What happens when two New Yorkers trade apartment life for a tiny house, then a converted school bus, and eventually five acres in rural Missouri?
In this episode, Ryan sits down with Ryan Marcus and Cheryl Marcus from KVC Academy to hear their incredible journey from New York City to Lebanon, Missouri. The couple shares how a documentary on minimalism changed their lives, leading them to build a tiny house, live off-grid, convert a school bus into their home, and spend years chasing a simpler life.
Along the way, they talk about surviving harsh winters, living with cats in 100 square feet, the realities of off-grid life, and the lessons they learned about gratitude, relationships, and finding balance.
They also discuss how that journey eventually brought them to Missouri, their work with KVC Academy, and the important role the organization plays in supporting students with special needs and behavioral challenges.
This conversation is funny, heartfelt, and full of unexpected stories about adventure, marriage, minimalism, and discovering what truly matters.
Topics include:
• Minimalism and tiny house living
• Converting a school bus into a home
• Off-grid life in Missouri
• Marriage and relationships under unusual circumstances
• Returning to society after years of simple living
• KVC Academy and special education
• Why Lebanon, Missouri became home