The Day Camp Pod - From Go Camp Pro

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:

Send us a textFind full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/intentional-campLet’s welcome our friend Michael from Chicago back to the Day Camp Pod!Character and Youth Development are snappy little catchphrases that camp pros love to use. Mostly in their marketing pitches, brochures, and websites. And for at least three decades, Michael Brandwein has been spoonfeeding camp professionals how to not just talk the talk, but how to walk the walk. Yes, I am a convert, and an advocate for what Michael preaches- teaching our campers and staff the skills of life, and doing it in an engaging, upbeat, fun way. He’s the high exalted grandmaster of camp consulting, he’s OUR Fred Rodgers, and he’s back again- THIS, is the Day Camp Pod!-Links from this Episode:Michael’s Book - The Intentional Camp: Putting More Muscle in the Mission of Character & Youth DevelopmentUpcoming Michael Brandwein Seminars Register for Brandwein on Training: The Step-by-Step System for Planning & Presenting Your Best Staff Training EverRegister for Super Staff SuperVision: The Quick Course on Outstanding Skills to Coach, Motivate, & Bring Out the Best in StaffSign Up for More Info About The Brandwein Super Seminar on Dynamic & Intentional Camp Leadership-Your Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictMichael Brandwein, Speaker, Trainer and Author - https://www.michaelbrandwein.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/inclusion2025Inclusion Best Practices for Summer CampsAre you looking to create a truly inclusive camp environment where every child feels welcome and supported?  In this episode of the Day Camp Pod, we dive deep into the world of inclusion for special needs campers with expert guests Sabrina Hinkens and Sari Grossinger.Sabrina and Sari share invaluable insights on intake processes, staff training, communication strategies, and the importance of collaboration with families and support agencies. Discover how to navigate the challenges of inclusion, from managing expectations to adapting activities and creating a sense of belonging for all campers.This episode is a must-listen for any camp professional seeking to improve their inclusion practices and create a positive and enriching experience for every child. Tune in to gain practical advice, inspiring stories, and a renewed passion for making your camp a place where everyone shines!-Links from this Episode:Find them at Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/inclusion2025-Your Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictSari Grossinger, Owner/Director Camp Robin Hood, Co-Owner Camp Walden/Madawaska CampsSabrina Hinkens, Youth Program Manager - Gurnee Park District  -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/CamptivitiesScheduling shouldn’t be so difficult and take as much time as it does! Come check out Camptivities to learn about all of our scheduling tools, specifically designed for camps by camp people. Save time, get rid of the mistakes, and get back to enjoying your summer! Find out more at camptivities.comCampMinderCampminder 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/assembliesCamp Assemblies - The Secret Sauce of Camp SpiritJoin us for an exciting episode of The Day Camp Pod where we discover how to bring the magic of sleepaway camp to your day camp. Hosts Andy Pritikin and Sam Thompson welcome two experienced camp directors: Stacey Kotelov from Banner Day Camp and Dylan Wade from Emerald Cove. Stacey discusses Banner's beloved traditions like the 'Bannerama,' a lively morning and afternoon assembly filled with songs, moments of gratitude, and community-building activities. Dylan shares how Emerald Cove uses 'Amp Up' and 'Amp Down' assemblies to create a strong community through music, skits, and recognizing campers' character. Learn how to involve your staff, make the most of your existing traditions, and create a camp culture where everyone feels included. Listen for advice and examples to help make your day camp experience unforgettable. Tune in now!-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-Links from this Episode:Find them at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/assemblies-Your Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictDylan Wade, Camp Director - Emerald Cove Day CampStacy Kotelov - Owner - Banner Day Camp-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/CamptivitiesScheduling shouldn’t be so difficult and take as much time as it does! Come check out Camptivities to learn about all of our scheduling tools, specifically designed for camps by camp people. Save time, get rid of the mistakes, and get back to enjoying your summer! Find out more at camptivities.comCampMinderCampminder 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