years-long abusive marriage; I wasn't her... The turning point came when I asked myself who I loved more—him, or my kids. I wanted better for them. I didn’t want them growing up thinking abuse was normal. So I left. I moved us to a completely new city where I didn’t know anyone. It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. But little by little, I rebuilt. I got honest about my pain. I know the violence of that last night left an indelible mark on my children's psyche, so I leaned on therapy, my faith, and the fire I still had inside. Now, I help others who are stuck in that same fear—because I know firsthand that starting over is scary, but staying in harm’s way is scarier.