Camp is “the Anti-AI” and The Nature of Leadership - with Andy Pritikin - Intentional Intentionally Leaders

Written By Matt Wilfrid

Raising the Bar: A Masterclass in Camp Intentionality with Andy Pritikin

In this episode of Intentionally Intentional Leaders, Matt Wilfrid sits down with Andy Pritikin, a true powerhouse in the summer camp industry. From founding Liberty Lake Day Camp to producing the New Jersey Renaissance Fair and hosting the Day Camp Podcast, Andy has spent decades "sharpening the sword" of youth development.

Through the roll of a 20-sided die, Andy shares how his background as a rock musician and a student teacher shaped his belief that leadership is earned through relationships, not titles. We dive deep into why camp is the ultimate antidote to an AI-driven world and how directors can navigate the tricky waters of transparency and candor in a modern camp setting.

Key Takeaways include:

  • Earned Respect vs. Authoritarianism: Andy reflects on his early days as a music teacher to explain why "collared shirts and walkie-talkies" don't grant authority. True leadership requires constant deposits into the "relationship piggy bank" with your staff.

  • The Anti-AI Value Proposition: In an age where even a trip to the gym involves earbuds and screens, Andy discusses why camp is uniquely positioned as a "religion of nature." It’s the one place where kids can focus purely on being human.

  • The "Silo" Trap: Discover why lifelong learning - attending conferences, listening to podcasts, and visiting other camps - is the only way to avoid the toxic stagnation often found in traditional "teacher's rooms."

  • Emotional Safety over "The Trains": Andy shares a profound insight on prioritizing emotional safety and belonging over administrative efficiency. While a schedule is a necessary framework, it should never steamroll the chance for a meaningful, life-changing interaction.

  • The Art of Candor: Navigating the balance between transparency and keeping things "in the vault." Andy explains why staff need to be coached on candor and why "how the sausage is made" isn't always a conversation for the whole camp.

  • Forgiving the Mistakes: From "sunscreen machines" that didn't work to hiring mishaps, Andy shares his mantra: "All you can do is the best you can do." Learn why humility and a "glass-half-full" perspective are essential for a long-term career in camping.

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Links for this Episode:

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Whereabouts

Your mission is campers. Ours is making their experience coordinated and connected.

Whereabouts  is the only camper management system that keeps Parents, Admin, and Staff in sync in real time — so every camper’s day runs with confidence, clarity, and care. Check them out whereaboutsapp.io/

Matt Wilfrid https://gocamp.pro/matt
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Howie Grossinger on Progress, Perfection, and 80 Years of Camp - Intentional Intentionally Leaders