Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means we will earn a commission on the products or services you purchase using the links. There is no additional cost to you and the earnings help keep this website running. Read the Affiliate Disclaimer for more information.
In this episode of the RVing with Joe & Kait podcast, we chat with Joel Holland, CEO of Harvest Hosts, about his fascinating journey from leading a video technology company to acquiring and growing one of our favorite RV membership programs. Our discussion explores Joel’s transition from the daily grind to the freedom of RVing, the impulsive purchase of his first RV, and the subsequent adventures that led him to Harvest Hosts.
We delve into the motivations behind the acquisition of Escapees RV Club, the impact on the RV community, and Joel’s thoughts on the future of RVing. Joel also shares memorable stories from his travels, tips for making the most of a Harvest Hosts membership, and insights into the evolving landscape of RVing. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with valuable tips and exciting updates for RVers.
“Make stories not stops.”
Joel Holland, CEO of Harvest Hosts
Joel Holland of Harvest Hosts
Where to listen
- Listen on Apple Podcasts
- Listen on Spotify
- Listen on Amazon Music
- Listen on iHeartRadio
- Listen on Pandora
- Listen on Podcast Addict
If you enjoyed this episode of RVing with Joe & Kait, please leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify. It would mean a lot to us. Thank you!
Episode Guest
Joel Holland is the CEO of Harvest Hosts, a membership program that connects RVers with unique overnight experiences at 5,000+ wineries, farms, breweries, museums, golf courses and other interesting destinations in the US and Canada. He is also the founder of Storyblocks, which was purchased by private equity firm Great Hill Partners in June 2020.
Joel has been named one of the “Top 25 Entrepreneurs Under 25” by BusinessWeek Magazine, “Young Entrepreneur of the Year” by the United States Small Business Administration, “Entrepreneur of the Year” for the Greater Washington DC Region by Ernst & Young, and recognized on the Inc. “30 Under 30” list.
When he isn’t working, Joel is outside as much as possible with his family in Vail. He is proud to be a member of Vail Mountain Rescue, the search and rescue team for Eagle County, CO.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
- Harvest Hosts
- Harvest Hosts Review
- Boondockers Welcome
- Boondockers Welcome Review
- Escapees RV Club
- Escapees RV Club Review
- We’re the Russos YouTube Channel
- Newsletter sign up
- Book 1: Take Risks
- Book 2: Tales From the Open Road
Key Highlights
- From Corporate Life to RV Adventures: Joel shares the pivotal moment that led him and his wife to leave behind the conventional 9-to-5 lifestyle. This marked the beginning of their journey into the RV lifestyle, fueled by a desire for freedom and adventure.
- Impulse RV Purchase to RVing 48 States: Joel recounts the spontaneous decision to buy their first RV, the challenges they faced in getting started, and how their initial leap into RVing set the stage for their travel lifestyle.
- Discovering Harvest Hosts: Joel details his first encounter with Harvest Hosts and how it transformed his RV experience. This discovery led him to reach out to the founders, eventually resulting in him acquiring the company and significantly expanding its network and membership.
- Integrating Boondockers Welcome: Joel explains how the acquisition of Boondockers Welcome added a new dimension to Harvest Hosts, providing RVers with access to private properties for overnight stays.
- Acquiring Escapees RV Club: Joel discusses the strategic acquisition of Escapees RV Club and his vision for enhancing community and camping experiences for RVers.
- Pro Tips on Using Harvest Hosts: Joel offers tips for making the most of a Harvest Hosts membership, including the importance of using the app to find and book stays, as well as the benefits of staying multiple nights at certain locations.
- Adapting to Trends and Climate: Joel addresses the impact of changing weather patterns on RV travel, noting the trend towards RVing earlier in the year and extending trips into the fall to avoid extreme summer heat.
- Looking to the Future: Joel shares his vision for the future of Harvest Hosts, including plans for international expansion and continuous improvement of the host network to provide RVers with diverse and enriching experiences.
📞 Book a Call with Joe
Are you buying your first RV or have questions about RVing? If you’re looking for advice on RVs, what kind(s) to consider, amenities and a whole host of other things you may not have even considered, you can book a 1 hour call with me. With experience in full-time and part-time RV living, including overseas adventures, I’ll guide you through researching, shopping, and purchasing your RV. Get personalized advice to avoid common pitfalls and make informed decisions that suit your lifestyle and budget. Learn More.
