In this interview, Phil Brown and Mike Martin explore the transformative power of experiential education, the importance of reflection and follow-up, and the future role of technology like AI in connecting and developing people.    The importance of reflection and follow-up in experiential learning Strategies for managing the unexpected in facilitation The role of AI in enhancing human connection and learning Stories of transformative moments in experiential education The concept of 'your fault' and ownership in group dynamics Learn more about Praxis Learning - https://praxislearning.com/ Contact the podcast - [email protected] Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org

In this inspiring interview, Andrew Alexander King shares his journey from Detroit to becoming a mountaineer, surfer, and advocate for diversity in outdoor education. Discover insights on experiential learning, embracing failure, and mentoring the next generation. Experiential learning cycle and reflection The role of failure in growth and resilience Diversity and inclusion in outdoor education Learn more about Andrew - https://www.andrewalexanderking.work/about Contact the podcast - [email protected] Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org

In this episode, Hutch Hutchinson, a senior lecturer at Boston University, shares his extensive experience and insights into the history and impact of outdoor and experiential education. He discusses the evolution of outdoor education from the 19th century to today, the philosophical differences in educational models, and practical advice for emerging professionals in the field.   History of outdoor education Philosophy of experiential learning Impact of outdoor education on student development Contact the podcast - [email protected] Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org

In this episode, we explore the powerful concept of 'sweeping the shed' from James Kerr's book 'Legacy,' emphasizing humility, leadership by example, and the importance of small acts in building strong teams and cultures.   The concept of 'sweeping the shed' from James Kerr's 'Legacy' Humility as a leadership trait and its impact The importance of small acts and leading by example Real-life examples of humility in sports and business Building a culture of service and accountability Contact the podcast - [email protected] Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org

In this interview, organizational development facilitator Mike Cardus shares insights on experiential learning, facilitation wisdom, and adapting activities to different contexts. Discover how to enhance your facilitation skills, innovate activities, and connect more deeply with groups across various environments.   Experiential learning and psychodynamics Facilitation wisdom and handling ambiguity Innovating and adapting activities for different contexts Learn more about Mike - https://mikecardus.com/ Contact the podcast - [email protected] Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org

In this episode, Jill Vialet, founder of Playworks, shares insights on the importance of play in childhood development, the science behind play, and practical activities to incorporate play into daily life. She discusses her journey, stories from her work, and the future of play in education and society. Learn more about Playworks - https://www.playworks.org/ Contact the podcast - [email protected] Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org

In this interview, Danny Bauer, aka The Ruckus Maker, shares his journey from student to educator, emphasizing the importance of disruption, joy, and authenticity in schools. Discover how making a ruckus can transform education by fostering impact, courage, and meaningful relationships. Learn more about Danny - https://betterleadersbetterschools.com/ Listen to Better Leaders, Better Schools podcast - https://betterleadersbetterschools.com/podcast/ Connect with Phil - [email protected] Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org

In this episode, Phil discusses the importance of proper equipment storage at challenge courses. He highlights common issues such as equipment being stored in damp areas, lack of organization, and staff using equipment for personal use. Phil provides steps to improve equipment storage, including organizing gear for easy inspection, discarding and replacing faulty equipment, establishing local operating procedures, securing equipment in a locked area, and implementing a no personal use policy. He also emphasizes the need for a designated challenge course manager and the importance of program accountability and participant experience.   Proper equipment storage is crucial for the safety and effectiveness of challenge courses. Organize gear to facilitate inspections and ensure all equipment is accounted for. Discard and replace any equipment that does not meet safety standards. Establish local operating procedures for storage, use, and inspection of equipment. Secure equipment in a locked area to prevent unauthorized access and protect it from moisture and vermin. Implement a no personal use policy to avoid liability and maintain equipment integrity. Designate a challenge course manager to oversee program accountability and ensure a positive participant experience. Roam Storage Cases - https://store.high5adventure.org/collections/equipment-storage/products/roam-adventure-co-rugged-casses High 5 Guide - https://store.high5adventure.org/collections/books-digital-resources/products/the-high-5-guide-challenge-course-operating-procedures-for-the-thinking-practitioner-2nd-edition Contact Phil; Email - [email protected] Instagram - @verticalplaypen Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org

Rebecca Courtney shares her journey of valuing influence, experimenting with playful activities, and redefining success in facilitation. In this episode we discuss; Rebecca's motivations for transitioning from AJ&Smart to solo consulting How her background in teaching influences her facilitation style The importance of play in adult learning and overcoming resistance Strategies for introducing playful exercises in serious corporate settings The role of reflection in reinforcing playful activities' value Creative ways to adapt when room setups or materials are not ideal The impact of pressure and time limits on creative spontaneity Tips for closing workshops effectively without vague final summaries Navigating the balance between influence and neutrality as a facilitator How to cultivate a facilitator flow state and trust your intuition Rebecca Courtney's Website & Toolkit Newsletter Signup Rebecca on LinkedIn Contact the podcast - [email protected] Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org  

In this insightful interview, Lisa Riegel shares her journey from education to neuroscience, emphasizing the importance of understanding brain science to transform educational systems. Discover practical strategies for creating engaging, relevant, and supportive learning environments that foster student and teacher well-being. Learn more about Lisa and her work - https://lisariegel.com/ Connect with the podcast - [email protected] Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org