
PRODIGY INNOVATOR CAMP
An intensive storytelling camp for teen entrepreneurs
Spring 2025
Building on a Legacy of Empowering Young Change-Makers
For over 14 years, the Prodigy Project has been on a mission to identify and nurture the world’s most talented teenage storytellers, artists, and leaders, building them up as future change-makers. Now, Prodigy Camp is expanding its reach to support a new generation of change-makers through the launch of Prodigy Innovator Camp.
How does your story drive you to make a difference in today's world? At the heart of innovation and entrepreneurship is the ability to tell a powerful story. The Prodigy Innovator Camp is first and foremost a storytelling camp, designed to help teen entrepreneurs uncover their personal narratives and use them to inspire action and change. By discovering who they are and what drives them, campers will learn how to communicate their vision in a way that moves people and makes an impact.
Who should apply? There are only 12 spots available in the inaugural camp, and a cost of $2,450. But we are happy to announce several competitive scholarships. There is an application plus an interview for the finalists. If this intrigues you and you have a vision to make a positive impact in the world, we encourage you to apply.
Over our 14-year history, we've found that some of our most successful students didn't realize their own potential before coming to camp. Do not let the word “Prodigy” intimidate you. No matter what sort of entrepreneurial experience (or lack thereof!) you may have, we want to see where your head and heart are at. You have nothing to lose by applying, so give it a shot! One vital tip: the more personal, honest, and vulnerable you are in your application, the better your chances. This program is designed to cultivate entrepreneurs with strong character.
Meet some of our early scholarship winners who will be attending the spring camp!
Application Details
We will consider applications on a rolling basis, so it is in your best interest to apply early. Early applicants will get priority for scholarships, with more limited scholarships available in the final round. To apply, visit https://www.prodigycamp.org/innovator-application.
Key Deadlines:
Early Deadline: January 31, 2025
Mid Deadline: February 28, 2025
Rolling Final Deadline: Limited scholarships available on a rolling basis from March until final selections are made. Please apply early for the best chances at a scholarship and a slot at this incredible camp experience!
Don’t wait—apply early to secure your spot and scholarship opportunities!
What Makes This Camp Unique?
Many camps teach business skills. But at the Prodigy Innovator Camp, we begin where others don’t—by helping you discover who you are, what has shaped you, and how your story can be a force for change. You’ll learn how to harness your personal narrative to communicate your vision with authenticity and impact.
You’ll be paired with a mentor who will guide you through refining your business proposal and shaping it into a powerful story. Over five days, you’ll receive feedback from peers and experts, building a supportive community of like-minded creators. Here’s the key: the best entrepreneurs don’t just have great ideas—they have compelling stories that move people to act.
Program Highlights:
Self-discovery and storytelling: Begin with an introduction to your own story and values through reflective sessions and campfire discussions.
Creative guidance from global experts: Learn techniques from leading entrepreneurs and storytellers in film and more.
Collaborative project building: Present your ideas, receive feedback, and work alongside fellow entrepreneurs to elevate each other's visions.
Filmmaking your story: Translate your personal narrative into a visual story, capturing your vision on camera.
The Prodigy Project, which has mentored Grammy-winning artists and award-winning filmmakers is bringing together top leaders to help you make a real impact. You’ll get hands-on coaching from Fortune 500 CEOs, Top 40 YouTubers, award-winning filmmakers, and more.
Where is it? The camp is located one hour out of Las Vegas in the high desert (7000 ft).
When is it: Friday, May 30 - Tuesday, June 3, 2025
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Listed Alphabetically
Scilla Andreen
CEO and co-founder of IndieFlix, an award-winning filmmaker, and a changemaker in using film as a catalyst for social impact.Celeste Burgoyne
Celeste Burgoyne is the President of Lululemon and a dynamic leader known for her visionary approach to retail and deep commitment to empowering women in business.Coach Dar
Darleen Santore, known as "Coach Dar," is a best-selling author, speaker, and former Phoenix Suns Mental Skills Coach whose journey through multiple strokes ignited her mission to help others unlock their inner greatness. As a personal story mentor and occupational therapist, she empowers people to thrive through adversity with purpose and resilience.Frank D’Souza
Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Recognize, Former CEO of Cognizant, Fortune Business Person of the Year, and Philanthropist.Sue Dunnett
Susan Dunnett is Professor and Personal Chair of Consumer Culture and Society at the University of Edinburgh Business School, specializing in branding, consumer vulnerability, and healthcare consumerism. Her research explores how branding intersects with identity and social support, particularly in contexts of illness and stigma.Warren Etheredge
Award-winning filmmaker, author, and founder of The Warren Report. Host of the critically acclaimed series The High Bar, Warren is a master storyteller and mentor, known for his ability to unlock creativity and elevate narratives.Nathan Gamble
Actor in The Dark Knight, Babel, A Dolphin Tale (1 & 2), and Marley & Me. Nathan is also a talented writer, director, and acting coach with a passion for guiding young creatives.Gerald Gangaram
Retired U.S. Army Major and West Point graduate. A highly decorated leader and former Apache helicopter pilot with extensive missions in Afghanistan, Gerald overcame significant adversity to become a respected expert in leadership and resilience.Doug Holladay
Former U.S. Special Ambassador and Georgetown University professor. Doug specializes in business ethics and leadership, inspiring the next generation of changemakers.Peter Horton
Emmy-nominated Director, Producer, and Writer; Actor (notable for Thirtysomething, Grey’s Anatomy, and The Cure).Susan Lacy
Creator and former executive producer of PBS’s American Masters and documentary filmmaker for HBO. An acclaimed filmmaker, Susan has directed documentaries on icons like Steven Spielberg, Billy Joel, and Jane Fonda.Angelique LeDoux
CEO and strategist for Seattle-based storytelling venture StoryQ. Former writer and photo editor at TIME Magazine, founder of Jade’s ToyBox and the youth talent development nonprofit PALNYC. Managing editor at the UHNW Institute and NYC-based angel investor specializing in early-stage impact investing.Max Losee
CEO of VOAST, Director of ProdigyProject, and Principal at StoryQ.Christian Loubek
Director, Filmmaker, and Storyteller known for his creative approach to visual storytelling across various media.Paige MacLean
Paige MacLean is a lecturer at Yale School of Management and philanthropic advisor, specializing in strategic, high-impact giving with over 25 years of experience in nonprofit leadership.Tania Marino
Named Innovator of the Year for her groundbreaking work addressing hunger solutions in New Hampshire. Tania is a passionate advocate for systemic change in food security.Keiron McCammon
Keiron McCammon is a seasoned tech entrepreneur and product strategist who has co-founded and led multiple successful startups to exit in the internet, mobile, and e-commerce sectors.Catherine McCord
A multi-award-winning filmmaker known for her innovative storytelling and captivating visual style.Lord Neil Mendoza
Provost of Oriel College, Oxford University, and a Commissioner for Cultural Recovery and Renewal. A seasoned entrepreneur across film, design, marketing, and technology sectors, Neil bridges academia and industry innovation.Charles Meyers
Executive Chairman of Equinix, a leading $10 billion technology company.Brian McDonald
Acclaimed author, filmmaker, and storytelling instructor at Pixar. Brian's storytelling principles have shaped some of the most beloved stories in modern cinema.Christopher McQuarrie
Academy Award-winning writer and director, celebrated for The Usual Suspects, the Mission: Impossible series, and Jack Reacher. Chris brings invaluable expertise in crafting compelling stories for the screen.Chris Millar
Chris Millar is a New Zealand-born tech entrepreneur specializing in international security systems and monetary policy. With deep expertise in global finance and cutting-edge technology, he develops innovative solutions at the intersection of security and economics.Tash Moffitt
Tasha Moffitt always believed that small, contagious acts of generosity can transform the world for the better, echoing Edward Lorenz’s “Butterfly Effect” theory—that even the softest flutter can set off a powerful chain reaction. Through her work as an artist, philanthropist, and founder of Butterfly Effect: Be the Change, she inspires global acts of micro-philanthropy into meaningful change.Sam Nelson
Harvard lecturer, software sales leader, and influencer. Sam combines his expertise in technology and communication to empower aspiring entrepreneurs.Sheryl Palmer
Chairman and CEO of Taylor Morrison, a leading $10 billion homebuilding company. Sheryl is a visionary leader dedicated to fostering sustainable and inclusive communities.Andy Paterson
Award-winning producer and writer of films including Girl with a Pearl Earring, Jackie and Hilary, The Railway Man, and Restoration. Andy's expertise lies in creating films that resonate deeply with audiences.Dave Rolfe
Dave Rolfe is a renowned advertising executive who served as President of Production at BBDO, the world’s largest advertising agency. With a storied career spanning decades, he has been instrumental in shaping groundbreaking campaigns and elevating the role of production in modern marketing.Jim Salters
Visionary, philanthropist, and serial for-profit and non-profit entrepreneur, including a 7-figure exit to a public company. Songwriter, pilot, CEO and youth sports coach.
Jason Smith
Jason Smith is a five-time successful entrepreneur and the Founder/CEO of Klue, with deep expertise in app development and a current focus on AI. He’s raised over $100 million, planted 100,000 trees, traveled the world with his family, and once went cage diving with alligators.
Hugo Spowers
Hugo Spowers MBE is a British entrepreneur-engineer who co-ordinated the development of the Morgan LIFEcar sports car project that was launched at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2008, and the Riversimple Urban Car.Rick Stevenson
Founder of StoryQ, the 5000 Days Project, and Prodigy Camp. With 12 feature films, 100 hours of television, and 500+ shorts to his name, Rick is a masterful storyteller, author, and mentor.Dune Thorne
Partner at Brown Advisory and expert family wealth advisor. A dedicated philanthropist, Dune is committed to empowering young leaders through financial literacy and social responsibility.Kari Tilman
Editor-in-Chief of Special Sources Magazine, Founder of Project Sunshine, Consultant, and Philanthropist.
Deron Triff
Deron Triff is the co-founder of WaitWhat, the media company behind influential podcasts like Masters of Scale and Meditative Story. A former TED executive, he has built a career at the intersection of storytelling, innovation, and transformative ideas.Bill Way
Oscar-nominated Producer & CEO of Fit Via Vi Films. Philanthropist.Mary Way
Executive Director Emeritus of Southwest Shakespeare Co.; Founder of Fit Via Vi Films; Philanthropist.Craig Weatherup
Former CEO of Pepsi-Cola and renowned business leader. Craig brings decades of experience in corporate leadership, branding, and operational excellence.Summer Wilson
Technical designer, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Kit and Ace and Ride Cycle Club. As the founding lead designer at Lululemon Athletica, Summer helped shape iconic products like the Groove Pant and logo hoodie, bringing creativity and innovation to every endeavor.Christine Wise
Branding and marketing strategist and professor at the University of Oregon School of Journalism and Communication. Christine helps organizations tell their stories with clarity and impact.Mystery Mentor
A digital pioneer whose creative work has garnered billions of views and tens of millions of subscribers on YouTube, inspiring audiences worldwide through innovative storytelling.
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DAY ONE
Campers arrive
Opening: Community Building & Ice-breakers.
Campers settle into their cabins
Dinner
Watch 5,000 Days films
Campfire
DAY TWO
Cold Plunge (optional)
Breakfast
Workshop: Storytelling for Impact. Prodigy Innovators will explore how storytelling can elevate ideas, connect with audiences, and inspire change. Through hands-on activities, teens will learn to craft authentic narratives that reflect their values, purpose, and vision for a better world—turning personal passion into powerful impact.
Lunch
Hike
Super Mentor Session: Anonymous YouTuber to discuss his journey and advice for young entrepreneurs
Speed Networking: Campers and mentors engage in a fast-paced session designed to spark quick, meaningful connections and exchange ideas in a high-energy environment.
Film Mentor Meet-Up: Film mentors and campers come together to spark connections and align on creative goals for the days ahead. It’s a chance to share ideas, set intentions, and build the trust that fuels powerful storytelling and bold innovation.
Dinner
Non-talent Show (& Tell)
Campfire
DAY THREE
Cold Plunge
Breakfast
Pitch Session Workshop Campers will each present their entrepreneurial ideas with the group.
Breakout Session: Deep Dive into Your Story
Identify the Problem to Solve
Why You?
Crafting A Story-Based Pitch
Break & Solo Work
Refined Elevator Pitches with Feedback
Dinner
Capture the Flag:
Campfire
DAY FOUR
Chi Gong
Breakfast
Filming Pitch Sessions: This day is all about capturing the magic. Campers will present their refined pitches on camera, professionally filmed so they leave camp with a powerful, polished artifact of their journey. Whether for future investors, school applications, or personal reflection, this is a chance to showcase their vision with confidence and clarity on film.
Super Mentor Session: Turning Ideas into Impactful Campaigns.
Dinner
Super Mentor Session with Coach Dar: The Mental Game of Making a Difference
Campfire
DAY FIVE
Breakfasat
Final Presentations: Participants will share their finished pitches and discuss with the group in a concluding presentation.
Lunch
Farewells & group photos
Campers depart with new perspectives and friendships!
You have nothing to lose, and everything to gain by applying to this unique opportunity!
WHEN
Friday, May 30 - Tuesday, June 3, 2025
Dates don’t work? Email us.
WHERE
One hour outside of Las Vegas
COST
$2,450 with several full & partial scholarships available

Let’s bring a little soul to sin city!
We’re thrilled to introduce PRODIGY INNOVATOR CAMP outside of Las Vegas in May 2025. Stay tuned for updates and more. Questions? Reach out.