Work Smarter, Not Harder - with Victoria Golden - The Camp Owners Podcast #72

21 Jan

From Overwhelm to Organized: Building Systems That Actually Work

Running a camp is demanding, but it doesn’t have to be exhausting. Your host Howie and guest host Jordanna from the Day Camp Pod, are joined by systems expert Victoria Golden of Polaris Solutions to explore how camp owners and directors can work smarter, not harder. From taming expense tracking to building task and project management systems that actually stick, this conversation is packed with practical, real world ideas you can apply right away. Victoria brings a fresh, thoughtful perspective on using technology and systems to reduce friction while still preserving the personal, relationship driven heart of camp. You’ll hear honest insights about change management, staff buy in and protecting institutional knowledge. If you’re feeling stretched thin and looking for smarter ways to run your camp more effectively, this episode is a must listen!

03:17 Victoria Golden's Journey and Expertise
08:39 Challenges in Camp Operations
11:17 Implementing Efficient Systems
14:53 Succession Planning and Institutional Knowledge
17:33 Navigating Camp Management Software
18:44 Adapting to New Technologies
25:38 The Importance of Relationships in Camp Management
28:43 Challenges in Implementing Changes at Camp
29:28 Building Trust and Buy-In from Staff
30:36 Effective Communication and Problem Solving
32:11 Optimizing Camp Operations: Tools and Techniques
33:54 The Importance of Task Management Systems
35:14 Balancing Efficiency with Personal Touch
44:01 Reflecting and Iterating on Systems
47:15 Rapid Fire Questions with Victoria
49:21 Connecting with Victoria and Final Thoughts

Your Hosts:

Howie Grossinger - Co-owner/Director - Camp Robin Hood, Partner - Camp Walden & Madawaska Camps
Jordanna Grossinger, Director - Camp Robin Hood

Your Guests:

Victoria Golden - Managing Director - Polaris Solutions

Thanks to our sponsors:

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