Episode Details
Back to EpisodesAfter Losing His Grandfather, He Took an 8-Day Road Trip Across America
Description
The Unexpected Road Trip Across America After Loss
After losing his grandfather, Jacob Gooden and his wife Maddy made a spontaneous decision that turned into an unforgettable adventure — driving from California to Tennessee in his grandfather’s car over the course of eight days.
In this episode of Inspired Travels with Patti, Jacob joins me to share the story behind the journey, the hidden gems they discovered along the way, and the lessons they learned about slowing down, embracing spontaneity, and finding joy in the unexpected.
From a Danish-inspired town in California and a western-themed McDonald’s to scenic overlooks in Utah, hidden parks in Colorado, a soda museum in Missouri, and roadside oddities in Kansas, this road trip became about far more than just getting home.
If you’ve ever dreamed about taking a cross-country road trip, exploring hidden gems close to home, or simply learning how to travel slower and more intentionally, this episode is full of inspiration and practical tips.
In This Episode
- How grief unexpectedly sparked a cross-country road trip
- Why slowing down completely changed the travel experience
- The best hidden gems between California and Tennessee
- Scenic stops in Utah and Colorado worth pulling over for
- The surprisingly cool soda museum in St. Charles, Missouri
- Why road trips don’t have to be expensive to be meaningful
- Tips for planning a flexible and enjoyable road trip
- The importance of knowing your travel style and limits
- How spontaneous detours often create the best memories
- The value of visiting family and reconnecting on the road
City Stops Along The Way
- Hanford, CA
- Solvang, CA
- Ventura, CA
- Las Vegas, NV
- St. George, UT
- Grand Junction, CO
- Colorado Springs, CO
- Kansas City, MO
- St. Charles, MO
- Nashville, TN
Places Mentioned
- Superior Dairy
- Eddies World
- Rosenbruch World Wildlife Museum
- Two Rivers Park
- St. Charles Soda Museum
- Largest Superman Statue
Connect with Jacob
- Check out the Ex-Homeschoolers Club
- Subscribe on YouTube
- Follow along on Instagram
Or connect directly with Jacob on his personal Instagram
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