The CampHacker Podcast

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/campahead/scenario-planning-101Exploring 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 CentersJoe Richards - Executive Director, Pearce Williams Summer Camp and Retreat FacilityKJ 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.

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2024/noticingUse noticing to build a culture of inclusivity and intention.In this episode of the CampHacker podcast, Travis and Chris discuss the vital skill of 'noticing' at camp. The duo share how camp leaders can foster awareness among staff and campers, ensuring dynamic and inclusive programs. They share practical tips, including the importance of diverse staff hiring, continuous feedback, and re-evaluating programs based on the feedback that comes from your “noticing” data. Additionally, they emphasize the necessity of noticing who is left out and the impact of thoughtful communication. Tune in for insightful strategies that can enhance your camp’s environment and overall experience.Hear more about:01:59 Introducing Noticing Skills05:36 Challenging Traditions for Better Camps08:24 Empowering Staff to Notice17:24 Tips and Tricks for Noticing22:03 Common Camp Challenges and Solutions24:17 Hiring the Right Camp Counselors34:55 Effective Communication with Parents39:51 Tool of the Week-Tool of the Week - Make Yourself a Better Camp DirectorChris - Bluesky https://bsky.app/Travis - The Art of Noticing - Rob Walker https://bookshop.org/a/84130/9780525521242  https://amzn.to/4isdrFq-Your HostsTravis Allison, Summer Camp Consultant - Go Camp ProChris Hudson, Camp Consultant and Director - Camp Highlight-Rate and Review the CampHacker Show(Thank you!)-Thanks to our sponsors!UltraCampRemember what sparked your passion for camp? UltraCamp knows it’s about the people, not the paperwork. That’s why they built a platform to simplify your camp management. Learn more at ultracampmanagement.com/camphackerCamptivitiesActivity 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

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!A new show from Go Camp Pro!Subscribe to Camp Ahead in Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your favourite Podcasts!Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/campahead/intro-to-mental-time-travelWelcome 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 CentersJoe Richards - Executive Director, Pearce Williams Summer Camp and Retreat FacilityKJ 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.

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2024/gender-equityDo you notice that gender equity is something we are better at talking about than doing?In this episode, Travis and Chris welcome back Gabrielle Raill to explore the persistent issue of gender equity in camps. Chris leads a discussion on how camps often roll out the red carpet for male staff due to a shortage of male applicants, sometimes at the expense of gender equity. Gabz shares her experiences from all-girls camp, highlighting the implicit gender norms that surface even in such environments. The team examines the importance of addressing these disparities through intentional staff training and mission-driven leadership. The episode also includes practical tools and resources for camp professionals to incorporate gender equity into their daily operations.Hear more about:00:00 Introduction to Gender Equity in Camps01:58 Observations on Gender Equity07:27 Challenges and Solutions13:34 The Importance of Mission-Driven Gender Equity19:52 Promoting Gender Equity Through Staff Training24:25 The Importance of Clear Communication28:05 Microaggressions and Staff Training28:59 Safety and Inclusion as Non-Negotiables-Tool of the Week - Make Yourself a Better Camp DirectorChris -  The Book of Shadows (Amazon is cheaper but funds evil conglomerates - https://amzn.to/4hY3vTR) Travis - Fixable Podcast with Anne & Francis - Neurodivergent book/interview https://www.ted.com/podcasts/fixable Gabz - HiDock https://www.hidock.com/products/hidock-h1e -Your HostsTravis Allison, Summer Camp Consultant - Go Camp ProChris Hudson, Camp Consultant and Director - Camp HighlightGabrielle Raill, Camp Director - Camp Ouareau-Thanks to our sponsors!UltraCampRemember what sparked your passion for camp? UltraCamp knows it’s about the people, not the paperwork. That’s why they built a platform to simplify your camp management. Learn more at ultracampmanagement.com/camphackerCamptivitiesActivity 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

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2024/delegateDo you keep saying, “It would be faster if I just did it?”Are you a camp professional struggling with delegation? Travis and Chris sit down and discuss the intricacies of effective delegation, sharing personal experiences, strategies, and tools to help camp directors empower their team and improve camp operations. From understanding the importance of communication to leveraging AI tools and overcoming ego, this podcast episode is packed with valuable insights for every camp manager looking to create a more efficient, stress-free environment. This episode will equip you with the knowledge to make a lasting impact on your camp community.Hear more about:01:31 The Importance of Delegation02:42 Challenges in Delegation05:58 Effective Communication for Delegation07:23 Understanding the Value of Your Time09:28 Planning for Succession13:21 Overcoming Ego in Delegation20:47 Building Confidence Through Delegation26:11 Creating a Culture of Continuous Improvement-Tool of the Week - Make Yourself a Better Camp DirectorChris -  Magnesium Citrate - https://amzn.to/4fIIvhRTravis - Ellie Middleton - I love her LinkedIn post from today talking about this framework and explaining why it's important. She also has a new book out that I haven't had a chance to look at yet. She also has a new PDF guide available that I hope to check out soon. The important thing to look at is in this illustration: vague instructions and the anxiety and questions that arise from those vague instructions. If your brain only works literally, there are so many factors to consider when you're considering a vague instruction, making it almost impossible to follow through on that instruction. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/elliemidds_neurodivergent-accessibility-activity-7262019544062341121-7siE?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop-Your HostsTravis Allison, Summer Camp Consultant - Go Camp ProChris Hudson, Camp Consultant and Director - Camp Highlight-Thanks to our sponsors!UltraCampRemember what sparked your passion for camp? UltraCamp knows it’s about the people, not the paperwork. That’s why they built a platform to simplify your camp management. Learn more at ultracampmanagement.com/camphackerCamptivitiesActivity 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

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2024/digital-detoxAre we doing our staff and campers a disservice by not better managing the expectations around their phone time at camp?Travis and Chris sit down with Max Claman to chat about effective digital detox and the psychological impacts of removing screens. They also discuss the role of AI in streamlining operations and provide practical tips for integrating technology while preserving the authentic camp experience. Packed with valuable insights and real-world examples, this discussion offers essential advice for camp directors and educators looking to enhance their camp programs.Hear more about:01:57 Max's Camp Journey04:17 Technology and Phones at Camp08:27 The Impact of Technology on Campers11:23 Balancing Technology and Camp Life20:42 Educating Campers on Technology Use24:21 Generational Perspectives on Technology29:27 Developing a Digital Detox Plan for Camps31:43 Engaging Parents in the Digital Detox Process-Tool of the Week - Make Yourself a Better Camp DirectorChris - Brother printersTravis - unapologetically ADHD - podcast and bookMax - Claude.ai-Your HostsTravis Allison, Summer Camp Consultant - Go Camp ProChris Hudson, Camp Consultant and Director - Camp HighlightMax Claman - Principal - VestEd Consulting-Rate and Review the CampHacker Show(Thank you!)-Thanks to our sponsors!UltraCampRemember what sparked your passion for camp? UltraCamp knows it’s about the people, not the paperwork. That’s why they built a platform to simplify your camp management. Learn more at ultracampmanagement.com/camphackerCamptivitiesActivity 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

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2024/ai-fall-2024The State of AI and Camps: Fall 2024In this episode of the CampHacker podcast, Travis and Chris explore the revolutionary impact of artificial intelligence on summer camp management. They dive into AI's role in streamlining operations, automating tasks, and enhancing staff training and parent communication. Discover specific tools like Perplexity, ChatGPT, and Notebook LM, which improve efficiency while addressing privacy concerns. Learn how AI can transform everything from scheduling and communication to monetization and fundraising, making camps more effective and enjoyable.Hear more about:4:03 AI's Impact on Summer Camps16:36 Staff Training and AI Scenarios26:46 Understanding AI's Limitations27:35 Career Coaching with AI28:41 AI in the Gig Economy29:27 AI in Camp Photography31:54 AI's Role in Camp Administration35:04 Addressing Privacy Concerns37:54 Future of AI in Camps-Resources from this EpisodePrompt-building link: https://mitenmit.github.io/gpt/https://account.aftershoot.com/referral-signup?referrer=V31CAJ02Use this to append to prompts to get you better answers:Ask me clarifying questions until you are 95% confident you can complete the task successfully. Take a deep breath and take it step by step. Remember to search the internet to retrieve up-to-date information.-Tool of the Week - Make Yourself a Better Camp DirectorChris - Game - Once Upon a Time - https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/1234/once-upon-time-storytelling-card-game Travis - Match Puzzle Game-Your HostsTravis Allison, Summer Camp Consultant - Go Camp ProChris Hudson, Camp Consultant and Director - Camp Highlight-Rate and Review the CampHacker Show(Thank you!)-Thanks to our sponsors!UltraCampRemember what sparked your passion for camp? UltraCamp knows it’s about the people, not the paperwork. That’s why they built a platform to simplify your camp management. Learn more at ultracampmanagement.com/camphackerCamptivitiesActivity 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

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2024/over-programmed Are camps so packed with activities that it's actually detrimental? In this episode of the CampHacker podcast, hosts Travis Allison and Chris Hudson discuss the concept of overprogramming at camps, questioning if an abundance of scheduled activities could be detrimental. With insights from camp consultants, they explore balancing structured and unstructured time, considering the interests of children, parents, and staff. They also discuss generational changes in camp staff and touch on post-pandemic effects on camp programming.The Impact of COVID on Camp StructurePros and Cons of Free PlayParental Concerns About Free-PlayBalancing Structure and Free Time for KidsUnderstanding Children's Needs and PreferencesTool of the Week - Make Yourself a Better Camp DirectorChris -  Radical Candor by Kim Scott - https://www.radicalcandor.com/ Travis - Hoverair X1 - drone - https://hoverair.com/ Your HostsTravis Allison, Summer Camp Consultant - Go Camp ProChris Hudson, Camp Consultant and Director - Camp Highlight-Rate and Review the CampHacker Show(Thank you!)-Thanks to our sponsors!UltraCampRemember what sparked your passion for camp? UltraCamp knows it’s about the people, not the paperwork. That’s why they built a platform to simplify your camp management. Learn more at ultracampmanagement.com/camphackerCamptivitiesActivity 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

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2024/05/start-camp-2025If we were starting a summer camp from scratch, here’s what we can do!200 episodes and over 14 years, the CampHacker Podcast has been around literally so long that we actually can’t find the first few episodes (seriously, if you find them, holler!).After 200+ hours (that’s 1.5 weeks, people!), it’s time to put our money where our mouths are…hypothetically at least.In this episode, Travis and Chris take their collective camp and education experience, alongside the realities of running summer camps today, and put it together to share how they would build and launch Camp Hudson (get it, Hudson + Allison?).From site ownership (hint, they wouldn’t), to who they serve (hint, start local), to marketing (hint, often and BIG), this episode covers a lot of ground.Join us in this hopeful and intentional thought experiment as a send-off for the summer of 2024.Thanks for the season, friends!-Tool of the Week - Make Yourself a Better Camp DirectorChris - Game - Once Upon a Time - https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/1234/once-upon-time-storytelling-card-game Travis - Finch app - https://app.befinch.com/share/TRJDYour HostsTravis Allison, Summer Camp Consultant - Go Camp ProChris Hudson, Camp Consultant and Director - Camp Highlight-Rate and Review the CampHacker Show(Thank you!)-Thanks to our sponsor!UltraCampImagine camp registration software that actually gives you MORE time for what you love - CAMP! With UltraCamp, you can effortlessly track attendance, manage staff, streamline registration, and more. Explore now at ultracampmanagement.com/camphacker

Camp director Lisa Drennan discusses the importance of creating inclusive environments for camp professionals with ADHD. Topics include embracing diversity, utilizing universal design principles, clear communication, and fostering connections. Tool recommendations include The Book of Virtues and The Conquering Fidget Ring.