In this episode of the RV Queens podcast, host Kate White sits down with Lisa Carletti, a former healthcare professional turned Master Certified RV Inspector. Lisa shares her journey from being a certified surgical technologist to living full-time in an RV with her husband Jason and eventually starting their own RV inspection business, aptly named My RV Inspection.
As Lisa and Jason grew their RV inspection business, they quickly recognized a significant need among their clients: finding reputable RV service providers. This realization led them to create My RV Resource, an online directory with over 11,000 listings across 16 different categories.
My RV Resource connects RV enthusiasts with RV service providers and RV product suppliers, offering a comprehensive platform for locating trusted services. RV service providers can add a company listing, which acts as a full mini-website, enhancing their online presence and using the platform as a powerful advertising opportunity and networking tool.
The My RV Resource community is also utilized by RV manufacturers, RV service provider networks, and campgrounds to find reputable services and products within the RV industry. Lisa's new passion project ensures that both RV owners and service providers have a reliable resource to connect and thrive in the RV community.
With a passion for helping others and a wealth of knowledge about RV life, Lisa dives into essential tips for prospective RV buyers, the importance of thorough inspections, and the unexpected joys of RV living. Lisa was excited and honored to join Kate for this conversation, bringing her expertise and enthusiasm to the RV community. Tune in to learn valuable insights from one of the leading women in the RV inspection industry.
Transcript:
Guest (Lisa Carletti):You should be looking for delaminated walls and tires older than six years. 99.9% of people never get on the roof of their RV and don't know what it looks like.
Host (Kate White): Are you an RV person or just curious about RV life? Wondering how people live in a tiny space with their family 24/7? Either way, this podcast is for you. My name is Kate White, and I travel full-time with my family, two kids, and a dog in an RV. Every week, I sit down with fellow RV women or special guests to discuss RV life. Pull up a chair and let's chat!
Kate: Hello, Lisa! Welcome to the RV Queens podcast. How are you today?
Lisa: I'm great, Kate. How are you?
Kate: I'm amazing. We are at a full-time families rally, so it's been a busy week for us, but it fills our social cup. We're based in Tampa, near Lakeland, close to the Strawberry Festival in Plant City.
Lisa: How is that festival? I've heard good things.
Kate: We didn't go this year because we're busy, but a friend went and said there are so many food trucks that it's hard to choose. They also have fantastic concerts.
Lisa: That sounds awesome. It's a good problem to have too many food trucks.
Kate: Yes, it is. So, you have a fascinating story and an incredible business. Let's start with your life before you lived in an RV. You were a nurse, right?
Lisa: I was in healthcare for 25 years as a certified surgical technologist. I loved my job but got burnt out. I decided to become a traveling surgical technologist and my first job was outside of Tampa, Florida. I met my current husband there, and we eventually bought an RV and started traveling.
Kate: What made you become an RV inspector?
Lisa: It happened when we were helping hurricane Irma survivors in the Florida Keys. My husband had a contract with the NRVIA, and I quickly became enamored with running our own business. We love helping people, and I became certified as an RV inspector.
Kate: What does it mean to be a Master Certified RV inspector?
Lisa: It's rigorous. We have to have an established business for at least two years, be published in RV industry publications, provide training, submit a certain number of reports, and be evaluated by our peers. There are only four Master Certified inspectors in the country, and I was the first female.
Kate: That's awesome! You and your husband run an RV inspection business and also started myrvresource.com. Tell us about that.
Lisa: We built myrvresource.com in 2019 to provide a directory of over 11,000 listings across 16 categories like mobile repair and RV detailing. It's free to use for RV enthusiasts, and we aim to help people find reputable service providers.
Kate: What should people look for when buying a pre-owned RV?
Lisa: Look for delamination, check if the tires are older than six years, and see if the roof has been maintained. The roof is the number one source of water intrusion. It's crucial to hire a certified inspector.
Kate: When should people bring in an inspector?
Lisa: As soon as you get ready to look at a rig. Let the salesperson know you will have an independent inspection. For private sellers, inform them right away too.
Kate: What are the credentials to look for in an RV inspector?
Lisa: Ensure they are certified by the NRVIA, ask about their experience, if they have insurance, and how they will deliver the report. You want a detailed, professional report.
Kate: How about RV repair people?
Lisa: Check their online presence and reviews. Ask about their experience, licensing, and references.
Kate: How much does it cost to hire an RV inspector?
Lisa: It ranges from $500 to $1,200, depending on the location and type of RV. It's worth every penny for the savings in repairs and frustration.
Kate: What are some things you wish people knew about RVs?
Lisa: I wish people knew about inspections. Take a breath and let things happen. Don't rush the process.
Kate: What's your favorite RV manufacturer?
Lisa: We prefer all RVs since we are unbiased. However, my husband would love a big old Newmar, and if we were buying a towable, it would be a Grand Design or Alliance.
Kate: Where can people find you online?
Lisa: Our handle is myrvresource on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Pinterest. Our websites are myrvinspection.com and myrvresource.com.
Kate: Looking back, what's changed the most for you?
Lisa: I never imagined I would leave healthcare. I'm thankful I left before the pandemic. Now, I have the freedom to work on my terms and help others.
Kate: What's the unexpected richness you've found from RV life?
Lisa: The community and networking. We've formed great relationships and love helping our peers.
Kate: Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge, Lisa. You're fascinating and incredible. Thank you for your time, and I hope to see you on the road!
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Kate: Thank you, my friends, for tuning in to today's episode. Please like and subscribe on your listening platform. If you want to have conversations like this, head to rvqueenpodcast.com/community and choose your RV Queen Circle today. See you next week or on the road!
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Whether you are an RVer or offer RV services or products, visit myrvresource.com to explore the extensive directory and discover how it can benefit your RV journey.
You can also find out more about Kate and the RV Queens Podcast by clicking here.
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