The Day Camp Pod - From Go Camp Pro

Send us a textFind full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/sleepaway-spiritWhat makes sleepaway camp feel so special and how can day camps capture that same magic? In this episode of the Day Camp Pod, hosts Andy Pritikin, Sam Thompson, and Jordanna Grossinger are joined by camp pros Dan Johnson and Dan Weir to unpack exactly that. Together, they explore creative ways to bring community, connection, and spontaneous fun into the day camp environment.  Episode Links:Camp Robin Hood’s Hands are Strong Sing-a-LongLiberty Lake Spirit CalendarNonviolent Communication: A Language of LifeCenter for Nonviolent CommunicationYour Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictJordanna Grossinger, Director - Camp Robin HoodDan Weir, Senior Consultant - Immersive1st, Day Camp CommunityDan Johnson, Day Camp Director - Kennolyn CampsSponsors:Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) Looking to elevate your camp experience? For over 25 years, Commercial Recreation Specialists has been transforming camps with water inflatables, Splashpads, playgrounds, and more! Boost your programming, drive registrations, and attract more campers. Our team of Recreation Specialists is here to help you design the ultimate space. Let’s take your camp to the next level – because we’re serious about FUN! Find out more at https://crs4rec.com/CampminderCampminder has the most robust offerings of features out there. But more importantly, every feature works together to create a full, seamless system that helps camps run more efficiently. Visit them today at campminder.comCamptivitiesBuilding the perfect camp schedule takes experience — and when a key staff member leaves, that knowledge can disappear. Camptivities protects your institutional camp knowledge and makes sure every camper gets the schedule you promised. Built by camp people, for camp people. Learn m

Send us a textFind full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/maximize-your-campExpanding reach, building partnerships and creating sustainable revenueEver wondered what your camp could become after the last camper goes home for the summer? In this episode, Andy, Jordanna and Sam are joined by Peggy Aylmer, Senior Program Director - Day Camps and Retreats - YMCA Camp Copneconic to dive into how camps can transform their spaces and strengthen their communities year-round. From hosting school groups and family reunions to corporate retreats and even Renaissance fairs, discover creative ways to extend your camp’s impact beyond the traditional summer season.Highlights:04:03 Diverse Camp Programs06:31 Robinhood Leadership Center10:01 Staffing Challenges and Solutions16:36 Weekend and Seasonal Programs23:06 Event Business at Liberty Lake26:19 The Importance of Full-Time Event Staff27:08 Managing Camp Events and Staff Well-Being27:44 Challenges of Hosting Events at Camps28:22 Feeding Campers and Event Guests29:18 Selecting and Hosting Specialty Camps30:41 Day Camps vs. Sleepaway Camps32:15 Unique Partnerships and Community Engagement34:00 Setting Boundaries and Agreements for Rentals35:52 Handling Medical and Security Needs39:50 Navigating School and Board Requirements43:37 Networking and Learning from Other Camps-Episode Links:Camp Robin Hood’s School ProgramsCamp Robin Hood’s Rentals and Events-Your Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictJordanna Grossinger, Director - Camp Robin HoodPeggy Aylmer, Senior Program Director - Day Camps and Retreats - YMCA Camp Copneconic-Sponsors:Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible:Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) Looking to elevate your camp experience? For over 25 years, Commercial Recreation Specialists has been transforming camps with water inflatables, Splashpads, playgrounds, and more! Boost your programming, drive registrations, and attract more campers. Our team of Recreation Specialists is here to help you design the ultimate space. Let’s take your camp to the next level – because we’re serious about FUN! Find out more at https://crs4rec.com/CampminderCampminder has the most robust offerings of features out there. But more importantly, every feature works together to create a full, seamless system that helps camps run more efficiently. Visit them today at campminder.comCamptivitiesBuilding the perfect camp schedule takes experience — and when a key staff member leaves, that knowledge can disappear. Camptivities protects your institutional camp knowledge and makes sure every camper gets the schedule you promised. Built by

Send us a textFind full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/summer-2025-debriefRiding the Post-Summer Vibe: Wins, Wildcards, and What's AheadIn this episode, Andy, Sam, and Jordanna reflect on the summer of 2025, sharing their biggest wins, unexpected challenges, and key takeaways as they transition into the off-season. The trio dives into the nuances of camp life after the campers are gone, discussing the "shoulder season" and the unique staffing needs it presents. The conversation touches on the importance of accountability, the evolving relationship with camp parents, and how technology is shaping camp communication and operations. They emphasize the value of showing parents the magic of camp firsthand and the importance of professional development for veteran staff.Highlights:04:22 Big Wins of the Summer05:13 New Camp Site and Staff Training13:01 Handling Behavioral Challenges15:49 Accountability and Staff Management28:56 The Importance of Professionalism in Staff29:13 Self-Evaluation and Accountability30:16 Staff Absences and Expectations31:44 The Role of Media Teams in Camps37:37 Parent Communication and Expectations44:37 Family Nights and Community Building52:36 Staff Training and Leadership Development56:20 Economic Challenges and Future Trends58:45 Conclusion and Final Thoughts-Episode Links:Crystal Lake Park District’s Inclusion Chart-Your Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictJordanna Grossinger, Director - Camp Robin Hood-Sponsors:Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible:Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) Looking to elevate your camp experience? For over 25 years, Commercial Recreation Specialists has been transforming camps with water inflatables, Splashpads, playgrounds, and more! Boost your programming, drive registrations, and attract more campers. Our team of Recreation Specialists is here to help you design the ultimate space. Let’s take your camp to the next level – because we’re serious about FUN! Find out more at https://crs4rec.com/CampminderCampminder has the most robust offerings of features out there. But more importantly, every feature works together to create a full, seamless system that helps camps run more efficiently. Visit them today at campminder.comCamptivitiesBuilding the perfect camp schedule takes experience — and when a key staff member leaves, that knowledge can disappear. Camptivities protects your institutional camp knowledge and makes sure every camper gets the schedule you promised. Built by camp people, for camp people. Learn more at camptivities.com.

Send us a textFind full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/final-thoughts-25Gearing Up for Glory - Have a great summer, Day Camp Pros!The countdown to Summer 2025 has begun, and before we immerse ourselves in the smiles and hugs of camp life, we're hitting record one last time! This episode is packed with essential insights as we reflect on our recent advocacy efforts in Washington D.C., revealing how camp leaders are fighting for our industry's future.We tackle the very real pre-summer stress, offering perspective on managing the influx of staff applications and adapting to new economic challenges that impact everything from programming budgets to parent enrollment trends. You'll hear about innovative staff training strategies, unexpected ways to boost camp spirit with mascots and special events, and why, despite the hurdles, our work in day camp remains profoundly important. This is your essential listen to recharge your motivation and get ready for the incredible season ahead!Highlights:01:58 Advocacy and Legislative Efforts04:08 Economic Impact and Grants05:46 International Staff and J-1 Visas11:09 Challenges in Camp Operations22:46 Staff Training Innovations28:31 The Impact of Texting at Camp28:55 Improving Staff Communication29:23 Addressing Staff Absenteeism30:47 Preparing for Camp Season33:00 Family Nights and Parent Engagement35:40 Virtual Staff Meetings39:58 New Activities and Special Events49:08 The Importance of Camp Experience53:37 Final Thoughts and Encouragement-Your Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictJordanna Grossinger, Director - Camp Robin Hood-Sponsors:Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible:AMSkierAMSkier is a leading insurance and strategic partner for many of the finest camps in America. AMSkier partners with camps to provide public relations, legal, medical, behavior support and more - Experience the AMSkier difference. Learn more at amskier.com.Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) Looking to elevate your camp experience? For over 25 years, Commercial Recreation Specialists has been transforming camps with water inflatables, Splashpads, playgrounds, and more! Boost your programming, drive registrations, and attract more campers. Our team of Recreation Specialists is here to help you design the ultimate space. Let’s take your camp to the next level – because we’re serious about FUN! Find out more at https://crs4rec.com/CampminderCampminder has the most robust offerings of features out there. But more importantly, every feature works together to create a full, seamless system that helps camps run more efficiently. Visit them today at campminder.com

Send us a textFind full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/staff-accountabilityRaising the Bar: Practical Strategies for Staff Accountability This SummerThis week on The Day Camp Pod, we dive into the essential topic of staff accountability, exploring how to foster a professional environment where team members are responsible and contribute effectively. Hosts Andy Pritikin, Sam Thompson, and Jordanna Grossinger welcome Justin Pritikin and Eric Hillis to discuss strategies for setting clear expectations, addressing performance, and empowering leadership staff to hold their teams accountable. Highlights:02:16 Camp Career Accelerator Program04:07 Staff Accountability and High Standards07:52 Challenges in Staff Management10:32 Middle Management Struggles17:50 Training vs. Attitude Issues24:51 Empowering Middle Management30:55 Addressing Staff Performance Issues32:34 Implementing a Point System for Accountability33:26 Balancing Empathy and Accountability41:05 Consequences and Praise Models43:12 Formalizing Feedback and Documentation49:52 Challenges of Middle Management51:58 Intergenerational Perspectives on Leadership-Your Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictJordanna Grossinger, Director - Camp Robin HoodErec Hillis, Owner and Executive Director - Camp ChampionsJustin Pritikin, Director of Staff, Teen Leadership Coordinator, & Special Events Director - Everwood Day Camp-Sponsors:Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible:AMSkierAMSkier is a leading insurance and strategic partner for many of the finest camps in America. AMSkier partners with camps to provide public relations, legal, medical, behavior support and more - Experience the AMSkier difference. Learn more at amskier.com.Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) Looking to elevate your camp experience? For over 25 years, Commercial Recreation Specialists has been transforming camps with water inflatables, Splashpads, playgrounds, and more! Boost your programming, drive registrations, and attract more campers. Our team of Recreation Specialists is here to help you design the ultimate space. Let’s take your camp to the next level – because we’re serious about FUN! Find out more at https://crs4rec.com/CampminderCampminder has the most robust offerings of features out there. But more importantly, every feature works together to create a full, seamless system that helps camps run more efficiently. Visit them today at campminder.com

Send us a textFind full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/roz-jed-2025Maximizing Your Staff Training: Connection Before ContentThere are a lot of staff trainers out there in the camp world- But there are very few who actually helmed a large day camp themselves, dealing with the ins and outs, trials and tribulations, and the challenges of training hundreds of seasonal staff. Roz and Jed share tips on creating a dynamic and engaging orientation, balancing structure with organic moments, fostering a positive camp culture, and implementing ongoing coaching throughout the summer. They also discuss the importance of making staff feel comfortable, the critical role of approachability for leaders, and innovative ideas for in-season staff training. Whether you’re a seasoned camp professional or new to the field, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you enhance your staff training and overall camp experience. Don’t miss it!-Links from this Episode:“The Unofficial Start” Podcast Episode from Roz and Jed - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MjBG77jsCFY&t=7s-Your Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictJordanna Grossinger, Director - Camp Robin HoodRoz and Jed Buck, Camp Consultants - rozandjed.comJed@RozandJed.comRoz@RozandJed.com-Sponsors:Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible:AMSkierAMSkier is a leading insurance and strategic partner for many of the finest camps in America. AMSkier partners with camps to provide public relations, legal, medical, behavior support and more - Experience the AMSkier difference. Learn more at amskier.com.Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) Looking to elevate your camp experience? For over 25 years, Commercial Recreation Specialists has been transforming camps with water inflatables, Splashpads, playgrounds, and more! Boost your programming, drive registrations, and attract more campers. Our team of Recreation Specialists is here to help you design the ultimate space. Let’s take your camp to the next level – because we’re serious about FUN! Find out more at https://crs4rec.com/CampminderCampminder has the most robust offerings of features out there. But more importantly, every feature works together to create a full, seamless system that helps camps run more efficiently. Visit them today at campminder.com

Send us a textFind full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/kids-arent-listening"They Just Won't Listen!": Expert Tips for Managing Camper Behavior ChallengesIt’s the second week of camp, and you can anticipate a good percentage of your frontline staff going to their supervisors and declaring, “the kids aren’t listening to me!” What do you do? What do you say? Going backwards, what should you have done during training that would have helped give them better tools? For this universal topic, we bring in Emily Golinsky, our resident camper behavior expert, who has a bunch of webinars this Spring that we highly recommend to for your leadership teamHighlights:02:09 Understanding Camper Behaviors03:51 The Importance of Building Relationships06:36 Generational Differences in Staff and Campers19:10 Emotional Regulation and Staff Training29:42 The Importance of Structure in Camp Counseling32:46 Gamifying Responses for Better Engagement35:36 Supporting Stressed Counselors46:03 Balancing Individual and Group Needs52:54 Encouraging Unstructured Play56:59 Celebrating Small Wins and Everyday MagicLinks from this Episode:Find them at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/kids-arent-listening-Your Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictJordanna Grossinger, Director - Camp Robin HoodEmily Golinsky, Trainer, Professional Development Leader & Consultant - Bright Moose, LLC-Sponsors:Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible:AMSkierAMSkier is a leading insurance and strategic partner for many of the finest camps in America. AMSkier partners with camps to provide public relations, legal, medical, behavior support and more - Experience the AMSkier difference. Learn more at amskier.com.Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) Looking to elevate your camp experience? For over 25 years, Commercial Recreation Specialists has been transforming camps with water inflatables, Splashpads, playgrounds, and more! Boost your programming, drive registrations, and attract more campers. Our team of Recreation Specialists is here to help you design the ultimate space. Let’s take your camp to the next level – because we’re serious about FUN! Find out more at https://crs4rec.com/CampMinderCampminder has the most robust offerings of features out there. But more importantly, every feature works together to create a full, seamless system that helps camps run more efficiently. Visit them today at campminder.com

Send us a textFind full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/arrival-dismissalMastering Day Camp Chaos: Arrival & Dismissal Secrets RevealedHow we start our days at camp sets the machine in motion, in regard to intentionality and building community. How we end is what they remember each day, and is just as important! Today, we’ve got Jordanna from Camp Robin Hood, Ontario, and Phil from the mighty Ramaquois of Rockland County NY - and we’re going to deep dive into what each of our camps do, and why- This is a thick, dense podcast, so get ready to absorb- because BIG camps that can pull this off with precision are amazing to hear about!Highlights:04:13 Transportation Logistics and Challenges08:15 Morning Hype and Community Building13:33 Arrival Procedures at Ramaquois, Liberty Lake, Robin Hood and Crystal Lake34:18 Dismissal Procedures and LogisticsLinks from this Episode:Find these at https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/arrival-dismissal-Your Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictJordanna Grossinger, Director - Camp Robin HoodPhil Rainone, Director, Camp Ramaquois-Sponsors:Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible:AMSkierAMSkier is a leading insurance and strategic partner for many of the finest camps in America. AMSkier partners with camps to provide public relations, legal, medical, behavior support and more - Experience the AMSkier difference. Learn more at amskier.com.Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) Looking to elevate your camp experience? For over 25 years, Commercial Recreation Specialists has been transforming camps with water inflatables, Splashpads, playgrounds, and more! Boost your programming, drive registrations, and attract more campers. Our team of Recreation Specialists is here to help you design the ultimate space. Let’s take your camp to the next level – because we’re serious about FUN! Find out more at https://crs4rec.com/CampMinderCampminder has the most robust offerings of features out there. But more importantly, every feature works together to create a full, seamless system that helps camps run more efficiently. Visit them today at campminder.com

Send us a textFind full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/sunrise-campsThe Sunrise Association: Transforming Lives of kids affected by Childhood CancerThe Sunrise Day Camps started as an optimistic idea less than 20 years ago- and has grown into an unbelievably wonderful reality in which 2500 children- cancer patients, survivors, and their siblings- attended day camps last summer for no charge, with no wait lists- ever! Overall, they serve over 60,000 children each year through their day camps, year-round hospital programs and virtual programs. No organization has ever done anything like this in the camp space, their story is super-inspiring, and we can’t wait to share it with you all.Highlights:02:21 The Genesis of Sunrise Association05:05 First Camp and Recruitment Challenges16:50 Eligibility and Long-Term Impact22:46 Hospital Programs and Expansion31:10 Flexible Attendance for Campers34:13 Data Analysis and Communication Strategies39:23 Communication and Enrollment Process41:34 Expanding Camp Locations and Services44:35 Impact of the Pandemic on Camp Operations45:31 Virtual Programming and Hospital Outreach50:44 Fundraising Strategies and Community Support-Links from this Episode:www.sunriseassociation.orgSunrise Association Intro Video - https://www.youtube.com/c/SunriseAssociation-Your Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictAileen Hoffman, Senior Vice President - Strategic Expansion, Sunrise AssociationDeanna Slade, Vice President of Camping and Related Services, Sunrise Association-Sponsors:AMSkierAMSkier is a leading insurance and strategic partner for many of the finest camps in America. AMSkier partners with camps to provide public relations, legal, medical, behavior support and more - Experience the AMSkier difference. Learn more at amskier.com.Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) Looking to elevate your camp experience? For over 25 years, Commercial Recreation Specialists has been transforming camps with water inflatables, Splashpads, playgrounds, and more! Boost your programming, drive registrations, and attract more campers. Our team of Recreation Specialists is here to help you design the ultimate space. Let’s take your camp to the next level – because we’re serious about FUN! Find out more at https://crs4rec.com/CampMinderCampminder has the most robust offerings of features out there. But more importantly, every feature works together to create a full, seamless system that helps camps run more efficiently. Visit them today at campminder.com

Send us a textFind full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/new-owner-jasonWant to own your own camp? Here is the perfect case study from Jason Samuel! We've had a series of awesome podcasts this season with inspiring stories about making the jump to being a director or even an owner operator. Since we shared the Jonathan Gold podcast with our friends Howie and Kelly on the Camp Owners Pod, they're sharing back another great podcast with Andy’s former camp sidekick Jason Samuel, who recently found his way to becoming a camp owner operator himself.We're proud of you, Jason! This is the Day Camp Pod.Highlights: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 Questions-If you love the Day Camp Pod, we would be grateful if you subscribed and left us a review. It’s SUPER easy, too! Just head to http://ratethispodcast.com/dcp-Your Hosts:Howie Grossinger - Co-owner/Director - Camp Robin Hood, Partner - Camp Walden & Madawaska CampsKelly Schuna - Owner - Hidden Pines RanchJason Samuel - Owner & Director - The Nature Place-Sponsors:Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible:AMSkierAMSkier is a leading insurance and strategic partner for many of the finest camps in America. AMSkier partners with camps to provide public relations, legal, medical, behavior support and more - Experience the AMSkier difference. Learn more at amskier.com.Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) Looking to elevate your camp experience? For over 25 years, Commercial Recreation Specialists has been transforming camps with water inflatables, Splashpads, playgrounds, and more! Boost your programming, drive registrations, and attract more campers. Our team of Recreation Specialists is here to help you design the ultimate space. Let’s take your camp to the next level – because we’re serious about FUN! Find out more at https://crs4rec.com/CampMinderCampminder has the most robust offerings of features out there. But more importantly, every feature works together to create a full, seamless system that helps camps run more efficiently. Visit them today at campminder.comPlease review and subscribe!If you’ve gotten even one good thing from the Day Camp Pod, we would be so grateful if you left us a review and subscribed to this show in your favourite Podcast app.It’s so easy! Just click here: