Thursday, May 29, 2025

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


Tuesday, May 27, 2025

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


Friday, May 23, 2025

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


Wednesday, May 21, 2025

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


Monday, May 19, 2025

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


Friday, May 16, 2025

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

   

Part Five 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 5: The Night Hike

Theme: Resilience


Quote: “The greatest day... is when we take total responsibility for our attitudes.”

Story: When bad weather hits mid-hike, Maya chooses calm and focus over panic.

Outcome: Her campers feel safe and confident, and her director praises their crisis response.

Leading a night hike to Castle Rock, Maya faces unforeseen challenges. The experience teaches Maya resilience and the significance of shared journeys, paralleling my reflections on hikes in Big Bear Lake. Al Ferreira Coaching

Outcome: Her campers feel safe and confident, and her director praises her crisis response.

Al Ferreira Insight: Reflects on similar experiences in "2020 Summer's End – 'You're crying, so I know you are doing it right.'" Pinterest

  • Unexpected Challenge: Maya didn’t double-check supplies—several flashlights died halfway through.
  • Lesson: Plan for the unexpected, even when confident.
  • Al Ferreira: “Preparation is invisible—but essential.” (Lesson 17)

Ask Yourself? How do you respond when things begin to go wrong and everyone is watching? (Having grace and giving grace under pressure earns trust from your co-leaders and supervisors.)

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


Wednesday, May 14, 2025

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

  

Part Four 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 4: Planning with Purpose

Theme: Intentionality


Quote: “A leader who produces other leaders multiplies their influences.” – John C. Maxwell


Story: Charged with running a camp-wide Olympics, Maya organizes their peers by including their ideas—learning how shared ownership fuels success.

Tasked with organizing a camp-wide event, Maya recalls the story of "George – George – George" and the lessons in planning. They learn to balance top-down directives with grassroots input. Pinterest

Outcome: The event is a success, and Maya is invited to join the leadership track for next summer.

Al Ferreira Insight: Shares lessons on planning in "2013 - George – George – George – Lessons in Planning."

  • Unexpected Challenge: Maya didn’t delegate during the Olympics planning—burning out and missing key details.
  • Lesson: Shared leadership is stronger leadership.
  • Al Ferreira: “Teach others to lead, and they will surprise you.” (Lesson 12)

Ask Yourself? When was the last time you gave someone else a chance to lead-even if you could have done it faster or different? (Empowerment beats perfection and we teach best what we need to learn most.)

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


Monday, May 12, 2025

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

 

Part Three 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 3: The Unexpected Mentor

Theme: Learning through others


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


Story: Alex, a senior leader, models wisdom and calm. Maya learns that leadership is as much about example as it is about instruction.

Maya meets Alex, a seasoned leader with a unique leadership style. Through Alex, they experience the value of diverse leadership approaches, reminiscent of my experiences with leaders like Jackie Pask, an aquatics director. Pinterest

Outcome: Maya begins modeling calm leadership themself, earning respect from more seasoned leaders.

Al Ferreira Insight: Highlights the impact of mentorship in "1985 - Leadership Lessons from the 'Real Thing.'" Al Ferreira Coaching+1Al Ferreira Coaching+1

  • Unexpected Challenge: Maya assumed Alex’s calm meant disinterest and initially dismissed his style.
  • Lesson: Don’t confuse humility with apathy—observe before judging.
  • Al Ferreira: “Leadership is not always loud.” (Implied throughout Al’s reflections on quiet influence)

Ask Yourself? Who do you quietly learn from and what might they be teaching without saying a word? (Leadership often hides in humility and consistency. I often look for the unofficial leaders in every group who influence others.)

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


Friday, May 9, 2025

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

 

Part Two 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 2: Embracing Traditions

Theme: Legacy and continuity


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

Story: Learning the camp's rituals, Maya sees how traditions shape culture. They commit to honoring them while lifting your fellow staff.

During orientation, Maya learns about the camp's cherished traditions. They understand the importance of rituals in building community, echoing my insights on "traditions" and empowering others. Al Ferreira Coaching

Outcome: Her initiative leads to higher camper engagement, and she’s asked to lead opening ceremony the next week.

Al Ferreira Insight: Discusses the role of traditions in empowering others in his post "2010 - Leadership Curriculum and A Copy of a Fax of a Copy of A Fax." Al Ferreira Coaching

  • Unexpected Challenge: Maya tried to modernize a tradition without asking permission—offending veteran staff and confusing campers.
  • Lesson: Change requires respect for legacy
  • Al Ferreira: “We should be fans of our camp’s traditions—and contributors to their evolution.” (Lesson 15)

Ask Yourself? How do you decide whether to preserve, question, or change a tradition? (Respect traditions that enhance the camper experience before trying to evolve them)

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


Thursday, May 8, 2025

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

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 1: The First Step

Theme: New beginnings


Quote: “You’ll never change your life until you change something you do daily. The secret of your success is found in your daily routine.” – John C. Maxwell

Outcome: By the end of the first week, Maya earns trust from the campers and peers through consistency and presence.

Story: Maya arrives at Camp Khitomer for their first summer as a leader, anxious but excited. They are stepping into a world of new routines and the unknown.

Maya, a recent high school graduate, arrives at Camp Khitomer for their first summer as a leader. Nervous yet eager, they recall my lesson: "Camp is all about beginnings and endings." Al Ferreira Coaching

Al Ferreira Insight: Emphasizes the importance of beginnings and endings in camp experiences, as discussed in his blog post "Top Five All Time BLOGS - The End of Summer 2024 Issue." Al Ferreira Coaching

  • Unexpected Challenge: Maya arrived overprepared on logistics but underprepared emotionally. Her rigid schedule flopped on Day 1
  • Lesson: Flexibility and presence matter more than control.
  • Al Ferreira: “Camp staff are not hired to run programs. They are hired to run relationships.” (Lesson 10)

Ask Yourself? What daily habit could you start (or stop) that would help you lead more effectively? (Remember, relationships are more important than perfectly executed activities.)


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



Keep Showing Up (Cabin and Activity Leader Version)

    VERSION 2 Here is a little fable of some Camp folks I have known. They were often leaders who have been around for at least a dozen year...