The Pudding

The sweet proof of research to back up what you already know about summer camp. Join Travis Allison and Dr. Mandi Baker as they focus in on prominent and emerging research in the summer camp world and share the ways that camp professionals can leverage that research to get more kids to camp.

The Pudding is part of the Go Camp Pro podcast network. Find a Podcast for Camp Pros of every age and stage at https://gocamp.pro/podcasts

All Episodes

The Pudding

Camp as a Sacred Playground: Research in Faith-Based Camps - with Dr. Jake Sorenson - The Pudding #17

April 02, 2025 • The Pudding - from Go Camp Pro • Episode 17

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/the-pudding/camp-as-a-sacred-playground

Creating Safe Spaces to Explore Faith & Identity

In this episode of The Pudding, hosts Dr. Mandi Baker and Travis Allison speak with Jake Sorenson, founder and director of Sacred Playgrounds, to explore the impacts of Christian summer camps. Jake, a seasoned expert with over 20 years of experience, explains how Sacred Playgrounds uses data to tell compelling stories and improve camp and youth ministries. The conversation delves into the five fundamental characteristics of effective Christian faith-based camps: being unplugged from home; participatory; relational; a safe space; and faith-centred. For camps that are not faith-based, what is that alternative fifth pillar of effectiveness? Jake discusses the importance of creating environments where campers feel safe to explore big questions about faith and identity. Jake, also, emphasizes the need for continuous improvement in camp practices.

Episode Guide

00:41 Meet the Hosts and Jake’s Sacred Playgrounds
02:52 The Concept of Ministry in Camps
06:42 Jake's Personal Journey and Research Focus
09:39 Key Characteristics of Christian Summer Camps
16:16 Fostering Intentional Camp Experiences & Reimagining Camp Traditions
26:16 Creating Safe Spaces in Faith-Based Camps
30:50 The Power and Vulnerability of Camp Leadership
38:45 Metrics of Success in Camping
45:19 Recommended Researchers to Follow & Episode Wrap-up

Your Hosts

Dr. Mandi Baker, Researcher - Summer Camp, Outdoor Recreation, Sociology and Hospitality/Tourism - getlamped@gmail.com
Travis Allison, Summer Camp Consultant - Go Camp Pro - travis@gocamp.pro
Dr. Jake Sorenson, Founder, Sacred Playgrounds - jake@sacredplaygrounds.com

Thanks to our sponsors!

The American Camp Association - Illinois

The American Camp Association of Illinois is made up of nearly 289,000 members, volunteers, campers, families, and professionals who believe in the power of camp. We work to disrupt the effects of poverty by providing fundamental services for children and families, and learning opportunities for camp professionals. Learn more about ACA Illinois by visiting acail.org.

Camptivities

You know the impact you want camp to make in a child’s life. But figuring out the day-to-day details can be overwhelming. Let Camptivities help you make that impact by streamlining the creation of your camp activity schedules. Schedule a demo at camptivities.com.