Wandering Gypsy RV Life

This week, Stan welcomes rodeo man and podcasting trailblazer Doug Simcox into Bertie Bea for a wide-ranging conversation full of laughs, roadside wisdom, and life lessons from both the RV road and the rodeo trail.

They talk about:

• Why 140°F is your TPMS over-temp alarm threshold
• How to handle mail on the road
• Slide issues, voltage drops, and learning to be handy
• Lewis & Clark’s Great Falls journey vs. modern RV travel
• Tips to manage black tanks, tire age, and fire safety
• Rodeo reunions and how RV life and cowboy life overlap

It’s the longest episode yet—and it might be the most fun. You’ll laugh, you’ll learn, and you’ll definitely want to check your anode rod.

🔥 Mentioned in This Episode

🎧 Beyond the Chutes Podcast

Listen to Beyond the Chutes

📦 RV Mail Forwarding Services

• Escapees RV Club Mail Service
• America’s Mailbox
• Traveling Mailbox

📈 Tire Pressure Monitoring

Set your TPMS alert temp at 140°F to catch failing bearings or hot hubs early.

Try the TST 507 System for both pressure + temp readings.

🛠 Stan’s On-the-Road Toolkit

• Multimeter
• Dielectric grease
• Fire extinguishers (Stan packs 4!)
• SPOT satellite emergency tracker
• Calgon & Pine-Sol tank deodorizing tip

🧭 Trip Planning Tools

• RV Life Trip Wizard – customize routes by height, weight & length
• Garmin RV GPS – for when cell signal disappears

🧼 Holding Tank Help

• Kleen Tank – professional black/gray tank cleaning

💡 More Quick Tips

• Cover your tires—UV damage is real
• Only dump tanks when 2/3 full
• Keep fresh water onboard + your fridge stocked in case of remote stops
• Join FMCA for education, roadside help, and rally perks

🌐 Stay Connected with Wandering Gypsy RV Life

📺 YouTube: Wandering Gypsy RV Life Channel

📸 Instagram: @wanderinggypsyrvlife

📘 Facebook: Wandering Gypsy RV Life

🌐 Blog: wanderinggypsyrvlife.com

Whether you’re full-timing like Stan or just weekend wandering, this episode is packed with stories and strategies to help you adventure smarter and stay safe out there.

🛻 Not all who wander are lost.

This week on the Wandering Gypsy RV Life Podcast, Stan Cromlish takes you straight to the banks of Wyoming’s iconic North Platte River for a fly fishing week filled with laughter, lifelong friendships, and big trout energy.

Joined by longtime friends Rowdy and expert guide Brian Hilbert of Bucktrout Outfitters, Stan recounts an epic float down the famed Grey Reef section, a humbling day on the lower river, and a last-minute lake redemption that proves great guides don’t give up—they pivot.

Along the way, you’ll hear stories of shared snacks, missed hooksets, and life reminders from the boat deck. From stellar fishing days to the simple joy of good company, Stan shares the real rhythm of RV life on the river.

Plus, he gives a glowing shoutout to The Reef Fly Shop, Cottages, and RV Park—the week’s home base and a must-visit destination for RVers and fly fishers alike.

🎣 Featured Highlights:

• Floating the legendary Grey Reef stretch of the North Platte
• A fish-scarce float turned a fruitful lake session
• The magic of fishing with friends
• Why The Reef Fly Shop is a top-tier basecamp for RVers
• And of course… “Stan, watch your bobber!”

🛻 Mentioned in This Episode:

• The Reef Fly Shop, Cottages, and RV Park
• Colorado River Outfitters - Book a trip with Brian Hilbert
• Wandering Gypsy RV Life Website
• Read the accompanying blog post

💬 Have a favorite North Platte memory or a “fish got away” story? Share it with us on social:

📸 Instagram + Facebook: @WanderingGypsyRVLife

🎧 Subscribe and leave a review—every shout-out helps the podcast grow!

📌 Episode Summary:

In this special episode of Wandering Gypsy RV Life, Stan Cromlish opens up about the deep, personal pull he feels toward the High Plains and Rocky Mountains. From the dusty pages of Louis L’Amour novels passed down by his Grandma Juanita to real-life cowboy work in Eastern Montana, Stan shares the story of how the rugged West first captured his imagination—and never let go.

You’ll hear how John Denver’s lyrics struck a chord, how fly fishing in the Rockies brings him peace, and why the open skies of the West always seem to call him back. This one’s for the dreamers, the wanderers, and anyone who’s ever felt the tug of a place that feels like home—even if they’ve never been there before.

Whether you’re on the road, in your rig, or just dreaming of wide-open spaces, this episode will remind you of the freedom that comes with the journey.

🗺️ In This Episode, Stan Talks About:

• His introduction to the American West through Louis L’Amour’s novels
• Working on a Montana ranch in 1992 and falling in love with the high plains
• The emotional power of Rocky Mountain High by John Denver
• How the Rockies and plains offer more than views—solace, peace, and perspective
• The magic of fly fishing in cold, clear Western waters
• Why RV travel keeps bringing him back to the places that make him feel whole

💬 Quote from the Episode:

“Maybe the call of the West isn’t just about the scenery or solitude. Maybe it’s about remembering who you are—when no one’s watching and the land doesn’t care about your résumé, your status, or your schedule.”

🔗 Resources & Links:

🌐 Website & Blog: https://wanderinggypsyrvlife.com

▶️ YouTube Channel: Wandering Gypsy RV Life on YouTube

📸 Instagram & Facebook: @wanderinggypsyrvlife

🎣 Related Blog Post: Why the High Plains and Rockies Always Call Me Home

🎧 Listen Now On:

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | RSS.com | Amazon Music — or wherever you listen to podcasts!

In this episode of Wandering Gypsy RV Life, host Stan Cromlish takes us back to the tiny Wyoming town of Alcova—where the trout are legendary, the rivers are crystal clear, and the town sign proudly declares, “It’s a Dam Site!”

As Stan gears up for his epic 55th birthday trip at the end of May, he reflects on last year’s unforgettable float down the North Platte River with fishing buddy Rowdy and local guide Brian. From tangling every possible line on the boat (earning the nickname Mr. Botangles) to landing slab-sized rainbows in the Grey Reef section, this trip was packed with laughs, lessons, and lots of midges.

This year, the same crew reunites—with Bertie Bea parked at The Reef Fly Shop, Cottages, and RV as home base—for another shot at Wyoming trout, campfire stories, and untangling memories.

🎣 Want to know what makes Alcova a hidden gem for fly fishing and RV life? Tune in for river stories, small-town charm, and a sneak peek at what’s to come this birthday week.

👉 Check out the full story from 2023 at:

https://wanderinggypsyrvlife.com/2023/09/23/an-unforgettable-day-on-the-north-platte-with-rowdy-and-brian/

🎧 Subscribe, follow, and stay up to date on all things trout, travel, and tangled tippet at:

wanderinggypsyrvlife.com

In this episode of Wandering Gypsy RV Life, your host Stan Cromlish trades spreadsheets for sunsets as he closes out 10 years in the corporate world and hits the open road full-time in Bertie Bea, his 2016 Tiffin Allegro Open Road, with Rosie, his Chevy Equinox, tagging along.

Stan reflects on his final days in the office in Dallas, kicks off the Summer RV Tour 2025, and shares a few roadside adventures—including a TV mount with an identity crisis and a windy welcome from Kit Carson, Colorado. Along the way, he sets the stage for an unforgettable birthday trip with friends on Wyoming’s North Platte River.

This episode is full of laughs, lessons from the road, and a reminder that retirement is just the beginning of a new kind of adventure.

Key Topics:

• Leaving corporate life behind
• Starting the 2025 Summer RV Tour
• RV maintenance tips (check those screws!)
• Why Chris Ledoux deserves credit for “Amarillo by Morning”
• Fishing trip plans on the Grey Reef & Miracle Mile
• Life in Kit Carson, Colorado — where the wind always blows

🎧 Listen, laugh, and wander with us—because not all who wander are lost.

🔗 Helpful Links:

🌐 Website: wanderinggypsyrvlife.com

📸 Instagram: @WanderingGypsyRVLife

📘 Facebook: Wandering Gypsy RV Life

▶️ YouTube: Wandering Gypsy RV Life Channel

🎙️ Subscribe on your favorite podcast app or RSS: Listen Now

🎣 Episode Summary:

In this episode of Wandering Gypsy RV Life, host Stan Cromlish shares an unforgettable day floating and fly fishing through the legendary Henry’s Fork Canyon in Eastern Idaho. Joined by good friend Jeff Roper, a well-known TV and radio personality, and guided by expert Jon Lewis from TroutHunter Outfitters, the adventure is filled with stunning scenery, unexpected encounters, and plenty of laughter.

From dodging a flotilla of inner tubers to a surprise visit from a thieving osprey mid-catch, the day was anything but ordinary. Listeners will hear about Jeff’s milestone of catching his very first trout on a fly rod, the awe-inspiring beauty of Box Canyon, and reflections on the storied history of the Henry’s Fork — one of America’s most iconic fly-fishing rivers.

After a full day on the water, the journey continues with a relaxing stay at the newly opened Idaho Falls Luxury RV Park, offering the perfect end to a truly epic day.

This episode celebrates friendship, nature, the unpredictable joy of travel, and, of course, a few great fishing stories along the way.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

✅ The backstory of chasing trout across the western U.S.

✅ Why the Henry’s Fork of the Snake River is legendary among anglers

✅ The hilarious obstacle course of inner tubers on the river

✅ An osprey’s daring trout theft — right off the fly line

✅ Jeff Roper’s first-ever trout caught on a fly rod

✅ The magic of Box Canyon’s towering cliffs and clear waters

✅ A stay at Idaho Falls Luxury RV Park and its top-tier amenities

✅ Reflections on why the best adventures are the ones you don’t plan

Resources & Links Mentioned:

🏕 Related Blog Post:

Epic Fly Fishing Adventure in Henry’s Fork Canyon

🌐 Follow Wandering Gypsy RV Life:

• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

🎣 Plan Your Trip:

• Book a guided trip with TroutHunter Outfitters
• Explore stays at Idaho Falls Luxury RV Park (official website)

In today’s episode of the Wandering Gypsy RV Life podcast, Stan shares the heartfelt (and hilarious) story of how he found Bertie Bea, his 2016 Tiffin Allegro Open Road 34PA, and Rosie, his trusty tow car. From lightbulb moments in Perry, Georgia, to RV baptisms in Nebraska, to unforgettable fishing adventures in Wyoming, this episode captures the real magic of life on the open road.

Stan dives into everything from RV shopping tips, mechanical misadventures, and fly-fishing on the North Platte River, to classic RV campfire camaraderie near Yellowstone National Park. Plus, you’ll hear about some, uh…unexpected culinary adventures involving Rocky Mountain Oysters.

Whether you’re shopping for your next rig, dreaming of your first big trip, or reminiscing about your own RV memories, this episode will leave you smiling, laughing, and maybe itching to hitch up and roll out.

What You’ll Hear:

✅ Why Stan chose Bertie Bea over diesel rigs

✅ The RV inspection process (and why it’s critical!)

✅ Lessons from a water pump failure mid-shower in Nebraska

✅ Epic fly-fishing memories from Wyoming’s North Platte River

✅ Navigating the tightest parking job in Washington State

✅ RV reunions, Yellowstone adventures, and hilarious food surprises

✅ Why the community is the real treasure of RV life

Links Mentioned:

• 🛻 Wandering Gypsy RV Life Website: wanderinggypsyrvlife.com
• 📸 Follow on Instagram & Facebook: @wanderinggypsyrvlife
• 📚 Learn More about FRVA (Family RV Association): frva.com

Special Thanks:

To all my fellow wanderers out there—keep chasing sunsets, fixing what breaks, laughing when it matters most, and remembering: not all who wander are lost. ✨

In this episode of Wandering Gypsy RV Life, Stan Cromlish explores one of the most vital topics for RVers and digital nomads: how to stay reliably connected to the internet while traveling full-time.

Stan shares his dual-internet setup that combines the power of Starlink satellite internet and cellular service from T-Mobile and Verizon, all powered by a Pepwave Max BR-1 Pro 5G dual-SIM router. Whether you’re working from your RV, streaming in the middle of nowhere, or just trying to maintain a solid Zoom connection, this episode is packed with practical advice and gear recommendations to keep you online.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why campground WiFi often fails and what to use instead
• How Starlink provides high-speed internet in remote areas
• The benefits of using multiple cellular networks for redundancy
• Essential equipment for building a reliable RV internet setup
• Tips on choosing the best setup for your travel style and connectivity needs

Resources & Links Mentioned:

📝 Companion blog post: Read it Here

📶 Tech gear & tutorials: TechnoRV

🛠️ RV internet installs & boosters: Elkhart Satellite Systems

Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode! If this helps you, consider sharing it with a fellow traveler. Until next time—keep wandering, stay connected, and enjoy the journey! 🎙️🚐🌐

In this episode of Wandering Gypsy RV Life, host Stan Cromlish takes a deep dive into the Family RV Association (FRVA)—formerly known as the Family Motor Coach Association (FMCA)—and why it’s a must-know for all RV enthusiasts. He shares the organization's history, details on its annual conventions, and his personal experience taking the RV Basics training course. If you’re an RVer looking to expand your knowledge, connect with like-minded travelers, and take advantage of exclusive membership benefits, this episode is for you!

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ History of FRVA – How it started in 1963 with 26 founding families and its 2024 rebranding.

✅ Annual FRVA Conventions – What to expect at the Perry, GA (Spring) and Gillette, WY (Late Summer/Fall)events.

✅ RV Basics Course – Why this two-and-a-half-day course is a game-changer for new and experienced RVers.

✅ DIY RV Repairs & Maintenance – Lessons from fixing issues like Schwintek slide problems and front cap separation.

✅ FRVA Membership Benefits – From FRVA University to the tire discount program, discover why membership pays for itself.

✅ The FRVA Community – Meet other RVers through regional chapters and special interest groups like the RV Basics Alumni Chapter.

Episode Highlights:

🛠️ RV Education – How FRVA’s training courses helped Stan troubleshoot issues with his Tiffin Allegro Open Road.

🚐 On-Site RV Services – Getting his windshield replaced and slide toppers upgraded at an FRVA convention.

💡 Pro Tips – Why reading your RV manuals and learning basic troubleshooting can save time and money.

👥 Community & Connection – How FRVA conventions turn acquaintances into lifelong friends.

Resources & Links:

🔗 Join the Family RV Association: frva.com

🔗 FRVA University: Online training courses for RVers

🔗 RV Basics Course: A must-attend for new and experienced RV owners

🔗 Extend-A-Stay Propane Adapter: Learn More

Stay Connected:

📲 Follow the Podcast: Subscribe to Wandering Gypsy RV Life on your favorite podcast platform!

🌎 Follow: Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

🚐 Join us on our Wandering Gypsy RV Life adventures—safe travels, and keep wandering! 🚐

Episode Notes – The Importance of a Pre-Trip Checklist

🎙️ Episode Title: The Importance of a Pre-Trip Checklist

🚐 Episode Summary:

Before hitting the road, every RVer should have a solid pre-trip checklist to avoid costly mistakes and ensure a smooth journey. In this episode, we’ll walk through the essential steps to prepare your motorhome for travel, from disconnecting utilities to securing slides and properly hooking up a tow car. Plus, I’ll share a lesson learned the hard way—like when I forgot to retract my awning and took out an RV park gate! 😬

📌 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✔️ Why a pre-trip checklist is essential for safe RV travel

✔️ Key steps to take the night before departure

✔️ The importance of checking fresh water, propane, and power connections

✔️ How to properly stow gear, secure slides, and prepare your RV’s exterior

✔️ The right way to hook up and test your tow vehicle

✔️ A real-life mishap that proves why double-checking your list is crucial

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• A thorough checklist prevents accidents, costly repairs, and unnecessary stress.

• Taking a few extra minutes to inspect your setup can make all the difference.

• Even experienced RVers can make mistakes—so don’t skip those final checks!

📖 Read the accompanying blog post here: https://wanderinggypsyrvlife.com/2025/04/05/pre-trip-checklist-lessons-learned-from-the-road/

🚍 Join the Journey!

If you love RV life and want more travel tips, stories, and lessons from the road, be sure to subscribe and follow Wandering Gypsy RV Life for more episodes.

🔗 Follow Us On Social Media:

📌 Facebook: @WanderingGypsyRVLife

📌 Instagram: @WanderingGypsyRVLife

📌 YouTube: @WanderingGypsyRVLife

🎶 Not all who wander are lost.