Episode Overview

In the premiere episode of Outwired, hosts Brian Searl, Scott Bahr, and Greg Emmert launch an unfiltered, candid discussion about the intersection of technology, data, and the rapidly changing world of outdoor hospitality. They set the stage for why they’ve created this new show: to speak the blunt, data-driven truth about the challenges and opportunities facing campground owners, operators, and anyone interested in the outdoor hospitality sector.

They cover a wide range of topics in this first conversation, including:

The shifting economic landscape and how it may impact campground camper nights.
Why “cautious optimism” can sometimes be misleading and how to prepare for potential downturns.
The growing importance of offering unique experiences and hospitality in a market no longer guaranteed to fill up on its own.
Introduction to AI tools (especially ChatGPT) and why understanding them—even at a beginner level—is critical for campground owners and professionals right now.
A reminder that the show is all about helping listeners develop critical thinking in order to stay ahead of emerging technologies and market shifts.

Though this episode takes on a “tough love” angle and emphasizes some potentially challenging realities, all three hosts insist their goal is to help campground owners navigate the future with confidence.

Key Discussion Points

1. Why “Unfiltered” Matters

Kindness vs. Blunt Honesty: The hosts stress their intention is not to offend but to be transparent and straightforward.
Backgrounds & Perspectives: Brian runs Insider Perks and Modern Campground; Scott leads Cairn Consulting Group (data/research); Greg runs Camp Strategy (consulting). They bring complementary expertise rooted in marketing, data, and camp operations.

2. Changing Market & Economic Realities

Post-Pandemic Shifts: Previously, campgrounds often filled up automatically (2011–2019, plus the pandemic surge). Now, the market isn’t guaranteed, and “if you build it, they might not come.”
Economic Pressures: Inflation, rising costs, and changing traveler behavior imply that relying on old strategies or simply raising rates no longer works seamlessly.
Preparing for Flat or Down: Owners should plan for the possibility that camper nights could be flat or drop. Starting from a conservative baseline can lead to better decision-making.

3. Crafting Unique Campground Experiences

Identifying Differentiators: Many parks offer a standard pool, playground, or Wi-Fi. Standing out now requires new thinking around amenities, activities, and true hospitality.
Reverse Registration Example: Greg shares how simply greeting arrivals at their vehicle and handling check-in later makes a big first impression. Small changes can significantly elevate guest experience.
Hospitality & Service: Sincere friendliness, personalized touches, and genuine community feel can be more memorable (and cheaper to implement) than mega-amenities alone.

4. Introduction to AI & ChatGPT

AI’s Rapid Rise: Brian demonstrates using ChatGPT to analyze websites, gather competitor pricing, and illustrate how quickly tasks can be automated.
Practical Applications:
Prompting ChatGPT to determine which demographic segments are NOT a good fit for your park.
Using AI to create a marketing plan targeting the audience that is the right fit.
Potential for AI-driven discovery: People are already asking tools like ChatGPT for “best campgrounds near X,” and if you’re not optimized, you won’t appear.
Critical Thinking Matters: Encouraging listeners to play around with AI, ask deeper questions, and then leverage that learning to sharpen business strategy.

5. Looking Ahead

The Promise of Outwired: Future episodes will focus on the practicalities of marketing, deeper dives into AI tools, fresh research data, and real-world consulting tips.
Action vs. Anxiety: Despite some cautions about the economy and new tech, the goal is empowering campground owners to adapt and thrive.

Timestamps (Approximate)

[00:00:00] Opening & Introductions
Brian kicks off the show with humor about “sweet potato birds” and tech issues.
[00:06:00] Why an Unfiltered Show?
Explanation of their no-holds-barred approach and wanting to speak bluntly.
[00:14:30] Economic Concerns & Cautious Optimism
Hosts dissect why campground owners shouldn’t rely on the “if you build it, they will come” mentality anymore.
[00:29:00] Experience as the Differentiator
Real-world examples of small changes that elevate guest experience.
[00:40:00] AI in the Camping Industry
Brian demonstrates ChatGPT’s power and how it’s already reshaping consumer search and decision-making.
[00:56:00] Adopting the Right Mindset
Encouraging owners to start using AI immediately, test it with simple prompts, and not fear being a beginner.
[01:10:00] Looking to the Future
Discussion on how fast AI is moving, the inevitability of it infiltrating everyday life, and the risk of being left behind.
[01:45:00] Final Takeaways & Wrap-Up
Greg, Scott, and Brian encourage listeners to stay humble, keep learning, plan for conservative forecasts, and embrace new tools like ChatGPT.

Actionable Takeaways

Identify Your Target Market: Use data (or AI) to see who finds your campground appealing—and who doesn’t.
Enhance Guest Experience: Small, creative gestures (like greeting arrivals before check-in) can set you apart more than just big amenities.
Explore ChatGPT: Start with personal or fun prompts to get comfortable, then pivot to tasks like competitor research or marketing plans.
Plan Conservatively for 2024–25: Assume camper nights may be flat or down; prepare your strategies (marketing, budgets, CapEx) accordingly.
Monitor & Adapt: Regularly reassess your positioning—whether it’s your website SEO or the amenities you offer. Stay open to continuous learning.

Connect with the Hosts

Brian Searl
Founder of Insider Perks and Modern Campground
LinkedIn: Brian on LinkedIn

Scott Bahr
President, Cairn Consulting Group (Research & Data)
Website: Cairn Consulting Group

Greg Emmert
Founder, Camp Strategy (Campground Consulting)
Website: Camp Strategy

Next Episode Sneak Peek

Deep dive into practical AI prompts for campground marketing.
Strategies for collecting and leveraging data to personalize guest experiences.
More tips for weathering economic uncertainty without compromising guest satisfaction.

Thank you for joining us for the inaugural episode of Outwired! Expect more straight talk on technology, data, marketing, and everything that helps propel the outdoor hospitality industry into the future. If you enjoyed the conversation, be sure to tune in next time for more insights, laughs, and unfiltered advice.

Outwired - Episode 1