
Vertical Playpen
Want to learn more about Adventure and Experiential Education? Then this podcast is for you!
Listeners of this podcast will get;
- Adventure Programming Theory
- Facilitation Tips
- Activity Ideas
- Industry Career Advice
- Interviews from Industry Professionals
High 5 Adventure Learning Center is a non-profit educational organization dedicated to helping individuals, teams, schools, communities and businesses improve the way they live, learn and work together. Connect with us at high5adventure.org
Latest episodes

Oct 19, 2021 • 38min
What We Say and How We Say It Matters | Mike Anderson
Anne-Louise guest hosts an interview with Ryan McCormick and Mike Anderson as they discuss; - The importance of what we say and how it matters in the classroom. - Communication skills Find more about Mike: www.leadinggreatlearning.com

Oct 12, 2021 • 35min
Facilitating Problem Solving Activities
This episode is an invitation to listen in on a conversation between Lisa Hunt (Manager of Team Development) and Ryan McCormick (Edge of Leadership Director) as they discuss; - Problem Solving - Activity Selection - Advice for educators on how to adapt activities

Oct 5, 2021 • 33min
100th Episode!
We made it! Another milestone moment for the podcast! 100 episodes! In this special 100th episode Phil takes us on a journey recalling past moments of the podcast that stand out to him. These include; Examples of recording in the car Inspirational challenge course and facilitation stories A sample of jokes that keep the episodes fun The signature sign-off “Thanks for listening…” from Ella, Phil’s daughter Thanks to all of the community of listeners for listening and guests who have so generously shared!

Sep 28, 2021 • 26min
Social Emotional Learning for Educators | Tre Gammage
Tre Gammage joins Phil to discuss; - His work with SEL and how he started in the education - Why teaching educators about SEL is so important tregammage.com seleducators.com

Sep 21, 2021 • 35min
Why Play Works | Jill Vialet
Jill Vialet (Founder of Playworks) joins Phil to discuss her new book; Why Play Works - Big Changes Start Small. In this conversation Jill shares; - Her introduction to play and how she forged a career in this industry - A story about a colleague interacting with a school that didn't have recess - How the research supports the importance of play - The activity that she often ends her programs with. Find out more about Playworks - playworks.org Find out more about Jill - jillvialet.com

Sep 14, 2021 • 26min
Children's Books about Emotions | Tom Percival
Tom Percival (author of Ruby Finds a Worry) joins Phil to discuss; - Writing children's books that focus on emotions - What inspired him to write them - The importance of role modeling vulnerability. Find more about Tom - tom-percival.com

Sep 7, 2021 • 41min
Facilitation Tips | Mark Flynn
Mark Flynn (formally of UCONN and the Four Arrows Challenge Course Program) joins Phil to discuss: - His unusual entry into the industry - How important and transferable facilitation skills are for students - Facilitation Tools vs Props - How language and context matters in our industry Contact Mark - mflynn86@gmail.com

Aug 31, 2021 • 29min
Listener Questions - Adapt Activities, New Jobs and Belay Devices
In this episode Phil answers some listener questions; - When do you NOT do warm up or icebreaker activities? - Is there a game you've recently revived and love to play? - Advice and things we wish we would have known before starting a new job in the industry. - ATC vs GRIGRI Submit any questions you may have to podcast@high5adventure.org or DM on instagram @verticalplaypen

Aug 24, 2021 • 34min
Adventureworks | Brian Lisson
Brian (President and Founder of Adventureworks, and also the 2021 ACCT Critical Link Award Recipient), joins Phil to share; - His introduction to the world of Adventure Programming - His perspective on the growth of the industry and changes coming to ACCT - Advice to emerging professionals in the industy Find more at - adventureworks.org

Aug 17, 2021 • 30min
Audio-only Facilitation | Michael Ronen and Kyle Kaminsky
Michael Ronen and Kyle Kaminsky, co-founders of the Social Play Club, are experts in crafting immersive social experiences. They dive into the art of audio-only facilitation, sharing tips on keeping participants engaged in visual-less environments. Their favorite activities promote connection and creativity, encouraging adults to rediscover their playful side. They explore the significance of names and the cultural stories behind them, emphasizing inclusivity and empathy through play in diverse communities. Tune in for insights on transforming social interactions!