In 2014, Jen Young literally risked everything. She sold her belongings, moved into an Airstream, and put all her resources into the lofty idea that she could make something special for the world. As the co-founder of Outdoorsy, Jen and her team transformed access to the outdoors with the launch of an RV rental marketplace, letting RV owners get paid to share their vehicles that were previously sitting unused most of the year.
Since 2015, Outdoorsy has earned the trust of millions of travelers worldwide, with more than seven million booked nights and a growing menu of outdoor adventures to choose from. Meet Jen Young and learn how Outdoorsy experiences are great for indoorsy types, too.
Tell me a bit about your younger years. Where did you grow up, and were you into the outdoors as a kid?
I grew up in Montreal, Quebec, and moved through several small towns before I landed in Vancouver living with my dad for high school. Both sides of the country brought incredible, simple camping experiences and provincial parks for fishing, letting the days pass by roaming around in the summer sun.
Living in Vancouver and near my cousins made me wish I were more outdoorsy. They are massive outdoor adventurers and do things on a grand scale. I wanted to be just like them, but I was more drawn to city life and travel. It wasn’t until years later that I truly embraced the outdoors.
Tell me about the professional trajectory that led to founding Outdoorsy.
I led a full-on, full-throttle, 20-year career in marketing, including 10 years at WPP, considered the world’s biggest advertising agency group. My career was incredible, working with the most talented creative marketers, and I enjoyed seeing the world. But by 2012, I was a burnt-out corporate executive struggling with meaning and purpose.
I was searching for more and drawn to the great outdoors. Every minute that I was surrounded by the great skies, oceans, lakes, and mountains, I knew there was a power far greater than myself. The stillness of nature called my soul, and I was a better person for it. This tugging drew me to want to work on and build something that connected us to more time outdoors.
In nature, I saw an opportunity to build a company to promote human thriving. As we thought more about business strategy and our options in the great outdoors, marketplaces were taking off and becoming successful in many other verticals, so we thought we could start there.
How does your Austin, TX, locale color and nurture your business and personal life?
Living in Austin profoundly influences my business at Outdoorsy and my personal life. Austin’s entrepreneurial spirit fosters innovation and creativity, which are integral ingredients for realizing Outdoorsy’s mission and long-term brand goals. Austin’s eclectic culture and natural beauty offer a perfect balance between work and play.
The city is surrounded by stunning destinations like the Hill Country, where I often escape to recharge. Whether paddle boarding on Lady Bird Lake, walking the Greenbelt, or people-watching, Austin provides endless outdoor adventures, aligning perfectly with Outdoorsy. Being central to many destinations means there’s always a new adventure just a short drive away.
Is there one particular aspect of Outdoorsy that you love to use?
One aspect of Outdoorsy that I personally love is our “Get It Delivered” feature. This innovative service allows you to have your RV or campervan delivered directly to your campsite. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy the RV experience without any hassle of planning, driving, or setting up the vehicle themselves! Everything is ready and waiting for you — just like booking a hotel room, but with the added magic of being immersed in nature.
The last time I used this feature was on a solo trip to our beautiful campground in Yosemite National Park. After a super long day of traveling from Texas, it was a dream to arrive and find my rig already set up, with the campsite perfectly prepared.
From waking up to breathtaking views of El Capitan to cozy evenings by the campfire, the convenience and simplicity of having our RV delivered enhanced every moment. It was the perfect blend of comfort and adventure, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty of the great outdoors while enjoying all the comforts of home.
What’s a common misconception people have about Outdoorsy?
We’re not just about RV rentals! The Outdoorsy Group has three lines of business: marketplace/technology, insurance, and real estate. Outdoorsy.com is a marketplace that provides ways to travel via RV rentals and places to stay outdoors. Roamly is an insurance company that provides peace of mind for any outdoor adventure.
Thirdly, Outdoorsy Destination Network is a property business that owns and operates campgrounds and glamping retreats in iconic outdoor locations. These facets operate synergistically to create an unmatched outdoor travel and hospitality ecosystem.
What’s something that people are often surprised to learn about you?
I’ve lived and worked on three continents: EMEA (Europe, the Middle East, and Africa), APAC (the Asia-Pacific), and North America. I’ve traveled to more than 40 countries, from backpacking to luxury living, and I lived in an Airstream for almost a year when starting our company.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received, and from whom?
Thoughts are optional. Advice from Byron Katie. So many of our thoughts can be limiting beliefs. I try to stay open, lead with enthusiasm, and avoid inaccurate, negative thoughts. Release your limiting beliefs and remind yourself of the concepts that lead you to do your best work — personally and professionally.
Aside from faith, family, and friends, name three things you can’t live without.
- Puffer coats. I’m always cold, but I want to look cool. My favorites are the Super Puff (or lightweight ones) from Herno.
- Peppermint tea. It’s soothing, easy on the tummy, and a good digestive. I always travel with at least three sachets in my travel tote.
- Smile. One of the most powerful phrases I have ever read is ‘peace begins with a smile.’ I try to have this with me at all times.
LIGHTNING ROUND!
Favorite hidden gem in the Southwest: Marfa, Texas! It’s an eclectic arts hub in the middle of the desert, famous for its mysterious Marfa Lights and vibrant art scene.
Favorite place to vacation: I always say I’m creating a life I don’t want to take a vacation from. But I’m going to say Durango, Colorado. It’s the perfect blend of outdoor adventure, rich history, and vibrant community, and we have a ranch where I love to relax.
Go-to birthday present (to give): The Jo Malone Pomegranate Noir candle. It’s a present — whether wrapped or not!
Thanks for chatting, Jen!
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