On this episode, STO Nation hosts a roundtable discussion about mobile connectivity options, Starlink, and the evolution of staying connected on the road. Michelle hosts Lorenzo, Craig, and Jason to talk about the hierarchy of options to stay connected on the road, related van mods, and all about Starlink — pros and cons, mounting considerations, and real-world uptime experiences.

You won’t want to miss this episode if you’re a digital nomad, need to WFV (Work-from-Van), or are exploring connection options!

You can also follow them on their social media:

Michelle: @canwegothatway

Lorenzo: @b2modefamily

Jason: @zelda_mode4x4

Craig: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCM0EO8K_ZnVxeXeJDa8F4dg

And don't forget to check out and subscribe to STO Nation's:

Website: www.stonation.life

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stonation.life

Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/sto_nation

Or you can buy us a beer!: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/stonation

A special thanks to our sponsors:

Volta Power Systems - https://voltapowersystems.com

Overland Extreme - http://overlandxtreme.com

La Mesa RV - https://www.lamesarv.com

Canyon Adventure Vans - https://canyonadventurevans.com

STO Nation Production Credits:

Audio Engineer: Stephen Grasso https://www.instagram.com/go_that_a_way

Marketing Director: Guillaume Golsong https://www.instagram.com/ggolsong

Original Music and Artist: Jason Walsmith and The Nadas https://www.instagram.com/theracontourists

Sound Designer: Lorenzo Interiano https://www.instagram.com/b2modefamily

Website Designer Extraordinaire: Peng Shi https://www.instagram.com/spikeehair

On this episode we were so lucky to get a chance to speak with Susan Pieper, owner and founder of DMOS.

In this episode we learn:

- How to pronounce Dmos (Hint think D-MOST( just leave off the T).

-How Susan’s frustration led to the creation of the DMOS shovel.

- What DMOS actually stands for - Its probably what you think it is, but you won’t know if you don’t tune in!

- When is a shovel not just a shovel - and how about when that shovel helps Olympians earn medals!

- What it's like to be judged by and work with some of the biggest figures in the aftermarket industry at SEMA.

Additionally Susan shares stories from her experiences in the Rebelle Rally and as an open ocean sailor. Join us for a great conversation about simplicity, colors, and making sure everything has a place, and everything is in its place.

Make sure to follow DMOS on their:

Website: https://dmoscollective.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dmos_collective

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DMOSCollective

And don't forget to check out and subscribe to STO Nation's:

Website: www.stonation.life

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stonation.life

Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/sto_nation

Or you can buy us a beer!: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/stonation

A special thanks to our sponsors:

Volta Power Systems - https://voltapowersystems.com

Kerma Vans - https://kermavans.com

La Mesa RV - https://www.lamesarv.com

Canyon Adventure Vans - https://canyonadventurevans.com

STO Nation Production Credits:

Audio Engineer: Stephen Grasso https://www.instagram.com/go_that_a_way

Marketing Director: Guillaume Golsong https://www.instagram.com/ggolsong

Original Music and Artist: Jason Walsmith and The Nadas https://www.instagram.com/theracontourists

Sound Designer: Lorenzo Interiano https://www.instagram.com/b2modefamily

Website Designer Extraordinaire: Peng Shi https://www.instagram.com/spikeehair

Marci sits down with Talon Sei during @_flarespace_ Back to Baja event to talk about how he got into vanlife, started a YouTube channel, and what his impressions are with MODE vans.

**The audio isn't the greatest due to the wind so we apologize about that.**

Be sure to follow Talon on his Instagram and YouTube.

Don't forget to check out and subscribe to STO Nation's website, YouTube channel, Instagram, and help contribute to our Patreon page!

A special thanks to our sponsors:

Volta Power Systems

Kerma Vans

La Mesa RV

Canyon Adventure Vans

On this episode, Michelle connects with Head & Neck Surgeon George Murrell, a new owner of a 2022 Storyteller Overland Beast!  In this profile, we dive deep into George’s initial experience with the van, find out how he uses it while hiking the Appalachian trail, and what he’s found unique about the van community on the East Coast.  And of course, there are the usual helpful hints and tricks, mods, and travel advice!

Hint Hint:  George recommends the following products in this episode -  Rain-X 2-in 1 Glass Cleaner & Rain Repellent for the windshield, Meguiar’s Ultimate Black Plastic Restorer for all trim, and Chemical Guys Wrap detailer to care for any wraps on your van.

Don't forget to check out and subscribe to STO Nation's website, YouTube channel, Instagram, and help contribute to our Patreon page!

A special thanks to our sponsors:

Volta Power Systems

Kerma Vans

La Mesa RV

Canyon Adventure Vans

STO Nation Production Credits:

Audio Engineer: Stephen Grasso

Marketing Director: Guillaume Golsong

Original Music and Artist: Jason Walsmith and The Nadas

Sound Designer: Lorenzo Interiano

Web Designer Extraordinaire: Peng Shi

On this episode Chris Cordes, Brittney Block, Steven & Jennifer Sinnott, and Andy Marsh and I have a lot of fun talking about an array of topics to include the thoughts of the new 2023's with the new price increase, Starlink, how couples deal with the toilet situation, how to travel with a dog(s) and keep them safe with the AC, and even how Steven & Jennifer were able to buy the #1000 STO ever made!!

Don't forget to check out and subscribe to STO Nation's website, YouTube channel, Instagram, and help contribute to our Patreon page!

A special thanks to our sponsors:

Volta Power Systems

Kerma Vans

La Mesa RV

Canyon Adventure Vans

STO Nation Production Credits:

Audio Engineer: Stephen Grasso

Marketing Director: Guillaume Golsong

Original Music and Artist: Jason Walsmith and The Nadas

Sound Designer: Lorenzo Interiano

Web Designer Extraordinaire: Peng Shi

On this episode of STO Nation, our audio engineer, Stephen Grasso, sits down with new Beast owner Jeff Hines at the Overland Expo West. They talk about Jeff’s search for a camper van, how he found the rig that checked off all the boxes, mods he has planned for his Beast and places he plans to go.

We have a great time hanging out in Flagstaff talking about community, adventure bikes and beer! We even get interrupted by a neighbor who shares some of his own libations.

We get to relive the whole process of finding the right adventure van, ordering it from La Mesa of San Diego, taking delivery and heading out on his maiden voyage to Flagstaff. Grab a cup of coffee, or a beer, and join us for a fun conversation that will reinforce what it means to be part of the Storyteller Community.

Don't forget to check out and subscribe to STO Nation's website, YouTube channel, Instagram, and help contribute to our Patreon page!

A special thanks to our sponsors:

Volta Power Systems

Kerma Vans

La Mesa RV

Canyon Adventure Vans

STO Nation Production Credits:

Audio Engineer: Stephen Grasso

Marketing Director: Guillaume Golsong

Original Music and Artist: Jason Walsmith and The Nadas

Sound Designer: Lorenzo Interiano

Web Designer Extraordinaire: Peng Shi

On this episode Cie Hoover (@youknewmewhen) sits down with myself, Hugh de Loayza, Mai Yee Mok (@maimokarena) Tim Thorne, and Todd Tanner to get his answers and concerns addressed in regards to picking up his brand new 2022 Beast MODE.

Between the 5x of we share our tips, tricks, and experiences to help Cie be more confident during his walk through.

The fun part is that we were able to follow back up with him after he picked up their new van from La Mesa (Albuquerque) and hear what actually happened!

Be sure to follow Cie Hoover on his Facebook and Instagram. And don't forget to check out his music on his music Facebook and Instagram pages.

Time Stamps:

0:00:00 - Intro

0:00:56 - Introductions

0:01:46 - Introductions: Mai Yee Mok

0:02:19 - Introductions: Todd Tanner

0:03:40 - Introductions: Hugh de Loayza

0:06:02 - Introduction: Cei Hoover

0:08:51 - Cie’s Prior Sprinter Experience

0:09:26 - How to Operate 4x4

0:09:54 - Issues You Need To Be Aware Of Before Driving the STO Off the Lot

0:10:32 - Bring Phone and Record Everything

0:10:58 - Should I Get the Extended Warranty?

0:11:42 - Where You Can Go to Get STO Fixed if all the Shops Are Busy

0:11:58 - Difference Between MB, Dealership, and STO Warranties

0:13:03 - Negotiate MB Warranty into the Deal

0:13:21 - Not all MB Dealership Sell Warranty For Same Price

0:14:33 - Where To Find Useful Information

0:15:19 - MB Dealership, Hoover AL

0:16:55 - What To Do If An Issue Happens

0:17:50 - Who Typically Does Walk Delivery Walk Through (at dealership)

0:18:20 - Why Mai Decided To Buy Extended Warranty

0:19:06 - What Extras To Ask For From Dealership

0:20:46 - What is Gap Insurance And Why Someone Would Want It

0:21:52 - Why You Sign The Paperwork Last

0:22:27 - What Happens If Something Is Missing

0:24:05 - Water System: What To Look For

0:24:59 - Electrical System: What To Check

0:25:40 - Glycol Leak (Heater)

0:26:34 - PSA: Awning and Cabin Light Switches Going Out

0:28:37 - Registering the STO

0:30:00 - Tricks On Using The Key Fob

0:32:55 - ‘Hey Mercedes’ Voice Activation

0:33:17 - Turning Off Auto Lane Assist

0:33:43 - Thing To Look Out For When Using High Idle

0:34:22 - Why One Would Want The ‘Hey Mercedes’ Activation On

0:34:54 - Auto Climate Control

0:35:51 - Disconnect Center Speaker Hack

0:37:36 - XM Radio and AT&T Hotspot

0:40:01 - Different Sprinter/Overlanding 4x4 Courses

0:41:12 - How To Engage/Disengage 4x4

0:41:57 - Traction Control and ESP

0:42:39 - Shortcut To Turn Off Parking Sensors & Lane Assist

0:44:08 - Window Blow Out - Is It A Thing?

0:45:17 - YW’s Biggest Advice

0:45:35 - E-Brake System

0:46:42 - Last Tips and Advice From Everyone

0:49:20 - Volta Screen Issues

0:49:52 - Volta Screen Issue Hack

1:05:39 - What Happened During Pick Up

1:06:30 - How The Pick Up Went

1:09:15 - The Most Useful Info Prior To Delivery

1:10:33 - How Knowledgeable Were The People Conducting The Walk Through Were

1:11:36 - Trick for Active Brake Assist

1:12:43 - What Insurance Everyone Uses And Why

1:15:12 - Did Cie Choose the Extra Warranty From the Dealer?

1:16:10 - Is There Anything Cie...

On this episode you’ll get to meet Christopher & Liz Mirabile, David Matusiak, and Steve Binkley. The 5x of us talked about a bunch of topics such as upgrades, dealing w/ a HOA that doesn’t allow “RVs”, dealing w/ higher fuel prices, and so much more!

Time Stamps:

0:00:00 - Start

0:00:32 - Please Support STO Nation By…

0:00:58 - Main Intro of Episode

0:08:15 - Best Selling MODE

0:10:21 - Dealing w/ HOAs and the Van

0:11:17 - Changing Stealth’s Wheels & Tires

0:12:39 - Why You Want Smaller Rims, Bigger Tires

0:13:04 - Frustration w/ the Stock Beast MODE Bumper

0:15:22 - Visting National Parks

0:16:26 - Caravan up to AK

0:18:10 - Dealing w/ High Fuel Prices

0:20:27 - Debating On Getting S&B Extended Fuel Tank

0:22:19 - ECU Tuning - Pros/Cons

0:25:15 - Figuring Out the Cohabiting Situation ii the Van on Long Trips

0:26:17 - Dirty Talk - How Everyone Uses/Shares the Toilet

0:31:09 - Why David Chose a STO Over Other Class B RVs

0:33:58 - Why Steve Decided to Buy A STO

0:35:12 - Why Christopher & Liz Did NOT Buy A Revel

0:39:28 - Group Thoughts When Buying Van, Then Waiting 12-14

Don't forget to check out and subscribe to STO Nation's website, YouTube channel, Instagram, and help contribute to our Patreon page!

A special thanks to our sponsors:

Volta Power Systems

Kerma Vans

La Mesa RV

Canyon Adventure Vans

STO Nation Production Credits:

Audio Engineer: Stephen Grasso

Marketing Director: Guillaume Golsong

Original Music and Artist: Jason Walsmith and The Nadas

Sound Designer: Lorenzo Interiano

Web Designer Extraordinaire: Peng Shi