Austin O’Neal and Megan Benzik return for a round two on the podcast - although it’s a round three for Megan. They moved into a van last summer, but they wouldn’t consider themselves minimalists. Instead, their decision was based upon a desire for freedom and has given them perspective on the dangers of hyper-intention and outcome-dependence in competitive CrossFit. They have also recently launched their own coaching business, called Live ATOP coaching.

Check out more from Austin & Megan here:

• Website: www.liveatopcoaching.com
• Instagram: @atoneal_liveatopcoach | @megbenz_liveatopcoach | @live_atop_coaching

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Show Notes:

• [01:19] The social dynamics of van life and the descent into hippiedom after 10 months of living in a van
• [04:40] Moving into a van wasn’t necessarily about minimalism – it was more about finding freedom and creating clear priorities. A lack of options allows for increased efficiency.
• [09:18] Many people fantasize about minimalism or starting a business, so there’s a lot of fluffy content that appeals to the crowd who hates their job and wishes they were doing something else that isn’t actually applicable to people who are really living that lifestyle.
• [15:11] Transitioning from normal life to van life was surprisingly smooth – although there were a few surprises.
• [22:00] Finding a balance with fitness and maintaining a serious training routine while living in a van – and getting out of a counterproductive and outcome-focused relationship with competitive CrossFit
• [26:30] Most people are pretty supportive of van life – but occasionally a cop kicks you out of where you’re trying to sleep
• [35:45] Taking a risk and starting your own coaching business – while minimizing that risk and building confidence through exposure to world class coaches
• [44:30] Getting enough initial clients that starting a business doesn’t feel totally insane and risky – and thinking through the competitive implications for the changing season structure in the competitive CrossFit landscape
• [58:23] Best national parks and hiking spots

Links and Resources Mentioned

• “How Minimalism Brought Me Freedom and Joy” by James Altucher
• Marie Kondo
• OPEX North Scottsdale
• CrossFit Back-on-the-Bar
• “Matt Foley: Van Down By The River” from Saturday Night Live
• Windy City Strength & Conditioning
• Alo Moves
• Sedona
• Lost Coast Trail
• Moab