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In this episode of MC Fireside Chats, host Brian Searl is joined by Don Bennett, Jr., owner of Conesus Lake Campground; Melissa Baker, Director of Virginia State Parks; and Louis Thompson, Founder and CEO of Nomadic Resorts. Brian opens by explaining that this episode is unique, allowing for deeper conversations with the guests due to the extra week in the month, which provides an opportunity for a more intimate discussion with fewer guests. Don Bennett discusses his semi-retirement and the operations of his family’s two campgrounds in the Finger Lakes, along with their company, Murch Tourism. They distribute campground brochures and travel guides at consumer shows, with several upcoming events in Allentown, New York, Cleveland, and Hershey. Don also talks about his new role as the Executive Director of the Illinois Campground Association and their legislative goals, emphasizing the importance of adapting to changing trends in the RV industry, such as the shift towards smaller units that are easier to manage and place less demand on campground infrastructure. Louis Thompson delves into the potential of 3D printing in building construction, mentioning a project in Texas where the first 3D-printed hotel is being built. He highlights the benefits of 3D printing for creating innovative designs but also expresses concerns about the impact on traditional building trades. Louis describes the trend of van life, where young people retrofit traditional vans into camper vans, and how Nomadic Resorts focuses on creating modular, luxury tented camps that combine comfort with sustainability and mobility. He showcases their innovative designs, including the Looper, a modular, luxury tent that can withstand severe weather conditions. Melissa Baker explains her role as Director of Virginia State Parks, overseeing 42 state parks with various camping accommodations. She discusses the planning process for state parks, which involves public input every ten years to guide the development of camping facilities. Melissa highlights the differences between state and private campgrounds, emphasizing that state parks offer more primitive camping experiences but do have some amenities. She notes the challenges of accommodating larger RVs and the trend towards smaller, more customized units. The conversation shifts to the increasing popularity of smaller RVs and custom-built units. Don confirms this trend, mentioning the customization of Sprinter vans and the conversion of old school buses into mobile tiny homes, known as “schoolies.” He notes that smaller units are easier to manage and place less demand on electricity, which is beneficial for campgrounds and state parks alike. Don also highlights the importance of providing a variety of experiences for campers, emphasizing the need to offer activities and amenities that enhance the outdoor experience. Louis showcases Nomadic Resorts’ innovative designs, including the Looper and the Seed Pod. The Looper is a modular, luxury tent that combines comfort with sustainability and mobility, designed to withstand 140 km/h winds and featuring high-quality materials for longevity. The Seed Pod is a tent suspended from trees, designed for nature reserves and environmentally sensitive areas, offering an immersive nature experience with minimal environmental impact. Louis explains that these designs aim to provide the luxury and comfort of a hotel room while maintaining a strong connection to nature. The discussion touches on the balance between providing unique, high-end accommodations and maintaining a natural camping experience. Don mentions the challenges of zoning and capital investment, especially for campgrounds open only part of the year. He highlights the need for campground owners to be creative and innovative in offering new experiences to attract and retain guests. Louis and Brian agree on the growing demand for unique accommodations and the potential for innovation in the RV and camping industry. Melissa concludes by emphasizing the spectrum of outdoor experiences available to campers and the importance of catering to different preferences. She mentions the role of public input in guiding the development of state parks and the need to adapt to changing trends in the camping industry. Melissa also highlights the importance of collaboration between public and private campgrounds to provide a diverse range of experiences for campers. The episode wraps up with Don and Louis sharing resources and contact information for their respective businesses. Don mentions Murch Tourism and Illinois Go Camping as valuable resources for finding great campgrounds. Louis highlights Nomadic Resorts’ architectural and design services, expressing his interest in continuing the conversation in future episodes. The guests thank Brian for the opportunity to share their insights and look forward to future discussions on the evolving trends in outdoor hospitality and camping.

In a recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, an insightful discussion unfolded featuring Greg Wallman, Owner and President of Space Craft; Devon Wilson, CEO and Founder of RV SnapPad; and Jeff Wertz, Product Business Manager at Spartan RV. The conversation provided a deep dive into the evolving RV and campground industries, touching on various technological advancements, market trends, and the challenges these sectors face in keeping up with rapid growth and innovation. Greg Wallman began by highlighting the importance of technological integration in RVs and campgrounds. He emphasized the growing demand for reliable Wi-Fi and electrical infrastructure to support remote work and leisure activities. Wallman noted that many of their customers now live and work full-time in their RVs, which necessitates advanced networking capabilities. This trend is pushing manufacturers to innovate and adapt quickly to meet the evolving needs of RV users. Jeff Wertz from Spartan RV echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the critical role of information technology in the RV industry. He pointed out that even families are increasingly using RVs for extended travel while maintaining their work commitments. Wertz also discussed the growing interest in electric vehicles (EVs) and the integration of lithium batteries to extend boondocking capabilities. This shift towards more sustainable and efficient power solutions is a significant focus for manufacturers and chassis providers like Spartan RV. Devon Wilson of RV SnapPad added that the market is indeed getting younger, with more people embracing the flexibility of remote work. This demographic shift is driving demand for RVs equipped with modern conveniences and smart technologies. Wilson also shared his company’s experience with artificial intelligence (AI), particularly in customer service. He described how RV SnapPad is leveraging AI to handle standard queries and improve customer interactions, though they remain cautious about over-reliance on technology, ensuring the human element remains a core part of their service. The conversation delved into specific innovations in RV design, with Wallman sharing some cutting-edge developments. He mentioned water makers that extract water from the air, advanced blackwater processing systems, and recycling showers designed for long-term sustainability. These innovations are particularly beneficial for boondocking, allowing RV users to stay off-grid for extended periods without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Jeff Wertz elaborated on the role of Spartan RV in supporting these technological advancements. He explained how the company is involved in integrating larger alternators and advanced power systems to support the increased electrical demands of modern RVs. Wertz also touched on the potential future integration of electric vehicle technology into RVs, noting the challenges and opportunities this presents, especially in balancing the need for large water tanks and other amenities with the space and weight constraints of EVs. Brian Searl, the host, steered the conversation towards future-proofing campgrounds. He inquired about the steps campground owners could take to stay ahead of the curve. Wallman and Wertz both agreed that investing in robust electrical infrastructure and reliable information technology is crucial. They emphasized that campers increasingly expect high-quality internet access and ample power for their devices, making these elements essential for attracting and retaining customers. The discussion also touched on the potential impact of AI and robotics on the RV and campground industries. Searl posed a thought-provoking question about the hypothetical scenario of employing robots if they could perform tasks perfectly tailored to the business’s needs. Wallman and Wertz were open to the idea but highlighted the importance of validating the capabilities of such technology. Wilson, on the other hand, expressed a degree of skepticism, citing trust issues and the need to balance technological advancements with maintaining a personal touch in customer service. Greg Wallman shared some fascinating insights into the custom RV manufacturing process. He described how Space Craft receives unique customer requests that often push the boundaries of current technology. Wallman noted that while some ideas are not yet feasible, the company enjoys the challenge of finding innovative solutions and has had several “aha” moments where they were able to implement groundbreaking features that customers had not initially considered. Devon Wilson concluded by reflecting on the rapid pace of technological growth and its implications for the RV industry. He mentioned that RV SnapPad is continually exploring new technologies to enhance their products and services. However, Wilson stressed the importance of not overcommitting to unproven technologies and ensuring that any new implementations genuinely add value to the customer experience. Overall, the episode provided a comprehensive overview of the current state and future direction of the RV and campground industries. The insights from Greg Wallman, Devon Wilson, and Jeff Wertz highlighted the importance of staying adaptable, embracing technological advancements, and always considering the evolving needs of the customer. As the industry continues to innovate, it is clear that those who can effectively integrate new technologies while maintaining a high level of customer service will be best positioned for success.

In the recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, guest host Scott Knepp fills in for regular host Brian Searl. Scott is joined by esteemed colleagues in the RV and outdoor hospitality industry: Greg Emmert, Senior Strategist at Camp Strategy; Jon Adams, owner of Sandusky Milan RV Park; and Steven Kramer, founder of Campground Support. Scott kicks off the episode by thanking Brian Searl for taking a well-deserved vacation and sets the tone for a fun and informative discussion with the guests. Greg Emmert opens the conversation, jokingly acknowledging Scott as a smarter and better-looking version of Brian. Greg expresses excitement about the upcoming discussion with Jon Adams and Steven Kramer. Scott introduces Jon Adams, owner of Sandusky Milan RV Park, and Steven Kramer, who manages a campground and founded Campground Support, a company providing remote support for campgrounds. Both guests share their backgrounds and express enthusiasm for the conversation. Scott initiates a discussion on mobile applications that have proven beneficial in campground management. Greg shares his experience with the OnX app, which he uses for hunting and identifying property boundaries, and the Merlin Bird ID app, which uses AI to identify bird songs. Steven introduces ClickUp, a productivity app he uses to manage tasks and schedules efficiently. Jon emphasizes the importance of clean restrooms in attracting and retaining guests at his park. He shares how investing in clean and well-maintained facilities has been a key factor in the success of Sandusky Milan RV Park. Greg and Steven echo this sentiment, highlighting that clean restrooms are crucial in the hospitality industry. Scott asks Jon about managing and prioritizing various projects at his park. Jon explains how he addresses existing infrastructure issues first and plans projects during the off-season to avoid disruptions. He shares his approach to budgeting and making improvements that enhance guest satisfaction. The conversation shifts to common challenges in campground management, particularly staffing and managing guest expectations. Steven discusses how Campground Support helps address these challenges by providing remote support for phone calls and reservations, allowing campground staff to focus on on-site tasks. Greg introduces the concept of revenue management and dynamic pricing, emphasizing the importance of adjusting rates based on demand and occupancy levels. Jon and Steven share their experiences with dynamic pricing and how it has helped increase revenue and optimize occupancy at their respective parks. As Memorial Day approaches, the guests discuss their preparations for the peak season. Jon talks about organizing events like food trucks, cornhole, and karaoke to enhance the guest experience. Steven mentions the importance of having adequate staffing and addressing any technical challenges to ensure a smooth operation during the busy season. The episode concludes with each guest sharing what they are excited about in the near future. Scott looks forward to a family cruise and celebrating a 10/10/10 Good Sam rating for a property in Alabama. Greg is eager to go birdwatching, taking advantage of the peak migration season. Steven and his wife are excited about their upcoming vacation, while Jon is preparing to celebrate his 10th wedding anniversary. Scott wraps up the episode by thanking the guests for their insights and contributions. He invites listeners to stay tuned for more episodes of MC Fireside Chats, promising more valuable discussions on outdoor hospitality and campground management. The episode ends with a reminder to email show suggestions and to visit Modern Campground for the latest industry news.

In the recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, sponsored by Horizon Outdoor Hospitality, Mike Harrison stepped in as the guest host. The episode, which focused on glamping, featured discussions with Zach Stoltenberg, Valerie Pifer, Karey McDowell, Peter Rodriguez, and Matt Bragstad. Zach Stoltenberg, from Clockwork emphasizes their role as a one-stop shop for developing outdoor hospitality sites from land acquisition to opening. Peter Rodriguez, president of ekō Solutions LLC, talks about his modular building company in North Alabama, which converts shipping containers into various structures for glamping sites and more. Valerie and Karey represent Progress Park Airstream Resort and Event Center in Louisville, Kentucky. They discuss their mix of glamping and event hosting, including their approach to the Kentucky Derby week, which attracts visitors for a multi-day experience involving local attractions and events. Matt Bragstad Founder and CEO of Your Glamping Adventure passionately talks about his venture into glamping with his wife and friends. They have developed two properties focused on providing a luxurious outdoor experience, emphasizing the rapid growth and success of their business. The guests discuss various challenges and innovations in outdoor hospitality. Matt and Peter share insights on zoning and regulatory hurdles, while Valerie and Karey discuss community engagement and the importance of aligning with local expectations and regulations. Attention to details like guest amenities, including pet-friendly options and wellness activities, is highlighted as essential for enhancing the guest experience. Matt and Peter elaborate on the importance of integrating local services and attractions to enrich the stay. Zach discusses the evolving definitions of glamping and the broad spectrum of accommodations it can encompass, from luxury tents to converted shipping containers. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on guest experience over mere accommodation. Future plans for the guests’ businesses include expanding their offerings and continuing to innovate in creating memorable experiences for visitors. They discuss the potential for new amenities like outdoor kitchens, communal dining areas, and wellness facilities. The conversation wraps up with reflections on the uniqueness of each glamping site and the personalized experiences they offer, which distinguishes them from traditional hotels and other hospitality offerings. The discussion underscores the dynamic and rapidly evolving nature of the glamping industry.

In the recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, guest host Cara Csizmadia, who is also the president of the Canadian Camping and RVs Association and a former co-host of the show, returns to lead a dynamic discussion. The episode, recorded on May 1, 2024, coincides with the opening day for many campgrounds, adding a festive note to the discussion despite some areas facing challenging weather conditions. Cara opens the episode with a warm welcome and shares her enthusiasm for returning to the show. She introduces the recurring guests: Jeff Hoffman, Scott Bahr, Christine Taylor, and Sandy Ellingson, each an expert in their respective fields within the outdoor hospitality industry. Scott Bahr of Camp Consulting Group, who has over two decades of experience in market research within the industry, discusses the recent trends he has observed. He notes that last year’s disruptions, particularly adverse weather, significantly impacted campground bookings. Scott anticipates a growing trend toward more spontaneous travel among campers, driven by a shift in consumer behavior that favors flexibility and short-notice travel plans. Jeff Hoffman from Camp Strategy talks about the operational and financial aspects of running campgrounds. He highlights a shift back to pre-COVID booking windows, which have narrowed significantly compared to the extended booking periods seen during the pandemic. Jeff reassures campground owners that despite a slower booking pace, the industry remains healthy, and there has been little resistance to recent price increases, suggesting that consumers have adjusted to the new pricing norms. Christine Taylor, who brings a legal perspective from her extensive experience in the camping industry, discusses the crucial role of legal support in managing a campground. She stresses the importance of having robust legal advice to navigate the complex landscape of outdoor hospitality, touching on issues like business fraud and the essential nature of legal services in preventive practices. Sandy Ellingson, enriches the discussion with her insights into dynamic pricing strategies. She explains the financial benefits of minor rate increases and the impact of adaptive cancellation policies on consumer booking behaviors. Sandy’s expertise highlights how slight adjustments in pricing and policies can significantly enhance revenue without alienating guests. Throughout the episode, the conversation delves into innovative solutions being implemented by campgrounds to adapt to changing consumer expectations. This includes flexible cancellation policies and creative approaches to managing long-term stays to avoid legal and operational complications. The panelists discuss the balance between being open to guests and managing the business aspects efficiently to maintain profitability and guest satisfaction. The episode wraps up with Cara thanking the guests for their insights and reflecting on the vibrant discussion that covered both the opportunities and challenges facing the outdoor hospitality industry today. The blend of expert opinions provides a comprehensive overview of the strategies that campground owners can employ to navigate the current market dynamics and legal landscape, ensuring the continued success of their businesses. This rich conversation not only addresses the immediate concerns related to the opening day of the season but also broader trends that could influence the future of camping and outdoor hospitality.

In the recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, host Brian Searl led a comprehensive discussion with prominent figures in the RV and outdoor hospitality industry. The conversation covered a wide range of topics that are currently shaping the future of RVing. Key industry leaders including David Ramsay and Brian Fuente, who represent innovative RV companies, shared their insights on market expansion and the pivotal role of technology in evolving RV designs. Their companies focus on making RVs more accessible and appealing to a broader audience, which includes a significant increase in first-time RV owners who are attracted by user-friendly and technologically advanced features. Phil Ingrassia and Shane Devenish offered perspectives on broader industry trends, such as the need for simpler, more intuitive RV technologies that can accommodate an increasingly diverse consumer base. They discussed how the industry is adapting to meet these demands through both product development and enhanced customer service strategies. Eleonore Hamm contributed to the discussion by highlighting the importance of advocacy and educational initiatives in Canada, which aim to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of RVing, particularly emphasizing how technologies like Starlink can transform RVing experiences in remote areas. Susan Carpenter spoke about the notable rise in solo female travelers in the RV sector, pointing out that vehicle designs are becoming more inclusive, reducing barriers to entry and making RVing less intimidating for newcomers. The conversation also featured a significant focus on the transformative impact of Starlink’s satellite internet service, with both Ramsay and Fuente explaining how it has revolutionized the connectivity options available to RVers. This innovation has not only enhanced the appeal of off-grid RVing but has also expanded the possibilities for where RVs can travel without losing touch with digital necessities. The dialogue delved into how these advancements are influencing consumer behaviors and expectations, with RV manufacturers increasingly integrating features that promote a blend of comfort, convenience, and connectivity. This shift is not just about accommodating the needs of traditional RV users but also about attracting new demographics who view RVs as viable options for remote work and extended travel. Overall, this episode of MC Fireside Chats provided a rich tapestry of insights that illustrate the dynamic changes occurring in the RV industry. It underscored the industry’s responsiveness to consumer demands and technological advancements, highlighting a promising future for outdoor hospitality. The collective expertise of the speakers painted a picture of an industry at an exciting crossroads, with technology and customer-centric designs driving growth and expanding the horizons of traditional RVing.

In the latest episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, a dynamic conversation unfolded featuring insights from leaders in the outdoor hospitality industry. The session began with Brian introducing the context for the discussion, emphasizing the series’ dedication to exploring real-world experiences and strategies from campground owners and industry experts. Richard Chandler, a seasoned campground owner, shared his unique approach to business, focusing on community engagement over immediate profit. He elaborated on hosting a significant annual music festival that, while not particularly profitable, greatly enhanced community ties and visibility for his campground. Richard’s strategy revolves around providing value and enrichment to the campground experience, which he believes will pay off in the long run in terms of loyalty and reputation. Craig Alsup contributed to the conversation by discussing the transformations he has implemented at his campground. Having purchased a previously failing campground, Craig turned the business around through strategic improvements and active marketing. His efforts have resulted in increased occupancy and revenue, highlighting the potential for success with the right strategies and execution. Bobby Sorden introduced the platform Supplier Spot, designed to connect campground owners with suppliers and facilitate resource trading. This platform serves as a critical tool for improving operational efficiencies and fostering industry connections, demonstrating a significant leap towards modernizing campground operations. Candace McNamara from Staylist provided an overview of the technological advancements available to campground owners. She discussed how their platform could help streamline operations, from reservations to point-of-sale systems, and emphasized the importance of adopting technology to enhance guest experiences and operational efficiency. Greg Emmert, co-founder at Camp Strategy, offered consultancy insights, focusing on the potential for campgrounds to increase revenue by leveraging underutilized assets. Greg’s advice centered on custom solutions that address the specific needs and potential of each campground, advocating for a tailored approach to business improvements. Throughout the discussion, the speakers shared personal anecdotes and strategies, enriching the conversation with practical advice and real-life examples. The importance of community-focused activities was a recurring theme, with Richard detailing his approach to hosting events that, while not immediately profitable, build long-term value for guests and the broader community. Marketing strategies were also a focal point, with Craig discussing how targeted advertising and community engagement helped fill his sites. Bobby’s platform, Supplier Spot, was highlighted as a valuable resource for finding and utilizing suppliers effectively, illustrating the benefits of networked solutions in the industry. Technology’s role in modernizing campground operations was emphasized by Candace, who pointed out the various ways campground owners can integrate systems to enhance efficiency and guest satisfaction. Greg supported this by detailing how consulting can help identify profitable improvements that align with a campground’s unique characteristics and market position. The episode wrapped up with a broader discussion on the financial aspects of running a campground, with Richard candidly sharing his financial strategies and future goals. The conversation also touched on innovative ideas like selling back solar energy, showcasing the diverse and evolving nature of campground management challenges and solutions.

In the recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, host Brian Searl brought together a panel of outdoor hospitality experts to delve into the innovations shaping the glamping industry. Brian was joined by recurring guests Zach Stoltenberg, Todd Wynne-Parry, Angele Miller, Chris Jeub, Alessandro van de Loo, and special guests Jeremy Budge and Gene Eidelman, each offering unique perspectives on the challenges and opportunities within the sector. Zach Stoltenberg, representing Clockwork, shared insights on the architectural challenges and innovations in designing glamping resorts. His focus on guest experience and the business perspective highlighted the importance of balance in creating unique yet practical glamping accommodations. Todd Wynne-Parry, from Horwath HTL, discussed the broader implications of hotel brands entering the glamping market. His analysis of the Hilton-AutoCamp partnership shed light on the evolving landscape of outdoor hospitality, where traditional hotel brands see value in the unique offerings of glamping. Angele Miller introduced Creekside R&R glamping, emphasizing the franchise model’s potential to standardize and elevate the glamping experience while respecting local cultures and designs. Her concerns about adapting structures to various climates and terrains underscored the industry’s need for versatile and resilient accommodations. Chris Jeub, owner of Monument Glamping, touched on the creative challenges faced by glamping developers in navigating zoning and building departments. His experiences underscore the industry’s ongoing struggle with regulatory frameworks and the need for innovative solutions that comply with local codes. Alessandro van de Loo shared his experiences operating glamping resorts in Europe, highlighting the potential for 3D printed accommodations to revolutionize the industry by offering scalable, eco-friendly, and customizable options for resort developers. Jeremy Budge, the founder of Backland, a luxury eco-resort in Arizona, detailed the development of custom-designed, code-compliant tents. His journey from Under Canvas to establishing his own resort illustrated the innovative spirit driving the glamping industry forward. Gene Eidelman presented Azure Printed Homes, a company specializing in 3D printed structures using recycled plastic. His vision for sustainable, efficient, and customizable construction offers a promising solution to the glamping industry’s demand for unique and environmentally friendly accommodations. The discussion also ventured into the regulatory challenges of introducing novel concepts like 3D printed homes and custom tents into the market. Both Jeremy Budge and Gene Eidelman shared their experiences navigating the complexities of building codes and permits, underscoring the need for regulatory flexibility to accommodate innovation. The panelists explored the cost implications of such innovations, particularly the expenses associated with testing and compliance. The conversation highlighted the financial hurdles of pioneering new construction methods and the potential for scale to mitigate these challenges. Angele Miller’s concerns about adapting glamping units to extreme climates, such as those in Atlantic Canada, pointed to the necessity of designing accommodations that can withstand a wide range of environmental conditions while preventing issues like condensation. The potential for 3D printing technology to provide customized solutions for diverse glamping locations was a recurring theme. The ability to tailor accommodations to specific sites and climates could revolutionize the way glamping resorts are developed, offering an unprecedented level of flexibility and customization. In closing, the episode underscored the glamping industry’s role as a crucible for construction and hospitality innovation. By embracing new technologies and designs, the sector can offer unique, sustainable, and memorable experiences, setting a new standard for outdoor hospitality and potentially influencing broader construction practices.

In a dynamic episode of MC Fireside Chats, host Brian Searl led a rich discussion featuring industry experts Mike Harrison, Scott Bahr, Jeff Hoffman, and Mark Koep, who collectively dissect the evolving landscape of outdoor hospitality. The episode begins on a lighter note, with Searl and his guests sharing their personal anecdotes, setting the stage for an engaging dialogue that delves deep into industry trends, challenges, and strategies for success. Brian Searl, the anchor of the conversation, guides the dialogue with precision, touching on a wide array of subjects, from the impact of technological advancements on the camping industry to the intricacies of consumer behavior in a post-pandemic world. His insightful questions and commentary knit the diverse topics into a coherent narrative that offers a panoramic view of the sector. Mike Harrison brings to the table his operational expertise, discussing the practical challenges and opportunities parks face in real-time. He provides a nuanced analysis of how occupancy rates, advanced booking patterns, and revenue management practices are adapting to new market realities. Harrison’s perspective is particularly valuable in understanding the operational shifts necessitated by fluctuating demand and the adoption of new technologies. Scott Bahr, with his deep dive into data and analytics, sheds light on the latest industry reports and the significance of sustainable practices. His discussion on the importance of data in driving decisions and understanding consumer trends is eye-opening. Bahr emphasizes the need for parks to leverage data more effectively to navigate the complexities of the market and to tailor their services to meet the evolving expectations of their guests. Jeff Hoffman offers insights into the strategic aspects of park management and marketing. He stresses the importance of parks modernizing their facilities and operations to enhance the guest experience. Hoffman’s discussion on the use of technology to streamline operations and engage with guests more effectively highlights the critical role of innovation in maintaining competitiveness. Mark Koep focuses on the marketing strategies that parks can employ to attract and retain guests. He delves into the importance of understanding the customer journey and utilizing digital marketing tools to reach potential guests. Koep’s expertise in online marketing and customer engagement provides a roadmap for parks looking to enhance their visibility and appeal in a crowded marketplace. Throughout the episode, the conversation seamlessly transitions from operational challenges to marketing strategies, economic impacts, and the future of outdoor hospitality. The discussion on the mini-recession, rising gas prices, and their implications on consumer travel habits offers a sobering look at the challenges ahead. However, the panelists also highlight the resilience of the industry and the potential for innovation and adaptability to drive growth. The episode concludes with a forward-looking discussion on the importance of parks embracing change, modernizing their operations, and investing in marketing to thrive in an increasingly competitive environment.