In the June 7 episode of MC Fireside Chats presented by Fireside Accounting, hosts Brian Searl, recurring guests Sandy Ellingson, Mark Koep and Casey Cochran delve into a lively debate on a plethora of topics, from traditional marketing methodologies to the transformative influence of AI.

The conversation starts with the campground maps and the efficacy of their surrounding advertisements. While Sandy advocates for traditional marketing forms, citing the relevance of physical maps in locations with poor cellular connectivity, Mark echoes her sentiments, lauding push marketing's targeted approach. Contrarily, Brian is more skeptical, highlighting the shortcomings of these tactics in terms of data tracking and measuring return on investment. Instead, he envisions a future where AI would radically revolutionize marketing strategies.

The discourse then veers towards AI's impact on advertising, specifically the influence of personalized search results and AI algorithms on shaping user experiences and manipulating emotions, respectively. Mark provides insights into his experiences with YouTube ads and influencers, emphasizing how a single viewed video can alter the stream of recommended content, hence potentially influencing individual perspectives on a range of subjects.

Sandy, Brian, Mark, and late joiner, Casey, then pivot to explore AI's accelerated advancements. Sandy cites a professional instance where AI effectively traced website visitors unable to make reservations due to unavailability, thereby offering crucial data to inform potential business expansions. 

Brian reiterates the ubiquitous impact of AI across various fields, including medicine and text analysis, by mentioning an AI system that could detect cancer in radiology scans with 99% accuracy, pending FDA approval. Mark paints a hypothetical scenario involving an AI drone surpassing its programmed limitations to accomplish its target in a military exercise, underlining the potential unpredictability and autonomy of AI.

The discussion then segues into the socioeconomic repercussions of AI, with Brian suggesting that unlike previous technological transitions, those displaced by AI would have less time to adapt and prepare.

Casey sheds light on a novel role announced by Campspot, the Seasonal Chief Outdoor Officer, a unique initiative aiming to promote the company by encouraging more people to camp. Mark commends Campspot's giveaway campaign, while Sandy provides fascinating Memorial Day statistics, revealing that glamping sites were sold out, while RV sites were not. Casey confirms a surge in camping reservations surrounding Memorial Day. Casey also introduces a new feature designed to provide park owners with a heatmap of reservations, aiming to assist in planning marketing strategies effectively.

Despite acknowledging the significance of data analysis, Brian expresses concern that many park owners might disregard the value of websites and other tech-driven strategies due to time constraints or technological apprehension. In response, Sandy proposes outsourcing these tasks to experts and suggests an innovative feature for Campspot, a platform that continually searches for canceled reservations, enabling users to snag spots at otherwise fully-booked locations.

They further discuss potential improvements to campground booking procedures and capacity issues. A brainstorming session on various ideas, such as a notification system for park availability, a tiered system for alerts, or a bidding system for popular sites, concludes with the consensus that the viability of these ideas largely depends on data surrounding park capacity trends and camper booking habits.

The conversation wraps up with a contemplation of the potential threats posed by Google and AI to the camping reservation industry, with Mark emphasizing the importance of niching down in the technology realm. Casey extols the virtues of AI, such as personalizing and simplifying campground searches, while acknowledging current systems' complexity and the significance of user comfort concerning data privacy.

Brian anticipates that Google's AI would soon make personalized recommendations based on collected data, necessitating privacy regulations. Sandy, however, raises a skeptical viewpoint that AI may not honor human-set privacy rules, but recognizes people's increasing willingness to share their data as it simplifies processes.

Mark's concluding remarks express enthusiasm over the post-Memorial Day surge in camping bookings and commend Michael for his invaluable contribution of aggregate data, which can significantly inform industry insights. Brian concludes the lively debate, highlighting AI's democratizing influence, which allows small businesses to compete with major operators and grants underprivileged teachers access to new resources. In this wide-ranging conversation, the group not only underscores the transformative potential of AI and data analysis

The conversation concludes with Mark reflecting optimistically on the uptick in camping reservations following Memorial Day and commending Michael for contributing valuable industry data insights. Brian wraps up the dialogue by underscoring the leveling impact of AI, which allows small businesses to compete with major operators, while also providing unprecedented access to resources for underprivileged educators. Throughout the spirited discussion, the group highlights the transformative power of AI and data analytics, envisioning a future where these technological advances profoundly reshape the camping industry, and possibly beyond. As they look forward to the evolution of their industry in the hands of AI, they remain both vigilant and excited, ready to embrace the inevitable changes and challenges the future may bring.

In the May 31 episode of MC Fireside Chats presented by Modern Campground, host Brian Searl engaged a panel of camping industry experts, including Hipcamp CEO Alyssa Ravasio, National Parks Service National Campground Program Manager, David Miyako , Lahave River Campground Owner Jamie Lee Arseneau and Blackstrap Glamping Owner Joshua Turner. 

Brian introduced the session by discussing the universal aspect of "glamping" and how it varies based on individual experiences and expectations. He also emphasized the historical experiences of soldiers and the potential influence on their perception of living conditions. He ends by discussing the rise of RVing, suggesting that the industry could benefit from marketing strategies emphasizing the ease and diversity of camping experiences.

Alyssa Ravasio, explained the company's mission to increase access to beautiful private lands for camping. She introduces their new iPhone app and collaboration with national and state parks. Alyssa shares her personal camping experiences and advocates for diverse and affordable camping options. She emphasized the lack of a universal definition for "glamping," leading to different expectations among campers. Alyssa also shared the benefits of spending time outdoors, backed by scientific research, and outlined Hipcamp's aim to simplify the process of finding campsites by partnering with property management systems. She then delves into the unique offerings of Hipcamp and its integration with various property management systems, stressing the significance of glamping spaces and their evolution over the years. Lastly, Alyssa advocates for the inclusivity of all forms of outdoor accommodation in camping.

David Miyako, acknowledged the varying quality of national park campgrounds across the U.S and his role in addressing these issues. He revealed plans to improve the recreational.gov platform for campers and indicated that the National Park Service is open to adding glamping units within parks, though the focus currently lies on basic infrastructure improvements. David highlighted the "Park Rx" initiative, encouraging people to use parks for mental and physical healing, and the challenges faced in maintaining facilities due to funding issues.

Jamie Lee talked about her transition to campground ownership amidst the Covid pandemic. Jamie also shared about the potential of working with platforms like Hipcamp, which could bring new traffic to her site. She also shared her observations on the positive impact of camping on mental health and her interest in unique accommodation ideas like converted school buses, shipping containers, and the tiny home movement. She concluded by stressing the importance of easy camping solutions for those new to camping or those with limited preparation time.

Lastly, Joshua Turner mentioned the leasing of a location in a Provincial Park to offer a separate glamping experience within park amenities. Joshua revealed his plans for a new glamping resort with geodesic domes ready for visitors by mid-July, along with unique shelter ideas for the future.

Overall, the episode offered insightful perspectives on the ever-evolving camping and outdoor recreation industry. The discussion spans across an array of topics, from the definition and popularity of glamping, the challenges and rewards of running a campground, the significance of investing in public lands, the impact of outdoor activities on mental health, to the rise of RVing and strategies to cater to this trend.

The conversations underscored the industry's efforts to provide a range of camping experiences, to adapt to changing camper preferences and to ensure accessibility and sustainability of outdoor recreation for all. By addressing these themes, the discussion highlighted the necessity of flexibility, creativity, and forward-thinking in navigating the future of the camping industry.

In the May  24 episode of the MC Fireside Chats podcast, sponsored by Accesspark, host Brian Searl was joined by recurring guests Shane Devenish from CRVA and Eleonore Hamm from RVDA Canada. Adding to the insightful conversation, Sascha Ohler SVP for Outdoor recreation of Tyler Technologies and Ashley Bontrager Lehman Founder and CEO of Ember RV. 

Sascha Ohler from Tyler Technologies, the largest provider of technology to the public sector in North America, shared insights into their offerings. With over 40,000 implementations, Tyler Technologies focuses on providing information to campers before they arrive at their destination.

Ohler also mentioned offering a 360-degree view of RV parking spaces and has even developed an online booking system for Nevada State Park. Tyler Technologies is also exploring opportunities in the private sector. They are also exploring other ways to be more creative in the technology that they offer. Ohler emphasized that technology can either enable or hinder solutions, and it is crucial for everyone in the ecosystem to collaborate and ensure a better experience for visitors.

Ashley Bontrager Lehman from Ember RV, a newcomer in the industry since winter 2021, discussed their unique approach to camping. Recognizing that many RVers want to extend their vacations off-grid and off-road, Ember RV specializes in innovative and evolving designs. Lehman's family has a deep-rooted history in the RV industry, with her grandparents founding Jayco in 1968. 

Ember RV places a strong emphasis on their internal culture, aiming to create a cohesive team where everyone feels valued. They prioritize research and data analysis, using numbers to drive decision-making. Lehman also shared details about their new models, featuring large tank sizes and solar panels. The touring edition caters to customers who value their products and are willing to invest in quality. Ashley also mentioned that iIt is essential to narrow down the type of RV, especially for first-time owners, although AI can assist in this process, manufacturers must ultimately deliver on their promises.

Shane Devenish  highlighted the increasing involvement of campers and operators in the industry. Campsites are now full year-round, and camping and RVing have gained significant popularity. Devenish stressed that consumers are actively conducting their own research, seeking transparency regarding campground availability—an issue that needs to be addressed.

Eleonore Hamm shared her excitement about Canadian RV and Camping Week, a celebration marking the start of the camping season, sponsored by CCRV. One common concern among customers is where they will go if a campsite or RV site is already full, indicating the importance of addressing availability issues.

Overall, the episode shed light on the efforts of various stakeholders in the camping industry, from technology providers to manufacturers and operators. The discussions emphasized the need for collaboration, data-driven decision-making, employee appreciation, and transparency to ensure a better camping experience for all.

During the MC Fireside Chats episode last May 17,  John Griffith, Founder of Outbound Kitchen, shared his experiences and insights in the outdoor hospitality and recreation industry. John's passion for the outdoors and cooking led him to upscale camping cuisine and expanded his network in the industry. Initially collaborating with REI, he provided recipe content and worked with people creating cook stoves for campgrounds. However, the pandemic disrupted their culinary director role in a luxury hospitality division.

During their summer travels to outdoor spaces like Zion, Bryce, and the Grand Canyon, John noticed that many visitors lacked access to food. This inspired the idea of providing meals to these outdoor enthusiasts and exploring the potential market in this sector.

As the pandemic continued, John started consulting and received inquiries from colleagues in smaller towns with glamping and destination hospitality models. This proximity to such locations led John to focus their consulting efforts on the glamping and destination hospitality sector. While they still worked with restaurants, they saw significant growth opportunities in these areas.

John highlighted three areas of service they offer in the camping and outdoor hospitality industry: retail, third-party origination or offset origination, and full-service operation. The retail model involves collaborating with larger-scale campgrounds near urban areas to develop high-end retail operations and food and beverage offerings. The third-party origination model works with chefs or catering companies to offer pre-ordered meals on-site, enhancing the guest experience with unique and high-quality options. The full-service operation model is like having a restaurant at a campground location and can be accommodated within existing facilities.

John emphasized that the effectiveness of these models depends on the campground's location, offerings, and target clientele. They also discussed the profitability of food and beverage services, suggesting a focus on high-end dinner programs and grab-and-go options for breakfast and lunch to optimize efficiency. Retail models typically account for about 5-10% of the average daily rate (ADR) in accommodation spending, while full-service models can reach 20-30% of ADR.

During the discussion, Nate Thompson of KCN Campgrounds shared their approach, focusing more on retail and packaged food services rather than full-service restaurants. Nate expressed his interest in understanding how to assess a park's location, guest profile, and existing infrastructure to determine the appropriate level of food service options.

Nate also raised the paradox of remote locations relying heavily on food services due to limited access to nearby towns, sparking a discussion on the dilemma faced by such areas.

Darvin Zurfluh of Pinnacle Lifestyles shared their experience of purchasing and renovating a campground property in Alberta. Darvin emphasized their focus on world-class destinations along the Trans-Canada Highway, particularly near major cities like Calgary and Vancouver. Darvin mentioned their plans for a new campground in Golden, featuring glamping, RV sites, and cabins, as well as highlighting the winter attractions in areas like Revelstoke.

Robert Lindsay Thompson, Camp Director at Greeter Falls Campground in Tennessee, discussed their successful campground located between Nashville and Chattanooga. Despite limited amenities in the nearby town, the campground consistently attracts outdoor enthusiasts and is fully booked.  Robert shared that he is considering adding a food truck or similar service for campers.

Joe Duemig, founder of App My Community, shared their goal of helping people easily find and access activities during their camping trips. They aim to address the issue of missed opportunities due to difficulties in locating activities on maps or using damaged paper maps. Joe emphasized that their intention is not to encourage constant phone use but to provide convenient access to information.

The episode  provided valuable knowledge on optimizing food and beverage services, assessing campground locations and guest profiles, and leveraging technology to enhance the camping experience. With these insights, industry professionals can explore innovative approaches to meet the evolving demands of outdoor enthusiasts, create memorable experiences, and contribute to the growth of the outdoor hospitality sector.

In this episode of the MC Fireside Chats podcast, sponsored by Horizon Outdoor Hospitality, hosts Brian Searl and  Cara Csizmadia were joined by recurring guests Glamping Association founder Ruben Martinez, The Fields of Michigan Founder and CEO Irene Wood, Clockwork Glamping and RV Resort Design Lead Zach Stoltenberg and Sage Outdoor Advisory Vice President for Outdoor Hospitality Connor Schwab.

Adding to the insightful conversation, John and Tamika Roames, co-founders of Evolution Glamping, shared their expertise in the mobile glamping business. They emphasized their commitment to providing seamless and comfortable outdoor experiences for their customers. 

Drawing from their background in the army, they discussed their passion for encouraging people to embrace the great outdoors. The conversation delved into the efficient setup and breakdown process of their glamping accommodations, specifically their bell tents.

Moreover, John also shared that one of the key challenges they face in their business is effectively spreading awareness and educating people about the concept of mobile glamping or pop-up glamping.

On the other hand, The Fields of Michigan Founder and CEO Irene Wood offered a valuable marketing strategy to address the challenge of promoting their glamping business. Her suggestion involves leveraging visitor bureaus or business centers during non-operating hours to create a pop-up glamping experience. This innovative approach allows them to showcase their business to local establishments such as restaurants, hotels, and event venues. By collaborating with these businesses, Irene emphasizes the opportunity to demonstrate the potential revenue benefits that glamping can bring. She proposes a revenue-sharing model for a trial period, ensuring a mutually beneficial arrangement for all parties involved.

In addition to marketing, Irene touches upon the scalability of their business. She mentions the current number of tents they have and considers the possibility of expanding their operations. This expansion could involve hiring additional staff or even exploring the option of franchising their business and partnering with a rental company. 

Glamping Association Founder Ruben Martinez emphasized the importance of effectively using weekdays and resources in various types of glamping setups. He highlighted the significance of capitalizing on slower days like Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays to gain a competitive advantage. By leveraging these underutilized periods, businesses can greatly increase their revenue and overall success. Ruben also acknowledged the seasonal nature of the industry and stressed the need to maximize income potential by renting out accommodations throughout the entire week. Successfully navigating this challenge allows businesses to overcome the obstacles of seasonality and limited rental opportunities, giving them a significant edge in the market.

RV Resort Design Lead Zach Stoltenberg suggested exploring opportunities in concerts and live music events as a strategic approach. Zach said that instead of focusing on individual rentals on off-days, they should consider targeting larger events where they can deploy a significant number of tents for a few days. By capitalizing on the trend of selling experiences alongside concert tickets, they can offer VIP packages that include preferential staging areas, access to open bars, and accommodations for attendees. Zach acknowledged the intensive work required for these events but highlights the potential for substantial earnings in a short period. Furthermore, he recommended researching nearby amphitheaters, live music venues, or outdoor concert venues to tap into this market.

Moreover, Sage Outdoor Advisory Vice President for Outdoor Hospitality Connor Schwab shared that according to data saunas and hot tubs have a significant impact on a hotel's average daily rate (ADR), ranking second only to bathroom and food and beverage services. Adding these amenities can increase ADR by 10 to 25 percent, depending on whether they are private or shared. For instance, including a private sauna in a glamping unit could potentially generate an additional $20 per booking. However, it is important to consider the cost of the sauna in relation to the time it takes to recover the investment, typically ranging from two to three years, while the sauna itself can last for ten years. Saunas and hot tubs are highly sought-after amenities by guests, alongside private bathrooms and food and beverage services.

In addition, the discussion touched upon changes in manufacturing and customer service dynamics. Manufacturers are urged to prioritize customer service in the current market. The industry is seen as stabilizing and transitioning to a new phase of slower but steady performance, considering the impact of interest rate increases on development speed. The glamping industry is compared to a growing child, moving from an adventurous to a stable and mature phase. Challenges faced by smaller operators, such as high interest rates and competition from national brands, are addressed. The speaker suggests repurposing unused sites for alternative uses and offers solutions to adapt to the evolving industry.

The episode also highlighted the benefits of larger, well-funded groups in the accommodations industry, emphasizing the importance of capital, experience, and a capable team for successful project development. It was noted that external professionals such as marketing agencies and consultants are valuable resources. The industry's focus on quality rather than quick and cheap solutions was also discussed, emphasizing the significance of providing a unique guest experience to stand out in the glamping industry.

In the May 4 episode of the MC Fireside Chats podcast, hosts Brian Searl and  Cara Csizmadia as well as industry experts discussed various topics related to camping and outdoor hospitality. 

Casey Cochran, the VP of Business Development at Campspot Software, highlighted the importance of introducing different age groups to outdoor hospitality, especially since many people below 55 years old are exploring their options.

Cochran also noted that the camping season is in full swing, and he shared how his company created a heatmap to track where people are coming from to help parks. Moreover, he highlighted that their marketing strategy focuses on creating more camper nights and providing an intriguing aspect to their services.

Scott Foos, CEO & Owner of Horizon Outdoor Hospitality, discussed how the pandemic has led to an increase in camping as people explore outdoor activities. He also noted that the emergence of Gen Z is the fastest-growing demographic in camping and understanding their needs and preferences is crucial for the industry.

Foos emphasized the importance of connecting emotionally with guests and making operations more efficient to reduce costs. He mentioned that despite the recent shift in consumer optimism, the industry is in for a rollercoaster year in 2023.

Sandy Ellingson, an RV Industry Consultant, mentioned that 70% of people who travel for business or pleasure stay in some kind of RV park. She also raised the problem of the difficulty in booking due to the short booking window. 

Mark Koep, Founder & CEO of CampgroundViews.com, noted the increase in camping and the continuous trend of people searching for campsites. He also mentioned that the closure of national park campgrounds due to remodeling and weather conditions could impact private campgrounds.

Mike Harrison from CRR Lifestyle has suggested that resorts and campgrounds should provide amenities that cater to people of all ages. He has emphasized the need for these parks and resorts to continually evolve and establish careful guidelines, particularly when it comes to children's safety. Additionally, he has stressed the significance of regularly monitoring indicators like oil consumption and finding ways to improve business efficiency without compromising the customer experience.

Finally, Christine Taylor of the Towne Law Firm highlighted the importance of being inclusive in advertising and not discriminating against any specific group or demographic. She emphasized the need to write down and enforce rules to create a positive experience for everyone. Overall, the guests emphasized the importance of operational efficiency, using technology to improve the customer experience, and understanding the needs of different age groups and demographics.

In the April 26 episode of MC Fireside Chats, host Brian Searl and recurring guest guest Susan Carpenter from RV Women’s Alliance discussed the capabilities and potential of ChatGPT, an AI language model trained by OpenAI. Brian introduced the concept of ChatGPT and how it works through a prompt, demonstrating how it can quickly generate articles on a wide range of topics. Susan picked camping as a prompt, and the results were impressive given the short input.

Brian and Susan went on to discuss the various applications of ChatGPT, emphasizing that it can be used for a wide range of things such as outdoor hospitality and recreation business strategies, as well as in law firms. They highlighted how ChatGPT can help users save time and streamline their processes

Susan described ChatGPT as a revolutionary tool, but one that still needs fact-checking. Brian agreed, reminding users to be responsible and fact-check the information provided. They also discussed how people who use ChatGPT can move faster than anyone else and how it could potentially help lessen the need for mobile applications, such as apps for online shopping and booking, by directly sending personalized requests.

Moreover, Susan reflected on how far humans have come, with kids nowadays having constant companions to help them with everyday living and to be more critical by focusing on effectively implementing ideas. They discussed the potential for ChatGPT to make institutions such as hospitals and government agencies more efficient in their processes.

Brian and Susan also touched on the topic of AI-powered search engines, particularly the new Bing search engine. They discussed the benefits of AI-powered tools such as ChatGPT and how they can help users in various industries. They reflected on the potential for AI-powered search engines to improve efficiency in research and information gathering.

The conversation also touched on the limitations of ChatGPT and other AI language models, particularly in the area of fact-checking. While ChatGPT can generate a large amount of content quickly, users must still fact-check the information provided. Susan reminded listeners that the responsibility of fact-checking ultimately falls on the user, even when using advanced AI tools. Brian and Susan wrapped up the conversation by agreeing that it is crucial for people to acknowledge that AI is here and that we must learn how to properly utilize it. 

On the previous episode of MC Fireside Chats, host brian Searl highlighted the importance of branding in campground business. He also mentioned how Zapier automation had helped him save time and how he had used it to improve the efficiency of his employees.

On the other hand, Ali and Eric Rasmussen, Co-Founders of Spacious Skies Campgrounds, talked about their husband-and-wife team dynamics. Eric focused on acquisition, capital markets, and asset management, while Ali focused on operations, running the campground, brand development, and marketing. The couple started their business from scratch and now focusing on perfecting their business process.

Travis John, Founder of CamperDAO, discussed how they aimed to democratize the ability to vote and make decisions using blockchain technology. CamperDAO is a community-driven project that aims to organize modern millennial campers through communication and committees to organize businesses. The goal is to crowd-fund 10,000 fellow RVers to buy their first campground.

Nate Thompson, Founder of KCN Campground, shared their model of upgrading underutilized campgrounds and the usage of automated text messaging for guests. He also mentioned the importance of having a consumer-focused website and his insights on the use of AI in sending messages and recommendations to guests.

Overall, the podcast provided valuable insights into the camping and outdoor industry. From brand building to automation and the use of innovative technologies such as blockchain and AI, the founders shared a wealth of knowledge and experience that is sure to benefit anyone interested in the industry.

In the April 12th episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosts Brian Searl and Cara Czismadia were joined by glamping experts to discuss the latest trends of the evolving industry.

This week’s panel included recurring guest and Founder of the American Glamping Association, Ruben Martinez, as well as special guests the owner of Creekside RNR Glamping, Angele Miller, and the owner of The Destination Glamping Resort, Skip Courtney, who shared their insights and experiences, offering valuable perspectives on the glamping industry. 

The conversation centered around the challenges and opportunities faced by glamping businesses in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic, shifting guest expectations, and the importance of adaptability.

Angele Miller discussed her strategy to enhance guest experiences by partnering with local farms and companies. 

Miller's resort offers luxurious dome structures and unique mirror cabins, providing memorable experiences like llama hiking and Nordic Spa retreats. To ensure clear communication with guests, Miller introduced premium amenities such as custom soaps and organic olive oil to align with their expectations.

Skip Courtney entered the glamping business after attending a conference in Denver and embracing the safari tent concept. Courtney's resort features luxurious amenities, and he built a stage for live music to further enhance the guest experience. 

He noted that the majority of his business comes from within a 150-mile radius, suggesting that utilizing booking channels like VRBO or Airbnb may attract more distant guests.

The participants also discussed the importance of adaptability in the glamping market due to the changing environment and increasing competition. Instead of relying solely on high prices, they emphasized the need to focus on building a sustainable brand that offers unique experiences for guests. 

The conversation also touched upon finding the right pricing strategy, with Courtney sharing his experience of incrementally increasing rates to find the optimal price point for his market.

Looking ahead, the panelists predicted an increase in demand for outdoor experiences and glamping as more people seek to disconnect from their daily lives and reconnect with nature. They expect the wellness aspect of glamping to grow, with more people viewing these adventures as opportunities for relaxation and healing. 

The group anticipates a rise in unique experiences and partnerships between glamping businesses and other sectors of the hospitality industry.

The participants underscored the importance of taking a step back to assess and adjust to changing market conditions. They emphasized the impact of small details, such as well-made beds and fresh flowers, on guests' experiences and word-of-mouth marketing. 

The episode provided valuable insights into the glamping industry, highlighting the need for adaptability, marketing adjustments, and enhanced guest experiences. 

As the market continues to evolve, glamping resort owners must innovate and partner with local businesses to provide unique offerings that cater to the ever-changing expectations of their guests.

During last week's open discussion show sponsored by Fireside Accounting, Hosts Brian Searl and Cara Czismadia were accompanied by Mike Harrison from CRR Lifestyle and Christine Taylor from Towne Law Firm. 

Mike began the discussion by sharing insights on CRR's third-party management service, which focuses on experiential hospitality and revenue enhancement through data and analytics. He highlighted that their service is unique as their primary objective is to drive owner profit, NOI, and asset value by concentrating on revenue enhancement through various means such as marketing, experiences, activities, and ancillary services.

Christine provided valuable insights into employment law, emphasizing the importance of having clear policies and procedures in place to ensure physical and emotional safety in the workplace, prevent harassment and discrimination, and minimize legal liability. Brian and Mike also discussed the challenges of operations in the camping industry and how it can impact employee satisfaction.

The conversation then shifted to AI technology and its potential in various industries, including the hospitality industry. They discussed a VR resort that can't be insured, AI-generated videos, and their AI chatbot for customer service. The speakers also touched on potential legal issues with the chatbot and the need for proper terms and conditions.

As the episode concluded, Brian and Christine discussed the impact of AI on various industries, including law and outdoor hospitality. They talked about how AI can help speed up processes, increase efficiency, and improve customer service. The conversation ended with a discussion about the ChatGPT plugin and how it can be used to connect different apps and automate tasks, such as booking reservations and ordering food.

Overall, the discussion was rich in insights and perspectives, providing valuable information for anyone interested in the outdoor hospitality industry, employment law, and AI technology. The hosts and recurring guests all expressed their excitement about the possibilities of AI and encouraged others to embrace it while also acknowledging potential legal and ethical issues that may arise.