We're on a Real Podcast!
May 22, 2026
Find show notes and more at https://gocamp.pro/ownerspod/building…
Creating Camp Culture Before the First Camper Arrives: Inside the Journey of Turning a Camp Dream Into Reality
Launching a brand-new camp from scratch is no small feat, and in the final episode of season 6, Lauren Beckwith and Stacey Levy pull back the curtain on how they turned a shared vision into Camp Eastwood. Drawing on decades of experience at some of the industry’s most respected camps, they share practical insights on everything from designing age appropriate programming to creating culture, traditions and staff systems before the first camper even arrived. Whether you’re dreaming about starting a camp, refreshing your current program, or simply love hearing how great camp ideas come to life, this episode is packed with thoughtful leadership lessons and real world strategy. It’s an inspiring look at what it takes to build something meaningful from the ground up and why intentionality matters every step of the way.
04:52 Meet Camp Eastwood
06:58 Friendship Origin Story
10:06 Why Eastwood Exists
14:09 Property Site Setup
17:00 Timeline Roles Split
20:46 How They Got Asked
26:10 Building Program Philosophy
34:55 Designing For Young Kids
39:27 Forest Friends Values
41:37 Session Length Flexibility
43:04 Staff Training Approach
46:57 Reset Between Sessions
52:05 Developmental Programming Wins
54:18 Mentorship Leadership Lessons
56:51 Rapid Fire Favorites
Your Hosts: Howie Grossinger - Co-owner/Director - Camp Robin Hood, Partner - Camp Walden & Madawaska Camps
Kelly Schuna - Owner - Hidden Pines Ranch
Your Guests: Lauren Beckwith - Co-Director - Camp Eastwood
Stacey Levy - Co-Director - Camp Eastwood
Thanks to our sponsors: Camptivities Your staff work late into the night to create perfect camper schedules. Prevent mid-summer burnout with Camptivities — the smart scheduling software that saves time, reduces mistakes, and keeps your team energized. Find out more at camptivities.com