The CampHacker Podcast

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2025/talk-to-parentsSave the dodging and weaving for wide-game, not for avoiding camp parents!On this episode of CampHacker, Travis and Chris are joined by Ruby Compton, and Joanna Warren Smith to really dig into the importance of communicating with camp parents. They discuss the common issue of camps avoiding communication with parents and emphasize the importance of timely, meaningful responses to build trust and ensure camper safety. The conversation highlights the need for camps to set clear expectations with parents, train staff on effective communication, and prioritize responsiveness to inquiries. Guests share practical tips for improving parent relations, from proactive communication strategies to addressing parental concerns head-on.-Tool of the Week - Make Yourself a Better Camp DirectorTravis -   The Canary Code Ludmila N. Praslova (Author) A Guide to Neurodiversity, Dignity, and Intersectional Belonging at Work https://amzn.to/3OWpc9H https://bookshop.org/a/84130/9781523005840Chris - Matador Pocket BlanketRuby -  Breville Jewel Sous VideJoanna - Bunk List Retention Hack. Use last year’s bunk list and map who isn’t registered yet, then reach out with personal moments from the kiddo’s summer.-Your HostsTravis Allison, Summer Camp Consultant - Go Camp ProChris Hudson, Camp Consultant and Director - Camp HighlightRuby Compton, Chief Exploration Officer - Ruby OutdoorsJoanna Warren Smith - Camp Consultant -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/camphackerBowline HQCamp leaders: Win back your time to what matters most—your campers. Bowline's comprehensive accounting back-office solutions and tech-enabled team free up your staff to focus on your mission. Visit bowlinehq.com to learn more and book a free 2-hour financial diagnostic. Find out more at https://www.bowlinehq.com 

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2025/spicy-questionsAre these questions about the camp industry too hot to handle?In this special live recording from OCA Connects 2025, Travis is joined by Go Camp Pro podcast hosts Howie Grossinger (The Camp Owners Podcast), Rachel Kent (Beyond Camp), and Matt Wilfrid (First Class Counselors) on a panel discussion like no other.The group answered spicy questions while eating progressively hotter wings - much to the delight of the audience and the pain of the panelists. Here are the questions:What is the biggest waste of time you see or think many year-round camp professionals engage in?Has the camp industry abandoned environmentalism?Given the changing attitude about social media. If a camp who has a belief system that is opposed to what they feel social media and companies like meta and x specifically have become or what they represent, how realistic is it for them to de-couple themselves, knowing that families still use it?Many camp professionals and the industry at large seems to understand that it's a good goal to welcome more diverse campers and staff into camps. What are some ways you see our industry succeeding and/or falling short of that?What is the ultimate camp footwear (so spicy!)-Tool of the Week - Make Yourself a Better Camp DirectorBack next episode!-Your HostsTravis Allison, Summer Camp Consultant - Go Camp ProRachel Kent, Non-Profit Professional - Host - Beyond CampHowie Grossinger - Co-owner/Director - Camp Robin Hood, Partner - Camp Walden & Madawaska Camps - Host - The Camp Owners PodcastMatt Wilfrid, Executive Producer of Podcasting at Go Camp Pro - Host - First Class Counselors-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/camphackerBowline HQCamp leaders: Win back your time to what matters most—your campers. Bowline's comprehensive accounting back-office solutions and tech-enabled team free up your staff to focus on your mission. Visit bowlinehq.com to learn more and book a free 2-hour financial diagnostic. Find out more at https://www.bowlinehq.com 

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2025/adhdIs Summer Camp the Right Profession for Someone with ADHD?"I thought it was just me." This is the sentiment shared by many camp professionals with ADHD. On this episode of Camp Hacker, Travis, Kelie, and Shauna open up about their personal experiences with ADHD, sharing the struggles, the "aha" moments, and the unique strengths that come with neurodiversity. They discuss the challenges of masking, the importance of self-advocacy, and the power of finding community. Tune in for an honest and relatable conversation about ADHD and camp leadership. This is part one of a two-part series; hear more on Scamp Life: The Other Side.-Tool of the Week - Make Yourself a Better Camp DirectorKelie - Factile (Jeopardy Maker) https://www.playfactile.com/ Shauna - Goblin Tools - https://goblin.tools/ Travis - The Way of Play - Dr. Tina Payne Bryson - https://www.tinabryson.com/the-way-of-play -Your HostsTravis Allison, Summer Camp Consultant - Go Camp ProKelie Cook, Camp Director, Pine Ridge Day CampShauna Guglielmo, Camp Programs Coordinator - Lincoln Park ZooCheck out Kelie and Shauna’s Podcast -  Scamp Life - The Other Side-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/camphackerBowline HQCamp leaders: Win back your time to what matters most—your campers. Bowline's comprehensive accounting back-office solutions and tech-enabled team free up your staff to focus on your mission. Visit bowlinehq.com to learn more and book a free 2-hour financial diagnostic. Find out more at https://www.bowlinehq.com 

Ariella Skoczylas, an educator and trainer from Leadership Lioness, dives into the intriguing dynamics of fun and responsibility for camp directors. She emphasizes the significance of balancing joy with the hard work of camp management. Listeners will enjoy anecdotes showcasing how spontaneity can enhance connection among staff and campers. Ariella also discusses strategies for communicating these challenges to young staff, rethinking what 'fun' really means in this demanding role, and fostering a positive camp atmosphere.

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2025/hire-directorExpectations vs. Reality: The Camp Director Job MarketJoin Travis Allison, Chris Hudson, Dan Weir, and Esther Eisenhard for another fantastic episode of the CampHacker podcast! This episode dives into key challenges and emerging trends in recruiting and retaining camp staff. Learn about tools and strategies to manage camp operations more effectively, improve the candidate experience, and set up your camp for success. Plus, find out about specific job openings and practical tips on hiring superstars for your camp.-Tool of the Week - Make Yourself a Better Camp DirectorChris - Battery-powered lamps (Expensive version)Travis - The Unstuck Book - Conor McCarthy https://amzn.to/3PwqWH2 Dan - Grammarly Pro: https://www.grammarly.com/referrals/redeem?key=pj7usy9dest2ilsu Esther Indeed.com Role posting - Analytics / Analytics ReviewJazzHR - https://www.jazzhr.com/ Glassdoor - https://www.glassdoor.ca/index.htm -Your HostsTravis Allison, Summer Camp Consultant - Go Camp ProChris Hudson, Camp Consultant and Director - Camp HighlightEsther Eisenhard, Co-Founder, CampHire RecruitingDan Weir, Sr. Consultant - immersive1st - Day Camp Community-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://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.Free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic: https://camp.mba/travisTake it once a month to see how all of your work is progressing.  Our free Resilient Camp Blueprint diagnostic is available at: https://camp.mba/travis

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.comFree Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic: https://camp.mba/travisTake it once a month to see how all of your work is progressing.  Our free Resilient Camp Blueprint diagnostic is available at: https://camp.mba/travis

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.Free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic: https://camp.mba/travisTake it once a month to see how all of your work is progressing.  Our free Resilient Camp Blueprint diagnostic is available at: https://camp.mba/travis

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.comFree Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic: https://camp.mba/travisTake it once a month to see how all of your work is progressing.  Our free Resilient Camp Blueprint diagnostic is available at: https://camp.mba/travis

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/camphackerFree Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic: https://camp.mba/travisTake it once a month to see how all of your work is progressing.  Our free Resilient Camp Blueprint diagnostic is available at: https://camp.mba/travis