Rethinking Camp from the Inside Out - with Nelson Strickland - The Camp Owners Podcast #71

https://gocamp.pro/ownerspod/inside-out

How Nelson Strickland Uses Design Theory, Candor and Learning Circles to Strengthen Camp Culture

What if you approached your camp the way a designer approaches a space - intentionally, thoughtfully and with the end experience always in mind? In this episode Howie Grossinger and Kelly Schuna are joined by Nelson Strickland for a conversation on how design theory can transform both camper and staff experiences. Nelson shares practical frameworks for creating spaces of candor, building strong learning circles and identifying the weak links that quietly hold camps back. You’ll also hear actionable insights on staff recruitment, retention and how to balance approachability with clear leadership. This episode is a must listen for camp owners and leaders who want to move beyond “the way we’ve always done it” and design a camp culture that truly works.

• 04:51 Nelson's Camp Journey
• 11:44 Design Theory in Camp Management
• 25:59 Creating Spaces for Candor
• 33:46 The Importance of Staff Connection
• 38:12 Empowering Leadership Teams
• 39:02 Balancing Autonomy and Wisdom
• 39:31 The Participation Principle
• 40:03 Applying Candor in Camp Operations
• 42:16 Internship Programs for Camp Staff
• 45:29 Accessibility in Camp Leadership
• 48:08 Staff Recruitment Strategies
• 49:28 Embracing New Perspectives in Camp
• 52:51 The Power of Saying No
• 54:02 The Role of Technology in Camps
• 01:00:42 The Importance of Learning Circles

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Your Hosts:

• Howie Grossinger - Co-owner/Director - Camp Robin Hood, Partner - Camp Walden & Madawaska Camps
• Kelly Schuna - Owner - Hidden Pines Ranch
• Nelson Strickland - Board Co-Chair - Camp Jamison

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Episode Links:

So You Think You Can Camp 

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