The May 21st, 2025 episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, convened a panel of esteemed recurring and special guests to delve into pivotal topics within the outdoor hospitality and recreation industry. The familiar voices joining the conversation included Mike Harrison of CRR Hospitality, a company focused on owning and operating luxury upscale RV and glamping resorts, as well as providing third-party consulting. Ali Rasmussen, co-founder of Spacious Skies Campgrounds, which owns and operates campgrounds along the East Coast from Maine to Georgia, also returned, expressing enthusiasm for the upcoming season. Rounding out the recurring panel was Jeff Hoffman from Camp Strategy, a consulting firm dedicated to helping campground owners achieve profitability. This episode welcomed two special guests. Heidi Doyle from Utility Supply Group (USG) introduced her company as a key electrical distributor for the outdoor hospitality sector, serving RV parks, campgrounds, marinas, and glamping resorts. Heidi emphasized USG’s commitment to not just supplying products but also ensuring safety and compliance by actively working with the National Electric Code and UL standards for power outlets. The second special guest was Jim Omstrom, co-founder of Open Road Resorts. Jim shared that Open Road Resorts owns a growing portfolio of campgrounds across the United States, including locations near Dallas, Santa Fe, West Yellowstone, and Omaha, with a focus on acquiring and developing more properties. Before diving into the special guest segments, Brian prompted the recurring panelists for any pressing industry topics. Mike Harrison immediately highlighted the continued and accelerating growth of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the camping sector. He referenced a recent generational camping report indicating that 30% of campers have already used AI for search, a figure expected to rise to 75% in the coming years. Mike stressed the importance for industry players to stay ahead of the curve as generative search and Google’s prioritization of AI are set to revolutionize how campers find and book their stays. Jeff Hoffman echoed Mike’s sentiments, noting the rapid learning capabilities of AI and its daily improvements, particularly when actively trained. Ali Rasmussen added her experience, mentioning a demo she encountered built within ChatGPT that functioned as an itinerary and trip planner for one of their campground locations, showcasing the practical applications of AI for enhancing guest services. Beyond AI, Ali Rasmussen, also a board member of OHI (Outdoor Hospitality Industry), brought a critical legislative issue to the forefront: the Credit Card Competition Act. She explained that this bipartisan bill aims to address the duopoly of Visa and MasterCard, which has led to escalating credit card swipe fees – a significant expense for campground owners, often ranking in their top five operational costs. Ali detailed the unique impact on campgrounds, where multiple transactions (booking, changes, cancellations, re-bookings) can incur non-refundable swipe fees, even when guests are refunded. Mike Harrison and Jeff Hoffman shared that they had previously lobbied in Washington D.C. on this very issue, underscoring its importance. They urged listeners to visit OHI’s social media pages for links to contact their representatives and voice their support for the act, emphasizing that it affects all businesses accepting credit cards, not just RV parks. Heidi Doyle mentioned that for Utility Supply Group’s larger transactions, credit card fees are often passed on to the customer, while smaller orders’ fees are absorbed. Brian acknowledged the pervasiveness of these fees, even with third-party payment systems. The conversation then shifted to a deeper dive with the special guests. Heidi Doyle elaborated on Utility Supply Group’s long-standing presence in the industry, noting their 26-year history initiated by Wade Elliot. She explained USG’s...

In a recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, host Brian Searl of Insider Perks kicked off the conversation by lightheartedly addressing his scratchy voice and acknowledging the absence of several regular panelists, including Joe Duemig, who was attending a conference in Australia, Scott Foos, who had a meeting, and Kevin Thueson, who was traveling. Despite these absences, Searl enthusiastically introduced the two featured guests: John Handy, co-owner of Treebones Resort, and Devon Towle, Founder and CEO of Global Glamping, also known as Sir Glamps-a-lot. John Handy shared the 20-year journey of establishing Treebones Resort in Big Sur with his wife Corinne. He recounted the serendipitous rezoning of their oceanfront property to commercial use and their subsequent decade-long exploration of creating a unique lodging experience. Handy explained that the concept of “glamping” didn’t even exist when they began, but their vision was to offer an experience that combined the closeness to nature of camping with the comforts of a hotel, leading them to discover yurts. He highlighted the significant financial risks they undertook with business and construction loans, contrasting their approach with the revenue-sharing models discussed later. Handy emphasized that the success of Treebones lies in its unique location, the dedicated on-site staff, and the array of amenities, including fine dining with a sushi bar and lodge restaurant, massage, yoga, a pool, spa, and jacuzzi, all while maintaining a low carbon footprint. Devon Towle, or Sir Glamps-a-lot, detailed his entrepreneurial journey, starting from a background in architecture and housing consultation to founding Global Glamping. He shared how his initial foray into glamping began with a single yurt on raw land in Montana, which surprisingly led to recognition as one of the best Hipcamps in the state. This experience highlighted the potential of the industry and the need for guidance, prompting him to establish Global Glamping. Towle proudly mentioned the company’s growth to 15 resorts with over a hundred short-term rentals and their specialization in eco-tourism development. He was particularly excited to be calling in from their Guardian Ranch location in San Diego, showcasing 3D-printed tiny houses from Azure Printed Homes, emphasizing the rapid construction and eco-friendly nature of these units made from recycled materials. The conversation then shifted to the topic of bootstrapping versus seeking investment capital. Towle shared his experience of creatively financing his ventures, including a “Glamping Rev Share” model that allowed him to partner with landowners and structure providers. He emphasized that the barrier to entry in glamping can be significantly lower than traditional real estate investments, allowing entrepreneurs to start with modest means and grow creatively. Searl resonated with this, sharing his own experiences of building his business without significant initial investment and highlighting the flexibility and potential rewards of a bootstrapped approach. Both Handy and Towle agreed on the importance of agility and the ability to pivot in business. Handy used a compelling ship analogy, stating that a ship in a harbor is safe but not fulfilling its purpose, and that forward motion is necessary for steering. He shared examples of unforeseen challenges like road closures and economic shifts that require constant adaptation. Towle echoed this, emphasizing that nothing ever goes exactly to plan and that perseverance and the willingness to pivot are crucial for entrepreneurs in the often unpredictable world of eco-tourism and glamping. The discussion touched upon the role of technology in their businesses. Handy highlighted how Starlink internet and advancements in battery storage systems have been game-changers for Treebones, especially given their off-grid location. He also spoke about their adoption of Azure 3D-printed homes as an eco-conscious lodging option.

In a recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, host Brian Searl led a comprehensive discussion on the evolving landscape of the outdoor hospitality and recreation industry. The episode featured recurring guests, industry experts who appear regularly on the show, and special guests who brought specific insights to the conversation. Recurring guests Scott Bahr, Simon Neal, and Mark Koep offered their perspectives on current trends and challenges. Mark Koep, in particular, focused on the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its implications for marketing strategies within the industry. He argued that traditional methods, such as relying heavily on Google search, may become less effective as AI-driven search results gain prominence. Brian Searl expanded on this point, noting the increasing sophistication of AI and its capacity to generate synthetic data, which could further disrupt established online business models. The guests emphasized the importance of campground owners and operators staying informed about AI and adapting their strategies to remain competitive. The discussion then shifted to the physical aspects of campgrounds, with Scott Bahr raising questions about the trend towards developing very large RV parks. He expressed concern about their long-term sustainability and whether they might become obsolete like shopping malls. This sparked a broader conversation about the ideal size and design of campgrounds, with panelists weighing the benefits of large-scale operations against the appeal of more intimate, niche-focused experiences. Mary Arlington, a special guest with extensive experience in the campground industry, shared her insights on this topic. She acknowledged the existence of very large parks but emphasized that many successful campgrounds focus on creating a strong sense of community and catering to specific customer needs. Another special guest, Brian Linton, contributed to the discussion by providing a perspective from the glamping sector. He explained that glamping sites, which often involve more luxurious accommodations than traditional camping, can be economically viable even with a smaller number of sites. Linton also highlighted the importance of storytelling and creating engaging content to attract guests. Simon Neal, a recurring guest from Europe, offered a different viewpoint, describing the European campground market and its unique characteristics. He noted the prevalence of seasonal travel and the trend towards investing in high-quality amenities to enhance the guest experience. Neal also discussed the concept of organizing campgrounds into distinct “neighborhoods” to cater to diverse preferences. The episode also explored ancillary revenue streams for campgrounds, such as pet-related services. Guests shared ideas for offering pet amenities and products to enhance the customer experience and generate additional income. Furthermore, the panelists considered the potential impact of emerging technologies like VR and AR on the outdoor hospitality industry. While acknowledging that these technologies are unlikely to replace traditional camping experiences, they discussed their potential for marketing and attracting new customers. Finally, Mary Arlington took the opportunity to introduce “Rivers and Rockies,” a new association serving campground owners in several states. She explained its mission to provide localized support and address the specific needs of park owners in the region. Throughout the episode, host Brian Searl guided the discussion and encouraged the guests to share their expertise and insights. The conversation provided valuable information and perspectives for campground owners, operators, and anyone interested in the future of the outdoor hospitality industry.

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 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...

April 16th Episode Recap The episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl of Insider Perks, convened a diverse panel of industry professionals including recurring guests Jeff Hoffman (Camp Strategy), Mike Harrison (CRR Hospitality), and Sandy Ellingson (Industry Liaison/Consultant), alongside special guests Kurtis Wilkins (Private Equity Analyst, Rjourney), Jennifer L. Grissom (Co-Owner, Crystal River KOA), and Yolanda “Yo’EL” D’Oyen (Owner, ARK@Denali Campground Resort). The comprehensive discussion explored crucial aspects of the outdoor hospitality sector, focusing on operational strategies, the interpretation of market data, adapting to consumer shifts, and navigating the increasing trend of institutional investment. Brian Searl opened the show by introducing the panel and highlighting recent technological advancements from Insider Perks. He announced the rollout of Rigsby, their AI voice chatbot, which is now capable of handling reservations via chat and is soon expected to offer voice reservation capabilities. Brian emphasized that this innovation is poised to be a significant disruptor in the industry, providing 24/7 booking options and eliminating common issues like busy signals, acknowledging that early adoption may involve a testing phase. The conversation quickly turned to industry data, prompted by insights drawn from the KOA North American Camping Report. Sandy Ellingson shared her positive takeaways, noting substantial increases in camping households and high retention rates among campers who began during the pandemic. She also highlighted encouraging growth in specific accommodation types, such as a significant rise in tent usage. However, Sandy expressed concern that some parks were limiting tent camping, which she sees as a vital “onboarding” method for introducing younger generations to camping, and advocated for viewing tent and car camping as strategic tools. Providing additional perspective on the data, Mike Harrison and Kurtis Wilkins cautioned against solely comparing current figures to 2019 (pre-pandemic) growth, which naturally saw a massive surge. While acknowledging continued overall interest, they stressed the importance of analyzing recent year-over-year changes and noted signs of potential headwinds, including recent nationwide dips in consumer activity in Q1 and April. Kurtis specifically highlighted that Rjourney is observing tighter booking windows, making forecasting more challenging despite no overall drop in bookings. A key theme discussed was the need for campgrounds to adapt to the evolving consumer. Mike Harrison pointed out that demographic data in some CRR Hospitality resorts shows a nearly equal distribution across age groups (Baby Boomers to Gen Z), necessitating varied marketing strategies across different platforms to reach each segment effectively. He and Kurtis Wilkins stressed the importance of adopting “experiential hospitality” to make stays a lifestyle experience and utilizing technology for simple enhancements, not just complex systems, to cater to the modern traveler. Kurtis Wilkins emphasized that understanding each park’s specific demographic and location is crucial for effective microtargeting in marketing efforts, noting that even regional terminology like “campground” versus “RV park” matters. He stressed the critical need for operators to closely monitor operational data such as pace reports, leads, and conversion rates at a granular level to identify demographic shifts and pivot strategies quickly in response to market changes, including those influenced by external factors. Jennifer L. Grissom shared her firsthand experience as a new owner/developer of the Crystal River KOA, which opened recently. She spoke about the success of her first year, exceeding initial projections, but also highlighted the operational challenges posed by the current narrow booking window that complicates forecasting. Jennifer discussed her surprise regarding the volume of tent...

This MC Fireside Chats episode on April 9th, 2025, hosted by Brian Searl from Insider Perks, brought together a panel of experts to discuss the current state and future trends of the outdoor hospitality industry. The recurring guests, Joe Duemig, the owner and founder of App My Community, a company specializing in mobile apps for campground guest engagement and communication, and Kevin Thueson, a partner at KCN Campgrounds, a real estate investment firm operating a portfolio of nine KOA franchise parks, were joined by special guests Lucy Comer, the co-owner and founder of Hadspen Glamping, an off-grid glamping site in Southwest England, and Jen Rice, the general manager at Empire Recreation Management and WhoaZone, which develops water-based family entertainment centers. The central theme of the discussion revolved around the anticipated impact of the prevailing economic uncertainty and the rapidly evolving sociopolitical landscape on camper behavior in the 2025 season. Brian Searl initiated the conversation by referencing early data that suggested an uptick in reservations for early 2025 compared to the previous year. However, this optimistic outlook was immediately challenged by Kevin Thueson, who reported seeing a contrary trend within KCN Campgrounds, with reservations currently lagging behind the same period last year. He attributed this hesitancy among travelers to the continued uncertainty stemming from various factors, including the recent election and ongoing rapid changes. Joe Duemig offered a more nuanced perspective, suggesting that the impact of these uncertainties would likely vary significantly depending on the specific characteristics of individual campgrounds. He posited that factors such as the type of park (e.g., destination-focused versus en-route stops) and its geographical location would play a crucial role in determining its resilience. He voiced particular concern for campgrounds that heavily cater to snowbirds and those with a significant portion of their clientele coming from Canada, given the existing political tensions and reported decrease in border crossings. While acknowledging the historical trend of campgrounds performing well during economic downturns as a more affordable travel option, Joe Duemig cautioned that the recent increase in campground rates might alter this dynamic. He advised campground owners to proactively develop backup plans to mitigate potential negative impacts. Kevin Thueson further elaborated on the booking trends, suggesting that the current situation might not necessarily indicate a crisis but rather a reversion to pre-pandemic travel patterns. He recalled that before the surge in early and extended bookings during COVID-19, the majority of reservations were typically made much closer to the stay date. He also pointed out the significant decline in international travel since the onset of the pandemic and the slow pace of its recovery, which could influence the impact of current international travel advisories. He emphasized the importance of differentiating between overnight or journey-style parks, which traditionally experience slower reservation pick-up, and destination parks that often see bookings well in advance. Shifting the focus to the UK market, Lucy Comer provided an insightful perspective from Hadspen Glamping. She reported a substantial cost of living crisis in the UK, which has influenced travel patterns. Interestingly, despite this economic pressure, their bookings for April were double compared to the same month in the previous year. However, she also noted a clear trend of people opting for more local vacations and a significant decrease in international travel to their site. Lucy Comer highlighted that Hadspen Glamping’s success lies in offering a unique experience centered around sustainability, its off-grid nature, and its deep connection with the local environment and suppliers. She emphasized that they are selling an escape and an experience...

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...