In the second installment of their discussion on specialty camp ideas, Curt and Chris share an array of unique camp themes, drawing from both their personal experiences and broader trends. They delve into a variety of specialized camp options, including cooking, survival, archery, scuba diving, music production, detective camp, and fitness camps, among others. This episode offers insights and inspiration for camp directors and planners looking to diversify their offerings and attract new campers with specialized interests. Links: Archery Games ..read more

In part one, Curt and Chris delve into the world of specialty camps and their significance in offering targeted experiences beyond traditional camping. They discuss the evolution and variety of specialty camps, from music and equestrian camps to coding, robotics, and even escape room camps, highlighting the unique opportunities these provide for children with specific interests. The guys share insights into the operational aspects, including staffing, community involvement, and the challenges of attracting enrollment. They emphasize specialty camps as a means to engage kids who might not be in ..read more

It’s pretty much a given that there will be at least a little burnout happening at your camp. The guys give some great ideas on how to beat that and keep your staff happy, healthy, and having a great season! These ideas are super easy to implement right now into your summer with very little preparation!  ..read more

Chris and Curt welcome Whitney Mueller from Academic Entertainment, who shares her journey with the company from its humble beginnings to becoming a leading provider of entertainers for camps and schools. The episode covers the variety of programs offered, ensuring no camp ever has to endure the horror of a boring guest again. Whitney highlights the importance of high-quality, professional entertainers who can captivate both campers and staff. From tales of a basketball-dribbling ex-Globetrotter to discussions about the magic of virtual programming that doesn't put anyone to sleep, the talk ex ..read more

After a long summer, we are back. Chris and his family have moved to Indiana and are at a new camp. Curt has been on an RV trip around the U.S. for six months. Both guys are exhausted but excited to return to the podcast ..read more

In this episode, Curt tells a few stories from his time at camp and a few from other camp professionals. Some are heartwarming and others are amusing ..read more

This week, the guys talk about Traditions and Ceremonies. Do you have any at your camp? Do you need some ideas for some new ones? Listen in this week for multiple ideas, some good, some bad! Curt and Chris give a huge list of traditions that they have either been a part of or heard about from other camps ..read more

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

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

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