She has camped, vanlifed, and now lives in an RV. She road-tripped and camped through the Southwest and Pacific Northwest, discovering some of the most inspiring places to set up a laptop – from the vast deserts of New Mexico to the serene beaches of the Oregon coast to the heart of Washington’s ancient forests. These experiences revealed the diversity of our nation’s cultures, the power of solitude, and the necessity of carving out moments to reconnect with nature. Inspired by these lessons, Simone realized she hadn’t truly explored her own backyard – the American South. That’s when her journey shifted inward, leading her back home to rediscover the South’s rich and layered stories.
Today, Simone is exploring Appalachian culture, the heritage of the Gullah Geechee people, the traditions of the Eastern Band of Cherokee, and the vibrant expressions of Indigenous, Black, Asian, and Latinx communities across the South. Her new outdoor adventures travel the Alabama and Georgia Black Belt, Blue Ridge mountains, Southern cowhand and rodeo life, and vibrant cultural festivals. Simone immerses herself in the resilience, artistry, and beauty that defines the region. These experiences deepen her understanding of the interconnectedness between people, places, and culture, directly informing her work.