As the fourth week of the month approaches, it’s time for an in-depth exploration of the RV and Outdoor Recreation Industry. This is your opportunity to gain invaluable insights from top-tier experts and seasoned RVers. Whether you’re an RV business owner, enthusiast, or an outdoor recreation aficionado, this episode is for you.
Our host, Brian Searl, will be joined by recurring guests: Phil Ingrassia, President at the National RV Dealers Association (RVDA); Eleanore Hamm, President at RVDA of Canada; Shane Devenish, Executive Director at the Canadian Recreational Vehicle Association; and Susan Carpenter of the RV Women’s Alliance.
We’re thrilled to announce that Mike Wendland, the vlogger behind RV Lifestyle, and Jeremy Puglisi, the founder of The RV Atlas, will be joining us. These two prominent figures in the RV community will share their experiences and offer valuable perspectives on the future trends of the RV industry.
Mike Wendland has become a significant voice in the RV world through his engaging vlogs on RV Lifestyle. His content, rich with practical advice and personal anecdotes, has guided countless enthusiasts in their RV journeys.
Jeremy Puglisi, with his creation of The RV Atlas, has established a comprehensive resource for RV enthusiasts. His platform not only offers a wealth of information on RV travel and camping but also fosters a vibrant community of like-minded individuals.
Don’t Miss Out! Mark your calendars for November 22, 2023, at 2 PM ET. Be part of a conversation that shapes the future of RVing and outdoor recreation.
This episode is proudly sponsored by AccessParks, the premier broadband service provider serving numerous guests in RV parks, lodges, and national parks nationwide.
November 15 Episode Recap
On November 15th, the MC Fireside Chats episode was streamed live from the KOA Convention & Expo in Las Vegas. Host Brian Searl was joined by a notable lineup from Kampgrounds of America, Inc. (KOA), including Toby O’Rourke, President & CEO; Kimberly Wootton, Vice President of Commercial Strategy; and Cole Reinhardt, Executive Director of Digital Strategy & Transformation. The panel also welcomed Marc Peterson, Owner of Paris Landing/Kentucky Lake KOA Holiday, and Nate Thompson, Partner at KCN Campgrounds. This gathering brought together a diverse group of professionals from the outdoor hospitality industry.
Toby O’Rourke highlighted the convention’s high attendance and the exciting activities planned, including a Beatles-themed Cirque du Soleil show. She emphasized KOA’s focus on providing tools and support for campground businesses and attracting new campers. A significant announcement was the achievement of a 70 Net Promoter Score (NPS), indicating high customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Kimberly Wootteon discussed KOA’s hands-on approach with franchisees, emphasizing the importance of relationships and understanding individual franchisee goals. She highlighted the focus on local marketing, revenue management, business development, and retail to drive camper nights and revenue growth.
Cole Reinhardt spoke about KOA’s commitment to technology and innovation, mentioning his role in keeping the company at the forefront of technological advancements. He stressed the importance of research and staying updated with emerging technologies.
Franchise owners Angie and David Bower from Fancy Gap KOA shared their enthusiasm for the convention and the support they receive from KOA. They appreciated the focus on relationships and the practical tools provided by KOA, like new uniforms for maintenance staff, which help them care for their team like family.
Cam Bowen and Nate Thompson discussed the value of the KOA franchise network, emphasizing the importance of innovation and the support they receive from KOA corporate. They highlighted the significance of relationships and the exchange of ideas at the convention.
Marc Peterson from Paris Landing, Kentucky Lake KOA, expressed his passion for the KOA brand and the value of being part of the franchise. He shared his positive experiences with KOA’s franchise advisory committee and the benefits of being involved in the KOA community.
Toby O’Rourke closed the discussion by emphasizing KOA’s commitment to innovation and connection within the franchise network. She looked forward to the Idea Exchange event, where new ideas are shared to drive action at campgrounds. Her goal was to ensure every franchisee felt supported and connected to the brand.
Overall, the episode was a comprehensive overview of the various facets of KOA’s operations and strategy. From high-level corporate strategies to individual campground operations, the discussion illuminated the diverse components that make up the successful KOA ecosystem. Each guest brought their unique experiences and insights, painting a holistic picture of the outdoor hospitality industry as seen through the lens of KOA.
About MC Fireside Chats
Hosted by Brian Searl, CEO of Insider Perks and Modern Campground, MC Fireside Chats airs live every Wednesday at 2 p.m. (ET). The show brings together industry experts to discuss the latest in camping, glamping, RVing, and more. For a recap of previous episodes, visit moderncampground.com/mc-fireside-chats.