Vertical Playpen

Phil explores the challenges and solutions related to team building and team development activities. It delves into personal experiences, frustrations, and strategies for enjoying and improving the facilitation of such activities. The discussion covers the importance of finding enjoyable activities, program design, relaxation, and managing external pressures. Takeaways Finding activities that YOU enjoy is crucial for effective facilitation. Program design should consider energy flow and balance between activities. Relaxation and managing external pressures are essential for enjoying the facilitation process. Connect with Phil; email - podcast@high5adventure.org instagram - @verticalplaypen Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

In this episode, Phil discusses the concept of power in the context of challenge courses and ropes courses. He identifies six areas where facilitators may unintentionally take power away from participants and provides solutions to empower them. The areas include harnesses, knots, belaying, the challenge itself, support, and lowering. Phil emphasizes the importance of giving participants choice and control, ultimately honoring empowerment. Takeaways Facilitators may unintentionally take power away from participants in challenge courses and ropes courses. Empowering participants involves giving them choice and control in various aspects of the experience. Teaching participants how to put on their own harnesses, tie their own knots, and belay can enhance their sense of power and control. Contact the podcast; email - podcast@high5adventure.org instagram - @verticalplaypen Music and Sound Effects - epidemicsound.com

Hutch Hutchinson, a senior lecturer at the Questrom School of Business, shares his journey in experiential education and the historical context of outdoor education. He discusses the impact of industrial education, the role of associations like AEE, and the future of experiential education in a changing world. Takeaways; Experiential education has a rich historical context that predates the industrial education model and is rooted in the philosophy of student-centered learning. Associations like AEE provide a diverse and enriching platform for experiential educators to learn and grow, offering a wide range of perspectives and expertise. The future of education will require a focus on trauma-informed teaching, empathy, and personal connection, all of which are inherent in experiential education. Mentorship and networking are essential for emerging professionals in the field of experiential education, providing guidance and diverse perspectives for career development. Contact the podcast; email - podcast@high5adventure.org instagram - @verticalplaypen Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

In this conversation, Phil Brown and Andrew Jillings discuss their shared passion for adventure and experiential education. They delve into their personal experiences, the evolution of risk management, and the advice for emerging professionals in the field. The conversation also touches on the balance between experience and certifications in the industry. Phil Brown discusses the importance of experience, decision-making, and risk management in the field of experiential education. He emphasizes the value of diverse experiences and the ability to make quick, critical decisions. Phil also shares insights on the selection and training of student leaders for orientation trips, as well as the significance of repetition and variation in skill development. Takeaways: Passion for adventure and experiential education drives the work of professionals in the field. The evolution of risk management and the balance between minimizing negatives and maximizing positives. The importance of both experience and certifications in establishing legitimacy in the industry. Advice for emerging professionals to gain diverse experiences and demonstrate a commitment to the field. The value of diverse experiences in decision-making and risk management The importance of repetition and variation in skill development The significance of selecting and training student leaders for orientation trips Contact the podcast; email - podcast@high5adventure.org instagram - @verticalplaypen Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

This conversation explores the pitfalls of over-reliance on props and tools in facilitation, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing conversation and relationship-building. It delves into the need for time and depth in facilitation, the skills and goals of facilitation, and the challenges of the adventure education field. The conversation also addresses the need for a more mature and professional approach to facilitation, advocating for deeper, more meaningful conversations and relationships. Takeaways; The importance of prioritizing conversation and relationship-building over the over-reliance on props and tools in facilitation. The need for time and depth in facilitation, emphasizing the skills and goals of facilitation. Challenges faced in the adventure education field and the need for a more mature and professional approach to facilitation. Advocacy for deeper, more meaningful conversations and relationships in facilitation. Contact the podcast; email - podcast@high5adventure.org instagram - @verticalplaypen Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

In this episode, Phil Brown interviews Chad Littlefield, the Chief Experience Officer of We and Me Inc. They start with a fun segment of random questions before diving into Chad's journey in experiential adventure education. Chad shares his first experience in experiential education and how it influenced his career path. He also discusses the importance of curiosity and connection in his work. Chad explains his role as the Chief Experience Officer and how WeConnect cards are designed to make connection easy for people. He offers advice on using the cards effectively, emphasizing the power of choice and incorporating content in activities. In this conversation, Phil Brown and Chad Littlefield discuss the importance of listening and asking powerful questions in creating meaningful connections. They explore different frameworks and techniques for effective communication, including the use of WeConnect cards and the concept of intention and openness. They also discuss the need for adaptation and innovation in the field of experiential education, especially in the context of remote work and virtual connections. Takeaways; Experiential adventure education can have a profound impact on personal and professional development. Following curiosity can lead to finding one's passion and purpose. Connection is essential for healing, growth, and success in various contexts. WeConnect cards are designed to make connection easy and can be used by facilitators and non-facilitators alike. Giving people choice in answering questions can lead to deeper and more authentic conversations. Incorporating content and weaving it into activities can enhance the effectiveness of using WeConnect cards. Listening to understand is more effective than listening to win. Being clear about your intention and sharing it with others can create a foundation for trust and collaboration. Entering a conversation with an open mind and being willing to be changed by the other person can lead to deeper connections. Asking open-ended questions, particularly those starting with 'how' or 'what', can foster curiosity and meaningful dialogue. In the field of experiential education, there is a need for adaptation and innovation to create impactful experiences. Simplifying tools and focusing on purpose can enhance the effectiveness of facilitation. Learn more about Chad - https://weand.me/ Check out Chad's Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@chad.littlefield Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com Contact the podcast; Email - podcast@high5adventure.org Instagram - @verticalplaypen

Harv discusses his journey into tree climbing and the emotional and physical benefits it provides. He explains the accessibility of tree climbing and the equipment used. The conversation also touches on the overlap between tree climbing and challenge courses, emphasizing the importance of connecting with nature and the environment. Harv shares information about the Global Organization of Tree Climbers and where to find more information about tree climbing. Takeaways Tree climbing provides a sense of perspective, adventure, and discovery, and offers a reset in the universe. Tree climbing is accessible to people of various physical abilities and does not require extensive physical fitness. There is an overlap between tree climbing and challenge courses in terms of connecting with nature, teaching about the environment, and fostering empathy and support for nature. Knowing the species of trees and understanding their importance in ecosystems can enhance the tree climbing experience and build a constituency for environmental protection. The Global Organization of Tree Climbers (GOTC) provides guidelines, training, and a network of instructors and facilitators for safe tree climbing. Tree climbing is a fun and social activity that enhances relationships and provides a shared context for conversations. https://www.gotreeclimbing.org/ contact the podcast - email - podcast@high5adventure.org instagram - @verticalplaypen Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

Adam Ames, a visual artist, shares his experience attending a workshop at High 5 and how it transformed his approach to art and teaching. He discusses the initial skepticism he had, the moments of reflection and realization, and the impact of experiential education on his life. The conversation also touches on the creation of a sculpture that represents the group and the philosophy of adventure and experiential education. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of embracing new experiences, the value of reflection, and the power of teamwork. Takeaways Experiential education can have a profound impact on one's approach to art, teaching, and life in general. Reflection and moments of realization are key components of the experiential education process. The creation of a sculpture that represents a group can be a powerful way to convey the philosophy of adventure and experiential education. Embracing new experiences and being open to different perspectives can lead to personal growth and transformation. Teamwork and collaboration are essential in both art and experiential education. https://www.typea.us/ Contact the podcast - email - podcast@high5adventure.org instagram - @verticalplaypen music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

Tre Gamage shares his journey into social-emotional learning (SEL) and the importance of SEL in education. He discusses the need for SEL programs for both students and adults, bridging the gap between generations, and the impact of every decision in life. He emphasizes that now is the time for SEL to shine, especially in the current climate of COVID-19 and discussions around equity. Tre provides resources for further learning and skill-building in SEL. Takeaways; SEL is essential in education and should be a part of school plans SEL programs should be implemented for both students and adults Bridging the gap between generations is crucial for understanding and connection Every decision in life matters and contributes to one's legacy Now is the time for SEL to shine, especially in the current climate Resources for further learning and skill-building in SEL are available Connect with Tre - https://www.tregammage.com/ Contact the podcast - email - podcast@high5adventure.org instagram - @verticalplaypen music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

In this conversation, Phil Brown interviews Jim Grout and Jen Ottinger about their roles at High 5 Adventure Learning Center and the past, present, and future of the organization. Jen shares how she was drawn to High 5 and the adventure education field, while Jim reflects on the early days of High 5 and the growth of the organization. They discuss their complementary leadership styles and the importance of trust and collaboration. They also talk about the future of High 5, including exploring the concept of social enterprise, promoting career building in the industry, and supporting professional development through a scholarship fund. Takeaways; Jen was drawn to High 5 because of the opportunity to work with an amazing group of people and the excitement and passion she saw in the organization and its customers. Jim and Jen have complementary leadership styles, with Jim being the visionary and Jen being the integrator, which has been a successful partnership for High 5. Trust and collaboration are key elements of their leadership approach, and they prioritize putting people first and supporting the team. The future of High 5 includes exploring the concept of social enterprise, promoting career building in the adventure education industry, and supporting professional development through a scholarship fund. high5adventure.org Contact the podcast - email - podcast@high5adventure.org instagram - @verticalplaypen music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com