The Workamper Show Podcast

The Workamper Show Podcast


Connie Waddell explains how she supports her lifestyle at 75 in Episode 346

September 02, 2025

Today I will be speaking with a Workamper who is in her 70s and having the time of her life. She gets to visit places she has always wanted to see, and supports herself through a company she started.

Connie Waddell is a 75-year-old solo traveler who proves that adventure has no age limit.

Born and raised in the Black Hills of South Dakota, Connie grew up camping. But, three and a half years ago, she decided to jump into RV life full-time.

She chose a high-top camper van for its convenience and maneuverability. Today, she spends her days boondocking on national forest and BLM land while savoring the freedom of the open road.

Since launching full-time, Connie has been chasing quiet sunsets and waking up to mountain views.

She said the freedom offered by the Workamping lifestyle has been a true gift. But, the most meaningful part has been the incredible people she has met along the way. Several of her fellow travelers have become very close friends.

Connie started Roam Free Threads as a purposeful way to support herself while traveling.

What started as an idea for mugs and T-shirts has grown into an online store offering more than 225 designs. Many of the designs were inspired by her own experiences and those of her fellow nomads.

They include humorous takes about living life in a camper as well as seasonal and pet-themed shirts, Connie’s creativity allows her to enjoy the benefits of Workamping without the demands of a traditional job.

Along the way, Connie has explored some incredible places. Alaska tops her list of favorite destinations. That’s where she worked at a wilderness lodge and marveled at the beauty of the mountains, lakes and even the Northern Lights.

She also treasures her time in the Black Hills of South Dakota. This summer, she is boondocking near Flagstaff, Ariz., not too far from the Grand Canyon.

Connie has traveled extensively throughout the western United States and is now planning adventures that will take her east to pursue dreams of living in Maine or even Newfoundland.

If you’d like to connect with Connie or explore her designs, visit www.roamfreethreads.com. You can also reach her by email at cWaddell70 @ gmail.com.

Today’s episode is sponsored by Workamper News. Much more than just a job-listing website, when you put the tools of this professional service into action, you’ll find out just how easy it can be to turn your Workamping dreams into reality.

A Workamper membership opens the door to a one-stop-shop for all-things Workamping. Being the original resource for Workamping, you’ll find the largest number of job listings, be able to connect with a community of Workampers, and view resources compiled by experts who have been enjoying the RV lifestyle for many years.

If you’re serious about leading a successful and enjoyable Workamping lifestyle, then membership is for you. Join today at www.workamper.com. Embark on new adventures today with the support of Workamper News behind you!

That’s all for this week’s show. Next time, I have an interview that will be of interest mostly to employers and solopreneurs. I will be speaking with a search engine optimization expert about little things companies can do to get to the top listings in search results.

I’ll have that interview on the next episode of The Workamper Show. Thanks for listening, and if you like these interviews, please consider leaving a review wherever you download the episodes.