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    Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/start-from-scratch-2024

    From Passion to Reality: Starting and Running a Successful Day Camp

    In this episode of The Day Camp Pod, hosts Andy Pritikin and Sam Thompson delve into the world of starting and running a successful day camp. Featuring guests Corey Kalman, who started a franchise of sports camps in California, and Mario DelCueto, who launched a new day camp last summer, the episode covers everything from initial steps and marketing strategies to personalizing the camp experience and building strong community connections. The hosts also share useful tips for aspiring camp directors and emphasize the importance of following your passion and constantly improving your program.

    Highlights:

    04:23 Starting a Basketball Camp08:47 Expanding to After-School Programs12:15 Challenges and Strategies in Camp Management19:36 Mario's First Summer as a Camp Director25:23 Building Partnerships for Camp Success28:10 Creative Marketing Strategies29:38 Overcoming Initial Challenges31:39 Continuous Improvement and Staff Training

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    Your Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictKorey Kalman, Founder & Owner - Got Game SportsMario DelCueto, Camp Director - Mountain Camp MarinSponsors:

    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/CamptivitiesScheduling shouldn’t be so difficult and take as much time as it does! Come check out Camptivities to learn about all of our scheduling tools, specifically designed for camps by camp people. Save time, get rid of the mistakes, and get back to enjoying your summer! Find out more at camptivities.comCampMinderCampminder 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

    Staffing Retention and Recruitment Success: 37 Proven Strategies for Camp Directors is a comprehensive email course designed to help you attract, retain, and develop a high-quality camp staff team. This course is packed with practical tips and strategies that you can implement right away.

    Find out more at gocamp.pro/staff and use the code GOCAMPPOD10 at checkout!

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    Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/ownership-gold

    Inside the Camp Ownership World: Success Stories and Challenges

    Join Andy, Sam, and Justin Pritikin as they delve into the inspiring story of Jonathan Gold, a successful operator of three large private day camps in New Jersey. In this episode, Jonathan shares his journey, the risks and challenges he took on, and the lessons learned along the way. The second half brings in Justin to discuss how the next generation of camp operators can succeed. The conversation covers everything from financial planning in the camp business to the evolving career paths for young camp professionals. Plus, get insights into the current state of the day camp industry and valuable tips for prospective camp owners and directors. Tune in for an episode full of wisdom and practical advice.

    Highlights:

    01:41 Meet Jonathan Gold05:29 First Steps in the Camp Industry13:06 Taking Over Meadowbrook Day Camp17:46 Acquiring Oak Crest Day Camp26:17 Expanding to Multiple Camps27:12 Reviving a Dormant Camp32:50 Financial Realities of Camp Management37:11 Entrepreneurial Drive in Camp Ownership

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    If you love the Day Camp Pod, we would be grateful if you subscribed and left us a review. It’s SUPER easy, too! Just head to http://ratethispodcast.com/dcp

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    Your Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictJonathan M. Gold, MBA, PhD, Camp Owner/Director - the Arbor Group of CampsJustin Pritikin, Director of Staff - Everwood Day Camp

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    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/CamptivitiesScheduling shouldn’t be so difficult and take as much time as it does! Come check out Camptivities to learn about all of our scheduling tools, specifically designed for camps by camp people. Save time, get rid of the mistakes, and get back to enjoying your summer! Find out more at camptivities.comCampMinderCampminder 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
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    Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/eddie-norgard

    Navigating the Challenges of Camp Management while Fostering Creativity and Growth

    Eddie Norgard is a golden example of how hard work, creativity, and purpose can propel a talented young person in the camp industry. Eddie is a super-successful YMCA professional with a creative mind, an abundance of optimism, and an interesting career, going from entry-level YMCA worker with a scouting background, to one of the young leaders in our industry in less than a decade. You’re going to love this guy

    Highlights:

    01:36 Meet Eddie Norgard05:44 Journey into the YMCA08:36 Innovative Camp Solutions15:03 Building Community Relationships22:49 Revamping the Counselor Experience23:49 Empowering Counselors for Success24:34 The Importance of Camp Culture25:16 Building Relationships and Loyalty29:55 Opportunities in the Camp Industry

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    If you love the Day Camp Pod, we would be grateful if you subscribed and left us a review. It’s SUPER easy, too! Just head to http://ratethispodcast.com/dcp

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    Links From This Episode:

    Find these at https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/eddie-norgard

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    Your Hosts:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictEddie Norgard, Summer Camp Professional & Executive Director - YMCALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddienorgard/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eddienorgard/Email: [email protected]

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    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/CamptivitiesScheduling shouldn’t be so difficult and take as much time as it does! Come check out Camptivities to learn about all of our scheduling tools, specifically designed for camps by camp people. Save time, get rid of the mistakes, and get back to enjoying your summer! Find out more at camptivities.comCampMinderCampminder 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.com
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    Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/2024forward

    Navigating the Day Camp Renaissance: Staffing Solutions and Innovations


    Summer 24 is in the books, and our September to-do lists have turned into pumpkin spice


    Time to get the Day Camp Pod back on track for another great season of best practices and unique insights - To get things going, we’re bringing back a few of our all-stars from last season to debrief the past and look a little forward into the unknown- So kick back day campers and let’s do it.

    Highlights:

    05:40 Summer 2024 Reflections08:34 Staffing Challenges and Solutions12:05 Scheduling and Attendance Strategies25:07 Reflecting on Staff Attendance Strategies28:24 Discussing Campers Post-Pandemic Behavior30:50 Parental Involvement and Communication34:41 Staff Training and Support Systems37:05 The Importance of Camp Community45:04 Future of Camp Leadership and Branding

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    If you love the Day Camp Pod, we would be grateful if you subscribed and left us a review. It’s SUPER easy, too! Just head to http://ratethispodcast.com/dcp

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    YOUR HOSTS:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictSam Borek, Camp Owner/Director - Woodmont Day CampJustin Pritikin, Director of Staff - Everwood Day CampGregg Licht, Director - Elmwood Day Camp

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    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/CamptivitiesScheduling shouldn’t be so difficult and take as much time as it does! Come check out Camptivities to learn about all of our scheduling tools, specifically designed for camps by camp people. Save time, get rid of the mistakes, and get back to enjoying your summer! Find out more at camptivities.comCampMinderCampminder 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
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    Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/season-6-debrief

    The summer is upon us! Join us as we debrief the best Day Camp Pod Tid-Bits from the past eight months.

    Season 6 of the Day Camp Pod is winding down as we laser-focus on the daunting job before us. This episode, Sam & I debrief our ACA trip to Washington D.C. and then touch upon this season’s episodes with some important follow-ups.

    We’re so fortunate to be able to speak with so many smart, awesome people, and share valuable wisdom and best practices with the day camp community - So, kick back and enjoy the pod, as we’ll touch most of this season’s episodes - which you want to then go back and re-listen to, or listen for the first time if you haven’t already. THIS, IS THE DAY CAMP POD!

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    Do you read the show notes? Let us know - click the following link to receive 10% off a lifetime subscription of Go Camp Pro's 5-Minute Fridays. (psst. Even if you don't buy anything, clicking this link will still help!)
    (click here - https://bit.ly/pod-notes-discount)

    Review us on iTunes!
    If you love the Day Camp Pod, we would be grateful if you subscribed and left us a review. It’s SUPER easy, too! Just head to http://ratethispodcast.com/dcp

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    YOUR HOSTS:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictSponsors:

    Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible:

    AMSkier Insurance - https://www.amskier.com/ Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) - https://crs4rec.com/CRS - Disc Golf: https://crs4rec.com/disc-golf/

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    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!

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    Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/13-tips

    Going full-time is scary! These camp pros have some wise words to help any director find their footing.

    The Go Camp Pro team put together a really cool episode in which 13 top tier camp podcasters were asked for an important tip to tell any new camp director this season. Sam and Andy are both on it, it’s short and sweet, and there’s some great nuggets of knowledge. So pass on these wise word to your new full-timers, and for the jaded veterans we bet you will appreciate some of these as well. This, is the DAY CAMP POD!

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    Do you read the show notes? Let us know - click the following link to receive 10% off a lifetime subscription of Go Camp Pro's 5-Minute Fridays. (psst. Even if you don't buy anything, clicking this link will still help!)
    (click here - https://bit.ly/pod-notes-discount)

    Review us on iTunes!

    If you love the Day Camp Pod, we would be grateful if you subscribed and left us a review. It’s SUPER easy, too! Just head to http://ratethispodcast.com/dcp

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    YOUR HOSTS:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park District

    -

    Sponsors:

    Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible:

    AMSkier Insurance - https://www.amskier.com/ Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) - https://crs4rec.com/CRS - Outdoor Playgrounds: https://crs4rec.com/product-category/facility-enhancements/playgrounds/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!

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    Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/gen-z-staff

    He’s back! Justin's insight is more important than ever. You won’t want to miss this one!

    This past Tri-State Camp Conference, our all-star podcast guest, Justin Pritikin presented to a packed room of camp professionals about working with his generation’s workforce. Younger camp pros appreciated his candor in speaking up for them, while older camp directors appreciated his insight - and even offered him jobs. For the past month he has been giving variations of this session to camp leadership teams across the northeast, and he was generous enough to record a final presentation just for us, the podcast that broke him.

    I strongly encourage you to WATCH this presentation with all 296 slides on the GoCampPro YouTube Channel - because while the audio is stellar, the slides put it over the top. Stick around for the last 15 minutes of this podcast as well, as Sam and I will do a little Q & A with Justin. So, kick back and enjoy this super valuable chunk of wisdom that will absolutely help you better understand the inner workings of the Gen-Z Camp Workforce - THIS, IS THE DAY CAMP POD!

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    Do you read the show notes? Let us know - click the following link to receive 10% off a lifetime subscription of Go Camp Pro's 5-Minute Fridays. (psst. Even if you don't buy anything, clicking this link will still help!)
    (click here - https://bit.ly/pod-notes-discount)

    Review us on iTunes!

    If you love the Day Camp Pod, we would be grateful if you subscribed and left us a review. It’s SUPER easy, too! Just head to http://ratethispodcast.com/dcp

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    YOUR HOSTS:Justin Pritikin, Director of Staff - Everwood Day CampAndy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictSponsors:

    Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible:

    AMSkier Insurance - https://www.amskier.com/ Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) - https://crs4rec.com/

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    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!

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    Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/talking-teens

    Summer camps rarely meet their full potential of teen programing. Jeff Leiken is here to help us get into the teen mindset!

    There are very few camp consultant trainers in our industry over the past quarter century that have had the impact of Jeff Leiken. His impactful sessions at the major camp conferences, and his work with over 300 individual camps have utilized his unique insight on youth development.

    Some call him the camp counselor for camp directors, and we’ve snagged him for the next 45 minutes or so to talk shop about philosophies and best practices with our teenage campers and staff. THIS
 IS THE DAY CAMP POD!

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    Do you read the show notes? Let us know - click the following link to receive 10% off a lifetime subscription of Go Camp Pro's 5-Minute Fridays. (psst. Even if you don't buy anything, clicking this link will still help!)
    (click here - https://bit.ly/pod-notes-discount)

    Review us on iTunes!

    If you love the Day Camp Pod, we would be grateful if you subscribed and left us a review. It’s SUPER easy, too! Just head to http://ratethispodcast.com/dcp


    -

    YOUR HOSTS:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampJeff Leiken, President - Evolution Mentoring International

    Bonus Link: https://www.evolutionmentoring.com/

    Sponsors:

    Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible:

    AMSkier Insurance - https://www.amskier.com/ Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) - https://crs4rec.com/CRS - Splashpads & Aquatic Play: https://crs4rec.com/product-category/splashpad/

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    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!

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    Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/yes-chef

    Staff training is nearly upon us
will you be ready?

    Hulu’s award-winning TV show, THE BEAR teaches valuable lessons from running a restaurant, and turning your staff from good to great - that really resonate to running a summer camp. Eric Wittenberg of CamperMachine and CampStack fame gave this session with me at Tri-State last month and we’ve gotten tons of great feedback, so we thought we’d share it for those of you who missed it.

    The FULL VIDEO is on the GoCampPro YouTube Channel with all of our episodes - So check it out, as it’s better with visuals - THIS, IS THE DAY CAMP POD!

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    Do you read the show notes? Let us know - click the following link to receive 10% off a lifetime subscription of Go Camp Pro's 5-Minute Fridays. (psst. Even if you don't buy anything, clicking this link will still help!)
    (click here - https://bit.ly/pod-notes-discount)

    Review us on iTunes!

    If you love the Day Camp Pod, we would be grateful if you subscribed and left us a review. It’s SUPER easy, too! Just head to http://ratethispodcast.com/dcp

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    YOUR HOSTS:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampEric Wittenberg, Founder - Camper Machine, The Camp Stack

    Video and audio courtesy of Chris Komjian.


    Sponsors:

    Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible:

    AMSkier Insurance - https://www.amskier.com/ Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) - https://crs4rec.com/

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    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!

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    Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/additional-needs-staff

    A diverse staff team is a stronger staff team.

    Since 2020, camps have been more and more aware of their staff’s needs - particularly their pay, schedule flexibility, and the amount of burden they carry. But meanwhile, our staff have very similar additional needs as our campers do - and while we’re super patient and accommodating with our campers, we struggle with the balance and concept of accommodating our staff.

    We discuss this mental block we seem to have with Allison Krabill and Jordanna Grossinger, and it’s an excellent conversation that’s sure to make you see things a little bit differently - THIS, IS THE DAY CAMP POD!

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    Do you read the show notes? Let us know - click the following link to receive 10% off a lifetime subscription of Go Camp Pro's 5-Minute Fridays. (psst. Even if you don't buy anything, clicking this link will still help!)
    (click here - https://bit.ly/pod-notes-discount)

    Review us on iTunes!

    If you love the Day Camp Pod, we would be grateful if you subscribed and left us a review. It’s SUPER easy, too! Just head to http://ratethispodcast.com/dcp

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    YOUR HOSTS:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictAllison Krabill, Executive Director - The Summer Camp SocietyJordanna Grossinger, Director - Camp Robin HoodSponsors:

    Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible:

    AMSkier Insurance - https://www.amskier.com/ Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) - https://crs4rec.com/CRS - Emergency Alert System: https://crs4rec.com/product/emergency-alert-systems/

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    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!

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    Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/maximizing-summer-staff

    Increase your staff efficiency by maximizing your staff’s abilities.

    In today’s world of $4000 camp counselors, camps need to do everything possible to be efficient in how we staff our summer programs. We discuss this topic and more with Thomas Coffey from Southampton Day Camp, and the one and only Matt Kaufman from Camp Ramaquois. This topic transcends all camps, especially Sam’s municipal program, where it’s all about efficiencies. So kick back and enjoy it - THIS, IS THE DAY CAMP POD!

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    Do you read the show notes? Let us know - click the following link to receive 10% off a lifetime subscription of Go Camp Pro's 5-Minute Fridays. (psst. Even if you don't buy anything, clicking this link will still help!)
    (click here - https://bit.ly/pod-notes-discount)

    Review us on iTunes!

    If you love the Day Camp Pod, we would be grateful if you subscribed and left us a review. It’s SUPER easy, too! Just head to http://ratethispodcast.com/dcp

    -

    YOUR HOSTS:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictThomas Coffey, Director - Southhampton Camp & ClubMatt Kaufman, Director - Camp RamaquoisSponsors:

    Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible:

    AMSkier Insurance - https://www.amskier.com/ Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) - https://crs4rec.com/CRS - Emergency Alert System: https://crs4rec.com/product/emergency-alert-systems/

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    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!

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    Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/random-acts-ice-cream

    Looking to appreciate and recognize your staff better? Come listen and learn from the best in the business!

    One of the best parts of attending the CODA and ACA National Conference is meeting super smart day camp pros from all over the country, and I am so happy that we can share the genius of Dave Boyle and Meaghan Springer from Camp Cristina, of the Tampa YMCA.

    These two are awesome, and geysers of knowledge which they are eager to share with us, especially in the realm of staff recognition and appreciation. So get your notepad out, and get comfy - THIS, IS THE DAY CAMP POD!

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    Do you read the show notes? Let us know - click the following link to receive 10% off a lifetime subscription of Go Camp Pro's 5-Minute Fridays. (psst. Even if you don't buy anything, clicking this link will still help!)
    (click here - https://bit.ly/pod-notes-discount)

    Review us on iTunes!

    If you love the Day Camp Pod, we would be grateful if you subscribed and left us a review. It’s SUPER easy, too! Just head to http://ratethispodcast.com/dcp

    -

    YOUR HOSTS:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictDave Boyle, Executive Director - YMCA Camp CristinaMeagan Springer, Operations Director - YMCA Camp CristinaSponsors:

    Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible:

    AMSkier Insurance - https://www.amskier.com/ Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) - https://crs4rec.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, Camp Pro!

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    Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/transitioning-leadership

    No one becomes a director overnight.

    Taking over an existing camp operation is no small feat, and today we’re joined by two seasoned, self-made camp professionals who have each had unique challenges.

    It’s a great podcast for anyone looking to one day become a day camp operator, as we also explore the challenges of just getting into the camp director pipeline. Prepare yourself, people - THIS, is the DAY CAMP POD!

    -

    Do you read the show notes? Let us know - click the following link to receive 10% off a lifetime subscription of Go Camp Pro's 5-Minute Fridays. (psst. Even if you don't buy anything, clicking this link will still help!)
    (click here - https://bit.ly/pod-notes-discount)

    Review us on iTunes!

    If you love the Day Camp Pod, we would be grateful if you subscribed and left us a review. It’s SUPER easy, too! Just head to http://ratethispodcast.com/dcp

    -

    YOUR HOSTS:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Borek, Owner - Woodmont Day CampGregg Licht, Director - Elmwood Day CampSponsors:

    Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible:

    AMSkier Insurance - https://www.amskier.com/ Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) - https://crs4rec.com/

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    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!

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    Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/parents-at-camp

    Hiring parents as staff can be a double-edged sword


    There’s no better way to get adult staff to buy into your camp and your culture than to have their kids attending camp, and drinking your kool-aid.

    That said, there’s a lot of ins and outs, a lot of positives and a lot of negatives. And, it’s sort of a Day Camp thing - so let’s explore it with our guests Joe Smith, and Jay Milde. This, is the Day Camp Pod!

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    Do you read the show notes? Let us know - click the following link to receive 10% off a lifetime subscription of Go Camp Pro's 5-Minute Fridays. (psst. Even if you don't buy anything, clicking this link will still help!)
    (click here - https://bit.ly/pod-notes-discount)

    Review us on iTunes!
    If you love the Day Camp Pod, we would be grateful if you subscribed and left us a review. It’s SUPER easy, too! Just head to http://ratethispodcast.com/dcp

    -

    YOUR HOSTS:

    Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictJoe Smith, Executive Director - Spark Day CampJay Milde, Associate Director & Director of Staffing - Breezemont Day Camp

    Bonus Link:

    Working at Liberty Lake with Your Kids in Camp (PDF Download)

    -

    Sponsors:

    Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible:

    Camptivities - https://www.camptivities.com/ Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) - https://crs4rec.com/CRS - Kangaroo Jumper: https://crs4rec.com/kangaroo-jumper/

    -

    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!

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    Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/recruitment-and-retention

    Do you know what keeps your campers coming back?

    Getting campers through the door and keeping them there is an art form of empathy, creativity, and execution.

    Today we speak with two experts in the field who have literally created a playbook that can be utilized and appreciated by day camp pros, young and old
 THIS is the Day Camp Pod!

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    Do you read the show notes? Let us know - click the following link to receive 10% off a lifetime subscription of Go Camp Pro's 5-Minute Fridays. (psst. Even if you don't buy anything, clicking this link will still help!)
    (click here - https://bit.ly/pod-notes-discount)

    Review us on iTunes!

    If you love the Day Camp Pod, we would be grateful if you subscribed and left us a review. It’s SUPER easy, too! Just head to http://ratethispodcast.com/dcp

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    Get your own copy of the Camper Recruitment & Retention Playbook!
    https://campmarketingbook.com/

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    YOUR HOSTS:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictTravis Allison - Co-Founder & Consultant - Go Camp ProJoanna Warren Smith - Camp Consultant Sponsors:

    Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible:

    Camptivities - https://www.camptivities.com/ Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) - https://crs4rec.com/CRS - Shade structures: https://crs4rec.com/product/shade/

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    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!

  • Send us a text

    Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/in-between-moments

    Blocks are good, but it’s the grout that holds everything together.

    At Day Camp, we spend the majority of our planning time working on our militaristic program grids of athletics, arts, swim, etc. But the day camp day ALSO includes the “in-between moments.” These can be boring wastes of time, or create exciting and memorable CAMPY opportunities that kids will remember far longer than the ball they hit, or the bracelet they wove.

    Let’s ask Michael Brandwein how HE feels about this - because I’m sure he’s got some thoughts and ideas
 THIS, is the Day Camp Pod!

    -

    Do you read the show notes? Let us know - click the following link to receive 10% off a lifetime subscription of Go Camp Pro's 5-Minute Fridays. (psst. Even if you don't buy anything, clicking this link will still help!)
    (click here - https://bit.ly/pod-notes-discount)

    Review us on iTunes!

    If you love the Day Camp Pod, we would be grateful if you subscribed and left us a review. It’s SUPER easy, too! Just head to http://ratethispodcast.com/dcp

    -

    Get more Michael!

    Webinar, Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons, March 26 & 27, 2024: Brandwein on Training: The Step-by-Step System for Planning & Presenting Your Best Staff Training EverWebinar, Friday, May 17, 2024: Brandwein on Super Staff SuperVision: The Quick Course on Outstanding Skills to Coach, Motivate, & Bring Out the Best in Staff

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    YOUR HOSTS:Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictMichael Brandwein, Speaker, Trainer and Author - https://www.michaelbrandwein.com

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    Books mentioned in podcast:

    Skill of the Day: What Great Leaders of Young People Do & SayTraining Terrific Staff Vol. 2Super Staff SuperVision

    Available at www.michaelbrandwein.com/store

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    Sponsors:

    Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible:

    Camptivities - https://www.camptivities.com/ Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) - https://crs4rec.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, Camp Pro!

  • Send us a text

    Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/the-staff-experience

    What’s the best way to ensure our staff keep coming back?

    Since the staff revolution of summer 2021, most camps have put more focus on the staff experience than ever before. If we’re being honest SOME focus, as opposed to hardly any, as most of us realize that we’ve been taking our workforce for granted. So, less stress, less burden, less responsibilities, with more pay, more support, more attention - AND STILL
 It often doesn’t feel like enough.

    Gen Z Justin and Millenial Jack join us today to reframe the staff experience things from their perspective, and help us better understand what’s needed in 2024 at our camps. THIS, is the Day Camp Pod!

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    Do you read the show notes? Let us know - click the following link to receive 10% off a lifetime subscription of Go Camp Pro's 5-Minute Fridays. (psst. Even if you don't buy anything, clicking this link will still help!)
    (click here - https://bit.ly/pod-notes-discount)

    Review us on iTunes!

    If you love the Day Camp Pod, we would be grateful if you subscribed and left us a review. It’s SUPER easy, too! Just head to http://ratethispodcast.com/dcp

    -

    YOUR HOSTS:

    Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictWith,Justin Pritikin, Director of Staff - Everwood Day CampJack Schott, Co-Founder - The Summer Camp Society


    Sponsors:

    Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible:

    Camptivities - https://www.camptivities.com/Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) - https://crs4rec.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, Camp Pro!

  • Send us a text

    Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/crisis-management

    When it comes to crisis, prepare and prevent, don’t repair and repent.

    With all the crazy stuff going on in our country and the world, camp directors often have to become crisis managers.

    One of our friends, Dave Thoenson from Tamarack Day Camp outside of Chicago, joins us to debrief his experience from the Highland Park parade shooting in the Summer of 2022.

    We also welcome Joel Bennett who was at the parade with his family and saw the situation from the perspective as a camp parent and an ACA accreditation visitor. This, is the Day Camp Pod!

    This podcast discusses the incident and fallout of a mass shooting, which was unsettling to the hosts and guests and will likely be so to the listeners. This is an important topic, so we encourage you to listen and to be prepared for what’s to be discussed.

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    Do you read the show notes? Let us know - click the following link to receive 10% off a lifetime subscription of Go Camp Pro's 5-Minute Fridays. (psst. Even if you don't buy anything, clicking this link will still help!)
    (click here - https://bit.ly/pod-notes-discount)

    Review us on iTunes!

    If you love the Day Camp Pod, we would be grateful if you subscribed and left us a review. It’s SUPER easy, too! Just head to http://ratethispodcast.com/dcp

    -

    YOUR HOSTS:

    Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictWith,Dave Thoensen, Camp Owner/Director - Tamarak Day CampJoel Bennett, Owner - Joel Bennett Consulting


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    Sponsors:

    Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible:

    Camptivities - https://www.camptivities.com/Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) - https://crs4rec.com/CRS - Emergency Alert System: https://crs4rec.com/product/emergency-alert-systems/ 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!

  • Send us a text

    Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/summer-2023-debrief

    What lessons can we learn from summer 2023?

    Summer 2023 is in the books, and we not only survived, but we thrived - very much like it’s 2019 again


    Our super-thoughtful friend from the West Coast, Kelly Jones, joins us to talk about last summer, and we’ll try hard not to just talk about staff stuff, but that seems to be what people want to hear
 THIS, is the Day Camp Pod.

    -
    Do you read the show notes? Let us know - click the following link to receive 10% off a lifetime subscription of Go Camp Pro's 5-Minute Fridays. (psst. Even if you don't buy anything, clicking this link will still help!)
    (click here - https://bit.ly/pod-notes-discount)

    Review us on iTunes!

    If you love the Day Camp Pod, we would be grateful if you subscribed and left us a review. It’s SUPER easy, too! Just head to http://ratethispodcast.com/dcp

    -

    YOUR HOSTS:

    Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampSam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park DistrictWith,Kelly Jones - Executive Director and Day Camp Director - Outpost Summer Camps


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    Sponsors:

    Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible:

    Camptivities - https://www.camptivities.com/Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) - https://crs4rec.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, Camp Pro!

  • Send us a text

    Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/day-camp-pod/remembering-doug-pierce

    “Whoever needed help, Doug was there with his sleeves rolled up.” - Jay Jacobs

    Doug Pierce was a larger than life camp director and industry leader who set the standard for Day Camping, ACA volunteerism, positivity, and sharing. Doug passed away last April, to the shock of his friends and colleagues - as his omnipresent personality made him seem immortal.

    Now that we’ve had a few months to gather our thoughts, I wanted to have one of his friends and contemporaries - Jay Jacobs, come onto the pod and talk about one of the greatest guys that we ever will know, and a true day camp legend, Doug Pierce - THIS is the day camp pod!

    -

    Do you read the show notes? Let us know - click the following link to receive 10% off a lifetime subscription of Go Camp Pro's 5-Minute Fridays. (psst. Even if you don't buy anything, clicking this link will still help!)
    (click here - https://bit.ly/pod-notes-discount)

    Review us on iTunes!

    If you love the Day Camp Pod, we would be grateful if you subscribed and left us a review. It’s SUPER easy, too! Just head to http://ratethispodcast.com/dcp

    -

    YOUR HOSTS:

    Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day CampWith, Jay Jacobs, Owner/Partner/Director - TLC Family of Camps


    More about Jay:

    Jay arrived at Timber Lake in 1967 as a camper, and worked his way up from counselor to head counselor before becoming owner/director in 1980. Highly regarded in the camp industry for his innovative ideas, he was appointed by the Governor to serve on the NY State Camp Health and Safety Council. Jay has served as President of the NY Section of the American Camp Association, Past President of NY State Camp Directors’ Association, and is the founder of SCOPE – Summer Camp Opportunities Promote Education, a program which provides camping experiences for inner city kids at a host of not-for-profit camps. In 2001, Jay founded and currently served as chair of Heal the Children, a program of the American Camp Association that provides free camperships to the children of victims of the 9/11 tragedy. He is the owner/partner of Tyler Hill Camp, North Shore Day Camp, and Hampton Day Camp. His first love, however, is the time he spends every summer with his campers. Contact: [email protected]

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    Sponsors:

    Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible:

    Camptivities - https://www.camptivities.com/Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) - https://crs4rec.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, Camp Pro!