High 5 Adventure - The Podcast

A nightmare when travelling is losing your bags, and then nightmare is intensified when you rely on what is in those bags to do you job. Phil and Lisa share their experience of a recent facilitation program in Europe where their bag of props did not arrive. They quickly pivoted and adapted their program to work with the resources they had. In this conversation, Chris Ortiz, Lisa, and Phil discuss the elements of planning and co-facilitation that contributed to the success of a program despite facing setbacks. They emphasize the importance of understanding the goals and themes of activities, rather than just focusing on the activities themselves. They also highlight the value of radical acceptance and trust in co-facilitation, allowing each facilitator to bring their own style and ideas to the program. The conversation touches on the significance of having a process for planning and preparation, as well as the benefits of incorporating novel and unique aspects into a program. Overall, the conversation highli

In this conversation, Phil and Angus Firth (Rapid Teams) discuss team building and team development in the context of outdoor education and experiential learning. They explore the challenges of blurring the line between fun, leadership, social events, and professional development. Angus shares his experience with designing and facilitating their Amazing Race event, which combines project adventure games with the structure of the TV show. They also discuss the need for the industry to be more legitimate and the importance of long-term initiatives and planning. Blurring the line between fun, leadership, social events, and professional development is a challenge in team building and team development. The Amazing Race event can be designed to include project adventure games and challenges that foster collaboration, strategy, and problem-solving. Long-term initiatives and planning are essential for making a lasting impact in team development. The industry needs to focus on being more legitimate and avoid t

In this episode, Phil, Sam, Lisa, Chris, and Anthony play a game called Wavelength. Each player takes turns as the guesser and asks the others to name something in a category that corresponds to a number on a scale. The players try to be on the same wavelength and guess the number correctly.  Wavelength is a fun game that challenges players to think like each other and be on the same wavelength. The game prompts interesting discussions and reveals different perspectives on various topics. Icebreaker questions can be tricky to come up with, as they can be either too easy or too difficult. Knowing each other well and understanding each other's preferences and thought processes can help in playing the game. The game fosters a sense of camaraderie and teamwork as players try to guess the correct number. Wavelength is a fun game that involves rating various topics on a scale of 1 to 20. Giving detailed answers in the game can lead to more engaging conversations. The hosts and guests have different opini

What is Adventure Education? In this episode Phil discusses the following;   Adventure education promotes learning through adventure-centered experiences. Adventure education can include a wide variety of activities, both outdoor and indoor. Adventure education is an active process that requires active engagement from learners and instructors. Adventure education can involve emotional and social risks. The outcomes of adventure education programs include leadership development, improved self-concept, academic growth, enhanced personality traits, improved interpersonal skills, and increased adventuresomeness. Program characteristics that contribute to these outcomes include the physical environment, activities, processing, the group, instructors, and the participants. Connect with Phil; Email - podcast@high5adventure.org Instagram - @verticalplaypen Music and soundeffects - epidemicsound.com  

In this conversation, Phil interviews Brian Lisson about his journey in the adventure education industry. They discuss various topics, including Brian's introduction to adventure education, the value of adventure education beyond the activities, the growth and future of the industry, and advice for emerging professionals. They also touch on the challenges of commercialization and the importance of credentialing and education in the field. Takeaways;   Be good at something and become irreplaceable in that area to increase job opportunities. Take advantage of opportunities to learn from others and build connections in the industry. The industry has seen growth, but there is a need for more focus on education and learning. The commercialization of adventure activities can make it challenging to communicate the unique experiences and outcomes of adventure education. Credentialing and standards are important for the industry's future, along with better education and learning opportunities. Adventure e

This episode was recorded live in front of attendees from the BOOST (Best out of School Time) Conference in Palm Springs California in 2024.   The conversation focuses on emotions and feelings, and the importance of having conversations about them. Phil introduces emotions cards and encouraged participants to choose an emotion or feeling that resonated with them. Participants then discussed their chosen word with a partner. Phil explains the difference between emotions and feelings, emphasizing that emotions are uncontrollable and common, while feelings are subjective and interpretive. Phil also introduced the mood meter, a tool for classifying emotions and feelings based on pleasantness and energy. Participants placed their chosen words on the mood meter grid, leading to discussions about the placement and subjective nature of emotions and feelings. Emotions and feelings are important topics to discuss and understand. Emotions are uncontrollable and common, while feelings are subjective and interpre

Phil discusses various acronyms used in the industry, particularly in relation to safety standards and regulations. He goes through 15 acronyms and explains their meanings and significance. The acronyms covered include AHJ, ANSI, ASTM, ISO, ACCT, ICE, PRCA, CWA, AEE, OSHA, UIAA, CE, NFPA, ERCA, EN, and kN.     Takeaways There are numerous acronyms used in the industry, particularly in relation to safety standards and regulations. Understanding these acronyms is important for ensuring compliance and safety in the workplace. Some of the key acronyms discussed include AHJ, ANSI, ASTM, ISO, ACCT, ICE, PRCA, CWA, AEE, OSHA, UIAA, CE, NFPA, ERCA, EN, and kilonewtons. AHJ refers to authority having jurisdiction, which are entities responsible for enforcing building codes and regulations. ANSI is the American National Standards Institute, which oversees the development and use of standards and guidelines. ASTM is the American Society for Testing and Materials, which develops and publishes voluntary con

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.     Takeaways 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 lock

The conversation explores the importance of relationships and adapting to individual needs as a facilitator. The speaker shares their experience working with diverse populations and emphasizes the role of relationships in connecting with participants and creating meaningful outcomes. They discuss the challenge of teaching the importance of relationships and share strategies for building trust and rapport with groups. The conversation also touches on the concept of buy-in and the need to present the value and purpose of activities to participants. The speaker highlights the importance of vulnerability and feedback in facilitating group dynamics and emphasizes the need to adjust facilitation goals based on the needs of the group.     Takeaways Building relationships is crucial in connecting with participants and adapting facilitation style to meet their needs. The role of trust and rapport in facilitating meaningful outcomes and creating a safe space for participants to learn and grow. Presenting the

Phil discusses whether staff should be allowed to use their own personal equipment while facilitating on a challenge course. The main points covered include the comfort factor, the availability of gear loops, and instilling confidence in participants. Phil argues against the policy of using personal equipment and provides reasons such as the limited time spent hanging in the harness, the availability of rescue equipment, and the potential liability issues. The importance of uniformity, understanding manufacturer's recommendations, and the psychological benefits to participants are also highlighted.   Takeaways Consider the reasons for allowing staff to use personal equipment on a challenge course The comfort factor may not be significant as challenge course facilitators do not spend much time hanging in the harness The availability of gear loops may not be essential and can add unnecessary weight to the harness Instilling confidence in participants can be achieved by wearing the same harness as th

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; emai

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

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 insta

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 t

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 c

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

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 - @ve

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 ar