New England Camp Podcast

Go behind the scenes of the New England Camp Conference with Conference Corner from ACA, New England!In our October episode, Bud and Gillian kick off this monthly series connecting you with the people, planning, and ideas behind the conference. Whether you’re a longtime attendee or considering joining us for the first time, Conference Corner is your invitation to follow along as the conference takes shape.Subscribe for a new episode each month, and share this episode with a colleague you’d love to bring to the conference.What would you like to hear about in a future episode? Leave your questions in the comments!#ConferenceCorner #NewEnglandCampConference #ACANewEngland #CampProfessionals

Bud sits down with Mikele Block, camp director at Camp CaPella in Dedham, Maine, to share how a nonprofit camp serving children and adults with disabilities creates meaningful experiences and a strong staff culture. Mikele’s path into camp is anything but traditional, and that’s part of what makes her perspective valuable. This conversation is especially useful for anyone thinking about leadership, hiring, retention, and what it looks like to build a mission-driven team.In this episode, Mikele Block shares how she went from a background in mental health and human services to becoming camp director at Camp Capella.Camp Capella is a smaller summer camp serving individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities, with a weekly cap of 25 campers.Mikele describes how camp programming is built around inclusion, comfort, and familiarity, so campers arrive feeling like they are “surrounded by my people.”The team runs day and overnight camp, with programming that includes movement and music, STEM, archery, fishing, boating, and highly creative arts activities.One standout art activity involved dogs licking peanut butter off sealed bags to move paint onto canvases, showing how Camp Capella adapts programming to be playful and accessible.Mikele explains that hiring is driven less by paper credentials and more by conversation, connection, and mission alignment.She emphasizes scenario-based interviews, in-person conversations when possible, and looking for people who are emotionally invested in the campers’ success.Staff retention at Camp Capella is strong because the team invests in skill development, intentional debriefs, a connected off-season community, and a culture of feedback in every direction.Mikele also shares how camp changed her understanding of leadership: the best leaders are the ones who work alongside their teams, not just behind a closed door.The conversation closes with personal reflections on camp life, including the sound of the boat motor turning on during week one, dressing like a “girly girl” at camp, and the lesson a camper taught her to slow down and notice the moment.

Timestamps

00:00 - Welcome to the New England Camp Podcast and introduction to Camp Capella

00:59 - Mikele Block introduces herself as camp director

01:52 - Growing up in Maine as an outdoors kid, not a camp kid

03:07 - Education and early work in mental health and human services

03:32 - Joining Camp Capella’s board and falling in love with the camp

04:23 - Stepping away, then getting pulled back into camp years later

05:30 - The unexpected message that led to her camp director role

07:45 - What Camp Capella is and who it serves

08:15 - Day camp, overnight camp, and Miller Lodge as the camp hub

09:11 - Why campers feel at home and are celebrated exactly as they are

10:02 - Small-group programming and the range of activities offered

10:32 - Creative art programming, including the dog-assisted paint activity

11:47 - What Camp Capella looks for when hiring staff

12:49 - Why emotional connection matters more than a perfect resume

13:28 - Using in-person conversations to hire better

14:10 - The four-part approach to staff retention

15:18 - Intentional support and open communication with staff

15:56 - Off-season community, reunions, and ongoing connection

16:56 - Building a culture where staff give each other feedback

18:40 - Leadership lessons learned by working alongside the team

20:53 - Investing in staff as a way to strengthen the whole camp

21:39 - The sound of the boat motor on opening day

22:17 - What the staff lovingly tease Mikele about

23:26 - The camper who taught her to slow down

24:50 - Closing reflections on camp, leadership, and gratitude

Camp in Five

Bud and Ayla from ACA New England share five things camp staff learn through experience—from speaking the secret language of camp to realizing that even a small victory can feel huge when you’re in the middle of it.

In this first episode of Camp in Five, hear why staff care about camp’s little traditions, how hard days can still become good stories, and why camp has a way of following you home.In this episode:

• The vocabulary and traditions that make camp feel like its own world
• Why small wins matter when you’re solving problems and adapting on the fly
• How camp’s seemingly little details become meaningful
• Why a difficult day can still hold memorable moments
• How camp experiences can shape the way you show up beyond the summer

For camp staff, directors, parents, and anyone curious about what makes camp culture so lasting.

A career in camp can start with one yes and turn into a life built on leadership, resilience, and real-world growth. Luke joins Bud to share how a kid from England who never expected to work in the U.S. found his path through Camp America, turned summer camp into a calling, and built a life and career in Maine.Luke opens up about the mentors who shaped him, the teachers and coaches who pushed him toward education, and the moment he realized camp was not just a summer job but a powerful training ground for life. From coaching basketball and rugby to learning how to lead in unpredictable moments, he explains why camp develops the skills employers actually want: teamwork, adaptability, confidence, and emotional intelligence.You’ll discover:

• Why camp and school are more connected than most people realize
• How international staff can turn one summer into a long-term career path
• What Luke learned from a major kitchen crisis that forced him to lead under pressure
• Why saying yes to unfamiliar roles can unlock opportunities you never planned for
• How camp helps kids and staff build confidence by trying, failing, and trying again

Luke also shares the story of building a camp life alongside his wife Alana, a nurse and fellow camp professional, and what it means to make big decisions as a team. Along the way, he offers direct advice for future camp counselors, especially international staff wondering whether the leap is worth it.If you’ve ever wondered whether summer camp could be more than a seasonal job, this episode is your answer. Essential listening for aspiring camp professionals, international staff, educators, and anyone who wants a career that changes people as much as it changes you.

Adair Arbor is our first guest on season two of the New England Camp Podcast. Adair is a camp director with Farm and Wilderness Foundation and President of the Vermont Camp Association. Bud and Adair trace her path from first attending overnight camp at age four to leading camps, mentoring staff, and navigating a major flooding crisis in Vermont. We discuss how camp shapes careers, why clear expectations matter for staff, and why human connection is still one of camp’s biggest strengths.

In this episode, Bud introduces season two of the New England Camp Podcast, focusing on the camp professional career path, the role of emerging professionals, and key lessons learned from years of working with EPIC.

KEY TOPICS

• Camp career paths are rarely linear and often shaped by opportunity and chance.
• The concept of Epic as a community for emerging professionals in camping.
• The importance of networking, mentorship, and community in career growth.
• Vertical conversations and how to navigate them effectively.
• The challenges of change and how to leverage it for personal and professional growth.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Season Two and Podcast Goals

02:04 The North Star and Focus Areas for ACA New England

03:50 The Role of Epic in Developing Emerging Professionals

06:06 The Diversity and Inclusivity of the Epic Community

08:10 Five Key Observations About Camp Careers

09:59 The Non-Linear Nature of Career Paths in Camping

12:04 The Importance of Vertical Conversations

13:51 The Challenge and Opportunity of Change

14:48 Building Your Network and Industry Engagement

Discover the new North Star guiding ACA New England and its role in uniting camp professionals. In this episode, we reveal the vision, introduce key leaders shaping the future, and explore how this guiding principle fosters community and growth across the region.

Key Topics:

• The adoption of a new North Star for ACA New England
• The significance of a shared vision for regional growth
• Leadership insights from Ian Morehouse, past board president
• The upcoming role of Jeff Gleason, current board president
• How the North Star aligns with camp success and community support
• The strategic importance of networks for professional development
• Encouragement to stay connected and supportive throughout the summer

• ACA New England
• More about the North Star concept

• Ian Morehouse - LinkedIn
• Jeff Gleason - LinkedIn

In this episode of the New England Camp Podcast, Michele shares insights from her recent Hill Day experience, emphasizing the importance of advocacy, international programs, and engaging with policymakers to support the camping industry.

Thank you to Chalmers Camp Insurance for sponsoring this episode.

Bud and John McNair, the Standards Chair for New England, talk about the accreditation process in camping. They discuss the importance of standards, the role of visitors, and how accreditation supports professional growth and program quality.

Bud and Gillian explore the upcoming New England Camp Conference, highlighting its community focus, educational opportunities, and fun activities. Conference Chairs Carly Vargas and Zach D'Arbeloff also stop by. See ya'll in Manchester!

Key Topics

• Community and Networking at the Conference
• Educational Sessions and Program Highlights
• Expo Hall and Vendor Opportunities

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the New England Camp Podcast

02:51 Overview of the New England Camp Conference

10:54 The Importance of Community at the Conference

13:54 Navigating the Conference Experience

16:54 Networking Opportunities and Building Connections

19:51 The New England Camp Expo: A Hub of Innovation

23:06 Fun Activities and Engagement at the Expo

25:45 Keynote Speaker and Conference Highlights

30:33 Engaging with Keynote Speakers

31:08 Introduction to Project PK

32:21 Innovative Program Highlights

33:00 Volunteer Opportunities at the Conference

36:32 Volunteer Incentives and Raffles

39:17 Conference Preparation Tips

41:43 Food and Beverage Options

44:14 Personal Connections and Anticipations

48:26 Looking Forward to Community Engagement

51:56 Upcoming Events and Opportunities

https://acanewengland.org/necc

In this episode of the New England Camp Podcast, Bud Copeland and Ayla Gudelsky discuss the importance of connections made at camp, especially around Valentine's Day. They share stories of how camp experiences have led to lasting relationships. The conversation highlights the significance of community and networking within the camp environment, encouraging listeners to share their own camp stories and connections.-Connections made at camp can last a lifetime.-Valentine's Day is a great time to reflect on camp relationships.-Camp experiences often lead to unexpected friendships and romances.-The ACA New England emphasizes the importance of community.-Sharing stories helps strengthen the camp network.-Camp milestones are worth celebrating, no matter how small.-Personal stories can inspire others to share their own.-Networking at camp can lead to professional opportunities.-The camp experience teaches valuable life skills.-Building connections is essential for a thriving camp community.00:00 Introduction to Camp Connections02:51 Valentine's Day and Camp Relationships05:51 Personal Camp Stories and Experiences09:57 Submissions of Camp Love Stories15:04 Celebrating Camp Friendships and Connections

Summary

In this episode of the New England Camp Podcast, Bud and Kerry Salvo discuss the importance of community in camping, Kerry's journey in the camp industry, and the upcoming New England Camp Conference. They highlight the role of the expo hall in connecting vendors and camps, and introduce the new New England Business Membership aimed at supporting local businesses and consultants in the camping community.

Shoutout to Gillian for her work in updating the sign here at New England HQ. We're closed starting Christmas Day and will return the Monday after New Years. New England Camp Conference registration will remain open along with ACA's CampCounts survey.https://acanewengland.org for more. See you in 2026

In this episode of the New England Camp Podcast, Bud and Michele reflect on the past year in the camping industry, discussing the successful return to normalcy post-COVID, highlights from the New England Camp Conference, and the importance of community engagement and professional development. They emphasize the need for diverse leadership within the organization and the financial support available for members. The conversation wraps up with a look ahead to future plans and a warm holiday message.TakeawaysThis year was a positive year for the camping community.The team has become more stable and effective.The overarching theme was a return to normalcy.The New England Camp Conference is a key highlight.Organizational goals include finding diverse board members.Professional development offerings are expanding.Financial support is available for members in need.Community engagement is crucial for growth.The camping industry is focused on improving experiences.The podcast aims to connect and support camp professionals.Chapters00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:51 Reflecting on a Successful Year03:55 The New England Camp Conference Highlights08:57 Organizational Goals and Board Development13:58 Professional Development and Member Engagement19:39 Financial Support and Community Growth25:56 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans

ACA, New England has two more Coffee & Camp Chats for 2025. Check acanewengland.org/events for the links. Friday 12/12 online at 10am and Monday 12/15 LIVE in Bridgton, ME from 11am - 2:30pm.Also, CampCounts from ACA Inc. is back. Primary Contacts for camps should've received an email Friday with the deets. Get in touch with Bud or any of your friends at ACA Inc. if you have questions.

Last week, 14 dedicated camp pros met at Camp Sunshine on Sebago Lake to complete Part II of the Accreditation Volunteer Course (formerly Associate Visitor Course). Thank you to our partners at ACA Inc. for the materials; Scott Malm and Jo-Ellen Ross for their instruction and education; Haillie, Gillian, Ayla, and Kerry in our office for putting this together and getting the word out; Michele and the Board for their ongoing support (and lunch!); our fourteen NEW New England Visitors; and of course you. Help us help camping, and spread the word or get involved with ACA Accreditation. acanewengland.org for more.

On today's Monday Message, Bud talks about Giving Tuesday goals for ACA, New England including where the money goes. He teases the latest episode of the New England Camp Podcast which features ACA, New England teammate, Gillian Gold. Gillian shares her camp story, and the two of them dive into the New England Camp Conference. What is it? Where is it? What to expect?

In this episode of the New England Camp Podcast, Bud and Gillian discuss the importance of camp experiences, share personal camp stories, and highlight the upcoming New England Camp Conference. Gillian shares her journey through various camps, emphasizing the value of diverse experiences in shaping her love for the camp community. The conversation also includes fun icebreaker questions and a detailed overview of the conference, including the innovative PechaKucha presentation used for Saturday's general session.

1. **Investment in Education Pays Off** Katie emphasized that investing in education for both staff and campers has yielded positive results. This summer saw an increase in awareness and preparedness among staff when it came to recognizing and addressing inappropriate behaviors. For instance, when incidents arose, staff were better equipped to communicate and escalate concerns promptly to Chalmers and other partners. This proactive approach allowed for quicker interventions and support, making it clear that ongoing education is essential for safety and well-being.2. **Learning Opportunities from Emergencies** Highlighted the importance of learning from past emergencies and close calls. Katie noted that camps in New England experienced repeated challenges in specific program areas, questioning whether staff were adequately trained. An example given was of long-serving program leaders stepping aside, leaving gaps in knowledge and experience. Camps must ensure that new leaders receive comprehensive training to maintain high standards of safety and programming.3. **Natural Hazards and Severe Weather** The unpredictability of weather continues to be a challenge for camps. Katie discussed the rising number of calls regarding wildlife encounters, particularly with bats. Camps need to have clear protocols in place for such occurrences, as well as an understanding of local animal control resources. Being prepared for natural hazards is not just about reacting but also about anticipating potential issues before they arise.4. **Human Resources Challenges** A notable topic discussed was the increasing need for support in human resources. As camps face more complex issues around investigations, terminations, and harassment claims, it is crucial for directors to be equipped with the knowledge and resources to handle these situations effectively. The podcast highlighted the fact that many camp directors may not have formal HR training, leading to a need for additional support and education in this area.

In this episode of the New England Camp Podcast, Bud discusses the importance of accreditation in the camping industry, previewing the process of becoming an accredited camp through ACA New England. He explains the role of peer review, the steps involved in the accreditation process, and the significance of site visits. The episode also highlights the vital role of trained visitors in supporting camps throughout the accreditation journey and the ongoing responsibilities camps have to maintain their accredited status.-Accreditation is an independent third-party review of camp policies and operations.-The accreditation process can take 6 to 18 months depending on the camp's readiness.-Accreditation is about meeting industry standards, not a cookie-cutter approach.-Site visits are crucial for evaluating compliance with accreditation standards.-Visitors play a leading role in helping camps succeed in accreditation.-Maintaining accreditation involves the Annual Accreditation Report and a compliance statement.-Accreditation helps camps avoid complacency and maintain high standards.-The process is designed to raise the quality of camping experiences.-Visitor engagement is essential for knowledge transfer and community building.Chapters00:00 Introduction to ACA New England and Accreditation06:00 The Accreditation Process: Steps to Becoming Accredited12:07 The Role of Visitors in the Accreditation Process16:54 Maintaining Accreditation: Annual Requirements and Responsibilities