The Day Camp Pod - From Go Camp Pro

Go Camp Pro
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The Day Camp Pod is for day camp leaders who want real answers and practical advice. Each episode covers how to build a resilient camp, face daily challenges, and support every camper. Our hosts and guests are experienced camp directors who believe in problem-solving, teamwork, and helping staff grow. We talk about staff training, making camps more welcoming for everyone, and building strong connections with parents. If you want to learn how empathy and creativity make camps better, and how to keep your camp strong during tough times, you’ll find new ideas here twice a month from Actober to May.The Day Camp Pod, from Go Camp Pro. Bringing you the best ideas, strategies and discussions in the Day Camp Industry.

  1. 8 HRS AGO

    We’ve Got Mail: The First Annual Day Camp Pod Mail Bag! - The Day Camp Pod #130

    Send us a text Find show notes and more at https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/mail-bag Your questions, our answers and plenty of camp stories along the way As another camp season wraps up, the Day Camp Podcast team is taking time to reflect, laugh and learn alongside the community that’s been with them for seven years. In this special year-end episode, our hosts open their first-ever listener mailbag and respond to real questions from camp professionals. From engaging preschoolers and creating magical moments for young campers to navigating parent expectations and building strong vendor partnerships, the conversation is packed with practical takeaways you can use right away. You’ll also hear honest reflections on what didn’t go as planned and what they’d do differently next time. If you’re looking for fresh ideas, reassurance that you’re not alone and inspiration to strengthen your camp culture year round, this episode is a must listen. Settle in for insight, humor, and a thoughtful close to the camp year. 00:31 Listener Mailbag: Holiday Special03:11 External Partners and Vendors at Camp10:55 Regrettable Changes and Lessons Learned21:13 Managing Parent Expectations28:25 Preschool Programming Challenges30:29 Creating Magic for Young Campers31:41 Engaging Activities and Special Events37:39 Managing Parent Expectations42:58 Off-Season Engagement and Camp Culture49:06 Evaluating and Improving Camp OperationsEpisode Links:Andy & Eric Wittenberg’s presentation comparing “The Bear” to Summer Camp Will Guidara’s Unreasonable Hospitality The Secret Ingredients of Great Hospitality Your Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictJordanna Grossinger, Director - Camp Robin HoodSponsors: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 camptivitie

    57 min

  2. DEC 9

    Registration Strategies: Data, Decisions & Doing It Right - with Eric Wittenberg - The Day Camp Pod #129

    Send us a text https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/doing-it-right Mastering Day Camp Registration: Expert Tips & Strategies with Eric WittenbergRegistration season doesn’t have to feel like chaos and this week’s episode of the Day Camp Pod proves it. Hosts Andy Pritikin, Sam Thompson, and Jordanna Grossinger sit down with Eric Wittenberg to unpack what really drives successful day camp enrollment. From fine tuning customer experience to making data-informed decisions, Eric shares practical strategies that camps can implement right away. You’ll hear how to strengthen follow-up systems, personalize communication, and adapt to shifting economic realities without burning out your team. If you want to boost enrollment, improve family relationships, and approach registration with more confidence and clarity, this conversation is a must-listen. Tune in and get ready to transform the way you handle camp registration 05:01 The Importance of Customer Experience (CX) 08:11 Trends and Strategies in Camp Registration 15:07 Lead Sources and Follow-Up Strategies 28:30 The Challenge of Outbound Sales in Camps 28:43 Research and Findings on Camp Follow-Ups 29:28 Learning from Other Industries 29:55 The Value of Persistent Follow-Ups 30:51 Comparing Camp Sales to Other Industries 31:30 Understanding the Lifetime Value of a Camper 33:01 Leveraging Data for Better Camp Management 33:49 Exploring Tools for Automation and Efficiency 35:48 The Importance of Enrollment Follow-Up 37:56 Effective Communication Strategies 39:50 State of the Camp Industry 45:24 Adapting to Economic Uncertainty 50:50 Strategies for Increasing Enrolment - Episode Links:Rand Fishkin Rand Fishkin on Medium Dean Jackson Grant Cardone Mailbag Episode! Send your questions, thoughts and ideas - Your Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictJordanna Grossinger, Director - Camp Robin HoodWith: Eric Wittenberg, Founder - Camper Machine, The Camp Stack-

    57 min

  3. NOV 25

    Thriving in Shared Facilities - with Brianne Feinour and Megan Snape - The Day Camp Pod #128

    Send us a text Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/thriving-shared-facilities A Guide to Communication, Collaboration, and Camp Culture in Shared SpacesRunning a day camp in a shared facility brings both challenges and opportunities. In this episode, guests Brianne Feinour and Megan Snape share what it takes to run vibrant, community focused camps inside schools, fitness centers, and other multi-use spaces. They offer practical strategies for communicating with partners, maximizing limited space, and keeping campers safe and engaged. You’ll hear stories from their programs in Toronto and Newtown, PA, along with advice on adapting, growing, and maintaining camp spirit in non-traditional settings. Whether you’re new to shared facilities or looking to strengthen existing partnerships, this episode is packed with clear, actionable insights to help your camp thrive anywhere. 01:33 Megan's Urban Camp in Toronto 03:32 Brianne's Camp in Newtown, PA 05:29 Managing Shared Facilities 12:48 Adapting and Growing 21:18 Safety and Communication Strategies 26:19 Safety Training and Parent Communication 28:23 Bringing Camp Spirit to Non-Traditional Programs 31:48 Creating a Positive Camp Culture 36:20 Support and Collaboration with School Administration 44:41 Staff Training and Adaptability Episode Links:EPIC - Emerging Professionals in Camping Slingshot Innovation Academy Your Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictJordanna Grossinger, Director - Camp Robin HoodWith: Brianne Feinour, Youth and Camp Director - Camp NACMegan Snape, Director, Camps & Slingshot Innovation Academy - Branksome Hall- 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.

    54 min

  4. NOV 12

    Turn Around Strategies: Managing Leadership Transitions - with Heath Levine and Jonathan Gold - The Day Camp Pod #127

    Send us a text Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/turn-around-strategies When a day camp starts to lose its spark, what does it take to bring it back to life? In this episode of the Day Camp Pod, the hosts sit down with Heath Levine from Shibley Day Camp and turnaround expert Jonathan Gold to unpack what really goes into reviving an underperforming camp. From rebuilding a positive culture and engaging the community to tackling staff retention and marketing hurdles, they share real stories and strategies that have helped transform struggling programs into thriving ones.  Highlights: 03:50 Heath Levine's Camp Journey08:39 Jonathan Gold's Turnaround Insights11:18 Establishing Camp Culture and Values27:06 Marketing and Community Engagement32:17 Flexible Work Schedules and Expectations32:45 The Relevance of Face-to-Face Interaction33:23 Marketing Strategies for Camps34:00 Resurrecting Tamarack: Challenges and Strategies34:57 The Importance of Community Engagement40:51 Balancing Tradition and Innovation52:51 Staff and Camper Retention58:12 The Emotional Challenges of Leadership- Episode Links:Camp’s Golden Metric Managing Transitions: Making the Most of Change Your Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictJordanna Grossinger, Director - Camp Robin HoodWith: Heath Levine, Director - Shibley Day CampJonathan Gold, MBA, PhD, Camp Owner/Director - the Arbor Group of CampsSponsors: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 camptivitie

    1h 5m

  5. OCT 28

    Capturing the Sleepaway Spirit Vol. 8 - with Dan Johnson and Dan Weir - The Day Camp Pod #126

    Send us a text Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/sleepaway-spirit What 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-Long Liberty Lake Spirit Calendar Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life Center for Nonviolent Communication Your 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

    57 min

  6. OCT 14

    Maximize Your Camp: From Summer Days to Year Round Impact - with Peggy Aylmer - The Day Camp Pod #125

    Send us a text Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/maximize-your-camp Expanding 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 Programs Camp 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

    48 min

  7. SEP 29

    Summer 2025: Biggest Wins, Challenges, and What's Next - The Day Camp Pod #124

    Send us a text Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/summer-2025-debrief Riding 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.

    1 hr

  8. MAY 27

    Final Thoughts Before Summer ‘25 - The Day Camp Pod #123

    Send us a text Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/final-thoughts-25 Gearing 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

    55 min
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out of 5
2 Ratings

About

The Day Camp Pod is for day camp leaders who want real answers and practical advice. Each episode covers how to build a resilient camp, face daily challenges, and support every camper. Our hosts and guests are experienced camp directors who believe in problem-solving, teamwork, and helping staff grow. We talk about staff training, making camps more welcoming for everyone, and building strong connections with parents. If you want to learn how empathy and creativity make camps better, and how to keep your camp strong during tough times, you’ll find new ideas here twice a month from Actober to May.The Day Camp Pod, from Go Camp Pro. Bringing you the best ideas, strategies and discussions in the Day Camp Industry.

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