CampWire

This episode is for everyone who wants expert techniques in staff training and making the camp mission really happen, including: scheduling training with good time management, creating a staff team committed to mission from the first minutes, and much more. We welcome back the incredible educator, staff trainer, and author Michael Brandwein for an exclusive peek at the content of the in-person, small group, learn-by-doing professional development event held in Chicago January 12-14, 2026, near Chicago O'Hare International Airport, and from his latest bestselling book, The Intentional Camp: Putting More Muscle in the Mission of Character & Youth Development. This event is sponsored by ACA Illinois and open to everyone, everywhere (ACA membership not required). The tools in this episode are simple to use and powerful in effect.   Show notes: ACA, Illinois 2026 Women in Camp Summit Global Camps Africa For information on Michael's upcoming in-person, small group interactive professional development event sponsored by ACA Illinois (open to everyone, everywhere, ACA membership not required), “The Brandwein Skill-A-Thon on Training & Leading Your Best Camp Team Ever” held in Chicago (near O'Hare) on January 12-14, 2026, please go to www.acail.org/michaelbrandwein. For Michael's annual online one day virtual training for camp Leadership Team members, “Super Staff SuperVision: The Quick Course on Outstanding Skills to Coach, Motivate, & Bring Out the Best in Staff,” please go to www.acail.org/michaelbrandwein sponsored by ACA Illinois (open to everyone, everywhere, ACA membership not required). Books by Michael Brandwein are available at www.michaelbrandwein.com/store. To contact Michael with questions, and for more information about contacting him to work with you on your character development projects or for staff or Leadership Team training, you can reach him at 847-940-9820 and at mail@michaelbrandwein.com. Michael has free resources on his website: www.michaelbrandwein.com/freeresources. The views and opinions expressed on CampWire by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the American Camp Association or ACA employees.

In this episode, we're joined by renowned educator and speaker Michael Brandwein for a preview of his keynote and breakout sessions at the upcoming ACA, Southeastern Fall Camp Conference. Michael shares insights from his presentation, The Intentional Camp: Keeping Character as the Key, and from his latest bestselling book, The Intentional Camp: Putting More Muscle in the Mission of Character & Youth Development, exploring how intentionality in leadership, programming, and staff development can shape campers' character and create lasting impact. Whether you're a camp director, counselor, or year-round professional, this episode will inspire you to bring more purpose and meaning into every part of camp life.   Show notes: Join us for the ACA, Southeastern Fall Camp Conference! For information on Michael's upcoming in-person, small group interactive professional development event sponsored by ACA Illinois (open to everyone, everywhere, ACA membership not required), “The Brandwein Skill-A-Thon on Training & Leading Your Best Camp Team Ever” held in Chicago (near O'Hare) on January 12-14, 2026, please go to www.acail.org/michaelbrandwein. For Michael's annual online one day virtual training for camp Leadership Team members, “Super Staff SuperVision: The Quick Course on Outstanding Skills to Coach, Motivate, & Bring Out the Best in Staff,” please go to www.acail.org/michaelbrandwein sponsored by ACA Illinois (open to everyone, everywhere, ACA membership not required). Books by Michael Brandwein are available at www.michaelbrandwein.com/store. To contact Michael with questions, and for more information about contacting him to work with you on your character development projects or for staff or Leadership Team training, you can reach him at 847-940-9820 and at mail@michaelbrandwein.com. Michael has free resources on his website: www.michaelbrandwein.com/freeresources. The views and opinions expressed on CampWire by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the American Camp Association or ACA employees.

In this episode, we're joined by Amy Brady, founder of The Flourish Lab and keynote speaker at ACA's upcoming Rocky Mountain Fall Conference. Amy's work centers on supporting adults who work with kids and youth—helping them build connection, belonging, and understanding in their communities. Together, we explore what it means to flourish as humans—both for staff and the campers they serve. Amy shares insights into navigating challenging behaviors, fostering meaningful relationships, and creating spaces where everyone feels seen and supported. Tune in for a preview of Amy's keynote and a thoughtful reminder that, at the end of the day, we're all human—and we all need connection to thrive.   Show notes: Rocky Mountain Fall Conference The Flourish Lab The Nature Place The views and opinions expressed on CampWire by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the American Camp Association or ACA employees.

The culture at your camp isn't an accident - it's something you create every day. In this episode, we chat with leadership consultant and keynote speaker Dan Durbin about his session, "Culture Happens Either Way." Tune in for a sneak peak of what to expect from the Staffing Summit and inspiration to build a stronger, more aligned camp team.   Show notes: ACA Staffing Summit Durbin Leadership 6 Types of Working Genius The views and opinions expressed on CampWire by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the American Camp Association or ACA employees.  

In this episode, we are joined once again by Bob Ditter, alongside ACA's own Alicia Danenberg and Laurie Pearson to discuss character work at camp.  Tune in as they explore how camps can affirm and expand the character-building work they're already doing. They discuss what “character” really means in a camp context, how to define and live out your camp's values as staff, and ways to create an environment where kids and staff alike feel a deep sense of belonging and growth. Whether you're a camp director, program leader, or staff trainer, this conversation will leave you inspired and equipped to make your camp community even stronger. Show notes: Character Conversations with Bob Ditter Character at Camp Initiative ACA Bookstore The views and opinions expressed on CampWire by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the American Camp Association or ACA employees.

The ACA Southwest Fall Campference is just around the corner! Tune in for a conversation with this year's “Playnote” speaker, Tobin Paap, and get a sneak peek at what's in store. Whether you're looking to recharge after summer or gear up for the year ahead, this episode will inspire you with fresh energy, real connection, and a reimagined way to gather. Show notes: ACA, Southwest Fall Campference RelationAll The views and opinions expressed on CampWire by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the American Camp Association or ACA employees.

It's a camp! It's a conference! It's a Campference! On this episode, we're joined by Sterling Nell Leija and Kendra Perkins from Innovative Camp Company to learn all about the upcoming ACA, Northern California Campference.  Tune in for a taste of what you can expect, some fun and heartfelt camp stories, and - did we mention this event is in Napa?  We hope to see you there Oct. 14-16. Show notes: Learn more and register for the Campference Innovative Camp Company The views and opinions expressed on CampWire by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the American Camp Association or ACA employees.  

How do camps create environments where character thrives? In this episode of CampWire, Bob Ditter and Dave Brown dive into actionable strategies that camps can use to foster character development in both staff and participants. From cultivating leadership and resilience to promoting empathy and teamwork, this conversation provides practical insights and real-world examples to help camps strengthen their communities and empower every individual. Special thanks to our sponsor, DKMS. Show notes: Character at Camp Initiative ACA Bookstore Fence Post Learning Character Conversations with Bob Ditter The views and opinions expressed on CampWire by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the American Camp Association or ACA employees.

In this special episode, we're joined by Scott Ehlers, Chief Kindness Strategist at Kindness Is Free—a nonprofit initiative launched by the Boys & Girls Club of West San Gabriel Valley & Eastside. We explore how small acts of kindness can spark big change, especially in camp and youth-serving communities, and how Kindness Is Free is helping young people become ambassadors of compassion and inclusion. Scott shares the story behind the organization, its mission, and how it connects with Camp Kindness Day on July 16. We also talk about the Kindness Pledge—a simple but powerful commitment you can make right now to help build a more caring world. Show notes: Kindness Is Free Instagram Take the Kindness Pledge! Email Scott Camp Kindness Day The views and opinions expressed on CampWire by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the American Camp Association or ACA employees.

In this episode of CampWire, we talk with Christen Peterson, ACA's director of inclusion and belonging, about Ms. Opal Lee—known as the Grandmother of Juneteenth—and her inspiring movement, Opal's Walk for Freedom. Learn how camps can honor her legacy, engage their communities, and take steps toward a more inclusive future. Join us as we explore how a single walk became a national movement—and how your camp can be part of it. Show notes: Juneteenth Camp Celebrations Opal's Walk for Freedom The views and opinions expressed on CampWire by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the American Camp Association or ACA employees.

In this episode, we're joined by Kendra Perkins and her beloved therapy dog, Harbor, to explore the heartwarming impact of therapy animals at summer camp. Kendra shares how Harbor supports campers through moments of anxiety, homesickness, and emotional challenges—while also bringing smiles, connection, and calm to the entire camp community. Discover how therapy dogs like Harbor are helping create more inclusive, supportive, and emotionally resilient camp environments. Special thanks to our sponsor, UltraCamp. Show notes: Contact Kendra Camp SAY Alliance of Therapy Dogs AKC Recognized Therapy Dog Organizations Innovative Camp Company The views and opinions expressed on CampWire by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the American Camp Association or ACA employees.

In honor of Women's History Month, we're diving into the impact and evolution of women in the summer camp industry! Join us as we chat with Colette Marquardt, CEO of the American Camp Association, Illinois, and founder of the Women in Camp Summit. Colette shares how the summit grew into a thriving community with an annual conference, pop-up events, and year-round support for women in camp. Special thanks to our sponsors: UltraCamp Percussion Play Show notes: ACA, Illinois Women in Camp Women in Camp Summit The views and opinions expressed on CampWire by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the American Camp Association or ACA employees.

Looking to take your camp career to the next level? In this episode, we're joined by Erec Hillis, owner and Executive Director of Camp Champions in Marble Falls, TX. Erec is speaking at the upcoming Tri-State CAMP Conference and sharing insights on the new Camp Career Accelerator program — designed to help camp professionals grow their skills and chart a path for long-term success in the camp industry. We explore what it means to be an indispensable part of your camp community, with practical tips on leadership, adding value to your team, and advancing your camp career. Show notes: Camp Career Accelerator Tri-State CAMP Conference Camp Champions The views and opinions expressed on CampWire by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the American Camp Association or ACA employees.

It's time for the 2025 ACA National Conference! Tune in for a conversation with John Beitner, ACA's senior director of programs, to learn all about this year's conference.   Special thanks to our sponsor, UltraCamp.   Learn more about the 2025 ACA National Conference.   The views and opinions expressed on CampWire by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the American Camp Association or ACA employees.

In this episode, we sit down with Alli Faricy of Camp Foley to dive into the tremendous success of their recent Camp Moves Me campaign. Alli shares the story behind the campaign, the innovative strategies that led to its success, and the impact it's had on the camp community. Don't miss this conversation about fostering community, creativity, and growth through fundraising! Show notes: Camp Foley Camp Foley's Camp Moves Me Email Alli! Rally Up

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Tim Raines to explore the transformative impact of culturally responsive practices in youth development. Dr. Tim shares his insights on why understanding and embracing diverse cultural perspectives is essential for fostering growth and belonging in young people. Special thanks to our sponsor, UltraCamp! Show notes: Dr. Tim's website Camping Magazine article: Planting Seeds of Inclusion: Practical Strategies for Inclusive Mentoring in Camps Webinar: Partnerships to Increase Equity and Inclusivity The views and opinions expressed on CampWire by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the American Camp Association or ACA employees.

Camp is meant to be a safe environment - physically, mentally, and emotionally. So, how do we hold space for our campers and staff who may be dealing with trauma? On this episode, John Hamilton from the Alliance for Camp Health joins us to discuss cultural trauma and creating safe, supportive, and connected spaces at camp and beyond. Special thanks to our sponsor, UltraCamp! Show notes: Article, Holding Space for the Splash Zone: Dealing with Cultural Trauma Alliance for Camp Health CampWell   The views and opinions expressed on CampWire by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the American Camp Association or ACA employees.

Join us for October 28-30 for the 2024 Staffing Summit! In this conversation, we hear from keynote speaker Jill Lyons about her camp experience and its role in her journey into the corporate world. Click here to register for the Staffing Summit! Special thanks to our 2024 Staffing Summit sponsors: UltraCamp CampHire Chaco Redwoods Group Odyssey International Camp   The views and opinions expressed on CampWire by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the American Camp Association or ACA employees.

Join us for October 28-30 for the 2024 Staffing Summit! In this conversation, we hear from keynote speaker Dr. Patrice Buckner Jackson about her background as an educator, coach, speaker, author, and more! Dr. PBJ's sessions will offer insights and tips on disrupting burnout.  Click here to register for the Staffing Summit! Show notes: Dr. PBJ's website and podcast Disrupting Burnout: The Professional Woman's Lifeline to Finding Purpose Special thanks to our 2024 Staffing Summit sponsors: UltraCamp CampHire Chaco Redwoods Group Odyssey International Camp   The views and opinions expressed on CampWire by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the American Camp Association or ACA employees.

Join us for October 28-30 for the 2024 Staffing Summit! In this conversation, we hear from closing keynote speaker Leah Mesches about her background, connecting the camping industry to the corporate world, and what we can expect from her session at this year's Summit. Click here to register for the Staffing Summit! Blog post: Can I Really Spend Another Summer Working at Camp? Special thanks to our 2024 Staffing Summit sponsors: UltraCamp CampHire Chaco Redwoods Group Odyssey International Camp   The views and opinions expressed on CampWire by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the American Camp Association or ACA employees.

Join us for this year's Staffing Summit! In this episode, we chat with event co-chairs Kim Aycock and Dave Schiff to learn all about this year's Summit, including new features, speaker details, special events, and more! Event dates: October 28-30, 2024 Registration fee includes access to recorded sessions for 30 days following the conference.  Find more here! Special thanks to our 2024 Staffing Summit sponsors: UltraCamp CampHire Chaco Redwoods Group Odyssey International Camp

On this episode of CampWire, HK Gilbert joins us from Camp Fire National Headquarters to discuss gender affirming practices at camp. Tune in for a conversation on creating a sense of belonging for all campers and what that looks like on a practical level. Special thanks to our sponsor: UltraCamp Show notes: Creating Camp Magic: Gender-Affirming Practices to Welcome All Youth, blog post Camp Fire

Summer camp teaches us about friendship, the importance of play, and the power of being present. This summer's new movie, Summer Camp, reminds us of all this and more. Join us for a fun conversation with the film's director, Castille Landon, as we go behind the scenes to learn about the making of the movie, the joys of being at summer camp, and lessons learned along the way. Check out Summer Camp in theaters now! Special thanks to our sponsor: UltraCamp Show notes: Summer Camp trailer Summer Camp official website

On this special episode of CampWire, Scott Brody, Owner and Director of Camps Kenwood & Evergreen, sits down with remarkable thought leaders and economists Elliot Haspel and Dr. Kathryn Anne Edwards. Tune in for a rich conversation on the summer camp economy, school-aged summer care for K-12 students, and what the world of childcare looks like in the summer space. Show notes: Dr. Kathryn Anne Edwards Elliot Haspel Camps Kenwood & Evergreen  

The 2024 solar eclipse is upon us! Tune in for a fascinating conversation with Dr. Laura Peticolas, principle investigator and project lead for the Eclipse Megamovie 2024, to learn about the eclipse, how she and her team are rethinking science education, and the impact of connection.  Special thanks to our sponsor: UltraCamp Show notes: Eclipse Megamovie 2024 EdEon - Sonoma State University SunSketcher Eclipse Megamovie 2017   Where Do Solar Jets Go? Eclipse Megamovie 2024   Eclipse Megamovie 2024 (EM2024) is funded by NASA to discover the secret lives of solar jets and plumes. Many jets and plumes seem to disappear or change from the time they are formed on the Sun and when they move out into the solar wind. To learn more about these solar phenomena, we will use photographs taken by volunteers to identify solar jets as they leave the Sun's surface and solar plumes as they grow and develop. We aim for our research efforts to provide some clues or answers to this question.   What is a solar jet? A solar jet, or solar spicule, is a transient, jet-like feature in the Sun's atmosphere. They are narrow streams of plasma that erupt from the solar surface, reaching high speeds and extending thousands of kilometers into the corona. Solar jets are relatively small and short-lived, lasting only a few minutes. They are thought to be caused by magnetic reconnection, a process where intersecting magnetic field lines rearrange and release energy. These jets are important for understanding solar phenomena, as they contribute to heating the solar corona and accelerating the solar wind. They are also significant in the study of space weather, which can impact satellite and communication systems on Earth. Solar jets are typically observed using space-based solar observatories.   Why don't we know as much about solar jets and plasma plumes as we do everything else about the sun? Solar Jets and Plasma Plumes have been “hidden” behind necessary instrumentation discs on satellites used by NASA. The discs are used to protect “white-light” cameras onboard a satellite from the bright solar photosphere. These cameras are used to study the outer solar corona in the visible wavelengths. The inner corona is thus blocked, making it hard to study the evolution and motions of these plasma jets and plumes. Jets and plumes can be observed leaving the solar photosphere but then NASA has only had limited ability to track their motion off the Sun into the solar wind. Satellite cameras, like those on SOHO satellite, can pick up any jets that make it out to their field of view. But the jets that don't make it that far cannot be studied. Ground-based solar telescopes can study these features by looking at their green emissions, which can get past the atmosphere. Other visible colors emitted from the scattered photospheric light off these features are blocked by the atmosphere, but are important for understanding the plasma jet and plumes' densities and perhaps their evolution.   Using the citizen science python competition platform Kaggle Community Competitions with volunteer photographers interested in coding and/or data analysts who want to explore and characterize solar transient plasma flows and jets, we will lead an image processing competition using Eclipse Megamovie python codes created in the past 5 years together with emergent AI systems, processed EM2024 images in FITS files, and NASA SDO/ AIA and SOHO/LASCO data.   Thanks to improved calibration, equipment, training, and software processes, we will improve on the 2017 movie (solar min) and compare it to the 2024 movie (solar max). It is anticipated that returning volunteers will produce especially good data given the experience and learning they will build on from participating in Eclipse Megamovie 2017.   In the remaining year and a half of the grant, we propose to publish journal articles on solar discoveries such as velocities of transient plasma flows and jets. The proposed effort tackles fundamental issues related to flare energy transfer in the low solar atmosphere. The results of this investigation will provide important information about the generation, energetics and dynamics of solar flares, jets and flows and coronal mass ejections, providing crucial understanding of the initiation of space weather events. Expected Scientific Discoveries The Eclipse Megamovie Project aims to add a new dimension to our existing studies of the Sun's faint atmosphere, the inner corona. By stitching together thousands of images taken along the path of the 2017 total solar eclipse, we have already created a unique treasure-trove of information on how the corona changes over time. Radio-wave studies have allowed us to closely observe very rapid variations of the corona, but now we expect to study such processes directly using visible light and thus enrich our knowledge of the Sun's dynamic atmosphere considerably. The data gathered via the Eclipse Megamovie Project will be made available publicly and are expected to allow scientists to analyze the Sun's corona for many years to come. This will show how the Sun changes over a few hours, but also how it's different after a period of seven years. The high-resolution processed images may also be shared with fellow solar eclipse researchers to incorporate into their own endeavors if desired, such as the work published by Pasachoff and Rušin in 2022 to understand the evolution of magnetic fields.   About our volunteers   Including the volunteers who will participate after the eclipse by helping to analyze the images of the eclipse taken by photographers in the field and the volunteers who are planning on photographing the eclipse and uploading their photographs (without any training or otherwise collaboration with us) we have over 500 volunteers. From these volunteers, we expect over 10,000 images of the Sun's corona. Our volunteers have many different ways of participating, and here are the three primary ways they will participate:   Photographing the eclipse with an equatorial (tracking) mount while following our requested exposures. In other words, these volunteers are setting their cameras up for our images specifically, including very specific settings for things like aperture (or the size of the opening that allows light through to the camera sensor) and  ISO (how dark or light a photograph will be). The use of a tracking mount enables our volunteers to keep the sun fully centered in their photographs, ensuring a photograph that can be used to examine the sun's corona for science. These volunteers will also take calibration frames in the form of flats, darks, and bias frames. These frames will allow us to know, without a shadow of a doubt, that what we see in the photograph is actually something seen from the sun, and not an “artifact,” or spec of dust on the lens or something else from the camera itself. This confidence in the image is critical for doing science with these kinds of photographs. We call these participants our STAR (Science Team Alpha Recruit) participants. Photographing the eclipse without a tracking mount and according to much simpler standards. We have called this method the “2017 method,” because the settings that we have requested for the photographs match what we requested for the 2017 total solar eclipse. These settings are much less restrictive, and we anticipate the photographs to be beautiful and incredible. These photographs, however, may not be as helpful for the scientific study we will commence. We call these team members our Image analysis via Python and Machine Learning and Kaggle Competition. This is a way to participate in the Eclipse Megamovie 2024 project without taking any photographs or needing to be in the path of totality. This is also the only form of participation that is available after the eclipse takes place. Our Python/ML volunteers will take the photographs that volunteers on April 8th took and use Machine Learning to align them. This is a trickier endeavor than it sounds, because the photographs will be taken from all over the path of totality. In order to properly align them, we need a lot of data from the photographer themselves, including calibration frames discussed above.   The EM2024 Discord server will be active and supported by EM2024 staff long after the eclipse itself takes place. This will also likely be a wonderful place to see our volunteers share the photographs they took on April 8th. This is also going to be the best way for volunteers to communicate with each other on April 8th as they make final decisions (based on the weather) about where they will set up to photograph the eclipse.   As of April 4th, 2024 we have 200 "STAR" volunteers, but we are calling them science participants. We have 358 MegaVolunteers, or MegaParticipants. And yes, we are looking for more participants. We also have 1,395 people on our general news listserv, many of whom signed up in 2017 but others who simply want to be kept abreast of any news about the project.   Eclipse Megamovie URLs of interest eclipsemegamovie.org (primary website) https://science.nasa.gov/solar-system/skywatching/eclipse-photographers-help-study-sun-during-disappearing-act/ (NASA article about Eclipse Megamovie and two other participatory science efforts) https://svs.gsfc.nasa.gov/14540/ (NASA's Eclipse Megamovie press page) https://youtu.be/8VuhnzPvxZ8 (2017 MegaMovie: v1.1) https://eclipsemegamovie.org/faq (FAQ broken down by participation level) https://sonoma.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eG132P4MWUlV9pc (Link to the survey to fill out if someone wants to volunteer with our project) https://discord.gg/JY6qbVu4uK (Link to join the EM2024 Discord Server. New members must read and agree to the rules and Codes of Conduct to fully join) https://youtu.be/jEEC1ULcDJw (Chasing Totality: Documentary about the 2017 Eclipse Megamovie Project)   Team Member Details Primary Investigator (PI): Dr. Laura Peticolas (Bio) Science PI: Dr. Juan Carlos Martinez Oliveros (Bio) Co-Investigator: Prof. Thomas Targett (Bio) Science Writer and Communications Lead: Hannah Hellman (ORCiD) Technology Specialist: Jeffrey Reedy Software and IT Support: Troy Wilson    

Music has the power to teach, encourage, and inspire us - and if you joined us for the 2024 ACA National Conference in New Orleans, you know this to be true. On this episode of CampWire, we're joined by Mr. Desmian Barnes, Director of Bands for Sophie B. Wright High School, the marching band that graciously and enthusiastically performed at the conference's opening session and warmly welcomed ACA to New Orleans. Join us for a conversation on perseverance, the power of music, being a leader to young minds, and the importance of taking time for yourself - regardless of how busy your schedule is. Show notes: Sophie B. Wright High School Soul Heirs Band

Creating a culture of change can feel risky, and we might not know where to begin. Jonah Berger, Director and National Youth Programs Manager of Camp Footprint, shares how to take courageous steps toward understanding, normalizing vulnerability, and power of shared experiences. This is an inspiring conversation you don't want to miss! Show notes: Camp Footprint About Jonah Berger He Walks Like a Cowboy The Strangest of Places

Join us as we chat with the team behind Camp Dream. Speak. Live. Delaware, a week-long summer camp offered to children and adolescents who stutter in multiple locations around the world. In this episode we discuss the power of camp experiences, shifting the paradigm when it comes to therapeutic approaches, and partnering with colleges and universities to create life-changing programs for children and families. Special thanks to our sponsor: The Redwoods Group Staffing, Safety, Society podcast Show notes: Camp Dream. Speak. Live. Delaware Camp Dream. Speak. Live. and The Blank Center for Stuttering ACA's Camps on Campus

Pranks! Mystery! Storytelling! Oh my! Tune in for a fun conversation with Jeremy Enns, host and creator of the podcast series Summer Camp: The Case of the Phantom Pooper.  Show notes: Listen to Summer Camp: The Case of the Phantom Pooper Summer Camp: The Case of the Phantom Pooper on Instagram The Open Road Podcast TheOpenRoadProject on YouTube

In this episode of the CampWire podcast, we chat with Victoria Povilaitis and Lacey Maglinger of Tim Hortons Foundation Camps about the Quality Improvement in Action Webinar Series. Come learn about what camp program quality looks like in action and how to engage with continuous improvement in this context, and hear about what you can expect from the webinar series! Special thanks to our sponsor: ACTIVE Network Show notes: Quality Improvement in Action Webinar Series Tim Hortons Foundation Camps Tims Camps on Instagram

Get ready for the third annual Staffing Summit! Tune in to learn about this year's event, including major themes, keynote speakers, and session topics. Thanks to Staffing Summit Co-Chairs Kim Aycock and Dave Schiff, as well as keynote speakers Jolly Corley and Dr. Jamye Hardy-Wille, for joining the conversation.   Special thanks to our sponsor, Percussion Play. Show notes: Register for the 2023 ACA Staffing Summit ACA Staffing Summit Promo Video

On this episode of the CampWire podcast, Scott Taylor talks with us about Sum Camp! With an emphasis on teaching mathematical concepts, this month-long day camp in Maine demonstrates the role of camp-school partnerships, the power of camp experiences on academic success and instilling confidence in kids, and the lasting impact of innovative and collaborative program design. Show notes: Sum Camp webpage Sum Camp YouTube channel Scott Taylor profile  

In this special bonus episode of the CampWire podcast, we are joined by Nick Lieberman, one of the directors of the new film Theater Camp! Tune in for a fun conversation about the movie, now in theaters!

In this episode, Candace Doby joins the podcast to talk all things courage. Candace is a speaker, author of A Cool Girl's Guide to Courage, and coach who works with organizations to create a culture of courage where employees perform at their highest potential. Tune in for an incredible conversation on courage, culture, and applying them to your camp for the best summer ever. A special thanks to our sponsor: UltraCamp Show notes: Candace's website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook

Indie rapper, singer, and songwriter Anees joins us on the CampWire podcast to share his inspiring story; the role of summer camp in his life, music, and career; and how everything is summer camp. He recently completed the Summer Camp Tour, and his debut album, Summer Camp, drops on May 19, 2023.    Show notes: Visit Anees's website for social media links, news, latest music, and more

Health and safety of our campers and staff is a top priority, and one that we should never take lightly. As we prepare for the upcoming summer, let's reframe our thinking about abuse prevention. Join us as we chat with Rahel Bayar, of The Bayar Group, to discuss culture shifts around this topic, making space for conversation, and creating safe spaces for all.  Special thanks to our sponsor: ACTIVEWorks Show notes: The Bayar Group Follow Rahel on Instagram @rahel.bayar Follow The Bayar Group on Facebook and LinkedIn

Camps can be powerful community partners in the education of our children. A camp-school partnership can be exciting, innovative, and satisfying, but they also take insight, creativity, and perseverance. In this conversation with Bristol Posatko, ACA's Grants and Special Projects Manager, we explore the many layers of camp-school partnerships, including practical tips and takeaways, resources, and more.  Show notes: 2022-2024 Camp-School Partnership Demonstration Project Camp-School Partnerships: Elevating Your Camp Story for Sustainable Funding (free webinar!) Camp-School Partnerships Guide Contact Bristol to learn more about camp-school partnerships

Camp can happen anywhere! Join us for a conversation with Mikey Latner of Project:Camp to learn about the role of camp in times of crisis, bringing fun and a sense of normalcy after disaster strikes, and the positive, lasting impact that happens when communities come together. Show notes: Project:Camp website Email Mikey  

Let's take a moment to discuss mental, social, and emotional health (MESH). The last few years have taken a toll on the well-being of our campers and staff. As we look to summer 2023, join us for a conversation around strategies and resources to support the well-being and mental health of everyone in our camp communities. Thank you to Alli Faricy of Camp Foley, Dave Brown of Mountain Camp, and Cori Miller of Camp Harlam for sharing thoughts, experiences, and insights on this topic, along with the work created by those involved with the H.E. Butt grant. Serviced through the American Camp Association (ACA), this grant helps develop resources and camper well-being and mental health.   Special thanks to our sponsor: The Redwoods Group Show notes: Alli Faricy, Camp Foley Dave Brown, Mountain Camp Cori Miller, Camp Harlam

What does it mean to "go green"? And how can we implement "green behavior" at our camps? Danny Sudman, Director and Founder of Green Camps, joins us for an inspiring conversation on creating an environmentally-friendly culture at camp, along with empowering - yet practical - ways to make your camp a little greener. Special thanks to our sponsor: PercussionPlay Show Notes: Green Camps Green Camps Facebook Page Green Camp Needs Assessment, Camping Magazine Influencing Green Behavior at Your Camp, Camping Magazine Going Green at Camp, Camping Magazine  

In preparation for Veterans Day, we are honored and excited to chat with Christy Brown and Becca Garrison of the National Military Family Association all about Operation Purple Camps. Tune in to learn about their efforts to provide summer camp experiences for military kids and families, as well as how you and your camp can get involved!  Thank you to our sponsor, ACTIVE Network. Show notes: National Military Family Association Operation Purple Camp Host an Operation Purple Camp Follow ACA @acacamps!

Have you registered for the 2022 ACA Virtual Staffing Summit? It's not too late! Join John Beitner, Kim Aycock, and David Schiff to learn all about this year's three-day event. The 2022 Staffing Summit will feature critical learning, speaker panels, roundtables and engaging sessions.  Click here to learn more and register! Send questions to John Beitner: jbeitner@acacamps.org

Anthony Kane joins the CampWire Podcast to discuss diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging! Click here to read his article in the latest issue of Camping Magazine: Instilling a Sense of Belonging from Day One. Thanks to our sponsors: RegPacks Church Mutual Additional show notes: Send Anthony an email Follow Anthony on Twitter @Tone_1024

Join us for an adventure-filled conversation! Stacey Morgan, wife of NASA astronaut Drew Morgan, is the author of The Astronaut's Wife: How Launching My Husband Into Outer Space Changed the Way I Live on Earth, a true story about making the most of your one incredible life.  Show notes: Order your copy of The Astronaut's Wife book Stacey's website Follow Stacey on Instagram Follow ACA on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and TikTok!    

Are you interested in becoming an ACA volunteer? Do you already serve ACA by sharing your time and talents? Join this in-depth conversation with Michele Branconier, ACA's Senior Director for Volunteerism, to learn all about volunteer opportunities and roles, the benefits of volunteering, and more! Show notes: VICE Article: Volunteerism Is the Best Kept Secret for Mental Health ACA Volunteer Resources

Ju'Riese Colón, CEO of the U.S. Center for SafeSport and a member of the ACA Board of Directors, joins us for a conversation on abuse prevention, education, and accountability within youth programs. Special thanks to our sponsor: ACTIVEWorks Camp & Class Manager Show notes:  U.S. Center for SafeSport National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) Boys & Girls Clubs of America

Brandon Reiter of Skyview CFO & Bookkeeping Services joins us to discuss financial strategies for summer camps. How can you optimize your camp's stream of income? How can you think creatively about revenue sources? How can you use your resources effectively to care for your campus, as well as your staff, campers, and families? Listen for tips, insights, and more! Special thanks to our sponsor: PercussionPlay Show Notes: Skyview CFO & Bookkeeping Services Sky's the Limit: Navigating a Business Launch

Erik Hancock of The Kubala Washatko Architects (TKWA) joins us for a conversation on camp architecture and design, including insights on accessibility and sustainability for campuses and facilities. Special thanks to our sponsor: Regpack Learn more about TKWA: The Kubala Washatko Architects

Singer/songwriter Brett Dennen joins us on the CampWire podcast to share his summer camp experiences; how camp influenced his career, education, and love for the outdoors; and to talk about his latest album, See the World.    Special thanks to our sponsor: Regpack Additional links: Dennen Goods See the World album See the World music video Brett Dennen's website and tour info  

  Special thanks to our sponsor: Trinity/HPSI Thank you to our guests from Sysco Corporation, Nick Kruthaupt and Victoria Gardner.   Nick Kruthaupt currently serves as Vice President, National Sales & Segment Leader - Healthcare/Sr Living & Military for Sysco. Nick began his Sysco career in 1992 as an Account Executive at Sysco Nashville. He advanced to Manager, Healthcare Sales, in 1993 and to Director, Healthcare Sales, in 1994. In 1996, he was appointed Director, Program and Healthcare Sales, and in 1998, he assumed the role of Corporate Regional Vice President, Multi-Unit Healthcare Sales. In 2007, Nick moved to Sysco Corporate and was promoted to Senior Director, Healthcare Sales and Marketing, and in 2008, he took on the role of General Manager, Multi-Unit Healthcare/Hospitality Sales. In 2009, Nick was promoted to Vice President, Healthcare Sales & Marketing, and in 2012, he also assumed responsibility for Military Sales.   Nick is a graduate of the University of Memphis, where he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree. Nick has participated on the Industry Advisory Board for the Association of Healthcare Foodservice (AHF) and the Association for Nutrition + Foodservice Professionals (ANFP). Nick currently sits on the Board of Trustees for ANFP's Nutrition and Foodservice Education Foundation (NFEF).   Victoria Gardner currently serves as Vice President National Accounts, Healthcare/Senior Living for Sysco Corporation. Victoria is a graduate of the University of Houston and has been with Sysco for 18 years.  Throughout her career at Sysco, Victoria has worked both at the local Operating Site level, as an Account Executive, as well as at the corporate level, in various National Account Manager positions.  She has been in her current role for the past 12 years. Prior to joining Sysco, Victoria worked in money management, managing retirement funds for retirees, primarily in the oil and gas sector.  Victoria has previously presided as Chair of the Industry Advisory Council for the Association of Nutrition & Foodservice Professionals. Victoria currently lives in Houston, Texas and works out of Sysco's Global Support Center.

So you're interested in starting a podcast? Tune in for a conversation on podcast fundamentals, including technology, guests, logistics, and more. Lauren McMillin, ACA's public relations and communications manager, talks with Andy Moeschberger and Sam Hirt about their podcast experiences, insights, and helpful tips.   Special thanks to our sponsor: ACTIVENetwork