New England Camp Podcast

New England Camps

A monthly connection with the New England Camp Community. Brought to you by ACA, New England.

  1. Oct 9

    New England Camp Podcast 2.3 - Luke Joines

    A career in camp can start with one yes and turn into a life built on leadership, resilience, and real-world growth. Luke joins Bud to share how a kid from England who never expected to work in the U.S. found his path through Camp America, turned summer camp into a calling, and built a life and career in Maine.Luke opens up about the mentors who shaped him, the teachers and coaches who pushed him toward education, and the moment he realized camp was not just a summer job but a powerful training ground for life. From coaching basketball and rugby to learning how to lead in unpredictable moments, he explains why camp develops the skills employers actually want: teamwork, adaptability, confidence, and emotional intelligence.You’ll discover: Why camp and school are more connected than most people realizeHow international staff can turn one summer into a long-term career pathWhat Luke learned from a major kitchen crisis that forced him to lead under pressureWhy saying yes to unfamiliar roles can unlock opportunities you never planned forHow camp helps kids and staff build confidence by trying, failing, and trying again Luke also shares the story of building a camp life alongside his wife Alana, a nurse and fellow camp professional, and what it means to make big decisions as a team. Along the way, he offers direct advice for future camp counselors, especially international staff wondering whether the leap is worth it.If you’ve ever wondered whether summer camp could be more than a seasonal job, this episode is your answer. Essential listening for aspiring camp professionals, international staff, educators, and anyone who wants a career that changes people as much as it changes you.

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A monthly connection with the New England Camp Community. Brought to you by ACA, New England.