The Overland Journal Podcast Choosing the Harder Path: Storytelling, Sacrifice, and the Road Ahead with Harrison Schoen
Jul 31, 2025
Harrison Schoen, a traveler known for living in a Porsche Cayenne, shares captivating tales from the road and the ethos behind his life choices. He discusses walking away from a $1 million prize on national television, emphasizing that some experiences are priceless. Harrison dives into his transition from a disciplined Navy life to a minimalist nomadic lifestyle and the freedom it brings. He also shares insights about his Unimog build for a Pan-American journey and reflects on the balance between spontaneity and planning in adventure travel.
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Living in a Garage for Freedom
- After the Navy, Harrison lived in a garage and rented out rooms on Airbnb to live for free.
- He downsized possessions and focused on simpler, less materialistic living.
Living in a Porsche Cayenne
- Harrison designed a wood sleeping platform to live in his Porsche Cayenne for two and a half years.
- He adapted the car with a mattress and fridge to create a comfortable, mobile home.
Dempster Highway Tie Rod Failure
- During the Dempster Highway trip, a tie rod on Harrison's Cayenne came loose causing steering issues.
- He improvised driving techniques to manage the problem and reconnected the tie rod upon reaching town.