We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Brooke Johnson a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Brooke, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
My journey to finding my calling was unconventional, to say the least. While many find their purpose in the structured world of corporate settings, I’ve always felt more comfortable in sweatshirts and flip-flops than in a suit and tie. Years spent as a river guide and leading student trips honed my skills in navigating unpredictable terrain and fostering unforgettable experiences. My first office job out of the field taught me small business basics and allowed me to work with a team of amazing coworkers. After that, I transitioned into another travel company, running operations and sales. Four years of heading an office boosted my confidence and confirmed my passion. Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, I took the leap to start my own travel business. While the road ahead may be uncertain, my intimate knowledge of road trips and the Western landscape serves as a reliable compass. As long as I (mostly) like what I’m doing, I consider it a success!
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
As the youngest of three and a California kid who grew up in the 80s, I was always given the freedom to be who I wanted. I graduated from a small liberal arts college in Ohio and never gave a thought to what I would do after college. Faced with the need for a job, I tried a few before training as a river guide. Being outside, exploring new places, and meeting amazing people while getting paid for it was a dream. Despite the jokes about river guides, my six-plus years in the field taught me invaluable skills in engaging people, developing a strong work ethic, problem-solving, and ultimately, being a responsible individual.
A small student travel company took a chance and hired me full-time, and I was able to transfer my outdoor skills into a professional business setting. Fast forward almost 15 years later, and I’m now running a successful small business of my own, planning trips to get people out on the road and exploring new places. I still consider myself a guide of sorts, and it’s incredibly fulfilling.
I founded Tumbleweed Travel Co with a simple goal: to make planning a family road trip as effortless as booking an all-inclusive vacation. The intricate details involved in navigating RVs, campgrounds, routes, and reservations can make road trips seem overwhelming to plan. Yet, once on the road, these adventures offer unparalleled opportunities for bonding, exploring breathtaking national parks, and relishing the freedom of the open road. Our mission is to eliminate the need for excessive planning, research, and expertise required for multifaceted trips. We take on the logistical work so that our clients can fully enjoy the experience without any added stress.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
When I first graduated from college, I was paralyzed by indecision. I was determined to find the perfect job that aligned with my skills, aptitudes, and personal preferences. However, I soon realized that theory alone wouldn’t lead me to the right path. I had to get out there and try different jobs. Whether I liked them or not, each experience taught me invaluable lessons that I wouldn’t have gained otherwise. The jobs I have hated have taught me just as much as the jobs I enjoyed. So, my advice is simple: Try it. Explore different opportunities. You’ll either find something you enjoy or learn something invaluable along the way.
Avoid comparing yourself to others. I’ve often found inspiration in a poster hanging in my friend’s office that says, “Keep your eyes on your own paper.” It’s a simple reminder to focus on your journey rather than getting distracted by comparisons. Whenever I’ve felt stressed or discouraged, it’s usually because I’ve been measuring myself against others—whether it’s their happiness, financial success, or lifestyle. But here’s the thing: comparing yourself to others rarely leads to anything positive. Instead, concentrate on your own progress and celebrate your achievements without worrying about how they stack up against someone else’s.
My final piece of advice is to focus on what you’re good at. Discovering your strengths may seem simple, but it’s a vital step in navigating your career path. Once you recognize what you excel at, prioritize these skills or aptitudes in your work. By concentrating on areas where you excel, you can maximize your impact and find greater fulfillment in your professional endeavors. I stumbled upon the fact that I’m an excellent organizer who enjoys tackling complex logistics. Additionally, I possess a strong sense of direction and spatial awareness. Capitalizing on these strengths has made running a travel business more rewarding and ultimately fulfilling for me.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
One of the most meaningful gestures my parents extended to me was their unwavering support for my individuality and unconventional career path. As long as I maintained financial independence, they couldn’t care less about my job title or income. Instead of pressuring me to conform, they championed my pursuit of passions and aptitudes, fostering a pathway to a fulfilling career. Importantly, they refrained from comparing me to friends’ children or my siblings. This steadfast support has been instrumental in shaping my journey and has made all the difference in my life.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://tumbleweedtravelco.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tumbleweedrvtravel/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TumbleweedRVTravel/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-johnson-76a93b17/
Image Credits
Ashley Elledge, Susan Saal, Elizabeth Schmidt, Susan Saal & Joie Douglas
