Ghany Gatherings

Ghany Gatherings Episode 14: Setting Your Camper Up For Success

What we say to our children about camp matters more than we often realize.
In this episode, Elizabeth is joined by Mini Camp Director Maggie Meyer and Wellness Counselor Jameson Sellers, both alumnae and camp moms, for a thoughtful conversation on how to set your camper up for success.
We walk through the full timeline of the camp experience, from the weeks leading up to camp, to Opening Day, to communication during camp, and even the return home. Along the way, we gently explore how our words, even when rooted in love, can sometimes land differently than we intend, and how small shifts in communication can make a meaningful difference.
This episode is designed to help parents feel more confident, more prepared, and more aligned with the experience we are creating for your camper.
We are also so excited to introduce Maggie and Jameson on the podcast for the first time. I hope you enjoy hearing their perspectives as much as I do.Elizabeth@campalleghany.comMiniCamp@campalleghany.comParent ResourcesParent HandbookCamp Tip Tuesday | Tracey Weiss

Ghany Gatherings Episode 13: The Camp Store!

The Camp Store is more than just a place to grab a sweatshirt or toothpaste, it is an important part of the camp experience.
In this episode, Elizabeth is joined by Store Managers Jennifer and Sarah, both alumnae and 'Ghany moms, to talk all things Camp Store. We cover what the store is, what we carry, and how campers make purchases, along with the logistics parents often have questions about.
We also talk about something deeper, the independence and decision-making that comes with having a store account, choosing how to spend money, and even how to spend free time.
And of course, we could not resist sharing a few fun previews of new merch for the summer, so be sure to listen through to the end!
A fun and helpful listen for all families.
Elizabeth@campalleghany.comStore@campalleghany.com 

BONUS! Q&A Session Part 2

In this bonus episode of Ghany Gatherings, we’re sharing a recording of our second Spring Q&A session of 2026. Hear questions from parents and campers on everything from trunks and laundry, to bugs and critters, and everything in between, along with Stephanie and Elizabeth’s thoughtful responses and conversation.
This episode also features three of our 2026 Head Counselors - Lily, Sammy, and Manuela. 
Alleghany FAQs
Elizabeth@campalleghany.comStephanie@campalleghany.com 

BONUS! Q&A Session Part 1

In this bonus episode of Ghany Gatherings, we’re sharing a recording of our first Spring Q&A session. Hear questions from parents and campers on everything from packing to weather, along with Stephanie and Elizabeth’s thoughtful responses and conversation.
Alleghany FAQs
Elizabeth@campalleghany.comStephanie@campalleghany.com 

Ghany Gatherings Episode 12: Homesickness at Camp

Homesickness is one of the most common and most meaningful parts of the camp experience.
In this episode, Elizabeth is joined by Program Director Stephanie and Wellness Counselor Angiemil Pérez Peña to talk honestly about what homesickness really is, what may be underneath those feelings, and how we support campers through it at Alleghany.
We walk through how homesickness can show up, how our team responds with care and intention, and why these moments, while sometimes uncomfortable, are often where some of the most important growth happens.
This is a helpful listen for current families, new families, and anyone considering camp who wants a deeper understanding of how we approach this part of the experience.
Resources:Parent HandbookParent Resources Web PageElizabeth@campalleghany.comStephanie@campalleghany.com 

Ghany Gatherings Episode 11: Building Trust in Summer Camp - An Honest Conversation with Camp Directors

In this episode, I’m joined by three of my dearest friends in the camp world, fellow directors Jalisa Danhoff, Amber Grundy, and Anne Izard.
These women are not only leaders in their own camps, but also part of my personal support system in this unique and often demanding work. Together, we have spent years talking through the realities of camp, supporting one another, and continually asking how we can do this work better for the families we serve.
In this conversation, we open that dialogue up to you.
We talk honestly about the concerns we hear from parents, the realities of the camp industry today, and how we, as directors, are responding. Our goal is simple: to build trust, create transparency, and form a true partnership with families.
This episode is for everyone, but it may be especially helpful for new or camp-curious parents who are navigating questions, hesitations, or uncertainty about the camp experience.
I am so excited to introduce these incredible women to the Alleghany community, and I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as we did!
Additionally, this group recently launched our own podcast, The Camp Mastermind Podcast, so check that out as well! :)

Ghany Gatherings Episode 10: All Things Packing!

Packing for camp can feel like a lot, especially the first time.
In this episode, I’m joined by Program Director Stephanie and special guest Courtney Clawson, camp mom, co-Head of Family Camp, and our Lifeguard Instructor, to walk through it all from multiple perspectives. Between Courtney’s experience packing for younger Junior Camp campers and Stephanie’s experience with older girls, from LITs to counselors, we cover the full range.
We talk through everything from trunks and duffels to linens, clothing, and all the “extras,” along with what is actually needed, what is not, and what should definitely stay at home.
Our biggest takeaway? Don’t overthink it. The first year is the hardest, and it truly gets easier from there.
This is a longer episode, so feel free to put us on 1.5 speed or break it up into a few listening sessions. However you listen, you won’t want to miss it!Packing List
Elizabeth@campalleghany.comStephanie@campalleghany.comFamilyCamp@campalleghany.com

Ghany Gatherings Episode 9: Handling the “What Ifs”: A Conversation About Common Parent Worries

In this episode, Elizabeth is joined by Program Director Stephanie and Office Manager Mary-Curtis for an honest conversation about the “what ifs” that parents often carry into the summer.
From homesickness to making friends, navigating a rough day, or not quite clicking with tentmates, we talk through the most common concerns we hear from families each year. We share how we approach these moments at camp, how we keep a close and thoughtful eye on our campers, and why these experiences, while sometimes uncomfortable, are often where the most meaningful growth happens.
We also introduce the idea of building a camper’s “struggle muscle,” and how learning to move through small challenges at camp can prepare girls for much bigger moments later on.
This episode is based on Elizabeth’s blog, “What If…? Handling Challenges and Curveballs in Your Camper’s Summer at Alleghany,” and is designed to offer both perspective and peace of mind as you prepare for the summer ahead.
Elizabeth@campalleghany.com  Stephanie@campalleghany.com Info@campalleghany.com 

Ghany Gatherings Episode 8: Medication, Health, and Wellness at Alleghany

In this episode, Elizabeth is joined by Nurse Katie and Dr. Lauren to talk all things health, wellness, and medication at Camp Alleghany. From how our Infirmary operates, to how we handle illness and injuries, to important medication policies (including exactly how to package medications from home), this conversation covers it all. We also touch on emergencies, communication with families, and the many layers of care in place to support your camper.
This is truly a must-listen, even for our veteran families. There is so much helpful and important information packed into this episode. And if it feels a little long, just pop us on 1.5 speed 😊
👉 Be sure to review our medication instructions before Opening Day so you are fully prepared (also found at 39:24 of this episode)
💊 Link to medication packaging
💌 Email Elizabeth@campalleghany.com 

Ghany Gatherings Episode 7: Mail, Packages, and Communication from Camp

In this episode, Elizabeth and Mary-Curtis walk through how communication works at camp—from camper letters and Camp Stamps to our No Package Policy and why it exists. They also share what families can expect in terms of updates from camp, including daily newsletters, weekly emails, and when you may hear from us directly. This episode will help you feel prepared, connected, and confident heading into the summer.