Fall is here and you know what that means: pumpkin spice lattes, crisp walks, and a new season of the Camp Owners Podcast! We’re especially excited because our very own founder and CEO, Ryan Rosen, is the first guest of the season.
If you’ve read our article, Evaluating through the Lens of Business Intelligence, you’ll love this podcast conversation. Ryan dives into how camps can evaluate their past seasons, set clear business objectives, and start planning for Summer 2026. It’s a practical, thoughtful listen that’s perfect for anyone who wants to grow their camp with intention.
Grab your PSL, pop in your earbuds, and take this episode with you on your next fall walk. You’ll walk away with strategies and inspiration you can put to work right away.
But why stop there? Podcasts are an amazing way to stay sharp as a camp professional. They bring you new perspectives, concrete business lessons, and sometimes just the spark you need to try something new. Here are five of our favorite podcasts that are great for the business of camp:
1. Go Camp Pro Podcasts
Whether you’re a camp director, program staffer, or in operations, there’s a podcast here for you. Each one tackles a different side of camp life with real stories, actionable advice, and perspectives from people who have lived it.
Pick your podcast here: Spotify Playlist | Apple Podcasts | Web Browser |
2. Acquired
Episode Highlight: Costco (Season 12, Episode 2)
Did you know Costco’s top executives started as baggers and checkout clerks? This episode digs into how a strong culture, loyalty, and consistent strategy built one of the world’s most trusted brands—lessons every camp leader can use.
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Web Browser
3. ACQ2
Episode Highlight: Building the Savannah Bananas
The Bananas’ “Fans First” model is a masterclass in reimagining tradition while keeping community at the center—something camps are always balancing.
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Web Browser
Bonus: Epic Systems (MyChart)
We loved learning how Epic bakes their mission into daily life (literally putting their mission statement in the bathroom!) and creates spaces—like their Harry Potter room—that resonate with the next generation.
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Web Browser
4. How I Built This with Guy Raz
This one’s a classic. Guy Raz interviews founders from every industry, pulling back the curtain on the real journey of building something from the ground up. Just like camp, it’s a reminder that success comes with grit, setbacks, and resilience.
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Web Browser
5. Radical Candor: Communication at Work
Kim Scott’s framework for giving feedback is game-changing. This podcast explores how to care personally and challenge directly—skills every camp professional needs when leading staff or working with parents.
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Web Browser
Bonus Pick: A Bit of Optimism with Simon Sinek
If you need an energy boost or fresh perspective, Simon Sinek always delivers. His thoughtful conversations with leaders across industries can inspire you and mentor your staff.
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re commuting to visit camp families, rethinking your summer programming, or taking that much-needed fall walk, these fun podcasts can help spark ideas that for Summer 2026 planning.
And if you haven’t already, don’t miss Ryan Rosen on the first episode of the new Camp Owners Podcast season. It’s the perfect kickoff for your Fall professional development playlist.
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Web Browser
