In this engaging podcast episode, Phil Brown, Sherry Bagley, and Chad Littlefield explore the themes of curiosity, experiential education, and the importance of relationships in facilitation. They discuss how questions can unlock deeper conversations, the significance of observation in understanding group dynamics, and the value of critique for continuous improvement. The conversation also touches on the role of charisma and authenticity in facilitation, the necessity of structure, and the inspiration drawn from community and relationships. The episode concludes with reflections on personal growth and the power of asking questions.  

• Questions are the key that unlocks the door to deeper understanding.
• Building relationships is foundational in experiential education.
• Observation is crucial for facilitators to meet group needs.
• Critique is essential for continuous improvement in practice.
• Staying curious prevents stagnation in long-term facilitation.
• Charisma can be developed as a skill over time.
• Structure in facilitation can enhance engagement and effectiveness.
• Finding inspiration often comes from connecting with new people.
• The power of relationships is central to effective education.
• Asking questions can lead to unexpected and enriching conversations.

Come hang out with the Phil, Chad and Sherry at the AEE conference - https://www.aee.org/events/2025-aee-international-conference

Learn more about AEE - https://www.aee.org/

Connect with the podcast - 

email - [email protected]

instagram - https://www.instagram.com/verticalplaypen/

Support the podcast - www.verticalplaypen.org

Music and sound effects - www.epidemicsound.com

 

In this conversation, Phil Brown and Jimmy Burroughes delve into the critical issue of burnout in the workplace, exploring its definitions, symptoms, personal experiences, and the broader implications for organizations. They discuss the alarming statistics surrounding employee engagement and burnout, emphasizing the need for effective strategies to combat these issues. Jimmy shares his personal journey through burnout and the lessons learned, while also providing actionable advice for leaders and organizations to foster a healthier work environment. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding burnout not just as an individual issue, but as a systemic challenge that affects overall organizational health and productivity.  

• Burnout is defined by the imbalance between expectations and ability.
• Key symptoms of burnout include anxiety, isolation, and a lack of care.
• Many high achievers are at risk of burnout due to their commitment.
• The workplace has become more demanding, leading to increased burnout rates.
• Effective communication and role clarity are essential in preventing burnout.
• Leaders must model healthy boundaries and the ability to say no.
• Creating headspace is crucial for reflection and prioritization.
• Simplifying processes can help teams work more effectively.
• Reducing burnout can significantly enhance productivity and engagement.
• Organizations must recognize the financial implications of burnout.

Learn more about Jimmy - https://www.jimmyburroughes.com/

Connect with Jimmy - [email protected]

 Connect with the podcast - [email protected]

Support the podcast - www.verticalplaypen.org

Music and sound effects - www.epidemicsound.com

 

This episode celebrates the 25th anniversary of High 5 Adventure Learning Center, featuring stories and interviews from participants who share their transformative experiences. The conversation highlights the impact of adventure education on personal growth, community building, and the importance of relationships in fostering confidence and leadership skills.  

Order of interviews;

1 - Ron Vercellone - Dean of Students, Greater Lowell Technical High School

2 - Bob Rojee - Senior Advisor, SPARC (Summer Programs and Auxiliary Revenue Collaborative)

3 - Alycia Nored - Wellness Teacher, Cony Middle and High School

4 - Dave Langston - Camp Dudley/ Camp Kiniya

5 - Nicki Hall - Founding Member of High 5

25th Anniversary Online Auction - https://www.32auctions.com/High52025

Support the podcast - www.verticalplaypen.com

Music and sound effects - www.epidemicsound.com

 

 

Phil Brown and Rebecca Courtney delve into the concept of emergent facilitation, exploring its principles, preparation strategies, and the importance of building connections with participants. They discuss the challenges of facilitating in corporate environments, the value of addressing fears, and the benefits of working with challenging groups. The conversation emphasizes the need for facilitators to trust their intuition and adapt to the needs of the group, moving away from rigid agendas to a more fluid approach. Rebecca shares insights on how they teach emergent facilitation at AJ&Smart, highlighting the importance of resilience and adaptability in the role of a facilitator.  

• Emergent facilitation is about adaptability and flow.
• Unshakeability is crucial for facilitators.
• Experience helps build resilience in facilitation.
• Preparation involves both mental and physical readiness.
• Connecting with participants is essential before diving into content.
• Addressing fears can shift group energy positively.
• Challenging groups can lead to greater facilitator growth.
• Trusting your intuition is key in facilitation.
• Agendas should be flexible to meet group needs.
• Teaching emergent facilitation focuses on building confidence and skills.

Learn more about AJ&Smart;

https://facilitator.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@AJSmart

Connect with Rebecca on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-courtney-928347241/

Connect with the podcast;

email - [email protected]

instagram - https://www.instagram.com/verticalplaypen/

Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org

Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

In this conversation, Phil and Lisa explore the complexities of defining what makes a group great in a facilitation context. They discuss the role of the facilitator's ego, the subjective nature of group dynamics, and the importance of evaluating success beyond personal feelings. The dialogue emphasizes the need for facilitators to balance their own experiences with the goals of the group, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of participant engagement and learning outcomes.

• A great group often means the facilitator felt liked.
• Facilitators' egos can influence their perception of group success.
• Group dynamics are subjective and can vary by facilitator.
• Struggle in a group can lead to greater learning experiences.
• It's important to evaluate groups based on goals, not just feelings.
• Facilitators should embrace their humanity in the process.
• The definition of a great group can differ among facilitators.
• Patience and support within a group enhance the experience.
• Fun and challenge can coexist in group settings.
• Questions about group success should be more nuanced.

Connect with the podcast - 

email - [email protected]

instagram - https://www.instagram.com/verticalplaypen/

Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org

Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

In this conversation, Phil Brown and Will Dobud discuss the themes of youth mental health, the perceptions of today's youth, and the importance of experiential education. They explore the origins of the book 'Kids These Days', the societal tendency to label and control youth, and the historical context of education and mental health. The discussion emphasizes the need for adults to rethink their approach to youth, focusing on building connections and understanding the environmental influences on development.  

• Historical figures have often lamented the state of youth, dating back to Socrates.
• Overprotection of youth can lead to disconnection and misunderstanding.
• Experiential education allows youth to take risks and learn from failures.
• The industrialized education system may not serve the needs of today's youth.
• Mental health diagnoses may reflect societal failures rather than individual issues.
• Youth can be seen as indicators of societal health, akin to canaries in coal mines.
• Environmental factors significantly influence youth development and mental health.
• Building connections with youth requires understanding their unique experiences.
• Sitting and sharing meals with youth fosters connection and understanding.

Find more info about the book - https://www.kidsthesedaysbook.com/

Connect with Will - [email protected] 

Connect with Phil;

email - [email protected]

instagram - https://www.instagram.com/verticalplaypen/

Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org

Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

In this conversation, Phil shares his experiences and observations regarding cultural differences in facilitation and education between the United States and England. He discusses the energetic and often overly positive approach prevalent in American facilitation, contrasting it with the more reserved and dry style he associates with English culture. The conversation also touches on language barriers, particularly the use of cursing, and how these cultural nuances impact communication and facilitation styles. Phil emphasizes the importance of understanding these differences to enhance the effectiveness of facilitation across diverse cultural contexts.  

• Phil reflects on his blend of American and English styles.
• American facilitation often feels overly peppy to Phil.
• He finds certain American facilitation stories unnecessary.
• Phil associates American culture with toxic positivity.
• Cursing is more accepted in England than in the U.S.
• Language context is crucial in communication.
• Facilitation styles vary significantly across cultures.
• Summer camp culture influences American facilitation.
• Phil notes that English facilitation is less playful.
• Understanding cultural differences is key to effective facilitation.

Connect with Phil;

email - [email protected]

instagram - https://www.instagram.com/verticalplaypen/

Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org

In this episode, Phil Brown and Lisa Hunt discuss the upcoming workshop offering, 'Navigating Challenging Dialogue,' exploring its framework, importance, and real-life applications. They delve into the reasons why people avoid difficult conversations, the steps involved in preparing for such dialogues, and the benefits of personal scenarios in workshops. The conversation emphasizes the value of communication skills in various contexts, aiming to equip listeners with tools to navigate challenging dialogues effectively.

• Navigating challenging dialogue is a common human experience.
• Many avoid difficult conversations due to fear of damaging relationships.
• Preparation is key to effective communication in challenging dialogues.
• The process involves identifying the story in your head and relevant facts.
• Emotions are important but should be managed during difficult conversations.
• Real-life scenarios enhance the learning experience in workshops.
• Everyone can benefit from improving their communication skills.
• The workshop is designed for anyone in a position to give feedback.
• Challenging conversations can strengthen relationships rather than harm them.
• Having a clear process reduces anxiety in difficult dialogues.

Learn more about the workshop - https://high5adventure.org/navigating-challenging-dialogue-essentials/

Connect with Lisa - [email protected]

Connect with Phil;

Email - [email protected]

Instagram - @verticalplaypen

Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org

Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

"ADHD is not an excuse, it's a reason."

In this episode, Phil and Ky Westcott (mental health advocate - @thevibewithky) delve into the complexities of introversion, mental health, and the evolving understanding of ADHD. They discuss the importance of authenticity in sharing personal struggles, the rise in ADHD diagnoses, and the need for better education around mental health in schools. Ky shares his journey from injury to self-discovery through social media, emphasizing the significance of vulnerability and emotional intelligence in today's youth. The conversation highlights the impact of societal changes on mental health awareness and the importance of supporting individuals in their mental health journeys.  

• Introversion does not limit performative abilities.
• The journey of self-discovery can start from personal struggles.
• Social media can be a platform for authenticity and connection.
• ADHD awareness is increasing due to more open conversations.
• Education systems need to adapt to the emotional intelligence of students.
• Mental health discussions were lacking in past generations.
• ADHD is a spectrum that evolves over time.
• Vulnerability in adults can positively influence youth.
• Stories of late diagnoses highlight the need for awareness.
• Support and understanding are crucial for mental health management.

Find Ky;

Instagram - @thevibewithky

TikTok - @thevibewithky

Listen to his podcast - https://open.spotify.com/show/2LmJp4Q0kedi0OhKAoqIzp?si=aa7fba85ba964ebf

Emotions by High 5 - https://store.high5adventure.org/collections/high-5-products/products/emotions-by-high-5

Connect with Phil;

Email - [email protected]

Instagram - @verticalplaypen

Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org

Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

In this episode, Phil revisits the influential book 'Silver Bullets' by Karl Rohnke, sharing key insights and play pointers that remain relevant in adventure education today. He emphasizes the importance of engagement, flexibility in rules, variety in activities, inclusivity in team selection, and self-competition, all aimed at enhancing the experiential learning process.

• Engagement in activities is crucial for effective learning.
• Flexibility in rules can enhance participation and enjoyment.
• Variety in activities prevents boredom and keeps participants engaged.
• Inclusivity in team selection fosters a sense of belonging.
• Self-competition encourages personal growth and motivation.
• Minimizing rules can lead to more dynamic and engaging activities.
• Bending rules can adapt activities to fit different groups.
• Avoiding repetitive activities maintains interest and excitement.
• Observation can be a valid form of participation.
• Karl Rohnke's principles continue to influence adventure education.

Connect with Phil;

email - [email protected]

instagram - https://www.instagram.com/verticalplaypen/

Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org

Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com