SCamp Life: The Other Side

Hosted by Curt Jackson

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Apr 2026

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About the show

A bi-weekly look at big picture questions, concerns, and sometimes unpopular opinions in the summer camp industry in hopes of stimulating well rounded conversations among camp teams.

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48 recent

April 1, 20261 hr 11 min

Episode 48: Not All Camp “Grit” is Healthy

What responsibility do camp leaders have in shaping workplace culture, and what happens when that culture turns toxic? In this episode of SCamp Life: The Other Side, Kelie and Shauna sit down with Katie Grenci to explore the realities of toxic leadership in camp settings. Katie reflects on her experience as a manager, the warning signs she encountered, and the lasting impact on both staff and campers. This episode doesn’t just tell a story; it challenges leaders to reflect, do better, and actively create environments where people can thrive.Katie’s Contact: Katie Grenci

February 2, 20261 hr 17 min

Episode 47: She has legs, ya’ll!: Meeting IRL @ the Women in Camp Summit

What happens when two podcast hosts who’ve only known each other virtually finally meet in real life? In this episode, Kelie and Shauna take you to the Women in Camp Summit, where they met in person for the first time. They swap stories, reflect on standout sessions, and talk about why spaces created by women in camp for women in camp are so powerful. If you love professional development, camp people, and a little behind-the-scenes reflection, this one’s for you.

December 18, 20251 hr 59 min

Episode 46: The Night the River Rose

Trigger Warnings: Child death, drowning, religious trauma.This episode investigates the deadly overnight flood at Camp Mystic in Kerr County, Texas. We break down the events leading up to the tragedy, the emergency failures that left campers vulnerable, and the long-standing flood-warning and safety gaps that contributed to the loss of life. Drawing on verified reporting, survivor accounts, and public records, we examine what went wrong — and what must change to protect young people in the future.Timeline Link

October 21, 202536 min

New Season, Who dis?

Kelie and Shauna are back behind the mic for a brand-new season of SCampLife: The Other Side! In this opening episode, the duo catch up after a whirlwind summer—swapping stories, sharing lessons learned, and laughing through the highs (and the chaos) of camp life. Plus, Kelie drops a big announcement you won’t want to miss!

May 20, 202547 min

Episode 44: Tri-State Tales & Tangents

Kelie is back from the American Camp Association Tri-State Conference, and she’s bringing all the energy (and a few unexpected side quests) to this episode! Join Kelie and Shauna as they dive into Kelie’s favorite sessions, biggest takeaways, and ideas that camp professionals won’t want to miss. Of course, it wouldn’t be The Other Side without a few classic “Squirrel!” moments—because when camp people talk, things are bound to get a little off-trail.

March 5, 202547 min

Episode 43: Camp Counsel (But Not That Kind)

Hosts Kelie and Shauna break down how executive orders, local laws, and policy changes could impact the camp industry. From staffing regulations to funding shifts, they explore what camp professionals need to know—without the legal jargon. But let’s be clear: they’re not lawyers, and this isn’t legal advice—just two camp pros with microphones trying to make sense of the rules that shape our summers.LINKSExecutive OrdersAfter School and Summer Learning ProgramsRemoval of DEI Language and ProgrammingJackson Walker Legal Summary of Immigration Related Executive OrdersMayer Brown Legal Summary for Enhanced Screening and VettingWant to add to our conversation?  Have a question you want us to discuss?Email Us: exploringcampsides@gmail.com

February 19, 20251 hr 2 min

Episode 42: Building Neurodiverse Teams: ADHD as a Strength in the Camp Industry

In this episode, hosts Kelie and Shauna continue the conversation on embracing ADHD in camp leadership with special guests Travis Allison (GoCampPro) and Kate Taylor (Camp Industry Consultant). This is Part 2 of our discussion—catch Part 1 over on Camp Hacker!We dive into ADHD as a superpower in the camp world, how to recognize ADHD in your staff, practical tools to support neurodivergent team members, and share personal stories of navigating camp life with ADHD. Whether you have ADHD, work with someone who does, or just want to build a more inclusive, strengths-based team, this episode is for you!Tune in now and let’s rethink what it means to lead with ADHD!LINKSKate TaylorConfessions of a Camp Pro with ADHD- Camp Hacker Episode #209

February 6, 20251 hr 23 min

Episode 41: Behavior Policies Aren’t Just for Campers?! Navigating Caregiver Expectations with Emily Golinsky

Policies and procedures aren’t just for campers—they apply to caregivers too! In this episode, Kelie and Shauna welcome back Emily Golinsky of Bright Moose Training to dive into the world of behavior policies and procedures for both campers and their grown-ups. They break down the difference between a policy and a procedure, discuss when to be flexible, and explore how to balance empathy for upset caregivers while maintaining boundaries and respect for staff. Whether you’re a camp pro, educator, or youth program leader, this episode will give you the tools to navigate tricky conversations with confidence.Bright Moose TrainingTrackers Earth Camp “Because Knives” Behavior PolicyMichael Brandwein American Camp Association, IL Merch

January 22, 20251 hr 20 min

Episode 40: Behind the Scenes of Camp Management

In this episode, Shauna is out with the flu, so Kelie takes the lead and sits down with Dr. Chad Nelson to dive into the fascinating history and ever-changing industry of summer camp. They tackle the big question—is camp a real job?—and share invaluable advice for current, veteran, and new camp managers and directors. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration to help you thrive in the camp industry!LINKSDr. Chad Nelson Bio and Contact InfoWant to add to our conversation?  Have a question you want us to discuss? Email Us: exploringcampsides@gmail.com

January 7, 202547 min

Episode 39: It’s Camper Registration Season!

It’s camper registration season! What are parents and caregivers looking for in a camp? Who makes the final decision about which camp to attend? How much communication is too much communication? Kelie and Shauna chat with Courtney Russell, camp parent, to answer all of your burning questions. Listen in as Courtney dishes the downlow on camp choices and Shauna goes on a soapbox about providing as much information as you can to the camp director.