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. 6D AGO

    Sam & Andy Go to Washington - The Day Camp Pod - #140

    Send us Fan Mail Find show notes and more at https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/washington From Capitol Hill to Camp: Why Advocacy Matters More Than Ever for Summer CampsAs conversations around childcare, workforce development and youth mental health continue to grow, summer camp has an important story to tell and this episode takes listeners straight to the front lines of that advocacy work. Andy Pritikin shares an inside look at ACA Hill Day 2026 in Washington, DC, where camp professionals met with lawmakers to push for critical issues like background check access, J-1 visa reform and stronger bipartisan support for camps. Packed with eye-opening stats, real camp stories and practical ways camp leaders can get involved, this episode highlights why advocacy matters now more than ever. If you care about the future of camp and the impact it has on families, communities and the next generation, this is a must listen episode. 02:01 Inside Hill Day04:00 Camp Stories05:44 Camp Impact Stats07:35 Childcare Funding09:46 Future Ready Skills12:20 Background Checks CPIA14:34 J-1 Visa Crunch15:20 Camp Caucus Push18:14 Invite Officials19:38 Why Hill Day Matters24:31 Summer SendoffEpisode Links:EIS State Sheets BridgeUSA J-1: Exchange Visitors and America’s Summer Camps Congressional Camp Caucus  Child Protection Improvements Act (CPIA) Unlocking a Future Where All Children Can Thrive Michele Branconier - ACA - Senior Director of Volunteerism Your Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSponsors: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.comAMSkierAMSkier 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 atamskier.com.Please review and subscribe!If you’ve gotten even one good thing from the Day Camp Pod, we would be so grateful if you left us a review and subscribed to this show in your favourite Podcast app. It’s so easy!  Just click here: https://ratethispodcast.com/dcp‍  ‍ Thanks,

    25 min

  2. MAY 5

    The Day Camp Enrollment Cliff - with Jake Sorenson and Jonathan Gold - The Day Camp Pod #139

    Send us Fan Mail Find show notes and more at https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/enrollment-cliff Birth Rate Drops, Demographic Shifts, and How Day Camps Can Adapt Enrollment isn’t just “feeling” tighter, there’s real data behind the shift, and it’s coming for camps faster than many leaders expect. In this episode, Jake Sorenson and Jonathan Gold break down the demographic cliff, what it means for your program, and why 2028 should already be on your radar. More importantly, they move beyond the problem and offer practical ways to adapt, from rethinking older camper experiences to doubling down on what makes camp truly indispensable. If you want to stay ahead of enrollment challenges (instead of reacting to them), this is a must listen. 06:20 Why Data Matters07:13 Median Age Warning Signs09:12 Demographic Cliff Explained13:48 Societal Shifts, Smaller Families16:36 Immigration, Diversity Impact21:07 Regional Differences ,Local Data28:48 Making the Case for Camp30:48 Small Camps Biggest Risk32:38 Be Undeniably Great33:21 Culture Shifts And Shorter Stays34:21 Affordability And Funding Paths37:23 AI Proof Value Pitch38:35 Disaster Planning For Enrollment Drops40:34 Staffing Shifts And Camp Winners43:51 Grandparents And Donor Strategy45:42 Middle School And Teen Opportunity47:41 Modernize Beyond Tradition49:55 Personal Touch Beats Automation- Your Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park District- Your Guests:Jonathan Gold, MBA, PhD, Camp Owner/Director - Arbor Group of CampsJake Sorenson, Founder, Sacred Playgrounds 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.comAMSkierAMSkier 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 atamskier.com.

    59 min

  3. APR 15

    Pause, Plan, Play to Win - with Executive Coach Tiffany Yvonne - The Day Camp Pod #137

    Send us Fan Mail Find show notes and more at https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/pause-plan-play Burnout doesn’t have to be the cost of caring deeply about your work. In this episode of The Day Camp Pod, executive coach Tiffany Yvonne returns to share a powerful framework, “Pause, Plan, Play to Win.”, that helps camp professionals realign their values, reclaim their energy and lead with intention. From navigating high pressure environments to building self trust and resilience, this conversation is packed with practical strategies you can use right away. If you’re feeling stretched thin or ready to lead (and live) more sustainably, this episode is a must listen. 03:11 From Camp To Corporate04:08 Athletes Under Pressure06:12 Power Of Camp Play09:45 Burnout And Self Care13:56 Camp Is Everywhere15:43 Pause Plan Play Framework20:04 Resilience and Rest21:14 Feelings as Data22:51 Self Trust Decisions27:08 Coaching Framework30:27 Personal Why Story33:44 Retention and Alignment38:14 Camp Skills Beyond Camp- Episode Links: How a ‘quit list’ can help you play to win - Tiffany’s TED Talk Coach Tiffany Yvonne - Leadership & Life Coach - Your Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictJordanna Grossinger, Director - Camp Robin Hood- Your Guests:Tiffany Yvonne, CEO, Cultural Strategist, Executive Coach, Speaker - Playmaker SolutionsSponsors: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.comAMSkierAMSkier 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 atamskier.com.Please review and subscribe!If you’ve gotten even one good thing from the Day Camp Pod, we would be so grateful if you left us a review and subscribed to this show in your favourite Podcast app. It’s so

    40 min

  4. MAR 31 ·  BONUS

    RE-RELEASE: Open Houses and Camp Tours - Day Camp Pod #2

    Send us Fan Mail Make your first impressions, your best impressions.Welcome back to the Day Camp Pod! Whether you’re joining us in our beginning season, or if you’re reading this in the vast nethers of the future, we’re so glad you’re here! Open Houses are time and time again, one of the best ways to get the final “yes” from potential camp parents. If done well, parents will register their child, if done REALLY well, they will tell their friends, family and friend’s family that your camp is the place to be this summer. However, the intentionality required to pull off a great camp open house should not be underestimated. Here to help you steer the ship toward the shores of success are our Day Camp Pod Pros, Andy, Ehren and Sam! Tune in to this episode to hear answers to: What’s the goal of your Open House?What guideposts do you use for your open houses? Camp Fairs? Price Breaks?How can you make an Open House an event all in itself?Who are you marketing your camp Open Houses to? How can you specifically recruit them?What are you going to do to make your tour stand-out?How do you train your staff to give the best tour ever?How do you intentionally end your tour?What is your client follow-up process like?Get your pens, paper and Evernote documents out, because this one if FULL of ideas you can implement this season! Do you have any Open House hacks? Let us know in the comment section! - DCP - DAY CAMP PROGRAM IDEA OF THE WEEK - LEVEL UP YOUR DAY CAMP! Andy - Learn to Ride Bike ElectiveEhren - Sing your Heart Out Staff EventSam - Service Projects For CampersYour Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director Liberty Lake Day Camp, past president ACA NY/NJEhren Gluckstein, Assistant Director, Camp Robin HoodSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor, Crystal Lake Park District-Sponsors:Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible: Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS)CampminderAMSkierPlease review and subscribe!If you’ve gotten even one good thing from the Day Camp Pod, we would be so grateful if you left us a review and subscribed to this show in your favourite Podcast app. It’s so easy!  Just click here: https://ratethispodcast.com/dcp‍  ‍ Thanks, Camp Pro!

    53 min

  5. MAR 17

    Winter Conference Debrief - with Justin Pritikin - The Day Camp Pod #136

    Send us Fan Mail Find show notes and more at https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/conference-debrief Day Camp Survival: Feedback, Neurodiversity, Social Skills & the Coming Enrolment CliffWhat happens when camps are forced to rethink everything from culture to communication and even their core values? In this episode of The Day Camp Pod, the team unpacks key takeaways from the winter conference circuit, tackling big topics like neurodiversity, feedback culture and the looming enrollment cliff. It’s a candid, forward-looking conversation packed with practical ideas to help camp leaders adapt, stay relevant and strengthen relationships with both staff and families. If you’re thinking about what the future of camp really demands, this is an episode you won’t want to miss! 02:27 Teaching Staff to Take Feedback 06:52 Neurodiversity and Sensory Needs 11:38 Rethinking Rules and Inclusion 13:49 Generations and Risk Taking 16:02 Sarcasm and Social Connection 22:45 Mingling and Social Skills Training 26:41 Eggshell Topics and Boundaries 31:32 Back to the Big Picture 31:47 Handling Late Staff 34:03 Enrollment Drop Scenario 35:32 Defining Camp Value 38:32 Storytelling And Trust 43:11 Recession And Differentiation 45:28 Relationship Marketing Ideas 47:18 Keep Swinging And Adapt 50:48 Youth Perspectives And Incentives 53:11 Advice For Enrollment Slumps 58:07 AI Tools For Operations - Episode Links: Matt Kaufman’s Newsletter and Book Dr. Jean Twenge The Mingle Project The Plunging Birthrate  - Your Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictJordanna Grossinger, Director - Camp Robin Hood- Your Guests:Justin Pritikin, Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSponsors:Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible: Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS)CampminderAMSkier Please review and subscribe!If you’ve gotten even one good thing from the Day Camp Pod, we would be so grateful if you left us a review and subscribed to this show in your favourite Podcast app. It’s so easy!  Just click here: https://ratethispodcast.com/dcp‍  ‍ Thanks, Camp Pro!

    1h 2m

  6. MAR 10 ·  BONUS

    Camp is “the Anti-AI” and The Nature of Leadership - with Andy Pritikin - Intentional Intentionally Leaders

    Send us Fan Mail Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/camphacker/iil-andy-p Raising the Bar: A Masterclass in Camp Intentionality with Andy PritikinIn this episode of Intentionally Intentional Leaders, Matt Wilfrid sits down with Andy Pritikin, a true powerhouse in the summer camp industry. From founding Liberty Lake Day Camp to producing the New Jersey Renaissance Fair and hosting the Day Camp Podcast, Andy has spent decades "sharpening the sword" of youth development. Through the roll of a 20-sided die, Andy shares how his background as a rock musician and a student teacher shaped his belief that leadership is earned through relationships, not titles. We dive deep into why camp is the ultimate antidote to an AI-driven world and how directors can navigate the tricky waters of transparency and candor in a modern camp setting. Key Takeaways include: Earned Respect vs. Authoritarianism: Andy reflects on his early days as a music teacher to explain why "collared shirts and walkie-talkies" don't grant authority. True leadership requires constant deposits into the "relationship piggy bank" with your staff.The Anti-AI Value Proposition: In an age where even a trip to the gym involves earbuds and screens, Andy discusses why camp is uniquely positioned as a "religion of nature." It’s the one place where kids can focus purely on being human.Emotional Safety over "The Trains": Andy shares a profound insight on prioritizing emotional safety and belonging over administrative efficiency. While a schedule is a necessary framework, it should never steamroll the chance for a meaningful, life-changing interaction.Forgiving the Mistakes: From "sunscreen machines" that didn't work to hiring mishaps, Andy shares his mantra: "All you can do is the best you can do." Learn why humility and a "glass-half-full" perspective are essential for a long-term career in camping.- Find full show notes and links for this episode at: https://gocamp.pro/camphacker/iil-andy-p - Your HostsMatt Wilfrid, Executive Producer of Podcasting at Go Camp ProAndy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day Camp- 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/

    53 min

  7. MAR 3

    Emergency Preparedness - with Tracey Gaslin, Dr. Barry Garst and Tim Huchton - The Day Camp Pod #135

    Send us Fan Mail Find show notes and more at https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/emergency-prep From Plans to Practice: Building Calm, Capable Leadership in a CrisisWhen it comes to camp leadership, few responsibilities matter more than being prepared for the unexpected. In this episode of The Day Camp Pod, your hosts are joined by Dr. Barry Garst, Tracey Gaslin and Tim Huchton to unpack what true emergency preparedness really looks like in today’s camp environment. From building practical, usable plans to strengthening relationships with local emergency services and empowering staff to think critically under pressure, this conversation is both strategic and deeply actionable. You’ll walk away with research backed insights, real world examples and tangible resources you can bring back to your team immediately. If safety, decisive leadership, and proactive planning are priorities for you, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. 04:36 The Importance of Emergency Preparedness 06:14 Developing Practical Emergency Plans 10:01 Tools and Resources for Camps 24:48 Building Relationships with Emergency Services 27:48 Building Local Relationships for Unique Camps 28:56 Involving Local Agencies in Training 31:29 Critical Thinking in Emergency Preparedness 36:25 Empowering Staff with Decision-Making Skills 44:11 Emergency Preparedness Research Project 47:39 Alliance for Camp Health Resources - Episode Links: The Safety Navigator MESH(+) Resources CampWell - Your Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictJordanna Grossinger, Director - Camp Robin Hood- Your Guests:Tracey Gaslin, CEO - Alliance for Camp HealthDr. Barry Garst, Professor and Coordinator, Youth Development Programs - Clemson UniversityTim Huchton, President and CEO - Mo-RanchSponsors:Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible: Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) Find out more at https://crs4rec.com/CampminderVisit them today at campminder.comAMSkierLearn more at amskier.com.Please review and subscribe!If you’ve gotten even one good thing from the Day Camp Pod, we would be so grateful if you left us a review and subscribed to this show in your favourite Podcast app. Just click here: ht

    55 min

  8. FEB 17

    Early Childhood Programming - with Lauren Dermody and Dave Thoensen - The Day Camp Pod #134

    Send us Fan Mail Find show notes and more at https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/preschool Managing Preschool Day Campers: Tips, Strategies and Success StoriesWorking with preschool day campers requires a completely different playbook and this episode breaks down exactly what that looks like. The hosts and guests dive into the real world challenges of programming, staffing, routines, transportation and parent communication for your youngest campers. You’ll hear practical strategies, thoughtful insights and experienced perspectives that can immediately improve how you support your youngest campers. Whether you’re refining an existing program or launching one for the first time, this conversation offers ideas you can actually use. If you want happier campers, more confident staff and smoother parent relationships, this is an episode worth your time. 02:49 Challenges and Strategies for Managing Young Campers06:27 Programming Goals and Activities for Preschoolers10:34 Staffing and Group Management14:06 Daily Schedules and Routines21:30 Parental Communication and Expectations29:50 Parent Visitation Policies31:44 Setting Expectations with Parents32:56 Communicating with Parents36:18 Special Events for Young Campers44:31 Transportation Challenges and Solutions50:55 Program Tips for Preschool CampsYour Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictJordanna Grossinger, Director - Camp Robin HoodYour Guests:Lauren Dermody, Staffing Coordinator - Elmwood Day CampDave Thoensen, Camp Owner/Director - Tamarak Day CampSponsors:Thanks to our wonderful sponsors: 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.comAMSkierAMSkier 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

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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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