The November 20, 2024, episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted live by Brian Searl, took place at the KOA Convention in San Antonio, Texas, bringing together a dynamic group of speakers from across the outdoor hospitality industry. The atmosphere was vibrant, as leaders gathered to exchange ideas and celebrate the community’s collective accomplishments. Brian opened the session with humor and energy, acknowledging the meticulous planning behind the KOA convention while setting the stage for engaging conversations with an esteemed panel of industry professionals. Gwynn Sullivan, Executive Director of the Care Camps Foundation, introduced herself and spoke passionately about the foundation’s mission to support children with cancer through outdoor experiences. She expressed gratitude for the enduring partnership with KOA, which has been central to the foundation’s growth over four decades. Gwynn highlighted the innovative programs developed by pediatric oncology camps, including “Camp in the Box” and family retreats, as examples of how these initiatives bring joy and healing to families during challenging times. Jamie Rademacher, also a board member of the Care Camps Foundation, reflected on her long-standing involvement with KOA conventions. She emphasized the family-like atmosphere of the KOA network and how it fosters meaningful relationships and partnerships. For Jamie, the convention was not only a learning experience but also an opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces and gain new insights to further the foundation’s work. She shared her vision for expanding the foundation’s reach and building an endowment to ensure sustainable funding for years to come. Ben Quiggle, editor of Woodall’s Campground Magazine, shared his experiences from the convention, recounting highlights such as the groundbreaking ceremony at the Fredericksburg KOA and the workshops at the San Antonio KOA. He praised the KOA organization for its polished approach and its ability to provide actionable insights to campground owners. Ben noted how conventions like this re-energize attendees, offering fresh perspectives and new strategies to implement in their businesses. Mark Lemoine, Senior Vice President of Franchise Operations for KOA, brought a unique perspective as a former franchisee turned executive. He described the immense value of having walked in the shoes of franchise owners, which now informs his work on behalf of the entire KOA system. Mark shared how KOA supports its network of over 500 properties through education, training, and a focus on operational excellence. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the brand’s reputation for quality and consistency across all campgrounds, ensuring that guests know what to expect wherever they see the KOA logo. John, Ali, and Beth Kieffer, representing the Blue Ridge/Toccoa River KOA in Georgia, shared their inspiring journey as a family-run campground. From building the campground during the challenges of COVID-19 to receiving the Rising Star Award, their story reflected the resilience and dedication of KOA franchisees. John credited their success to their focus on guest satisfaction, as reflected in their consistently high Net Promoter Scores (NPS). Ali, now the general manager, highlighted the importance of treating both staff and guests like family, a sentiment echoed by her mother, Beth, who praised the collaborative effort that made their campground a success. Kevin Theuson, partner in KCN Campgrounds, spoke about the evolution of his business from a single-park operation to managing multiple properties. He discussed the challenges of scaling while preserving the personal touch that defines outdoor hospitality. Kevin shared his approach to building a strong team, empowering them to deliver exceptional guest experiences, and fostering a culture that prioritizes empathy and leadership. Throughout the episode, the theme of community and collaboration remained central. Gwynn and Jamie highlighted creative fundraising efforts from campground owners for Care Camps, such as unique donation drives and events. These efforts underscored the deep connection between KOA franchisees and the foundation’s mission. Meanwhile, Mark emphasized how KOA’s collective strength enables franchisees to innovate, grow, and succeed in an increasingly competitive industry. As the conversation wrapped up, each speaker reflected on their key takeaways from the convention. From innovative marketing strategies and rate management techniques to leveraging data and enhancing camp store design, the insights shared were diverse and impactful. For Gwynn and Jamie, the convention was a reminder of the power of relationships and the shared commitment to making a difference. For the Kieffers, it was a celebration of their achievements and a reaffirmation of their passion for outdoor hospitality. The episode concluded with Brian thanking the panelists and acknowledging the unique energy of the KOA convention. The discussions highlighted not only the expertise of the participants but also the collective heart of the KOA community, united by a shared mission to connect people with the outdoors and each other.