Shows
Self Directed118: David Cole | Questioning Normal – Our Offbeat Life as a Full-Time Traveling FamilySend us a textEver wondered what life could look like if you broke free from the conventional 9-5?David Cole and his family sold their home in Chicago in 2019 and haven’t stopped moving since. Cecilie and Jesper talk with him about how they made the shift from occasional travellers to full-time nomads."I think what stopped us the most was mindset," David reveals, reflecting on their journey from dreaming to doing. After years of passionate but occasional travel, they finally made the leap—starting with house-sitting across the US before boarding a 22...2025-05-0141 min
Our Offbeat LifeExploring Van Life Adventures: From Silicon Valley to South AmericaAbout the Guest:
Mary is a seasoned traveler and author of the memoir "Monkeys on the Road," which chronicles her family's adventurous four-year van life journey from the USA to South America. Raised in England by American parents, she later rooted herself in the USA during college. After a successful career in the tech industry, including a position as a director of program management at Google, Mary decided to embrace an unconventional lifestyle. Along with her husband John and daughter Lily, they embarked on an extraordinary journey down the Pan-American Highway, blending their love for rock climbing...2024-10-311h 03
Our Offbeat LifeTransform Travel into Epic Learning AdventuresJoin David Cole on "Our Offbeat Life" as he uncovers the transformative potential of worldschooling in the episode "Transform Travel into Epic Learning Adventures." As an advocate and practitioner of this educational approach, David draws from his family's experiences and those shared by guests throughout the season. This episode serves as a comprehensive guide to turning global exploration into an enriching education experience for kids, all while fostering a life-long love of learning.
In this insightful episode, David discusses actionable strategies for worldschooling, emphasizing the importance of preparation and intentionality in hands-on learning. Key themes include the...2024-10-2529 min
Our Offbeat LifeWorldschool & Wander: Polyn's Nomadic LifePolyn's Inspiring Journey: Embracing World SchoolingJoin host David Cole in an engaging conversation with Polyn, a traveling mother and world schooler, who shares her remarkable life story from personal tragedy to embracing a world of opportunities. After losing her first child in a tragic incident and grappling with an unexpected empty nest, Polyn turned to world travel to enrich the lives of her remaining children. She highlights the educational benefits of world schooling, offering insights on maintaining structure amidst the wanderlust lifestyle. Polyn emphasizes the value of exposing children to diverse cultures to cultivate empathy and global citizenship. The...2024-10-171h 04
Our Offbeat LifeHands on Travel Learning OpportunitiesUnlocking the World: Hands-On Travel Learning for World Schooling Families
In this episode of the Our Offbeat Life podcast, host David dives deep into the realm of hands-on travel learning, a compelling concept for World Schooling families. The discussion centers around creating immersive educational experiences for children through travel, including field studies, workshops, cultural exchanges, and environmental stewardship. David emphasizes the value of interactive learning environments, from marine biology lessons in French Polynesia to archaeological digs in South Dakota. He also talks about fostering language skills and cultural connections via homestays and local festivals. Practical tips for planning these...2024-10-1018 min
Our Offbeat LifeThe Art of Budget Travel: Christie's Nomadic Lifestyle
In this episode of the Our Offbeat Life podcast, we welcome Christie Ogden, a single mom who has been traveling the world with her kids for 13 years. Christie shares her emotional and inspiring story, from struggling to make ends meet in Canada to living in a school bus and traveling through the Dominican Republic and beyond. She discusses the challenges and rewards of world schooling, budget travel secrets, and how she managed to sustain a digital nomad lifestyle on a budget. Tune in to learn about Christie's unique experiences, her philosophy on positive thinking, and her insights on managing...2024-10-0454 min
Our Offbeat LifeHomeschooling on a CruiseIn this episode of Our Offbeat Life, David discusses how over 1.5 million American families homeschool their children, with some taking their classrooms to the high seas. David shares insights on how his family has turned cruising into an educational adventure, balancing traditional learning with unique opportunities offered by the ship's environment. He covers practical tips, such as using stateroom mirrors as whiteboards, and integrating ship activities into learning modules. From math exercises on the grand staircase to naturalist-led science sessions, David highlights the flexibility and creativity required to homeschool effectively on a cruise ship. He also addresses social concerns...2024-09-2610 min
Our Offbeat LifeEmbracing the Unconventional: Kelly Kotanidis on Blending Travel, Education, and Entrepreneurship
Join David Cole for an inspiring conversation with Kelly Kotanidis in this episode of Our Offbeat Life. Kelly shares her remarkable journey from becoming a traveling family by accident to building successful online businesses. Discover how she balances homeschooling, worldschooling, and entrepreneurship, offering valuable insights into creating a flexible and profitable online business. Kelly also discusses the impact of her recent autism diagnosis on her travels and shares practical strategies for long-term travel. Dive into this insightful episode for tips on transforming your knowledge into digital products and living a fulfilling life.
Kelly's Site...2024-09-2054 min
Our Offbeat LifeMastering Homeschooling While Globetrotting: Tips and InsightsEpisode Summary:
Welcome to another exciting episode of "Our Offbeat Life," hosted by David Cole. This week, we're diving into the world of travel homeschooling, offering invaluable tips and strategies for blending education with adventure. David discusses how travel can be an enriching educational experience, providing unique learning opportunities that traditional classrooms often lack. By turning every destination into a classroom, families can enhance their children's education in ways that are both engaging and memorable.
Discover the benefits of experiential learning, cultural immersion, and real-life lessons while traveling. David shares practical advice on setting up...2024-09-1318 min
Our Offbeat LifeFamily Travel Secrets: Digital Nomad Tips with George AvelinoAbout the Guest:
George AvelinoGeorge Avelino, along with his wife Heidi, is the creator of the Kensho Quest YouTube channel. A seasoned digital nomad and IT professional, George started his full-time travel journey in 2008. He made the transformative switch to Worldschooling his children and navigating digital nomad visas, becoming an influential voice in the travel community. George's extensive experience in both the IT sector and global living makes him a trusted guide for families aspiring to a life of full-time travel and unconventional learning.
Episode Summary:
Join David Cole as he delves into...2024-09-061h 08
Our Offbeat LifeHow Unschooling Transforms LivesAbout the Hosts:
Brodi Cole & David Cole
Brodi and David Cole are full-time traveling digital nomad parents who are passionate about alternative education, particularly unschooling. With years of experience unschooling their child while exploring the world, they have become advocates for individualized, curiosity-driven learning. They share their unique lifestyle and insights through their podcast "Our Offbeat Life," where they discuss various aspects of traveling and unschooling, providing a wealth of knowledge and inspiration to their audience.
Episode Summary:
In this episode of "Our Offbeat Life," hosts Brodi and David Cole dive deep...2024-08-3021 min
Our Offbeat LifeTransformative Family Travel with Intentional Adventures on 7 Continents
Explaining how to travel to all 7 continents on a sabbatical! To get a free quote from or partner on this episode SafteyWing, visit the link, https://safetywing.com/?referenceID=OurOffbeatLife
About the Guest:
Susie Chau is a travel expert who specializes in helping families make the most out of their travel experiences. With a background in management consulting, Susie took a year-long sabbatical with her husband to travel to all seven continents, which inspired her to share her knowledge with others. She is passionate about intentional travel and deepening family connections through meaningful experiences.
Episode Summary:
In this engaging...2024-08-231h 25
Our Offbeat LifeRoadschooling: Turning Travel Into Education
Learn the truth about #roadschooling #travelschooling #worldschooling
𝐀𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐔𝐬:
David and Brodi Cole are experienced roadschoolers who have embarked on extensive educational adventures with their son. They have spent years traveling and homeschooling their child, turning their journeys into immersive learning experiences. Through their podcast, Our Offbeat Life, they share their insights, tips, and personal stories about roadschooling and family travel.
𝐄𝐩𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐝𝐞 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲:
Embark on an educational adventure with David and Brodi Cole as they explore the transformative world of roadschooling. Discover how families can blend homeschooling with travel to create hands-on learning experiences. Explore the flexibility, spontaneity, and immersive nature of roadschooling, where every destination becomes a classroom. Learn about the ch...2024-08-1619 min
Our Offbeat LifeTraveling the World with an Autistic Child: Indira Wislocki's Inspiring Journey
About the Guest:
Indira Wislocki, a single mother, full-time traveler, and human rights advocate originally from Argentina, embarked on a life of travel with her autistic son after losing her job during an economic crisis in her home country. With a background in anthropology and a passion for exploring the world, Indira found freedom for her son to be himself while immersing in different cultures.
Indira Wislocki shares her inspiring journey of transitioning into a full-time travel lifestyle with her son, who has autism. From facing initial challenges of fast-paced travel to discovering the benefits...2024-08-0955 min
Our Offbeat LifeThe Power of Deschooling: The First Step to Successful Homeschooling
In this episode of Our Offbeat Life, host David delves into the concept of deschooling as the first crucial step in transitioning to homeschooling and world schooling. He explains deschooling as a detox period that helps students and parents shift their mindsets from traditional education to a more flexible, interest-led approach. The episode covers the stages of deschooling, from recovery to self-directed learning, and provides practical tips for parents to support their children through this transition. David shares personal anecdotes and highlights the benefits of deschooling, including rekindling a child's intrinsic motivation and curiosity. Tune in to learn more...2024-08-0221 min
Our Offbeat LifeSafetyWing Answers Your Burning Travel Insurance QuestionsIn this episode, we're thrilled to have Julia, a digital nomad and part of SafetyWing's partnership team, join us to discuss SafetyWing's innovative approach to travel insurance. Discover how SafetyWing is not just another insurance company but a vision to create the first global social safety net for digital nomads, remote workers, and long-term travelers. We delve into the unique benefits of their flagship Nomad Insurance, the comprehensive Nomad Health product, and their ambitious goal of building a 'country on the internet' with a robust benefits package for global citizens. Julia shares her personal journey as a nomad, real-life...2024-07-2658 min
Our Offbeat LifeMulti Age Education is Revolutionizing Homeschooling and Worldschooling
Think your kids can only learn in a traditional classroom? Think again. Join David on Our Offbeat Life as he explores how multi age education can revolutionize homeschooling and worldschooling. Discover how children of different ages learn together in flexible, interest-based environments. Learn about the advantages, including enhanced social skills and personalized pacing, and get practical advice and resources to implement multi age learning in your own alternative education journey. Don't miss this informative episode packed with tips for homeschooling and worldschooling families.2024-07-1913 min
Our Offbeat LifeBattling Travel Fatigue: Insights from a Digital Nomad Family with Addy Weiland
Combating Traveler's Fatigue: Tips and Insights
In this insightful interview, Therapist, Travel & Mindset Coach, Addy Weiland shares her experiences as a digital nomad traveling with her family. She discusses their transition from RV travel across the U.S. to planning international adventures. Addy delves into the concept of travel fatigue, describing it as the overwhelm and burnout from constant movement, and offers practical strategies to manage it. Emphasizing routine, balance, and mental wellness, Addy provides advice for families considering a nomadic lifestyle. The conversation highlights the importance of taking risks, the potential for returning to conventional living, and supporting...2024-07-121h 09Our Offbeat LifeDifferent Travel Lifestyles and Their Educational NeedsIn this episode of the `Our Offbeat Life` podcast, host David Cole delves into the diverse travel lifestyles families adopt for full-time travel and world schooling. David discusses various approaches including slow travel, fast travel, part-time travel, overlanding, sustainable travel, multisite swaps, and house sitting. He emphasizes the educational benefits and challenges of each lifestyle, sharing personal anecdotes and tips for balancing exploration with education. David also highlights the significance of cultural immersion, the flexibility needed for successful world schooling, and the value of sustainable and socially responsible travel.2024-07-0529 min
Our Offbeat LifeHouse Sitting Success & Full-Time Family Travel with Deborah WalshIn this episode, join us as we dive into the inspiring story of Deborah Walsh and her journey of full-time family travel through house sitting. Deborah shares how she and her daughters have explored 27 countries, saving over $180,000 in accommodation costs while providing an enriching world schooling education. From the practicalities of downsizing and remote work to the unique opportunities and challenges of house sitting, this conversation is packed with insights for anyone dreaming of a nomadic lifestyle. Don't miss Deborah's expert tips and upcoming house sitting workshop to help you get started on your own adventure.
Freebee...2024-06-281h 00
Our Offbeat LifeLet's Talk E-Learning for Nomadic Families
Empowering Full-Time Traveling Families with Online Education
In this episode of the Our Offbeat Life Podcast, host David Cole dives into the impact of online education and digital learning for full-time traveling families. He highlights the flexibility and benefits of various online educational programs such as Prisma, Khan Academy, Create and Learn, Instrucko, AllSchool, OutSchool, Kubrio, The Hub, Synthesis, and Mia Academy. Offering insights into how these platforms support immersive learning experiences, he also discusses the challenges and considerations for parents navigating online education while on the move. From self-paced learning to interactive modules, this episode is packed with...2024-06-2136 min
Our Offbeat LifeHow Online School for Kids is Revolutionizing Music Education / Aimee Bobruk InterviewExploring Worldschooling and Remote Music Education with Aimee Bobruk
In this episode of the 'Our Offbeat Life Podcast,' host David Cole interviews Aimee Bobruk, an expert in remote education and worldschooling, particularly in the arts and music. Aimee shares her journey of transitioning from traditional teaching to online platforms during the pandemic and her experiences with worldschooling communities like Kubrio, Synthesis, and The Hub. She introduces her new venture, TuneAgers.com, a subscription-based online community where teens can learn songwriting and music with professional guidance. Aimee also discusses the importance of environment in a student's learning process, both...2024-06-1440 min
Our Offbeat LifeGlobal Schooling Trends Revolutionizing WorldschoolingJoin host David Cole in 'Our Offbeat Life Podcast' as he delves into the fascinating world of global schooling, exploring how intrepid families embrace education through travel. This episode covers various educational approaches such as worldschooling, unschooling, road schooling, and online schooling, providing insights and practical tips for traveling families. David shares captivating stories from his own experiences as a digital nomad, highlighting the personal growth, cultural appreciation, and life skills developed through these alternative education methods. Tune in for a comprehensive guide on transcending traditional education and fostering a globally conscious mindset in your children.
0:00 Global...2024-06-0719 min
Our Offbeat LifeEmbracing Worldschooling: A Journey of Freedom and Education with Karen KingEmbracing Worldschooling: A Journey of Freedom and Education with Karen King
In this episode of the Our Offbeat Life Podcast, host David Cole delves into the transformative journey of Karen King, a pioneering worldschooler from Australia. Together, they explore Karen's family's decision to leave behind conventional life for full-time travel and worldschooling. They discuss the ups and downs of this unconventional lifestyle, from funding their travels to the profound educational impact on their children. The conversation also highlights the challenges and benefits of living a location-independent life, fostering community connections, and the future of...2024-05-311h 11
Our Offbeat LifeWhat is Worldschooling? 🌎📚In this engaging episode of “Our Offbeat Life”, host David Cole takes us on a captivating journey into the world of worldschooling. Whether you’re a seasoned worldschooler or simply curious about this lifestyle, get ready to explore how the globe can become your classroom.
Episode Highlights:
1. Introduction: The Desire to Travel (00:00)
David sets the stage by discussing the innate human desire to explore and travel.
He introduces the concept of worldschooling as a way to combine education with adventure.
2. Welcome to Our Offbeat Life Podcast (01:08)
David warmly welcomes listeners to the podcast, e...2024-05-2449 min
Our Offbeat LifeThe Wonder Year: A Family Travel Book to Inspire Your Next AdventureWonder Year Interview
In this episode, the authors of the book, 'Wonder Year', discuss their experience of travelling with their families for an extended period. Each author discusses how world-schooling, or using the world as a classroom, shaped their family's journey as well as the numerous experiences they had. They delve into the logistical elements including planning and packing, and also address the challenges faced and misconceptions about extended family travel. They emphasize a central theme of curiosity, explaining how a thirst for knowledge drives learning, cultural appreciation, and connection. The authors encourage families...2023-12-141h 22
Our Offbeat LifeHow To Afford To Travel The World As A Family: Interview with John and Karen YatesExecutive Summary:
The podcast tells the story of John and Karen, a married couple with two kids who decided to travel the world full-time after reaching a low point in their relationship. It covers how they prepared financially, got their kids on board, road schooled the children, dealt with accidents abroad, found purpose through travel, supported local communities, and made the lifestyle sustainable. Their story proves that with proper preparation and resourcefulness, full-time travel can be accessible for more families.
Action Steps/Key Insights/Takeaways:
Test your partner's openness to new lifestyle ideas if your relationship...2023-12-071h 10
Our Offbeat LifeUnplanned Adventures: Traveling As A Single Parent
Lacy's story demonstrates the rewards of worldschooling, even as a single parent. Her top motivation was providing her daughters with a better education and quality of life. Traveling opened up abundant opportunities she never could have imagined while stuck in her old job and lifestyle. The experience has created an unbreakable bond and given her kids a broader perspective on the world. Lacy's example gives single parents everywhere permission to think outside the box. With some creativity and willingness to take a risk, you can craft the adventurous, fulfilling life you've always wanted.2023-12-0647 min
Our Offbeat LifeFrom Breakdowns to Breakthroughs: 4 Years of OverlandingThis episode is an interview with a couple, Ritchie and Abigale of Meat Around The World,
Richie and Abigail share what life is really like on the road as they overland through the Americas with their young daughter Zoe. After getting inspired by shows like "Long Way Round," they bought a truck camper in the U.S. and slowly meandered their way from Arizona down through Mexico and Central America.
Now in their 4th year of slow, immersive travel, they’ve formed meaningful connections with locals, dealt with challenges like breakdowns and border issues, and giv...2023-11-2658 minOur Offbeat LifeLessons from Full-Time Family Travelers Who Gave Birth Abroad and Moved to New ZealandThis episode of the "Our Offbeat Life" features Bradley and Jenny who are full-time family travelers. The discussion revolves around Bradley and Jenny's extraordinary experiences traveling the world with their children, including giving birth abroad during a pandemic and establishing a home base in New Zealand. They share advice on financial management while traveling, navigating work and immigration processes in different countries, and understanding local cultures. The conversation ends with a trivia quiz and their reflections on the benefits of slow travel.
K͟e͟y͟ ͟P͟a͟r͟t͟s͟ ͟o͟f͟ ͟t͟h͟e͟ ͟C͟o͟n͟v͟e͟r...2023-11-161h 12
Our Offbeat Life2-Year Pan American Highway Road Trip with Kids (Lessons Learned)Our Offbeat Life's very own David and Brodi drove from the US to the southernmost tip of South America with their son over the course of 2 years. This episode is all about their inspiration, ups and downs, favorite places, and tips for family travel along the Pan American Highway.
This journey is truly inspirational for anyone thinking
about long-term travel with kids. In this recording from a recent live stream, we share the motivation, logistics, favorite places, challenges, and top tips for an epic pan American highway road trip with family.2023-11-091h 03
Our Offbeat LifeMinivan Mexico: One Family's Captivating 12-Month Road TripHave you ever dreamed of packing up your family for an extended Mexico family travel trip across Mexico? Does the thought of driving a minivan through small pueblos and winding mountain roads sound appealing? As remote work becomes more commonplace, more families are embracing location independence and hitting the open road for Mexico family travel.
In this fascinating interview, Stephanie shares her family's experience traveling through Mexico for twelve months in a minivan. She offers practical tips and captivating stories that will inspire your own epic family road trip through Mexico family travel. Join...2023-11-0246 min
Our Offbeat LifeSingle Mom Travel with Kids: Lessons from 8 Years On the RoadIn this episode, we'll recap Zee's travel journey and top lessons for single moms considering long-term travel with their kids. From navigating co-parenting to worldschooling tips, Zee shares practical advice on keeping travel fun and fulfilling for the whole family.
Whether you're dreaming of a short-term adventure or multi-year odyssey, Zoe's story proves full-time family travel is possible, even as a solo parent. So read on for inspiration to take the leap into your own family's travel lifestyle!2023-10-2652 min
Our Offbeat LifeHow To Be Digital Nomad Parents With A W2 Remote Job
David interviewed Colleen about her experiences of full-time travel with her family, including the challenges of education while traveling and adapting to new cultures. They discussed her journey through South America, detailing the benefits of flying versus driving and the difficulty of packing for constantly changing terrain and seasons. They also talked about the importance of having a varied approach to financing, including owning a home, having investments, and relying on both W2 income and freelancing.Colleen shared her family's experience transitioning back to life in the US after a long trip and Colleen shared helpful tips for families...2023-10-1945 min
Our Offbeat Life10 acres to a bus | El RincónWelcome to another episode of Our Offbeat Life, where we highlight the stories of individuals and families who break free from traditional lifestyles to live their dream life. Today, we're excited to share an incredible journey of a family that is trading 10 acres in Chile for a bus!
Our guests today are Donnie and Carla, a globetrotting couple from Argentina and California who have made the Chile their home. They ignited their love for travel when they got married in Italy, and since then, they've been on a quest to find a lifestyle that allows them to...2023-10-1248 min
Our Offbeat LifeWorldschooling while Driving Central And South AmericaIn this enlightening episode of our podcast, we sit down with Bethany Baker, the inspiring mind behind Beyourbestwithbethany.com, who along with her husband embarked on a life-changing journey by selling their home, buying a van and driving through Central and South America with their young daughters.
Bethany shares her transition into a digital nomad life, a dream that took five years to manifest into reality. She provides insights into how they manage work, family life, and homeschooling while on the road. Listen as she discusses her unique approach to homeschooling, emphasizing the importance...2023-10-051h 15
Our Offbeat LifeTales From A New Full Time Traveler and New Worldschooler | Anna Huckabee
Are you thinking about committing to a full-time family travel lifestyle? Anna talks about her recent journey, sharing tips on how to get started! From connections with like-minded families, to unschooling her children and financial stability while traveling, she goes into all of the aspects involved in worldschooling and nomadic living. Learn how Anna engaged her children in the decision-making process and found affordable accommodations while traveling. Plus get advice on staying engaged as a family, creating happy and healthy experiences together, and upcoming plans for a world school pop-up event in Buenos Aires! https://www.facebook.com/groups...2023-09-2855 minOur Offbeat LifeUnpacking the Adventures of a Full Time Traveling Family | Meet the ColesWelcome to the first episode of our series on full-time family travel! In this exciting kick-off, join David and Brodi Cole, the charismatic duo behind the Our Offbeat Life travel blog and podcast. Known for their adventurous spirit and knack for finding unique experiences, David and Brodi have made a lifestyle out of being a full-time traveling family.
In an engaging twist, they don't bring in a guest for this episode - instead, they interview each other! They delve into their backgrounds, share stories from their travels, and discuss why they chose to embark on this unconventional...2023-09-2156 minOur Offbeat LifeWhy you need worldschooling communities in your travelsJoin us in this heartwarming episode as we chat with Rachel Carlson, the dynamic force behind the Worldschool Pop-Up Hub. As a seasoned worldschooler herself, Rachel shares her rich experiences, personal anecdotes, and insights into the vibrant world of worldschooling communities.
We dive deep into what worldschooling means for families on the move, exploring how these global communities provide not just educational opportunities but also a sense of belonging and connection. From the sunny shores of the Mexican Caribbean to the vibrant city life in Tokyo, we'll discover how these hubs serve nomadic families.
Rachel...2023-09-2159 minOur Offbeat LifeSeason 1 TrailerGet to us and the podcast2023-09-0100 min
LMScast371: Language Learning Curriculum Entrepreneur David Cole's Dynamic Setup with LifterLMS!David Cole, a curriculum entrepreneur who operates entirely online and lives on the road as a digital nomad, joins us on this episode of LMScast. Our host Chris Badgett from LifterLMS, is here as usual.
The majority of language learners that use Cole's services are young children from China. He connects parents with instructors at thetutorresource.com to teach the ESL curriculum to students. Cole utilizes LifterLMS differently from others. Cole essentially charges instructors a fee for utilizing the LifterLMS system to connect them with the students. The instructors mostly use it for screen sharing to teach the students and...2022-08-2039 min