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Episode 132: Why You Need to be Camping on Aug. 21, 2017!

| Updated Mar 22, 2017

On August 21, 2017, millions of people across the United States will see nature's most wondrous spectacle — a total eclipse of the Sun. It is a scene of unimaginable beauty; the Moon completely blocks the Sun, daytime becomes a deep twilight, and the Sun’s corona shimmers in the darkened sky.

In this week’s podcast, we offer a guide to understand, prepare for, and view this rare celestial event. We interview Michael Zeiler, the founder of the Great American Eclipse website, who tells us why RVers are in the best position to view this stupendous event.

That interview is coming up in just a few minutes, along with audience Q&A, lots of RV News and tips and an off the beaten path report.

Click the player below to Listen Now or scroll down through the show note details. When you see a time code hyperlink, you can click it to jump directly to that segment of the podcast.

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Show Notes for Episode #32 March 22, 2017 of Roadtreking – The RV Lifestyle Podcast:

MONOLOGUE

Here’s the link to the post from our Facebook Group that Jennifer and Mike talked about, the story of the snakeskin in the RV: [spp-timestamp time=”4:22″]

https://www.facebook.com/groups/roadtreking/permalink/775652012593780/ 

JENNIFER'S TIP OF THE WEEK

Episode 132: Why You Need to be Camping on Aug. 21, 2017! 1
Jennifer

Have you ever had trouble sleeping in your RV at night because it’s too bright? Then listen to listener Nancy Richardson’s tip on making your own black out curtains. [spp-timestamp time=”9:29″]

Great tip! Do you have one? Well consider this an invitation send me your tips and suggestions for the RV lifestyle. You can use the “Leave Voicemail” link at Roadtreking.com. Just click it and then use the built-in microphone on your computer or mobile devise to record a message to me. You can do it over as many times as you want, until you are satisfied. And then you just click a button and it comes right to my email inbox.

I love hearing from you!

Jennifer's tip of the week is brought to you by RadPower Bikes (www.RadPowerBikes.com_… an electric bike manufacturer offering direct to consumer pricing on powerful premium electric bikes. Now with free shipping!

LISTENER QUESTIONS OF THE WEEK:

Kevin asks about the Volcano Grill… Mike shares his thoughts about this $145 three-fuel portable camping grill. [spp-timestamp time=”14:24″]

Two email questions this week:

From Neal: Just wondering if you have encountered any problems with using BioDiesel in your Roadtreck.  I have the same chassis with a Winnebago unit and I’m planning a cross country trip this Summer.  Did you encounter places where you could not find regular diesel and if so, were there any problems using BioDiesel? [spp-timestamp time=”17:30″]

From Anette: Greetings! I have recently found your website and can't stay long enough to hear enough! I am in the process of purchasing my first Roadtrek! It is a 2009 170 popular with 25,000 miles, one owner. Your podcasts have been soooo very helpful. I have wanted a Roadtrek for the last ten years and have been actively been look for 3 years. My question is do you have any recommendations for a company for extended warranties? You might talk about it on one of your shows, but I have a ton to listen to. Thank you very much for your helpful tips and information. [spp-timestamp time=”21:25″]

Sponsoring this part of the podcast is Van City RV in St. Louis, and their Partner Dealerships Creston RV in Kalispell, Montana, and Wagon Trail RV in Las Vegas. Bringing You the largest Inventory of class B’s from three locations.

PET TIP OF THE WEEK

We all know that humans need skin protection from too much sun. But do you dogs do, too? No granted, dogs heavy fur cast minimize the risk over much of their bodies but one part of them is very susceptible to sun damage: Their nose. [spp-timestamp time=”26:07″]

A sunburned nose on your dog can be painful, and they can also increase your dog’s risk of cancer.

Search for sunscreens that are designed specifically for dogs, and consult your veterinarian for recommendations. You should find a couple to choose from at any pet store.

Whatever you do, do not use human sunscreen. Human sunscreens usually contain zinc oxide. And zinc oxide can be toxic to dogs if they eat it because of the zinc. So check the label before you apply.

You don’t need to cover your dog all over, just in the areas that will be exposed to the sun. Apply it to the snout and nose. Dog hair doesn’t need protection.

This part of the podcast is brought to you by Dozers Dental Chews, an all natural and healthy treat your dog will love. Available direct through Amazon  and sold at Home Goods Stores across their 600 store chain.

INTERVIEW OF THE WEEK

On August 21, 2017, millions of people across the United States will see nature's most wondrous spectacle — a total eclipse of the Sun. It is a scene of unimaginable beauty; the Moon completely blocks the Sun, daytime becomes a deep twilight, and the Sun’s corona shimmers in the darkened sky. A website called Great American Eclipse provides an amazing guide to understand, prepare for, and view this rare celestial event. [spp-timestamp time=”29:42″]

Resources:

Best Places to see totality – https://www.greatamericaneclipse.com/best-places-to-view/

State by state detailed maps of totality – https://www.greatamericaneclipse.com/ 

Books, Maps, Gear, Eclipse stuff – https://www.greatamericaneclipse.com/store/all/

The Roadtreking Eclipse Gathering – https://rvlifestyle.com/roadtreking-total-eclipse-gathering-aug-18-22-2017/ 

The interview of the week is brought to you by http://sunshinestatervs.com/, where every new or used Roadtrek motorhome is delivered to the customer free, anywhere in the country

RV NEWS OF THE WEEK:

Three stories this week… [spp-timestamp time=”48:00″]

Anchorage considers RV overnight ban. Again. Read more

First confirmed sighting of grizzly bear at Yellowstone National Park as the sleepy giants wake up from winter nap. Read more

Arkansas teen found 7.44-carat diamond at Arkansas Crater of Diamonds State Park after just 30 minutes of searching. Read more

This portion of the podcast is brought to you by Alde  the only name in heat that you need to know for your RV

TRAVELING TECH TIP:

Episode 132: Why You Need to be Camping on Aug. 21, 2017! 2
Steve Van Dinter

By Steve Van Dinter

Verizon Wireless

On March 23, puppy lovers from across the country will celebrate their furry friends as part of National Puppy Day. [spp-timestamp time=”55:07″]

And whether you have a new pup or a seasoned dog, you can of course up your pet game with the use of some tech.

The Nest Cam Security Camera is the perfect device for new puppy owners – allowing you to keep your eye on what matters most. Free live streaming lets you see if your pup is getting into places that a puppy shouldn’t – or sleeping peacefully. As a bonus you can let them know you care by talking to them from the tablet or mobile app.

When it comes to taking pup-tastic pics, there’s no better way to do it than with the Google Pixel. Not only do you get a best in class camera but thanks to unlimited cloud storage with Google Photos you’ll never have to worry about running out of space.

If you’re prone to temporarily misplacing things while hanging at the dog park, the Slim Tile bluetooth tracker could be a lifesaver. Tile Slim is about the size and width of two credit cards placed together. Easily slide it into the pocket of your jacket, inside your wallet or fanny pack. Or, attach it to your doggy fanny pack. Should it go missing, simply launch the app and click on its name and you’ll be set!

Who says technology is just for humans? The following apps will surely get two paws up.

First the Dog Teaser app. Tap one of the bones and get a bark, doorbell, dog whistle and more – all of which will perk your pet up. And if you’re looking to soothe them try the Pet Acoustics app. It plays music that has been designed for your pet, in frequency, volume and rhythm – which will surely come in handy if your new pet is excited by the arrival of any house guests.

This part of the podcast is brought to you by Verizon, which operates America’s most reliable wireless network, with more than 112 million retail connections nationwide.

OFF THE BEATEN PATH REPORT

By Michael Deutsch

Illinois is known as the land of Lincoln, but did you know Indiana is the boyhood home of our famed president Abraham Lincoln? Nestled in the foot hills of Southern Indiana’s Spencer county are some of the old stomping grounds of Abraham Lincoln and Lincoln State Park. [spp-timestamp time=”58:05″]

The park is located on highway 162 East of US 231. Like most of our state parks Lincoln has something to offer everyone. From the nature center to the lake, from the hiking trails to the beach, and from the canoe rental to the campground there is something for the young and old alike. We visited the state park for an extended weekend in the late fall; we were surprised to find the campground sold out, but as luck would have it we had reservations.

The campground boasts a primitive tent camping area, electric RV sites near the lake, family cabins and a group camp area. The RV campground has nice gravel sites and older pine trees with younger hardwoods growing as well. We found the lake to have nice scenic vistas to see the fall colors or catch a sunset. The hiking trail around the lake is always a favorite offering a steep hill climb up to a fire tower. For those that like heights, be sure to count the number of stairs on your way up.

Across the highway from the state park is the Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial area. It has a recreated 1820’s homestead, a historic cemetery, hiking trail and Memorial Building with indoor exhibits.

If thrill rides and theme parks are your thing be sure to visit Holiday World and Splashin’ Safari, a short drive East on Highway 162 in Santa Claus, IN. Holiday World is a family favorite boasting big roller coasters, a large water park, and smaller rides for the little kids. It is very affordable for families offering free soft drinks, free parking, free sunscreen and free Wi-Fi. We found the food to be affordable and delicious as well.

So whether you are looking for some adventure in the great outdoors, a history lesson, or a roller coaster ride look no further than Southern Indiana’s Spencer County. Until next time, keep on exploring God’s wonderful creations.

This part of the podcast is sponsored by Steinbring Motorcoach, Roadtrek’s newest dealer and a third generation family business in suburban Minneapolis built on quality motohomes and excellent pricing and service. 

 

RV CALENDAR

Two shows this upcoming weekend… [spp-timestamp time=”1:02:35″]

Progressive Insurance Northwest Sports Show
March 23-26
Minneapolis Convention Center
Minneapolis, MN

Midwest Outdoor Expo
March 24-26
Lucas Oil Stadium
Indianapolis, IN

For a complete list of RV shows this weekend and for the rest of the year, click here.

Please Subscribe and Give Us a Rating and Review!

Many listeners are asking how they can subscribe, review and rate the Roadtreking Podcast on iTunes. With a new podcast like this, those reviews and ratings are really important to be able to show well in the iTunes listings. So if you can, I’d sure appreciate it if you’d subscribe and leave me your review.

Here’s how:

How to subscribe, rate and review a podcast

First, open up the iTunes app on your computer or mobile device. Click on Podcasts up on the top
> From the iTunes Podcasts page, use the “Search Store” field up at the top right corner of the page. Type in Mike Wendland or Roadtreking RV Podcast.
> Click on the logo image of the Roadtreking RV Podcast on the search return page
> From there (see photo above), you can…

1) Subscribe

2) Choose and Click on a star (1-5) that reflects your rating. Five stars means you really like it, one star not so much.

3) Leave a written review.

Thanks to all for the kind reviews we’ve received so far. That got us noticed by Apple/iTunes as “New and Noteworthy.” I appreciate every review!

And remember, you can appear in future episodes. Ask a question or voice your comments about RV topics by clicking the Leave Voicemail tab on the right side of this page here at Roadtreking.com. You can then use the microphone on your computer to record your words.

Mike Wendland

Published on 2017-03-22

Mike Wendland is a multiple Emmy-award-winning Journalist, Podcaster, YouTuber, and Blogger, who has traveled with his wife, Jennifer, all over North America in an RV, sharing adventures and reviewing RV, Camping, Outdoor, Travel and Tech Gear for the past 12 years. They are leading industry experts in RV living and have written 18 travel books.

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