The Power of Customization: A Sportsmobile Journey

When it comes to van life, customization, quality, and usability are at the core of creating a vehicle that feels like home. For one particular customer, these values became especially important during the build of her Sportsmobile, as she sought a solution that fit her active, yet practical lifestyle. I had the privilege to visit with Shannon M. In this interview, we explore the story behind her decision to purchase a Sportsmobile and how it has transformed her personal and professional life.

A Perfect Fit for a Unique Lifestyle

When asked about her decision to purchase a Sportsmobile, Shannon explained that the idea of van life first caught her attention during the COVID-19 pandemic. “At the time, I was dating someone who was obsessed with van life, and he showed me all these videos of people out there living their best lives,” she shared. As a single mother of three boys, she was looking for a solution that would fit into her life seamlessly.

She emphasized that her needs were unique: “I’m not handy, so I needed something bulletproof, top-quality, dependable, and safe.” Extensive online research led her to Sportsmobile, where she discovered the company’s long-standing reputation for quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. This was key in her decision to move forward with a custom van.

Crafting a Van to Meet Every Need

Having built homes in the past, Shannon was keenly aware of the importance of design and customization in creating a space that was both functional and aesthetically pleasing. “I believe things can be both functional and beautiful, and that’s what I was going for,” she explained.

Her van was tailored to meet her lifestyle needs down to the smallest details. With features like pull-out trash and recycling bins, a dedicated paper towel dispenser, and ample storage, the vehicle was designed with usability in mind. Sportsmobile’s extensive customization options allowed her to choose a style that reflected her personal taste while ensuring the van met all her functional requirements.

Shannon’s background in working with clients in her professional life also played a role in her design choices: “The space needs to feel warm, clean, and well-designed because it’s an extension of personality and intention. When people feel welcomed and at ease, they know by extension that I care about them.” This philosophy carried over into her van design, making it feel more like a welcoming living room than just a mode of transportation.

The Appeal of Custom Over Ready-Built Solutions

Despite the abundance of ready-built Class B motorhomes available, Shannon knew from the beginning that a custom process was the right path for her. “I really didn’t look at traditional Class B motorhomes. I knew my needs and desires were unique, and I wanted a custom process.”

One of the key benefits of choosing a Sportsmobile was the mobility and versatility of the Sprinter platform. “I love that I can drive around town, park in somewhat normal places, and it’s not obvious that someone lives in the van. You have to be in the know to realize it’s more than just a delivery truck.” This sense of discretion provided an extra layer of safety and peace of mind.

A Backup Plan for Peace of Mind

One of the unexpected benefits of owning a fully equipped van was its use as a backup in times of need. Shannon lives in Atlanta, where she experienced a recent storm, Hurricane Helene. “I made sure the van was fully charged, and although I didn’t end up needing it, it gave me peace of mind knowing I had a place where I could charge our devices and keep food in the refrigerator if something happened.”

Recreation and Exploration: A Van for Every Adventure

While her van serves as a functional tool for work and as a family backup, it also plays a huge role in her recreational activities. From regional camping trips to music festivals, Shannon has dabbled in various adventures with her Sportsmobile. “I really enjoy the North Carolina mountains – where I can be off the grid but also enjoy the nearby city centers with their restaurants, shops, and cultural experiences.”

She also uses the van to tailgate at football games and even lets her middle son take it to robotics tournaments. “He loves the freedom and flexibility, and he feels super cool having his own place to stay.”

The van has also served as an ideal spot for watching her son’s sports games. “I’ll park it at the field, prop up on my pillows, and watch the game in comfort while multitasking. I can work from the van without having to leave my cozy space.”

A Healing Journey: How Trauma Therapy and Community Resilience Come Together

In the wake of a tragedy, the path to healing can seem overwhelming. However, with the right support and tools, individuals can find strength not only to move forward but to emerge stronger. 

Following the shooting, Shannon was part of a volunteer effort to provide counseling services to the faculty and staff at a Georga area  High School.  Her van provided a safe and soothing place to provide Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocess (EMDR) treatment.  It was so impactful, that she was asked to come back with her van to continue providing services to the staff.  Her van provided a safe place, away from the direct environment where the shooting took place, but still close enough to make treatment convenient and accessible.

The Importance of Community Support

For the individuals impacted by the tragedy, the presence of a strong and loving community is a source of incredible support. “There’s been so much wonder and beauty… to see how much love there is in this community,” Shannon observes. Despite the trauma, the community’s response has been inspiring, characterized by strength and a collective determination to heal together.

Finding Meaning Through a Survivor’s Mission

In the aftermath of trauma, individuals often search for meaning, seeking to understand how the experience fits into their lives and what it means for their future. This search, known as a “survivor’s mission,” is a crucial part of the healing process. As the therapist explains, “When a bad thing happens like this, how do you make personal meaning out of it?” This reflection helps survivors transform their experiences into sources of strength, empowering them to move forward with purpose.

The Therapeutic Power of the Outdoors

Beyond the therapy sessions, Shannon reflects on the personal benefits of having a custom van, calling it “a great little escape and a haven.” Whether it’s for work or relaxation, the ability to step away from the routine and connect with nature offers a mental reset that supports overall well-being.

The van itself becomes a symbol of personal freedom and resilience, allowing Shannon to find peace in both work and life. “I love my van. It makes me happy every time I get into it,”, underscoring the therapeutic effect of having a space to retreat to after engaging in emotionally intense work.

At Sportsmobile, we feel it is an honor and a privilege to have the opportunity to work with amazing people like Shannon.