Episodes

During the September 30, 2026, episode of MC Fireside Chats, property operators Stephanie Bias and Munro Murdock emphasized that the future of outdoor hospitality relies on blending invisible backend technology with highly curated, generation-specific guest experiences—ranging from luxury all-inclusive glamping to diverse, nature-focused hybrid parks.

Industry experts on the July 29th MC Fireside Chats emphasized that hospitality operators must first document their internal workflows to successfully adopt AI and digital tools, enabling them to streamline operations, personalize guest experiences, and increase profitability without losing the essential human touch.

Host Brian Searl and a panel of outdoor hospitality experts—including Marie Nichols, Duncan Winship, and Ashley Cary—discussed how international travel apps, changing generational preferences, and data-driven marketing are transforming the modern camping industry.

The latest MC Fireside Chats episode focused on how glamping operators are revolutionizing outdoor hospitality by prioritizing unique, high-touch guest experiences and personal connection, demonstrating that success in the industry, regardless of scale or location, relies on moving beyond simple accommodation.

In this special fifth week episode of MC Fireside Chats, host Brian Searl welcomes three glamping pioneers—from the UK to Costa Rica—for a global look at the evolving outdoor hospitality landscape. The guests dive into everything from guest engagement and winter operations to marketing challenges, AI, and the future of glamping.

The MC Fireside Chats episode on April 30th, 2025, began with host Brian Searl acknowledging technical difficulties at the start of the show. Brian then introduced the guests: Mychele Bisson, Mary Sparrow, and Heidi Royle, each bringing a unique perspective on the outdoor hospitality industry. Mychele Bisson shared her work with Bison Peak Ventures, acquiring campgrounds across the country, revitalizing them, and aiming to preserve the original family’s legacy. She emphasized the importance of maintaining the essence of these establishments while introducing modern improvements. Mary Sparrow discussed her ownership of a boatyard in the east of England and her innovative approach to hospitality with floating glamping pods. Her business evolved from traditional houseboats to unique, luxury floating accommodations, offering guests a distinctive experience on the water. Heidi Royle detailed her journey of establishing the Groove Glamping, a glamping site in Minnesota, located near a state park. She highlighted the natural attractions of the area, such as the clear water creeks and the state park, which enhance the appeal of her glamping site. The discussion then shifted to the concept of “glamping,” with various perspectives on its definition and evolution. The guests explored how glamping has changed over time, influenced by social media and the increasing demand for unique outdoor experiences. The challenges and strategies of promoting and operating glamping sites were also discussed. Heidi Royle shared her experience with influencer collaborations to increase awareness of the Grove Glamping. Mary Sparrow provided insights into the complexities of running a business that combines traditional boating with modern glamping. This included the unique considerations for floating accommodations and the importance of preserving the natural environment. Mychele Bisson spoke about Bison Peak Ventures’ business model of acquiring and upgrading campgrounds, emphasizing the rewarding aspect of providing families with opportunities to connect and create memories in nature. A significant part of the conversation focused on the personal fulfillment derived from operating these businesses. The guests shared stories of the joy and satisfaction that comes from seeing families and children enjoy the outdoors, away from the distractions of modern technology. The episode concluded with the guests sharing their final thoughts and where to find more information about their businesses. The overarching theme was the value of creating unique outdoor experiences and the positive impact these experiences have on individuals and families.

In this episode of MC Fireside Chats, host Brian Searl welcomed Josef Hjelmaker, CEO of Electric Outdoors, Robert Preston, CEO and Founder of Unhitched Management, and Matt and Karina Torres, owners of Bayshore RV Park, to discuss their experiences and insights into the outdoor hospitality and RV park industries. The conversation covered everything from business growth and sustainability to unique guest experiences and the future of the industry. Robert Preston shared his journey from a military pilot to a real estate investor, now owning 14 RV parks through Climb Capital and Unhitched Management. His focus is on fostering a sense of community within his parks, providing spaces where guests can disconnect from daily life and reconnect with nature and each other. He emphasized the importance of safe, clean, and welcoming environments in creating a successful RV park experience. His management philosophy revolves around treating employees well so they, in turn, provide exceptional hospitality to guests. He also spoke about his approach to acquiring and scaling parks, explaining that his growth is based on finding good deals while ensuring that each new acquisition enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of his existing properties. Josef Hjelmaker introduced Electric Outdoors, a company focused on sustainability and innovation in outdoor hospitality. His company develops portable, self-sustaining destination platforms that generate their own energy, manage water, and handle waste independently. The units, designed to be placed in remote or off-grid locations, offer a new way to camp without requiring traditional infrastructure or permits. He explained how these platforms provide flexibility for landowners and park operators, allowing them to create new camping experiences in places previously inaccessible to RVs and traditional campers. The conversation also touched on the growing role of electric vehicles in outdoor recreation, with Josef discussing how his technology supports off-grid stays while accommodating the needs of EV travelers. He highlighted the importance of digital integration, explaining how his platforms use connectivity to enhance user experience through booking, energy management, and local activity recommendations. Matt and Karina Torres shared their experience of acquiring and revitalizing Bayshore RV Park on the Washington coast. Their journey began when Matt, a former framer and general contractor, and Karina, with a background in property management, combined their skills to turn their park into a thriving business. They emphasized the importance of hands-on management, directly engaging with guests to provide personalized service and a welcoming atmosphere. They spoke about their approach to balancing long-term and transient guests, their focus on creating unique experiences such as easy access to crabbing in Willapa Bay, and their strategy for reinvesting profits back into the park. They also discussed their long-term goal of eventually hiring a dedicated manager so they can expand to additional properties while ensuring their guests continue to receive the same level of care and hospitality. The discussion highlighted the changing landscape of the outdoor hospitality industry and the increasing importance of offering more than just a place to stay. The guests agreed that creating meaningful experiences for visitors, whether through high-touch customer service, sustainable accommodations, or fostering a sense of community, is key to long-term success. Brian Searl noted that the industry has thrived for years with minimal effort due to economic conditions, but moving forward, park owners will need to be more intentional about guest experiences to maintain and grow their businesses. He pointed out that travelers are looking for something unique, and parks that can deliver on that will be the ones that stand out in an increasingly competitive market. The conversation also touched on the challenges and rewards of park ownership. Robert spoke about the balance between growth and operational efficiency, explaining that his goal is not just to acquire more properties but to ensure each park is well-run and financially sustainable. He emphasized the importance of hiring entrepreneurial-minded managers who treat the business as their own and make decisions that benefit both guests and ownership. Matt and Karina reflected on their initial struggles and learning experiences, including the realization that hiring the wrong staff can impact guest satisfaction. They shared how they adjusted their management approach to be more involved, ensuring that guests feel valued from the moment they arrive. As the discussion wrapped up, Brian announced the launch of a new podcast called Outwired, which will focus on data, AI, and technology in outdoor hospitality. The show will feature unfiltered discussions on industry trends, innovations, and challenges, with co-hosts Greg Emmert from Camp Strategy and Scott Bahr from Cairn Consulting Group. The episode ended with a shared enthusiasm for the future of the outdoor hospitality industry, with all guests expressing optimism about the opportunities ahead for park owners who are willing to innovate and prioritize guest experiences. The insights from this episode underscored the industry’s evolution, with sustainability, community-building, and technology playing a growing role in shaping the next generation of outdoor accommodations.

In the October 30, 2024 episode of MC Fireside Chats, host Brian Searl brings together several guests to explore various perspectives in outdoor hospitality and the RV industry. The episode features Ken Barber from Wild Haven Glamping, Leslie Taylor-Rharbi from Signature RV Resorts by Zeman, and Paul Craven and Anthony Wollschlager from Airxcel. Brian starts by introducing the guests, encouraging them to share insights about their companies and experiences. Leslie kicks things off by describing her role in managing Zeman’s luxury RV resorts, specifically the “Signature” line, known for providing high-end amenities and tailored experiences. She emphasizes that while they’ve moved away from labeling the resorts as “luxury,” Zeman’s properties continue to offer lush landscapes and a range of amenities like pickleball courts, large clubhouses, and lounges to enhance guest experiences. Ken shares the story of Wild Haven Glamping, discussing how his company provides a mid-tier glamping experience that strikes a balance between comfort and the rustic nature of camping. His properties feature canvas tents and small cabins in scenic locations like Sonoma County and Yosemite, emphasizing a natural and immersive experience over excessive luxury. Ken underscores the challenges they’ve faced, particularly in terms of permits, zoning, and construction, especially with their recent Yosemite property. Despite these hurdles, he and his team focus on delivering unique experiences that attract tourists from across the world. Leslie and Ken agree that evolving guest expectations shape their operations. Leslie notes that Zeman’s properties attract a retiree demographic who expect comfort and quality; however, the increasing demand for “luxury” resorts has redefined the standards of guest experiences, with visitors now expecting amenities akin to high-end hotels. Ken adds that Wild Haven’s guests are typically more open to a stripped-down luxury, opting for a unique natural experience over a traditionally luxurious one. They also touch on the importance of managing expectations through strategic language and marketing, emphasizing terms like “signature” instead of “luxury,” which sets an authentic tone that aligns with their guests’ values. The conversation then shifts to Airxcel, where Anthony and Paul discuss their roles in supplying RV components, such as air conditioners, water heaters, and ventilation systems, that enhance comfort for RV travelers. They explain that Airxcel has a long-standing history in Elkhart, Indiana, the “RV capital” of the U.S., providing essential products to RV manufacturers. Their focus on innovation helps the company anticipate trends, such as the rising demand for sustainable products and off-grid experiences. Paul emphasizes that Airxcel keeps a close watch on industry trends and consumer demands, aiming to deliver products that meet the evolving needs of RV enthusiasts, from full-time RVers to occasional campers. Anthony elaborates on the shift in RV ownership demographics since COVID-19, explaining how younger families and first-time RVers are increasingly investing in the lifestyle. With Airxcel’s established brands, such as Coleman air conditioners and Suburban water heaters, the company leverages its expertise to stay competitive and support new trends in the industry. Paul and Anthony both stress that consumer expectations are driving changes within the RV and camping sectors, where personalization, data-driven guest insights, and seamless technology integration are becoming essential for a superior experience. Brian also dives into potential future trends, sparking an engaging discussion on the influence of AI, automation, and personalization. The guests contemplate how new technology could transform both the outdoor hospitality and RV industries, with Brian suggesting that technology should serve to elevate the guest experience, not detract from it. Ken and Leslie agree, envisioning AI tools that could enable them to provide small, personalized touches, like welcome gifts and birthday recognition, that enhance customer satisfaction without feeling intrusive. Paul underscores the importance of AI in developing more sustainable RV solutions, citing the growing interest in systems that reduce energy use by automatically adjusting to guests’ schedules. Throughout the discussion, the guests emphasize the importance of clear expectations and strong branding. Ken and Leslie both prioritize aligning their offerings with guest expectations, ensuring that their brands promise experiences they can consistently deliver. By avoiding terms like “luxury” and “pampering” in their marketing, both Ken and Leslie are careful to set the right tone for their properties, allowing guests to feel comfortable and engaged in the outdoor experience. The episode concludes with the guests sharing where listeners can find more information about their companies and locations. Ken invites listeners to Wild Haven Glamping in Sonoma County or Yosemite to experience the beauty of Northern California. Leslie and the Airxcel team encourage interested listeners to explore Signature RV Resorts by Zeman and Airxcel’s various product offerings, respectively. The conversation wraps up on a note of optimism, with each guest expressing enthusiasm for the future of outdoor hospitality, the evolution of guest experiences, and the innovations likely to shape the industry in years to come.

In the July 31st episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, the discussion brought together Pier Tognazzini, founder and COO of MooVert France, and Dustin Sauer, owner of Overland Van Project, to delve into the evolving trends in outdoor hospitality, sustainable tourism, and the growing van life movement. Brian Searl kicked off the episode by acknowledging the uniqueness of the discussion, as it was one of those rare “fifth-week” episodes without the usual lineup of regular guests. Instead, this episode featured a deep dive into niche areas of outdoor hospitality, beginning with Pier Tognazzini. Pier introduced MooVert France, a company dedicated to promoting tourism in France through an eco-friendly and authentic lens. He emphasized MooVert France’s commitment to helping accommodations transition into more sustainable practices by using an algorithm that evaluates properties based on their level of eco-friendliness, sustainability, and authenticity. Pier explained that MooVert is not just about reducing environmental impact but also about offering tourists an experience that goes beyond the typical attractions, allowing them to connect deeply with local culture, heritage, and nature. He provided examples of how MooVert curates these experiences, such as offering stays in tree houses, tiny homes, and even traditional French chateaux. Pier also discussed how MooVert helps property owners make small but impactful changes, such as installing water-saving devices, to enhance sustainability without compromising guest comfort. The conversation also touched on the importance of authenticity, with Pier explaining that MooVert prioritizes experiences that allow travelers to engage with local traditions and communities, such as making cheese in Normandy or harvesting honey in the Alps. Dustin Sauer then introduced Overland Van Project, which specializes in creating high-end, custom expedition vehicles and camper vans designed for those seeking adventure and luxury on the road. Dustin shared the origins of his company, which began as a personal project but quickly grew into a thriving business as demand for custom vans surged during the pandemic. He highlighted how the van life movement, amplified by social media and the hashtag #vanlife, has evolved from a niche lifestyle into a significant trend within the outdoor industry. Dustin discussed the challenges and opportunities within the current market, noting that while there has been a plateau in demand following the pandemic boom, there is still a strong interest in high-quality, custom-built vans. He emphasized the importance of innovation and craftsmanship in differentiating Overland Van Project from other builders, with a focus on integrating advanced features such as hydronic heating systems, high-end electrical setups, and luxury finishes that cater to the specific needs of their clients. Despite the market becoming saturated with both DIY and commercially produced vans, Dustin remains optimistic, citing the enduring appeal of van life and the desire for off-the-grid, self-sufficient travel experiences. The conversation between the three touched on the intersection of sustainability and the outdoor lifestyle. Dustin noted that many of his clients, despite investing in luxury vans, prefer to camp in remote, free locations like BLM lands, rather than traditional RV resorts. This aligns with the growing trend towards authentic, nature-based experiences that Pier’s company, MooVert, also champions. The guests and Brian discussed how this shift reflects broader changes in consumer behavior, where travelers are increasingly seeking out unique and meaningful experiences rather than conventional tourist activities. A significant portion of the discussion was devoted to the challenges of marketing to niche audiences in a competitive landscape dominated by large platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com. Pier and Dustin both emphasized the importance of authenticity in their marketing efforts, whether through social media engagement or creating compelling content that resonates with their target audiences. They acknowledged the difficulties small businesses face in standing out, but also highlighted the potential of social media and viral content to level the playing field. Brian also brought up the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in helping small businesses enhance their marketing strategies and reach. He expressed optimism about how AI could assist companies like MooVert France and Overland Van Project in creating more tailored and effective marketing campaigns, thereby connecting with their niche audiences more efficiently. The episode wrapped up with final thoughts from Pier and Dustin on the future of their respective industries. Pier expressed enthusiasm about the potential expansion of MooVert France into North America, hinting at ongoing discussions with state governments in Nevada and California. Dustin, on the other hand, reiterated his commitment to pushing the boundaries of van design and continuing to provide exceptional, high-quality products for his clients. Overall, this episode of MC Fireside Chats provided a rich exploration of the current trends and future directions in outdoor hospitality, with a strong emphasis on sustainability, authenticity, and the evolving desires of modern travelers. The insights shared by Pier Tognazzini and Dustin Sauer offered valuable perspectives on how businesses can adapt and thrive in this dynamic and competitive industry.