Coding Campfires — Unplugged Adventures at Rails Camp West with Bobbilee Hartman

On this episode of "Ruby for All," hosts Andrew and Julie catch up with Julie returning after a bout of strep throat, and then share their excitement about having guest Bobbilee Hartman, the founder of Rails Camp West USA, joining them.  Bobbilee discusses the origins of Rails Camp, its unique unplugged experience, and the variety of activities attendees can engage in, from coding retreats to outdoor adventures like hiking zip-lining, and kayaking.  She also shares the logistics of organizing such an event, the sense of community it fosters among tech professionals, and how it differentiates from traditional conferences by offering a more personalized, inclusive, and memorable experience. The episode also touches on the challenges and joys of planning such an event, future locations, and the benefits of sponsoring, Press download to hear more! 

[00:00:39] Bobbilee explains her history with tech community events and Rails community, mentioning her shift to developer relations, the start of Rails Camp, and her personal interests.

[00:01:27] Andrew expresses his long-standing interest in Rail camp since college, and Bobbilee details the Rails Camp US experience. 

[00:08:01] Bobbilee talks about the evolution of Rails Camp, its sponsorship, and the organization, including the scholarship program, location changes, food arrangements, and personal outreach for ticket sales and promoting the event. 

[00:13:19] Andrew inquires about the unique benefits of Rails Camp’s style of conference. Bobbilee discusses the small size of Rails Camp, how it caters to different communication styles, and facilitates community through organic interactions rather than traditional networking.  

[00:15:35] Addressing Julie’s concerns about attending unfamiliar events, Bobbilee emphasizes that most attendees come alone, and the event’s structure in small groups makes it welcoming for newcomers. She mentions various options for lodging and activities, accommodating different comfort levels and financial situations. 

[00:17:56] Bobbilee explains the intense planning involved in Rails Camp, finding new venues each year, working with new partners, and sourcing local items for goodie bags. 

[00:19:55] Bobbilee shares her personal rewards from organizing Rails Camp, such as staying connected with the tech community, helping sponsors, and maintaining relationships as life becomes busier. 

[00:22:17] Andrew talks about his own experiences with big conferences and appreciates the small group activities and inclusiveness at Rails Camp. Bobbilee explains how meals and activities are organized to ensure inclusivity and engagement, and she details her vigilance in ensuring all participants feel included. 

[00:24:20] We learn that Rails Camp is being held in Cascade, Idaho this year. The venue is a top-rated summer camp with numerous activities, located on a private lake, and Bobbilee expresses a desire to include whitewater rafting as an activity and is seeking a sponsor if anyone is interested. 

[00:27:13] Julie is curious about the venue selection process, and Bobbilee explains that she uses a combination of her saved lists, summer camp directories, and Google Maps to ensure venues are in suitable locations. 

[00:31:46] Bobbilee leaves listeners with the idea that Rails Camp is a simple, all-inclusive experience for those seeking an alternative to big conferences, emphasizing easy logistics and a variety of activities available. 

[00:33:26] The conversation wraps up with Bobbilee discussing sponsorship opportunities with various benefits attached to different levels of support. 

Panelists:

Andrew Mason

Julie J.

Guest:

Bobbilee Hartman