201 episodes

A weekly discussion of summer camp programming ideas with Curt ”Moose” Jackson and Chris Kallal.

SCamp Life: The Programming Side Curt Jackson

    • Business
    • 4.7 • 18 Ratings

A weekly discussion of summer camp programming ideas with Curt ”Moose” Jackson and Chris Kallal.

    SCP 201: 20 Special Guests Suggestions for Your Camp

    SCP 201: 20 Special Guests Suggestions for Your Camp

    In this episode, Curt and Chris discuss a wide range of ideas for bringing special guests to camps. They explore the possibility of inviting guests such as wildlife experts, celebrities, local community leaders, scientists, engineers, athletes, craftsmen like blacksmiths, motivational speakers, and artists. Additionally, they mention innovative activities like silent discos, bubble parties, and the involvement of volunteers for camp-wide games. They go a little off the rails a couple of times, but if you're a regular listener you know that's par for the course.

    • 40 min
    SCP 200: Bringing Entertainers to Camps: A Chat with Academic Entertainment

    SCP 200: Bringing Entertainers to Camps: A Chat with Academic Entertainment

    Chris and Curt welcome Whitney Mueller from Academic Entertainment, who shares her journey with the company from its humble beginnings to becoming a leading provider of entertainers for camps and schools.
    The episode covers the variety of programs offered, ensuring no camp ever has to endure the horror of a boring guest again. Whitney highlights the importance of high-quality, professional entertainers who can captivate both campers and staff. From tales of a basketball-dribbling ex-Globetrotter to discussions about the magic of virtual programming that doesn't put anyone to sleep, the talk explores how to make education and inspiration entertaining.
    Whitney discusses the logistical aspects of booking performers, including preparation and pricing. She also shares insights on working with camps to ensure a smooth event and the role of entertainers in creating engaging and impactful experiences for campers.
    Links:
    Academic Entertainment websiteEmail - info @ academicentertainment.comAcademic Entertainment Blog Posts

    • 44 min
    SCP 199: The Art of the Mini-Camp

    SCP 199: The Art of the Mini-Camp

    Curt and Chris discuss the concept of mini-camps as an introduction to the main camp for younger kids. They delve into how it gives children a taste of what a traditional overnight camp is like, and how it can help manage homesickness. Chris shares his experience of running a 'discovery camp', providing an introduction to camp life for children and their apprehensive parents too. 

    • 24 min
    Episode 198: Unleashing Your Campers’ Inner Problem Solver: Puzzle Hunts and More

    Episode 198: Unleashing Your Campers’ Inner Problem Solver: Puzzle Hunts and More

    Curt and Chris discuss various puzzle activities that can be a great addition to your camp program. They share their experiences with puzzle hunts, races, and escape rooms, highlighting the appeal of problem-solving over narrative. Four distinct puzzle-based camp activities are detailed including Station Puzzle Races and Puzzle Hunts. They share insights on the ideal group sizes for such activities, the logistical challenges, and the potential for revising and reusing puzzles in different contexts.

    • 28 min
    SCP 197: Magazine Style #10

    SCP 197: Magazine Style #10

    In this episode, Curt and Chris discuss a wide variety of topics for summer camps. This is their 10th magazine edition. This episode includes a special event idea, program idea, staff idea, new AI tool, some trivia questions, theme ideas, and more.
    Links: 
    Pika.art Stand-Up Paddle BoardsORTUR Laser Master 2 Laser Engraver

    • 39 min
    SCP 196: Great Ways to Thank Your Staff at the End of Summer

    SCP 196: Great Ways to Thank Your Staff at the End of Summer

    In this episode, Curt and Chris ramble on (as they do) about ways to thank the staff and celebrate the end of the summer camp season. From holding an end-of-summer staff party, giving unique gifts like rose quartz or a piece of camp land, to conducting fun activities like a slumber party, awarding gag gifts, or encouraging parents to share their thoughts on their child's counselor. They also highlight the importance of celebrating the accomplishments of the staff and the need for the staff to feel appreciated and remembered. 

    • 31 min

Customer Reviews

4.7 out of 5
18 Ratings

18 Ratings

Sean P C ,

Excellent, thoughtful resources

Curt and Chris have one goal - to make you better at running a camp, be it overnight or day. These guys bring a wealth of knowledge and provide guests and resources that are thought provoking and timely. Their passion in this field is evident and their podcast is incredible.

Will352 ,

Great content!

I’ve gotten a lot out of this podcast! Appreciate the content, opinions, and the well balanced conversation and format!

Bearded Sage on the Hill ,

Can’t go without

Fantastic content. As a camp director lacking ideas for creative programming, these guys are a lifesaver. These guys are the real deal in the trenches with us.

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