Camp Code - Leadership & Staff Training Podcast for Camp Directors

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://www.gocamp.pro/campcode/navigatinghardconvopt2Hard Conversations, Real PracticeIn this second installment on having hard conversations, Beth and Gabrielle welcome back HR consultant and longtime camp person Diane Slater to do what staff training needs most: practice. Moving through real camp scenarios, they dig into how leaders can stay clear and kind when feedback gets messy. Diane starts with the “defensive star”—the beloved staff member who shuts down whenever coaching arrives—and reminds us to lead with safety, reflect specific behaviors (not assumed motives), and sometimes even give people time to process before they can really hear what’s being said. From there, they tackle gossip as camp’s unofficial currency, not by demonizing it, but by naming intent and impact: what’s the staff member trying to get from sharing, and how does it land on the people around them?The episode keeps building into tougher terrain: chronic excuse-makers, entitled veterans challenging new directors, emotionally flooded staff, and even outright denial or lying. Across each situation, Diane’s throughline is consistent—anchor on facts, ask what someone can control, use curiosity over confrontation, and prepare your key points ahead of time so you don’t get pulled off course by tears, anger, or a debate that isn’t actually up for debate. -Best Practice for Leadership TrainingFrom Diane,When a staff member has to be let go, the work isn’t over once they leave. Diane reminds leaders that the rest of the team is still living and working together, and everyone will react differently—some with relief, some with sadness, some with judgment, and some with gossip. Because of that, leaders need to follow three key steps: first, debrief with the leadership team to reflect on what was missed and how to catch or prevent similar issues earlier (even back at hiring). Second, support the remaining staff by addressing the departure at a high level—grounding it in camper safety and team wellbeing—while protecting the privacy and dignity of the person who left. Third, actively monitor morale, normalize mixed emotions, and invite staff to process with leadership if they need to. The goal is clarity without cruelty, and reassurance that feedback and consequences are communicated clearly, not sprung on people out of nowhere.Special Guest:Diane Slater, Camp HR ConsultantYour Hosts:Beth Allison, Camp Consultant - Go Camp ProGabrielle Raill, Camp Director - Camp OuareauThanks 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 ultracampmanagemnent.com/campcode.Measure twice! Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis. Stop flying blind: Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis.

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://www.gocamp.pro/campcode/howtoaskforhelpThe Art of Asking for HelpIn this episode of Camp Code, Beth and Gabrielle sit down with Kelly Schuna to unpack why asking for help has become such a critical leadership skill for camp staff. They explore the mix of pressures keeping people quiet—fear of looking incapable, low trust, and a generation used to solving problems through phones or having adults step in automatically. The point they keep returning to is that hesitation to ask isn’t stubbornness; it’s vulnerability and lack of practice, and camp culture has to respond to that intentionally.From there, they zoom out to what camps can do: leaders must model asking for help themselves, make it explicitly expected from day one, and build simple routines that invite questions before problems snowball. Whether it’s regular check-ins, clear frameworks for how to speak up, or structured moments like office hours and “parking lot” notes, the goal is the same—normalize support-seeking as smart, team-centered leadership. At camp, no one should have to figure it out alone.-Best Practice for Leadership TrainingFrom Kelly,One thing I implemented this past summer was office hours. I’ve noticed that staff often don’t know when to ask for help, or they hold back because they don’t want to interrupt or feel like a burden. Having a predictable time when they know they can find me makes that step easier. At my day camp, I used the walk back from Final Circle toward the center of camp as a natural moment for staff to connect with me, whether they needed support, had a question, or just wanted to share something that went well.Another idea I tried was a parking lot system. I set out a clipboard in a central camp space where staff could leave notes for me when something wasn’t urgent but was still on their mind. It gave them a low-pressure way to flag questions or concerns they didn’t want to forget, and it helped surface small issues early before they had a chance to linger or grow. Between office hours and the parking lot, staff had more than one clear, simple path to reach out.Special Guest:Kelly Schuna, Owner and Executive at Hidden Pines RanchYour Hosts:Beth Allison, Camp Consultant - Go Camp ProGabrielle Raill, Camp Director - Camp OuareauThanks 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 ultracampmanagemnent.com/campcode.Measure twice! Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis. Stop flying blind: Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis.

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://www.gocamp.pro/campcode/navigatingdifficultconversations2025How to Have Tough Staff Conversations with Clarity and CompassionLet’s face it—having tough conversations with staff who aren’t meeting expectations can feel downright uncomfortable. At camp, where relationships and community are everything, addressing performance issues can seem at odds with the culture of care and belonging we work so hard to build. Too often, directors and leadership staff hesitate to give feedback because they fear defensiveness, gossip, or escalation. But avoiding those conversations can quietly erode team trust and weaken your camp culture.In this episode of Camp Code, Beth and Gabrielle sit down with HR consultant and lifelong camp enthusiast Diane Slater to explore how camp leaders can give clear, compassionate feedback that supports accountability without sacrificing empathy. Drawing on her extensive experience in human resources and her deep love of camp, Diane shares practical frameworks for how to approach difficult discussions, how to handle tears, anger, and denial, and how to prevent frustration from festering across your team.-Best Practice for Leadership TrainingFrom Diane,Sometimes, despite coaching and multiple chances, a staff member doesn’t change. When you and your leadership team no longer believe improvement will happen, it’s time to part ways. Think of it like baseball: after three solid attempts, if behavior hasn’t changed, they’re out. Keeping someone who ignores feedback signals that the behavior is acceptable, invites others to copy it, and slowly poisons your culture.The exit itself can be clear and respectful because you’ve already documented expectations and tried to help. You can say, “Unfortunately, today will be your last day with our camp—the behavior hasn’t changed and it’s not working.” It’s hard, but you’ll often hear relief from others afterward; leaders rarely see the full iceberg until stories surface once action is taken. When you’ve set expectations in writing and offered real coaching, ending employment can be the healthiest choice for the team and the campers you serve.Special Guest:Diane Slater, Camp HR ConsultantYour Hosts:Beth Allison, Camp Consultant - Go Camp ProGabrielle Raill, Camp Director - Camp OuareauThanks 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 ultracampmanagemnent.com/campcode.Measure twice! Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis. Stop flying blind: Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis.

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://www.gocamp.pro/campcode/phonedownleadingpresenceBreaking the Phone Habit: Leading with Presence at CampIn the latest episode of Camp Code, the hosts tackle a growing challenge for camp directors: managing cell phone use while fostering an unplugged, connected camp culture. They explore how to shift from enforcing strict no-phone rules to celebrating off-phone time as part of what makes camp special. Through creative ideas like “disconnect to reconnect” challenges, mindful moments, and intentional “third spaces” for connection, the hosts show how camps can replace digital distractions with meaningful, real-world engagement.Beth and Gabz offers practical strategies for integrating technology thoughtfully, such as clear expectations, designated camp phones, and staff training to understand and address phone addiction. By approaching phone use with empathy and structure, camp leaders can create environments where presence and connection thrive—proving that true leadership begins when we put the phone down and show up for each other.-Best Practice for Leadership TrainingFrom Gabz,This summer, I learned a powerful leadership lesson from one of my team members who showed up to camp with a flip phone. She’d intentionally swapped her smartphone for something simpler—no social media, no endless scrolling, just the essentials. Watching her made me realize how much of our phone use isn’t about communication, but about distraction. It inspired me to consider using a flip phone myself next season, not as a step backward, but as a way to model intentional leadership. By choosing presence over convenience, we can show our teams that leading well sometimes starts with putting limits on ourselves.Your Hosts:Beth Allison, Camp Consultant - Go Camp ProGabrielle Raill, Camp Director - Camp OuareauThanks 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 ultracampmanagemnent.com/campcode.Measure twice! Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis. Stop flying blind: Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis.

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://www.gocamp.pro/campcode/cultureinclusion2025Building Bridges: Inclusive Leadership in Camp CultureIn this episode of Camp Code by GoCamp.Pro, the hosts discuss the importance of integrating peripheral staff members, such as kitchen, maintenance, and admin staff, into the camp community. They emphasize that running a camp should focus on people rather than paperwork, and they share practical ideas for including these essential team members in daily, weekly, and camp-wide activities. Strategies include sharing stories, creating a buddy system, and recognizing their contributions through various forms of appreciation and training. The goal is to foster a positive and inclusive camp culture where all staff members feel seen, celebrated, and connected. -Best Practice for Leadership TrainingFrom BethBy scheduling at least two moments of recognition each day—whether it’s fun facts at flag, shoutouts for drivers, a kitchen crew dinner served by program staff, or camper-written thank-you notes—you create an ongoing rhythm that reinforces belonging and respect across all teams. The key isn’t the size or extravagance of each gesture, but the consistency and inclusivity of your approach. Rotating themes and involving campers keeps it fresh and ensures everyone feels valued. Over time, these daily touchpoints layer together to create a strong, positive culture where appreciation becomes a natural, shared habit.-Your Hosts:Beth Allison, Camp Consultant - Go Camp ProGabrielle Raill, Camp Director - Camp OuareauThanks 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 ultracampmanagemnent.com/campcode.Measure twice! Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis. Stop flying blind: Take your free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic at https://camp.mba/travis.

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://www.gocamp.pro/campcode/leadershipstrategieswithtravisLeadership, Resilience & Rekindling Passion in Camp OperationsIn this episode of Camp Code, hosts Gabz, and Beth Allison return for the twelfth season to explore leadership training, industry updates, and practical strategies to support camp directors in a post-pandemic landscape. The trio dives into key operational challenges and introduces the Resilient Camp Blueprint, a new framework designed to help directors maintain focus, manage burnout, and improve systems with simple, daily changes.Gabz reflects on her recent transition out of a full-time camp role and shares insights from her time at Camp Ouareau, while Travis and Beth highlight the growing complexity of leadership development and the urgent need for intentional support in the industry. The team discusses Gen Z staff dynamics, emphasizing the shift away from traditional evaluations and toward collaborative feedback.The episode introduces essential tools for efficient camp management, including the PATH framework (Protect, Amplify, Trim, Humanize) and a compass rose that centers camp operations on four foundational P’s: People, Place, Programs, and Protection. These concepts encourage directors to streamline processes while staying true to their camp's mission and values. Addressing director burnout, Travis shares how the Resilient Camp Blueprint was inspired by conversations with leaders post-COVID, where the need for rest, creativity, and sustainable practices became clear. The group discusses strategies for cultural stability, staff retention, and embracing "2-second lean" changes that compound over time to create lasting impact.Illustration of the PATH Framework and the four P’sWe hope you love this episode of Camp Code! If you do, please consider subscribing to the show, and leaving us a rating in your Podcast app. It’s SO easy, just head to https://ratethispodcast.com/campcode-Best Practice for Leadership TrainingFrom TravisAt camp, problems can feel endless—but most of them come down to just three things: self-esteem, systems, or structures of power. Is someone acting out because they need reassurance or confidence? That’s self-esteem. Are drop-off, cleanup, or bag-packing always a mess? That’s systems. Do certain people feel unseen or unheard because of bias or unspoken dynamics? That’s structures of power. When you start looking through this lens, you’ll notice almost every challenge falls into one—or sometimes two—of these categories, and the path forward becomes clearer.-Special Guest: Travis Allison ,  Co-Founder GoCamp.Pro - A call to action to fill our your own free Resilient Camp Blueprint Diagnostic awaits! Your Hosts:Beth Allison, Camp Consultant - Go Camp ProGabrielle Raill, Camp Director - Camp OuareauThanks 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 ultracampmanagemnent.com/campcode.

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://www.gocamp.pro/campcode/summerhealthchecklist2025Camp Health Essentials: Expert Tips for a Safe SummerIn this episode of Camp Code, hosts Gabrielle and Beth speak with Dr. Amy Greer, an infectious disease expert, about maintaining a healthy camp environment. They discuss key health risks such as COVID-19, measles, and whooping cough, and the importance of vaccination, hand hygiene, and outdoor activities. Practical tips for dealing with sick campers, the relevance of proper air quality and public health protocols, and busting myths about hand sanitizer and virus evolution are also covered. This episode offers invaluable insights for camp leaders to ensure the safety and well-being of their campers and staff.We hope you love this episode of Camp Code! If you do, please consider subscribing to the show, and leaving us a rating in your Podcast app. It’s SO easy, just head to https://ratethispodcast.com/campcode-Best Practice for Leadership TrainingFrom AmyAs we continue to look for ways to improve health and safety at camp, it's important to consider not just infectious diseases, but also broader environmental factors that can impact the well-being of both kids and staff. One resource that might be new and valuable to you is the Canadian Partnership for Children's Health and Environment.Their website, HealthyEnvironmentForKids.ca, offers a wealth of information on air quality risks — including the impact of wildfire smoke and air pollution. These are increasingly relevant concerns, especially in outdoor camp settings.Whether you're preparing for the season or updating your safety protocols, this site provides practical, research-based guidance to help you create a healthier environment for everyone at camp. It's definitely worth a visit.-Special Guest: Amy Greer,  Infectious Disease Epidemiologist and Professor at Trent University  - https://www.amygreer.caYour Hosts:Beth Allison, Camp Consultant - Go Camp ProGabrielle Raill, Camp Director - Camp Ouareau-Thanks to our sponsors…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 ultracampmanagemnent.com/campcode.BowlineHQCamp 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. 

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://www.gocamp.pro/campcode/creating-safer-braver-spacesInclusive Leadership at Camp: Insights from Simone GambleIn this episode of Camp Code, hosts Gabrielle and Beth sit down with Simone Gamble from OAAARS to discuss creating safer spaces for BIPOC communities through intersectional, anti-oppressive lenses. Simone shares the importance of using play as a tool for justice education, the impact of the Kids Already program, and how camps can implement these practices to build inclusive and supportive environments. Simone's insights offer camp professionals a chance to reflect on their identities and approaches, encouraging ethical allyship and transformative change within camp culture.We hope you love this episode of Camp Code! If you do, please consider subscribing to the show, and leaving us a rating in your Podcast app. It’s SO easy, just head to https://ratethispodcast.com/campcode-Best Practice for Leadership TrainingFrom SimoneIn conversations about supporting young people, a common fear is "getting it wrong." But making mistakes is part of the process. The speaker shares that their journey began with the fear of saying the wrong thing—but instead of holding back, that fear became a catalyst to take action. The message is clear: young people aren't expecting perfection; they're looking for honesty, effort, and growth. The worst mistake is doing nothing at all. Now more than ever, we need to create safe spaces for youth to talk openly about the world around them, especially on topics once considered taboo. If we don’t start these crucial conversations now, we risk missing the chance entirely. The time for action—and for trying, even imperfectly—is now.-Special Guest: Simone Gamble, Founder - OAAARSYour Hosts:Beth Allison, Camp Consultant - Go Camp ProGabrielle Raill, Camp Director - Camp Ouareau-Thanks to our sponsors…BowlineHQCamp 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. 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 ultracampmanagemnent.com/campcode.

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://www.gocamp.pro/campcode/12-things-you-should-be-focused-on-as-the-camp-season-approachesPreparing for Camp Season: Key Focus Areas for SuccessAs the much-anticipated camp season draws closer, it's essential for camp leaders to shift their focus onto key areas that ensure a successful and enriching experience for everyone involved. In the latest episode of Camp Code, Beth and Gabrielle share their top recommendations catering to staff, campers, and personal preparations for camp leaders.We hope you love this episode of Camp Code! If you do, please consider subscribing to the show, and leaving us a rating in your Podcast app. It’s SO easy, just head to https://ratethispodcast.com/campcode-Best Practice for Leadership TrainingFrom GabrielleOne of the most valuable decisions I’ve made in my career was volunteering with both my provincial and national camp associations. While I recognize that volunteering is a privilege not everyone can afford, it became a powerful investment in my professional development and helped me build a strong, supportive network.I want to encourage camp professionals—especially those who are newer to the field—not to hesitate in reaching out to your state, provincial, or national associations. It’s easy to feel like your camp is “too small” or your question “too basic,” but these organizations are here for you—not just in crisis, but for learning, guidance, and everyday questions.Whether you're worried about finances, curious about emerging health concerns, or simply feeling unsure, your association is a resource. Think of it like a staff member coming to you for help—it’s not a burden, it’s an opportunity for meaningful support and growth. Associations welcome those conversations with the same enthusiasm.You don’t have to navigate challenges alone. Reach out. Ask questions. Build connections. You belong in this community, and your association is excited to walk alongside you.-Your Hosts:Beth Allison, Camp Consultant - Go Camp ProGabrielle Raill, Camp Director - Camp Ouareau-Thanks to our sponsors…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 ultracampmanagemnent.com/campcode.BowlineHQCamp 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. 

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://www.camphacker.tv/camp-code/engaging-multigenerational-staff-during-trainingA Great Episode From The Archives!Beth and Gabz are still in full-on conference season wrap up so we'll be back with a new episode in two weeks.In the meantime, here's a "Camp Code Classic!" - our most downloaded episode.Enjoy!Multigenerational staff may not be applicable to your camp today, but it absolutely will happen at some point, and what better time to have this in the back of your mind as summer camps eagerly way and adjust to many new guidelines being put in place as the worldwide pandemic continues. Multigenerational staff means that some younger staff may still live at home, not be used to doing laundry, or that their summer at camp may be their first job. At the same time, the older staff probably have car payments, or a mortgage or is used to going to bed at an earlier time than 18-year-olds. Additionally, there is a physical layer to an older generation staff where they may not be able to crawl on the ground, or have other limitations. In Ruby’s experience, she asked herself during any game “can rock paper scissors resolve this” and in most cases, the answer is yes and most people at any age can play rock paper scissors, so it is a great alternative to something like crawling under someone’s legs in freeze tag. As we wrap our season, we hope all you leaders are ready for what summer brings us. We all know camp will be different this summer, but camp is still at heart, summer camp leaders. For everyone who has tuned in to this season, have a great summer and we look forward to more conversations in the fall. -Leadership Training Best PracticeFrom Gabrielle RaillEven though this best practice is from Gabrielle, it was Ruby that brought it up on another podcast. When you are designing camp training for the summer, bring your leadership in on the conversation. Send your leadership team an outline of the staff training and some of the decisions behind what you want to keep and what you want to change. Open the dialogue with your leadership team to see how decisions are made. -Your Hosts:Gabrielle Raill, Camp Director - Camp OuareauBeth Allison, Camp Consultant - CampHacker.tvRuby Compton, Chief Exploration Officer - Ruby Outdoors