From Plans to Practice: Building Calm, Capable Leadership in a Crisis

When it comes to camp leadership, few responsibilities matter more than being prepared for the unexpected. In this episode of The Day Camp Pod, your hosts are joined by Dr. Barry Garst, Tracey Gaslin and Tim Huchton to unpack what true emergency preparedness really looks like in today’s camp environment. From building practical, usable plans to strengthening relationships with local emergency services and empowering staff to think critically under pressure, this conversation is both strategic and deeply actionable. You’ll walk away with research backed insights, real world examples and tangible resources you can bring back to your team immediately. If safety, decisive leadership, and proactive planning are priorities for you, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

04:36 The Importance of Emergency Preparedness

06:14 Developing Practical Emergency Plans

10:01 Tools and Resources for Camps

24:48 Building Relationships with Emergency Services

27:48 Building Local Relationships for Unique Camps

28:56 Involving Local Agencies in Training

31:29 Critical Thinking in Emergency Preparedness

36:25 Empowering Staff with Decision-Making Skills

44:11 Emergency Preparedness Research Project

47:39 Alliance for Camp Health Resources

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Episode Links:

The Safety Navigator

MESH(+) Resources

CampWell

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Your Hosts:

Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day Camp
Sam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park District
Jordanna Grossinger, Director - Camp Robin Hood

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Your Guests:

Tracey Gaslin, CEO - Alliance for Camp Health
Dr. Barry Garst, Professor and Coordinator, Youth Development Programs - Clemson University
Tim Huchton, President and CEO - Mo-Ranch

Sponsors:

Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible:

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