The CampHacker Podcast

CampHacker - from Go Camp Pro
  • 5.0 (15)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

CampHacker Podcast helps camp directors solve real problems and build resilient camps. Each episode gives practical tips for recruiting, keeping, and teaching camp staff. The hosts talk about true stories, share ways to make camp stronger, and help leaders prepare for tough situations. They focus on making summer camps last longer and bring the biggest positive change to kids and young adults. You’ll hear easy steps, fresh ideas, and real conversations that help directors run better camps and create spaces where everyone can grow.The CampHacker Podcast is hosted by Travis Allison and Chris Hudson. Travis is known for his creative ideas and caring advice for camp leaders across North America. He brings years of experience and speaks at big conferences to help directors make camps stronger and more resilient. Chris partners with Travis on every episode, working together to answer tough questions and share helpful steps for camp leaders. Their teamwork and passion help directors make the best choices for their camps, staff, and campers.

  1. 5D AGO · BONUS

    Howie Grossinger on Progress, Perfection, and 80 Years of Camp - Intentionally Intentional Leaders

    Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/camphacker/iil-howie-g High Expectations, Higher Support: A Masterclass in Legacy Leadership with Howie GrossingerIn this episode of Intentionally Intentional Leaders, host Matt Wilfrid sits down with a living legend of the summer camp world: Howie Grossinger. As the co-owner of Camp Robin Hood and a pillar of the Ontario Camps Association, Howie brings over three decades of wisdom to a conversation that goes far beyond budget lines and schedules. Using the randomness of a 20-sided die, Howie opens up about the moments that shaped him, from a sliding-doors moment where he almost chose dentistry over camp, to the early mentorship of Larry Bell that taught him the weight of responsibility. This episode is a deep dive into what it means to lead with a "safety net" mentality and how to maintain a personal touch in an increasingly digital world. Key Takeaways include: The Power of the Pivot: Howie reflects on his transition from a planned career in health sciences to finding his "blood" in the youth education and camp space. It’s a reminder for camp pros that our "why" often finds us when we’re open to mentorship.Progress Over Perfection in Staffing: In a world obsessed with finding the "perfect fit," Howie argues for choosing coachability and heart over a flawless resume. By acting as a safety net for staff, directors can allow their teams the grace to grow into their roles.Engineering Belonging: While belonging is cultivated through relationships, Howie explains how it can be designed through intentional touchpoints. Whether it’s a personalized video message (using tools like Bonjoro) or a specific arrival system, the "feeling" of camp must be consistent from the first Zoom call to the last bus of the summer.Legacy and Resilience: Celebrating 80 years of Camp Robin Hood, Howie discusses the beauty of generational connection, where grandparents stand on the same docks as their grandchildren, and how leaning on a network of peers is the best defense against industry "despair."High Expectations, High Support: Borrowing from the philosophy of David Yeager, Howie emphasizes that the best leaders don't lower the bar; they simply increase the level of support provided to help their staff clear it.- Your HostsMatt Wilfrid, Executive Producer of Podcasting at Go Camp ProHowie Grossinger - Co-owner/Director - Camp Robin Hood, Partner - Camp Walden & Madawaska Camps- Thanks to our sponsor!Whereabouts Your mission is campers. Ours is making their experience coordinated and connected. Whereabouts is the only camper management system that keeps Parents, Admin, and Staff in sync in real time — so every camper’s day runs with confidence, clarity, and care. Check them out whereaboutsapp.io --- Fill out the 2026 Podcast Survey by February 28th and enter your email for a chance to with a $250 gift card from our friends at Gopher Sport. Find it at gocamp.pro/podsurvey Our free Resilient Camp Blueprint diagnostic is available at: https://camp.mba/travis

    53 min

  2. FEB 9 · BONUS

    How "Whereabouts" is Solving the Camp Director’s Biggest Headache - with Ryan Rosen

    Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Clipboards, Kaizen, and Connection: Revolutionizing Camp Attendance with Ryan Rosen *This is a piece of sponsored content by our friends from Camptivities and Whereabouts. We are so grateful for Ryan and the Camptivities team for their support of many Go Camp Pro podcasts and we're excited to bring you this episode and share more about Whereabouts - Check them out whereaboutsapp.io* -- In this episode, Travis sits down with Ryan Rosen, a 28-year camp veteran and owner of a premier Los Angeles day camp, to discuss the intersection of "tech-free" camp philosophy and high-efficiency logistics. Ryan shares the origin story of Whereabouts, an innovative app designed to bridge the communication gap between parents and camp offices. From the "Spirit of Kaizen" to real-time attendance reconciliation, this conversation explores how small, iterative improvements in camp tech can lead to massive gains in safety, staff sanity, and parent satisfaction. Key Takeaways include: The Spirit of Kaizen: Success isn't always about massive overhauls; it’s about the "incremental improvement" of systems. By questioning why "we’ve always done it this way," directors can identify stagnant procedures - like where T-shirts are handed out or how attendance is taken - and refine them for a better experience.Closing the "Lunchtime Gap": Many camps don't fully reconcile bus lists with group rosters until midday. Ryan explains how real-time widgets allow directors to know exactly who is on-site before the morning assembly even ends, meeting modern parent expectations for safety and transparency.Passive vs. Active Engagement: There is a fine line between "convenient" tech and "isolating" tech. Ryan discusses moving away from passive check-ins (like unattended QR codes) toward "human-powered" technology that prompts staff with camper birthdays or medical alerts during the check-in process.Empowering Gen-Z and Alpha Staff: Modern summer staff are digital natives. Asking them to manage complex paper-and-pen systems often leads to errors. Providing them with intuitive, mobile-first tools like Whereabouts aligns with their skills and reduces operational friction.Tech-Enabled Emergency Safety: Beyond daily attendance, the episode highlights the importance of "Emergency Pods." In the event of a wildfire or evacuation, having a cellular-connected system to track which kids are on which bus in real-time is a critical safety upgrade for any modern camp.--- Thanks to Camptivities and Whereabouts for sponsoring! Your mission is campers. Ours is making their experience coordinated and connected. Whereabouts is the only camper management system that keeps Parents, Admin, and Staff in sync in real time - so every camper’s day runs with confidence, clarity, and care. Check them out at whereaboutsapp.io --- Fill out the 2026 Podcast Survey by February 28th and enter your email for a chance to with a $250 gift card from our friends at Gopher Sport. Find it at gocamp.pro/podsurvey Our free Resilient Camp Blueprint diagnostic is available at: https://camp.mba/travis

    32 min

  3. FEB 5

    Winning over Parents, with Dan Weir and Suzanne Ross - CampHacker #225

    Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/camphacker/winning-over-parents - Adapting to New Parent Expectations Modern parents view summer camp as a significant investment, rather than a simple recreational activity. This episode breaks down why safety and skill-building now outperform traditional marketing. It offers practical advice on removing camp jargon and using professional tones to build lasting trust with protective families. You will learn how to win over parents by focusing on their child’s personhood during every interaction, from the first tour to the final checkout. Key Takeaways: Prioritize Skill Building Over Recreation. Parents today view summer programs as a financial investment toward the future of their child. To compete with travel sports you must articulate the specific developmental gains and educational value your camp provides.Focus on the Child to Win the Parent. Trust is established when directors engage directly with the child during recruitment. Making a genuine connection with a camper signals to the parent that your organization is observant and capable of providing emotional safety.Eliminate Barriers Created by Jargon. Internal nicknames and camp shorthand make new families feel like outsiders. Using clear and descriptive language ensures that every family feels the program was designed specifically for their needs.- Your HostsTravis Allison, Summer Camp Consultant - Go Camp ProChris Hudson, Camp Consultant. Contact EmailDan Weir, Camp Consultant Immersive1st, Day Camp CommunitySuzanne Ross, Camp Safety Network Consultant. Contact Email   -   Rate and Review the CampHacker Show (Thank you!) - Thanks to our sponsors!UltraCamp Running camp comes with enough moving parts. UltraCamp keeps registration, payments, and communication in one place—so you can spend less time juggling systems and more time building an incredible camp experience. Learn more at ultracampmanagement.com/camphacker. --- Fill out the 2026 Podcast Survey by February 28th and enter your email for a chance to with a $250 gift card from our friends at Gopher Sport. Find it at gocamp.pro/podsurvey Our free Resilient Camp Blueprint diagnostic is available at: https://camp.mba/travis

    54 min

  4. JAN 22

    Welcoming New Campers, with Kim Aycock, and Michael Brandwein - CampHacker #224

    Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/camphacker/welcoming-new-campers - Winning Over First-Time Campers on Day OneThis episode provides a masterclass on transforming the high-stakes environment of opening day into a welcoming and inclusive experience for every child. Learn how to break down the psychological and logistical barriers that often make first-time campers feel like outsiders. By focusing on intentional preparation, empathy-driven staff training, and subtle shifts in camp traditions, leaders can ensure that the "welcome home" starts long before the family car pulls into the gate. Key Takeaways: Implement a Camper Liaison Program. Designating a specific staff member to connect with new families via Zoom or phone calls before camp helps lower anxiety for both parents and children. These sessions allow kids to ask small but vital questions like what food is served or where the bathrooms are located, which helps them feel seen and prepared.Apply the Pass Down Principle during Training. The way leadership treats staff during orientation becomes the blueprint for how staff treat campers. If you want counsellors to give a warm and energetic greeting, you must model that exact behaviour the moment they arrive for staff training.Audit Your Traditions for Inclusivity. Use a Sherlock Holmes perspective to notice things that have become invisible to you over time. This includes checking if your opening day games are "out games" that might embarrass a new camper or ensuring your "Welcome Home" greeting feels authentic rather than intimidating for someone who has never been there before. Your HostsTravis Allison, Summer Camp Consultant - Go Camp ProChris Hudson, Camp Consultant. Contact EmailKim Aycock, Camp Consultant and Staff TrainerMichael Brandwein, Camp Consultant, Writer-  Rate and Review the CampHacker Show (Thank you!) - Thanks to our sponsors!UltraCamp Running camp comes with enough moving parts. UltraCamp keeps registration, payments, and communication in one place—so you can spend less time juggling systems and more time building an incredible camp experience. Learn more at ultracampmanagement.com/camphacker. Camptivities If you’re still making camp schedules in spreadsheets, you know how draining it is and how often mistakes slip in. Enter Camptivities. It’s made by camp people, for camp people - to save time, cut errors, and make camp run smoother. Be the change your camp needs - explore sma --- Fill out the 2026 Podcast Survey by February 28th and enter your email for a chance to with a $250 gift card from our friends at Gopher Sport. Find it at gocamp.pro/podsurvey Our free Resilient Camp Blueprint diagnostic is available at: https://camp.mba/travis

    1h 5m

  5. JAN 15 · BONUS

    Protecting Camp Culture and The Lasting Impact of a Soda Bottle - with Gabe Chernov - Intentionally Intentional Leaders

    Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/camphacker/iil-gabe-c The End of the "Magic" Myth: Gabe Chernov on Engineering Social-Emotional Growth In this episode of Intentionally Intentional Leaders, Travis Allison talks with Gabe Chernov, the owner and director of Birch Trail Camp for Girls. They explore the small interactions that stick with us forever and the systems Gabe uses to build a resilient camp culture. Gabe talks about the deep impact of a camp director’s letter during a time he felt childhood homesickness and how he uses that same spirit of mentorship today. They dive into the post-COVID challenges of youth development, which led Birch Trail to create a custom values-based board game to help campers talk about their feelings. Whether he is explaining the process of scaffolding a wilderness trip or the non-negotiable need for eight hours of sleep, Gabe shows how to lead with a mix of data and empathy. Key Takeaways for Camp Professionals The Power of the Nothing Moment. Gabe and Travis discuss how a tiny interaction, like learning the right way to drink from a glass soda bottle, can stay with a person for decades. Gabe uses these stories to remind his staff that they are always making a permanent impact even when they do not realize it.Gamifying Values and Empathy. To help kids with the social effects of the pandemic, Birch Trail developed a physical board game and value cards. This tool gives campers the specific language they need to express gratitude and work through feelings within their cabin group.Scaffolding for Growth. Gabe describes camp as a process by design. By carefully planning every activity and wilderness trip, directors create a safe environment where campers are encouraged to fail, learn from that failure, and build true resilience.The Midnight Rule for Staff Wellness. Long before sleep science was a major trend in the industry, Gabe implemented a mandatory midnight shutdown for staff lounges. He talks about the importance of being unpopular in the short term to protect the long-term health and safety of the counselors.Distinguishing Needs from Demands. With parent advocacy on the rise, Gabe shares his framework for saying no. He breaks down the difference between an individual demand and a communal need, explaining that a camp must say no when a request hurts the collective experience of the cabin.Connect with Gabe. If you have questions about Birch Trail’s programming or their values board game, you can reach out to Gabe Chernov at Gabe@birchtrail.com. --- Fill out the 2026 Podcast Survey by February 28th and enter your email for a chance to with a $250 gift card from our friends at Gopher Sport. Find it at gocamp.pro/podsurvey Our free Resilient Camp Blueprint diagnostic is available at: https://camp.mba/travis

    30 min

  6. JAN 8

    The Enrollment Cliff, with Jake Sorenson, Eric Wittenberg, and Stefanie Gillman - CampHacker #223

    Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/camphacker/the-enrollment-cliff - Preparing for the Demographic Shift of 2028 Join Travis Allison, Jake Sorenson, Eric Wittenberg, and Stefanie Gillman as they discuss the massive demographic shifts threatening the summer camp industry. The conversation centers on the "enrollment cliff", a sharp decline in birth rates that is already impacting higher education and is set to hit the camp industry's median age group by 2028. They explore why camps must move beyond their historically white, middle-class roots and start engaging diverse communities, alumni networks, and even older populations to ensure survival. - Tool of the Week - Make Yourself a Better Camp DirectorTravis - Joyful Belonging Newsletter by Casper ter KuileJake - Kenn Gronbach DemographerEric - Innovation AccountingStefanie - The Unstuck Box- Your HostsTravis Allison, Summer Camp Consultant - Go Camp ProJake Sorenson, Sacred Playgrounds DirectorEric Wittenberg, Camp Machine and Camp Stack CEOStefanie Gillman, Hofstra Summer Camps Director- Rate and Review the CampHacker Show (Thank you!) - Thanks to our sponsors!UltraCamp Running camp comes with enough moving parts. UltraCamp keeps registration, payments, and communication in one place—so you can spend less time juggling systems and more time building an incredible camp experience. Learn more at ultracampmanagement.com/camphacker. Whereabouts Your mission is campers. Ours is making their experience coordinated and connected. Whereabouts is the only camper management system that keeps Parents, Admin, and Staff in sync in real time — so every camper’s day runs with confidence, clarity, and care. Check them out at whereaboutsapp.io/ --- Fill out the 2026 Podcast Survey by February 28th and enter your email for a chance to with a $250 gift card from our friends at Gopher Sport. Find it at gocamp.pro/podsurvey Our free Resilient Camp Blueprint diagnostic is available at: https://camp.mba/travis

    56 min

  7. JAN 1

    Mission over Money, and Lifelong Camp Learning - with Sam Thompson - Intentionally Intentional Leaders

    Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/camphacker/iil-sam-t Lessons from 8 Seasons of the Day Camp Pod: Sam Thompson's Essential Rules for Day Camp DirectorsHello everybody and welcome back to the CampHacker Podcast. In this edition of the unique Intentionally Intentional interview series, Executive Producer Matt Wilfrid dives deep with Sam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor at Crystal Lake Park District, ACA Illinois Board Chair, and co-host of the long-running Day Camp Podcast. Moving through rounds of memories, insights, and beliefs, Sam shares the bedrock truths that guide her 30+ years in the youth development field. This conversation is essential listening for any camp leader who struggles with balancing organizational growth, financial pressure, and the core mission of providing a quality experience. Sam brings her signature "do a lot with a little" philosophy to tough topics like gaining (and maintaining) parent trust, managing imposter syndrome, and setting non-negotiable boundaries for staff accountability. Key Takeaways for Camp Professionals The Non-Negotiable Accountability: Learn Sam's precise strategy for handling parent complaints: always support staff first by gathering the full story. Accountability to children's safety and wellbeing, however, is the only non-negotiable line, with immediate action required for inappropriate behavior.The Park District Edge on Scaling: Sam reveals her decision rule when mission and money pull in different directions. She explains how to identify the "tipping point" where any further site expansion or growth would compromise the quality and core philosophy of the camp program.Fighting Imposter Syndrome: Sam shares powerful advice for younger professionals dealing with self-doubt. Her truth—that you have to work to put yourself "at the table"—is tempered by the need for mentorship and the confidence to own your expertise.Gaining Parent Trust in a Short Time: Discover the deep, impactful nature of short-term parent relationships in camping. Sam reflects on a powerful moment where a golf cart, a cheering crowd, and an overnight experience built unbreakable trust with a camper's father.The Unending Camp Career: Sam reassures listeners that a career in camping is as wide and varied as any other, encompassing everything from directorship to training, consulting, and building industry resources like the Day Camp Podcast.-Your HostsMatt Wilfrid, Executive Producer of Podcasting - Go Camp ProSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park District --- Fill out the 2026 Podcast Survey by February 28th and enter your email for a chance to with a $250 gift card from our friends at Gopher Sport. Find it at gocamp.pro/podsurvey Our free Resilient Camp Blueprint diagnostic is available at: https://camp.mba/travis

    31 min

  8. 2025-12-25

    Fundraising strategies for 2026, with Joe Richards and Heather Withrow - CampHacker #222

    Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/camphacker/fundraising-strategies-for-2026 - Strategies that work! The 2026 Playbook for Camp FundraisingIf you’re still fundraising like it’s 2019, you’re leaving money and mission on the table. In this deep-dive update, Travis Allison, Joe Richards, and Heather Withrow unite to discuss what actually works in the current landscape of camp development. From securing $650,000 "bespoke" gifts to using AI as a "body double" for accountability, this episode covers the tactical shift from broad campaigns to personalized, intentional relationship building. Whether you are an Executive Director struggling to find time to call donors or a development professional looking to modernize your tech stack, this episode provides a roadmap for sustainable growth. Key Takeaways: The Shift to Bespoke Asks: Heather highlights the power of "permission-based fundraising." Instead of cold asks, she builds proposals around specific donor "friction points."Monthly Giving & Alumni: Travis discusses the success of targeting staff alumni for operational monthly gifts. Because alumni know the "grind," they are the perfect group to fund the unglamorous essentials of camp life.- Tool of the Week - Make Yourself a Better Camp DirectorTravis - Adaptive Listening Book, by Nicole Lowenbraun, and Maegan StephensJoe - The Comet BrowserHeather - Giving USA (Canadian Version: Canada Helps)- Your HostsTravis Allison, Summer Camp Consultant - Go Camp ProJoe Richards, Executive Director of Pearce WilliamsHeather Withrow, President of Jumonville-  Rate and Review the CampHacker Show (Thank you!) - Thanks to our sponsors!UltraCamp Running camp comes with enough moving parts. UltraCamp keeps registration, payments, and communication in one place—so you can spend less time juggling systems and more time building an incredible camp experience. Learn more at ultracampmanagement.com/camphacker. Camptivities If you’re still making camp schedules in spreadsheets, you know how draining it is and how often mistakes slip in. Enter Camptivities. It’s made by camp people, for camp people - to save time, cut errors, and make camp run smoother. Be the change your camp needs - explore smarter scheduling today at camptivities.com --- Fill out the 2026 Podcast Survey by February 28th and enter your email for a chance to with a $250 gift card from our friends at Gopher Sport. Find it at gocamp.pro/podsurvey Our free Resilient Camp Blueprint diagnostic is available at: https://camp.mba/travis

    47 min
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5
out of 5
15 Ratings

About

CampHacker Podcast helps camp directors solve real problems and build resilient camps. Each episode gives practical tips for recruiting, keeping, and teaching camp staff. The hosts talk about true stories, share ways to make camp stronger, and help leaders prepare for tough situations. They focus on making summer camps last longer and bring the biggest positive change to kids and young adults. You’ll hear easy steps, fresh ideas, and real conversations that help directors run better camps and create spaces where everyone can grow.The CampHacker Podcast is hosted by Travis Allison and Chris Hudson. Travis is known for his creative ideas and caring advice for camp leaders across North America. He brings years of experience and speaks at big conferences to help directors make camps stronger and more resilient. Chris partners with Travis on every episode, working together to answer tough questions and share helpful steps for camp leaders. Their teamwork and passion help directors make the best choices for their camps, staff, and campers.

Information

  • Creator
    CampHacker - from Go Camp Pro
  • Years Active
    2013 - 2026
  • Episodes
    204
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Go Camp Pro
  • Show Website
    The CampHacker Podcast

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