Suppliers Spot Spotlight - CalOHA

Summary

In this episode of Supplier Spot Spotlight, host Bobby Sorton interviews Diana Kelly, Executive Director and President of the California Outdoor Hospitality Association (CalOHA). They discuss CalOHA's 50th anniversary, its advocacy for campground regulations, and the Western States Campground Solutions Summit, a new event aimed at uniting campground owners and suppliers from 11 western states for education, networking, and trade opportunities. The conversation also touches on Supplier Spot, a platform designed to connect suppliers and campgrounds, and the importance of community and innovation in the outdoor hospitality industry.

Takeaways

• 🎙️ The 'Supplier Spot Spotlight' podcast focuses on the RV Park and Campground industry, featuring interviews with suppliers, park owners, and staff to share insights and stories.
• 🌟 The guest, Diana Kelly, is the Executive Director and President of the California Outdoor Hospitality Association (Cal OHA), celebrating its 50th Anniversary.
• 🤝 Diana and the host, Bobby, met at a previous glamping show where Bobby's former company was a member of Cal OHA and a sponsor of an event.
• 🛠 Bobby is currently rebuilding the Supplier Spot platform to improve its layout and functionality, aiming for a more user-friendly experience.
• 🏪 Supplier Spot is envisioned as a centralized marketplace for campground suppliers, allowing them to list popular items and connect with campground owners and operators.
• 📈 Cal OHA was established by campground owners to represent the RV industry in legislative matters and fight for laws beneficial to the industry.
• 🔍 Diana provides advisory and consulting services to new industry entrants, helping them navigate the regulatory process for opening campgrounds in California.
• 📚 Cal OHA operates on four pillars: Communications, Advocacy, Marketing, and Programs, offering a range of member benefits including legal assistance and marketing support.
• 🎉 The association is planning the Western States Campground Solutions Summit to bring together campground owners and operators from 11 Western States for education, networking, and trade.
• 🎟️ Current Cal OHA supplier partners will receive priority registration and discounted rates for the upcoming summit, encouraging non-members to join for these benefits.
• 🤔 The podcast also discusses the challenges of music licensing for campgrounds, suggesting that owners explore alternative solutions to the high cost of multiple licenses.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the 'Supplier Spot Spotlight' podcast?

The 'Supplier Spot Spotlight' podcast aims to highlight the RV Park and Campground outdoor hospitality industry by providing insights, strategies, and stories that can elevate the outdoor experience through conversations with suppliers, park owners, and staff.

Who is Diana Kelly and what is her role in the industry?

Diana Kelly is the executive director and president of the California Outdoor Hospitality Association (Cal OHA), and she plays a significant role in advocating for and supporting the outdoor hospitality industry in California.

What is the significance of the California Outdoor Hospitality Association's (Cal OHA) 50th Anniversary?

The 50th Anniversary of Cal OHA signifies five decades of service and advocacy for the outdoor hospitality industry in California, highlighting its long-standing commitment to the sector.

What was the original motivation behind the formation of Cal OHA?

Cal OHA was originally formed by a group of campground owners and operators who recognized the need for a unified voice in the legislature to fight against potentially damaging laws and advocate for the enhancement of the RV industry.

How does the 'Supplier Spot' platform function and what is its goal?

The 'Supplier Spot' platform serves as a centralized location for suppliers in the outdoor hospitality industry, offering a virtual trade show experience. Its goal is to provide a one-stop spot for campground owners and operators to find valuable resources and connect with suppliers.

What is the Western States Campground Solutions Summit and what is its objective?

The Western States Campground Solutions Summit is an event being planned to bring together campground owners and operators from 11 Western States for educational seminars, a trade show, networking opportunities, and potentially campground tours. Its objective is to provide a central gathering point for industry professionals who may not typically attend shows on the other side of the Rockies.

Why was Reno, Nevada chosen as the location for the Western States Campground Solutions Summit?

Reno, Nevada was chosen as it provides a central location that is more accessible for those in the Western States, making it easier for a broader range of industry professionals to attend.

What benefits do Cal OHA members receive in relation to the Western States Campground Solutions Summit?

Cal OHA members receive priority registration and discounted registration for the Western States Campground Solutions Summit, ensuring they have better access to this industry event.

How does Cal OHA support its members in terms of legal and regulatory compliance?

Cal OHA offers free legal assistance to its members, including unlimited calls to their legal team, to help navigate the complex regulatory environment for campgrounds and RV parks in California.

What is the 'Camp California' brand and how does it benefit the industry?

The 'Camp California' brand is a marketing initiative by Cal OHA to promote RV parks and campgrounds in California to camping consumers. It includes a website, a campers' guide, social media marketing, and news blasts to camping consumers, aiming to drive traffic back to member campgrounds.