Women's Health August 15, 2026 0 Comments

How This Audiobook Walking Club is Turning Strolls into Strength, Sisterhood, and Surprising Book Discoveries—You Won’t Believe What Happens Next!

Ever hit that wall where your 9-to-5 just doesn’t spark joy anymore? Stephanie Pao definitely did — stuck in marketing gigs that left her uninspired, she found herself daydreaming of something way more thrilling. Here’s a curveball for you: What if you could combine your love for books with a road trip? Well, that thought took off big time when Stephanie spotted a vintage VW truck cruising by the beach. Suddenly, a lightbulb moment — what about a portable romance book truck? But she didn’t stop there; blending her childhood love for audiobooks with walking became the next chapter in her adventure — literally launching an audiobook walking club that’s bringing readers together, headphones on, hearts open, and feet moving. It’s like a bookish meetup on wheels that fuels both the mind and the soul — proving that sometimes, the best way to find your path is to create it yourself. Curious how Stephanie turned frustration into fulfillment while helping women connect through stories and steps? LEARN MORE

When book lover Stephanie Pao’s job left her feeling unfulfilled, she took a leap of faith and started a portable romance book truck and launched an audiobook walking club. Not only is she now living her dream, but she’s helping women to meet, read, walk and make new friendships. Here, she shares her story with Woman’s World.

“There’s got to be a better way,” Stephanie Pao sighed, frustrated after another long day at work.

She’d been in the marketing field for many years, but was always dealing in products and services that she never felt passionate about. Maybe one day I can market something that excites me.

Giving it some deep thought, Stephanie zeroed in on what she would love to be doing. I’ve always loved books! What if I opened a bookstore? she pondered.

Then one day, she was walking along the beach and saw a vintage VW truck. It sparked an idea. I could get a truck and have a portable bookstore! her spirit cried.

Expanding the dream

She soon found a vintage VW pickup on Facebook Marketplace that was already restored by the seller. He was so excited about the idea of it being a bookstore that he even helped build and design the bookshelves.

After stocking up on books from distributors, she was ready to open her business, which she named The Fleuria.

She began posting about her journey on social media and her website and sharing dates and locations. Then Stephanie started parking the romance bookstore on wheels all over Los Angeles and Long Beach.

When the first event attracted over 100 people, she knew she was on to something.

The Fleuria has given book lovers new opportunities to connect and build lasting friendshipsStephanie Pao

As the popularity grew, Stephanie got another idea. An audiobook walking club could help people meet new friends while walking along the beach listening to their favorite books, she brainstormed.

Stephanie used to love audiobooks when she was a kid, borrowing them from the library on cassette tapes. During the pandemic, walking became one of her favorite pastimes, so the thought of combining the two seemed like a win.

She began promoting the Audiobook Walking Club on her website by taking RSVPs. Before she knew it, nearly 100 folks signed up. She was shocked and excited for the new venture. This is so amazing, Stephanie thought to herself.

A whole new chapter

Now, Stephanie hosts as many as three walks per month in the South Bay, Redondo Beach, Long Beach and Hollywood areas.

Those who sign up enjoy the free experience by meeting up for coffee beforehand, then heading out in a line with headphones on to listen to their own audiobook while enjoying the fresh air, exercise and companionship.

The Audiobook Walking Club now has nearly 200 members who walk with StephanieStephanie Pao

“It’s a nice little mental escape,” one woman says with a smile.

“I’ve been into audiobooks for years, so this is great!” another fan exclaims.

“I’ve read over 750 audiobooks now!”

As another perk, Stephanie hosts some of her favorite authors for events, book release parties, panel discussions, book fairs and dinners.

Her plans include opening a stationery bookstore out of an Airstream trailer, which is already in the works, and expanding the Audiobook Walking Club around the country, with other hosts leading walks in other cities.

“It’s never too late to try something new and different,” beams Stephanie. “I’ve never felt more fulfilled, and I’ve met the most amazing readers, walkers and authors along the way. I’ve gained so much confidence and joy, and I’ve learned your job can actually be fun!”