Three Reminders For Camp Leaders As You Start Your Summer

 Here are three leadership reminders to my fellow summer camp directors with a John C. Maxwell Quote.

NOW!

1. Leadership is Service, Not Status

Reminder: Your job isn’t to be the most important person at camp—it’s to make everyone else feel like they are. Set the tone by serving your staff, campers, and even the maintenance team with humility and purpose.

Maxwell Quote: “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.”

2. Culture is Caught, Not Taught

Reminder: Camp culture isn’t written in a manual—it’s lived in every interaction. Your daily presence, words, and attitude shape the experience more than any program. Lead by modeling the respect, joy, and accountability you want to see.

Maxwell Quote: “People do what people see.”

3. Empower, Don’t Micromanage

Reminder: Great directors don’t do everything—they equip others to do great work. Trust your team with real responsibility, coach them through setbacks, and celebrate their wins. Leadership is multiplying, not managing.

Maxwell Quote: “Leaders become great, not because of their power, but because of their ability to empower others.”

Then!

Let me know if you like these and I wish you all the safest and best summer ever.

For a copy of my Number 1 selling book, “Serving From The Heart,” visit: https://clpli.com/al_ferreira

7 Lessons From An Unstoppable Leader

I was recently invited to share on the Unstoppable Warrior Tricia Andreassen page on the 7 lessons that she has inspired in me as we wrote our #1 bestseller “Serving From The Heart” Below are those lessons and some links that I shared.

1) Ignite Your Inner Leader

Leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about action. Tricia Andreassen’s IMPACT Leadership® program teaches us to:

• Be Intentional

• Motivate Ourselves and Others

• Know Our Purpose

• Take Consistent Action

• Train and Mentor Future Leaders

Lesson: Intentionality is the cornerstone of effective leadership. By setting clear goals and aligning actions with purpose, leaders can inspire their teams and drive meaningful progress.

I was challenged by Tricia to put down on paper what I have been teaching and modeling through my work at summer camps and outdoor environmental education.

2) From Setback to Comeback!

Tricia’s journey from humble beginnings to thriving entrepreneur exemplifies the power of resilience. Her story reminds us that setbacks often pave the way for incredible comebacks. Embrace your challenges and allow them to fuel your growth.

Lesson: Every obstacle is an opportunity for growth. By viewing challenges as valuable learning experiences, leaders foster resilience and inspire others to persevere.

After spending four years recovering from a car accident that led to a cancer diagnosis during the pandemic, I faced a significant setback. Tricia’s coaching guided me through her own experiences, showing how moving forward amidst adversity can be a transformative blessing, ultimately leading to success with a bestselling book, Serving From The Heart.

Unlock Your Warrior Strength! Here is our interview on the Unstoppable Podcast.

We all have an inner warrior.

3) Leading with your heart.

Servant leadership is about empowering others. Our book, “Serving From The Heart,” offers insights into leading with empathy and purpose. Transform your leadership style and make a lasting impact.

Lesson: Empathy fosters trust and collaboration. Leaders who prioritize understanding and supporting their team members create environments where everyone can thrive.

For me, Tricia has a tremendous amount of empathy that resonated with my own life. Health challenges that led to a pivot in life that led to her helping me draw out a book.

I never expected to be a best-selling author. Tricia and her story led to a tremendous amount of empathy for me. It resounds with my own health journey story. Tricia helped me clarify my story and led to collaborating on the book.

If you have not read it consider getting your copy today at: https://clpli.com/al_ferreira

4) Unlock Your Warrior Strength

We all have an inner warrior ready to rise. Tricia’s “Unlock Your Inner Warrior” program helps you tap into your God-given strength to overcome obstacles and fulfill your purpose.

Lesson: Inner strength is cultivated through self-awareness and faith. Leaders who harness their inner warrior can navigate challenges with confidence and inspire others to do the same.

I have had coaches and mentors in my life. What I find different and inspiring about Tricia is her relational style. Her ability to challenge me and help me move forward through actionable steps.

Awaken your warrior spirit!

5) Build an Unstoppable Brand

“Your brand is more than a logo—it’s your story.” I wrote that down during one of my calls with Tricia. Those strategies help you define your purpose, clarify your identity, and share your message with the world. Stand out and make an impact.

Lesson: Authenticity is key to a compelling brand. Leaders who align their brand with their core values resonate more deeply with their audience and build lasting connections.

During the start of the pandemic, I was being mentored by Paul Martinelli and Roddy Galbraith from the John Maxwell leadership team. Their encouragement to “create content” led to this BLOG.

I have been working on those ever since and have had readers in over 100 countries and over 100,000 different folks who have seen those posts.

Tricia built on that and helped me hone my message and brand into a clear understanding of who I wanted to project. Now I write everything with that understanding as the core basis of my authentic message.

6) Art as a Healing Tool

Tricia combines art and leadership to promote healing and growth. Through creative expression, you can unlock new perspectives and overcome challenges. Explore how art can be a powerful tool in your leadership journey.

Lesson: Creative outlets like art can enhance emotional intelligence. Leaders who engage in creative practices often develop greater empathy and innovative problem-solving skills.

I have been using the term “servant leader artisan” as a way to describe myself. Artisans traditionally make things by hand such as fine objects or even food. My contention is that leadership and leadership skills are something that can be developed or honed over a period of time. One has to work at this and make it a work or opus that improves with practice.

Discover more of Tricia's Art at: Art By Tricia

7) Live Life Unstoppable

Tune into Tricia’s “LiveLifeUnstoppable” podcast for stories of resilience, faith, and leadership. Gain insights and inspiration to navigate your own journey with confidence.

Lesson: Continuous learning fuels leadership growth. By seeking out diverse perspectives and experiences, leaders can adapt and evolve to meet new challenges.

I have always considered myself a life-long learner and to this day. The older I get, I realize the less I know.

This mindset of lifelong learning is very purpose-driven. I wrote about it on my BLOG several years ago.

When I hear Tricia talk about being “unstoppable” I equate that as a drive to continue to move forward with learning no matter the outcome. Wins, losses, success, failure; it is all about learning and moving forward in an unstoppable manner. (Thanks again Tricia)

Listen now!

I wanted to take a moment to thank Tricia Andreassen Author Speaker for the opportunity to share on her platforms. It is just another way that Tricia shares with the folks she pours into.

For a copy of my Number 1 selling book, “Serving From The Heart,” visit: https://clpli.com/al_ferreira

10 Part Series For New Leaders Working At Camp This Summer - Part Ten

        

Part Ten of A Fictional Camp where Lifelong Learning is a Great Value

Drawing inspiration from Al Ferreira's "40 Summers 40 Lessons" series, here's a ten-part fictional narrative that encapsulates the essence of his teachings. This story follows the journey of a young camp leader, Maya, as they navigate the challenges and triumphs of leadership and personal growth.

A comprehensive Leadership Training Guide that integrates the fictional journey of Maya with Al Ferreira's real-life lessons from his "40 Summers 40 Lessons" and "Fifty Nifty Years in the United States" series, along with relevant John Maxwell quotes. This guide is designed to be used in preparing you for this summer and your camp experiences as well as youth leadership development, and mentorship programs.

This guide follows the story of Maya, a first-time camp leader, as they navigate challenges and growth opportunities. Each chapter includes:

• Theme: The central leadership concept.
• Story: Maya's experience illustrating the theme.
• John Maxwell Quote: A relevant insight from leadership expert John C. Maxwell.
• Outcome: The result of applying the lesson.
• Al Ferreira Insight: A real-life lesson from Al Ferreira's coaching blog. (Link provided when appropriate.)
• Summary and Ask Yourself Question? (Summary includes an Unexpected Challenge that could come up.)

 

---

Part 10: A New Beginning

Theme: Continuing the journey

Quote: “Change is inevitable. Growth is optional.”

Story: On the final day, Maya hugs campers goodbye and packs up the cabin.

Outcome: They apply to mentor first-year leaders next summer, ready to give back what they have received. Maya also commits to applying their lessons beyond camp.

Al Ferreira Insight: Reflects on transitions and new beginnings in "That Time I Flew Like Peter Pan (and Ward Kimball)." Al Ferreira Coaching

Leaving Camp Khitomer, Maya feels a mix of sadness and anticipation. They understand that every ending is a new beginning, embodying the cyclical nature of growth and leadership.

• Unexpected Challenge: Maya hesitated to step into a new leadership opportunity, fearing they were not “ready.”

• Lesson: Growth requires courage, not certainty.

• Al Ferreira: “You’re ready when you’re willing—not when you’re perfect.” (Lesson 39)

Ask Yourself? What would you do if you believed you were ready-even if you didn’t feel ready? (Leadership is a choice, not a title.)

 

For a copy of my Number 1 selling book, “Serving From The Heart,” visit: https://clpli.com/al_ferreira

10 Part Series For New Leaders Working At Camp This Summer - Part Nine

       

Part Nine of A Fictional Camp where Lifelong Learning is a Great Value

Drawing inspiration from Al Ferreira's "40 Summers 40 Lessons" series, here's a ten-part fictional narrative that encapsulates the essence of his teachings. This story follows the journey of a young camp leader, Maya, as they navigate the challenges and triumphs of leadership and personal growth.

A comprehensive Leadership Training Guide that integrates the fictional journey of Maya with Al Ferreira's real-life lessons from his "40 Summers 40 Lessons" and "Fifty Nifty Years in the United States" series, along with relevant John Maxwell quotes. This guide is designed to be used in preparing you for this summer and your camp experiences as well as youth leadership development, and mentorship programs.

This guide follows the story of Maya, a first-time camp leader, as they navigate challenges and growth opportunities. Each chapter includes:

• Theme: The central leadership concept.
• Story: Maya's experience illustrating the theme.
• John Maxwell Quote: A relevant insight from leadership expert John C. Maxwell.
• Outcome: The result of applying the lesson.
• Al Ferreira Insight: A real-life lesson from Al Ferreira's coaching blog. (Link provided when appropriate.)
• Summary and Ask Yourself Question? (Summary includes an Unexpected Challenge that could come up.)

 

---

Part 9: Reflecting on Growth

Theme: Self-awareness

Quote: “Growth is the great separator between those who succeed and those who do not.” – John C. Maxwell

Story: In their journal, Maya tracks the growth they have undergone—from shy first-timer to calm, decisive leader with a clear sense of purpose.

As summer concludes, Maya reflects on their own transformation. They acknowledge the lessons learned, the friendships forged, and the leader they have become.

Outcome: Maya identifies areas for continued growth and sets future goals.

Al Ferreira Insight: Shares insights on leadership growth in "1989 - Stewardship – Leadership Lessons in Stewardship." Al Ferreira Coaching

• Unexpected Challenge: Maya’s self-reflection felt like self-congratulation until a peer gently challenged their blind spots.

• Lesson: Real growth invites critique.

• Al Ferreira: “Feedback is a gift. It’s not always a hug.” (Lesson 36)

Ask Yourself? Who gives you honest feedback-and how do you respond to it? (Reflection deepens when it’s shared and challenged.)

For a copy of my Number 1 selling book, “Serving From The Heart,” visit: https://clpli.com/al_ferreira

10 Part Series For New Leaders Working At Camp This Summer - Part Eight

      

Part Eight of A Fictional Camp where Lifelong Learning is a Great Value

Drawing inspiration from Al Ferreira's "40 Summers 40 Lessons" series, here's a ten-part fictional narrative that encapsulates the essence of his teachings. This story follows the journey of a young camp leader, Maya, as they navigate the challenges and triumphs of leadership and personal growth.

A comprehensive Leadership Training Guide that integrates the fictional journey of Maya with Al Ferreira's real-life lessons from his "40 Summers 40 Lessons" and "Fifty Nifty Years in the United States" series, along with relevant John Maxwell quotes. This guide is designed to be used in preparing you for this summer and your camp experiences as well as youth leadership development, and mentorship programs.

This guide follows the story of Maya, a first-time camp leader, as they navigate challenges and growth opportunities. Each chapter includes:

• Theme: The central leadership concept.
• Story: Maya's experience illustrating the theme.
• John Maxwell Quote: A relevant insight from leadership expert John C. Maxwell.
• Outcome: The result of applying the lesson.
• Al Ferreira Insight: A real-life lesson from Al Ferreira's coaching blog. (Link provided when appropriate.)
• Summary and Ask Yourself Question? (Summary includes an Unexpected Challenge that could come up.)

 

---

Part 8: Building a Team of 10s

Theme: Team development

Quote: “Teamwork makes the dream work, but a vision becomes a nightmare when the leader has a big dream and a bad team.” – John C. Maxwell

Story: Maya starts investing in one-on-one check-ins with the team, aiming to raise the average—to develop a culture of 10s.

Recognizing the strengths of their fellow leaders, Maya fosters a supportive environment, aiming for a "consistent team of 10's," as I have advocated.

Outcome: The team's synergy leads to exceptional camper experiences.

Al Ferreira Insight: Emphasizes the importance of valuing team members in "2022 - Listening and Leadership - A Reminder For Summer's Leaders." Al Ferreira Coaching

• Unexpected Challenge: Maya gave only positive feedback, avoiding tough conversations with underperforming peers.

• Lesson: Encouragement must include accountability.

• Al Ferreira Insight: “Leaders must love their teams enough to be honest.” (Lesson 34)

Ask Yourself? Are you building others up-or keeping the peace at the cost of growth? (Support your team by challenging them too.)

For a copy of my Number 1 selling book, “Serving From The Heart,” visit: https://clpli.com/al_ferreira

10 Part Series For New Leaders Working At Camp This Summer - Part Seven

     

Part Seven of A Fictional Camp where Lifelong Learning is a Great Value

Drawing inspiration from Al Ferreira's "40 Summers 40 Lessons" series, here's a ten-part fictional narrative that encapsulates the essence of his teachings. This story follows the journey of a young camp leader, Maya, as they navigate the challenges and triumphs of leadership and personal growth.

A comprehensive Leadership Training Guide that integrates the fictional journey of Maya with Al Ferreira's real-life lessons from his "40 Summers 40 Lessons" and "Fifty Nifty Years in the United States" series, along with relevant John Maxwell quotes. This guide is designed to be used in preparing you for this summer and your camp experiences as well as youth leadership development, and mentorship programs.

This guide follows the story of Maya, a first-time camp leader, as they navigate challenges and growth opportunities. Each chapter includes:

• Theme: The central leadership concept.
• Story: Maya's experience illustrating the theme.
• John Maxwell Quote: A relevant insight from leadership expert John C. Maxwell.
• Outcome: The result of applying the lesson.
• Al Ferreira Insight: A real-life lesson from Al Ferreira's coaching blog. (Link provided when appropriate.)
• Summary and Ask Yourself Question? (Summary includes an Unexpected Challenge that could come up.)

 

---

Part 7: The Power of Storytelling

Theme: Vulnerability in leadership

Quote: “People may hear your words, but they feel your attitude.” – John C. Maxwell

Story: Sharing a painful childhood story around the campfire, Maya connects deeply with their campers and staff, learning that vulnerability builds trust.

Maya shares a personal story during a campfire session, realizing the impact of storytelling in leadership—a concept I have emphasized. (Beware that the stories you share are camp, age, and emotionally appropriate.)

Outcome: Maya's authenticity strengthens camper relationships.

Al Ferreira Insight: Discusses storytelling's impact in "Six Rules That Elevate Your Camp Through Storytelling." Al Ferreira Coaching

• Unexpected Challenge: Maya told a deeply personal story without checking emotional readiness—leaving them feeling too exposed.

• Lesson: Vulnerability is powerful, but timing matters.

• Al Ferreira: “Not every story needs to be told now.” (Lesson 27)

Ask Yourself? When has someone’s story helped you feel less alone-and how could your story do the same for someone else? (Timing and purpose matter in storytelling.)

For a copy of my Number 1 selling book, “Serving From The Heart,” visit: https://clpli.com/al_ferreira

10 Part Series For New Leaders Working At Camp This Summer - Part Six

    

Part Six of A Fictional Camp where Lifelong Learning is a Great Value

Drawing inspiration from Al Ferreira's "40 Summers 40 Lessons" series, here's a ten-part fictional narrative that encapsulates the essence of his teachings. This story follows the journey of a young camp leader, Maya, as they navigate the challenges and triumphs of leadership and personal growth.

A comprehensive Leadership Training Guide that integrates the fictional journey of Maya with Al Ferreira's real-life lessons from his "40 Summers 40 Lessons" and "Fifty Nifty Years in the United States" series, along with relevant John Maxwell quotes. This guide is designed to be used in preparing you for this summer and your camp experiences as well as youth leadership development, and mentorship programs.

This guide follows the story of Maya, a first-time camp leader, as they navigate challenges and growth opportunities. Each chapter includes:

• Theme: The central leadership concept.
• Story: Maya's experience illustrating the theme.
• John Maxwell Quote: A relevant insight from leadership expert John C. Maxwell.
• Outcome: The result of applying the lesson.
• Al Ferreira Insight: A real-life lesson from Al Ferreira's coaching blog. (Link provided when appropriate.)
• Summary and Ask Yourself Question? (Summary includes an Unexpected Challenge that could come up.)

 

---

Part 6: Facing Negativity

Theme: Reframing challenge

Quote: “You cannot overestimate the unimportance of practically everything.”

Story: One camper constantly complains and isolates. Maya shifts from frustration to curiosity.

Confronted with a camper's negativity, Maya remembers the lesson: "What Gift Is This Person Giving Me?" They shift her perspective, viewing challenges as opportunities for growth.

Al Ferreira Insight: I explored this concept in "2012 - What Gift Is This Person Giving Me?" Al Ferreira Coaching

Outcome: Through patient conversations, the camper begins to participate and smile more often.

• Unexpected Challenge: Maya tried to “fix” a difficult camper too quickly, without understanding his backstory.

• Lesson: Listening is the first intervention.

• Al Ferreira: “Campers will test you—because they want to trust you.” (Lesson 21)

Ask Yourself? What might someone’s difficult behavior be trying to tell you? (Behavior is communication.)

For a copy of my Number 1 selling book, “Serving From The Heart,” visit: https://clpli.com/al_ferreira