Episodes

The latest episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, delved into Marketing, AI, and Technology in outdoor hospitality with guests Greg Emmert, Matt Whitermore, and Brent Parker. They concluded that AI’s most effective role is to be “invisible” to the guest, acting as a force multiplier to streamline operations and enable hyper-personalized service, ultimately enhancing the human experience and allowing guests to disconnect faster once they arrive.

The September 24th episode of MC Fireside Chats covered the rapid acceleration of AI and robotics, emphasizing that outdoor hospitality operators must adopt seamless access control and localized data management to meet rising guest expectations and remain competitive in a rapidly changing industry.

In an episode of MC Fireside Chats focused on marketing, AI, and technology, panelists Brian Searl, Cara Csizmadia, Ravi Parish, Nate Taylor, and Greg Emmert discussed how to balance the integration of new technologies with the crucial need for authenticity and human connection to build trust and ensure the long-term success of businesses in the outdoor hospitality industry.

In the latest episode of MC Fireside Chats, host Brian Searl of Insider Perks explores the intersection of marketing, AI, and the campground industry. He’s joined by recurring guests Mychele Bisson of Bison Peak Ventures and Kurtis Wilkins of Rjourney, along with special guests Jeremy Johnson, owner of Kona Hills Campground, and Kieron Wilde of First Nature and Fur Haven. Brian opens the show by welcoming Mychele, who was initially delayed in joining. He then sets the stage by highlighting the show’s focus on marketing and AI, noting the absence of regular guest Greg Emmert due to client commitments. Brian proceeds to introduce Kurtis and Mychele, jokingly stumbling over Mychele’s last name, “Bisson,” which leads to a lighthearted discussion about the pronunciation of French words and Brian’s preference for German. Mychele echoes his sentiment, finding French pronunciation “snotty.” Despite the playful jabs, all agree that French people are “beautiful.” Kurtis Wilkins of Rjourney, who manages and owns 43 campgrounds, speaks first, noting his company’s presence in the industry since 2017. Mychele Bisson then introduces herself as a relative newcomer, having owned six campgrounds from Alaska to Florida for almost two years, and actively growing her portfolio. Brian teases Mychele about potentially owning 800 parks in 16 years, attributing future growth to AI’s impact on systems. Jeremy Johnson, the owner of Kona Hills Campground in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, shares his five-year journey of permitting and entitlements to open his first 80-acre campground with 40 rustic tent camping sites on Lake Superior. He explains that his background in residential real estate investing, coupled with rising housing prices in Marquette, led him to pivot to campgrounds. Jeremy initially envisioned higher-end glamping with cabins but shifted to rustic tent and car camping due to Michigan’s state-level campground licensing requirements for more than two units for short-term stays. He emphasizes the desire to maintain immersion in nature while mindfully adding accommodations. He also shares his positive experiences with car campers, dispelling stereotypes about them being irresponsible, and notes the initial resistance from the local community who feared “homeless people.” Jeremy highlights the inherent demand for his campground due to its proximity to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and the city of Marquette, both tourism hubs. He exclusively uses direct bookings through Park for reservations, having delisted from Hipcamp due to backend difficulties and communication challenges with self-service operations. Kieron Wilde, owner of First Nature, a destination management company and tour operator for the West Coast of North America, and Fur Haven, a glamping setup, discusses his 18 years in the industry. He explains that First Nature packages experiences with accommodations and attractions, often selling to tour operators. Kieron also shares his personal journey of relocating to the Columbia River Gorge and the permitting challenges he faced with his Fur Haven project, eventually finding a previously permitted Thousand Trails property. His vision for Fur Haven focuses on the mobility of its A-frame units, allowing them to be relocated seasonally to meet demand for events like concerts or large gatherings. Kieron elaborates on the diverse experiences First Nature offers in the Pacific Northwest, ranging from hiking and whitewater rafting to wine country tours and world-class skiing, emphasizing unique, high-level, and custom private experiences. He also highlights his company’s commitment to sustainability and regenerative tourism. The conversation then shifts to the future of the campground industry, particularly the overlooked opportunity for enhancing guest experiences. Mychele expresses her appreciation for the diversity within the industry, noting how different approaches, like Jeremy’s rustic camping or Kieron’s curated experiences, all thrive. She shares an example of her Alaska park, which, despite appearing like a “parking lot,” serves as a base for guests to explore the surrounding natural beauty of Valdez, leading to community-building events like fish fries. Jeremy elaborates on his future plans for Kona Hills, including developing an old rock quarry for ice climbing and leveraging its proximity to extensive mountain biking trails, drawing inspiration from Bentonville’s success. Kurtis chimes in, reinforcing the idea of unique experiences for each Rjourney campground and jokingly blames his unusual quietness on allergies and nearby wildfires in Washington. The discussion then pivots to the impact of AI on marketing and the industry. Brian introduces the new ChatGPT agent, which can perform actions like booking itineraries and checking calendars by connecting to personal data, calling it just the “beginning.” He then mentions Perplexity’s new browser, which runs locally on a computer, emphasizing that the future will involve AI making decisions based on website content without human interaction. Kurtis envisions a future where websites communicate via robust APIs with AI agents, facilitating bookings and reservations. Mychele shares her experience with a prop-AI business that uses AI for cold calling and lead generation, and an AI system called Manus that can book entire trips based on detailed user preferences. She stresses the importance of adapting to AI, noting that “mom and pop” campground owners who resist will be left behind. The panelists discuss the rapid pace of AI development, with Kurtis noting how quickly new technologies become “obsolete.” Mychele highlights the challenge of balancing traditional customer service with AI-driven efficiencies, believing that AI can free up staff to focus on human-centric customer service. Brian plays devil’s advocate, suggesting that even a robot could provide a “human experience” by fulfilling guest needs. The conversation touches on the broader societal implications of AI, including job displacement and the growing wealth gap. They express concern about the lack of public discourse on these issues and the rapid approach of “super-intelligence.” Mychele emphasizes the need for businesses to adapt to AI-driven search and booking methods to remain competitive. The episode concludes with Brian, Mychele, and Kurtis discussing the accelerating pace of AI development and its profound impact on all aspects of life. They muse about a future where humanoid robots could be commonplace and even become integrated into personal relationships. Mychele stresses that businesses must embrace AI to stay relevant, and Kurtis and Brian acknowledge the difficulty of keeping up with the rapid changes. Brian, acknowledging the extended discussion, wraps up the show by thanking his guests and promoting his other podcast, “Outwired,” which will continue the conversation on the future of campgrounds.

In the recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, a new focus for the Week 4 show was introduced, shifting away from the RV industry to concentrate on marketing, AI, and technology. Host Brian Searl, CEO of Insider Perks and Modern Campground, opened the show by explaining this new direction and the reshuffling of some recurring guests. He noted that Phil from RVDA of America and Eleonore from RVDA of Canada would now appear on the Week 1 show, which covers data, trends, and analytics. Greg Emmert, the founder of Verio Outdoor Hospitality Consulting, was introduced by Brian, who joked that he was kept on the panel out of pity. Greg then introduced himself and his consulting firm, which helps clients build their operations “strategically and with soul.” He and Brian also made light of the new website Brian’s team is building for his company. Kurtis Wilkins, a new recurring guest from Rjourney RV Resorts and Advanced Outdoor Management, was welcomed to the show. He clarified that he goes by “Kurtis” professionally to distinguish himself from another “Kurtis” in his office. He explained that his company has 41 branded locations and over 12,000 RV pads, with a focus on front-end sales and the monetization of camping. Sam Dagenhard, the founder and CEO of Campfire Ranch, was introduced as a special guest. He described his company as an outdoor hospitality brand based in Gunnison, Colorado, which is building a collection of properties with a focus on “subscale” locations of 30 rooms or less. He said this allows for a high-touch, intimate experience where they can know guests by name. He also stated that his company offers a range of experiences from camping to backcountry trips, always located near prime outdoor recreation spots. Sam later revealed that he grew up RVing and camping and began putting his ideas on paper after moving to Los Angeles, where he found himself limited by state park and national forest campgrounds. He started organizing large, informal group camping trips to places like Joshua Tree, which inspired him to design an ideal campground for his generation. He took a leap in 2019, leaving his job in sports marketing at Red Bull to find his first location, intending to build a brand that would eventually span coast to coast and offer a unique, one-of-a-kind experience. The discussion began with a topic brought up by Kurtis Wilkins, who spoke about the transition from traditional SEO to what his team is calling “AEO,” or AI Engine Optimization. He noted that 13% of search traffic had recently been diverted away from Google, which is a significant change being discussed in many marketing departments. Brian Searl responded by sharing his belief that traditional SEO is “dead” because as AI gets smarter, it will be impossible to “trick” Google. He argued that the new focus should be on providing valuable content that AI systems can easily understand. He then asked Sam Dagenhard about his recent experience with a website redesign and SEO report. Sam said that in the beginning, SEO was all about inserting keywords into copy, which felt “wonky.” He has now learned that other factors like speed and security also play a role. He explained that his company is still young, and their initial website on Squarespace was a prototype for a 17-site campground where SEO happened “by accident.” As his company has grown, they are now transitioning to a more robust website and are in the copywriting phase. He found it interesting to see how much AI was already picking up about his business during a brand discovery audit. He believes it is crucial for his internal team to write the website copy to maintain the authentic, high-touch relationship they have with guests. Kurtis Wilkins agreed with Sam’s starting point, acknowledging that his experience with SEO 10 years ago was the same. He said that good SEO has always been about providing what Google wants and doing it in a structured way. He emphasized the importance of localized content and using backlinks from community groups like the Boy Scouts to build relevance. He noted that his current focus is on creating structured, targeted information, localized to the community and the user searching for it, regardless of their location. He expressed a desire to hear more from Brian on this. Greg Emmert offered a historical perspective on SEO, recalling his first website when people used Yahoo and a “web crawler” for search results. He admitted that he learned little about SEO and was more focused on daily operations like plunging toilets. He stated that his new website, built by Brian’s team, is being tailored for “LLM” (Large Language Model) searches, which he called “AEO,” a term he admitted to stealing from Kurtis. He explained that he is now focused on conversational, narrative-style writing that sounds like he is speaking, which he sees as the future of search. He also mentioned his recent experience with a different consulting company, noting how quickly the SEO landscape has changed in just two years. Brian Searl added to the discussion, emphasizing that everyday people don’t need to be SEO experts but should know enough to ask the right questions of their marketing partners. He suggested using tools like ChatGPT to learn the basics. He reinforced the idea that Google has always wanted websites to write for the user, and providing valuable, easy-to-understand content is key. He cited an example of a client’s property in Arizona, Verde Ranch RV Resort, where a page about bicycle rentals could help them win search queries from users and AI systems looking for that specific amenity in the area. He stressed that a page dedicated to a specific offering is far more powerful than a simple bullet point on an amenities list. Kurtis Wilkins agreed with Brian’s point about providing value, stating that Google’s core function is to be a good recommender for its users. He also mentioned that RV parks are “many businesses in one business,” and each component, from waterparks to gift shops, needs to be optimized for search. He added that “social proof” from reviews and listings also plays an increasingly important role. Brian agreed, highlighting that brand building, press releases, and social media conversations are crucial signals that AI uses to understand a business. Brian then invited Sam to elaborate on how Campfire Ranch got started. Sam explained his lifelong love for the outdoors, starting with RVing with his family. After moving to LA for a career in sports marketing with Red Bull, he felt a gap in the market for a campground designed for his generation. He started organizing group camping trips where he would rent and set up all the gear for friends, realizing the barrier to entry for camping was the equipment itself. This led to his business model, which focuses on providing gear and equipment. He also emphasized the importance of building community, noting he loves when guests line up for the bathroom because it encourages them to talk and make friends. He said that this high-touch approach has also led to partnerships with manufacturers like North Face who provide gear for rentals. He stated that Campfire Ranch is an “RV-free” campground, focusing on tent, car, and van camping. Greg Emmert praised Sam’s business model, calling it “underserved” and noting that car camping is on the rise. He commended Sam’s courage in creating a business that is different from the typical RV park model. Kurtis Wilkins added that while he loves tent campers, many local governments and municipalities prevent RV parks from offering tent camping or “van camping.” Sam replied that Campfire Ranch’s walk-in tent sites are priced at a premium because they offer the best views, proving that if you cater to tent campers and make them feel important, they will come. He said that this intentional design choice comes from understanding what customers want and that it is a great reality check against assumptions. Brian Searl concluded the main discussion by highlighting the difference between a business owner and an entrepreneur, noting the courage it takes to pursue a niche like Sam has. With the hour approaching, the panelists prepared to wrap up. Brian extended an invitation to Sam to become a recurring guest on the show, which Sam accepted. The show ended with Brian encouraging the audience to connect with Sam at Campfire Ranch, Kurtis at Rjourney, and Greg at his new consulting company, Verio. The group signed off, mentioning the upcoming Outwired podcast to discuss credit card fraud and heat safety.

On May 28th, 2025, another insightful episode of MC Fireside Chats unfolded, hosted by Brian Searl of Insider Perks and Modern Campground. This particular session was dedicated to the RV industry and outdoor recreation, bringing together a panel of recurring experts and special guests to dissect current trends, share operational experiences, and forecast future developments. Brian warmly welcomed the audience and introduced the day’s lineup, setting the stage for a comprehensive discussion that spanned from high-level industry statistics to on-the-ground business strategies. The episode featured its regular contributors from the RV Dealers Association (RVDA): Eleonore Hamm, President of RVDA of Canada, and Phil Ingrassia, President of RVDA of the US. Eleonore outlined her association’s focus on education, advocacy, and ensuring the profitability and sustainability of Canadian RV dealers. Phil echoed these sentiments, highlighting the US RVDA’s mission to support dealers and collaborate with manufacturers and suppliers on initiatives like the Go RVing program, which promotes the RV lifestyle in their respective countries. Their presence provided a crucial overview of the North American RV market landscape. Joining the seasoned regulars were two special guests making significant waves in their local outdoor hospitality sectors. Ilia Smirnov, owner of Cape Fear River Adventures and the Cozy Heron Glamping Resort, was introduced first. Located near Raleigh, North Carolina, Ilia’s businesses offer a unique blend of river-based activities and distinctive glamping accommodations. Following Ilia, Lisa Green, the General Manager of the Decatur Wheeler Lake KOA Campground in Alabama, shared her experiences. Lisa described her campground as an activity-driven destination, emphasizing her journey into the industry and the strategies she has employed. The discussion kicked off with an industry update from Phil Ingrassia and Eleonore Hamm. Phil shared that April’s wholesale RV shipments in the US saw a pleasant 4% increase compared to the previous year, though he noted that retail sales for April were not yet available and had been lagging slightly, with March retail sales down about 14% year-over-year, indicating an inventory build-up as dealers prepared for the season. He acknowledged that consumer sentiment, influenced by job prospects, the stock market, savings, and gas prices, plays a significant role in RV sales, predicting that the year would likely end up similar to the last. Eleonore Hamm provided the Canadian perspective, noting a similar trend where wholesale shipments outpaced retail sales. She explained that Canadian dealers had been rapidly building inventory due to concerns about tariffs and counter-tariffs, particularly the 25% counter-tariff on US-manufactured motorhomes that came into effect on April 9th, though towables were fortunately excluded. This uncertainty led to a cautious approach from dealers, with new unit sales down about 10% year-over-year by the end of March. Eleonore elaborated on the complexities of these tariffs, linked to HS codes where motorhomes are classified under automotive, and mentioned ongoing advocacy efforts to government to remove motorhomes from this tariff. Both Phil and Eleonore agreed that the late spring and early summer period is crucial for sales volume. Shifting to consumer behavior, Brian Searl inquired about RV ownership and usage. Phil Ingrassia revealed that data on RVs in operation, a proprietary number, has been growing consistently, even through the pandemic and beyond. He estimated that the number of RVs in operation has increased from around 3.5 million in 2010 to over 6.5 million currently. This indicates that people are holding onto their RVs and renewing registrations. He also mentioned that Go RVing research shows many pandemic buyers have developed a fondness for RV travel and intend to continue, debunking some fears of a mass exodus from the lifestyle. Approximately 1.5 million RVs were sold in North America during the pandemic peak, a significant boost to the installed base. The conversation then turned to Ilia Smirnov, who detailed his entrepreneurial journey. Cape Fear River Adventures, his flagship company, has been operating for 14 years, primarily offering self-guided canoe, kayak, paddleboard rentals, and lazy river tubing on the flat portions of the Cape Fear River. He humorously recounted finding the initial business for sale on Craigslist in 2012. The success of the river adventures paved the way for the Cozy Heron Glamping Resort, now in its third year. Ilia explained that his interest in creating a multi-day destination and the challenge of building on a floodplain led him to discover Conestoga wagons at a trade show, which became the unique lodging solution for his resort, offering a “bridge experience” for those new to the outdoors with comforts like AC and king-size beds. Lisa Green then shared her experiences since becoming the General Manager of the Decatur Wheeler Lake KOA in July of the previous year, a challenging start given her background was in food and beverage, not campground management. She identified that a primary hurdle was rebuilding relationships with staff and the community due to a lack of consistent, customer-service-oriented leadership prior to her arrival. Lisa emphasized the importance of community support and generating auxiliary income. She significantly increased local engagement, noting that previously only 2% of visitors were local, a number she has drastically improved. A key initiative was planning a large music festival featuring only local bands and vendors, which successfully sold out the entire campground well in advance and provided crucial off-season income. The discussion broadened to the importance of marketing and activities in attracting and retaining guests. Eleonore Hamm admitted that it wouldn’t typically occur to her to visit a campground for activities if she wasn’t camping there, highlighting a potential marketing gap. Lisa Green stressed that campgrounds need to offer more activities to engage the 12 to 18-year-old demographic, ensuring they develop positive camping memories that could lead them to become future RV buyers and enthusiasts. Phil Ingrassia concurred, noting that industry research consistently shows individuals who camped as children are significantly more predisposed to engage in RVing later in life, underscoring the value of investing in youth-focused programs and creating “sticky” outdoor experiences. As the episode drew to a close, the guests offered their final thoughts. Lisa Green encouraged everyone to “enjoy a day outdoors, you’ll remember it.” Ilia Smirnov expressed his continued commitment to finding new ways to get people outside and shared that his businesses can be found online at capefearadventures.com. Eleonore Hamm and Phil Ingrassia thanked Brian for the opportunity to hear from campground operators, finding the insights complementary to their perspectives from the RV dealer side. Brian Searl concluded the show, thanking all his guests for the rich conversation and promoting an upcoming podcast, “Outwired,” where he would delve deeper into data trends and consumer niches in the outdoor hospitality sector with Scott Bahr.

In a recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, Brian Searl convened a panel of industry leaders and experts to explore the multifaceted dynamics of the RV and outdoor recreation sectors. The discussion featured recurring guests Eleonore Hamm from RVDA of Canada, Phil Ingrassia representing RVDA, and Greg Emmert, alongside special guest Eva Mitic, providing a range of perspectives on the current state and future direction of the industry. The episode addressed key issues such as the potential impact of tariffs, the shifting landscape of consumer behavior, and the role of innovation in driving the industry forward. The conversation began with a focus on the looming threat of tariffs and their potential repercussions for the RV industry. Eleonore Hamm provided insights into the Canadian perspective, explaining RVDA of Canada’s efforts to inform its members about the potential impact of counter tariff measures. She highlighted the challenges posed by the lack of a sufficient Canadian supply chain to meet the demand, with a significant portion of RVs sold in Canada being imported from the US. The tariffs, if implemented, would affect RVs crossing the border, potentially increasing costs for dealers and consumers. Phil Ingrassia, speaking from the United States, acknowledged the industry’s shared concerns regarding tariffs and underscored the importance of maintaining free and fair trade between the two countries. He noted the interconnectedness of the US and Canadian RV industries. Brian Searl raised the concern about the potential impact on private campgrounds if tariffs do go into effect. Eleonore Hamm responded that there could be a positive side for Canadian campgrounds as people might choose to camp locally. However, she expressed concern about the long-term impact on dealers and potentially on consumers. Eva Mitic contributed to the conversation by focusing on the role of technology and sustainability in shaping the future of the RV industry. She discussed trends like the increasing importance of user-friendly RV systems and the growing emphasis on sustainable practices. The episode explored how innovations such as lithium technology and artificial intelligence are transforming RV design and functionality, catering to evolving consumer expectations. The discussion also delved into the evolving landscape of consumer behavior in the RV and outdoor recreation sectors. Participants noted a trend toward ease of use and connectivity, as well as the impact of the COVID boom on consumer education and expectations. This has implications for both RV manufacturers and dealers, requiring them to adapt their offerings and strategies to meet changing consumer preferences. Brian Searl prompted the panel to consider various factors influencing the industry, from consumer behavior to technological advancements. Panelists discussed the importance of convenience and intuitive design, as well as the ongoing need to educate consumers about RV operation and maintenance. The episode further explored the challenges and opportunities associated with technological innovation in the RV industry, including the development and adoption of new power systems and the potential influence of electric vehicle technology. The complexities of research and development costs and the balance between innovation and affordability were also considered. The impact of economic uncertainties, including concerns about consumer sentiment and market fluctuations, was a recurring theme. Panelists analyzed the ways in which these factors influence consumer confidence and purchasing decisions, as well as business planning and investment in the RV sector. The discussion also underscored the increasing importance of advancements in RV components and systems, reflecting a broader trend toward enhanced functionality and user experience. The ongoing advancements in power systems and the potential to integrate “smart home” technology into RVs were highlighted as key areas of development. Ultimately, the MC Fireside Chats episode provided a valuable platform for exploring the multifaceted dynamics of the RV industry, bringing together diverse perspectives to analyze current challenges and anticipate future trends. The insights shared by industry experts contributed to a richer understanding of the forces shaping the sector and offered guidance for navigating its ongoing evolution.

In a recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, Brian Searl convened a panel of industry leaders to delve into the pressing issues and evolving trends impacting the RV and outdoor recreation sectors. The discussion featured Eleonore Hamm from RVDA of Canada, Shane Devenish of the Canadian RV Association (CRVA), Greg Emmert, Phil Ingrassia representing RVDA, and Aaron Bannon from the American Outdoors Association. The episode tackled the complex landscape of potential tariffs, shifting consumer behaviors, and the innovative strides being made within the industry, providing valuable insights for campground owners, RV dealers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The discussion began with the potential impact of tariffs on the RV industry. Eleonore Hamm explained that RVDA of Canada is providing information and resources to its members regarding potential counter tariff measures. She highlighted the lack of a sufficient Canadian supply chain to meet the demand, with a significant portion of RVs sold in Canada being imported from the US. The tariffs, if implemented, would affect RVs crossing the border, potentially increasing costs for dealers and consumers. Shane Devenish emphasized the difficulty in keeping everyone informed due to the rapidly changing situation. He also clarified that the Canadian countermeasures would only take effect if the US imposes tariffs on Canadian goods. Phil Ingrassia, speaking from Washington D.C., acknowledged the industry’s concern and stressed the importance of free and fair trade. He noted the interconnectedness of the US and Canadian RV industries. Brian Searl raised the concern about the potential impact on private campgrounds if tariffs do go into effect. Eleonore Hamm responded that there could be a positive side for Canadian campgrounds as people might choose to camp locally. However, she expressed concern about the long-term impact on dealers and potentially on consumers. Aaron Bannon provided an overview of the American Outdoors Association, which comprises organizations providing facilitated recreation experiences on public lands. He discussed the crossover between his members and the RV industry, noting that many guides live in RVs and that a robust tourism industry benefits outfitters. Bannon also mentioned trends like the increasing popularity of glamping and a shift towards shorter, less risky trips. Greg Emmert and Shane Devenish weighed in on the trend of shorter trips, linking it to economic uncertainty and fuel costs. Shane Devenish shared anecdotal evidence of some people planning longer trips within Canada. Brian Searl then posed a question about how businesses in different sectors could pivot in a moderately challenging economic scenario. Aaron Bannon suggested that outfitters might focus on attracting customers from nearby metropolitan areas and diversify their offerings. Greg Emmert emphasized the importance of partnerships and experiential offerings for campgrounds, particularly those near population centers. Eleonore Hamm said that Canadian RV dealers might focus more on pre-owned sales and service. Shane Devenish highlighted the challenges faced by parts suppliers and manufacturers on both sides of the border. Phil Ingrassia discussed the complexities of the situation for US manufacturers due to the sourcing of components and the impact of consumer sentiment on RV sales. Phil Ingrassia then discussed the RVIA’s emerging leaders program, which aims to connect and develop industry professionals. Aaron Bannon spoke about similar programs within the Outdoors Association, emphasizing the value of fresh perspectives. Phil Ingrassia also discussed Go RVing’s experiential events, which are designed to introduce RVing to people who may have little exposure to it. Eleonore Hamm added that Go RVing Canada also participates in similar events. Brian Searl then brought up Pebble, an all-electric RV with advanced technology. Greg Emmert provided details about Pebble’s features, including its self-hitching, remote control maneuverability, and extended vehicle range capabilities. Phil Ingrassia noted that the company was founded by former Tesla executives and that these types of innovations may appeal to a new demographic of RVers. In their final thoughts, Eleonore Hamm thanked everyone for the opportunity to speak. Greg Emmert stressed the importance of developing the next generation of leaders in the outdoor hospitality industry. Aaron Bannon highlighted the passage of the Explore Act and its potential to facilitate new outfitter businesses. Shane Devenish mentioned the CRVA’s 50th anniversary and upcoming special events. Phil Ingrassia expressed optimism about the upcoming season. Eleonore Hamm provided information on how to access the petition regarding tariffs on the RVDA website.

The latest episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, kicked off with the usual banter between recurring guests Greg Emmert and Angele Miller, setting a lighthearted tone before diving into deeper discussions about the RV industry, outdoor recreation, and emerging trends in travel and accommodations. With key players from the RV industry unavailable due to board meetings, the conversation took a broader focus on innovative housing solutions and the evolving landscape of outdoor hospitality. Angele Miller highlighted the growing demand for wellness tourism, emphasizing how nature-based experiences like meditation, yoga, and Nordic-style wellness treatments are attracting more visitors. She pointed out that people are increasingly looking for ways to integrate nature into their well-being, whether through forest bathing, herbal tea rituals, or simply unplugging in scenic environments. This shift aligns with broader travel trends where guests seek holistic experiences rather than just a place to stay. The discussion expanded into economic factors affecting the industry, particularly cross-border travel. Brian and Angele touched on the decline in Canadian travelers heading to the U.S. due to the weak Canadian dollar and political factors, with more locals opting for domestic vacations instead. This has resulted in an uptick in Canadian campground reservations, highlighting the economic shifts that are reshaping travel habits. Brent Fullerton, general manager of Carefree RV, provided insights into customer service strategies that are refining RV sales and rentals. He discussed the industry’s need to improve the service experience, especially given labor shortages and the challenge of keeping up with seasonal demand. Brent emphasized that while the RV industry has traditionally been laid-back, the current economic climate requires a more proactive approach to customer service, faster response times, and greater efficiency in handling repairs and parts shortages. He also noted the importance of adapting to changing consumer expectations, particularly in an era where customers demand high-quality service and instant solutions. Arthur Jason, CEO of AC Future, introduced his company’s AI-powered transformer homes, which were recently showcased at CES 2025. These modular, off-grid living spaces use artificial intelligence to optimize energy use, harvest water from the air, and create a self-sustaining environment. Arthur explained how these units offer a high-end, flexible alternative to traditional housing and could redefine the concept of mobile living. He also touched on their potential application for glamping, RV parks, and sustainable outdoor accommodations, making them an attractive option for operators looking to enhance guest experiences with cutting-edge technology. Greg Emmert and Brian explored the broader implications of AI-driven housing and its role in shaping the future of outdoor travel. They discussed the potential for these homes to be integrated into themed glamping resorts, offering curated experiences that cater to specific demographics. From a Mars-themed desert retreat to a high-tech forest getaway, these modular homes could provide a unique alternative to traditional cabins and yurts, pushing the boundaries of outdoor hospitality. The conversation also touched on the larger societal shifts toward automation and AI, with Brian speculating on the impact of robotic assistants in everyday life. He noted that fully functional humanoid robots could be available within the next few years for as little as $20,000 to $30,000, potentially transforming domestic life and further influencing travel habits. The panel debated whether these advancements would lead to greater mobility, with people embracing flexible, technology-driven living spaces instead of traditional homes. As the episode wrapped up, each guest reflected on the opportunities and challenges ahead. Arthur reiterated his commitment to bringing AC Future’s homes to Canada, while Brent acknowledged the need for continued innovation in the RV industry to meet evolving customer demands. Angele emphasized that regardless of technological advancements, the fundamental appeal of outdoor recreation remains the same: people seek connection with nature and meaningful experiences. The episode served as a deep dive into the intersection of outdoor hospitality, technology, and shifting consumer behaviors. With innovative solutions like AI-powered homes and evolving approaches to RV sales and rentals, the industry is adapting to a changing landscape where customer expectations, economic pressures, and sustainability concerns are reshaping the future of travel and outdoor living.