Work Smarter, Not Harder - with Victoria Golden - The Camp Owners Podcast #72

Find all the show notes at https://gocamp.pro/ownerspod/work-smarter

From Overwhelm to Organized: Building Systems That Actually Work

Running a camp is demanding, but it doesn’t have to be exhausting. Your host Howie and guest host Jordanna from the Day Camp Pod, are joined by systems expert Victoria Golden of Polaris Solutions to explore how camp owners and directors can work smarter, not harder. From taming expense tracking to building task and project management systems that actually stick, this conversation is packed with practical, real world ideas you can apply right away. Victoria brings a fresh, thoughtful perspective on using technology and systems to reduce friction while still preserving the personal, relationship driven heart of camp. You’ll hear honest insights about change management, staff buy in and protecting institutional knowledge. If you’re feeling stretched thin and looking for smarter ways to run your camp more effectively, this episode is a must listen!

• 03:17 Victoria Golden's Journey and Expertise
• 08:39 Challenges in Camp Operations
• 11:17 Implementing Efficient Systems
• 14:53 Succession Planning and Institutional Knowledge
• 17:33 Navigating Camp Management Software
• 18:44 Adapting to New Technologies
• 25:38 The Importance of Relationships in Camp Management
• 28:43 Challenges in Implementing Changes at Camp
• 29:28 Building Trust and Buy-In from Staff
• 30:36 Effective Communication and Problem Solving
• 32:11 Optimizing Camp Operations: Tools and Techniques
• 33:54 The Importance of Task Management Systems
• 35:14 Balancing Efficiency with Personal Touch
• 44:01 Reflecting and Iterating on Systems
• 47:15 Rapid Fire Questions with Victoria
• 49:21 Connecting with Victoria and Final Thoughts

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Your Hosts:

• Howie Grossinger - Co-owner/Director - Camp Robin Hood, Partner - Camp Walden & Madawaska Camps
• Jordanna Grossinger, Director - Camp Robin Hood

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Your Guests:

• Victoria Golden - Managing Director - Polaris Solutions

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Thanks to our sponsors:Whereabouts

Your mission is campers. Ours is making their experience coordinated and connected. 

Whereabouts is the only camper management system that keeps Parents, Admin, and Staff in sync in real time — so every camper’s day runs with confidence, clarity, and care. Check them out whereaboutsapp.io

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