Vertical Playpen

The Training team discuss; - What is a challenge course? - What's in a name? Challenge, high, ropes? - The history of challenge courses - Our memories of our 1st ever challenge course experiences.

Madeline Brooks (Executive Director - OnBelay) joins Phil to discuss; - Her introduction to the world of adventure education - How to create safe and trusting environments for those impacted by cancer - The work of OnBelay and how you are able to support that work Find out more about OnBelay - https://www.on-belay.org/ Donate - https://www.on-belay.org/donate/ Connect with Madeline - madeline@on-belay.org

Andrew Florence, the Director of Experiential Learning at Crossnore Communities for Children, dives into the nuances of trauma-informed facilitation. He shares insights on how adventure-based programs can foster healing and personal growth. The conversation includes lighthearted moments about quirky family traditions and the joy they bring. Andrew highlights the importance of finding one's authentic voice in education and the role of community in supporting facilitators. A rich mix of humor, nostalgia, and meaningful discussions makes this chat truly engaging.

In this episode, the Training team discuss; - Training and preparing your participants to belay - Your role during this process - Advice on ensuring you and your participants are ready to belay How to contact us: Phil Brown - pbrown@high5adventure.org OR @verticalplaypen on Instagram Chris Damboise - cdamboise@high5adventure.org Lisa Hunt - lhunt@high5adventure.org Hanne Bailey - hbailey@high5adventure.org Rich Keegan - rkeegan@high5adventure.org Join the Training Team!! - https://high5adventure.org/job/full-time-adventure-educator-trainer/

The Training Team gather to discuss; - What is Belaying? - What does the word mean? - What are the foundational principles of good belay? - The recommended method of belaying? - Trainer tips that help improve belayers techniques Reach out the training team for more information on how to belay. Instagram - @verticalplaypen Join the Training Team!! - https://high5adventure.org/job/full-time-adventure-educator-trainer/

Mark Suroviec (WorkPlay Solutions) joins Phil to discuss; - Finding joy in creating team experiences - The right time to try a new activity - Staying curious in our industry Learn more about Mark - workplaysolutions.com Listen to his podcast - WorkPlay Solutions Podcast Connections before Content - Virtual Workshop - Thursday March 10th - 3:30 - 5:00pm EST Register here - https://store.high5adventure.org/collections/virtual-workshops Coupon Code at Checkout - ConnectionsBOGO

Kirsten Locke (Koala Tree) joins Phil to discuss; - Being an Arborist and the supportive world of arboriculture - Living life adventurously and asking for help along the way - Protecting your body using mobility and strength training Learn more about Kirsten at her Instagram - @brave.roots Learn more about Koala Tree - koalatree.ca

Scott Catucci (Associate Director - Outdoor Education / Student Development at Syracuse University) joins Phil to discuss; - Volunteering for AEE - Experiential Learning through music - Esports and Video games relationship to experiential learning Learn more about Syracuse's Recreation programs - https://www.syracuse.edu/life/recreation/ Connect with Scott - sacatucc@syr.edu

Phil recently attempted to ski for the 1st time. In the process he reflected on 4 things that he noticed about being a new learner; - Having patience for the speed of how you learn - The more details shared the better - The effect the environment has on your learning - A word that should stay away from learning environments

In this episode we discuss; - The importance of having a staff training plan - In-house and professional training and in-house refresher training - Why having accurate job descriptions can help - Supervisor participation in trainings - Training documentation - Team development benefits