Indie Roadtrip Application
FAQ
General Roadtrip Questions
The Application Process
Technical Questions for Selected Indie Roadtrip Teams
The Interview Process
Post-trip Questions
The Application Process
Technical Questions for Selected Indie Roadtrip Teams
The Interview Process
Post-trip Questions
General Roadtrip Questions
How are Indie Roadtrips different from the trips in the Big Green RV's?
Roadtrip Nation's Green RV Roadtrips occur during the summer in the RVs and are filmed by our crew, to be produced by Roadtrip Productions.
In contrast, check out Roadtrip Nation's D.I.Y. roadtrips, the Indie Roadtrip program: Hit the road on your own time, on your own route and with your own mode of transportation.
We've sent individuals on roadtrips across the world and in their very own backyard. The Indie Roadtrips are our way of reaching more students and getting back to the grassroots feel of the original roadtrip, "The Open Road". The roadtrippers themselves, and not our crew, document the roadtrip through film, photos and/or blogs. In return the roadtrippers receive a grant to help out with some of the trips expenses.
The Indie Roadtrips are shared with others via photos, blogs, and video, on Roadtrip Nation's website.
In contrast, check out Roadtrip Nation's D.I.Y. roadtrips, the Indie Roadtrip program: Hit the road on your own time, on your own route and with your own mode of transportation.
We've sent individuals on roadtrips across the world and in their very own backyard. The Indie Roadtrips are our way of reaching more students and getting back to the grassroots feel of the original roadtrip, "The Open Road". The roadtrippers themselves, and not our crew, document the roadtrip through film, photos and/or blogs. In return the roadtrippers receive a grant to help out with some of the trips expenses.
The Indie Roadtrips are shared with others via photos, blogs, and video, on Roadtrip Nation's website.
The Application Process
Are Indie Roadtrips paid for?
Think of an Indie trip as a roadtrip you would take-- with or without us. You pay for gas, food, souvenirs, and anything else you naturally would on a roadtrip. We'll help you out with a grant to motivate and help make your trip a reality.
How much money do we get with the grant?
That depends on your participation.
There are two levels of participation for Indie Roadtrip grants:
You can photo and blog about your trip and interviews (no filming required.) This grant is generally about $300-400.
Or you can apply to photo, blog, film, and edit. This requires you to document your trip with a video camera, and you will edit your footage into five to seven minute segments. If selected to be an edit team, you will be coached on how to edit in an Roadtrip Nation style to showcase on our website. This grant is generally $700.
There are two levels of participation for Indie Roadtrip grants:
You can photo and blog about your trip and interviews (no filming required.) This grant is generally about $300-400.
Or you can apply to photo, blog, film, and edit. This requires you to document your trip with a video camera, and you will edit your footage into five to seven minute segments. If selected to be an edit team, you will be coached on how to edit in an Roadtrip Nation style to showcase on our website. This grant is generally $700.
Can you send me back my application tapes/video after you review them?
Sorry, application materials are not returned. So if you'd like to keep your footage, please make a copy and send us the original.
Hey! You used to offer trips where we can film and have Roadtrip Productions produce it, and now that is gone! What gives?
Yes, we did. We are still producing past Indie Roadtrips and do not have the bandwith to edit all Indie Roadtrips. So for now, we are only accepting teams that will edit their footage themselves for the larger grant, or you can simply photo and blog.
I see online that you had indie roadtrippers go to New Zealand and Australia in a Green Van. What is that and how do I apply?
Every once in awhile we have special Indie Roadtrip Opportunities, outside of our normal grants. The Australia trips, New Zealand trips, and State Farm Indie Roadtrips are just that. So keep an eye on our application page for news of these types of trips. We never know when they will pop up!
When do we get the grant?
After the roadtrip is completed and you return all of your required material to Roadtrip Nation you will receive the grant.
What is the required material?
A completed online roadtrip profile, at least five blogs, photos of your trip, and three completed interviews with returned releases.
For teams that film and edit, more instructions will follow if accepted for the grant.
For teams that film and edit, more instructions will follow if accepted for the grant.
When will I know if I've been accepted for the Indie Roadtrip Grant Program?
We'll try our best to get back to you ASAP. Please give us at least two weeks to go through your application.
Who should I talk to if I have a question or problem?
Ray, our Roadtrip Director. He is your mentor and your best friend while out on the road. His job is to make sure you understand everything required to have the best Indie Roadtrip experience possible. Even if you have a question about the application, e-mail him. He has roadtripped many times himself, so he knows the ropes. E-mail him at Ray@roadtripnation.com.
Can we travel in a Green RV for an Indie Trip?
You can travel in your own Green RV, but unfortunately not one of ours.
As much as we would be stoked to have everyone driving around in Green RV's exploring and having a good time, our Green RVs are currently only for our filmed documentary series: Roadtrip Nation. But maybe one day... you never know.
As much as we would be stoked to have everyone driving around in Green RV's exploring and having a good time, our Green RVs are currently only for our filmed documentary series: Roadtrip Nation. But maybe one day... you never know.
Can I do an Indie Roadtrip internationally?
Yes, international Roadtrips are awesome!
How do I apply?
It is as easy as filling out an online application: www.roadtripnation.com/participate/indie.php
Be sure to select the Indie Roadtrip application, not the Green RV application.
Be sure to select the Indie Roadtrip application, not the Green RV application.
Deadlines?
We accept applications no more than three months out and no fewer than three weeks prior to your expected departure date.
Please be aware that the Indie Roadtrip application closes down every year when we have no more Grants available. This usually translates to the application closing in the late fall and opening back up in the early spring.
Please be aware that the Indie Roadtrip application closes down every year when we have no more Grants available. This usually translates to the application closing in the late fall and opening back up in the early spring.
Are my "proposed interviews" and "proposed schedule" final?
NOT AT ALL! This is simply a way for us to get an idea of where your interests lie and whom you would potentially like to talk to.
Reality is you will change your mind, you won't be able to line up those three interviews, or your schedule will vary. No worries.
Reality is you will change your mind, you won't be able to line up those three interviews, or your schedule will vary. No worries.
Do I have to do this over the summer?
No! Unlike the Green RV Roadtrips, the Indie Roadtrips take place whenever you want, for however long you want. Whatever works for you and with your schedule.
Do I have to drive around the entire country?
Once again, NO!
You're in charge of your Indie Roadtrip route, and can decide what cities/states you'd like to visit, and whom you'd like to interview in those locations.
Keep in mind you can do this in your own backyard, or as far away as another country. That is the beauty of Indie.
You're in charge of your Indie Roadtrip route, and can decide what cities/states you'd like to visit, and whom you'd like to interview in those locations.
Keep in mind you can do this in your own backyard, or as far away as another country. That is the beauty of Indie.
If I do go abroad is it acceptable to have my interview in a foreign language?
This one is tough. Yes, but there are some things to keep in mind:
If you are filming and your piece will be edited, you will need to translate it for our audience, or else that particular interview may not be used.
If you are filming and your piece will be edited, you will need to translate it for our audience, or else that particular interview may not be used.
Is it pointless if I just do it in my state?
Not at all! Traveling and talking to people around your home state can be an incredibly eye-opening experience. Explore towns you've never stopped in before and talk with people that spark your interest.
How many other people receive grants to go on Indie Roadtrips?
That depends on a few factors, but we usually have 1-2 Indie teams out on the road at any given time. The most competitive time to receive grants is during summer and spring breaks. But don't let that discourage you-- a spot may be waiting just for you!
What do you look for when selecting people for Indie Roadtrips?
We look for energy, drive, authenticity, people with the ability to articulate their thoughts, and those with an observant eye... We want to send people out on the road who are excited to push themselves out of their comfort zone and talk with total strangers about their lives. We want to get behind Indie roadtrippers that will do everything they can to capture every aspect of their road experience - from the interviews, to their thoughts and feelings, and those fun little moments on the road.
If we are filming and editing our own piece, when will we see our roadtrip online?
It takes time for things to get up online and we have a process to get it there. Please be patient with our web team and we will get it up as soon as we can.
Do I have to interview famous people?
Not at all! Interview anyone who you think will have a good story to tell. Some of the most interesting interviews we've had have been with people we'd never heard of before, like a Louisiana truck driver, a Maine lobsterman, and a Wyoming rodeo clown! Interview people who inspire you and who love what they do. That is what matters.
Are there specific start/stop dates?
No. Some Indie trips have lasted two days, some have lasted two months! But we'll ask that you give us your return date before you leave so we can plan accordingly.
Do we have to travel by RV or by car?
For the Indie Roadtrips, you'll be required to provide your own transportation. If you've got your own RV, that's cool! If you've got a car, awesome! If you want to travel around via public transportation, go for it! Get around however you can, that is the beauty of Indie.
How many people must be on a team?
Doesn't matter to us. You can go solo, or you can pack five friends into a van. If it is an unusually large team, be sure to e-mail us with a heads up.
Do they all have to be in college?
Nope. Indie is an all-ages opportunity.
Are all-female or all-male teams okay?
Certainly. And co-ed is good too.
Does the whole team have to be at every interview?
No... However, we prefer that everyone is present.
Can I interview someone who a past Roadtrip Nation Roadtripper already interviewed?
Try to interview people who haven't been interviewed by us before...unless that person is stoked on getting interviewed again! Then go for it!
What does it take to get my footage on PBS or in the book?
Right now, Indie Roadtrips are shared on our online community and not on PBS.
But as a growing company, there is always the possibility that some incredibly engaging interviews, insightful thoughts, and well-edited footage would impress our production team to reconsider. So aim for it!
Technical Questions for Selected Indie Roadtrip Teams
I don't have a camcorder. How do I get my hands on one?
For $300 - $1000, you can buy yourself a camcorder (which we definitely believe is a good investment!). If purchasing one is out of your budget, try borrowing one from a friend or from the film department at your school. We use the HD-HC9 Sony Camcorders. But check out bestbuy.com for low-price camcorders.
If none of those options work for you, we may be able to loan you some filmmaking equipment. Contact us for more info.
If none of those options work for you, we may be able to loan you some filmmaking equipment. Contact us for more info.
Does it have to be a digital footage?
At the moment, we only accept footage in mini-DV format or the final edited project.
Does it have to be a professional camera? Or will my handheld work?
Your handheld camcorder will definitely work. Don't worry about making the next Oscar-winning documentary! We like gritty, grassroots filmmaking-- as long as the audio is good! Make sure your camcorder has an audio outlet to plug a lavaliere microphone into.
Speaking of mics... if you don't already have one, you may want to look into investing in a lav mic, or a shot-put mic. Without audio, we have nothing.
Before you take off on your Indie Roadtrip, you'll be required to have a phone chat with our Roadtrip Director, Kristin. We'll guide you step-by-step through the filming process, and you'll get the chance to ask us anything you want about going on an Indie Roadtrip!
Speaking of mics... if you don't already have one, you may want to look into investing in a lav mic, or a shot-put mic. Without audio, we have nothing.
Before you take off on your Indie Roadtrip, you'll be required to have a phone chat with our Roadtrip Director, Kristin. We'll guide you step-by-step through the filming process, and you'll get the chance to ask us anything you want about going on an Indie Roadtrip!
What about sound?
For our purposes here at Roadtrip Nation, sound is absolutely the #1 most important element for filmmaking. If we can't hear the audio from your interviews, we can't use the footage and/or you will have nothing to edit! So, we strongly suggest you use an external mic when filming your interviews.
Do I need a tripod?
You don't need one, but it's definitely a big help. If you can't get a hold of one for your interviews, try setting a camera on a chair or table so that you can get a steady shot of the leader.
If I don't get accepted for an Roadtrip Nation Roadtrip, can I apply for an Indie Roadtrip?
Absolutely! In fact, we strongly encourage it.
The Interview Process
How do I "coldcall" these people? How do I get their numbers?
Ask your friends, look in the phonebook, research on the Internet...
A good tip is to locate the generic phone number for their place of business, and then talk to whomever you can to try to get a hold of the person you want to interview.
If you can't find a phone number anywhere, try looking for an e-mail address on the Internet. If you can't find their direct e-mail, look for a contact e-mail for their place of business.
Not to worry, all official Indie Roadtrip teams will be discussing this in a pre-trip phone call with Roadtrip Nation staff.
A good tip is to locate the generic phone number for their place of business, and then talk to whomever you can to try to get a hold of the person you want to interview.
If you can't find a phone number anywhere, try looking for an e-mail address on the Internet. If you can't find their direct e-mail, look for a contact e-mail for their place of business.
Not to worry, all official Indie Roadtrip teams will be discussing this in a pre-trip phone call with Roadtrip Nation staff.
What if people I coldcall say "no"?
When booking interviews, you'll undoubtedly have to deal with a lot of rejection. Don't sweat! Keep researching and contacting people. You can even ask the people who have said no if they know anyone whom might be interested.
Be sure to convey your desire to seek advice and the authenticity of Roadtrip Nation's cause. People generally warm up to the honest intentions of a student just looking to talk to someone to get some advice on life.
Be sure to convey your desire to seek advice and the authenticity of Roadtrip Nation's cause. People generally warm up to the honest intentions of a student just looking to talk to someone to get some advice on life.
They won't talk to me!
Don't be discouraged! Try another day, or another way. Nathan didn't book that interview with Sandra Day O'Connor by getting scared and giving up when they first rejected him. If at first you fail, try again!
How long should each interview be?
Aim for about an hour. If it's shorter than that, don't worry; some of the best interviews were only a short-and-sweet thirty minutes. But, if you can, keep the conversation going for a full hour.
How should I plan my trip so that I have enough travel and interview time?
Plan everything ahead! Create a detailed schedule for your trip before you hit the road. And don't overbook yourself! Traveling and interviewing are both time and energy-consuming activities. Aim for one to two interviews per day, and try to allot your team a two-hour block of time for each interview (for set-up, interview, break-down, b-roll, etc.)
Where should we hold the interview?
Try to pick a location that is convenient and comfortable for the person being interviewed. If possible, try to select a setting that reflects their career/lifestyle (i.e. their office, their home.) In terms of filming, it's best to conduct the interview in a well-lit (but not back-lit) area that visually showcases what they do.
I don't know how to film an interview!?
Don't stress! We've have a filmmaking guide just for you! If you are a team that is filming we'll teach you how to film on the road, how to frame shots during an interview, how to mic someone, etc... We'll show you everything you need to know to capture the experience well.
How many interviews do I need to film?
All teams need to do at least three interviews.
If you are a team that is going to edit your piece and/or film, you will need at least three to be filmed to receive the grant.
How many should we do a day?
We suggest one to two interviews per day. Be sure to schedule enough time to get to-and-from the locations. You never want to be late to an interview because another lasted longer than you thought.
Should I write down the answers during the interview?
Taking notes during may make the interview seem too formal or journalistic. We just want you to sit back, ask some great questions, and enjoy a good story. The key to a great interview is that you LISTEN, take what they are saying in and respond accordingly. Make it a conversation.
Should they "leave a message" for us (like how leaders do in the RV)?
Definitely! Many of our Green RV and Indie Roadtrippers have "team traditions" on the road. For instance, the Green RV teams have everyone they interview sign the ceiling of the RV with some last words of advice. Some Indie roadtrippers bring along an Roadtrip Nation poster for their interviewees to sign. Feel free to create your own "team tradition"!
Post-trip Questions
Can I make copies of my tapes?
If you'd like copies of your footage, you'll have to make them yourself before you send to Roadtrip Nation Please send us the originals.
Can I edit the footage myself?
If you are chosen for one of the filming/editing trips, you will be editing it yourself! You will need a little editing experience and access to iMovie, Final Cut Pro, or Windows Media Maker.
Please refer to the "How to Edit" in the Participate section for more info on editing.
Please refer to the "How to Edit" in the Participate section for more info on editing.
Do I have to transcribe these interviews?
You don't need to transcribe each interview. But blogging about each interview is required!
Can I do an Indie Roadtrip more than once?
Sorry, at this time they're a one-shot deal.
Can I get college credit for doing something like this?
That depends on your school. Contact your academic counselor for more information regarding college credit. If they agree to it, we can provide your University with certification that you successfully completed and documented it.
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