Episodes

In the recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, Brian Searl warmly welcomed everyone to another episode, highlighting the theme of data insights and analysis, a core focus for their 2025 discussions. With a touch of humor, he acknowledged the self-explanatory nature of the show’s title, playfully teasing Scott Bahr about the redundancy. He then introduced the returning guest, Simon Neal from Camp Map, and special guests Emily Simmons, President of CONY, and Michael Moore, who wears numerous hats, including those at TACO and AGS, and is now also the President of CAMP. Before diving into the data, a lighthearted exchange ensued about Michael’s sports memorabilia, specifically a jersey, and whether it needed updating given the player’s current status, a conversation that briefly touched on the topic of inflation and its impact on investments. Michael Moore then provided a comprehensive introduction to his various roles, starting with the Texas Association of Campground Owners, affectionately known as TACO, the largest state campground association in the country, boasting nearly 450 member campgrounds. He outlined the association’s diverse range of activities, including lobbying, legislative work, legal support, marketing, and the provision of numerous discount and savings programs. Shifting gears, he spoke about AGS, a company that markets and produces guest guides for campgrounds across almost all 50 states, detailing their work in printing, collateral, and digital marketing. Finally, he touched on his recent election as President of CAMP, an organization that facilitates information sharing and collaboration among state and regional campground associations. Emily Simmons followed, introducing herself as the President of CONY, celebrating her upcoming two-year anniversary in the role. She echoed Michael’s description of association benefits, emphasizing advocacy, education, and cost savings programs, and highlighted the recent successful launch of their virtual conference, “Fire Up Forum,” which was designed to address member feedback and provide accessible, ongoing educational resources. She also noted their membership numbers, currently approaching 200, and their strategic focus on attracting Canadian visitors, given their proximity to the border. The conversation then transitioned to a detailed discussion of data trends, with Simon Neal sharing a presentation from PIN Camp, a major European marketplace for outdoor hospitality. He emphasized the increasing prevalence of online bookings across all age groups, even among those over 70, highlighting the importance of digital accessibility for campgrounds. He then delved into booking behavior, comparing trends from the previous year to the current one, revealing a growing price sensitivity among consumers, with a noticeable shift towards cheaper destinations and shorter stays. This led to a broader discussion about the impact of rising prices on consumer decisions, with contributions from Scott Bahr, Michael Moore, and Emily Simmons, who all shared insights into how these trends were playing out in the US and Canada. Scott Bahr provided additional context, noting that while online booking preferences were generally higher in the US, the trend of older age groups embracing online bookings was consistent across both regions. He also discussed the contrasting data on RV registrations, which were declining in the US but growing in Germany, as highlighted by Simon Neal. The speakers then explored the implications of these trends for campground operators, discussing the need to adapt pricing strategies, enhance value propositions, and focus on customer loyalty. They also touched on the broader economic and political uncertainties influencing consumer behavior, emphasizing the importance of scenario planning and data-driven decision-making. The conversation then shifted to a discussion of association activities, with Emily Simmons detailing CONY’s successful virtual conference, “Fire Up Forum,” and Michael Moore outlining TACO’s upcoming conference and legislative priorities. They both emphasized the importance of providing ongoing education and support to their members, recognizing the diverse needs and challenges faced by campground operators. Michael Moore also discussed his role as President of CAMP, highlighting the organization’s efforts to facilitate collaboration and information sharing among state and regional campground associations, and their upcoming meeting in Washington DC to address key industry issues, including tariffs. Finally, the speakers shared their key data insights and trends for 2025. Simon Neal emphasized the importance of digital bookability and showcasing value propositions, Emily Simmons stressed the significance of consumer sentiment, cost awareness, and clear communication of offerings, Michael Moore advised promoting to existing guests and leveraging data on consumer spending in local communities, and Scott Bahr pointed out the trend of campers staying closer to home, emphasizing the need for local marketing efforts. Brian Searl concluded the discussion by reiterating the importance of paying attention to shifting consumer behaviors and leveraging available data to inform strategic planning.

The March 5, 2025, episode of MC Fireside Chats featured an insightful discussion on key industry trends and challenges, with host Brian Searl joined by recurring guests and new participants. The panel included Miguel Huerta from the Mexican Glamping Association, Simon Neal from Camp Map, Rafael Correa from Blue Water, Matt Whitermore an Outdoor Hospitality Professional, Shari Heilala from Sage Outdoor Hospitality, and Mark Koep, among others. The conversation revolved around the impact of major events, shifting travel patterns, and data-driven strategies for success in the outdoor hospitality industry. Miguel Huerta highlighted the significance of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted across Mexico, Canada, and the U.S., emphasizing the immense potential for campgrounds, glamping sites, and RV parks to capitalize on the surge in tourism. He noted the high demand for alternative accommodations as hotel prices skyrocket, advising operators to begin preparations now. Rafael Correa weighed in on pricing strategies, warning against excessive rate hikes that could deter future guests, and stressed the importance of maintaining value propositions. Simon Neal, offering a European perspective, pointed out that demand for World Cup accommodations will come in waves—early planners booking far in advance and last-minute travelers willing to pay a premium. He emphasized the need for campgrounds to be flexible and ready to accommodate a range of visitors. Rafael added that major events create displacement effects, meaning people who might otherwise visit certain areas could be looking for alternative travel experiences, further benefiting the outdoor hospitality sector. The conversation then shifted to the broader state of the industry. Rafael shared insights from Blue Water’s portfolio, noting a rise in long-term stays, a decline in transient RV bookings, and continued strong demand for vacation rentals and glamping. He attributed the shrinking booking window to guests becoming more accustomed to dynamic pricing and greater availability in the post-pandemic landscape. Shari Heilala supported these observations, highlighting the importance of data in making informed pricing and marketing decisions. A key discussion point was the growing role of long-term stays, not just among full-time RVers but also as a solution to housing affordability issues. Shari pointed out that many people are opting for RV living due to rising housing costs, particularly in regions like Phoenix, where renting a travel trailer is a cost-effective alternative. Brian challenged the assumption that RV owners struggle with housing affordability, but the panelists clarified that many individuals are choosing RV life as a primary living arrangement rather than a leisure activity. Simon Neal provided a European perspective, explaining that while long-term stays are not a major factor in Europe, seasonal migration from northern to southern regions remains strong. However, uncertainty in the market has made travelers more hesitant to book in advance. Mark Koep added that demand for long-term RV stays is particularly high in areas with significant industrial and economic development, such as Texas and Arizona, where workers need flexible, short-term housing solutions. Concerns over international travel trends were also raised, with Miguel revealing that searches for flights from Mexico to the U.S. had dropped by 10%. Similar declines were observed in Canadian cross-border travel, attributed to economic conditions and geopolitical tensions. However, Simon remained optimistic that people will still prioritize travel, even if their habits shift toward regional destinations. Shari emphasized the importance of data-driven decision-making, noting that while past data is helpful, predicting future trends remains challenging due to economic uncertainty and external factors such as inflation and potential national park closures. She recommended operators take a conservative approach while exploring new revenue streams to mitigate risks. The panel also discussed evolving guest expectations, particularly in the glamping sector. Shari revealed that the number of professionally managed glamping units had grown by 11% year over year, with continued rate increases. Matt highlighted the importance of creating unique, experience-driven offerings that differentiate properties from traditional hotels and short-term rentals. Rafael reinforced this idea, noting that the hospitality industry’s competitive advantage lies in fostering community and providing exceptional experiences that hotels and Airbnbs cannot replicate. Wrapping up, panelists shared insights into their respective companies. Rafael introduced Blue Water Hospitality’s management and development services, Matt talked about his new podcast Good Morning Outdoors, and Miguel invited listeners to explore the Mexican Glamping Association’s work. Shari announced the launch of Sage Outdoor Advisory’s glamping data reports, while Simon detailed Camp Map’s innovative digital mapping solutions, now integrated with KOA’s booking platform. The discussion underscored the industry’s need to adapt to changing travel behaviors, leverage data for strategic decision-making, and focus on guest experience to drive long-term success. The episode concluded with Brian teasing the next installment of Outwired, promising an in-depth discussion on humanoid robots, RVIA findings, and emerging trends in outdoor hospitality.

In the February 5th episode of MC Fireside Chats, host Brian Searl welcomed recurring guests Mark Koep, Founder of Campground Views, and Scott Bahr, Principal of Cairn Consulting Group. The special guest for the episode was Angie Whitcomb, President and CEO of Hospitality Minnesota, marking the show’s first episode under its revamped format. Brian kicked off the discussion with lighthearted remarks about his studio setup before diving into key industry topics. Brian introduced Angie Whitcomb, clarifying her name after a humorous mix-up in his notes. Angie provided an overview of Hospitality Minnesota, a statewide association representing over 3,500 members across restaurants, hotels, resorts, and campgrounds. She shared that the organization was formed through a merger of three separate associations just before the COVID-19 pandemic, which shifted their focus from growth to crisis management. Angie emphasized the association’s advocacy efforts, supporting businesses of all sizes with resources and legislative representation. Mark Koep discussed the current state of the camping industry as it transitions into what he termed a “normal” year following the disruptions caused by COVID-19 and the U.S. election cycle. He noted that many park owners who entered the industry during the pandemic boom are now realizing that attracting guests requires consistent marketing efforts. The industry, he explained, is moving away from the automatic high demand seen during the pandemic and facing a more competitive environment. Scott Bahr provided insights from his ongoing research for the upcoming Outdoor Hospitality Report, scheduled for release later in the spring. He noted that while some traditional outdoor activities are waning, new trends are emerging. Scott compared the post-COVID landscape to a natural disaster recovery, where old structures are cleared, making room for new growth. He highlighted the rising popularity of car camping and the associated products, such as rooftop tents and vehicle-attached shelters, which are reshaping outdoor travel behaviors. The discussion shifted to economic conditions affecting the hospitality industry. Angie highlighted Minnesota’s unique challenges, including aggressive minimum wage laws, the absence of a tip credit, and a persistent labor shortage affecting hospitality businesses. Despite reports of increased revenues, many businesses are struggling with profitability due to rising operational costs. Angie stressed that inflation, wage mandates, and workforce shortages are creating financial pressures for both large and small hospitality businesses. Brian and Mark discussed how economic shifts are influencing consumer behavior. Angie pointed out that travelers are becoming more selective, seeking greater value and unique experiences for their money. This trend is evident across campgrounds, hotels, and restaurants, where guests are looking for personalized, memorable experiences rather than just standard amenities. She shared examples from Minnesota, where businesses that focus on exceptional customer service and meaningful guest interactions are outperforming competitors. The conversation explored how technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), is transforming the industry. Brian and Mark emphasized that AI can help campground owners analyze customer data, predict trends, and enhance marketing strategies. Mark suggested that campground operators should actively seek feedback from guests to understand why they choose specific destinations, as this information can inform marketing and service improvements. They discussed how AI tools can simplify this process, making advanced data analysis accessible to small business owners. Angie, Brian, and Mark delved into the broader implications of AI and technological advancements, not just for business operations but also for education and workforce development. Angie expressed concerns about the traditional education system’s ability to prepare students for the rapidly changing job market. Brian highlighted the importance of critical thinking and adaptability, suggesting that future success will depend on individuals’ ability to learn and pivot quickly in response to technological advancements. Toward the end of the episode, Brian posed a thought-provoking question: if business owners could make one change to stand out in 2025, what should it be? Angie responded that the key is not a specific amenity but the intangible element of genuine hospitality. She emphasized that personalized service, emotional connections, and memorable guest experiences are what truly set businesses apart. Mark agreed, adding that understanding guest motivations and adapting to their evolving needs is essential for long-term success. The episode wrapped up with reflections on how the outdoor hospitality industry must adapt to shifting economic conditions, technological changes, and evolving consumer preferences. The conversation underscored the importance of data-driven decision-making, personalized guest experiences, and continuous learning to stay competitive in a rapidly transforming landscape. This episode offers valuable insights for campground owners, hospitality professionals, and industry stakeholders navigating the future of outdoor recreation and hospitality.

The December 4, 2024, episode of MC Fireside Chats explored the challenges and opportunities facing the outdoor hospitality industry as it prepares for 2025. Hosted by Brian Searl, the episode featured insights from Scott Bahr, Sandy Ellingson, and Mike Harrison, who collectively emphasized the importance of adapting to shifting consumer behaviors and market conditions. The conversation highlighted key trends, including the decline of traditional camping formats and the growing popularity of alternatives such as glamping and car camping. These shifts underscore the need for campground operators to rethink their strategies and embrace innovation. Scott Bahr opened the discussion with a deep dive into the data, revealing a consistent decline in traditional RVing and camping interest over the past two years. While some markets remain stable, the overall outlook for 2025 suggests a continued downturn. Bahr highlighted how economic factors such as inflation and interest rates, combined with an oversupply of parks, have amplified the challenges. He urged park owners to analyze consumer trends closely and adapt their offerings to align with changing preferences. Mike Harrison provided additional insights into the economic pressures facing the industry. He pointed out that developers and operators who overpaid for properties during the pandemic-driven boom are now grappling with underperformance. Harrison stressed the importance of realism and adaptability, particularly for operators looking to succeed in a more competitive and cost-conscious environment. He advocated for a focus on long-term stays and building partnerships with niche markets, such as traveling professionals and seasonal workers, to ensure stable revenue streams. The conversation also explored how marketing practices must evolve. Harrison and Searl both emphasized the need to leverage technology, including AI, SEO, and social media, to reach broader audiences. However, they noted that traditional strategies, such as Google Ads, are losing relevance as consumer behavior shifts toward more sophisticated, AI-driven search tools. Searl warned that operators must prepare for a rapidly changing digital landscape where visibility will depend on enhanced online presence and targeted messaging. Sandy Ellingson highlighted the need for inclusivity and accessibility in the industry. She stressed that attracting younger generations and first-time campers requires rethinking the entry points into outdoor hospitality. Ellingson pointed out that many parks have eliminated tent camping in favor of higher-revenue RV sites, which may exclude potential new campers. She encouraged operators to embrace emerging trends like car camping and package experiences to draw in diverse demographics, particularly Gen Z, who seek authentic and community-oriented experiences. Another key theme was the role of technology in driving efficiency and enhancing guest experiences. Ellingson noted that while larger resorts are already utilizing advanced tools, smaller mom-and-pop parks lag behind. She urged operators to invest in solutions that streamline operations, improve booking processes, and create memorable guest experiences. These innovations, she argued, are crucial for staying competitive in an increasingly sophisticated market. The group also addressed the need for campground operators to focus on experiential offerings. As consumers prioritize experiences over traditional camping, operators must create multifaceted revenue streams. Examples included food and beverage services, guided outdoor activities, and immersive amenities that add value to a guest’s stay. This shift could also help parks generate loyalty, as guests are more likely to return when they feel they are receiving a comprehensive experience. Bahr and Harrison acknowledged the resistance to change among some operators, particularly smaller park owners. This reluctance to adopt modern practices, such as embracing alternative camping styles or implementing dynamic pricing, could hinder long-term success. They all agreed that education and collaboration across the industry are necessary to bridge this gap and help operators understand the benefits of innovation. The episode concluded with a forward-looking discussion on the transformative potential of AI in the industry. Searl predicted that AI would redefine how guests discover and book outdoor experiences, enabling smarter decision-making and more efficient operations. However, he also cautioned that operators who fail to adapt quickly risk falling behind in a fast-moving market. Ultimately, the episode served as a call to action for the outdoor hospitality industry. They encouraged operators to approach 2025 with a mindset of flexibility and innovation, leveraging data and technology to meet evolving consumer needs. By doing so, they can position themselves not just to survive but to thrive in a rapidly changing market.

In this episode of MC Fireside Chats, host Brian Searl led a live discussion from the Outdoor Hospitality Conference and Expo (OHCE) with several prominent voices in the industry, including Scott Knepp, Greg Emmert, Melissa Cummings, Ashley Migliaccio, David Basler, Steven Marks, and Hugh Mickel. The session provided a space for these industry experts to share insights on networking, business strategies, and innovations in outdoor hospitality. Brian began the discussion by emphasizing the expo’s value as a platform for campground owners to connect with vendors and gain insights. Scott Knepp, Director of Growth and Development at CRR Hospitality, noted the familiar faces he saw each year, describing OHCE as a “homecoming” that deepened industry connections. For him, the conference was an opportunity to discuss strategies and challenges with a supportive community. Greg Emmert, co-founder of Camp Strategy, observed that this year’s focus on experiential offerings marked a shift in the industry. More owners and operators were looking to create unique guest experiences rather than simply providing basic amenities. He saw this as a powerful way to differentiate parks and noted that the trend was gaining momentum among attendees. David Basler, Chief Strategy Officer at OHI, shared strategic changes to OHCE, including adjustments to the expo layout. The new structure allowed attendees to transition between educational sessions and the expo floor, reducing the pressure to rush and facilitating more in-depth conversations. He also highlighted the Hosted Buyer Program, which provided campground owners with focused one-on-one time to explore relevant products and services. Ashley Migliaccio, a third-generation campground owner from Connecticut, spoke about the friendships and professional connections she built at OHCE, which she credited with improving her business practices. This year, she focused on finding fiber optic internet solutions for her campground to accommodate guests working remotely. Ashley found the expo to be invaluable for learning about new solutions tailored to her specific needs. Melissa Cummings, representing Camp Riverview and Silverthread Base Camp, discussed the educational sessions she attended, which provided practical tips for profitability and cost-saving measures. While she usually approached the expo with a set agenda, this year she explored without a fixed plan, discovering new solutions like Steven Marks’ menu design advice that she felt would benefit her campgrounds directly. Steven Marks from Ideal One, a point-of-sale software company, highlighted the expo’s open layout, which encouraged spontaneous networking and genuine connections. He explained that while his company traditionally focused on family entertainment, they saw exciting possibilities in campgrounds and valued OHCE for helping them understand campground operators’ unique needs. Hugh Mickel, a civil engineer specializing in wastewater treatment, provided insight into the challenges campground owners face in managing waste. Representing Infiltrator, he shared how his company’s solutions could help campgrounds meet these needs sustainably. Hugh saw OHCE as an opportunity to educate owners about sustainable waste management options, especially as many parks expand their operations. David elaborated on OHI’s approach to planning OHCE, noting that planning for future events began almost immediately after the current expo wrapped up. He shared that OHI aimed to create a balanced experience that included learning, networking, and social activities, all of which contributed to a welcoming atmosphere where attendees felt comfortable sharing ideas. Brian then asked the panel what they would take back to their businesses. Ashley shared that she planned to implement ideas from her own session on creating sensory-friendly spaces, inspired by the enthusiastic response. Her session focused on making campgrounds more inclusive by accommodating guests with sensory sensitivities. Melissa expressed her commitment to follow up with the new connections she made at the expo, emphasizing the importance of consistent communication with vendors. She planned to share her insights with her team and incorporate improvements immediately. Steven echoed this sentiment, underscoring his goal to promptly fulfill commitments he made to campground owners during the expo. Scott highlighted that CRR Hospitality would work on applying broader industry insights gained at OHCE to expand their service offerings. He felt inspired to increase CRR’s engagement with industry associations, not only to benefit his business but to contribute to the outdoor hospitality community. Greg emphasized the importance of maintaining the post-conference momentum and staying connected with new contacts. He acknowledged that events like OHCE could be exhausting, but he saw value in following through with clients and connections to build long-term relationships. In closing, Brian asked David for his perspective on advancing the outdoor hospitality industry. David emphasized community and collaboration as critical to industry growth. He encouraged attendees to share their OHCE experiences with others, broadening awareness of OHI’s resources and fostering a stronger network among campground owners. The episode ended with an invitation to join OHCE 2025 in Louisville, Kentucky, and a reminder that fostering connections is essential for the continued success of the outdoor hospitality industry.

In the October 2, 2024 episode of MC Fireside Chats, host Brian Searl, founder and CEO of Insider Perks, led a dynamic discussion live from the Glamping Show Americas in Denver. The show featured a stellar lineup of industry leaders and experts from various parts of the world, all sharing their perspectives on the growing glamping industry and its international reach. The panel included recurring guests Mike Harrison from CRR Hospitality, Miguel Ángel Huerta Vallejo from the Mexican Glamping Association, Chris Jeub from Monument Glamping, and Greg Emmert from Camp Strategy. Special guests included Tomás Rodas Calderó from Ecuador’s Starwild Glamping, Jason Thawley of Tree Tent International, Joanna Reimann from FDomes in Poland, and a special appearance by William Clark from Fiji. The show began with each guest briefly introducing themselves. Mike Harrison from CRR Hospitality, which manages upscale luxury glamping and RV resorts, expressed his excitement about being part of the American Glamping Show again. He described the show as a “Christmas” for the glamping community, echoing sentiments from several panelists. Miguel Ángel Huerta Vallejo, representing the Mexican Glamping Association, also described the event as a significant annual gathering, akin to a holiday, filled with excitement and innovation for the glamping world. Greg Emmert, a consultant with Camp Strategy, shared his enthusiasm for the diverse range of attendees and vendors from across the globe. Newcomer Jason Thawley, the founder of Tree Tent International, introduced his company’s unique suspended tree structures, which were being shown for the first time at the U.S. glamping show. Thawley expressed gratitude for the warm welcome his company received in the American market, noting that the U.S. glamping industry is highly organized, with business owners who have done their research and understand the market. He compared the U.S. show favorably to the UK glamping show, which he said doesn’t quite capture the same energy and diversity. Joanna Reimann from FDomes in Poland discussed the growth of her company and how their innovative geodesic domes have become popular worldwide, especially in the U.S. market. She shared that this was the third year in a row her company was exhibiting at the glamping show, and they were once again premiering new products, including a new camping tent and outdoor furniture line. Joanna spoke about FDomes’ dedication to supporting their clients throughout the entire process of setting up a glamping operation, emphasizing the importance of educating people about what glamping is, especially in countries like Poland, where the concept is still relatively new. Chris Jeub, the self-proclaimed “Glamping Guy,” shared his experiences operating a glamping site in Colorado. He reflected on the rapid growth of the industry, noting how five years ago, glamping was a term he had to explain to everyone. Today, glamping has exploded into a creative, dynamic industry with a wide variety of accommodation types, from domes to treehouses, container homes, and even buses. Chris emphasized the importance of creativity and flexibility in the glamping industry, as operators continue to innovate and create unique guest experiences. He also teased his upcoming educational course, “Easy Entry to Glamping Business,” which he plans to offer internationally to help aspiring glamping operators get started. The conversation then turned to Tomás Rodas Calderó from Ecuador’s Starwild Glamping, who shared insights about the emerging glamping market in Ecuador and other parts of Latin America. He explained that while the glamping industry in Ecuador is still in its infancy, there has been significant growth in recent years. Tomás described how his company has seen domes being used for a wide range of purposes, not just for glamping but also for schools, designer stores, and even churches. He noted that Ecuador’s more relaxed zoning laws for rural areas make it easier to establish glamping operations, offering significant potential for growth. However, he also pointed out that there is still a need for better business planning and operational expertise in the region, which presents an opportunity for development. Miguel Ángel Huerta Vallejo highlighted the diversity of the attendees at the show, particularly the growing number of Latino and Latin American participants. He praised the inclusive atmosphere of the event and shared his thoughts on the evolution of the glamping industry in Mexico. He discussed how recent regulations in Mexico, such as limits on Airbnb rentals, are driving developers to invest in glamping sites instead. This shift, he said, will further boost the popularity of glamping in Mexico, especially in areas like the Firefly Sanctuary near Mexico City, where local guides and workers are now able to remain employed year-round thanks to glamping operations. A significant part of the discussion focused on the international expansion of glamping. The panelists explored how glamping has evolved in different countries, including challenges like regulatory hurdles, land use, and zoning laws. Chris Jeub and Greg Emmert discussed how U.S. states are beginning to embrace more flexible land-use laws, particularly with regards to accessory dwelling units (ADUs), which could help further the expansion of glamping operations. Greg Emmert pointed out that the glamping show has provided a platform for innovation, noting that some of the prices for glamping units have adjusted to more reasonable levels, making it easier for operators to build financially sustainable businesses. The conversation then touched on the global growth of glamping associations. Miguel Ángel Huerta shared his excitement about the Mexican Glamping Association’s progress and how other countries have expressed interest in creating their own associations. He joked about the possibility of a “Confederation of Glamping Associations” in the future but emphasized that the growing number of organizations dedicated to glamping reflects the industry’s increasing international appeal. At this point, William Clark from Fiji posed an important question about the possibility of forming an international glamping association. He highlighted how an international organization could help link the various national associations and provide a platform for sharing information, resources, and best practices. The panelists agreed that while forming a global association would be challenging due to the vast differences in regulations and market conditions across countries, there is immense value in fostering better communication and collaboration between existing national organizations. The discussion also touched on labor and staffing challenges in rural and remote areas. Mike Harrison pointed out that while staffing has been a challenge for many hospitality operators, the glamping industry provides a unique opportunity to foster a sense of community and connection. He emphasized that passion, drive, and a love for hospitality are more important than formal education in succeeding in this industry. Miguel Ángel Huerta noted that in Latin America, labor costs are lower, and workers often live near the glamping sites, which can add a personal touch to the guest experience. To wrap up the episode, Brian Searl asked the panelists to share their thoughts on how to inspire passion for hospitality in staff and employees. Mike Harrison responded that while passion cannot be taught, it can be inspired through leadership and fostering a culture of enthusiasm for hospitality. He emphasized the importance of education and creating opportunities for learning, whether through in-person events like the glamping show or online resources like the American Glamping University, which offers comprehensive courses on setting up and running glamping operations. The episode concluded with a sense of excitement about the future of the glamping industry, both in the U.S. and internationally. The panelists expressed optimism about the continued growth of glamping as a global phenomenon, driven by innovation, creativity, and a shared passion for providing unique, memorable outdoor experiences. The glamping show, with its diverse array of products and ideas, was described as a hub of inspiration and networking, bringing together people from all corners of the world to share their knowledge and passion for this rapidly evolving industry.

In the September 4th, 2024 edition of MC Fireside Chats, guest host Mark Koep filled in for Brian Searl and welcomed a panel of outdoor hospitality experts, including Jeff Hoffman, Sandy Ellingson, Scott Bahr, Mike Harrison, and special guest Luisana Méndez from Huellas Latinas. The episode explored key topics in the outdoor hospitality industry and community engagement. Luisana Méndez, the leader of Huellas Latinas, a Minnesota-based nonprofit, shared how her organization promotes outdoor activities within the Latino community. Huellas Latinas helps immigrants and refugees overcome language barriers, transportation issues, and lack of information to experience outdoor recreation. Luisana noted that many newcomers to the U.S. prioritize work and education initially, with recreation often falling to the background. As they settle in, Huellas Latinas helps them find confidence in outdoor activities by offering guidance on navigating parks, safety, and proper gear, especially for Minnesota’s cold winters. Luisana emphasized that Huellas Latinas primarily serves the first generation of immigrants from various Latin American countries. While they all share a common language, cultural differences add complexity to the group’s dynamic. Mark Koep inquired about funding, and Luisana shared that Huellas Latinas is supported by contracts with parks and agencies, along with grants like the one received from Together Outdoors. She also highlighted the importance of the organization in creating a sense of belonging for the Latino community through outdoor experiences. The conversation transitioned to industry trends, where Sandy Ellingson discussed concerns over a projected 55% drop in RV travel during Labor Day weekend, based on RV Industry Association data. Although some parks had successful weekends, there was a significant decline in bookings for the fall season, especially with snowbirds delaying their travel due to election-related anxieties. Mike Harrison echoed this, saying that while their luxury RV and glamping properties performed well, the overall industry is facing slower growth compared to previous years. Scott Bahr highlighted a growing disconnect between outdoor recreation enthusiasts and campground stays. He noted an increase in trail usage, yet campgrounds aren’t seeing proportional growth. This gap, according to Scott, represents a key opportunity for the outdoor hospitality industry to better engage with this group, perhaps through more strategic marketing. Mike and Jeff Hoffman discussed broader market conditions, with Mike pointing out a potential oversupply of parks built during the pandemic. He stressed the importance of maintaining good operations, as only the well-run parks will thrive as the market slows. Jeff predicted a shakeout in the industry, where those relying on overinflated demand may struggle. The group also touched on the growing glamping trend ahead of the glamping show. Scott and Mike expressed enthusiasm for the event, where they’ll present industry insights. Sandy, while a fan of glamping, warned that it’s becoming a competitor to traditional campgrounds, as travelers are often choosing the convenience of glamping over RV or tent camping. The session concluded with a forward-looking discussion, with panelists predicting challenges and opportunities in the coming months, including industry shifts and trends in winter camping. Overall, the episode highlighted both concerns, such as slowing RV travel, and opportunities for growth, especially in reaching new and diverse communities through innovative outreach.

In the MC Fireside Chats episode on August 7th, 2024, hosted by Brian Searl, the discussion primarily focused on adapting business strategies in the outdoor hospitality industry amid changing consumer behaviors and economic conditions. Initially, the episode saw a humorous start with Brian joking about how he and Scott Bahr could have monopolized the conversation due to other scheduled guests like Mark Koep, Jeff Hoffman, and Sandy Ellingson having conflicts, though Jeff eventually joined the discussion. As the chat progressed, Scott elaborated on the significance of data in understanding and responding to how weather impacts customer decisions, especially highlighting the differences between RVers and tent campers in their likelihood to change plans due to weather conditions. This led into a deeper exploration of how campgrounds can leverage this information to enhance their services, such as offering weather-specific accommodations or flexible booking policies to accommodate last-minute changes. Jeff Hoffman later contributed to the conversation by emphasizing the importance of adapting to customer needs during unpredictable weather, suggesting that campgrounds could introduce options like weather insurance to retain customers who might otherwise cancel their plans. He also shared insights on how campgrounds can maintain engagement with guests through indoor activities or alternative lodging options like cabins or glamping setups when bad weather deters traditional camping. Sandy Ellingson added her perspective on the industry trends, particularly pointing out the strategic necessity for campground owners to be more accommodating and proactive in their marketing efforts. She discussed how understanding and reacting to shorter booking windows and regional travel preferences can help businesses remain competitive and attractive to a customer base that is increasingly looking for flexibility and convenience in their travel plans. The episode encapsulated a wide range of strategies for campground owners to consider, from immediate responses to weather changes to longer-term adjustments in marketing and customer engagement practices. Each speaker brought a unique viewpoint, collectively underscoring the need for agility and forward-thinking in the evolving landscape of outdoor hospitality.

Hosted by Brian Searl, this edition of MC Fireside Chats delved into the nuances of outdoor hospitality with a focus on point-of-sale (POS) systems and group camping dynamics. Guests included Scott Bahr, Casey Cochran, Jeff Hoffman, Sandy Ellingson, Mike Harrison, and Amir Harpaz, each bringing their expertise from various corners of the RV and camping industry. The episode kicked off with introductions from the recurring guests who outlined their roles and current projects. Sandy Ellingson highlighted a new app launch, aimed at enhancing RV and campground interactions. The guests briefly touched on their experiences with booking and managing group camping, an ongoing challenge in the industry that demands innovative solutions. Amir Harpaz initiated the conversation on POS systems, emphasizing the need for integration with property management systems (PMS) to streamline operations within campgrounds. This led to a broader discussion on the best practices for implementing POS systems that cater to both small snack bars and full-scale restaurant operations within campgrounds. Scott Bahr shared insights from recent research focusing on the dynamics of group camping. He noted that group campers are particularly loyal and enjoy the social aspect of camping with friends or family. The discussion then shifted to the logistical challenges of accommodating groups, including booking processes and site management. Casey Cochran from Campspot shared how their software aids in managing group bookings more efficiently. Mike Harrison discussed the luxury RV resort perspective, emphasizing the importance of upscale amenities and seamless service integration. He also touched on how technology, like NFC wristbands, although not universally popular, can enhance the guest experience by facilitating easy access and payments. Guests discussed operational challenges associated with POS systems, like integration complexities and the balance between tech-enhanced guest service and traditional camping experiences. Jeff Hoffman and Sandy Ellingson highlighted the need for campground owners to stay abreast of technological advancements to remain competitive and meet guest expectations. The conversation concluded with a look at future trends in the industry, including the growing demand for integrated technology solutions and enhanced group facilities. The experts agreed that the ability to adapt to guest needs and technological advancements will be crucial for the continued success of campground operations. Brian Searl wrapped up the episode by encouraging listeners to stay connected with MC Fireside Chats for more insights and discussions on evolving trends in the outdoor hospitality industry. The episode underscored the importance of community, technology, and innovation in shaping the future of camping and RV experiences.