Episode 1: From Eurovan to Dream Sprinter Rig
What happens when you skip the research, buy a van on instinct, and hand it off to pros without asking for a single update?
You get Mike Lyons — VLO’s own customer experience legend — kicking off our new Van Build Podcast with a story that’s equal parts wild, heartfelt, and deeply relatable for anyone eyeing the vanlife dream.
In Episode 1, Mike walks us through his evolution from childhood VW camper trips to life in a Eurovan named Althea, to handing over the keys of a brand-new Sprinter (twice!) to professional builders. Along the way, he shares:
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- Why his first custom van was “too nice” — and what he’s doing differently this time
- How becoming a VLO team member turned him into a true van gear nerd
- What he wishes he’d known before build #1 (hint: electrical systems matter!)
- Why how you’ll use your van should drive every decision
- The moment he stepped into a Site Seven build and said, “This is it.”
Whether you’re a DIYer planning your own camper van conversion or dreaming about having a rig built for you, Mike’s story is packed with insight — and plenty of laughs.
Why tune in?
Because Mike doesn’t hold back. He shares the good, the bad, and the surprisingly funny moments that come with committing to the vanlife lifestyle — like realizing within 10 miles of pickup that his “dream” van might need changes. Or deciding not to build it himself, even as a carpenter, because skiing > sanding.
Listen in if you’re wondering:
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- Should I get a Sprinter, Transit, or ProMaster?
- What mistakes do first-time van buyers make?
- How do I choose a van builder I can actually trust?
- What’s it really like to live in a van full-time?
Key Products Mentioned in Episode 1
Curious about the gear Mike talks about in the episode? Here are some of the standout items and categories that shaped his journey — from DIY beginnings to high-end custom builds.
- 12V Refrigerator – Essential for vanlife. Mike went from a cooler to something smarter.
- Electrical System Components – Batteries, solar, inverters, and more. Mike learned the hard way why this stuff matters.
- Air Conditioner – He didn’t have one in Willow — but it’s a must-have in his new van.
- Swivel Seats – A small feature that makes a big difference in usability and comfort.
- Water Tank System – Your water needs shape your build. Mike learned this as he leveled up.
Ready to ride along?
Check back weekly for new episodes and subscribe on YouTube or your favorite podcast app so you don’t miss what’s next. This van build — and this podcast — is just getting started.
Share with a van-curious friend. And if you’ve got questions about your own build, reach out. We’re always happy to help.
Want to explore more? Visit the Vanlife Outfitters Store to browse gear, learn from real-world builds, and get help choosing the right setup for your own vanlife adventure.
