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In this episode of the RVing with Joe & Kait podcast, we chat with Ethan Wayne, son of legendary actor John Wayne, about how growing up on remote film sets shaped his love for the road and his unique entry into vanlife.
Ethan shares stories from his early days as a stuntman, how traveling with his dog Finn inspired his van builds, and why he chooses to stay in his Storyteller Overland during cross-country trips for the John Wayne Cancer Foundation. We also dive into the mission behind the Grit Series trail runs, the Foundation’s impact on cancer care, and how vanlife has helped him slow down, simplify, and embrace life with more calm and gratitude.
I love the fact that some trips are horrible and you’re hot and sweaty and you’re dirty and you’re uncomfortable – and other ones are just amazing. So it really helped me just chill out, relax.
Ethan Wayne on camper van life
Ethan Wayne on Vanlife and Carrying the John Wayne Legacy
Where to listen
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Episode Guest
Ethan Wayne is the president of John Wayne Enterprises and Director of John Wayne Cancer Foundation.
John Wayne Enterprises’ mission is to preserve and protect the name, image, and likeness of John Wayne by associating the John Wayne brand with quality and timeless products and experiences that embody the spirit of John Wayne and give back to the community.
The mission of the John Wayne Cancer Foundation is to lead the fight against cancer with courage, strength, and grit. John Wayne Cancer Foundation funds novel and innovative programs that improve cancer patients’ outcomes and save lives through research, education, awareness, and support.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
Key Highlights
- RVing Since Childhood: Growing up on Western film sets in remote locations, Ethan Wayne’s earliest memories involve traveling and living in RVs.
- From Stuntman to Soap Operas: After the loss of his father, Ethan was introduced to the film industry through stunt work on The Blues Brothers, Knight Rider, and BJ and the Bear, eventually landing an acting role on The Bold and the Beautiful.
- Building Community Through Travel: Ethan emphasizes the camaraderie found in the vanlife community, particularly within the Storyteller Overland group, where friendships often start with just spotting another van.
- Why He Chose Storyteller Overland: Climate control for his dog Finn, no generator, and reliable build quality made Storyteller an ideal upgrade from his self-converted camper van.
- Lessons from the Road: RVing has helped Ethan slow down, embrace discomfort, and appreciate the freedom of movement, even during “bad” travel days.
- Every Vanlife Trip Isn’t Perfect and That’s Okay: Ethan reflects on the less glamorous side of RV travel – from sweltering nights and muddy dogs to unexpected mechanical issues – and embraces it all as a meaningful part of the journey that makes the rewarding moments even more worthwhile.
- Camp With a Cause: Some of the John Wayne GRIT Series runs are held in remote, scenic locations that naturally align with RV travel. These events offer a chance to plan a stop that blends the outdoors with the opportunity to support cancer research and connect with a like-minded community.
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