From Boo Boo to VP at Camp Jellystone — Lisa Courtney on the Real Work of Outdoor Hospitality Leadership

Send us Fan MailYou can learn a lot about outdoor hospitality from spreadsheets and site plans, but you learn the truth from the people who have carried the radio, calmed the queue, and still found a way to make the day feel fun. I’m joined by Lisa Courtney, VP of Operations and Sales at Camp Jellystone, and her career story starts in the most Jellystone way possible: stepping into a character suit and running recreation programming before working her way up to general manager and, later, brand leadership.We get real about what campground management and RV resort operations demand, especially in year-round parks where staffing is tight and standards are high. Lisa shares what burnout looked like for her, how she thinks about boundaries now, and why “it’s okay to make mistakes” only works if you actually fix what you learn. We also unpack the simplest lever leaders control every day: culture. When a team feels supported and aligned, guests feel it immediately, and the guest experience becomes consistent rather than accidental.From there, we zoom out to Camp Jellystone’s franchise model and how the industry has shifted since Covid: consolidation, more multi-park operators, third-party management, and the challenge of serving owners with very different systems. We talk seasonal versus transient mix, ancillary revenue, changing booking windows, and the rising cost of glamping cabins and other lodging. Lisa’s north star is clear: reduce friction points, elevate the experience, and create memory-driving stays that bring families back year after year.If you care about campground leadership, guest experience, glamping strategy, or franchise growth in outdoor hospitality, press play. Subscribe, share the episode with a fellow operator, and leave us a review with the biggest lesson you’ve learned on the ground.We work really hard to bring you the best content from the best operators in our industry and we do it all absolutely free of charge. All we ask is that you consider leaving us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so we can keep the momentum going. Simply go to the homepage of the podcast and scroll down till you see the stars. Thanks for your support and let's keep getting more people outside.This podcast is powered by Sage Outdoor Advisory, the industry leaders in feasibility studies and appraisals. 

Send us Fan MailThere are 10+ marketing and advertising channels which should you invest in? We break down a practical, trackable way to drive more direct bookings for outdoor hospitality using better creative, Meta ads, landing pages and email nurture. We also share what we have learned the hard way about OTAs, influencer marketing, pixels, and where AI can genuinely help operators and marketing teams. • prioritising high-quality video content over higher ad spend • treating Meta creative as the main driver of performance • allocating launch budget towards content creation and Meta ads • weighing influencer “exposure” against trackable paid social ROI • deciding when Google Ads and SEO are worth it for a property • building a direct booking funnel with landing pages and email capture • using Meta Pixel and conversion events to optimise for bookings • creating clearer customer avatars and committing to one niche • understanding creative volume and stage-based ads after Andromeda • benchmarking cost per booking against OTA commissions • using StayFi to capture guest details and enable upsells • applying AI for property knowledge bases, concierge replies and pricing ideas Learn more or book a call at hiddengem.media Follow @dustindeanbaker and @hiddengem.staysWe work really hard to bring you the best content from the best operators in our industry and we do it all absolutely free of charge. All we ask is that you consider leaving us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so we can keep the momentum going. Simply go to the homepage of the podcast and scroll down till you see the stars. Thanks for your support and let's keep getting more people outside.This podcast is powered by Sage Outdoor Advisory, the industry leaders in feasibility studies and appraisals. 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we mix things up a bit and sit down with two leading voices in outdoor hospitality (Mike Harrison of CRR Hospitality and Wendy Heineke of Hospitality Across America) to bust some of the most common myths in the industry.From “Pretty Is Enough” to “Set It and Forget It” pricing, this episode breaks down what actually drives repeat stays, maximized revenue, and stronger profitability across the RV resort and glamping industry.Here’s a breakdown of the myths discussed in the episode:1. A Beautiful Property is Enough 2. If You Build It, They Will Come 3. Glamping is Just a Trend 4. Outdoor Hospitality is Recession-Proof 5. Glamping Guests are all Millennials chasing Instagram Shots 6. I'll Just Find Ways to Reduce Construction Costs to Make it Feasible 7. Pricing Should Stay Consistent Year-Round 8. It Runs Itself once it's Built 9. Online Booking Platforms Handle all your Marketing 10. Five-Star Reviews Mean You're Doing Everything Right 11. It's Easier to Run a Small Resort than a Large OneWe work really hard to bring you the best content from the best operators in our industry and we do it all absolutely free of charge. All we ask is that you consider leaving us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so we can keep the momentum going. Simply go to the homepage of the podcast and scroll down till you see the stars. Thanks for your support and let's keep getting more people outside.This podcast is powered by Sage Outdoor Advisory, the industry leaders in feasibility studies and appraisals. 

Send us Fan MailHear from Jasper Ribbers the founder of the industry leading 'Get Paid for your Pad' Podcast and the founder of Freewyld Foundry revenue management firmDeep Dive: hear the quickest gains via smart revenue management hacks. Jasper Rivers shares a practical framework for dynamic pricing, pacing, and AI so operators can stop guessing and start making deliberate decisions. • how do you know if your pricing your rooms too high? or too low?• revenue management as pricing plus bookability levers like cancellations, minimum stays, and calendar settings • why “set and forget” pricing tools can fail without the right parameters and regular review • ADR times occupancy as the core revenue equation, and why high occupancy can be a warning sign • booking window thinking, last-minute discount behaviour, and how to get ahead of the market • pacing against market occupancy to spot underpricing or overpricing earlier • balancing higher ADR with strong reviews through expectations and on-the-ground service • where AI helps most right now in revenue management workflows, forecasting and internal tools • what makes properties win in 2026?• amenity ROI with maintenance realities, including low-cost wellness ideas Guest Links:Jasper Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasperribbers/Jasper Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/jasper.ribbers/Jaspers Book:  https://www.amazon.com/Get-Paid-Your-Pad-Maximize-ebook/dp/B00MXSLEIO?ref_=ast_author_dp&th=1&psc=1Freewyld Foundry Website:  freewildfoundry.com Freewyld Idyllwild Website:  https://freewyld.com/We work really hard to bring you the best content from the best operators in our industry and we do it all absolutely free of charge. All we ask is that you consider leaving us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so we can keep the momentum going. Simply go to the homepage of the podcast and scroll down till you see the stars. Thanks for your support and let's keep getting more people outside.This podcast is powered by Sage Outdoor Advisory, the industry leaders in feasibility studies and appraisals. 

Send us Fan MailWe sit down with Sarah Dusek to explore how a six-suite, five-star safari lodge can fund rewilding, restore soils, and open access to wilderness without compromising design, comfort, or values. We trace the path from Under Canvas to Few and Far, and dig into pricing, inclusion, funding, and carbon goals.• glamping origins and the leap from under canvas to few and far• operational headwinds, capital stacks, and industry maturity• designing hybrid cliff suites with locally milled eucalyptus• biodiversity of the soutpansberg and rewilding vision• low-volume guiding and authentic wildlife experiences• pricing model and nature has no price tag access• sustainability as the floor, regeneration as the aim• soil health, carbon sequestration, and fence removal• the three ps framework for long-term balance• scaling plans across 100,000 hectares by 2030• curated global trips and independent hotel partners• teams, grit, and staying power in tough markets• ai for speed and personalization without losing human touchSarah's websites: fewandfarluvhondo.comfandftravel.comThis podcast is powered by Sage Outdoor Advisory, the industry leaders in feasibility studies and appraisals. 

Send us Fan MailHilton Grand Vacations COO Gordon Gurnik shares about modern timeshares, perks, and partnerships to unlock cabins, yurts, and city condos while leaning hard into outdoor experiences. We explore unit economics, brand tiers, and why localisation and distribution decide the winners.• Outdoor investment partnerships like Big Cedar with Bass Pro Shop• HGV’s evolution from deeded weeks to flexible points • Member-only experiences from concerts to LPGA events • Outdoor expansion with cabins, yurts, RV pads, tiny homes • Build vs buy strategy and local design standards • Inventory mix, rental channels, and Hilton distribution • Operational maths of towers vs spread-out assets • Amenities that matter: pools, hot tubs, pickleball, wellness • Japan growth story and Asia gateway dynamics • Advice for independents: differentiate or partner for scaleIf somebody's got a unique thing and they're looking for a little power, distribution and a broader network, we're always happy to talk. Reach out to [email protected] - newbook.cloudInterested in learning more about Storable Newbook? Book a software demonstration with one of their market consultants today and don't forget to mention you came from the Outdoor Hospitality Podcast to receive 15% off your Storable Newbook subscription and your first month free. This offer is for Storable Newbook Signature subscriptions only.This podcast is powered by Sage Outdoor Advisory, the industry leaders in feasibility studies and appraisals. 

Send us Fan MailWe sit down with Mike and Ann Howard of HoneyTrek to unpack what truly makes a glamping stay unforgettable, from soul‑led storytelling to small, high‑impact touches that guests remember for years. Their field‑tested tips show how owners can create warm arrivals, immersive experiences, sustainable operations, and thoughtful farewells without huge budgets.• the proprietor’s why as the foundation of brand and experience• researching Comfortably Wild by visiting 150 camps in person• practical storytelling guests can feel• warm arrivals that avoid logistics and build ease• hand‑drawn maps, trails, and low‑cost land adventures• stamped postcards and meaningful keepsakes for lasting bonds• sustainable choices that reduce impact and add trust• staff culture, smiles, and guest‑book rituals for retention• start small, soft launch, iterate, and visit your comps• early SEO, unified handles, and sharing the build in public• partner with nearby camps for overflow and shared assets• high‑impact amenities• HoneyTrek’s consulting, content creation, and global book researchLearn more about Mike and Anne's service at honeytrek.comFollow them at @honeytrekNewbook - newbook.cloudInterested in learning more about Storable Newbook? Book a software demonstration with one of their market consultants today and don't forget to mention you came from the Outdoor Hospitality Podcast to receive 15% off your Newbook subscription and your first month free. This offer is for Newbook Signature subscriptions only.  newbook.cloudSage Outdoor Advisory - sageoutdooradvisory.comThis podcast is powered by Sage Outdoor Advisory, the industry leaders in feasibility studies and appraisals. 

Send us Fan MailWe chart how Ben Wolff scaled from short-term rentals to design-led outdoor resorts, sold into a public REIT, built a content-first marketing firm, and now launches a wellness agritourism brand near Miami called Baya. Clear tactics on funding, pricing, direct bookings and the partners that make it work.• founder-level partners who own execution and upside• debt and equity strategies across banks, CPACE, USDA and VCs• influencer barbell strategy and content-first marketing• 80 to 85% direct bookings as the North Star• manual revenue management beyond algorithm defaults• Onera’s sale, expansion and Wimberley performance• Oasi’s offer, ROAS mindset and client profile• Baya concept blending farm, wellness and jungle design• light, health-forward F&B and sleep technology• daily routines, AI workflows and energy management• singles and doubles until capital markets openSubscribe to Ben Wolff's newsletter via LinkedIn or Ben's instagram @IAm BenWolff. Onera Fredericksburg and Wimberly Property Websites: stayonera.comOasi Marketing & Advertising Website:  stayoasi.comNewbook - www.newbook.cloudInterested in learning more about Newbook? Book a software demonstration with one of their market consultants today and don't forget to mention you came from the Outdoor Hospitality Podcast to receive 15% off your Newbook subscription and your first month free. This offer is for Newbook Signature subscriptions only.This podcast is powered by Sage Outdoor Advisory, the industry leaders in feasibility studies and appraisals. 

Send us Fan MailConnor welcomes new co‑host Shari Heilala to dig into the data, the grit, and the joy that power outdoor hospitality—from feasibility studies and appraisals to design choices that actually raise rates and length of stay. Shari brings a rare mix: she’s valued massive retail portfolios, led international corporate services, developed her own apartments, and for years has guided campgrounds, RV resorts, and glamping projects with lender‑ready analysis.We get practical on what separates a viable concept from a pretty pitch. Shari breaks down the difference between appraisals and feasibility studies, why most outdoor resort valuations are income‑driven, and how lenders read assumptions on occupancy, ADR, expenses, and debt coverage. We explore the shifts inside RV demand—why travel trailers outpace big rigs today, how tow vehicles and fuel costs shape modern rigs, and what is changing in RV resort site design. On the glamping side, we look at competitive edges that last: water access, dark skies, privacy, unique, or uniquely inspired architecture and design. Permitting and entitlements get real talk as well. We share how specialist architects streamline hearings, craft persuasive site plans, and help avoid costly missteps. Shari also opens up about the personal why: growing up on lakes, chasing dawn wakeboard sessions, and believing that well‑designed nature stays are durable because they restore people. If you’re planning a glamping site, expanding an RV resort, or just curious how the best outdoor properties are built, this conversation gives you a roadmap. Subscribe, share, and consider leaving us a review with the one question you want us to tackle next.Clockwork Design Outdoor hospitality's top architecture & design firm. To learn more email [email protected] Outdoor AdvisorySage is the leading outdoor consultancy in feasibility studies and appraisals in the USA.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.This podcast is powered by Sage Outdoor Advisory, the industry leaders in feasibility studies and appraisals. 

Send us Fan MailWe trace Joe Lisa's path from college painting gigs to a $13m experiential hospitality portfolio, exploring how purpose, scrappy execution, and smarter permitting turned failures into fuel. From desert yurts to a reborn Ohio marina, we share what scales, what breaks, and why charm wins.• Aligning purpose with business and life• Invest in your own self development• Soul Stay’s waterfront build and unit mix• Permits, zoning, septic, and conditional use• Bootstrapping Arizona and 29 Palms off‑grid• When to sell, when to scale, when to pause• Boutique charm versus economies of scale• AI for guest messaging, ops, and deal sourcing• Midwest advantages and buy‑box discipline• Working with local government and media• Green flags and red flags in distressed deals• Upcoming sites in Florida and West YellowstoneLinks:Joe Lisa LinkedinSol Stay Lodge and Marina in Sandusky, OHThis episode is brought to you by Clockwork Design- outdoor hospitality's top architecture & design firm. To learn more email [email protected] podcast is powered by Sage Outdoor Advisory, the industry leaders in feasibility studies and appraisals.