Advertise on podcast: The Camp Owners Podcast

Find all the show notes at https://gocamp.pro/ownerspod/work-smarter From Overwhelm to Organized: Building Systems That Actually WorkRunning a camp is demanding, but it doesn’t have to be exhausting. Your host Howie and guest host Jordanna from the Day Camp Pod, are joined by systems expert Victoria Golden of Polaris Solutions to explore how camp owners and directors can work smarter, not harder. From taming expense tracking to building task and project management systems that actually stick, this conversation is packed with practical, real world ideas you can apply right away. Victoria brings a fresh, thoughtful perspective on using technology and systems to reduce friction while still preserving the personal, relationship driven heart of camp. You’ll hear honest insights about change management, staff buy in and protecting institutional knowledge. If you’re feeling stretched thin and looking for smarter ways to run your camp more effectively, this episode is a must listen! 03:17 Victoria Golden's Journey and Expertise08:39 Challenges in Camp Operations11:17 Implementing Efficient Systems14:53 Succession Planning and Institutional Knowledge17:33 Navigating Camp Management Software18:44 Adapting to New Technologies25:38 The Importance of Relationships in Camp Management28:43 Challenges in Implementing Changes at Camp29:28 Building Trust and Buy-In from Staff30:36 Effective Communication and Problem Solving32:11 Optimizing Camp Operations: Tools and Techniques33:54 The Importance of Task Management Systems35:14 Balancing Efficiency with Personal Touch44:01 Reflecting and Iterating on Systems47:15 Rapid Fire Questions with Victoria49:21 Connecting with Victoria and Final Thoughts- Your Hosts:Howie Grossinger - Co-owner/Director - Camp Robin Hood, Partner - Camp Walden & Madawaska CampsJordanna Grossinger, Director - Camp Robin Hood- Your Guests:Victoria Golden - Managing Director - Polaris Solutions- Thanks to our sponsors:WhereaboutsYour mission is campers. Ours is making their experience coordinated and connected.  Whereabouts is the only camper management system that keeps Parents, Admin, and Staff in sync in real time — so every camper’s day runs with confidence, clarity, and care. Check them out whereaboutsapp.io Want easier hiring and stronger teams? Set up intentional systems to retain your best people and consistently recruit passionate, high‑fit staff—then watch results compound.Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis. Can your camp take another year of staff strain, long days, and parent communication headaches? Put systems in place now to retain returners and recruit high‑fit staff so the season bends, not breaks.Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis.

https://gocamp.pro/ownerspod/inside-out How Nelson Strickland Uses Design Theory, Candor and Learning Circles to Strengthen Camp Culture What if you approached your camp the way a designer approaches a space - intentionally, thoughtfully and with the end experience always in mind? In this episode Howie Grossinger and Kelly Schuna are joined by Nelson Strickland for a conversation on how design theory can transform both camper and staff experiences. Nelson shares practical frameworks for creating spaces of candor, building strong learning circles and identifying the weak links that quietly hold camps back. You’ll also hear actionable insights on staff recruitment, retention and how to balance approachability with clear leadership. This episode is a must listen for camp owners and leaders who want to move beyond “the way we’ve always done it” and design a camp culture that truly works. 04:51 Nelson's Camp Journey11:44 Design Theory in Camp Management25:59 Creating Spaces for Candor33:46 The Importance of Staff Connection38:12 Empowering Leadership Teams39:02 Balancing Autonomy and Wisdom39:31 The Participation Principle40:03 Applying Candor in Camp Operations42:16 Internship Programs for Camp Staff45:29 Accessibility in Camp Leadership48:08 Staff Recruitment Strategies49:28 Embracing New Perspectives in Camp52:51 The Power of Saying No54:02 The Role of Technology in Camps01:00:42 The Importance of Learning Circles- Your Hosts:Howie Grossinger - Co-owner/Director - Camp Robin Hood, Partner - Camp Walden & Madawaska CampsKelly Schuna - Owner - Hidden Pines RanchNelson Strickland - Board Co-Chair - Camp Jamison- Episode Links:So You Think You Can Camp  Thanks to our sponsors:WhereaboutsYour mission is campers. Ours is making their experience coordinated and connected.  Whereabouts is the only camper management system that keeps Parents, Admin, and Staff in sync in real time — so every camper’s day runs with confidence, clarity, and care. Check them out whereaboutsapp.io Want easier hiring and stronger teams? Set up intentional systems to retain your best people and consistently recruit passionate, high‑fit staff—then watch results compound.Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis. Can your camp take another year of staff strain, long days, and parent communication headaches? Put systems in place now to retain returners and recruit high‑fit staff so the season bends, not breaks.Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis.

https://gocamp.pro/ownerspod/succession-planning Your Guide to Staying Ahead in a Changing Camp World In Episode 70 of the Camp Owners Podcast, hosts Howie Grossinger and Kelly Schuna dive into an insightful conversation with Jason Silberman, owner and director of Camp Matoka and president of CODA. Jason brings a unique blend of experience, candor, and forward thinking perspective that every camp professional, whether new to ownership or decades in, will appreciate. This episode unpacks the most pressing topics facing camp owners today, from the realities of staffing shortages to the growing need for thoughtful mental health support. Jason also shares his camp origin story, reminding listeners why passion and purpose still sit at the heart of this industry. You’ll hear practical guidance on succession planning, navigating regulatory challenges, and adapting to the evolving role of technology in daily operations. If you care about staying current in the constantly shifting world of camp ownership, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. 04:11 Jason's Camp Journey and Role in CODA 06:11 Staffing Challenges and Solutions 15:09 Mental Health Support for Staff 26:48 Technology and Innovation in Camps 31:41 Addressing Nationwide Concerns in Camp Management 33:11 Guidance for New Camp Directors on Policy Writing 34:14 Leveraging Technology and Peer Networks 37:34 Regulatory Issues and Their Impact on Camps 42:09 Future of Camp Ownership and Succession Planning 47:21 CODA and Upcoming Events - Your Hosts:Howie Grossinger - Co-owner/Director - Camp Robin Hood, Partner - Camp Walden & Madawaska CampsKelly Schuna - Owner - Hidden Pines RanchJason Silberman - Owner and Director - Camp Matoaka- Thanks to our sponsors:CamptivitiesYour staff work late into the night to create perfect camper schedules. Prevent mid-summer burnout with Camptivities — the smart scheduling software that saves time, reduces mistakes, and keeps your team energized. Find out more at camptivities.com Want easier hiring and stronger teams? Set up intentional systems to retain your best people and consistently recruit passionate, high‑fit staff—then watch results compound.Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis. Can your camp take another year of staff strain, long days, and parent communication headaches? Put systems in place now to retain returners and recruit high‑fit staff so the season bends, not breaks.Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis.

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/ownerspod/succession-planning Navigating Family Succession in Camp Ownership  Succession planning isn’t just about passing down a business—it’s about passing down a legacy. In this episode of the Camp Owners Podcast, hosts Howie Grossinger and Kelly Schuna sit down with Tammy Buss from Blue Roots to dive into the complex and deeply emotional world of family camp transitions. Whether you’re currently navigating ownership change or just starting to think about the future, this conversation offers invaluable perspective. Tammy shares her expertise in helping family-run organizations plan for the next generation - balancing tradition with innovation, emotion with practicality. Together, they unpack common challenges like communication breakdowns, emotional attachment, and differing visions for the camp’s future. You’ll walk away with tangible strategies to start these conversations early, keep relationships strong, and protect what matters most: the heart of your camp. This episode is a must-listen for any camp owner who wants to ensure their legacy not only survives but thrives, for generations to come. Highlights: 03:56 Tammy's Camp Experience05:27 Funny Camp Stories08:03 Discussion on Succession Planning08:19 Tammy's Journey into Consulting11:29 Emotional and Strategic Challenges in Camp Succession18:19 Family Dynamics in Succession Planning23:52 Facilitating Family Conversations26:10 Accountability and Hard Conversations26:51 Family Dynamics in Business28:02 Evolving Business Practices29:17 Pressure on the Next Generation31:36 Maintaining Family Business Legacy34:13 Starting the Conversation Early39:30 Role of Family Business Advisors46:46 Final Thoughts and Contact Information- Episode Links:The Business of Family Podcast with Tammy BussYour Hosts:Howie Grossinger - Co-owner/Director - Camp Robin Hood, Partner - Camp Walden & Madawaska CampsKelly Schuna - Owner - Hidden Pines RanchTammy Buss - Founder and Family Business Advisor - Blue Roots- Thanks to our sponsors:CamptivitiesYour staff work late into the night to create perfect camper schedules. Prevent mid-summer burnout with Camptivities — the smart scheduling software that saves time, reduces mistakes, and keeps your team energized. Find out more at camptivities.com Want easier hiring and stronger teams? Set up intentional systems to retain your best people and consistently recruit passionate, high‑fit staff—then watch results compound.Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis. Can your camp take another year of staff strain, long days, and parent communication headaches? Put systems in place now to retain returners and recruit high‑fit staff so the season bends, not breaks.Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis.

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/ownerspod/smart-data-rosen The Data-Informed Camp: Using Business Intelligence to Build Stronger SummersIn this season six kickoff episode, hosts Kelly Suna and Howie Grossinger sit down with camp owner and industry leader Ryan Rosen to explore the concept of business intelligence (BI) in the camp world. Ryan, a self-proclaimed "data guy," shares how camps can move beyond relying on gut feelings and broad numbers to make smarter, more strategic decisions. They discuss how to use data as a mirror—not a master—to strengthen a camp's core mission and improve the experience for campers and staff alike. Ryan highlights that BI is a mindset of curiosity and critical thinking, emphasizing Albert Einstein's quote: "Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted." The conversation delves into practical, actionable strategies for leveraging the data camps already have, from registration logs to staff surveys, to uncover hidden insights and drive meaningful change. Highlights: 04:35 Understanding Business Intelligence in Camps07:44 The Importance of Data in Camp Operations12:46 Balancing Heart and Head in Decision Making17:59 Effective Use of Surveys22:14 Proactive Communication with Families32:07 Key Performance Indicators for Camps35:26 Evaluating Camp Programs with Business Intelligence36:31 Understanding Camper and Staff Feedback36:54 Measuring Program Success and Improvement37:32 Addressing Camper Experience and Feedback40:25 Introducing Business Intelligence to Your Team42:40 Using Data to Enhance Camp Experience45:45 Balancing Data and Mission in Camp Management51:03 Practical Tips for Camp Professionals56:18 Rapid Fire Camp Questions with Ryan Rosen- Episode Link:Camptivities Article: Evaluating Your Summer Through the Lens of Business Intelligencehttps://www.camptivities.com/blog/2025/09-02evaluatecampbusinessintelligenceYour Hosts:Howie Grossinger - Co-owner/Director - Camp Robin Hood, Partner - Camp Walden & Madawaska CampsKelly Schuna - Owner - Hidden Pines RanchRyan Rosen - Owner & Director - Camp Kinneret & Founder - Camptivities- Thanks to our sponsor:CamptivitiesYour staff work late into the night to create perfect camper schedules. Prevent mid-summer burnout with Camptivities — the smart scheduling software that saves time, reduces mistakes, and keeps your team energized. Find out more at camptivities.com

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/ownerspod/first-90-steve Steve Maguire: Igniting Your Staff for an Unforgettable Camp SeasonAs we close out another season of The Camp Owners Podcast, we stick with tradition and try to provide some staff training inspiration to launch all of you into another happy, healthy and successful camp summer. Today, we have Steve Maguire, who many of us have seen at camp conferences, have had at our camps and above all, someone who has provided incredibly helpful insight into working with our staff, assessing and improving our operations and generally providing very fresh perspectives on how to make camp better for everyone. He also does it with unmatched energy which we hope to harness today! Highlights: 04:55 Steve Maguire's Journey into the Camp World22:20 The Power of Movement in Training24:37 The Importance of First Impressions30:49 Setting Expectations and Addressing Early Issues31:46 The Importance of Immediate Action34:23 Overhiring and Staff Management Strategies37:14 Cultural and Behavioral Observations53:46 Personal Reflections and Professional Balance56:20 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Remarks- Your Hosts:Howie Grossinger - Co-owner/Director - Camp Robin Hood, Partner - Camp Walden & Madawaska CampsKelly Schuna - Owner - Hidden Pines RanchSteve Maguire, Speaker, Trainer, Teacher and more - Go Turnstone- Thanks to our sponsors:CampBrainCelebrating 30 years, CampBrain camp management software not only provides a great tool and caring support for your best ever workdays, but a delightful registration experience for parents. Discover what more than 1800 camps know and how you can love your software too, visit https://www.campbrain.com/ownerspod CamptivitiesActivity schedules are the backbone of every camper’s experience. If there’s a staffing change, it’s really hard to find a person that knows your camp and the nuance your schedule takes. Come check out Camptivities to learn more about our scheduling tools,  designed for camps by camp people. Find out more at camptivities.com

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/ownerspod/intentional-camp-brandwein Michael Brandwein on "The Intentional Camp": Making Your Mission MatterWhat's the secret to running a camp that truly changes lives? Michael Brandwein joins Howie Grossinger and Kelly Schuna to answer that question, sharing wisdom from his new book, "The Intentional Camp." This isn't just another conversation about fun and games; it's a deep dive into how camp owners can be incredibly intentional about developing character qualities in their campers. Brandwein challenges the "camp is magic" idea and offers concrete steps to make every activity—yes, even tie-dye!—a tool for growth. You'll hear practical tips for staff training, marketing your camp's purpose, and creating a camp culture where everyone understands the "why" behind what they do. Prepare to be inspired to make your camp more than just a summer experience, but a place where young people become their best selves. Highlights: 07:37 The Intentional Camp: Book Introduction11:11 The Magic of Camp and Intentionality14:06 Implementing Intentional Practices at Camp17:10 Engaging Staff and Leadership28:28 Purposeful Picking and Training Techniques39:07 Communicating Camp Values in Interviews41:03 Pre-Camp Preparation and Partnering44:51 Building Connections Among Staff57:05 Marketing Your Camp's Unique Value01:05:00 Rapid Fire Questions with Michael Brandwein- Links from this episodeFind them at: https://gocamp.pro/ownerspod/intentional-camp-brandwein - Your Hosts:Howie Grossinger - Co-owner/Director - Camp Robin Hood, Partner - Camp Walden & Madawaska CampsKelly Schuna - Owner - Hidden Pines RanchMichael Brandwein, Speaker, Trainer and Author - https://www.michaelbrandwein.com- Thanks to our sponsors:CampBrainCelebrating 30 years, CampBrain camp management software not only provides a great tool and caring support for your best ever workdays, but a delightful registration experience for parents. Discover what more than 1800 camps know and how you can love your software too, visit https://www.campbrain.com/ownerspod CamptivitiesActivity schedules are the backbone of every camper’s experience. If there’s a staffing change, it’s really hard to find a person that knows your camp and the nuance your schedule takes. Come check out Camptivities to learn more about our scheduling tools,  designed for camps by camp people. Find out more at camptivities.com

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/ownerspod/camp-corporate Bridging Corporate Strategies with Camp ExcellenceIn this episode of the Camp Owners Podcast, guest Mario Del Cueto from Mountain Camp Marin shares valuable strategies from his corporate experience that he integrates into camp management. From improving team communication, enhancing interviews, and capturing valuable performance data to solving problems and getting feedback from parents, campers, and staff, Mario provides actionable insights. He also dives into innovative onboarding practices, leveraging the 80-20 rule, and abundant recognition systems. Listen for practical tips on how to apply these learnings to elevate your camp operations. Join hosts Howie Grossinger and Kelly Schuna as they explore these themes in depth with Mario. Highlights: 03:46 Introducing Mario05:32 Mario's Journey from Corporate to Camp09:35 Corporate Best Practices for Camps10:37 The Importance of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)14:01 Scoring and Evaluating Camp Staff26:21 Streamlining the Application Process37:18 Onboarding and Training Insights from the Corporate World39:51 Addressing Staff Struggles Early43:08 Creating a Culture of Feedback44:05 Empowering Staff with the Better Board45:40 Lessons from Business Books for Camps47:05 Stakeholder Input: Campers, Parents, and Staff50:15 Recognition and Rewards at Camp59:41 Applying the 80/20 Rule in Camp Management01:04:24 Answer-First Communication01:06:17 Rapid-fire Questions- Links from this episode at: https://gocamp.pro/ownerspod/camp-corporate - Your Hosts:Howie Grossinger - Co-owner/Director - Camp Robin Hood, Partner - Camp Walden & Madawaska CampsKelly Schuna - Owner - Hidden Pines RanchMario Del Cueto, Camp Director - Mountain Camp Marin- Thanks to our sponsors:CampBrainCelebrating 30 years, CampBrain camp management software not only provides a great tool and caring support for your best ever workdays, but a delightful registration experience for parents. Discover what more than 1800 camps know and how you can love your software too, visit https://www.campbrain.com/ownerspod CamptivitiesActivity schedules are the backbone of every camper’s experience. If there’s a staffing change, it’s really hard to find a person that knows your camp and the nuance your schedule takes. Come check out Camptivities to learn more about our scheduling tools,  designed for camps by camp people. Find out more at camptivities.com

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/ownerspod/director-insights The Changing Landscape of Camps: Insights from Nick TeichWith conference season fast approaching and many of us well into our “off-season” to-do list, we are excited to welcome Nick Teich from Fairwinds Camp Consulting to the Camp Owners Podcast. Nick has been a presenter at many ACA events and his recent article in Camping Magazine called Camp Director Insights — And the Importance of It All made us curious about unpacking his findings and to explore some of the big takeaways from the article. Highlights: 03:38 Introducing Nick Teich05:04 Nick's Camp Journey06:32 Insights from the Camp Director Survey09:18 The Need for More Helping Hands15:37 Balancing Middle Management29:31 Setting Expectations with Parents32:01 Onboarding and Orientation for New Campers34:01 Mental Health and Code of Conduct35:30 Proactive Communication and Preparation37:09 Year-Round Engagement and Staffing40:15 Mental Health and Staff Recruitment Challenges45:22 Remembering the Why: The Importance of Camp48:34 Rapid-Fire Camp Questions with Nick- Links from this episode:Article: Camp Director Insights — And the Importance of It All - https://www.acacamps.org/article/camping-magazine/camp-director-insights-importance-it-all Article: What positions do summer camps employ on their year-round teams? - https://www.consultforcamp.com/post/what-positions-do-summer-camps-employ-on-their-year-round-teams - Your Hosts:Howie Grossinger - Co-owner/Director - Camp Robin Hood, Partner - Camp Walden & Madawaska CampsKelly Schuna - Owner - Hidden Pines RanchNick Teich - Founder and Principal - Fairwinds Camp ConsultingThanks to our sponsors:CampBrainCelebrating 30 years, CampBrain camp management software not only provides a great tool and caring support for your best ever workdays, but a delightful registration experience for parents. Discover what more than 1800 camps know and how you can love your software too, visit https://www.campbrain.com/ownerspod CamptivitiesActivity schedules are the backbone of every camper’s experience. If there’s a staffing change, it’s really hard to find a person that knows your camp and the nuance your schedule takes. Come check out Camptivities to learn more about our scheduling tools,  designed for camps by camp people. Find out more at camptivities.com

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/ownerspod/family-foley Navigating Family Succession at Camp FoleyIn this episode of The Camp Owners Podcast, hosts Kelly Schuna and Howie Grossinger continue their conversation with Alli and Marie from Camp Foley. They delve into the family's recent leadership transition as Marie retires and Allie takes the helm of the camp. The group discusses the history of Camp Foley, the challenges and learnings of transitioning leadership, and offers tips for families undergoing similar transitions at their camps. Additionally, they highlight the importance of communication, flexibility, and clarity of responsibilities. Tune in for insights on third-generation camp leadership and the invaluable perspectives from the women of Camp Foley. Highlights: 02:42 Family Transition at Camp Foley04:25 Marie’s Transition Experience09:59 Alli’s Journey to Leadership11:56 Navigating Responsibilities and Roles16:14 Succession Planning and Challenges21:03 Looking Ahead: Allie’s Vision32:12 Rapid Fire Questions- Your Hosts:Howie Grossinger - Co-owner/Director - Camp Robin Hood, Partner - Camp Walden & Madawaska CampsKelly Schuna - Owner - Hidden Pines RanchMarie Schmid, Owner/Executive Director, Camp FoleyAlli Faricy, Director, Camp Foley- Thanks to our sponsors:CampBrainCelebrating 30 years, CampBrain camp management software not only provides a great tool and caring support for your best ever workdays, but a delightful registration experience for parents. Discover what more than 1800 camps know and how you can love your software too, visit https://www.campbrain.com/ownerspod CamptivitiesActivity schedules are the backbone of every camper’s experience. If there’s a staffing change, it’s really hard to find a person that knows your camp and the nuance your schedule takes. Come check out Camptivities to learn more about our scheduling tools,  designed for camps by camp people. Find out more at camptivities.com

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/campahead/scenario-planning-101 Exploring Camp Futures: Key Drivers and Scenario PlanningIn this episode of Camp Ahead, hosts Joe, Jess, and KJ  expand on the idea of scenario planning as an essential tool for thinking about the future. They discuss key drivers such as climate change, economics, demographics, technological advancements, and social shifts that can shape the next decade of summer camps. Through imaginative scenario planning, they aim to prepare the industry for both positive and challenging futures. Tune in as they explore the potential impacts of AI, climate mitigation, and more on the world of summer camps. 01:46 Recap and Introduction to Scenario Planning05:33 Key Drivers for the Future of Camps: Economic and Staff Considerations07:55 Environmental and Technological Impacts on Camps15:09 Social Drivers and Equity in Future Camps20:33 Imagining Positive Futures: Pronoia vs. Paranoia25:36 The Impact of Camp and Nature26:04 Funding and Philanthropy in Camping29:31 The Value of Experiential Learning30:12 Community and Indigenous Relationships- Episode Links:The Book: Imaginable by Jane McGonigal:https://janemcgonigal.com/2021/12/17/imaginable-how-to-see-the-future-coming-and-feel-ready-for-anything-even-things-that-seem-impossible-today/https://poe.com/UOScenarioCreatorhttps://urgentoptimists.org/- Our Hosts:Jess Elfring-Roberts - Executive Director, Episcopal Camps & Conference Centers Joe Richards - Executive Director, Pearce Williams Summer Camp and Retreat Facility KJ Williams -  Camp Director, Phantom Lake YMCA Camp - Sponsors:A huge thanks to our sponsors for making this possible. Campify: Is creating your camp schedule a headache? Does it limit the experience of campers or staff? Campify is software that does the heavy lifting for you - taking care of group, elective, and specialist scheduling based on your custom scheduling rules. Interested in learning more? Visit campify.io/CampAhead to schedule a demo or create a free trial today. Want easier hiring and stronger teams? Set up intentional systems to retain your best people and consistently recruit passionate, high‑fit staff—then watch results compound.Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis. Can your camp take another year of staff strain, long days, and parent communication headaches? Put systems in place now to retain returners and recruit high‑fit staff so the season bends, not breaks.Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis.

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/campahead/intro-to-mental-time-travel Welcome to Camp Ahead: The Futurology of the Summer Camp IndustryIn this inaugural episode of the Camp Ahead podcast, Joe Richards, KJ Williams, and Jess Elfring-Roberts dive into the concept of future-proofing the summer camp industry. They discuss the importance of mental time travel, scenario planning, and preparing for larger global issues like climate change, financial instability, demographics, and migration. The hosts share their personal experiences and outline the goals for the podcast, emphasizing the need for proactive thinking to ensure the long-term success of camps.  This episode sets the stage for exploring how the camp community can adapt and thrive amidst uncertainties. 00:58 Meet the Hosts01:51 The Concept of Future Scenarios03:46 Pandemic Reflections06:43 Proactive vs. Reactive Planning30:08 Thinking Big: Managing Smaller Challenges31:10 Climate Migration and Its Impacts33:12 Demographic Shifts in Camping38:09 The Importance of Collaboration- Episode Links:The Book: Imaginable by Jane McGonigal:https://janemcgonigal.com/2021/12/17/imaginable-how-to-see-the-future-coming-and-feel-ready-for-anything-even-things-that-seem-impossible-today/https://poe.com/UOScenarioCreatorhttps://urgentoptimists.org/- Our Hosts:Jess Elfring-Roberts - Executive Director, Episcopal Camps & Conference Centers Joe Richards - Executive Director, Pearce Williams Summer Camp and Retreat Facility KJ Williams -  Camp Director, Phantom Lake YMCA Camp - Sponsors:A huge thanks to our sponsors for making this possible. Campify: Is creating your camp schedule a headache? Does it limit the experience of campers or staff? Campify is software that does the heavy lifting for you - taking care of group, elective, and specialist scheduling based on your custom scheduling rules. Interested in learning more? Visit campify.io/CampAhead to schedule a demo or create a free trial today. Want easier hiring and stronger teams? Set up intentional systems to retain your best people and consistently recruit passionate, high‑fit staff—then watch results compound.Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis. Can your camp take another year of staff strain, long days, and parent communication headaches? Put systems in place now to retain returners and recruit high‑fit staff so the season bends, not breaks.Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis.

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/ownerspod/milestones-2024 Celebrating 100 Years: Tips from Camp Foley's Milestone EventIn this episode of the Camp Owners Podcast, Kelly Schuna and Howie Grossinger talk to Marie Schmid and Alli Faricy from Camp Foley about celebrating their 100th anniversary. They discuss planning tips, lessons learned, and details from the milestone event. Topics include scheduling, event activities, alumni engagement, and maintaining camp traditions. This episode offers valuable insights for camp owners planning similar celebrations. Highlights: 02:55 Introducing Marie and Ali from Camp Foley03:41 Marie and Ali's Origin Stories06:28 Planning the 100th Anniversary08:06 Executing the Celebration15:13 Challenges and Solutions23:48 Event Highlights and Activities30:25 Tips and Suggestions for Milestone Celebrations- Your Hosts:Howie Grossinger - Co-owner/Director - Camp Robin Hood, Partner - Camp Walden & Madawaska CampsKelly Schuna - Owner - Hidden Pines RanchMarie Schmid, Owner/Executive Director, Camp FoleyAlli Faricy, Director, Camp Foley- Thanks to our sponsors:CampBrainCelebrating 30 years, CampBrain camp management software not only provides a great tool and caring support for your best ever workdays, but a delightful registration experience for parents. Discover what more than 1800 camps know and how you can love your software too, visit https://www.campbrain.com/ownerspod CamptivitiesActivity schedules are the backbone of every camper’s experience. If there’s a staffing change, it’s really hard to find a person that knows your camp and the nuance your schedule takes. Come check out Camptivities to learn more about our scheduling tools,  designed for camps by camp people. Find out more at camptivities.com Want easier hiring and stronger teams? Set up intentional systems to retain your best people and consistently recruit passionate, high‑fit staff—then watch results compound.Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis. Can your camp take another year of staff strain, long days, and parent communication headaches? Put systems in place now to retain returners and recruit high‑fit staff so the season bends, not breaks.Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis.

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/ownerspod/j-gold-crossover Inside the Camp Ownership World: Success Stories and ChallengesIn this crossover episode from the Day Camp Pod, Join Andy Pritikin, Sam Thompson, and Justin Pritikin as they delve into the inspiring story of Jonathan Gold, a successful operator of three large private day camps in New Jersey. In this episode, Jonathan shares his journey, the risks and challenges he took on, and the lessons learned along the way. The second half brings in Justin to discuss how the next generation of camp operators can succeed. The conversation covers everything from financial planning in the camp business to the evolving career paths for young camp professionals. Plus, get insights into the current state of the day camp industry and valuable tips for prospective camp owners and directors. Tune in for an episode full of wisdom and practical advice. Highlights: 01:41 Meet Jonathan Gold05:29 First Steps in the Camp Industry13:06 Taking Over Meadowbrook Day Camp17:46 Acquiring Oak Crest Day Camp26:17 Expanding to Multiple Camps27:12 Reviving a Dormant Camp32:50 Financial Realities of Camp Management37:11 Entrepreneurial Drive in Camp Ownership- Your Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictJonathan M. Gold, MBA, PhD, Camp Owner/Director - the Arbor Group of CampsJustin Pritikin, Director of Staff - Everwood Day Camp- Thanks to our sponsors:CampBrainCelebrating 30 years, CampBrain camp management software not only provides a great tool and caring support for your best ever workdays, but a delightful registration experience for parents. Discover what more than 1800 camps know and how you can love your software too, visit https://www.campbrain.com/ownerspod CamptivitiesActivity schedules are the backbone of every camper’s experience. If there’s a staffing change, it’s really hard to find a person that knows your camp and the nuance your schedule takes. Come check out Camptivities to learn more about our scheduling tools,  designed for camps by camp people. Find out more at camptivities.com Want easier hiring and stronger teams? Set up intentional systems to retain your best people and consistently recruit passionate, high‑fit staff—then watch results compound.Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis. Can your camp take another year of staff strain, long days, and parent communication headaches? Put systems in place now to retain returners and recruit high‑fit staff so the season bends, not breaks.Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis.

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/ownerspod/new-owner-jason-samuel Want to own your own camp? Here is the perfect case study from Jason Samuel!Join Kelly and Howie on the Camp Owners Podcast as they delve into the journey of Jason Samuel, the new owner of The Nature Place. Jason shares insights from his transition from a sailing instructor to camp owner, the rich history of The Nature Place, and the challenges faced, especially during the pandemic. Discover the importance of networking, financing strategies, and leveraging support systems within the camp industry. Learn about the complexities of transitioning leadership, maintaining camp culture, and overcoming financial hurdles.  Tune in for valuable lessons and advice on navigating camp ownership, enhancing camp experiences, and sustaining legacies. 00:00 Introduction to the Episode00:30 Podcast Overview and Sponsors02:25 Introducing Jason Samuel & Jason's Journey into Camping07:27 The Appeal of Day Camps09:07 Purchasing The Nature Place15:30 Networking and Finding Camps for Sale21:56 Financing the Camp Purchase30:53 Navigating Lease Agreements34:23 Making Improvements and Investments37:26 Transition Challenges and Communication46:42 Lessons Learned and Advice52:46 Rapid Fire QuestionsHost Links:Howie Grossinger - Co-owner/Director - Camp Robin Hood, Partner - Camp Walden & Madawaska CampsKelly Schuna - Owner - Hidden Pines RanchJason Samuel - Owner & Director - The Nature Place- Thanks to our sponsors:CampBrainCelebrating 30 years, CampBrain camp management software not only provides a great tool and caring support for your best ever workdays, but a delightful registration experience for parents. Discover what more than 1800 camps know and how you can love your software too, visit https://www.campbrain.com/ownerspod CamptivitiesActivity schedules are the backbone of every camper’s experience. If there’s a staffing change, it’s really hard to find a person that knows your camp and the nuance your schedule takes. Come check out Camptivities to learn more about our scheduling tools,  designed for camps by camp people. Find out more at camptivities.com Want easier hiring and stronger teams? Set up intentional systems to retain your best people and consistently recruit passionate, high‑fit staff—then watch results compound.Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis. Can your camp take another year of staff strain, long days, and parent communication headaches? Put systems in place now to retain returners and recruit high‑fit staff so the season bends, not breaks.Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis.