Michael Garcia (He/ Him/ His); Co-Owner/ author/ Podcast Host

Michael holds a Bachelor's Degree in Human Services from Springfield College (MA) and brings over three decades of experience in youth development. His expertise spans camping, after-school programs, teen initiatives, and aquatics-based programming. Throughout his career, Michael has successfully led a wide range of camps, from small city camps to large outdoor day camps and overnight programs.

An active volunteer with the American Camp Association (ACA), Michael serves as a visitor and instructor and has held leadership roles such as Upstate NY Standards Leader on the ACA Local Council of Leaders. He also served on the board of the New York State Camp Director’s Association (NYSCDA). Additionally, Michael is a certified Youth Mental Health First Aid Instructor through the National Council for Mental Wellbeing.

Outside of youth development, Michael dedicates his time as a volunteer Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and exterior firefighter with his local fire department.

Michael and Angie met working at the YMCA Pre-School together.

Email Michael Click HERE Michael’s Resume Click HERE

Michael’s LinkedIn Click HERE

Angelica Garcia (She/ Her/ Hers); Co-owner

Angelica holds a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Kennesaw State University and an associate's degree in Early Childhood Education. With over three decades of experience as an Early Childhood educator, Angelica has dedicated her career to nurturing and guiding children from as young as 3 months old through school age. Her extensive background in child development and education has allowed her to create meaningful learning experiences that promote cognitive, emotional, and social growth in young children. Angelica is passionate about fostering supportive, engaging environments where children can thrive and reach their fullest potential.

Email Angie Click HERE

Angelica’s LinkedIn Click HERE

Angie and Michael met working in YMCA Pre-School together.

Al Ferreira (He/ Him/ His); Podcast Co-host

For over 4 decades and 43 summers, I have been offering my skiils as a servant leader to my capacity as non-profit professional. This has enabled my ability to deliver a mission to young leaders in the outdoor educational and residential camp setting. I bring a unique perspective in having recruited, trained and mentored thousands of teens and young adults to realize their leadership potential. My passion to grow as a leader has brought me to a truly phenomenal leader, John C. Maxwell, who I believe shares the same core values and passion to help others by equipping others for success. During my career I have created progressive leadership development programs and conducted many organizational development experiences for youth, teens, college students, volunteer boards and staff members. It is my continuing life’s work and passion to create dynamic work and learning environments with the end result of providing lessons for now that produce passionate Leaders for Life!

Email Al Click HERE

Click HERE for Al’s website.

Bridgette Barbera-Byrne (SHE/ HER/ Hers); DIversity & Inclusion Instructor

Bridgette Barbera-Byrne, diversity and inclusion expert, has been navigating the LGBTQ+ community and the issues that go along with it all her life.  

With a career in youth development, Bridgette has spearheaded and pioneered many efforts to make progress within the LGBTQ+ community including developing her own diversity and inclusion training with her company -More Than..She believes that we can always be doing More Than we are to move the needle on important issues. 

Her goals include raising awareness, increasing knowledge, and ultimately teaching people how to embrace each others’ differences. She imagines a world where taking the time to talk about our differences will make a positive change towards inclusion for all. 

Email Bridgette Click HERE

Maxwell Garcia (He/ Him/ His); photographer/ Podcast editor

Maxwell Garcia graduated from SUNY Fredonia with a degree in Audio/Radio Production, where he gained hands-on experience in audio engineering, sound design, broadcasting, and media production. His studies equipped him with technical skills in studio recording, live sound mixing, and digital editing, as well as a deep understanding of radio programming and media storytelling. He is proficient in industry-standard software such as Pro Tools and Adobe Audition. Currently seeking new opportunities, Maxwell is eager to bring his creativity, technical expertise, and passion for audio production to dynamic media environments.

Click HERE for Maxwell’s Website

Click HERE for Maxwell’s LinkdeIn