Vertical Playpen

In this episode, Phil Brown discusses the importance of empowering participants in climbing activities by allowing them to make choices about their experience, particularly the choice to come down when they feel uncomfortable. He challenges traditional mindsets that prioritize reaching the top as the ultimate goal and emphasizes the need for facilitators to listen to participants' needs and create a supportive environment. Phil advocates for a shift in perspective that prioritizes emotional safety and encourages facilitators to critically evaluate their programming and language to enhance the overall experience for all participants.   * If a participant wants to come down, always say yes. * Celebrating those who advocate for themselves is crucial. * Reaching the top shouldn't be the only measure of success. * Facilitators must balance challenge and panic for participants. * It's important to honor participants' choices for emotional safety. * Encouragement should be framed with respect for individual needs. * Program design should allow for adequate time and support. * Language used in facilitation can impact participants' experiences. * Facilitators should continuously critique and improve their programming. * Empowering participants leads to better outcomes in climbing experiences. Connect with Phil - podcast@high5adventure.org [podcast@high5adventure.org] Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/verticalplaypen/ [https://www.instagram.com/verticalplaypen/] Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org Music and Sound effects - epidemicsound.com

In this conversation, Phil Brown and Devin Farkas discuss the evolving landscape of outdoor education, focusing on accessibility, the importance of experiential learning, and the development of leadership skills in outdoor settings. They explore the core impacts of outdoor education, including confidence building and connection with nature, while also addressing the need to shift perspectives on risk and challenge. The discussion culminates in a vision for the future of outdoor education that emphasizes reducing barriers and enhancing learning experiences through outdoor spaces.   * Outdoor education should be accessible to all, not just the adventurous few. * Experiential learning is key to achieving educational outcomes. * Confidence, connection, and skill development are core impacts of outdoor education. * The focus should be on creating meaningful experiences, not just flashy adventures. * Leadership development is best achieved in low-risk environments. * Facilitators should allow discomfort to foster learning opportunities. * The situational leadership model can enhance group dynamics. * Outdoor education can be integrated into everyday learning environments. * The future of outdoor education lies in reducing barriers and enhancing accessibility. Learn more about Devin - workwithdevin.com Connect with Phil - podcast@high5adventure.org [podcast@high5adventure.org] Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/verticalplaypen/ [https://www.instagram.com/verticalplaypen/] Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

In this conversation, Phil Brown discusses the nuances of training in challenge courses, emphasizing the importance of shared experiences and safety protocols. He recounts a near miss incident involving a participant and a helmet, highlighting the lessons learned and the need for vigilance among facilitators. The discussion encourages a culture of continuous learning.   * Facilitators should encourage discussions about impactful moments. * Safety protocols must be adapted based on real experiences. * Helmets can be both beneficial and problematic in certain scenarios. * Vigilance is crucial when managing participants on challenge courses. * Facilitators should practice lowering techniques before climbing. * Sharing stories helps build a learning community. * Anecdotal experiences can provide valuable lessons not found in manuals. * Continuous learning is essential in the outdoor education industry. * Engagement with the community can lead to shared insights and improvements. Connect with Phil - podcast@high5adventure.org [podcast@high5adventure.org] Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org

In this conversation, Phil Brown and Ken Weisner explore the significance of play in learning and personal development. Ken shares his journey into the world of play, highlighting key moments that shaped his understanding of its importance. They discuss the barriers adults face in engaging with play, the marketing challenges within the industry, and the profound impact play can have on team dynamics and personal growth. Ken emphasizes the essential qualities of a facilitator in creating a playful environment, underscoring the need for energy and passion in facilitating play. In this conversation, Ken Weisner shares insights on the importance of play in education and personal development. He emphasizes the need for a playful mindset, engaging activities, and the power of empathy in connecting with participants. Ken discusses his favorite activities that foster connection and learning, and he reflects on his journey towards writing a book about the significance of play.   * Play is essential for learning and personal growth. * Experiences in Montessori education can reshape perspectives on learning. * Adults often fear looking silly, which hinders their ability to play. * Creating a safe environment is crucial for adult play. * Marketing play effectively can change perceptions of its value. * Fun experiences can lead to significant personal insights. * Team bonding through play can enhance relationships and performance. * Facilitators must exude energy and passion to engage participants. * Reflection can occur without verbal reporting; internalization is key. * Play can break down barriers and foster connections among diverse groups. You have to have a child's mind. Learn more about Ken - https://www.beachplaycompany.com/ [https://www.beachplaycompany.com/] Ask me a question - podcast@high5adventure.org [podcast@high5adventure.org] Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

In this conversation, Romy Alexandra discusses the concept of experiential learning, sharing her personal journey and insights into how experiential education can transform traditional learning methods. She emphasizes the importance of engaging learners through experience, reflection, and action, and explores the experiential learning cycle and various learning styles. The discussion also highlights the significance of reflection in the learning process and how it can be made more engaging. Romy shares practical strategies for facilitators to enhance their teaching methods and the need to bridge theory and practice in education.   * Experiential learning is about learning through experience, reflection, thinking, and acting. * Reflection is essential for deep learning and should be varied to keep it engaging. * Learning styles are preferences that can change over time and should not box learners in. * The experiential learning cycle can be applied to all aspects of life, not just formal education. * Peer learning is often more impactful than facilitator-led instruction. * Creating a safe space for reflection can lead to powerful insights and learning outcomes. * Facilitators should strive to engage all learning styles in their teaching methods. * The journey of learning is continuous and can spiral into deeper understanding and action. Connect with Romy - romy@romy-alexandra.com [romy@romy-alexandra.com] Connect with Phil - podcast@high5adventure.org [podcast@high5adventure.org] Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com