Campwire

In this episode, we’re joined by Angus Fletcher, professor of story science at Ohio State’s Project Narrative and a keynote speaker for the 2026 ACA National Conference in San Diego. Angus brings together neuroscience, literature, and psychology to explore how camp uniquely cultivates grit, growth, and emotional resilience in young people—and why these qualities are declining in traditional K–12 environments. Drawing on his research and upcoming keynote, Angus explains what camp gets right: giving young people the chance to be their own role models and develop character in ways that feel organic, personal, and lasting. We dive into powerful ideas like intentional wonder, story sharing, and the concept of “no hero like you,” and discuss how camp professionals can help campers carry grit and growth beyond the summer. Whether you’re a camp director, educator, or youth development professional, this conversation will leave you feeling energized, affirmed in the impact of camp, and inspired to be even more intenti

In this special preview episode of CampWire, we sit down with Dr. Patrice Buckner-Jackson — Dr. PBJ — to introduce her highly anticipated January keynote for the 2025–2026 Staffing Summit. After delivering one of the most requested keynotes of 2024, Dr. PBJ returns to guide camp professionals through a deeper, more expansive conversation on burnout, capacity, and caring for the people who care for campers. You can hear Dr. PBJ’s full keynote live on Wednesday, January 28, as part of the 2025–2026 Staffing Summit event series.   Show notes: Register for the Staffing Summit Disrupting Burnout podcast Center for Creative Leadership Dr. PBJ's new book! 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.

When tensions rise, camp professionals often find themselves navigating the full spectrum of caretaker emotions—sometimes before they've even had their morning coffee. In this episode, Alicia Danenberg, Bristol Posatko, and Chris Rehs-Dupin sit down for an honest conversation about why parents and caretakers become upset, what’s really going on beneath the frustration, and how camp staff can respond with clarity, calm, and confidence. Together, they share practical strategies for de-escalating charged conversations, communicating boundaries without fueling the fire, and staying grounded when someone else is not. They also explore tools for supporting your team, protecting your own well-being, and building trust even in the most challenging interactions. Show notes: Strengthening Parent/Caregiver Communication This Summer TQAMP 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 Alex McLellan, creator of BoxxyBall - the fast-growing catch-and-throw game that's taking camps by storm. What makes BoxxyBall special? It's intentionally designed so every participant can jump in, have fun, and succeed. No one is left on the sidelines. Tune in for a conversation about innovation, inclusion, and the powerful role camps play in ensuring every child has the opportunity to move, play, and thrive. Show notes: BoxxyBall Contact Alex Special Olympics Inclusive Sports Foundation 2026 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 of CampWire, we sit down with Henry DeHart, the newly appointed CEO of the American Camp Association. Henry shares his journey to ACA, his background in leadership and the camp industry, and what drives his passion for ACA’s mission. He also offers a look ahead at his vision for the organization and the opportunities and challenges facing the camp community today. Tune in to get to know the person leading ACA into its next chapter. Show notes: Youth Impact Study Character at Camp Initiative Events Calendar 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 explore what it means to intentionally shape character at camp through the lens of values and virtues. Our guests, Rabbi Avi Orlow and Jonah Canner—both longtime educators and leaders in Jewish learning—join us for a thought-provoking discussion about how camps can name, claim, and define the values that guide their communities. Show notes: ACA Character at Camp Initiative Rabbi Avi Orlow Jonah Canner 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.

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 spo

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 &a

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.