We recently connected with David Sodemann and have shared our conversation below.

David, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

At Boho Camper Vans, our mission to “inspire adventure through both travel and living” stems from a deeply personal place. My journey began with the liberating experience of camper van travel. It’s not merely about reaching a destination; it’s about embracing the journey itself. The freedom, simplicity, and connections forged along the way are truly transformative.

Boho’s inception wasn’t just about manufacturing camper vans; it was about creating opportunities for people to break free from their daily grind and experience something profound. I’ve witnessed our vans become catalysts for people to disconnect from the digital world, reconnect with nature, and uncover hidden aspects of themselves. Whether it’s a brief weekend escape or a full-time van life commitment, our goal is to empower individuals to embrace adventure on their own terms.

This mission resonates deeply with me because I’ve personally experienced its life-changing potential. My most cherished memories are rooted in road trips, and I’m driven to share that opportunity with others. There’s something magical about gathering around a campfire under a starry sky or waking up to a fresh vista each morning—these are the moments that leave an indelible mark. Every van we craft represents a chance to help someone else create their own unforgettable experiences, and that’s the fuel that keeps my passion burning.

David, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m David, co-founder of Boho Camper Vans alongside my business partner and friend, Brett Ellenson. Our venture into this industry was born from a shared passion for adventure and the outdoors. Both Brett and I discovered an unparalleled sense of freedom and simplicity in camper van travel. We recognized the transformative power of stepping away from daily routines, embracing the open road, and living more intentionally—an experience we felt compelled to share with others.

We established Boho Camper Vans with a clear mission: to inspire adventure through both travel and living. Our focus is on crafting custom camper vans that truly feel like home, catering to a range of needs—from weekend road trips to full-time van living. We also offer rentals for those interested in exploring the lifestyle before committing to ownership.

What distinguishes us is our dedication to thoughtful design and personal connection. Brett and I firmly believe that a camper van should transcend its role as a mere vehicle; it should be a space that both inspires adventure and feels uniquely personal. We invest time in understanding our clients’ specific needs, whether it’s additional storage for a family or a minimalist design for a solo traveler. Each van is built with intention, prioritizing comfort, functionality, and a clean, inviting aesthetic.

Our work extends beyond van construction—it’s about helping people overcome challenges and unlock new possibilities. For many, it represents freedom from conventional lifestyles, an opportunity to embrace simplicity, or a means to connect more deeply with nature and loved ones. We take pride in being part of numerous incredible journeys, from family vacations to off-grid living adventures.

One of our greatest achievements is the community we’ve fostered through Boho Camper Vans. Witnessing the impact of our work on people’s lives is immensely rewarding. We’ve helped individuals create lasting memories, discover new passions, and live more purposefully—this is the driving force behind our efforts.

For those just getting to know us, I want to emphasize that Boho Camper Vans is more than a business—it’s a passion project built on a foundation of care, creativity, and a love for adventure. Brett and I are committed to helping people craft their own stories on the road, a responsibility we take to heart. Each van we create is a labor of love, and we’re eager to share this experience with as many people as possible.

Alright – let’s talk about marketing or sales – do you have any fun stories about a risk you’ve taken or something else exciting on the sales and marketing side?

One of our most memorable marketing endeavors occurred early in Boho Camper Vans’ journey when Brett and I decided to apply for Shark Tank. At that point, we had crafted a handful of vans and were confident in our product, but expanding our brand’s reach seemed like an insurmountable challenge. The idea of pitching our company on national television was both exhilarating and daunting.

The application process for Shark Tank was rigorous. It began with an extensive questionnaire probing into every aspect of our business, from financials to long-term vision. The audition tape presented another hurdle. Without access to professional equipment, we relied on our resources: one of our vans, a smartphone, and genuine passion. We captured footage of ourselves showcasing the van while articulating how Boho Camper Vans was fostering adventure and building a community of travelers. Though not polished, our submission was sincere and heartfelt.

After submitting our materials, we endured a period of anxious anticipation. When we finally received notification of our advancement in the selection process, it felt surreal. The subsequent stages were even more demanding, involving multiple interviews, pitch refinements, and ensuring our financial data could withstand scrutiny. It was an intensive crash course in business pitching and management.

What made this experience particularly significant—and somewhat intimidating—was the realization that we weren’t merely presenting our company to the Sharks; we were sharing our story with millions of viewers. Our goal was to convey that Boho Camper Vans represented more than just vehicles—it embodied a gateway to freedom and adventure.

This experience reinforced our belief that true growth often lies beyond our comfort zone, requiring us to embrace uncertainty and seize opportunities, even when the odds seem daunting. Looking back, our decision to participate in Shark Tank, though initially nerve-wracking, proved to be a transformative milestone in Boho Camper Vans’ journey, opening doors we hadn’t imagined possible.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

Throughout my journey in management, entrepreneurship, and life, I’ve been profoundly influenced by a select few literary works that have become my guiding lights. Two pieces that have left an indelible mark on my philosophy are Max Ehrmann’s “Desiderata” and Edward Abbey’s “Benedicto.” These writings, though distinct in their approach, both offer deep insights into navigating life’s complexities.

“Desiderata” serves as a gentle reminder to maintain equilibrium in a world of constant flux. Its timeless advice to “go placidly amid the noise and haste” and practice self-compassion has been instrumental in shaping my leadership style and personal outlook. This poem’s wisdom encourages a balanced approach to both professional and personal challenges.

In contrast, “Benedicto” by Edward Abbey resonates with a more untamed spirit. It’s a celebration of authenticity and the raw beauty of life lived boldly. As someone deeply connected to nature and the allure of unconventional paths, Abbey’s words strike a powerful chord. His philosophy of embracing life’s adventures with courage and passion aligns perfectly with Boho Camper Vans’ mission to inspire exploration and foster meaningful connections with the world around us.

In the realm of business literature, Simon Sinek’s “Start with Why” has been transformative in my entrepreneurial approach. It underscored the critical importance of purpose-driven leadership and creating a brand that resonates on a deeper level. Similarly, Michael Gerber’s “The E-Myth Revisited” provided invaluable insights into developing scalable business systems without compromising on quality or personal touch.

These literary influences, combined with my personal experiences, have shaped my holistic approach to business and life. They serve as constant reminders to focus on what truly matters: creating meaningful impact, staying true to one’s purpose, and empowering others to live more intentionally.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.boho.life/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bohovans
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bohovans
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-sodemann-16860930/
• Twitter: https://x.com/BohoVans
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@bohovans