Next-Gen Power: Raylea Smith Designs System

At just 21 years old, Raylea Smith may be the youngest person to ever take the main stage at the National Alliance RV Owners Rally—but don’t let her age fool you. With years of behind-the-scenes experience at Big Beard Battery, the family-run lithium power company founded by her parents, Todd and Stephanie Henson, Raylea knows more about off-grid energy than most seasoned RVers.

In her first-ever rally presentation, Raylea delivered a confident, engaging, and informative talk about RV lithium battery upgrades, the basics of solar charging, and how modern RVers can gain true independence by understanding their power systems.

A Family Legacy—and a Personal Passion

Growing up in the Henson household meant Raylea was surrounded by solar panels, inverters, lithium cells, and enough Victron blue to rival the Texas sky. As Todd and Stephanie built Big Beard Battery into a national name in RV energy, Raylea tagged along to events, helped in the shop, and learned the language of watts, amps, and volts.

Her presentation at the Alliance Rally wasn’t just a novelty—it was a clear reflection of the hands-on knowledge she’s picked up through years of immersion in the RV lifestyle and the booming world of lithium power systems.

What Raylea Taught the Crowd

With humor and clarity, Raylea broke down the basics of:

• Why lithium batteries (like Big Beard Battery’s LiFePO₄ systems) outperform traditional lead-acid setups in weight, efficiency, and lifespan

• What components make up a complete RV solar system, including charge controllers, inverters, and monitors

• The real meaning of “off-grid capable,” and how to plan your system based on usage, location, and budget

• The importance of doing it right—including proper wire sizing, fusing, and installation best practices

  
  

She even fielded live questions from the audience, calmly addressing everything from inverter sizing to boondocking strategies, all while making the tech approachable for beginners and experienced RVers alike.

More Than a Presentation—A Milestone

For Todd and Stephanie Henson, watching their daughter speak at a national rally was more than just a proud parent moment—it was the continuation of a mission they’ve poured their lives into: educating RVers and empowering them to take charge of their power needs.

Raylea’s presentation is proof that the next generation of RVers is ready, willing, and incredibly capable. She’s not just talking about energy independence—she’s living it.

Want to Learn More?

If you’re ready to design your own off-grid system (or just want to understand your battery monitor better), check out Big Beard Battery’s DIY resources and the hands-on Solar Clinic.

Because no matter your age—or voltage—it’s never too early (or late) to unplug.