Inspiring Conversations with Aaron Hersom of Van Damme Conversions

Today we’d like to introduce you to Aaron Hersom.

Hi Aaron, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
As a New Zealander, I’ve always had a deep connection to exploration and adventure. My journey started on the water, where I spent 15 years crossing oceans, visiting over 65 countries, and absorbing the lessons that only the sea can teach patience, adaptability, and a respect for the unknown. There’s something about being out on the ocean, where the horizon stretches out endlessly, that makes you feel small but also incredibly free. Those years taught me to appreciate the beauty of navigating the unpredictable and adapting to whatever comes my way.

Eventually, my adventures brought me to America, where I shifted my focus from the ocean to the land. I found that same spirit of adventure in van conversions. These vans offer a new kind of freedom the freedom of the open road, of going wherever your curiosity takes you. It’s like exploring uncharted territory, but with wheels instead of sails. And now, I get to build that experience for others. I create vans that are more than just functional; they’re a means for people to connect with nature, escape the everyday, and rediscover what adventure means to them.

For me, success has always been about surrounding myself with the right people. Whether it’s on a boat, in the workshop, or in my personal life, I believe the people you choose to be around either lift you up or hold you back. I’ve always sought out those who challenge me, support me, and inspire me to push myself further. That philosophy has been key in both my personal growth and the growth of my business. It’s not just about creating great vans it’s about building a team and a community of people who share that same adventurous spirit and drive for excellence.

Through it all, I remain committed to that sense of discovery that shaped me on the water. Whether I’m building a van for someone to escape into the wilderness or just creating a space where they can find peace, that spirit of adventure is at the heart of everything I do. Every project is an opportunity to infuse that same passion and freedom into a new journey for someone else.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Like any journey, mine has had its share of challenges. Moving from the world of being on the water to van conversions wasn’t without obstacles. One of the hardest parts was finding the balance between maintaining the high standards I set for my work and keeping up with the growing demand. Scaling a business while preserving the integrity of the craftsmanship is a challenge in itself. On top of that, merging creativity with client expectations transforming someone’s vision into a tangible, functional space required constant learning and adaptation. It’s a lot like sailing through rough waters you need to adjust your course, stay focused, and be ready for the unexpected.

We’ve been impressed with Van Damme Conversions, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At my business, we’re all about creating high-end, custom van conversions. It’s not just about building a van; it’s about crafting something that reflects our clients’ vision and the life they want to live. These vans are more than vehicles they’re tools for exploration, for getting lost in nature, and for finding new places to disconnect and recharge.

What makes my work unique is the spirit of adventure I infuse into every project. After spending years exploring the world on the water, I’ve brought that same passion for discovery into my van conversions. My vans are more than just vehicles they’re tools for freedom. They allow people to disconnect, explore uncharted roads, and embrace the thrill of the unknown. I strive to build spaces that are functional yet beautiful, reflecting each owner’s lifestyle and love for adventure. Whether it’s through high-quality materials, thoughtful design, or attention to detail, every van I create serves as a vessel for exploration, much like the boats I once sailed.

What sets us apart is the attention to detail and the care we put into each build. I want every van to be unique, functional, and built to last. We use the best materials, and the designs are always personalized to fit the client’s specific needs. Whether they’re an adventurer, a remote worker, or someone who just loves the idea of a home on wheels, we make sure the van fits their lifestyle.

I’m really proud of the quality we deliver and the relationships we build with our clients. These projects aren’t one size fits all they’re as unique as the people we build them for. It’s more than just a conversion it’s a way of life, an opportunity for freedom, and a way to reconnect with the world around you. That’s what I want people to know about my brand. We’re not just building vans we’re building experiences.

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Finding a mentor, for me, has always been about putting yourself out there and being curious. It’s not enough to just wait for opportunities you’ve got to go out and create them. Surround yourself with people who challenge you and help you see things differently. It’s about finding someone who inspires you to grow, not just professionally but personally too.

One thing that’s worked well for me is staying authentic and asking questions. Being curious opens up a lot of doors because people appreciate genuine interest. I’ve made some of my best connections just by being really interested in what others are doing, even if it’s outside my industry. That curiosity, paired with the willingness to step outside your comfort zone, can lead to some amazing relationships.

You’ve also got to be willing to make the first move and reach out, even if it feels uncomfortable at first. Some of my best mentors and connections came from taking that initiative. People respect honesty and passion, and when you approach them with genuine curiosity, building those connections becomes natural.

In the end, finding the right people those who resonate with your values and push you to be better is key. It’s all about growth, both in business and in life.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.vandammeconversions.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/van_damme_conversions/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VanDammeConversions

Image Credits
Sean Diaz