From Minimalism to the Camino: Lisa & Matt’s Nomadic Life
In this week’s episode of Camino Conversations, I sit down with Lisa and Matt—full-time nomads and bestselling authors—who are preparing to walk the Camino de Santiago in 2026.
Together, we explore their journey from letting go of “too much stuff” to embracing a life of freedom, travel, and discovery. They write about it all at Footnote: Two Nomadic Authors Hike the World.
We talk about:
How it all began – the moment they realized their home was overflowing, what The Minimalists documentary sparked in them, and how a simple decluttering challenge became the start of a brand-new life.
The leap into nomadism – moving from a big family house to smaller spaces, until finally selling almost everything and hitting the road full-time on July 4, 2024.
Facing fears and finding freedom – Matt’s initial resistance, Lisa’s quiet confidence, and how research—and trust—turned anxiety into excitement.
Discovering hiking – Lisa’s decision to rebuild her health one step at a time, Matt’s patient encouragement, and how daily walks transformed into a shared passion for exploring the world on foot.
Hiking around the globe – from the Isle of Man to Prince Edward Island to Greenland, how they find trails anywhere (even from cruise ports), and their best tips for staying safe and spontaneous.
The people you meet – stories of unexpected friendships with fellow travelers and nomads, and the community that forms when you least expect it.
Hearing the call of the Camino – the pet-sitting host who first mentioned it, the movie The Way, and why they both feel a pull toward this 500-mile pilgrimage they don’t yet fully understand.
What they hope to find – for Matt, a time of reflection and spiritual quiet; for Lisa, a personal test of endurance and purpose.
Preparing the practical way – backpacks, transport services, and the reminder that “the Camino is hard enough—you don’t have to make it harder.”
Staying connected while always on the move – how nomadic living deepened their friendships and helped them build a new global community of writers and travelers.
Introverts on the Camino – embracing solitude and meaningful conversation, and why the Camino welcomes every kind of pilgrim.
Lisa and Matt’s story is about more than travel—it’s about letting go, starting fresh, and walking toward something bigger than themselves.
Their minimalist lifestyle has led them to freedom, health, connection, and now a pilgrimage that promises to bring it all together.
Buen Camino, Lisa and Matt. We can’t wait to hear the next chapter after 2026.
More Camino Conversations
To see other Camino Conversations videos (including interviews with those who have done various routes), click here for the archive.
Join us live here on Substack every Wednesday at 11am.
Wednesday, October 29, 11-11:45 EST: Dora Elias McAlister — Dora walked the 100km route from Lugo on the Camino Primitivo. She’ll share what surprised her, what she learned, and the little things she wishes she’d known before setting off. Spoiler alert: She’s got some funny stories of things that “wouldn’t have happened if we’d hired Rebecca to help us plan!” Click here at 11am on Wednesday to join us!
Wednesday, Nov 5, 11-11:45 EST: Maria Andersen of The Perennial Immigrant - Maria first dreamed of the Camino from her couch in Coral Gables, Florida in 2020. Five years later she lives in Portugal and has just completed her first one.
🥾Ready to start planning your Camino?
Rebecca Weston
Camino Planning & Preparation Guide (for People 45+)
Rebecca@TheCaminoCalls.com
Your Camino adventure should feel exciting, not stressful — here are some ways I can help you get ready:
🎥Watch Camino Conversations for practical tips and advice from my guests who have done the Camino (or more than one!).
🗓️ Camino Planning Session (45 min): Get answers to your top questions and a notes doc created during our call.
📞 Full Camino Experience: 6 coaching calls with detailed notes to plan your trip with confidence and ease.
🥾 Walk With Rebecca: 7-day hybrid Camino walks — 3 days guided, 4 days independent, private rooms, preparation classes, and optional check-ins. Click here to be the first to be notified about my next trip.
About me: I walked my first Camino in 2012 . Since then, I have walked over a dozen Caminos—alone or with others; in spring, summer and fall; in Spain, Portugal, and France. I’ve also spent many days volunteering along the trail, and if I’m not walking one now, I’m planning the next—and would love nothing more than to help you plan yours, too. My husband and I live in a town of 6500 people on the Camino del Norte.
