#125 – What if the path to fulfillment lies in choosing the most adventurous route? In this episode of Journey with Jake, we unravel the incredible life of Dan Mathews, better known as the Nomadic Outdoorsman. Inspired by a friend’s advice to always seek adventure, Dan and his family left their conventional jobs behind to embrace a life of travel and exploration in an RV. From launching a successful RV renovation business to Samantha’s courageous journey as a surrogate for two couples, their story is a testament to bold decisions and living life on one’s own terms.
Dan Mathews’ story begins with a simple yet profound piece of advice: always choose the most adventurous path. This mantra guided Dan and his family to leave behind their nine-to-five jobs, which included working for a nonprofit and in the armor industry, to embrace a life full of exploration and adventure. This decision wasn’t made lightly; it required courage and a willingness to step into the unknown. They renovated an RV, turning it into their mobile home and business, and set off to travel extensively, covering numerous states and creating unforgettable memories along the way.
One of the most remarkable aspects of their journey is Samantha’s role as a surrogate for two couples. This selfless act of carrying and giving birth to someone else’s child adds a layer of depth to their story, showcasing their commitment to helping others while living an adventurous life. It’s a testament to their character and the values they hold dear, emphasizing that adventure isn’t just about thrill-seeking but also about making meaningful connections and contributions to the lives of others.
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the often misunderstood practice of trophy hunting. Dan offers a fresh perspective on this controversial topic, emphasizing the deep respect true hunters have for the animals they hunt. He explains that displaying animal racks in a man cave is more about preserving memories and honoring the animal rather than boasting about the hunt. Through gripping stories from Wisconsin’s rifle season, Dan illustrates the chaotic excitement and respect that hunters have for wildlife. He shares a memorable anecdote about a near collision with a deer shortly after a shot was fired, highlighting the unpredictable behavior of deer under hunting pressure.
Hunting, for Dan, is more than just a sport; it’s a way to connect with nature and family. He describes how his wife supports his passion, even though she views it as his unique interest. By involving his children in hunting, he fosters their love for nature and teaches them the importance of respecting wildlife. Dan believes that hunting is ingrained in human history and evokes a primal connection to nature. This connection is evident when he introduces others to the outdoors, often witnessing their newfound appreciation for nature.
The episode also delves into the multifaceted world of hunting adventures and the bonds they build. From frog gigging in Missouri to the anticipation of moose hunting in Alaska, Dan’s tales are filled with camaraderie and the thrill of the hunt. He shares his passion for storytelling through his podcast, “The Nomadic Outdoorsman,” where he discusses various hunting adventures and the diverse opportunities available to hunters. These experiences, ranging from catching frogs to planning large game hunts, emphasize the traditions and camaraderie that make hunting special.
Writing a book about their adventurous lifestyle is another exciting chapter in Dan’s journey. This endeavor captures the essence of their chaotic yet fulfilling life, from surrogacy to RV renovation and even competing on a TV show. The process of transforming these experiences into a manuscript is therapeutic for Dan, allowing him to reflect on their travels and the extraordinary choices they’ve made. Personal anecdotes, such as quitting a job for hunting season or disliking sushi even without a sense of taste, add a personal touch to their story, showcasing the dynamics of balancing adventurous life choices with personal values and relationships. 
Faith plays an integral role in guiding Dan and Samantha’s life decisions. They base their choices on the peace they feel, believing it comes from God. This mutual peace is crucial in their decision-making process, as highlighted by a cautionary tale about a regrettable camper purchase that lacked such peace. Challenges like self-doubt, over-analyzing, and external pressures from social media and public scrutiny are discussed, emphasizing the importance of internal security and making decisions as a unit. Despite facing criticisms in their surrogacy journey, Dan and Samantha remain committed to their values, showcasing the purity of their intentions.
As the episode concludes, listeners are encouraged to follow Dan on social media @thenomadicoutdoorsman and @wearedanandsam to keep up with their surrogacy journey and their fun, down-to-earth lifestyle. The episode serves as a reminder that adventure is not always about the destination but the journey itself. Dan Mathews’ story is a testament to the courage it takes to break away from conventional paths and pursue a life driven by adventure, passion, and meaningful connections.
This enriching conversation with Dan Mathews, host of the Nomadic Outdoorsman podcast, offers a unique blend of adventure, ethical insights, and family bonds. It invites listeners to explore the extraordinary adventures and everyday decisions that define Dan and his family’s unique journey. From RV living to hunting ethics and the integral role of faith, this episode of Journey with Jake is an inspiring narrative of choosing the most adventurous path and living life on one’s own terms.