Beth Atencio's Midlife Transformation: From Dark Times to Epic Solo Van Adventures

#123 - Beth Atencio didn't always love the outdoors, but a dark period in her life and a therapist's advice led her to find healing in nature. Her story of transformation from simple walks to epic hikes around Lake Tahoe is a testament to the power of stepping out of one's comfort zone. Discover how she took a leap during the COVID-19 pandemic by purchasing and converting a van, opening the door to the joys of life on the road.Join us as Beth shares the heartfelt support she received from her family and friends, including her parents who even embarked on their own travel adventures inspired by her courage. You'll hear about the initial skepticism from her children and how they eventually came to appreciate the happiness this new lifestyle brings her. Beth offers practical insights into solo van life, underscoring the importance of flexibility and the thrill of taking risks to follow one's passions.From the serene aquamarine waters of Diablo Lake to the awe-inspiring wildlife encounters in the Grand Tetons, Beth's adventures are nothing short of extraordinary. Balancing full-time work and a burgeoning passion for travel, she decided to embrace a more nomadic lifestyle supported by a close-knit work community. Don't miss her inspiring plans, including van expos, travels to Arkansas and Tennessee, and a highly-anticipated bucket-list trip to Canada and Alaska. Follow her ongoing journey on Instagram at @mid.lifeadventurer and on YouTube @mid.lifeadventurer.Be sure and leave me a rating and review on Apple Podcast or wherever you listen to your podcasts and give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.