MC Fireside Chats Modern Campground

In the recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, sponsored by Horizon Outdoor Hospitality, Mike Harrison stepped in as the guest host. The episode, which focused on glamping, featured discussions with Zach Stoltenberg, Valerie Pifer, Karey McDowell, Peter Rodriguez, and Matt Bragstad. Zach Stoltenberg, from Clockwork emphasizes their role as a one-stop shop for developing outdoor hospitality sites from land acquisition to opening. Peter Rodriguez, president of ekō Solutions LLC, talks about his modular building company in North Alabama, which converts shipping containers into various structures for glamping sites and more. Valerie and Karey represent Progress Park Airstream Resort and Event Center in Louisville, Kentucky. They discuss their mix of glamping and event hosting, including their approach to the Kentucky Derby week, which attracts visitors for a multi-day experience involving local attractions and events. Matt Bragstad Founder and CEO of Your Glamping Adventure passionately talks about his venture into glamping with his wife and friends. They have developed two properties focused on providing a luxurious outdoor experience, emphasizing the rapid growth and success of their business. The guests discuss various challenges and innovations in outdoor hospitality. Matt and Peter share insights on zoning and regulatory hurdles, while Valerie and Karey discuss community engagement and the importance of aligning with local expectations and regulations. Attention to details like guest amenities, including pet-friendly options and wellness activities, is highlighted as essential for enhancing the guest experience. Matt and Peter elaborate on the importance of integrating local services and attractions to enrich the stay. Zach discusses the evolving definitions of glamping and the broad spectrum of accommodations it can encompass, from luxury tents to converted shipping containers. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on guest experience over mere accommodation. Future plans for the guests’ businesses include expanding their offerings and continuing to innovate in creating memorable experiences for visitors. They discuss the potential for new amenities like outdoor kitchens, communal dining areas, and wellness facilities. The conversation wraps up with reflections on the uniqueness of each glamping site and the personalized experiences they offer, which distinguishes them from traditional hotels and other hospitality offerings. The discussion underscores the dynamic and rapidly evolving nature of the glamping industry.

In the recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, guest host Cara Csizmadia, who is also the president of the Canadian Camping and RVs Association and a former co-host of the show, returns to lead a dynamic discussion. The episode, recorded on May 1, 2024, coincides with the opening day for many campgrounds, adding a festive note to the discussion despite some areas facing challenging weather conditions. Cara opens the episode with a warm welcome and shares her enthusiasm for returning to the show. She introduces the recurring guests: Jeff Hoffman, Scott Bahr, Christine Taylor, and Sandy Ellingson, each an expert in their respective fields within the outdoor hospitality industry. Scott Bahr of Camp Consulting Group, who has over two decades of experience in market research within the industry, discusses the recent trends he has observed. He notes that last year’s disruptions, particularly adverse weather, significantly impacted campground bookings. Scott anticipates a growing trend toward more spontaneous travel among campers, driven by a shift in consumer behavior that favors flexibility and short-notice travel plans. Jeff Hoffman from Camp Strategy talks about the operational and financial aspects of running campgrounds. He highlights a shift back to pre-COVID booking windows, which have narrowed significantly compared to the extended booking periods seen during the pandemic. Jeff reassures campground owners that despite a slower booking pace, the industry remains healthy, and there has been little resistance to recent price increases, suggesting that consumers have adjusted to the new pricing norms. Christine Taylor, who brings a legal perspective from her extensive experience in the camping industry, discusses the crucial role of legal support in managing a campground. She stresses the importance of having robust legal advice to navigate the complex landscape of outdoor hospitality, touching on issues like business fraud and the essential nature of legal services in preventive practices. Sandy Ellingson, enriches the discussion with her insights into dynamic pricing strategies. She explains the financial benefits of minor rate increases and the impact of adaptive cancellation policies on consumer booking behaviors. Sandy’s expertise highlights how slight adjustments in pricing and policies can significantly enhance revenue without alienating guests. Throughout the episode, the conversation delves into innovative solutions being implemented by campgrounds to adapt to changing consumer expectations. This includes flexible cancellation policies and creative approaches to managing long-term stays to avoid legal and operational complications. The panelists discuss the balance between being open to guests and managing the business aspects efficiently to maintain profitability and guest satisfaction. The episode wraps up with Cara thanking the guests for their insights and reflecting on the vibrant discussion that covered both the opportunities and challenges facing the outdoor hospitality industry today. The blend of expert opinions provides a comprehensive overview of the strategies that campground owners can employ to navigate the current market dynamics and legal landscape, ensuring the continued success of their businesses. This rich conversation not only addresses the immediate concerns related to the opening day of the season but also broader trends that could influence the future of camping and outdoor hospitality.

In the recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, host Brian Searl led a comprehensive discussion with prominent figures in the RV and outdoor hospitality industry. The conversation covered a wide range of topics that are currently shaping the future of RVing. Key industry leaders including David Ramsay and Brian Fuente, who represent innovative RV companies, shared their insights on market expansion and the pivotal role of technology in evolving RV designs. Their companies focus on making RVs more accessible and appealing to a broader audience, which includes a significant increase in first-time RV owners who are attracted by user-friendly and technologically advanced features. Phil Ingrassia and Shane Devenish offered perspectives on broader industry trends, such as the need for simpler, more intuitive RV technologies that can accommodate an increasingly diverse consumer base. They discussed how the industry is adapting to meet these demands through both product development and enhanced customer service strategies. Eleonore Hamm contributed to the discussion by highlighting the importance of advocacy and educational initiatives in Canada, which aim to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of RVing, particularly emphasizing how technologies like Starlink can transform RVing experiences in remote areas. Susan Carpenter spoke about the notable rise in solo female travelers in the RV sector, pointing out that vehicle designs are becoming more inclusive, reducing barriers to entry and making RVing less intimidating for newcomers. The conversation also featured a significant focus on the transformative impact of Starlink’s satellite internet service, with both Ramsay and Fuente explaining how it has revolutionized the connectivity options available to RVers. This innovation has not only enhanced the appeal of off-grid RVing but has also expanded the possibilities for where RVs can travel without losing touch with digital necessities. The dialogue delved into how these advancements are influencing consumer behaviors and expectations, with RV manufacturers increasingly integrating features that promote a blend of comfort, convenience, and connectivity. This shift is not just about accommodating the needs of traditional RV users but also about attracting new demographics who view RVs as viable options for remote work and extended travel. Overall, this episode of MC Fireside Chats provided a rich tapestry of insights that illustrate the dynamic changes occurring in the RV industry. It underscored the industry’s responsiveness to consumer demands and technological advancements, highlighting a promising future for outdoor hospitality. The collective expertise of the speakers painted a picture of an industry at an exciting crossroads, with technology and customer-centric designs driving growth and expanding the horizons of traditional RVing.

In the latest episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, a dynamic conversation unfolded featuring insights from leaders in the outdoor hospitality industry. The session began with Brian introducing the context for the discussion, emphasizing the series’ dedication to exploring real-world experiences and strategies from campground owners and industry experts. Richard Chandler, a seasoned campground owner, shared his unique approach to business, focusing on community engagement over immediate profit. He elaborated on hosting a significant annual music festival that, while not particularly profitable, greatly enhanced community ties and visibility for his campground. Richard’s strategy revolves around providing value and enrichment to the campground experience, which he believes will pay off in the long run in terms of loyalty and reputation. Craig Alsup contributed to the conversation by discussing the transformations he has implemented at his campground. Having purchased a previously failing campground, Craig turned the business around through strategic improvements and active marketing. His efforts have resulted in increased occupancy and revenue, highlighting the potential for success with the right strategies and execution. Bobby Sorden introduced the platform Supplier Spot, designed to connect campground owners with suppliers and facilitate resource trading. This platform serves as a critical tool for improving operational efficiencies and fostering industry connections, demonstrating a significant leap towards modernizing campground operations. Candace McNamara from Staylist provided an overview of the technological advancements available to campground owners. She discussed how their platform could help streamline operations, from reservations to point-of-sale systems, and emphasized the importance of adopting technology to enhance guest experiences and operational efficiency. Greg Emmert, co-founder at Camp Strategy, offered consultancy insights, focusing on the potential for campgrounds to increase revenue by leveraging underutilized assets. Greg’s advice centered on custom solutions that address the specific needs and potential of each campground, advocating for a tailored approach to business improvements. Throughout the discussion, the speakers shared personal anecdotes and strategies, enriching the conversation with practical advice and real-life examples. The importance of community-focused activities was a recurring theme, with Richard detailing his approach to hosting events that, while not immediately profitable, build long-term value for guests and the broader community. Marketing strategies were also a focal point, with Craig discussing how targeted advertising and community engagement helped fill his sites. Bobby’s platform, Supplier Spot, was highlighted as a valuable resource for finding and utilizing suppliers effectively, illustrating the benefits of networked solutions in the industry. Technology’s role in modernizing campground operations was emphasized by Candace, who pointed out the various ways campground owners can integrate systems to enhance efficiency and guest satisfaction. Greg supported this by detailing how consulting can help identify profitable improvements that align with a campground’s unique characteristics and market position. The episode wrapped up with a broader discussion on the financial aspects of running a campground, with Richard candidly sharing his financial strategies and future goals. The conversation also touched on innovative ideas like selling back solar energy, showcasing the diverse and evolving nature of campground management challenges and solutions.

In the recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, host Brian Searl brought together a panel of outdoor hospitality experts to delve into the innovations shaping the glamping industry. Brian was joined by recurring guests Zach Stoltenberg, Todd Wynne-Parry, Angele Miller, Chris Jeub, Alessandro van de Loo, and special guests Jeremy Budge and Gene Eidelman, each offering unique perspectives on the challenges and opportunities within the sector. Zach Stoltenberg, representing Clockwork, shared insights on the architectural challenges and innovations in designing glamping resorts. His focus on guest experience and the business perspective highlighted the importance of balance in creating unique yet practical glamping accommodations. Todd Wynne-Parry, from Horwath HTL, discussed the broader implications of hotel brands entering the glamping market. His analysis of the Hilton-AutoCamp partnership shed light on the evolving landscape of outdoor hospitality, where traditional hotel brands see value in the unique offerings of glamping. Angele Miller introduced Creekside R&R glamping, emphasizing the franchise model’s potential to standardize and elevate the glamping experience while respecting local cultures and designs. Her concerns about adapting structures to various climates and terrains underscored the industry’s need for versatile and resilient accommodations. Chris Jeub, owner of Monument Glamping, touched on the creative challenges faced by glamping developers in navigating zoning and building departments. His experiences underscore the industry’s ongoing struggle with regulatory frameworks and the need for innovative solutions that comply with local codes. Alessandro van de Loo shared his experiences operating glamping resorts in Europe, highlighting the potential for 3D printed accommodations to revolutionize the industry by offering scalable, eco-friendly, and customizable options for resort developers. Jeremy Budge, the founder of Backland, a luxury eco-resort in Arizona, detailed the development of custom-designed, code-compliant tents. His journey from Under Canvas to establishing his own resort illustrated the innovative spirit driving the glamping industry forward. Gene Eidelman presented Azure Printed Homes, a company specializing in 3D printed structures using recycled plastic. His vision for sustainable, efficient, and customizable construction offers a promising solution to the glamping industry’s demand for unique and environmentally friendly accommodations. The discussion also ventured into the regulatory challenges of introducing novel concepts like 3D printed homes and custom tents into the market. Both Jeremy Budge and Gene Eidelman shared their experiences navigating the complexities of building codes and permits, underscoring the need for regulatory flexibility to accommodate innovation. The panelists explored the cost implications of such innovations, particularly the expenses associated with testing and compliance. The conversation highlighted the financial hurdles of pioneering new construction methods and the potential for scale to mitigate these challenges. Angele Miller’s concerns about adapting glamping units to extreme climates, such as those in Atlantic Canada, pointed to the necessity of designing accommodations that can withstand a wide range of environmental conditions while preventing issues like condensation. The potential for 3D printing technology to provide customized solutions for diverse glamping locations was a recurring theme. The ability to tailor accommodations to specific sites and climates could revolutionize the way glamping resorts are developed, offering an unprecedented level of flexibility and customization. In closing, the episode underscored the glamping industry’s role as a crucible for construction and hospitality innovation. By embracing new technologies and designs, the sector can offer unique, sustainable, and memorable experiences, setting a new standard for outd

In a dynamic episode of MC Fireside Chats, host Brian Searl led a rich discussion featuring industry experts Mike Harrison, Scott Bahr, Jeff Hoffman, and Mark Koep, who collectively dissect the evolving landscape of outdoor hospitality. The episode begins on a lighter note, with Searl and his guests sharing their personal anecdotes, setting the stage for an engaging dialogue that delves deep into industry trends, challenges, and strategies for success. Brian Searl, the anchor of the conversation, guides the dialogue with precision, touching on a wide array of subjects, from the impact of technological advancements on the camping industry to the intricacies of consumer behavior in a post-pandemic world. His insightful questions and commentary knit the diverse topics into a coherent narrative that offers a panoramic view of the sector. Mike Harrison brings to the table his operational expertise, discussing the practical challenges and opportunities parks face in real-time. He provides a nuanced analysis of how occupancy rates, advanced booking patterns, and revenue management practices are adapting to new market realities. Harrison’s perspective is particularly valuable in understanding the operational shifts necessitated by fluctuating demand and the adoption of new technologies. Scott Bahr, with his deep dive into data and analytics, sheds light on the latest industry reports and the significance of sustainable practices. His discussion on the importance of data in driving decisions and understanding consumer trends is eye-opening. Bahr emphasizes the need for parks to leverage data more effectively to navigate the complexities of the market and to tailor their services to meet the evolving expectations of their guests. Jeff Hoffman offers insights into the strategic aspects of park management and marketing. He stresses the importance of parks modernizing their facilities and operations to enhance the guest experience. Hoffman’s discussion on the use of technology to streamline operations and engage with guests more effectively highlights the critical role of innovation in maintaining competitiveness. Mark Koep focuses on the marketing strategies that parks can employ to attract and retain guests. He delves into the importance of understanding the customer journey and utilizing digital marketing tools to reach potential guests. Koep’s expertise in online marketing and customer engagement provides a roadmap for parks looking to enhance their visibility and appeal in a crowded marketplace. Throughout the episode, the conversation seamlessly transitions from operational challenges to marketing strategies, economic impacts, and the future of outdoor hospitality. The discussion on the mini-recession, rising gas prices, and their implications on consumer travel habits offers a sobering look at the challenges ahead. However, the panelists also highlight the resilience of the industry and the potential for innovation and adaptability to drive growth. The episode concludes with a forward-looking discussion on the importance of parks embracing change, modernizing their operations, and investing in marketing to thrive in an increasingly competitive environment.