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Made in the West: American Innovation in Overlanding

What does overland innovation look like when it’s born in a Montana machine shop instead of an international trade show? In this Overland Journal Podcast episode, hosts Matt Scott and Sinuhe Xavier sit down with Matt Linder, CEO of Truckhouse, and Graeme MacPherson of Go Fast Campers—two leaders shaping the future of American-made expedition vehicles. From composite monocoques to ultra-light pop-up campers, both prove that thoughtful design and domestic manufacturing can still punch above their weight. This conversation explores the philosophy behind their products, the value of restraint in design, and why American ingenuity remains relevant in a space often dominated by imported gear.

Overland Journal Podcast Episode 247

Tune in using the link below, watch on our YouTube channel, or download the episode on your favorite podcast player.

Guest Bios

Matt Linder – CEO, Truckhouse

Matt Linder is the CEO of Truckhouse, a Nevada-based expedition vehicle manufacturer redefining what American-made overland travel can look like. With a background in both business and engineering, Matt helped launch Truckhouse as a way to bring aerospace-inspired composite construction to full-featured overland rigs. Under his leadership, the brand has earned a reputation for combining high-spec performance with clean, modern design—proving that domestic manufacturing can still lead the pack in innovation.

Graeme MacPherson – Founder, Go Fast Campers

Graeme MacPherson is the founder and design mind behind Go Fast Campers, a Montana-based company that builds ultralight, American-made pop-up campers for modern overlanders. Known for his brutally honest product philosophy and commitment to in-house manufacturing, Graeme has disrupted the camper industry by proving that quality doesn’t have to come at the cost of accessibility. He’s a vocal advocate for smart design, real-world testing, and the kind of engineering that makes sense in the field—not just on paper.

Host Bios

Sinuhe Xavier

The man who’s been there. Done that. He’s seen the inside of a jail in Colombia. Doesn’t brag about knowing how to handle firearms because they’re not his identity. There’s no over-compensation. Raced the Mexican 1000, then immediately drove from Panama to Guatemala in a 50-year-old Land Rover. He knows the underground fight clubs in London. Will navigate through the souk in Marrakech as if he was raised there. Can throw on a blazer and hang with the upper crusts at The Explorers Club. Then take off his jacket and help a driver change a tire outside the front door. Is as comfortable sleeping in a snow cave as an Aman. Automotive companies hire him to convey a premium interaction with the brand. He is the “man of unimpeachable experience.” @sinuhexavier

Matt Scott

Matthew is a leading expert in automotive adventure. He has extensively explored the world’s most remote places by 4WD and is considered an industry authority on overland travel. He is the only American to ever become an editor of a major Australian 4WD publication and has over 15 years of competitive auto racing experience. @mattexplore

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Ashley Giordano completed a 48,800-kilometer overland journey from Canada to Argentina with her husband, Richard, in their well-loved but antiquated Toyota pickup. On the zig-zag route south, she hiked craggy peaks in the Andes, discovered diverse cultures in 15 different countries, and filled her tummy with spicy ceviche, Baja fish tacos, and Argentinian Malbec. As Senior Editor at Overland Journal, you can usually find Ashley buried in a pile of travel books, poring over maps, or writing about the unsung women of overlanding history. @desktoglory_ash