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.

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/the-pudding/decoding-how-camp-helps-kids-find-themselves

Hearing Youth Voices in Camp Research with Dr. Barry Garst

In this episode of 'The Pudding', hosts Dr. Mandi Baker and Travis Allison delve into the work of Dr. Barry Garst, a Professor at Clemson University in Youth Development Programs. Dr. Garst shares his journey into camp research, discussing his background and various projects that analyze the transformative impact of camp on youth development. The discussion also explores the importance of digital empathy for connecting campers and staff. Dr. Garst also highlights the Journal of Youth Development's role in bridging research and practice in youth development and offers insights on key issues that need more attention in camp studies. 

Episode Guide

• 00:56 Meet Dr. Barry Garst: Youth Development Expert
• 04:02 Exploring the Identity Ladder of Social Learning
• 09:09 Camp’s Impact Long-Term & Emerging Issues in Research
• 16:58 Digital Empathy and the MyView Tool
• 22:21 Data Collection and Analysis Challenges
• 31:57 Researcher Parents’ Perspective on Camper Data Collection
• 45:41 The Journal of Youth Development
• 51:29 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. Barry Garst, Professor & Coordinator - Clemson University - bgarst@clemson.edu

Additional Links of Interest

• Dept of Parks, Recreation and Tourism at Clemson University https://www.clemson.edu/cbshs/departments/prtm/index.html
• Journal of Youth Development https://jyd.pitt.edu/ojs/jyd
• Alliances for Camp Health https://allianceforcamphealth.org/
• American Camps Association- Research Evaluation Advisory Council https://www.acacamps.org/research/help-camp-research/research-evaluation-advisory-committee

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.

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/the-pudding/building-sustainable-camps

Insights into JCamp 180’s Camp Research and Consulting Model

In this episode, Dr. Mandi Baker and Travis Allison talk to Herschel Singer from JCamp 180 about the critical work being done by his organization in supporting Jewish camps across North America, focusing on organizational effectiveness and financial sustainability. Herschel shares his thoughts about the economic landscape of camping, the importance of data-driven yet context-aware decision-making, and the trends observed from their research, particularly regarding costs, revenue, and deferred investments. He offers a refreshing take on the importance of understanding parent dynamics in camping and hints at the broader impact of implementing a data culture among camp professionals.

Episode Guide

• 00:41 Meet the Hosts and Guest 
• 01:08 Herschel Singer's Journey into Research
• 03:27 Overview of JCamp 180
• 05:58 Research Methodologies and Applications
• 09:54 Economic Landscape and Financial Sustainability
• 12:27 Impact of Research on Camps
• 19:43 Trends and Challenges in Camp Staffing
• 21:37 Deferred Investments and Resilience
• 25:43 The Role of Parents in Camping
• 29:52 Conclusion and Contact Information

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
• Herschel Singer, Consultant - JCamp 180 - hsinger@hgf.org

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.

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/the-pudding/a-question-of-value

How do you Define “Camp” and its Economic Impact?

On this episode of The Pudding, Dr. Mandi Baker and Travis Allison dive into the economic impact study of the camp industry with researcher Eli McClain, of the Restorative Economics Group. They talk about his process of working with a team of researchers and students to collect data from over 20,000 camps across the United States, and how this $70 billion dollar industry ripples out into the wider community. Eli also touches on how “camp” is defined for the purposes of this study, and additional questions for future research that came up in the course of writing their report, including the question of how seasonal employment in the camping industry prepares you for full time careers in both camping and other industries.

Resources from this episode:

National Economic Impact Study of the Camp Industry

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Episode Guide

• 00:00 Meet the Hosts and Guest
• 00:36 Eli McClain's Journey into Research
• 08:31 Defining the Camp Industry
• 13:30 From Data Points to Camp Operator Data Collection
• 17:53 Key Findings and Insights from the Economic Impact Study
• 21:15 Future Research Directions with the Magic Wand of Camp Research
• 24:44 Recommended Researchers to Follow & Episode Wrap-up

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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
• Eli McClain - Researcher, Restorative Economics Group

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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.

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/campahead/scenario-planning-101

Exploring Camp Futures: Key Drivers and Scenario Planning

In this episode of Camp Ahead, hosts Joe, Jess, and KJ  expand on the idea of scenario planning as an essential tool for thinking about the future. They discuss key drivers such as climate change, economics, demographics, technological advancements, and social shifts that can shape the next decade of summer camps. Through imaginative scenario planning, they aim to prepare the industry for both positive and challenging futures. Tune in as they explore the potential impacts of AI, climate mitigation, and more on the world of summer camps.

• 01:46 Recap and Introduction to Scenario Planning
• 05:33 Key Drivers for the Future of Camps: Economic and Staff Considerations
• 07:55 Environmental and Technological Impacts on Camps
• 15:09 Social Drivers and Equity in Future Camps
• 20:33 Imagining Positive Futures: Pronoia vs. Paranoia
• 25:36 The Impact of Camp and Nature
• 26:04 Funding and Philanthropy in Camping
• 29:31 The Value of Experiential Learning
• 30:12 Community and Indigenous Relationships

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Episode Links:

• The Book: Imaginable by Jane McGonigal:
  • https://janemcgonigal.com/2021/12/17/imaginable-how-to-see-the-future-coming-and-feel-ready-for-anything-even-things-that-seem-impossible-today/
• https://poe.com/UOScenarioCreator
• https://urgentoptimists.org/

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Our Hosts:

Jess Elfring-Roberts - Executive Director, Episcopal Camps & Conference Centers

Joe Richards - Executive Director, Pearce Williams Summer Camp and Retreat Facility

KJ Williams -  Camp Director, Phantom Lake YMCA Camp

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Sponsors:

A huge thanks to our sponsors for making this possible.

Campify:

Is creating your camp schedule a headache? Does it limit the experience of campers or staff? Campify is software that does the heavy lifting for you - taking care of group, elective, and specialist scheduling based on your custom scheduling rules.

Interested in learning more? Visit campify.io/CampAhead to schedule a demo or create a free trial today.

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/campahead/intro-to-mental-time-travel

Welcome to Camp Ahead: The Futurology of the Summer Camp Industry

In this inaugural episode of the Camp Ahead podcast, Joe Richards, KJ Williams, and Jess Elfring-Roberts dive into the concept of future-proofing the summer camp industry. They discuss the importance of mental time travel, scenario planning, and preparing for larger global issues like climate change, financial instability, demographics, and migration. The hosts share their personal experiences and outline the goals for the podcast, emphasizing the need for proactive thinking to ensure the long-term success of camps. 

This episode sets the stage for exploring how the camp community can adapt and thrive amidst uncertainties.

• 00:58 Meet the Hosts
• 01:51 The Concept of Future Scenarios
• 03:46 Pandemic Reflections
• 06:43 Proactive vs. Reactive Planning
• 30:08 Thinking Big: Managing Smaller Challenges
• 31:10 Climate Migration and Its Impacts
• 33:12 Demographic Shifts in Camping
• 38:09 The Importance of Collaboration

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Episode Links:

• The Book: Imaginable by Jane McGonigal:
  • https://janemcgonigal.com/2021/12/17/imaginable-how-to-see-the-future-coming-and-feel-ready-for-anything-even-things-that-seem-impossible-today/
• https://poe.com/UOScenarioCreator
• https://urgentoptimists.org/

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Our Hosts:

Jess Elfring-Roberts - Executive Director, Episcopal Camps & Conference Centers

Joe Richards - Executive Director, Pearce Williams Summer Camp and Retreat Facility

KJ Williams -  Camp Director, Phantom Lake YMCA Camp

-

Sponsors:

A huge thanks to our sponsors for making this possible.

Campify:

Is creating your camp schedule a headache? Does it limit the experience of campers or staff? Campify is software that does the heavy lifting for you - taking care of group, elective, and specialist scheduling based on your custom scheduling rules.

Interested in learning more? Visit campify.io/CampAhead to schedule a demo or create a free trial today.

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/the-pudding/make-impacts-welcome-diversity-with-camp-research

Diversifying the Narrative by Bringing Practitioners to the Research Table 

 
In this episode of 'The Pudding', hosts Dr. Mandi Baker and Travis Allison are joined by Drs. Lisa Meerts-Brandsma and Jim Sibthorp to dive into groundbreaking research in the camp world. The discussion covers their journeys of becoming researchers, the link between the camping and outdoor education industries, and pivotal findings from recent studies. Lisa emphasizes increasing camp access and inclusion, while Jim highlights the complexities of understanding developmental impacts when researching in isolation. They also share thoughts on the evolution of camp research, potential future directions, and the importance of collaborating closely with practitioners.

Episode Guide

• 00:41 Meet the Hosts and Guests
• 01:07 Lisa & Jim’s Journeys to Camp Research
• 06:41 Jim’s Research:Maximizing Developmental Potential
• 08:53 Lisa’s Research: Increasing Access to Camps
• 11:15 Using Research to Market Camp to a More Diverse Population
• 17:25 The ACA’s Youth Impact Study and Diversifying the Narrative
• 21:50 The Evolution of Camp Research over Jim’s Career
• 28:42 The Missing Piece of the Camp Research Puzzle
• 33:21 Future Directions: Bridges Between Researchers & Practitioners
• 35:27 Future Directions: Experience Quality over Activity Base
• 40:39 Community Level Research & Identity Shaping Experience (ft. the Magic Funding Pot!)
• 43:28 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. Lisa Meerts-Brandsma - Assistant Professor, University of Utah - lisa.meerts@utah.edu
• Dr. Jim Sibthorp - Professor, University of Utah - jim.sibthorp@health.utah.edu

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.

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/the-pudding/excel-doesnt-have-to-be-scary

Harnessing Data for Camp Success with Lee Biear

Hosts Dr. Mandi Baker and Travis Allison engage with Lee Biear, Business Development Director at Camptivities, to explore the transformative power of data in camp management. Lee shares her journey from public health research to camp data analysis, including stories of success in enhancing program quality, diversity, and staff retention rather than just focusing on the bottom line. Highlights the role of storytelling in marketing, how to build good data collection in your organization, and why you should pester your camp registration software company to offer you an API. This episode is a mini-masterclass in leveraging data for operational success and community building in camps.

Episode Guide

• 00:41 Meet the Hosts and Guest Introduction
• 02:14 Lee's Journey into Camp Data
• 05:41 Marketing Strategies for Camps
• 12:25 Importance of Storytelling in Camp Marketing
• 18:13 Are You Really Showing How Safe Your Camp is?
• 23:26 Diving into Megadata
• 26:41 Case Study of Value over Revenue
• 34:41 The Basics of Good Camp Data
• 40:02 Data Collection: Not Just for Nerds Like Us!
• 47:54 What Should be Studied Next?
• 49:01 Who Else Should We be Hanging Out With?

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
• Lee Biear - Director of Business Development, Camptivities - lee@camptivities.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.

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/the-pudding/camp-research-catalyzing-change

Exploring the Future of Camp Research & its Impact with Laurie Brown

In this episode, hosts Travis Allison and Dr. Mandi Baker discuss the significant research efforts and initiatives undertaken by the American Camp Association to understand and improve summer camps. Special guest Laurie Brown, Ph.D, Senior Director of Innovation and Learning at the ACA, shares insights from her journey as a researcher, as well as some behind-the-scenes info about research grants and the innovative approaches the ACA is exploring to enhance camp programming and outcomes. The discussion also highlights ACA's collaborative projects and future ambitions in camp research, emphasizing the need for our industry as a whole to develop professional support for Camp Pros and recognize their expertise as creative problem solvers.

Episode Guide

• 00:41 Meet the Hosts and Guest Introduction
• 01:15 Laurie Brown's Research Journey
• 03:51 The Family Tree of Camp Researchers
• 08:18 Character Development Grant and Research Questions
• 14:13 New Approaches to Research
• 21:15 Being an “Expert Researcher” in Camping
• 30:17 Upcoming Research: Accessibility & Inclusion in Camps
• 35:28 Wellbeing in the Camp Workplace
• 40:16 How the Camp Industry can be Taken Seriously
• 45:48 Who Else Should We be Hanging Out With?
  
  

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
• Laurie Browne, Ph.D, Sr. Director of Innovation and Learning - American Camp Association

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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.

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/the-pudding/impact-of-research

Exploring Camp Research Innovations with Victoria Povilaitis

In the first episode of the second season of 'The Pudding,' hosts Dr. Mandy Baker and Travis Allison invite Victoria Povilaitis, Director of Program Innovation at Tim Horton Foundation Camps, to discuss the exciting developments and research initiatives in camp programming. Victoria shares her insights on the program quality and artistic methods used to enhance camper experiences. She details the Impact 365 measurement approach and explains the importance of inclusivity and diverse perspectives in modern camp research. The conversation also touches on the evolving role of camps in fostering positive youth development, the significance of social and emotional learning, and the innovative project of bringing camp experiences directly to children in schools.

Episode Guide

• 00:00 Welcome to Season Two!
• 00:29 Meet Victoria Povilaitis
• 01:42 Inside Tim's Camps
• 02:34 New Programming Initiatives
• 03:38 Understanding Program Quality
• 05:09 The Five C's of Youth Development
• 11:31 Victoria's Journey into Camp Research
• 19:09 Current Research Projects at Tim's Camps
• 27:13 The Impact of Smartphones at Camp
• 30:41 Future Directions in Camp Research
• 33:59 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

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
• Victoria Povilaitis, Director, Program Innovation - Tim Hortons Foundation Camps

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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.

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/the-pudding/camp-researchers

Let’s shed light on some of the most prominent camp research, right from the researchers themselves!

Our guests, Victoria Povilaitis, Lori Brown, and Jake Sorenson, are not your typical academics. They are the frontline champions of camp research, dedicated to unveiling the intricate ways camps contribute to community building, character building and emotional growth. From the playful yet practical enhancements at Tim Hortons Foundation Camps to the community-driven research of the American Camp Association and the spiritual connections at Christian summer camps through Sacred Playgrounds, each guest brings a wealth of knowledge and a shared passion for nurturing the next generation.

Tune in to hear more about:

• Our Camp Researchers Share Their Current Projects
• Understanding Character Development in Youth
• The Research’s Impact on the Wider Industry
• Exploring the Gaps and Future of Camp Research

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
• Victoria Povilaitis, Director, Program Innovation - Tim Hortons Foundation Camps
• Laurie Browne, Sr. Director of Research and Education - American Camp Association
• Jacob Sorenson, Director and Lead Researcher - Sacred Playgrounds

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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.

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/the-pudding/ethics

Camp Research - The Ethical Way

Mandi gives us a mini-masterclass on all things research and how it applies to both the formal and informal research that we conduct at our camp.

In this episode, we cover:

• What are the common ethics terms and basic ethical practices that camp practices that camp pros should be aware of?
• What are the overarching values that form the foundation of ethical oversight?
• What ethical practices should we consider when conducting research (both formal and informal) at our camps?
• How does academic and research integrity come into play when it comes to research? What does that have to do with how we ideate, innovate and communicate our research in the camp world?

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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

-

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.

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/the-pudding/gen-z

Unlocking the Potential of Gen-Z at Summer Camp

Staffing continues to be one of the biggest thorns in the paws of our industry. It’s a challenge that isn’t likely to go away soon, so what can we do to ride this wave, rather than just letting it crash into us?

Travis and Mandi dig into this topic and share how an approach of curiosity is a Camp Pro’s best tool when working with this generation of camp staff.

In this episode, we cover:

• What do we need to know about this generation of camp staff? How will their worldview shape how they view their role this summer?
• How can we show this generation why the summer camp experience is not just worthwhile, but incredibly desirable?
• How we can help staff understand that camp is one of the best training grounds around for almost all future careers
• Is it possible to screen for the potential of great staff members? What can we do to identify the staff who are going to be super successful this summer?

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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

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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.

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/the-pudding/power-between-people

With great power comes…well, you know the rest.

We all know that even in the sunshine and butterflies that is summer camp, there is evil lurking about. An evil that affects people and communities from all over. It has a name, too.

Are you ready?

Power.

Okay, maybe a bit dramatic, but it’s something nonetheless that we need to talk about when it comes to the microcosm that is summer camp.

On this episode, Mandi and Travis discuss how the power structures of the summer camp world have consequential effects on not just the employees, but the entire culture and program.

You’ll hear about:

• How power is an ever-present entity, how everyone has it (to an extent) and how dynamic it can be
• The risk of harm that can be inherent in the systems that even the most well-intentioned camp leaders can create
• How the different spaces, and the unspoken rules of those spaces create a power-filled environment
• How camp directors can be aware of these systems of power and consider the good, the bad and the ugly in them

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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

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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.

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/the-pudding/good-for-everyone

Just BEING at camp is a good thing - the science proves it!

We intuitively know that camp is a good thing.

We can tell a million heart-filled stories about how camp changes lives.

But as you all know, the proof is certainly in the pudding - so for the discerning camp pros (or camp families we are trying to convince to come to camp!) this episode will be a great place to start!

Dr. Mandi Baker and Travis unpack some of the major findings over the last few years of research when it comes to the benefits of the summer camp experience for everyone involved.

You’ll hear about:

• Why being in nature is a foundational part of the benefits of the camp experience
• The psychosocial benefits of positive community and relationships
• How camp develops physical literacy and a healthy relationship to risk
• How camps are a developmental relationship super-charger
• Where to get your hands on this research

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Links and Resources:

UPLOADS - The Understanding and Preventing Led Outdoor Accidents Data Systems (UPLOADS) Project

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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

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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.

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/the-pudding/being-in-nature

And are we thinking about “nature” too specifically?

Being in nature is good for us - we know this intuitively.

But did you know that science backs this up?

It is proven, beyond doubt, that being in nature decreases anxiety, decreases rumination, and alleviates low mood.

Dr. Mandi Baker and Travis unpack some of the major findings over the last few years of research when it comes to being outdoors and its effect on the individual.

You’ll hear about:

• The scientifically proven physical and emotional benefits of being in nature
• Why getting into nature is especially critical in this day and age
• How our bodies process emotions and how nature can be a way to shortcut that processing
• How can camp professionals explain the benefits and the research to camp families

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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

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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.

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/the-pudding/bubble-magic

How do you measure magic?

Every camp professional, whether new or seasoned, knows what we mean when we say “camp magic”.

For most of us, we think of camp magic as this ethereal, indescribable, ever-present part of camp. This “magic” is what many of us feel sets camp apart from everywhere else.

To a camp researcher, this camp magic is something that is actually definable.

Tune in to this episode to hear Travis and Mandi unpack their vast experience living and researching this “insiders-only” concept.

You’ll hear about:

• What does camp “being a bubble” have to do with camp magic?
• How are the people at camp integral to creating that magic?
• What elements go into creating this “world apart”?
• At what point does “camp magic” become “camp cult?”
• How to support camp staff while they’re living and working in the “bubble”

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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

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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.

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/the-pudding/decoding-research

What is research, and what can it be for camp pros?

We need to start here. 

Before we get into how to use research to empower our marketing and recruiting efforts, we need to unpack the basics of research.

So, whether you’re a research buff or not, this episode is meant to get everyone on the same page before we really dig deep.

You’ll hear about:

• What are the basics of research and the process behind it that we need to know?
• How do we know who the right people to talk to when selecting candidates for qualitative research?
• Why it’s important that we ask kids and gain their insights in the research process
• Why it’s important to consider the context when the research was conducted.
• How do you find research on camp? How do you know what is worth reading?
  • Pro-tip: Use Google Scholar - https://scholar.google.ca/ 
    • Pro-pro-tip - just email the researcher and they may just give you a copy!

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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

-

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.

Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/the-pudding/camp-and-research

Did you know that the positive experience of summer camp is a proven fact?

Yes. It is!

In this new mini-series from Go Camp Pro, join Dr. Mandi Baker and Travis Allison to focus in on prominent and emerging research in the summer camp world.

This episode will set up the rest of the season so tune in and get excited!

You’ll hear about:

• How Mandi found her passion for camp and where the research part of her journey came to be
• Where should we be starting our discussions when it comes to research and camp?
• How do we navigate the research that’s already out there?
• What topics will we cover in this mini-series?

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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

-

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.