Modern Campground invites outdoor hospitality professionals to explore the art of digital storytelling in campground marketing during the upcoming “MC Fireside Chats” episode on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at 2 PM ET.
This week’s discussion, focusing on Marketing, AI, and Technology, will feature recurring industry leaders Kurtis Wilkins, Private Equity Analyst at RJourney.com; Cara Csizmadia, President of CCRVA.ca; Matt Whitermore, Director of Market Expansion at Climb Capital; and Mychele Bisson, CEO of Bison Peak Ventures, as they delve into the latest strategies shaping guest engagement.
The panel is excited to welcome special guest Amber Simpson, Founder & Lead Strategist of Martrek Digital, who will challenge traditional marketing approaches and discuss how to evoke emotion in every campaign.
Simpson will introduce her renowned “Roasted Marshmallow Method™,” emphasizing the critical shift from simply listing amenities to curating and marketing specific, unforgettable outdoor experiences. She will guide owners on how to master digital storytelling to tap into campers’ emotions without alienating crucial segments like practical big-rig travelers, ensuring every marketing dollar spent creates a deeper, more meaningful connection.
Previous Episode Recap
The May 20, 2026, episode of MC Fireside Chats offered an exclusive, in-depth conversation with Jon Thatcher, owner of Shady Oaks Camping Resort in Plattsburgh, New York. Hosted by Brian Searl of Insider Perks and Modern Campground, the discussion provided a candid look into the realities of modern campground ownership, detailing Thatcher’s career pivot from education reform and his journey into outdoor hospitality.
Thatcher shared how nostalgic childhood memories of camping influenced his decision to purchase Shady Oaks in August 2024, emphasizing his two-year renovation efforts and fresh perspective. The episode explored critical strategies for engaging younger generations, with Thatcher highlighting Shady Oaks’ focus on expanding and renovating traditional tent sites to make outdoor experiences more accessible, while Brian Searl referenced Insider Perks’ research on Gen Z camping behaviors, including their unique anxieties and desires for community.
The conversation also delved into redefining campground design, moving beyond static amenities to incorporate modern lifestyle demands like remote work spaces, coffee shops, and on-brand bars. Thatcher shared his long-term vision of transforming Shady Oaks into an “outdoor hotel,” while Searl suggested implementing small, memorable details—such as high-quality towels or hydroponic herb gardens—to significantly enhance guest experience and improve organic word-of-mouth marketing. The discussion concluded with strategies for managing multi-faceted parks, effectively marketing luxury glamping units, and leveraging AI to craft tailored marketing messages for diverse guest demographics. Explore the full conversation and insights from this episode.
https://moderncampground.com/fireside-chats/mc-fireside-chats-May-20th-2026
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: Marketing, AI and Technology
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.