Welcome back, Pathfinders! Today, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Kevin and Taylor Mathers from Mathers on the Map. Their story is nothing short of inspiring – a tale of wanderlust turned lifestyle. Once they dipped their toes into the world of travel, they were hooked, and they took actionable steps to turn full-time travel into their reality.
While their journey takes many forms, van life remains their favorite mode of exploration. For Kevin and Taylor, it's not just about the destination; it's about the journey, and nothing encapsulates this better than life on the road.
From a Long-Distance Relationship to Travel Hacking
Their journey began with a long-distance relationship that prompted them to seek out ways to save money on travel. Enter travel hacking – a game-changer that allowed them to snag $20,000 plane tickets for a mere $100, thanks to credit card bonuses and strategic spending. This savvy approach to travel has saved them over $100,000 over the years, making globe-trotting more accessible than ever.
Escaping the Rat Race: From Corporate Careers to Mathers On The Map
The conventional nine-to-five grind wasn't cutting it for Kevin. While on the path to becoming a corporate IT VP, a glimpse into the world of Instagram opened his eyes to a new realm of possibilities. Inspired by those making a living through social media, Kevin dove headfirst into entrepreneurship, trading endless hours at the office for a more flexible and fulfilling lifestyle. Today, they've transitioned from side hustles to full-time YouTubers, proving that with dedication and ingenuity, anyone can craft their dream career.
Benefits Beyond the Rat Race
Leaving behind the security of a traditional job can be daunting, especially when faced with the allure of benefits and pensions. However, Kevin and Taylor stress the importance of evaluating these perks critically. Not all benefits are created equal, and understanding what you truly need versus what you're sacrificing is essential before taking the leap into full-time entrepreneurship.
It Started With a Road Trip From Coast to Coast
Before they were Mathers on the Map, a seven-day road trip across the US for a work relocation marked the beginning of their adventure. From the Grand Canyon to Elvis's House, each stop fueled their passion for exploration. This journey kickstarted their travel goals, ultimately inspiring them to aim for 30 countries before turning 30.
Nursing Per Diem: Balancing Work and Wanderlust
Taylor's career as a travel nurse provided the perfect balance between work and travel. With flexible contracts and ample time off, she was able to explore various destinations while still pursuing her passion for nursing. Transitioning to per diem nursing allowed even more freedom, aligning perfectly with their nomadic lifestyle.
House Hacking: Building Wealth Through Real Estate
Their duplex was a game-changer, allowing them to offset their mortgage while building wealth through real estate. Inspired by the concept of house hacking, they transformed their living situation into a profitable investment. By leveraging Airbnb and long-term rentals, they've created a sustainable source of income that allows them to travel.
The 30 Under 30 Challenge: Chasing Adventures Around the Globe
From Costa Rica to Bali, Mathers on the Map embarked on a mission to explore 30 countries before hitting the big 3-0. Breaking free from the conventional vacation mold, they embraced backpacking and gap years, opening themselves up to a world of adventure and cultural immersion.
Van Builds: Crafting the Perfect Home on Wheels
Two van builds later and they've perfected their mobile abode. From climate control for their baby to a custom crib, each upgrade reflects their evolving needs and priorities. By prioritizing functionality over luxury, they've created a cozy haven on wheels that accommodates their growing family.
Current Challenges and Memorable Moments
Balancing home life with their nomadic lifestyle poses its challenges, but the memories they've created along the way make it all worthwhile. From impromptu house tours in the Philippines to slowing down to savor moments with their son, Wyatt, every experience enriches their journey and strengthens their bond as a family.
In the end, Mathers on the Map isn't just about the places they've been; it's about the people they've met, the lessons they've learned, and the memories they've made along the way. As they continue to chart their course through life, one thing remains certain – the adventure never ends for this inspiring duo.
Final Five
1 Thing You NEED While Traveling:
· A No international fees ATM card and Credit Card
1 Thing You Learned You DON’T Need:
· Half as many clothes
1 Question:
· What is your favorite destination?
· How much do you make on YouTube?
1 Thing to Start:
· Start a side hustle
· Look into travel hacking.
YouTube Channels
· Kara and Nate
· The Van Wives
· Flying the Nest
Travel Tips
· Baja
Chapters
· 00:00 Introduction
· 03:30 Travel Hacking
· 07:45 Exiting the Rat Race
· 12:15 What Are Your Benefits?
· 14:15 It Started with a Road Trip
· 18:00 Nursing Per Diem vs. Travel Nursing
· 21:45 House Hacking
· 26:45 Delicioats
· 27:30 Commitments of Owning Real Estate
· 30:15 30 Under 30
· 41:45 Van Builds
· 47:00 Mistakes and Embarrassing Story
· 48:30 Current Travel Frustrations
· 49:45 What Do You Love Most About Your Travel Lifestyle?
· 55:00 Coolest Travel Experience
· 57:15 Final Five
Mathers on the Map Online
· YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MathersOnTheMap
· Website: https://www.mathersonthemap.com/
· Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mathersonthemap
· Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mathersonthemap
· Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MathersOnTheMap/
Links
· Real Estate
· BiggerPockets: https://www.biggerpockets.com/
· Rich Dad Poor Dad: https://amzn.to/3QAxyoz
· The Book on Rental Property Investing: https://amzn.to/3UySFsJ
· (Commissions earned through purchases on this page)
· Ultimate House Hack Blog: https://atravelpath.com/become-the-ultimate-house-hacker-by-buying-an-rv/
Past Episodes
· Laura and Jason: https://atravelpath.com/road-trip-with-kids/
· The Miles Van Life: https://atravelpath.com/show18/
· HappilyEverHanks: https://atravelpath.com/happily-ever-hanks/
· Koda and Court: https://atravelpath.com/travel-nursing/
Mathers On The Map Content
· Van Build Series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfHkUGUkCAgw1D-RgEz262fOdf3RjNad8
· Their Van Build Series 2.0: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfHkUGUkCAgzxf-EkF3-0foL8WLZecptt
· Van Life with a Baby: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLmsySs2e7M&t=1276s
Products
· Ogo Composting Toilet: https://amzn.to/3Wx3aPU
Travel Hacking
· Charles Schwab No International Fees Debit Card: https://www.schwab.com/checking
· The Points Guy: https://thepointsguy.com/
Delicioats
https://delicioats.com/discount/PATH Use Code PATH
Music
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/abbynoise/rocky-mountains
Disclaimer
*All content from atravelpath.com, including but not limited to The Travel Path Podcast and social media platforms, is designed to share general information. We are not experts and the information is not designed to serve as legal, financial, or tax advice. Always do your own research and due diligence before making a decision.
