Episode 57: Nomad Newbie Series – Downsizing
Ready to lighten your load, both physically and mentally? In the second installment of the Nomad Newbie Series, we tackle downsizing – the first but…

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Ready to lighten your load, both physically and mentally? In the second installment of the Nomad Newbie Series, we tackle downsizing – the first but often one of the hardest steps to transitioning to a life of freedom.
With the help of two special guests, we share tips and advice for letting go of your possessions. Chris DiCroce, a former Nashville homeowner turned sailboat resident, successfully severed his emotional attachments to material possessions. He discusses the psychological aspects of downsizing and provides a roadmap on where to start, focusing first on the items that carry no emotional weight.
But it’s not just about letting go, it’s also about embracing a new way of life. Kandace and Justin did just that when they downsized to live full time in their travel trailer. They share their approach which consists of starting early, starting small, and making a plan to transition to this new lifestyle.
Whether you’re contemplating a life on the road or the open waves, this episode is for you. Get ready to leave the conventional behind and step towards a life filled with less stuff and more experiences.
Once you’ve downsized, you might be wondering what stuff you actually do need for your new life on the road. Check out my list of van life essentials at https://thewaywardhome.lpages.co/van-life-essentials-podcast/.
Follow Chris DiCroce:
Downsizing For a Tiny Life course
Follow Kandace & Justin:
Tiny Trailer Tips
Give the episode a listen:
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Table of Contents
What We Discuss in Episode 57 of The Wayward Home Podcast:
- Chris DiCroce talks about the psychologic aspect of downsizing: separating emotions from your belongings, as well as considering how donating your things could benefit someone in need
- Chris recommends starting small by first tackling “junk drawer” items that have no emotion attached
- Remembering your “why” for downsizing is what can help you get through the tougher to part with possessions like family keepsakes
- Justin and Kandace share their process for downsizing, by starting a year in advance and tackling it in phases, including downsizing their physical living space along the way
- They encourage anyone considering simplifying their life by living nomadically to “just do it”. With some planning, you can make it happen!
About Chris DiCroce:

Chris and his wife Melody downsized in 2012 out of their Nashville home to move onto a small sailboat. They’ve since sailed all over the East Coast and the Caribbean. Now, Chris is a #1 Amazon bestselling author, speaker, and online course creator.
Chris has helped countless people ditch the confines of having too much stuff to pursue a simpler life. His actionable tips and tricks can be applied to any downsizing situation.
About Kandace & Justin:
Justin and Kandace have shared their passion for camping and travel ever since they rented a teardrop trailer and went on a camping trip shortly after they started dating.
That first trip was the catalyst for many more camping adventures to come. Shortly after that first trip, Kandace bought a 10 foot teardrop trailer so they could go on weekend camping trips up and down the coast of CA.
A couple years later they upgraded to a U-haul camper then to an Airstream. Earlier this year, they decided it was time to make a major life change. Kandace sold her house and her business, Justin left his lucrative sales career and they decided it was time to jump off the hamster wheel and live the nomad life for a while

The Wayward Home Links and Resources
- DM me on Instagram
- Visit my YouTube channel
- The Wayward Home Podcast website
- Download my FREE Van Life Starter Kit
- Join The Wayward Home Facebook Group
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