Pack Rat Chat

In this episode, Brooke shares some helpful advice about preparing for camp. From sending and writing mail to our weekly reports to packing and more, Brooke's perspective comes from both as a mom of three campers and, of course, as a camp director. She also touches on what you can do to prepare your camper so that they aren't homesick. To set your camper up for success this summer, you won't want to miss this brand-new episode!

In this special episode, Brooke chats with co-director and brother, Jeff Cheley. Recorded prior to the Cameron Peak Fire, Jeff and Brooke reflect on how they have navigated – and managed – this unprecedented year, including the Covid-19 pandemic and what would have been Cheley’s 100th summer. Jeff shares his experience growing up at camp bearing the Cheley last name and what brought him back to work at camp in the first place. He also looks forward to next summer and ponders what his legacy might be, both as a camp director and a father. An honest and reflective conversation between siblings and coworkers, this is part of a special series of episodes of the Pack Rat Chat in conversation with Brooke and Jeff.

In this episode, Brooke chats with Benji Harris: former camper, CILT, and staff member, and, now, performer, songwriter, public speaker, and educator. Navigating the music industry during the COVID-19 pandemic, Benji shares how his unique job pivoted to virtual songwriting. Looking back at his time touring, he also shares the feeling he gets on stage and what it was like being on the road. Benji reminisces on why he started playing the guitar, how he ended up back on staff, and hints at a special surprise planned for the Centennial Celebration in 2021. Finally, Benji and Brooke relate their experiences raising their daughters with Benji explaining why he loves being “a girl dad.”

In this episode, Brooke chats with Angela Boatright: former staff member (counselor, Senior Chipeta director, & Girls’ Camp Director) and, now, Asst. Principal at Arapahoe High School. Navigating a new system of education, Angela shares the commitment she’s made to her students and how her school is addressing and supporting the mental health of their students. She relates her time at camp –  the lessons learned during times of uncertainty – and how she hopes her students can learn a new sense of resiliency: how to digest disappointment, recognize grief, and reflect on change. With her cup full, Angela describes the value she places on her many meaningful relationships.

In this episode, Brooke chats with Judson Laipply: YouTube sensation, known for his viral video "Evolution of Dance" and a former Ski Hi Campfire Counselor. Laipply's upload secured his place in history with record-breaking views and likes, posted only a year after YouTube launched. In a timely and humble conversation about virality, fame, finding inspiration, and what's next, Judson shares what brought him to be a counselor at Cheley and his favorite camp memory. Judson also reflects on how his dance – and the message he hopes it sends – has evolved and continues to be relevant in the age of TikTok and the unprecedented health crisis. To viral hopefuls thinking, "I want to do that," or those struggling during this difficult time, Judson gives his advice.

In this episode, Brooke chats with Diana Kapp: alumni, camp parent, and author of “Girls Who Run the World: 31 CEOs Who Mean Business.” In a beautifully candid conversation about women in leadership, gender roles, and the experiences of young women today, Diana shares the stories heard and lessons learned while writing her book. Inspired by the creativity and moxie of the 31 featured women who define grit, determination, and hard work, Diana reflects on how Cheley provides an opportunity to build leaders and gives young women the tools they need to succeed.

In this episode, Brooke chats with her dad and Director Emeritus, Don Cheley. Named “the Preserver” in the Centennial Book, Don shares what it was like growing up at camp, with his mom, Sis, and more. He also looks back at his contributions to camp and some of the changes he’s seen over his years, which bring up many emotions.

In this episode, we chat with Tom Hornbein: mountaineer who pioneered the route up Everest’s West Ridge, acclaimed anesthesiologist, and former Cheley camper. Tom shares how a young boy from St. Louis ended up in the Rockies, how camp influenced him to then climb Everest, why he may have gotten in a little trouble as a camper, and more. For more from Tom, read his book “Everest: The West Ridge.”

In this episode, we chat to Barry Sweet: Wilderness Office Manager at Rocky Mountain National Park and a dear friend who has been monumental in our 100-Year Partnership with RMNP. Barry shares why he has new flowers on his desk every morning, how he turns everything into a party, what he’s most proud of, his secret, and more. For more from Barry, visit www.wisdompool.org.

In this episode, we chat to Jena Lee Nardella: author of "One Thousand Wells: How an Audacious Goal Taught Me To Love The World Instead of Save It", Executive Director of the nonprofit organization Blood:Water, and featured story in the Centennial book. Now a mentor to many, little did she know at eleven-years-old that when she first arrived at Cheley her time here would prepare her to deal with uncomfortable situations and push her beyond her comfort zone.

In this episode, we listen to Brooke's inaugural Chapel talk. In it, she asks "what is your goal for this summer?" and shares a saying that's stuck with her for years: "sometimes the fear won't go away, so you'll have to do it afraid." 

In this episode, Brooke discusses forms, forms, forms, and other tidbits for leading a successful summer.