Podcast · Kids & Family

Ghany Gatherings

by campalleghany · English · Kids & Family

Ghany Gatherings is the official podcast of Camp Alleghany for Girls, a traditional overnight summer camp located on the Greenbrier River in West Virginia. Hosted by Director Elizabeth Shreckhise, this podcast is created for current camp families and for those exploring whether summer camp is the r

New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 1 hr 2 min
Latest: 13 Oct 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

13 Oct 2026 · 1 hr 10 minNew

S2:E4 | What is Mini Camp?

What exactly is Mini Camp, and how do you know if it's the right fit for your daughter? In this episode of Ghany Gatherings, Elizabeth is joined by Mini Camp Director Maggie Meyer and Program Director Stephanie Albert to break down everything families need to know about this special one-week introduction to Camp Alleghany. From who Mini Camp is designed for to what a typical day looks like, they explore how the program helps first-time campers build confidence, make friends, and experience the magic of Alleghany. They also discuss one of the most important things to understand about Mini…

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Earlier episodes 29 most recent

S2 · E3 · 6 Oct 2026 · 1 hr 17 min
S2:E3 | What is Mother-Daughter Weekend?
What exactly is Mother-Daughter Weekend at Alleghany, and why is it such a special introduction to camp? In this episode, Elizabeth sits down with Mother-Daughter Weekend Co-Heads Ace and Mae Dandridge for a sweet conversation about camp, connection, and what families can expect from this unique weekend. You’ll get to know Ace and Mae a little better, hear about their own Alleghany journeys and the passion they bring to camp, and learn more about why Mother-Daughter Weekend exists in the first place. We talk about who the weekend is designed for, what the experience actually looks like, how…
S2 · E2 · 29 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 18 min
S2 | E2: Why Three Weeks?
Three weeks can sound like a long time, especially when your child has never been away from home that long before. It’s one of the questions we hear most often from families: Why three weeks? Why not offer a shorter Term Camp option? In this episode, Elizabeth, Stephanie, and Mary-Curtis dig into the history behind Alleghany’s three-week terms and, more importantly, why we continue to believe so strongly in them today. We talk about the natural arc of a three-week camp experience, from finding your footing in Week One, to settling fully into camp life in Week Two, to the growth,…
S2 · E1 · 22 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 16 min
S2:E1 | What is Camp Alleghany?
Welcome to Season 2 of 'Ghany Gatherings! If you've ever wondered what makes Camp Alleghany different, this is the perfect place to begin. In this season opener, Director Elizabeth Shreckhise is joined by Program Director Stephanie Albert and Office Manager Mary-Curtis Powell to answer one of the biggest questions we hear from prospective families: What is Camp Alleghany? Together, we explore the mission, philosophy, traditions, and values that have shaped Alleghany for more than 100 years. We talk about who thrives here, why some of our founding principles remain just as important today as…
S1 · E34 · 15 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 2 min
Ghany Gatherings Episode 34: One Family's Alleghany Journey
What happens when a family who never imagined themselves as "camp people" wins a Family Camp stay at an auction? For the Poe family, it changed everything. In this heartfelt conversation recorded during Family Camp, Dod, Katie, and their oldest daughter, Coleman, share how one unexpected auction prize introduced their family to Camp Alleghany and set them on a journey they never saw coming. What began as plans to attend Family Camp quickly changed when Coleman declared she wanted to be a "real camper." She attended Mini Camp that very summer, and the rest, as they say, is history. Together,…
S1 · E33 · 8 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 4 min
Ghany Gatherings Episode 33: Tent 15: Four Women. Twenty Years. One Friendship.
Long before they became the ladies of Tent 15, these four women were Camp Alleghany campers, counselors, and lifelong alumnae. Then, more than twenty years ago, they found themselves sharing Tent 15 during Family Camp. What began as a simple tent assignment quickly became an annual tradition and a friendship that has only deepened over the years. In this heartwarming conversation, they reflect on their individual Alleghany journeys, the lessons camp has carried into every stage of their lives, and why Family Camp continues to bring them back summer after summer. They also share the story…
S1 · E32 · 1 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 7 min
'Ghany Gatherings Episode 32: And We Keep Coming Back (or...The Redemption Arc)
Camp isn't always easy. In this candid and surprisingly funny conversation, five young Camp Alleghany alumnae share stories they've never told quite like this before. They reflect on moments when they questioned whether camp was still the right place for them. Some got into trouble. One was even let go as a counselor. Others struggled through difficult transitions, faced summers when close friends didn't return, or simply wondered if their time at Alleghany had come to an end. They jokingly refer to these stories as their "redemption arcs," but underneath the laughter is something much…
S1 · E31 · 25 Aug 2026 · 1 hr 5 min
Ghany Gatherings Episode 31: Two Head Counselors Reflect
This week, Elizabeth sits down with two remarkable Camp Alleghany Head Counselors, Lilly and Sammy G., for a conversation about leadership, growth, and one unforgettable summer. Together, they reflect on favorite memories, funny moments, and the challenges that shaped them throughout Summer 2026. They also share how they've grown as leaders, what they've learned about themselves, and the lessons they'll carry from camp into life beyond the Greenbrier River. Whether you're a current camp family, an alumna, or simply interested in how meaningful leadership develops, this conversation offers an…
S1 · E30 · 18 Aug 2026 · 1 hr 31 min
Ghany Gatherings Episode 30: Summer 2026 Wrap-Up: One Last Gathering
The campers have gone home, the tents are packed, the dining hall is quiet once again... and it's time for one last gathering. Join Elizabeth, Stephanie, Amy, and Mary-Curtis as they look back on an unforgettable Summer 2026 at Camp Alleghany. Together, they share favorite memories, funny moments, unexpected challenges, and the growth they experienced throughout the season. They also take you behind the scenes of what really happens after camp ends, from packing up an entire summer to beginning preparations for the next one. Whether you spent this summer at Alleghany or simply love hearing…
S1 · E29 · 11 Aug 2026 · 50 min
Ghany Gatherings Episode 29: Blue and Gray and Everything in Between
What does it really mean to be a Ghany Girl? Join this year's Blue/Gray Captains as they share their favorite camp traditions, what they've learned through leadership, the friendships that keep them coming back each summer, and why Camp Alleghany has become such a special part of their lives. Recorded on the last afternoon of the summer, just before the 2026 Blue/Gray winner was announced, this conversation captures all the excitement, anticipation, and camp spirit that make the final days of term so unforgettable. Blue/Gray [email protected]
S1 · E28 · 4 Aug 2026 · 1 hr 13 min
Ghany Gatherings Episode 28: Inside the LIT Experience
What is it really like to be an LIT at Camp Alleghany? Hear it straight from the source! Four of our incredible Leaders-in-Training join us to share their experiences in their own words. From the backpacking trip and lifeguard training to leadership lessons, lifelong friendships, and plenty of laughter, they talk candidly about what challenged them, what surprised them, and what they'll take home with them after six unforgettable weeks. If you're curious about the LIT program or wondering whether it's worth the leap, you won't want to miss this fun, heartfelt conversation.…
S1 · E27 · 28 Jul 2026 · 55 min
Ghany Gatherings Episode 27: Mid Summer Check-in: Two Counselors, Two Perspectives
We're halfway through the summer, so what better time to check in with two of our counselors? One is spending her very first summer at Camp Alleghany after traveling from England, while the other grew up as a camper before returning as a counselor. Together they share favorite moments, surprising lessons, the joy of Camper Council, and what it's really like to experience camp through a counselor's eyes. Whether you're curious about life on tent row or simply love hearing behind-the-scenes camp stories, this conversation is full of laughter, reflection, and the magic that makes Alleghany so…
S1 · E26 · 21 Jul 2026 · 1 hr 1 min
Ghany Gatherings Episode 26: Alleghany Moms of Greenbrier Boys
Four Alleghany moms (three of whom have only boys!) sit down for a heartfelt conversation about what it's been like watching their sons fall in love with Camp Greenbrier. From lifelong friendships and unforgettable traditions to resilience, independence, and the surprising emotional depth of the camp experience, we reflect on what it means to raise camp boys while spending our own summers creating camp magic for girls at Alleghany. Along the way, we share funny stories, favorite letters, touching memories, and the moments that made us realize camp had become part of who our sons are. While…
S1 · E25 · 14 Jul 2026 · 53 min
Ghany Gatherings Episode 25: The LIT Backpacking Trip
This week on Ghany Gatherings, we're taking you behind the scenes of one of the most transformative experiences in our Leaders-in-Training (LIT) program: the wilderness backpacking trip. Elizabeth sits down with 2026 Head of LIT Daisy Scott and Leadership Program Director Amy Wilson to talk about everything from the day-to-day adventure and challenges to the incredible growth they witnessed along the way. If you've ever wondered what really happens on the LIT backpacking trip, or why it's such an important part of developing future leaders at Alleghany, this fun, candid conversation is one…
S1 · E24 · 7 Jul 2026 · 48 min
Ghany Gatherings Episode 24: Behind the Scenes with Katie
A Day in the Life of Camp Alleghany's Operations Coordinator Have you ever wondered what happens behind the scenes to keep Camp Alleghany running each day? In this episode, Elizabeth sits down with Operations Coordinator Katie to talk about her camp journey, how she found herself in one of the most unique jobs at camp, and what a typical day actually looks like. From coordinating the Green Team and overseeing deliveries to troubleshooting plumbing, chasing away unwanted critters, monitoring the weather with our new Perry Weather station, "Bolt," and yes... occasionally putting on a bee suit,…
S1 · E23 · 30 Jun 2026 · 1 hr 8 min
Ghany Gatherings Episode 23: More Than Just Six Days - A Director's View & A Mom's Perspective
Six days may not seem like enough time to change a child, but at Alleghany, we know just how much can happen in less than a week. In this episode, Elizabeth sits down with Mini Camp Director Maggie Meyer and Office Manager (and Mini Camp mom!) Mary-Curtis Powell to reflect on an unforgettable week at camp. Together, they share favorite moments, funny stories (including our new Perry Weather station, "Bolt," making quite the debut!), and the incredible growth they witnessed in our youngest campers. Mary-Curtis also offers an honest parent's perspective, sharing the worries she had before…
S1 · E22 · 23 Jun 2026 · 1 hr 7 min
Ghany Gatherings Episode 22: Closing Day
Closing Day is almost here! In this episode, Elizabeth, Stephanie, and Mary-Curtis walk families through everything they need to know to make Closing Day go smoothly. From parking lot and pick-up logistics to bus rider procedures, what to bring (don't forget your photo ID!), and what to expect when you arrive, we'll help you feel prepared for the day ahead. We also spend some time talking about the emotional side of Closing Day. After days or weeks of independence, friendship, and camp routines, many campers experience a transition period as they return home. We discuss what that can look…
S1 · 18 Jun 2026 · 18 min
BONUS! Quick Opening Day Checklist
You're almost here! In this special bonus episode, Elizabeth is joined by Mary-Curtis and Laura for a quick Opening Day checklist designed for families on their way to camp. Think of this episode as a companion to our original Opening Day podcast—not a substitute. If you're looking for detailed explanations and a deeper dive into Opening Day logistics, we encourage you to listen to that episode as well. This one is simply a collection of last-minute reminders and helpful tips as you make your way to camp. We cover everything from luggage and forms to medications, lice screenings, parking lot…
S1 · E21 · 16 Jun 2026 · 34 min
Ghany Gatherings Episode 21: Meet Your 2026 Head Counselors!
Meet the incredible women leading camp this summer! In this special episode, Amy, Stephanie, and Elizabeth sit down with our 2026 Head Counselors to learn more about their camp journeys, the experiences that shaped them, and what they're most excited about for the summer ahead. From favorite camp memories and lessons learned to the moments and people who helped make them who they are today, you'll get an inside look at the leaders who help make Alleghany such a special place. We laughed, reflected, and even got a little sentimental as we talked about the people and experiences that make…
S1 · E20 · 9 Jun 2026 · 43 min
Ghany Gatherings Episode 20: Adventures in Week One!
The 2026 camp season is officially underway, and we thought it would be fun to pull back the curtain and give you a glimpse into life behind the scenes during our first week at Camp Alleghany! Join Elizabeth, Stephanie, Amy, and Mary-Curtis for a casual, laughter-filled conversation recorded together in the same room (a rare treat for us!). We share who is already here at camp, what we've been working on to prepare for campers, some unexpected challenges, a few funny mishaps, and plenty of stories from the first days of the summer. Whether you're a longtime Alleghany family or brand new to…
S1 · E19 · 2 Jun 2026 · 49 min
Ghany Gatherings Episode 19: The Colors of Alleghany
What do all the colors at Camp Alleghany mean? In this fun and informative episode, we take a closer look at the many colors that are woven throughout the Alleghany experience. From age groups and counselor color groups to Blue and Gray team colors, Blues & Whites, and some of the traditions that make camp so special, we're breaking down what it all means and why these traditions continue to matter year after year. We're also excited to introduce Amy, our 2026 Leadership Program Coordinator! Amy joins us to share a little about herself and the important role she will play in helping guide…
S1 · E18 · 26 May 2026 · 1 hr 4 min
Ghany Gatherings Episode 18: Opening Day
Opening Day is one of the most exciting days of the summer, but we know it can also bring a lot of questions, especially for families who are new to Alleghany. In this episode, Elizabeth, Stephanie, and Mary-Curtis walk through Opening Day step by step so families know exactly what to expect when they arrive at camp. From timing and check-in to luggage, goodbyes, forms, medications, and the flow of the day, we cover the details that help everything feel smoother and less overwhelming. Our goal is to help parents and campers arrive feeling prepared, confident, and excited for the start of a…
S1 · E17 · 19 May 2026 · 43 min
Ghany Gatherings Episode 17: Why Summer Camp?
This episode is a special one. A few weeks ago, you heard from my dear friends in the camp world on Ghany Gatherings (Episode 11). Now, I’m excited to share something new. The four of us have launched our own podcast, The Camp Mastermind Podcast, and I’m featuring our very first episode here: Why Summer Camp? In this conversation, we speak from a deep and meaningful place about why summer camp is so much more than just a fun experience. We talk about the role it plays in a child’s emotional growth, independence, and development, and why we believe it is more important now than ever. These…
S1 · E16 · 14 May 2026 · 1 hr 1 min
Ghany Gatherings Episode 16: Emotionally Preparing as a Parent
Sending your child to camp can bring up a lot of feelings, and not just for your camper. In this episode, Elizabeth is joined by Wellness Counselors Jameson and Angiemil for a thoughtful conversation about emotionally preparing as a parent. We talk through the emotions that can come with sending your child to camp, what may be underneath those feelings, and practical ways to prepare yourself for the separation. This episode is a helpful companion for any parent feeling excited, nervous, unsure, or all of the above as camp approaches.Parent [email protected]
S1 · E15 · 12 May 2026 · 53 min
Ghany Gatherings Episode 15: Our Favorite Things!
This one is just plain fun. In this episode, Elizabeth, Stephanie, and Mary-Curtis share their favorite things for camp. From footwear to trunks, sunscreen to camp-friendly cameras, and so much more, this is a light, entertaining conversation full of ideas you may not have thought of. If you’re looking for inspiration for this summer, or even for a birthday or holiday gift, you might just find it here. We especially recommend watching this one on our YouTube channel so you can see everything we’re talking about. All links included below! Many items are on this page of our website. Other…
S1 · E14 · 7 May 2026 · 1 hr 33 min
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…
S1 · E13 · 5 May 2026 · 1 hr 4 min
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…
S1 · 4 May 2026 · 1 hr 2 min
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 [email protected]@campalleghany.com
S1 · 30 Apr 2026 · 57 min
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 [email protected]@campalleghany.com
S1 · E12 · 28 Apr 2026 · 55 min
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…

About Ghany Gatherings

Ghany Gatherings is a English kids & family podcast from campalleghany. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: campalleghany
Language: English
Category: Kids & Family
New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 1 hr 2 min
Latest episode: 13 Oct 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1882365363

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