Everyone has a reason for creating something or building something or doing something. I started writing this with that in mind, but that thought quickly changed as I’m writing this about myself. No longer am I trying to ghost write for another brand trying to pass it as my own. I’m not going to worry about buzzwords and key phrases to help create searchable content on this page. I’m just going to write and talk about what Overland OC means to me.
It’s more than just a lifestyle or a thing to do. The connection I have with being outdoors in the elements – you vs nature – excites and humbles me at the same time. To know that I am able to hangout at camp grilling food, making fire and telling ghost stories while creating a shelter for my family and I to sleep in at night is the daily challenge I enjoy. Was my load out efficient for this trip? Could I have packed less or should I have packed more. Did I plan for the weather changes, etc. The humbleness comes from knowing that we don’t need all these electronics, mobile devices, gourmet kitchens and multi bedroom homes when you are out in nature. During the day there is so much to do and it’s all low tech activities. As darkness falls you’re able to witness a night sky filled with stars which are always there for us to see when we look up, but they are drowned out by the city lights that illuminate our suburban jungles.
I’m not quite sure what it is that continues to make me want to go outdoors all the time, but I do know that I’m most happiest when I’m out camping with family and friends. The days and nights seem longer and time literally stops. Maybe that is why I am willing to take a chance and create this brand without any blueprint, mission statement or execution strategy. I want to approach Overland OC the same way I do when I prepare to go outdoors. I’ll make sure that the right gear is packed… food is prepped… and our shelter is good to go, but once we get to our destination — it’s all about going with the flow. Which brings me to the point of this story… I’m launching this brand during unprecedented and uncertain times. A global pandemic has hit our world and we’re all learning as we go. The phrase, “This is the new norm,” is constantly used to describe the unpredictable future that is ahead of us. And as luck would have it… this is when I decide to finally invest in myself and build something for me.
Startups are never easy and that’s what makes the journey so unique. The successes and failures help define yourself and your company. Heck, it creates character and that’s what should be at the center of any venture… character. Who will I become when I set off on this journey and who will I become after I complete this journey? For now, the ideas I have will be to bring my brand of marketing and creative thought process to overlanding. Rather than identify with the overland culture… I want to define myself within the scope of overlanding and then go outside of those boundaries to create my own definition. A few people that follow me on Instagram always comment that they enjoy seeing me share my knowledge in a video or through a comment or DM. I’ve been reading and researching then applying the things I learn to better my outdoor experiences, but it’s the ability to share those best practices with others that also brings me joy. Whenever I can enlighten or encourage anyone to go out camping… I get all warm and fuzzy inside. Call what you’d like, but it’s a natural high for me. And being out there with others such as family, friends and first time campers is a special treat. A campsite brings everyone together without distractions. It’s just you, nature, food x drinks and conversations. Let your imagination soar and disconnect from our day to day routines. I think for now… I will leave it at that. I’m sure things will pop in my head and I’ll either add to this story or edit it down. This is all part of documenting the path or paths that this brand will take me and how I incorporate myself into the culture of overlanding and come out the other side.
Thanks for reading!
— Steve