EP 119: From Homeowner to Nomad Life: A Transformation Story

Sep 4

Written By Laura Lynch, CFP® ABFP™ AAMS® CDFA®

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On this episode of the Less House More Moola podcast, host Laura Lynch, CFP®, welcomed Mel Klein to discuss her journey into full-time nomadic living. Mel, known for her work on Tiny Home Tours, shared insights into her unconventional lifestyle, the motivations behind her career transition, and practical advice for aspiring digital nomads.

From Traditional Home to Wheels: The Evolution of Nomadic Living

Mel and her partner Abe embarked on their nomadic adventure five years ago, a significant shift from their previous life in a 900-square-foot home in Michigan. This journey wasn't a sudden leap but a gradual progression, starting with two vans and culminating in their current "green expedition truck." Mel highlights the continuous evolution of their living situation, emphasizing how each vehicle served as a stepping stone, built upon with their own "sweat equity" to better suit their evolving needs and priorities.

A key takeaway from Mel’s experience is the intentionality that comes with living tiny. In 120 square feet, every item and every space must serve multiple purposes, fostering a mindful approach to consumption and organization. This contrasts sharply with larger homes where space is often filled indiscriminately. The shift also freed up time previously spent on traditional home maintenance, like mowing a lawn, allowing them to redirect that time towards pursuits that align with their happiness.

The Catalyst for Change: Prioritizing Time and Freedom

The decision to embrace a nomadic lifestyle was deeply personal for Mel and Abe. It stemmed from a realization that their traditional careers and home life in Michigan were creating a disconnect. Mel recounts a period where their schedules were so misaligned they barely saw each other, even living in the same house. This profound lack of shared time, exacerbated by Abe’s demanding job, became a significant catalyst.

The 2020 job layoffs further solidified their resolve to seek an alternative path. Having previously fostered seven children over four years, they felt like "empty nesters" who had "checked all the boxes of what you normally do for the American lifestyle traditionally." This prompted a crucial evaluation of their next steps, leading them to question societal norms and pursue a life defined by their own values, not external expectations.

Navigating Career Pivots in the Digital Nomad Landscape

Mel’s career transition, in particular, was a "circle back around" to her passion. With a background in video production and a lifelong love for cameras, she returned to her roots in multimedia, editing, and social media. For Abe, the pivot was more significant, moving from a law office to UPS delivery, and then into the multimedia space alongside Mel. Their combined skills now enable them to thrive in roles that support their mobile lifestyle.

The podcast emphasizes the burgeoning opportunities for remote work and how the digital age has diversified career paths far beyond traditional office jobs. Mel shares examples of various remote professions, from customer service to short-term project-based work that allows for periods of travel. She encourages listeners to actively explore options like "work camping" jobs and, crucially, to simply "ask your employer" about remote work possibilities, as companies are often willing to accommodate valuable employees. This highlights the growing flexibility in the modern workforce, enabling individuals to design careers that align with their desire for travel and freedom.

Practical Advice for Aspiring Nomads: Just Start and Be Intentional

Mel’s overarching advice for those considering a nomadic lifestyle is straightforward: "Just start." She stresses that perfection is not a prerequisite, and that building towards a dream is a gradual process involving small, consistent steps. This means being intentional with both space and time. Mel, for example, used her lunch breaks at the bank to research and plan her transition, demonstrating that even small pockets of time can be leveraged effectively.

Financial considerations are also a key part of the conversation. Mel explains that while smart financial planning is essential (like having an emergency fund, which proved crucial when their van's engine blew just five days into their journey), aspiring nomads don't necessarily need to replicate their previous income. Expenses on the road can be significantly lower than traditional homeownership costs, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle with less income, provided one makes "a little more than you spend."

Looking ahead, Mel and Abe are embracing the present, enjoying the life they've built, and continuously learning and growing in their filmmaking pursuits. Their story is a powerful testament to the fulfillment that comes from intentional living and the pursuit of a life aligned with personal values.

You can follow their adventures and filmmaking on social media at @AbeandMel.