First Class Counselors
Camp counselors have the most important job at summer camp. Period. A great camp staff will have kids wanting to come back to camp year after year. First Class Counsellors is here to make great camp staff. Each week, we’ll cover practical and accessible tips that will level up your camp counselor skills. Our two hosts, Oliver Gregan, Summer and Families Camp Director at YMCA Camp Jewell and Matt Honsberger from Go Camp Pro are excited to be able to provide this resource to camp counselors.
Big Emotions, Burnout, and Better Support - with Dane Savoury - First Class Counselors #87
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Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/big-emotions-burnout-and-better-support
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What Camp Staff Learned From the Challenges of Summer 2026
Join Dane and Matt as they reflect on the challenges, surprises, and lessons of summer 2026. From the unexpected success of screen free camp experiences to the growing mental health needs of campers and staff, this conversation explores what counselors and camp directors can learn from the season to make summer 2027 even better. They discuss how to help anxious campers adjust at...
Ten Top Tips for Summer 2026 - First Class Counselors #86
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Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/ten-top-tips-for-summer-2026
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Preparing for a Successful 2026 Summer Camp Season
Join Oliver and Matt for the season finale of First Class Counselors as they count down ten essential tips for the upcoming 2026 summer. This episode provides a quick reference guide for frontline staff focusing on everything from active supervision and safety protocols to the psychology of camper behavior. The hosts discuss how to create a culture of belonging through strength based mindsets and...
Connecting with Modern Camper Culture - First Class Counselors #85
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Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/connecting-with-modern-camper-culture
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How Digital Media Shapes Modern Camper Expectations
This episode explores the intersection of modern pop culture and the summer camp experience. The team discusses the transition from traditional play to the watching culture of YouTube and streaming services, emphasizing how counselors can use this knowledge to build genuine connections with campers. The conversation breaks down the differences between digital open world environments and physical skill building while offering practical advice...
So You Want to Be “On Leadership”? First Class Counselors #84
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Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/so-you-want-to-be-on-leadership
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Understanding the Responsibility and Reality of Summer Camp Leadership Roles
This episode explores the transition from being a frontline counselor to joining the seasonal leadership team. This episode dismantles the myth that leadership is about status or power, instead framing it as a vital shift toward serving staff and maintaining the camp mission from behind the scenes. They discuss how to identify if you are ready for the move, how...
Be Better at Giving Consequences - with Dane Savoury - First Class Counselors #83
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Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/be-better-at-giving-consequences
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Teaching Through Consequences Instead of Punishment
Join Matt and Dane as they dive into part two of their masterclass on summer camp discipline. This episode shifts the focus from general headspace to the practical application of consequences and the art of camper reintegration. They explore how counselors can move away from punitive winning mindsets and instead use every mistake as a teaching opportunity that builds trust rather than breaking it...
Are we Disciplining Kids Enough? - with Dane Savoury - First Class Counselors #82
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Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/are-we-disciplining-kids-enough
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Reframing Discipline as a Teaching Tool for Every Counselor
Join Matt and Dane as they redefine what it means to lead through discipline in a summer camp setting. Dane shares his twenty-one years of experience working with diverse populations to explain why discipline should be viewed as a teaching tool rather than a punitive measure. The conversation explores how counselors can set themselves up for success by building intentional rela`...
Using Stats To Master Counseling - First Class Counselors #81
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Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/using-stats-to-master-counseling
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How You Can Become A Data-Driven Leader
This episode dives into the numbers behind great counseling, from safety ratios to camper retention. By treating camp as a measurable social business, staff can identify their strengths, improve their safety efficiency, and track their personal growth throughout the summer. They discuss how to turn qualitative experiences into quantitative success to help every staff member become a first class counselor.
Key...
Should We Send Them Home? - First Class Counselors #80
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Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/should-we-send-them-home
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Finding Connection When You Are Frustrated
We’ve all been there. It’s week four, the coffee machine is broken, you are trying to get the cabin to the flagpole on time, and that camper is dragging their feet, making fart noises, and holding the broom upside down during cleanup. You don't necessarily want them sent home, but they are absolutely testing your patience. In this "high empathy" episode, Oliver and...
Meaningful and Masterful Facilitation - First Class Counselors #79
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Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/meaningful-and-masterful-facilitation
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Stop Talking, Start Leading: The Counselor's Guide to Facilitation
Join Oliver and Matt as they delve into the art and science of facilitation—the core skill needed to run first-class activities, whether it's team building, archery, or a simple transition. This episode breaks down the critical stages of leading a group, from the moment they arrive to the final debrief. Learn how to master first impressions, use language ef...
Building a Culture of Belonging for Every Camper with Lisa Drennan - First Class Counselors #78
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Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/building-a-culture-of-belonging
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The Counselor's Guide to Universal Design, Behavior as Communication, and True Inclusion
Join Oliver, Matt, and special guest Lisa Drennan as they dive deep into creating truly inclusive camp environments. Lisa emphasizes that belonging is the new inclusion. The discussion moves beyond simple access to practical, real-world strategies counselors can use daily, including adopting Universal Design principles, proactively using visual schedules and positive expectations, and understanding that all...
Stopping Inappropriate Language in the Moment - First Class Counselors #77
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Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/stopping-inappropriate-language
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Words Stick: How to Intervene When Camper Language Crosses the Line
This episode, Oliver and Matt move give counselors the tactical framework needed to intervene immediately and effectively when campers use inappropriate, insensitive, or hurtful language. From the simple swear word to comments that are sexist, racist, or bullying, you'll learn exactly how to respond—whether you hear the comment directly, think you overheard it, or receive a re...
Inspiring Programs & Traditions from Top Camps - First Class Counsellors #76
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Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/traditions
Steal These Amazing Camp Ideas!
Welcome to Season 8 of First Class Counsellors! Oliver and Matt are back with a brand-new season, starting things off by swapping some of the coolest camp traditions and programs they’ve seen across North America. From celebrating CITs to welcoming first-time campers, this episode is packed with practical, stealable ideas that will help you bring more meaning, fun, and connection to your camp community.
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Let’s Get Real About Camp Staff Expectations - First Class Counselors #75
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Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/expectations
We need to be honest about how hard (and how great) it is to be a camp counselor!
Join Oliver Gregan and Matt Wilfrid as they delve into the crucial aspects of starting a career as a camp counselor in part two of their series. The discussion highlights vital tips and expectations for new counselors, focusing on the importance of preparation, safety, and understanding the multifaceted roles at camp. They emphasize the...
You've Got the Job!...Now What? - First Class Counselors #74
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Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/got-the-job-now-what
Onboarding and Prioritization - What Sets Real First Class Counselors Apart!
This episode of First Class Counselors is your guide to rocking the first step of your next summer at camp. Oliver and Matt break down essential skills for new and returning staff, covering everything from nailing the onboarding process to prioritizing your time and staying resilient when things get tough.
Key takeaways include:
Onboarding like a pro:...What to Expect When You're Expecting...Staff Training! - First Class Counselors #73
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Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/staff-training-expect
Congratulations! You’re having a wild, wonderful bundle of CAMP!
Staff training season is upon us (that is, if you’re listening to this episode in May) and while camp staff around the world are finishing up the school year, camp directors are putting the final touches on staff training.
If you’ve never been, or are newer to staff training before it’s this entirely different world, within an entir...
Stories that Shaped Us - First Class Counselors #72
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Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/stories
Gather ‘round the campfire for these funny, impactful and straight-up bizarre stories!
Today is not a topic but a feel. A vibe if you will.
We’ve been in camping for some time now and that means we have collected a few stories to share. Not a campfire story but just personal stories of our time as camp people. You might have run into an old camp frie...
Generation A - Our Campers - First Class Counselors #71
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Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/gen-a
Generation-A are our campers - how can we effectively work with them at camp?
Generation-A, or Gen-A are kids that are born between 2010 and 2024. Born the same year as the release of the iPad, most socially affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and the generation that is currently almost 100% of the summer camp population.
It seems like the post-pandemic camper population is a bit of a beast these days. Camps hiring social...
Water Safety and Water Programs - First Class Counselors #70
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Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/water-safety
Water safety (and fun!) starts with Camp Counselors
Many camps sport a waterfront, a pool or even host a wet and wild Wednesday! Today we want to talk about programming at these water-based activities to make sure campers are safe and having a blast.
You may be thinking “wait a minute, I’m not a lifeguard, so why should I listen? While you may not have the official qualifications to be a lif...
Are They A Terrible Staff Member...Or Is It Me? - First Class Counselors #69
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Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/terrible-staff
You may not like them, you may not counsel like them, but that doesn’t mean they suck.
It can happen to even the most First Class Counselor. For reasons that may seem perfectly valid and logical, a staff member gets it in their head that one of their co-workers is a terrible staff member. What ensues is drama, hurt feelings and escalations that can take away from the camp experience for others.
...Wait...Is This a Cult? - Ceremonies and Traditions at Summer Camp - First Class Counselors #68
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Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/camp-is-a-cult
Summer camp is culty - but in a good way, we swear!
If you are new to summer camp and reading this, you may not get the whole “cult” angle.
It’s a common joke amongst experienced camp staff and directors that camp is essentially a cult. There are many reasons for this, but the main one is how intentional we are with the ceremonies and traditions we have at camp.
Th...
Meet Your Camp Director - Part 1 - First Class Counselors #67
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Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/meet-your-camp-director-1
Part 1 - What we got wrong…
Just who is that person walking around with a clipboard all day?
To most Camp Counselors, the Camp Director is a strange and mythical creature. They’re like a teacher…but completely different. They’re like a boss…but definitely not in the traditional sense.
So who are they?
In this first of a series of episodes, we break down some of the ass...
How to Talk to Adults - First Class Counselors #66
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Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/how-to-talk-to-adults
You didn’t sign up to be a camp counsellor because you loved talking to adults…right?
In the world of a camp counselor, there is no other part of the job that is simultaneously as short and as important as the interactions you have with the adults that find their way on site.
Whether it’s parents, caregivers, alumni or your camp management, being able to naviga...
Putting Campers First - Why It's Hard and Why It's Necessary - First Class Counselors #65
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Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/campers-first
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It’s not that you come second…well…it kind of is...
Camp counselors are special. Not just because of all the incredible skills you learn and teach, but because it’s one of the only jobs that requires you to prioritize the health and experience of kids in your care - all day. This isn’t easy. It takes a special type of person to do the job.
People...
Campers and Staff These Days (are we boomers?) - First Class Counselors #64
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Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/campers-and-staff-these-days
Welcome back! How was your summer?
We’re so grateful to have you folks join us for another season of First Class Counselors. In this episode, Oliver and Matt share a bit about their summers, and what they’re thinking about going into the 2024 season.
Topics:
How would you describe your summer in 3 words?Share a favourite story from the summerWhat are some of the trends and interesting things we noti...Interview Skills to Land the Camp Job of Your Dreams - First Class Counsellors #63
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Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/interview-skills-to-land-the-camp-job-of-your-dreams
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These interview skills will set you apart!
It's the most wanted summer job in the world. Honestly, with the recent pay increases, workplace experience and the amazingness of camp it truly is a job people from around the world seek. So how do you stand out in your interview? Today we are going to cover the application process and some of the important parts of...
Eat Like Royalty At Summer Camp - First Class Counselors #62
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Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/eat-like-royalty
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Camp food can suck but it doesn’t have to!
In the hierarchy of things we love, food reigns supreme.
But, let’s be honest, camp food can be…well camp food. Sometimes, it’s a step above high school lunch but also not as great as your typical college food hall. It serves the purpose of caloric intake and satisfying the picky eating o...
Intentional First Impressions with Campers - First Class Counselors #61
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Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/first-impressions-campers
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What to do the first time you’re alone with campers…
It’s arguably the most stressful time in a camp counsellor’s life. It’s the first day of camp, the caregivers have just left and it’s now just you and the campers. As 10 sets of eyes stare in anticipation, it dawns on you that what you do and say next really matters.
How you spend that first little...
Games You Can Learn and Play in 60 Seconds - First Class Counselors #60
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Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/60-second-games
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Have 60 seconds? Here are 8 awesome games you can play with campers!
Do you need a minute?
How about a short quick way to play a game that makes a “meh” moment a “Yay!” Moment. It’s episode 60, so we’re talking 60 seconds or less to play a game or add an element to make your moments the moments!
To explain each game Matt and I have 60 sec...
You and Your Phone at Summer Camp - First Class Counselors #59
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Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/you-and-your-phone-at-summer-camp-
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No phone, no problem! Maybe?
The modern world has always tried to make its way into camp. That’s because camp is meant to be a refuge from the world’s pressures.
In the 90s and early 2000s, many camps even introduced coding. But the invention of the smartphone changed the story, not just for camp but the world. The connection the phone provides means fostering connection off o...
How to (Kindly) Raise Gritty Campers - First Class Counselors #58
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Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/how-to-kindly-raise-gritty-campers
You don’t have to sacrifice care and support in order to promote grit!
Perhaps you have heard of Angela Ducksworth’s book “Grit: the power of passion and perseverance” Or if you have been in the camp conference circuit awhile and the opportunity to listen to Dr. Deborah Gilboa speak about resilience.
Or maybe you’ve heard of Jimmy Donaldson, or Mr. Beast speak about the subject of g...
Our Biggest Baddest Blunders - First Class Counselors #57
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Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/our-biggest-baddest-blunders
It’s not if you’ll make a mistake…it’s when you’ll make one.
We all make mistakes, but the best part about making them at camp is that you are in one of the most supportive work environments ever. Making mistakes is how you know that you’ve pushed your comfort zone, so if you’re lucky enough to make a bunch, you’r...
Taking Camp Home With You - First Class Counselors #56
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Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/taking-camp-home
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Welcome to Season 5 of First Class Counselors!
Summer is over and you have scrolled through your gallery a bunch remembering how much fun you had.
Camp offered a lot - fun, food, friends. But it also taught you a lot and equip you for life after camp. As you unpack, we unpack all the ways you never truly leave summer camp behind.
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Links f...
6 Things You Can Do RIGHT NOW To Prepare for the Summer - First Class Counselors #55
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Summer is coming…here’s what every First Class Counselor should be doing to prepare!
If you’re listening to this podcast in real-time, then we are in the home stretch. Camp is coming and you can’t stop it now!
This episode is for any camp counselor, but specifically for the ones who are brand new, or any who want to shake off the rust of a few summers away, or for a...
Self-Evaluations - First Class Counselors #54
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Being able to do this truly separates the counselors, and the First Class Counselors!
One of the best parts about working at camp is the incredibly dynamic skill-set that you leave the job with. Not only do you gain super-human skills when it comes to working with kids, you’ll pick up a ton fmore in the realm of teamwork, creativity, maintenance, cleaning, cooking…do we need to go on?
You grow...
How to Be Your Director's Best Camp Counselor Ever - First Class Counselors #53
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Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/be-your-directors-best-counselor
You heard it from the pros…now here’s how to be the best they've ever seen.
If you missed the last episode, you’ll want to listen to it before this one. Listen here:
https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/your-directors-best-counselor
So now that you have listened you might be wondering…why are there so many different types of great counselors?
We learn that the value of a counselor...
Your Director's Best Camp Counselor Ever - First Class Counselors #52
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Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/your-directors-best-counselor
Straight from the horse’s…er…camp director’s mouth!
It’s a special episode of First Class Counselors. Oliver and many of our Go Camp Pro Podcast hosts are at the Tri-State Camp Conference, so we thought we’d use that time to our advantage.
In this episode, you will hear camp pros from across North America share their answer to “why was the best camp counselor who ever worked for you, the b...
Ages and Stages - part 2 - ages 11 to 16 - First Class Counselors #51
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The kings, queens and royalty of sass. These campers need a little bit of extra patience and love.
Last episode, we introduced the emotional, physical and mental triangle of care and how it informs how counselors work with 5-11 years old at camp.
This episode we push into the wild unknowns of puberty and teenagers and share how we can work with their unique place in social-emotional development. These campers are...
Ages and Stages - part 1 - ages 5 to 11 - First Class Counselors #50
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Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/ages-and-stages-1
How to understand, play with and take care of the delightful wee ones at camp.
97.2% of camps in North America run an “ages and stages” session during their staff training.
Ok, we made that number up, but what ISN’T made up is the fact that it’s one of the most important things to learn before starting your summer. This will sound obvious but something that we - and counselors - can ea...
Ace Your Next Camp Interview - Gabrielle Raill & Tiff Gratton-McDuffie - First Class Counselors #49
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Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/ace-your-next-interview
Do you ever wish you could get inside the head of the person interviewing you? Well wish no more!
It’s interview season for many camps! Around the world, camp counselors are preparing to share why they are the right fit for a camp position this summer. So, in the spirit of giving you an insider’s perspective, we have 3 camp directors on the panel who are hiring camp staff RIGHT NOW to tell...
The International Camp Counselor Experience - with Adam Heslop - First Class Counselors #48
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Whether you’re an international staff member or welcoming an international staff to your camp this summer, this episode is for you!
Did you know that in a normal year, there are over 20,000 international camp staff members that come to North America to experience the summer camp phenomenon? No joke!
Adam Heslop, the Summer Camp Programs Staffing Placement Coordinator from IENA (International Exchange of North America), joins Matt and Oliver to sh...
