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. 5D AGO · BONUS

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

    Send a text 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

  2. MAR 3

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

    Send a text 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:

    55 min

  3. FEB 17

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

    Send a text 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

    1 hr

  4. FEB 9 · BONUS

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

    Send a text 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 to share more about Whereabouts and it's intentional design - 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

    31 min

  5. FEB 4

    Weather, Operations… Steve Maguire! - The Day Camp Pod #133

    Send a text Find show notes and more at https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/weather-operations Smart Weather Strategies Every Camp Leader Needs Right NowExtreme weather is no longer the exception, it’s part of the new normal for day camps. In this episode of The Day Camp Pod, “camp weatherman” Steve Maguire breaks down how camp leaders can prepare for heat waves, wildfire smoke, tropical storms and everything in between. From understanding dew point and UV index to using smarter weather tools and creating effective daily weather briefings, this conversation is packed with practical, real world strategies you can actually use. Steve also challenges camps to rethink shade, infrastructure, and staff preparedness in ways that improve safety and the camper experience. If you’re responsible for making weather related decisions at camp, this episode will help you move from reactive to confidently prepared. 00:13 Meet Steve Maguire: The Camp Weatherman05:41 Challenges of Extreme Weather at Camps08:56 Importance of Shade and Weather Awareness15:07 Preparing Staff and Campers for Weather22:03 Proactive Measures for Camp Safety27:27 Innovative UV Index and Sunscreen Dispensers28:07 Mandatory Hats and Sunglasses for Safety29:37 Proactive Weather Monitoring Tools32:33 Daily Weather Briefings and Staff Coordination35:49 Evaluating Camp Infrastructure Beyond Buildings37:57 Staffing and Engagement Strategies41:03 Continuous Improvement and Fresh Perspectives50:54 Under-Invested Areas in CampsEpisode Links:Obsessed with the Weather Podcast Your Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictJordanna Grossinger, Director - Camp Robin Hood- Your Guest:Steve Maguire, Speaker, Trainer, Teacher and more - Go TurnstoneSponsors: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 AMS

    56 min

  6. JAN 20

    The Intentional Staff Leader - with Michael Brandwein - The Day Camp Pod #132

    Send a text Find show notes and more at https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/intentional-leader Handling Staff Behavior with Purpose, Not Panic Since the pandemic, many camp leaders have found themselves spending more time managing staff behavior than camper behavior, and it can feel exhausting. In this episode the hosts sit down with renowned educator and camp trainer Michael Brandwein to explore how intentional leadership can replace reactive, panic driven responses. You’ll learn how to develop staff who truly align with your camp’s mission, values and expectations. The conversation is packed with practical coaching techniques, real world examples and mindset shifts that help leaders build accountability without burning out. If you’re looking to strengthen staff training, handle everyday behavior challenges with confidence and create a culture where staff feel both supported and responsible, this is a must listen episode. 03:11 Michael Brandwein's Insights on Camp Leadership 06:32 The Importance of Continuous Learning 11:48 Intentional Staff Development 23:26 The Role of Feedback and Coaching 30:29 Staff Training Strategies 37:06 Key Moments in Day Camp Training 37:24 Handling Late Arrivals 43:41 The Name Tag Problem 46:38 Managing Break Times 50:33 Addressing Talking During Sessions 58:59 The Importance of Feedback 01:06:05 Final Thoughts and ResourcesEpisode Links:Michael’s Website Brandwein on Super Staff SuperVision-Online Course Your Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictJordanna Grossinger, Director - Camp Robin HoodYour Guest:Michael Brandwein, Speaker, Trainer, Author - https://www.michaelbrandwein.com/storeSponsors: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 amski

    1h 8m

  7. JAN 6

    Marketing Through Community Engagement- with Marissa Allaben, Ali Rothenberg and Heath Levine - The Day Camp Pod #131

    Send a text https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/community-engagement Building Community Partnerships: How Day Camps Can Connect Locally What if your day camp was known not just as a program, but as a true community partner? In this episode of The Day Camp Pod , guests Marissa Allaben, Ali Rothenberg and Heath Levine join the hosts to discuss how camps can build authentic, local connections that really matter. From partnering with schools and municipalities to showing up at community events and using street teams creatively, this conversation is packed with practical, boots-on-the-ground ideas. The guests share real examples of what’s worked, what takes time and why consistency is key to earning trust. You’ll also hear how social media and in-person outreach can work together to amplify your camp’s presence. If you want your camp to be seen as a giver, not a taker, this episode offers clear inspiration and actionable next steps. 00:00 Introduction: Are You a Giver or a Taker? 04:12 Rolling River Camp's History and Legacy 08:41 Community Engagement and Marketing Strategies 14:06 Building Genuine Relationships in the Community 14:41 Engaging with Schools and Local Organizations 17:11 The Power of Partnerships and Consistency 27:01 The Role of Street Teams in Community Outreach 29:01 Engaging the Community with a Street Team 31:39 The Power of Mascots in Camp Marketing 35:40 Building Relationships Beyond the Screen 41:51 Leveraging Social Media for Camp Promotion 51:36 Holiday Camps: A Gateway to Summer Enrollment 54:04 Final Thoughts and Best Practices - Episode Links:Rolling River Camp Connectors- Your Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictJordanna Grossinger, Director - Camp Robin Hood- Your Guests:Marissa Allaben, Director - Rolling River Day CampAli Rothenberg, Associate Director - Rolling River Day CampHeath Levine, Director - Shibley Day Camp

    58 min

  8. 12/23/2025

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

    Send 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 camptivities.c

    57 min
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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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