Vertical Playpen

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

High 5 Trivia is a quiz show about the challenge course industry. The host, Jamie Thibodeau, asks questions from different categories such as gear, facilitation, construction, history, and general knowledge. The participants compete to answer the questions correctly and earn points. The show covers topics like wooden utility poles, passive zip line braking systems, facilitation techniques, gear terminology, and challenge course elements.    Takeaways; High 5 Trivia is a quiz show about the challenge course industry The show covers various topics related to gear, facilitation, construction, history, and general knowledge Participants compete to answer questions correctly and earn points The show provides insights into the challenge course industry and promotes learning and knowledge sharing Submit your questions; Email - podcast@high5adventure.org Instagram - @verticalplaypen Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com  

This conversation explores the theme of leadership and the importance of building relationships in effective leadership. The discussion highlights examples of leadership from the movie Saving Private Ryan and the director of professional development (at the time the article was written) for the National Association of Independent Schools, Dave Mallory. The conversation also includes an exercise to reflect on positive and negative experiences with leaders and the impact of relationships in leadership.    Takeaways; Effective leadership is never without the attribute of building relationships. Leadership is about caring and forming connections with others. Positive leadership experiences leave a lasting impact and evoke feelings of respect, value, and happiness. Poor leadership can have negative effects and create a sense of discomfort or fear. Building relationships is a powerful tool in leadership and can create a safe and trusting environment. Understanding oneself and one's relationship with others is essential in effective leadership. High 5 Symposium - https://store.high5adventure.org/products/adventure-practitioners-symposium-1-day?utm_source=copyToPasteBoard&utm_medium=product-links&utm_content=web&_ga=2.244240269.92209463.1712521573-69781410.1683822041 Contact the podcast -  Email - podcast@high5adventure.org Instagram - @verticalplaypen Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

At the recent ACCT (Association for Challenge Course Technology) Conference in Oklahoma City, OK, Phil and Jamie had the pleasure of recording an episode with an in-person audience. The structure of the time was split between audience questions and a trivia show based on the Challenge Course industry. Play along and let us know how you did! Submit your questions -  Email - podcast@high5adventure.org Instagram - @verticalplaypen Learn more and register for the High 5 Symposium -  https://store.high5adventure.org/products/adventure-practitioners-symposium-1-day?utm_source=copyToPasteBoard&utm_medium=product-links&utm_content=web&_ga=2.7451954.1611139391.1712014415-69781410.1683822041 Learn more about Catchbox - catchbox.com Music and Sound Effects - epidemicsound.com