EP 87: A perfect match for Melissa Mitt | Solopreneur in RV Living

Jan 23

Written By Laura Lynch, CFP® ABFP™ AAMS® CDFA®

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In this engaging conversation, Melissa Mitt shares her journey from traditional homeownership to embracing a nomadic lifestyle in an RV. She discusses the motivations behind her decision to sell her home, the challenges and benefits of working while traveling, and the financial lessons learned along the way. Melissa emphasizes the importance of not settling for a life that doesn't fit and how her experiences have shaped her approach to personal and business finances. She also highlights the significance of self-efficacy in managing debt and achieving financial goals.

Embracing a Nomadic Lifestyle: From Homeownership to RV Living

Melissa Mitt, a financial consultant for solopreneurs, joined the "Less House More Moola" podcast to share her transformative journey from traditional homeownership to a minimalist, nomadic lifestyle in a 40-foot RV. As someone who helps business owners navigate their finances, Melissa also had to reassess her financial and personal priorities, leading to a life on the road. Here's her inspiring story, filled with insights about tiny house living, financial independence, and embracing change.

The Decision to Quit Homeownership

Melissa and her husband transitioned to a nomadic lifestyle after realizing their house no longer suited their evolving goals. The turning point came when Melissa’s husband, a competitive bass fisherman, began traveling extensively for tournaments. They had to choose between maintaining a stationary home or fully committing to a life of travel.

Having lived in their Minnesota house for nine years, the couple cherished their memories there but felt constrained by traditional expectations of homeownership. “We don’t have kids,” Melissa explained, “so what were we holding onto the house for?” The couple sold their home, using the equity as a financial runway to explore life on the road in an RV, proving that living small doesn’t mean living less.

Tiny House Living: Transitioning to an RV

Melissa and her husband now reside in a 40-foot fifth-wheel RV with a garage that Melissa has converted into her office. This office includes a separate entrance, soundproofing, and a fold-down patio. It’s a space where she manages her financial consulting business while enjoying the flexibility of nomadic living.

RV living has taught Melissa valuable lessons in minimalism. With limited space, every item must have a purpose and a designated place. The couple’s lifestyle also aligns with their values of thoughtful consumerism and sustainability.

Financial Independence and Flexibility

Selling their home played a crucial role in Melissa’s transition to financial independence. The equity from the house funded her pivot from in-person sign language interpreting to running an online financial consulting business. Melissa’s background in business administration and personal finance management helped her create a sustainable career that complements her nomadic lifestyle.

Melissa’s financial journey began with $50,000 in debt after college, which she paid off in three years. This experience shaped her approach to money management and informed her decision to carry some strategic debt for their truck and RV. “Debt can be used in a healthy way,” she said, emphasizing the importance of reframing financial tools to meet one’s needs.

Challenges of RV Life

While the freedom of RV living is rewarding, it comes with logistical challenges. Unpredictable travel schedules, vehicle breakdowns, and unreliable internet connectivity are part of the reality. Melissa shared how careful planning and flexible commitments help her balance business responsibilities with the uncertainties of life on the road.

Despite these challenges, the couple enjoys seasonal migrations, spending winters in warmer climates and summers helping on Melissa’s family farm in Iowa. This rhythm provides variety and grounding, offering the best of both mobility and connection to family.

Lessons from the Nomadic Lifestyle

Melissa’s journey underscores the value of:

Not Settling for Less: She encourages others to listen to their instincts and embrace change when something isn’t working.

Minimalism and Purposeful Living: RV life has deepened her appreciation for intentional living, reducing clutter, and finding creative solutions to everyday problems.

Adaptability: Whether it’s navigating unexpected challenges or pivoting her career, Melissa’s story highlights the importance of resilience and flexibility.

Inspiring Solopreneurs with a Holistic Approach

As a financial consultant, Melissa combines her expertise in personal and business finances to help solopreneurs align their financial goals with their personal values. She believes that managing money is an ecosystem where personal and business finances influence one another. By addressing both, Melissa provides her clients with comprehensive financial guidance.

Conclusion

Melissa’s journey from homeownership to a nomadic lifestyle in an RV is a testament to the freedom that comes with embracing change and living intentionally. Her story inspires those seeking a minimalist, financially independent lifestyle while balancing career and personal aspirations. For more insights into tiny house living, financial tips, and nomadic life, Melissa invites you to connect with her on Instagram at _MelissaMitt.