MC Fireside Chats - March 13th, 2024

MC Fireside Chats

In a recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, a vibrant discussion unfolded featuring a panel of distinguished guests from the outdoor hospitality and glamping industry. The episode was rich with insights from Ruben Martinez, Angele Miller, Louis Dupont, Miguel Huerta, Todd Wynne-Parry, Chris Jeub, Zach Stoltenberg, and Alessandro van de Loo. Each guest brought their unique perspective to the table, covering a wide array of topics that are currently shaping the industry. Ruben Martinez, shedding light on the role of associations in the industry, emphasized the importance of providing resources, networking opportunities, and a sense of community for those involved in glamping and outdoor hospitality. His insights highlighted the collaborative spirit that drives the industry forward, underscoring the value of shared knowledge and experiences. Angele Miller, representing Creek Side R&R Glamping Resort, shared her journey of founding and franchising her glamping resort. Her story is a testament to the growing demand for glamping experiences and the potential for expansion in both Canada and the United States. Miller’s experience underscored the entrepreneurial spirit that fuels the industry’s growth and innovation. Louis Dupont introduced the audience to Hekipia America’s venture into the U.S. market, bringing European design and standards to American glamping sites. His narrative detailed the challenges and triumphs of adapting to different regulatory and consumer expectations, highlighting the global nature of the glamping industry and the cross-pollination of ideas and designs. Miguel Huerta, as the president of the Mexican Glamping Association and CEO of Nantel Living, shared his perspective on the industry’s growth in Mexico. He discussed the significance of embracing glamping within the larger tourism sector and the opportunities for cross-border collaboration and learning. Huerta’s insights painted a picture of a vibrant and evolving glamping scene in Mexico. Todd Wynne-Parry offered a wealth of knowledge from his experience in consulting for the glamping and outdoor hospitality industry. His discussion on the financial aspects of glamping projects, from investment to return on investment, provided a comprehensive overview of the economic dynamics at play. Wynne-Parry’s expertise highlighted the importance of strategic planning and investment in the success of glamping ventures. Chris Jeub, known as the “glamping guy,” shared his journey from teaching to establishing a successful glamping operation. His focus on education and helping landowners develop profitable glamping sites underscored the potential for personal and financial growth within the industry. Jeub’s story is a reminder of the transformative power of glamping, both for guests and operators. Zach Stoltenberg brought an architectural perspective to the discussion, emphasizing the importance of design in creating memorable glamping experiences. His work with Clockwork Architecture in master planning and designing glamping resorts showcases the critical role of thoughtful, innovative design in setting apart glamping sites in a crowded market. Alessandro van de Loo, although joining late and facing technical difficulties, was poised to contribute his insights into the industry. His presence underscored the diverse range of expertise and viewpoints that enrich the glamping and outdoor hospitality industry. The episode was a deep dive into the complexities, challenges, and opportunities within the glamping and outdoor hospitality industry. Each speaker contributed to a nuanced discussion that highlighted the industry’s dynamic nature, the importance of innovation, quality, and personal touch, and the potential for future growth and development. The conversation reflected the collaborative spirit of the industry, with each guest offering valuable insights based on their experiences and expertise. As the industry continues to evolve, the perspectives shared in this episode of MC Fireside Chats will undoubtedly play a role in shaping its future direction.