CampHacker - Travis Allison

Shows

The CampHacker PodcastModern “Operations” at your Camp - with Peter Elbaum and Rachel Kent - CampHacker #216Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2025/opsFrom Paperwork to People: The “Ops” Deep Dive EpisodeAre you truly taking the operational side of camp seriously enough? If you're like many camp leaders, the answer is probably "not yet." This episode of the CampHacker Podcast dives deep into the often-undiscussed world of camp operations. Join hosts Travis Allison, Chris Hudson, and Rachel Kent, along with special guest Peter Elbaum from Camp Graystone, as they share insights, prac...2025-05-2945 min

The CampHacker PodcastThe State of DEI and Camp in 2025 - with Simone Gamble and Rachel Kent - CampHacker #215Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2025/dei-camp-2025Is Summer Camp Inherently Racist? A Frank Discussion on DEI in the Camp IndustryThis week on the CampHacker Podcast, Travis Allison gets straight to the point with Chris Hudson, Rachel Kent, and Simone Gamble: Is summer camp inherently racist? They dig into the history of camping and how it's wrestled with being truly open and welcoming to everyone. The group doesn't shy away from the industry's past and looks closely...2025-05-1546 min

The CampHacker PodcastThe Power of Performance in Every Camp - with Carolyn Daniels and Theo Lencicki - CampHacker #214Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2025/power-of-performanceUnlocking Hidden Potential: What All Camps Can Learn From the Magic of Performing Arts CampsWhat's the secret sauce of performing arts camps? Host Travis Allison chats with Chris Hudson, Carolyn Daniels (Meridan YMCA), and Theo Lencicki (Camp Broadway) to uncover the surprising lessons that all camps can use.Discover how embracing elements of theater, music, and dance builds community, fosters leadership, boosts confidence, and creates safe spaces for...2025-05-0144 min

The CampHacker PodcastBecoming a Modern Mentor - with Michael Garcia - CampHacker #213Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2025/modern-mentorWhat does it take to be a great mentor in the camp industry?This week on CampHacker, hosts Travis Allison, Chris Hudson, and guest Michael Garcia (author of "Becoming a Modern Mentor") dive into the essential elements of effective mentorship. They share personal stories of impactful mentors, discuss strategies for setting boundaries, and explore how to empower staff to reach their full potential. Learn how to move beyond "voluntold" management and...2025-04-1755 min

The CampHacker PodcastCustomer Service is Culture - with Heather Withrow - CampHacker #212Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2025/culture-customerMastering Camp Culture: From Disney Magic to Tea-Kettle Secrets!Dive into the latest episode of the CampHacker Podcast, where Travis Allison, Chris Hudson, and Heather Withrow unravel the secrets behind creating a vibrant and intentional camp culture. From the enchanting influences of Disney to the practical magic of a 'nurse mobile' during check-ins, this episode is packed with quirky insights and savvy advice. Learn why first impressions matter, how to win...2025-04-0348 min

The CampHacker PodcastStop Avoiding Talking to Parents - with Ruby Compton and Joanna Warren Smith - CampHacker #211Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2025/talk-to-parentsSave the dodging and weaving for wide-game, not for avoiding camp parents!On this episode of CampHacker, Travis and Chris are joined by Ruby Compton, and Joanna Warren Smith to really dig into the importance of communicating with camp parents. They discuss the common issue of camps avoiding communication with parents and emphasize the importance of timely, meaningful responses to build trust and ensure camper safety. The conversation highlights the need...2025-03-2044 min

The CampHacker PodcastCan Camp Directors Have Fun? - with Ariella Skoczylas - CampHacker #208Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2025/no-funIs it even possible to have fun while being a camp director?This week on CampHacker, we're tackling a big question: Should camp directors have fun? It might seem obvious, but we dig deeper than just surface-level enjoyment. We explore what "fun" really means in the context of the demanding world of summer camp. Our guest, Ariella Skoczylas, joins Travis and Chris to share her insights on balancing the hard work...2025-02-1238 min

The CampHacker PodcastSo You Want to Hire a Camp Director... - with Esther Eisenhard & Dan Weir - CampHacker #207Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2025/hire-directorExpectations vs. Reality: The Camp Director Job MarketJoin Travis Allison, Chris Hudson, Dan Weir, and Esther Eisenhard for another fantastic episode of the CampHacker podcast! This episode dives into key challenges and emerging trends in recruiting and retaining camp staff. Learn about tools and strategies to manage camp operations more effectively, improve the candidate experience, and set up your camp for success. Plus, find out about specific job openings and...2025-01-161h 00

The CampHacker PodcastNoticing: An Essential Skill For Camp Pros - CampHacker #206Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2024/noticingUse noticing to build a culture of inclusivity and intention.In this episode of the CampHacker podcast, Travis and Chris discuss the vital skill of 'noticing' at camp. The duo share how camp leaders can foster awareness among staff and campers, ensuring dynamic and inclusive programs. They share practical tips, including the importance of diverse staff hiring, continuous feedback, and re-evaluating programs based on the feedback that comes from your “noticing” data...2024-12-1943 min

The CampHacker PodcastCamps and AI: Fall 2024 - CampHacker #202Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2024/ai-fall-2024The State of AI and Camps: Fall 2024In this episode of the CampHacker podcast, Travis and Chris explore the revolutionary impact of artificial intelligence on summer camp management. They dive into AI's role in streamlining operations, automating tasks, and enhancing staff training and parent communication. Discover specific tools like Perplexity, ChatGPT, and Notebook LM, which improve efficiency while addressing privacy concerns. Learn how AI can transform everything from scheduling and communication to monetization...2024-10-2448 min

The CampHacker PodcastAre We Over-Programming Our Camps? - CampHacker #201Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2024/over-programmed Are camps so packed with activities that it's actually detrimental? In this episode of the CampHacker podcast, hosts Travis Allison and Chris Hudson discuss the concept of overprogramming at camps, questioning if an abundance of scheduled activities could be detrimental. With insights from camp consultants, they explore balancing structured and unstructured time, considering the interests of children, parents, and staff. They also discuss generational changes in camp staff and touch on post-pandemic effects on...2024-10-1045 min

The CampHacker PodcastChris and Travis Start a Camp in 2025 - CampHacker #200Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2024/05/start-camp-2025If we were starting a summer camp from scratch, here’s what we can do!200 episodes and over 14 years, the CampHacker Podcast has been around literally so long that we actually can’t find the first few episodes (seriously, if you find them, holler!).After 200+ hours (that’s 1.5 weeks, people!), it’s time to put our money where our mouths are…hypothetically at least.In this episode, Travis and...2024-06-0647 min

The CampHacker PodcastHow Will We Make It to Summer 2035? - with Stephane Richard - CampHacker #198Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2024/05/camp-2035How are you doing at pushing past the overwhelm and considering the big picture?If you’re reading this on release (mid-May) - it may feel impossible to get out of the weeds and think about the future.That’s fair - and - in order for our industry, and even our camps to make it the next 10 years, we need to consider the challenges that we’re going to face and the opportunities we’ll discover...2024-05-2350 min

The CampHacker Podcast13 Industry Experts, 13 Tips for New Camp Directors - CampHacker #197Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2024/04/13-tips-for-new-camp-prosNew and new-ish Camp Directors, this one is for you. Kick some butt this summer.There are a TON of full-time camp professionals that have entered the industry post-COVID.For those of us that have been around for a while, we know how incredibly difficult the first few years of the job are. You’re figuring out what this level of responsibility means for you and your team and wi...2024-05-1222 min

The CampHacker PodcastSetting and Honoring Boundaries - with Kyrah Altman - CampHacker #185Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2023/10/setting-and-honoring-boundaries-We are good at so many things as camp pros. Boundaries, writ-large, is not one of those things.We are excited to kick off this, the 13th season of CampHacker with an episode that will especially resonate with those coming off of a wild summer.We are grateful to our guest Kyrah Altman for not only suggesting the topic but...2023-10-1945 min

The CampHacker PodcastThe Power of Your Alumni Community - CampHacker #183Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2023/05/alumni-community-Do you wish your camp had the benefits of an engaged alumni community?It’s a gift to have a group of people that intimately “get” what your camp is all about.And, alumni can be like getting a gym membership or Ikea furniture as a gift. Ultimately useful, but a crap-ton of work to get there.Once you’ve got it going, alumni can be a...2023-05-1839 min

The CampHacker PodcastNew Career or New Camp - Our Best Advice - with Dan Weir - CampHacker #182Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2023/05/new-career-new-campWhat would we do if we were starting at a completely new to us summer camp?We’re so grateful to have one of our founding CampHacker hosts Dan Weir join us this episode. Welcome back, Dan!To support the vast number of new camp directors, Dan, Chris, Joe and Travis engage in a thought exercise to put take all the knowledge they have now and plopped themselves in a...2023-05-0750 min

The CampHacker Podcast9 Things New Families Need to Know - CampHacker #165Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2022/04/9-tips-new-familiesHow to make campers & families feel like insiders - before they even get to camp!After a few years away from a regular summer, we likely have more new families than ever.One of the biggest “shake off the rust” things that we need to remember is how we welcome and prepare new families for their, or their camper’s first time at camp.Joe, Travis and Gabz get togethe...2022-04-2146 min

The CampHacker PodcastSuccession Planning - CampHacker #163Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2022/02/succession-planningThe year after you leave camp, how will it be doing? How does that reflect on your succession planning?What’s the plan?Seriously. When you, or another senior staff leaves… Who will pick up where you/they left off?Where are the procedures?What are the most important parts of the culture?Who knows the wifi password?Yes, even t...2022-03-2447 min

The CampHacker PodcastMake the Most of the Next 100 Days - with Abigail Stuart and Ari Polsky - CampHacker #161Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2022/02/the-next-100-daysWhen it’s crunch time, you need to make sure all systems are GO. Here are the 10 most vital tips to make the most of the summer camp home stretch.Not only did we get some great feedback on our last episode with Ari and Abi, they realized that as they were preparing for their upcoming summers, they were relying on some tried and true strategies that their years in the “camp ops”...2022-02-2439 min

The CampHacker PodcastBuilding Trust with Parents - with Rachel Kent - CampHacker #160Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2022/02/building-trust-with-parentsRegaining and building trust is one of our top post-pandemic priorities.We know, we know. You have a million other “post-pandemic priorities”, but this is one you can’t let slip!After 2 years of a pandemic that had us in a consistent tornado of fear AND for some, 2 years of no camp, we have some trust to build with families! But, like many things about the pandemic, there’s a silver lining h...2022-02-1044 min

The CampHacker PodcastHow Can We Be More Motivated, Efficient, Productive & Relaxed? - CampHacker #159Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2022/01/how-can-we-be-more-motivatedCheck-in with yourself. What do you need? Here’s how to make it happen.Motivation isn’t innate. There are times that, for whatever reason, we need a boost.Either it’s a project that we find difficult, or we aren’t getting the support or rest we need, or any number of things that can get us feeling down and distracted.It happens to everyone, including Joe, Travis and Gabz...2022-01-2744 min

The CampHacker PodcastMarketing When You REALLY Don't Want To - CampHacker #158Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2021/01/marketing-when-you-dont-want-toIt’s not about selling people on camp. It’s about telling your stories.Do you like every single part of being a camp director? Come on, be honest.There’s something that is every camp director’s kryptonite - something that you KNOW you need to do, and you probably do it, but just the thought of it makes you feel gross.For many directors out there, marketing is that...2022-01-1353 min

The CampHacker PodcastThe Value of a Great Operations Director - with Abigail Stuart and Ari Polsky - CampHacker #157Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2021/12/operations-directorIt’s time for Camp Directors to stop trying to do everything. Invest in operations.Ari Polsky, the smartie that he is, posed this question in the COVID-19 + Camp Slack last June:“Based off the texts I have received from a few camp colleagues, and the current setup work I am doing I have some thoughts/questions:Are we (as a field) investing enough in operations and systems staff?How are...2021-12-3040 min

The CampHacker PodcastHow to Be a Better Delegator - CampHacker #155Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2021/12/be-a-better-delegatorWho’s the best delegator you’ve ever met?The working title of this episode is “delegate like your life depends on it”.A bit dramatic? Yes. Kind of true? Also yes!If you can’t delegate - if everything at camp needs to run by you before it happens - if you need to facilitate every hard conversation - then you (and your camp) may not last very long.2021-12-0247 min

The CampHacker PodcastWe Are S*it Scared About The Future of Summer Camp - with Jolly Corley & Ruby Compton - CampHacker #151Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2021/10/future-of-camp-pt-1Yes - S*it scared.As Ruby points out in this episode, the CampHacker team doesn’t shy away from saying the hard things.Episode 39 of the Podcast, recorded in 2012 talked all about why the camp industry was in peril.Switch those last two numbers and fast-forward to 2021, and we’re STILL in many of those same perils.Like many industries, the pandemic has further amplified the thin...2021-10-0738 min

The CampHacker PodcastDoes the Camp Industry Need a Union? - with Alana Matteson - CampHacker #150Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2021/09/camp-unionHow might (or might not) a union help serve Camp Pros as they navigate an increasingly stressful profession?At the end of August, a particularly thought-provoking post was made in the Summer Camp Professionals Facebook group.After hearing about some of the horror stories of this, and past summers, a pro posted this:“…Its become clear to me in the last few months that the people in charge of camp...2021-09-2344 min

The CampHacker PodcastWhy We Volunteer - with Matt Honsberger - CampHacker #149Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2021/06/why-we-volunteerOver 16 hours of volunteer podcasting this year. Why do we do it? How can we encourage the next generation of camp pros to give back to the industry…There are SO many people that love and support the industry. From Podcast hosts, to speakers, to bloggers, to association volunteers, to contributors in the online communities, there are tens of thousands of volunteer hours poured into the industry every year.This episode is...2021-06-241h 09

The CampHacker PodcastStaff Recruitment for Next Summer Begins NOW - CampHacker #148Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2021/06/recruitment-begins-nowWas staffing a pain for you this year? Let’s get ahead of this beast for next summer!The global pandemic has hit our industry hard in so many ways, but one of them that we didn’t really expect was how hesitant our youth and young adults who have traditionally served every summer at camp would be about joining us for another season. And whether that was because they...2021-06-1048 min

The CampHacker PodcastSummer Self-Care for Camp Directors - with Kate Taylor - CampHacker #147Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2021/05/summer-self-careBoundaries, sleep, and exercise - tools for camp pros that are just as important as duct tape and zip ties.This isn’t some fluffy episode where we tell you to take up meditation and manifest your stress away. Self-care for Camp Directors seems like an oxymoron most days. To accomplish any sort of balance in our camp lives, we need to put just as much intention into our self-care habits as we pu...2021-05-2744 min

The CampHacker PodcastIncentivizing Staff Beyond the Paycheque - CampHacker #146Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2021/05/incentivizing-staff-beyond-the-paychequePay your staff more - AND - here are some other ways to appreciate and incentivize the camp experience.We should all be working to pay our staff more. Full stop.That being said, it may be impossible to pay staff for the sheer amount of joy, passion, blood, sweat and tears they put in to the work they do. So even WHEN we’re able to pay staff more, we sh...2021-05-1348 min

The CampHacker PodcastMultiple Memorable Moments Mandatory - CampHacker #145Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2021/04/memorable-momentsIt’s going to happen. Here’s how to fire with compassion and dignity.We, as camp pros are all about stories.Stories about moments where we know that kids lives were changed. Where do those stories come from?There are so many intentional things that go into creating the type of environment where those moments flourish. Great camp pros know how to cultivate these type of momen...2021-04-2945 min

The CampHacker PodcastWhen You Have No Choice but to FIRE Someone - CampHacker #144Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2021/04/fire-someoneIt’s going to happen. Here’s how to fire with compassion and dignity.This is another thing that’s just “part of the job”.Firing someone is especially hard in a place that’s so connected with people’s emotions.Often, when someone is fired at camp, it’s not usually because they have anything against us, or even about camp. They’ve usually just made a choice that is against po...2021-04-1550 min

The CampHacker PodcastGetting Stuck & Unstuck - CampHacker #142Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2021/03/stuck-and-unstuckNever ever ever ever ever ever say “We’ve always done it this way” again.How often do you feel stuck in a rut?Becuase of this year, because of the work, because of the stress, there are always reasons to get stuck, but being a true Camp Maverick means that you’re quick to recognize those moments, and quick to being the process of “unstucking” yourself.Chris, Gabz, Travis and J...2021-03-1849 min

The CampHacker PodcastWill Camp Director Be a Career in 5 Years? - CampHacker #141Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2021/03/camp-director-careerThis episode is a loving punch in the gut.As we’ve said before, it’s our job as camp directors to think about the big things.And sometimes, those big things aren’t popular, or happy-go-lucky things, but that doesn’t make them any less important!Our podcast is no different. Back in April 2020, we broached the topic of “What if camp doesn’t run in 2020?”...2021-03-0446 min

The CampHacker PodcastThe Eye of the Eagle: What to Watch for in 2021 - CampHacker #140Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!CampHacker: Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2021/02/eye-of-eagle-2021Our job is to look forward. But when you feel like you don’t have time, allow the CampHacker crew to help!Have you heard the expression “in uncharted waters?”. Of course, you have.Well, right now, in February 2021, we’re in the uncharted river paddling towards the uncharted waterfall, which descends into the uncharted wading pool.Even for camps that ran last sum...2021-02-1852 min

Camp Code - Leadership & Staff Training Podcast for Camp DirectorsTraining Staff to Work With Parents - with Travis Allison - Camp Code #82Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/camp-code/work-with-parentsBecause you aren’t the only one that needs to wow your camp families!Beth and Ruby are joined by Travis Allison to breakdown the importance of your staff being calm, cool and collected when interacting with their camper’s parents.Do you remember your 16-20 year old self? Talking to adults is scary enough, without the fact that you are looking after the most important thing in their world.Gr...2021-02-0943 min

The CampHacker PodcastRepost: Racism in Recreation - with Dr. Daniel Theriault - The CampHacker PodcastHave some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find show notes and more at: https://www.camphacker.tv/podcast/2020/08/racism-in-recreationA repost of an important conversation around how to make the camp and recreation industries a more welcoming place for a wider range of people. In this special summer bonus episode, Travis is joined by Dr. Daniel Theriault to discuss racism, power and privilege in the recreation industry. Dr. Theriault and Travis dig into some of the work that’s needed to subvert these unhealthy systems within the rec and camp ind...2021-01-2838 min

The CampHacker Podcast2020 All Tool of the Week Episode - CampHacker #136Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!It’s our annual “Tool of the Week” show! All tools, all the time!There are too many links to cram into these show-notes, so find them all at https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2020/12/all-tools-2020New Tools Used In the last 4 monthsTravis: 3D Printed Mask BracketRocketBook Orbit (and Cloud Cards)Joe: Orient Your Screens To Be On Top of One AnotherFastcap Measuring Tape - Metric / ImperialChris: Padlet.com - online bulletin boardGabz:Apple PencilPhone A...2020-12-241h 08

The CampHacker PodcastOther Sources of Revenue - CampHacker #133Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2020/11/other-sources-of-revenueCamp people are creative people and this year, more than ever, we need to extend that creativity into revenue generation.Haven’t we talking about this before? Yes! Twice! AND - Can you ever have enough ideas for drumming up some new revenue?Join Gabz, Chris, Travis and Joe as they unpack a TON of new ideas to generate some more money to help your camp whether the financial lo...2020-11-121h 03

The CampHacker PodcastRunning Camp with Less - CampHacker #132Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find more at http://www.camphacker.tv/podcast/2020/10/running-camp-with-lessSummer 2021 will probably not be a summer of abundance. Here’s how to be ready to do just as much (or more) with less at your camp this summer. This will be a summer that will unify camps that are used to having lots and those who are making it work with less.As we gear up and mask up for the summer of 2021, our program budgets will quickly turn into hand-sanitizer bud...2020-10-291h 05

The CampHacker PodcastCreating Your Own Support Network - CampHacker #131Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full notes and links at - https://camphacker.tv/podcast/2020/10/creating-your-own-support-networkThe road to the summer of 2021 is one that we shouldn’t walk alone.Camp Directors everywhere are so quick to say “it’s lonely at the top” but does the conversation really stop there?We are doing the best we can, but at a certain point, we can’t do it alone.Who do you turn to? Who are the people that you can rely on when thing...2020-10-1551 min

The CampHacker PodcastWhat Have We Learned in the Last 6 Months? - CampHacker #130Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Find full show notes and links at https://camphacker.tv/podcastAt the end of a long and weird summer, let’s take a second to reflect on what we’ve learned from a Summer Camp season in a global pandemic. Welcome to season 10 of the CampHacker Podcast.We’re on the other side of the summer of 2020.Wait, really? Where did the summer go? What happened?We need to do what Camp Pros do best. It’s the skill th...2020-10-011h 04

The CampHacker PodcastRacism in Recreation - with Dr. Daniel Theriault - The CampHacker PodcastHave some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!A conversation around how to make the camp and recreation industries a more welcoming place for a wider range of people. In this special summer bonus episode, Travis is joined by Dr. Daniel Theriault to discuss racism, power and privilege in the recreation industry. Dr. Theriault and Travis dig into some of the work that’s needed to subvert these unhealthy systems within the rec and camp industry.It’s a great interview and we’re so grateful to Dr. Theriau...2020-08-2538 min

The CampHacker PodcastWhat Will Camp Look Like in 2025? - CampHacker #129Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!We need to be in this for the long-run. Think ahead to 2025 with the CampHacker Podcast.Things are hard now. It’s no doubt.However, through hard things, comes the opportunity for big and beautiful changes.It’s is the idea of weathering the storm and watching the flowers thrive.Give yourself a break from the doom and gloom to think about what your camping program will look like in 5 years. 5 summers from now, what do you want to be p...2020-05-1443 min

The CampHacker PodcastReal Talk - How We're Taking Our Minds Off of COVID-19 - CampHacker #128Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Real Talk. Dealing with COVID and camp is hard and we can’t keep going at this 24/7. What are Travis, Dan and Joe doing to avoid thinking about COVID-19?You may be a work-horse. You have been the camp counsellor who stayed up until 3 am to finish that extra special surprise for your campers. You may have been the Program Director who spent hours upon hours trying to quash staff drama. You may have even spent the night pouring over accreditation standards and thinking about ev...2020-04-3046 min

The CampHacker PodcastMarketing Your Summer Camp Today - with Jiné Andreozzi and Amanda Hinski - CampHacker #126Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Being (or acting as) a marketing expert. The perfect answer for when someone asks, “so, what do you do the rest of the year?" Many of us didn’t get into this business because we love marketing. We do what we do because we believe in the transformative power that the camp experience has on a child’s life. We do it because we want to create communities of inclusion and welcoming for our staff. We do it because we want to create a world of creat...2020-04-0246 min

The CampHacker PodcastRe-Post - Combating Communicable Diseases at Summer Camp - CampHacker #56Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!2020 Re-post - Preventing Spread of Norwalk and Other Infections at CampHey Camp Pros, with concerns about the coronavirus and COVID-19, we’re going off-schedule and digging this show out of the CampHacker archives.Shortly, we’ll be releasing a new episode that specifically focuses on what camp pros should be thinking about when it comes to camp, coronavirus and COVID-19.Sign-up for the Go Camp Pro newsletter and we’ll send the episode right to your inbox.From Travis: I have o...2020-03-0651 min

The CampHacker PodcastOther Sources of Income - with Jalisa Danhof - CampHacker #123Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!More money, more mission, but also…more problems?You’ve heard Travis say this time and time again.“Money moves the mission”.In this day and age, if you want to run a successful year-round camp business with multiple full-time staff, all while keeping camper fees reasonable, you likely need some financial support! Donations and grants are incredibly helpful, but if you can tap into a market that works for your local community or potential clients, it can be a great way to s...2020-02-201h 09

CampHacker Podcast - CampHacker.TVOther Sources of Income - with Jalisa Danhof - CampHacker #123More money, more mission, but also…more problems?You’ve heard Travis say this time and time again.“Money moves the mission”.In this day and age, if you want to run a successful year-round camp business with multiple full-time staff, all while keeping camper fees reasonable, you likely need some financial support! Donations and grants are incredibly helpful, but if you can tap into a market that works for your local community or potential clients, it can be a great way to supplement your income and use that money to help improve your sum...2020-02-201h 09

CampHacker Podcast - CampHacker.TVThe Future of Summer Camp - with Stacie Simpson - CampHacker #122What you should be thinking about to ensure your summer camp stands the test of time.If you’re reading this on release in February, then you know that time is running short on your time to do some of the deep philosophical work that can only happen when summer isn’t on the horizon. This episode is for when you have the brain-space, or, maybe it’s for when you need to not think about this coming summer for a second.(You’re an adult, we’re not going to tell you how to live your...2020-02-061h 12

CampHacker Podcast - CampHacker.TVAdventure Programming and Training - CampHacker #121Adventure programming is about way more than a $1M ropes course!Adventure programming, challenge courses, low ropes, rock walls, team-building, staff construction, initiatives, WHATEVER you want to call it, this episode is about that.This type of camp program has really been changing and growing over the years. From the early days where people built and tested their own ropes courses to today where zip-lines are tested by the same people who certify elevators, we’ve certainly seen it grow.One thing that has remained true is the goal of adventure programming. Campers ta...2020-01-231h 12

CampHacker Podcast - CampHacker.TVThe All Tool of the Week Episode - Part 2The All TOWS Show #2 - CampHacker #120January 9, 2020Fantastic Focus Groups - CampHacker #119CampHackerPodcast: Subscribe in iTunes | StitcherTool of the Week - (insert trombone music here)We’re back with a second edition of an all tool of the week show. We received a ton of positive feedback about the last episode and because we’re all about giving the camp pros what they want…here you go!Tune in to hear all about Gab, Dan and Travis’ favourite tools that help make them a better...2020-01-091h 08

CampHacker Podcast - CampHacker.TVFantastic Focus GroupsFantastic, frank, feedback from families and staff.There are not many industries out there like ours…for many reasons!One of the primary ones is the focus that we all share on relationship building. Whether it’s between campers, staff and campers, staff and staff or admin and staff, building cohesive and strong relationships may as well be the theme of every day at camp.The relationships that our camps have with their families are unique and wonderful, too. Yes, families are our clients and any business out there can say, “We treat our cl...2019-12-2654 min

CampHacker Podcast - CampHacker.TVSupporting LGTBQ+ Campers and FamiliesWe can go beyond acceptance.One of the things we all know to be true about camp is how much better of the world would be if EVERY child spent at least one week at camp.With that in mind, it’s important that we are consistently looking at how we are best serving campers and families that may be under-represented in our camp communities.Newsflash! Even though in the last 10 years we’ve begun to really talk about inclusion, there have been campers and families who have identified as L...2019-12-121h 21

CampHacker Podcast - CampHacker.TVCreating Your Own Support NetworkBecause you’re not in this alone.It wouldn’t be the revelation of the century if we said that being a full-time Camp Pro can be incredibly lonely.Most of us work in small (or solo) teams, we usually are the only person in our part of the hierarchy, we manage many people (and their emotions) and we work incredibly hard.If we don’t think about building our support networks intentionally, camp can be an incredibly exhausting industry to be a part of the long term.This time of year...2019-11-2850 min

CampHacker Podcast - CampHacker.TVWhat Makes You Productive?Being not just productive, but effective.This is an episode for the off-season. It’s an episode that you may need when camp is quiet and you’re in the sweet spot where the summer is still fading and the next one is not yet coming.As a camp director, your brain is the most important resource you have. It would be an understatement to say that there is a LOT of stuff that fills your brain. It would also be an understatement to say that a full-brain makes for a disorganized brain and a diso...2019-11-1444 min

The CampHacker PodcastWhen and How to Introduce Major Change at Camp - CampHacker #115Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!Ch-ch-ch-ch-changes!TIME TO FACE THE STRANGEIs it stuck in your head yet? Gotchya!Change. A 6 letter word that can start a revolution.Change. The nemesis of the phrase “we’ve always done it like that”.Change. One of the hardest things about being a full-time camp professional.Change. Absolutely necessary.The moment we stop changing as an industry, organization, or camp, is the moment we die. We, as an industry have such a great opport...2019-10-3155 min

CampHacker Podcast - CampHacker.TVWhen and How to Introduce Major Change at CampCh-ch-ch-ch-changes!TIME TO FACE THE STRANGEIs it stuck in your head yet? Gotchya!Change. A 6 letter word that can start a revolution.Change. The nemesis of the phrase “we’ve always done it like that”.Change. One of the hardest things about being a full-time camp professional.Change. Absolutely necessary.The moment we stop changing as an industry, organization, or camp, is the moment we die. We, as an industry have such a great opportunity to learn, grow and evolve to better serve our camper...2019-10-3155 min

CampHacker Podcast - CampHacker.TVContinuing Education for Experienced Camp ProsLearn outside of camp, to lead at camp.Following along with our last episode’s theme of learning, we wanted to bring this podcast episode to you at a time where you may be planning your professional development for the year. However, even if you aren’t, it’s never too early or late to start thinking about how to invest in your professional development.Watch out though! It’s easy to get stuck in the camp body of knowledge when you’re trying to be better for your job and for your camp. It’s good to st...2019-10-1758 min

CampHacker Podcast - CampHacker.TVLessons Learned from Summer 2019We are always learning.We’re back! After another wonderful summer of camp, Travis, Gab, Dan and Joe are here for Season 9 of the CampHacker Podcast.To get things started, our hosts share the biggest lessons that they learned from their 2019 camp season. That’s right, even these camp pros with over 50 years of combined experience are still learning. The best pros in the industry are the ones that are hungry for growth and one of the best ways to grow are from the hard-earned lessons that camp has a way of teaching us year afte...2019-10-031h 00

The CampHacker PodcastLessons Learned from Summer 2019 - CampHacker #113Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!We are always learning.We’re back! After another wonderful summer of camp, Travis, Gab, Dan and Joe are here for Season 9 of the CampHacker Podcast.To get things started, our hosts share the biggest lessons that they learned from their 2019 camp season. That’s right, even these camp pros with over 50 years of combined experience are still learning. The best pros in the industry are the ones that are hungry for growth and one of the best ways to grow are from the hard-earned less...2019-10-031h 00

CampHacker Podcast - CampHacker.TVWhat Inspires You to Be a Better Camp Pro? - CampHacker #112Tools, Podcasts, Books and Strategies for Sustainability as a Camp ProOne of the best things about being a long time camp pro is that every year, we essentially find ourselves doing the same cycle over and over again. While this can be tiring, even exhausting, if we think about it another way, it’s also an incredible opportunity to get better and better without (too many) extremely large learning curves.In your search for consistent improvement, the CampHacker crew wants to help! In this episode, Travis, Joe and Gab are joined by the wonderful Ru...2019-02-211h 01

CampHacker Podcast - CampHacker.TVFocusing on First Year Families - CampHacker #111Camper today, camper tomorrow, camper for life.This is the time of year (January, for those tuning in later) where we are really starting to think about bums in bunks. Your registrations are starting to roll in and your dedicated, long-time camp families have picked their sessions and things are looking good.Take a second and think about those returning families. They weren’t always returners. At some time down the road, that family made a decision to choose your camp. Now, fast forward 5 or 10 years and that family has given you thousands of dollars an...2019-01-241h 01

The CampHacker PodcastBig Issues at Day Camp This Year - CampHacker #110Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!It would be easy for the hard and fast overnight camp pros to see “Day Camp” in the title and move on.Don’t do that.There are logistical differences with both models of summer camp, but it’s so easy to see that what is relevant and pertinent to one, is the same for the other.Rituals, traditions, culture, integration, camaraderie, it’s a part of every camp experience, no matter when, or how often the campers go home. What is good for overni...2018-12-1350 min

CampHacker Podcast - CampHacker.TVBig Issues at Day Camp This Year - CampHacker #110It would be easy for the hard and fast overnight camp pros to see “Day Camp” in the title and move on.Don’t do that.There are logistical differences with both models of summer camp, but it’s so easy to see that what is relevant and pertinent to one, is the same for the other.Rituals, traditions, culture, integration, camaraderie, it’s a part of every camp experience, no matter when, or how often the campers go home. What is good for overnight, is good for day.All that being said...2018-12-1350 min

CampHacker Podcast - CampHacker.TVStaff Retention & Recruiting Tips - For Right Now - CampHacker #109Hey! Welcome back!We hope that you had an incredible summer.We also hope that you’ve had an incredible chance to take a breath and reflect on the magic that surely happened this summer. Or even, to not think about camp and…you know…sleep!Whether you’re still recovering, coming out of hibernation, or still in the busy season, it’s time to start setting the next summer up for success.Step one. Staffing.This time of year (October/November), is when the financial and emotional reality of the sch...2018-10-261h 13

CampHacker Podcast - CampHacker.TVDo This Now To Set Your Summer Camp Staff Up For SuccessHello Camp Pros!Well, it's late April/early May, and you know what that means.EVERYBODY PANIC!No no, only kidding! But likely, it can start to feel like it at this time of year.As we finish stretching to prepare for the sprint that is camp, we can't forget that the race we are about to run is not a solo event, it's a relay!For many of us, our staff are either starting to think about coming, or are starting to trickle up to camp. While it's s...2018-05-031h 04

CampHacker Podcast - CampHacker.TVAsk Doctor G - CampHacker InterviewOn this CampHacker interview Travis talks with Dr Deborah Gilboa (@askdoctorg) about her own camp experiences and how camps can become great resources to families.To see the resources we mentioned check out our shownotes at http://camphacker.tv/podcast.2018-04-2440 min

CampHacker Podcast - CampHacker.TVSupporting Staff Mental WellnessHow many of our camp brochures or websites preach that our camp teaches kids about grit and resilience?Okay everyone, put your hands down. Now, home many of us can say that we put that same effort into fostering grit and resilience with our staff? Sure, we may have staff check-ins and encourage staff to write motivational notes to each other, but although those are great, the times when just that was enough are likely coming to a end.Before we continue, let's check ourselves remember that the world that we...2018-03-1700 min

CampHacker Podcast - CampHacker.TVProven Summer Camp Marketing MethodsIt's that time of year again. Registration has been open for a bit, staff applications are rolling in and school groups are calling to book for Outdoor Education.You've made that first big push. Way to go!Now, let's get at it, shall we? Summer Camp is the main reason why most of us are here. We believe that every camper deserves a week at camp. We believe that every camp is great, but we're REALLY proud of our camp and we REALLY hope that kids will come.Unfortunately, hope...2018-03-1345 min

The CampHacker PodcastProven Summer Camp Marketing Methods - CampHacker #106Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!It's that time of year again. Registration has been open for a bit, staff applications are rolling in and school groups are calling to book for Outdoor Education.You've made that first big push. Way to go!Now, let's get at it, shall we? Summer Camp is the main reason why most of us are here. We believe that every camper deserves a week at camp. We believe that every camp is great, but we're REALLY proud of our camp and we REALLY h...2018-03-1345 min

CampHacker Podcast - CampHacker.TVEncouraging the Next Generation of Camp Pros Tool of the Week – Make Yourself a Better Camp DirectorTravis: www.camelcamelcamel.com - Amazon price trackerDan: Bored and Brilliant by Manoush ZomorodiMatt: The Better Board - Message Matt for a more detailed explanationJoe: Google Photo Scan - iOS - AndoidYour Hosts:Travis Allison, Summer Camp Consultant - CampHacker.TV, Founder at Go Camp ProDan Weir, Director of Camping Services - Frost Valley YMCAJoe Richards, Executive Director - Pearce Williams Christian CentreMatt Honsberger, Camp Dir...2017-12-0934 min

CampHacker Podcast - CampHacker.TVPreparing Yourself for a Sustainable Camp Career - CampHacker #85This week, CampHacker Travis is joined by camp pros Marc Cooper from Camp Tamarack and Topher Aderhold from Camp Gray. Travis, Marc and Topher put on their thinking caps to share their secrets for what it takes to not only survive in the full-time camp world, but thrive in it. From balancing your camp and personal life, to your every day demeanour during the summer, this episode covers a lot of ground!2015-11-2047 min

CampHacker Podcast - CampHacker.TVQuick Tips to Effectively Market Your Camp This Fall - CampHacker #72Our Best Summer Camp Marketing Tips Podcast: Subscribe in iTunes | Stitcher App Podcast: Subscribe in iTunes | Stitcher App Want to get your fall rolling with fast, effective marketing tips? This is the show for you!Gab and I had a chance to do one of our favourite kind of shows - rapid-fire, back-and-forth answers to questions directly from you, the audience.Since it's the first show of the fall season people are telling us...2014-09-2048 min

CampHacker Podcast - CampHacker.TVFantastic Family Camps - CampHacker #64Podcast: Subscribe in iTunes | Stitcher App Family Camps can be an awesome option for camps. Our co-hosts were unanimous in their support for the idea.Here's are some of the reason's that we all love family camp:It's a great way to give staff a break from the routine of the summer. Some of us have camps that run at the beginning of the summer (and give staff a "practice" for the season), in the middle (a time off for some staff and a reward to work Family Camp...2014-02-201h 14

CampHacker Podcast - CampHacker.TVFacebook Secrets for Super Summer Camp Marketing - CampHacker #63Facebook marketing webinar from Travis Allison and Blake Sunshine. We focussed on producing content and great Facebook ads.2014-01-3055 min