This Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at 2 PM EST, MC Fireside Chats dives into the nuts and bolts of Business Operations and Management in the outdoor hospitality industry. As the sector evolves, so do the demands on infrastructure, investment, and innovation—and this week’s episode brings those dynamics into sharp focus.
Joining host Brian are special guests Heidi Doyle, Electrical Product Specialist at Utility Supply Group, and James Omstrom, Co-Founder of Open Road Resorts. Doyle will unpack the growing importance of electrical systems in campgrounds and RV parks—particularly as electric vehicle adoption accelerates and guest expectations continue to evolve. Omstrom will share how developers can finance and future-proof resort infrastructure while balancing sustainability with long-term profitability.
We’re also joined once again by our regular industry voices: Jeff Hoffman, Board Member at OHI, Sandy Ellingson, a renowned RV Industry Advisor, Ali Rasmussen, CEO of Spacious Skies Campground, Chris Jeub, Owner of Monument Glamping, and Mike Harrison, Chief Operating Officer at CRR Hospitality.
From utility upgrades to investment insights, this episode offers campground owners, developers, and operators actionable strategies to stay competitive in a rapidly transforming landscape.
May 14th Episode Recap
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. Towle also emphasized the speed to market and cost-effectiveness of the 3D-printed homes. Both expressed excitement about future technological advancements, including the potential of AI in design and 3D printing.
Searl raised the topic of disconnecting in a hyper-connected world, sharing his own recent experience of the benefits of unplugging. Handy recounted a story about the Wall Street Journal inquiring about their “prepare to unplug” message from their early days, noting the initial resistance from some guests but also the eventual appreciation for the opportunity to disconnect. He mentioned that while technology has advanced at Treebones, they still maintain areas where guests can intentionally unplug.
Looking towards the future, Handy expressed that Treebones Resort would remain family-owned and operated, with the next generation taking on leadership roles. He emphasized their commitment to maintaining the essence of Treebones – perching lightly on the land, living simply, and connecting with nature – even as they evolve. Towle shared his vision for Global Glamping, aiming to create affordable, eco-friendly living communities and develop a gamified app to enhance the ecotourism experience. He expressed a long-term goal of securing larger-scale funding to expand these communities for midterm and long-term living, promoting a lifestyle connected to nature and entrepreneurship.
In closing, Searl expressed his admiration for the work of both Handy and Towle, predicting a bright future for their ventures and the eco-tourism industry as a whole. He underscored the power of inspiring others through their innovative approaches to hospitality and sustainable living.
About MC Fireside Chats
MC Fireside Chats is a live podcast experience dedicated to the outdoor hospitality and outdoor recreation industries. Hosted by Brian Searl, founder and CEO of Insider Perks and Modern Campground, the show offers engaging discussions with industry leaders, innovators, and experts shaping the future of camping, RVing, glamping, and outdoor recreation.
Airing every Wednesday at 2 p.m. (ET), the show follows a structured weekly theme to deliver deep dives into the most relevant topics:
- Week 1: Industry Trends & Insights
- Week 2: Enhancing Guest Experience
- Week 3: Business Operations & Management
- Week 4: RV Industry, Outdoor Recreation & Activities
Each episode features a panel of recurring guests, complemented by 1–2 rotating special guests, including industry analysts, campground owners, technology providers, sustainability advocates, and more. Whether exploring the latest market trends or innovative guest experience strategies, MC Fireside Chats delivers thought-provoking insights for professionals and enthusiasts across the outdoor recreation spectrum.
To explore previous episodes of MC Fireside Chats, visit: moderncampground.com/mc-fireside-chats.