Vertical Playpen

In this conversation, Phil and Mark Collard discuss the essential props that facilitators should carry to enhance their sessions. They explore the versatility and functionality of these tools, emphasizing the importance of emotional literacy and connection in group settings. The discussion highlights specific props, their uses, and the impact they have on facilitating meaningful interactions among participants.

• Props are essential for effective facilitation.
• Versatility of props allows for multiple uses in activities.
• Emotional tools help in building connections.
• Ubuntu cards are a top choice for facilitators.
• Weekendit cards offer a simple yet effective resource.
• Rope can be used in various activities and settings.
• Decks of cards can facilitate interaction and vulnerability.
• Emotional literacy is crucial for both young people and adults.
• Using props can transform the perception of activities.
• Facilitators can create hundreds of activities with a few tools.

Mark's Top 5; 

Ubuntu Cards (AUS) - https://www.playmeo.com/shop/ubuntu-cards/

We Connect Cards - https://weand.me/product/we-connect-cards/ or https://www.playmeo.com/shop/weconnect-cards/

Rope/Webbing - https://store.high5adventure.org/collections/rope-cord

Playing Cards

Emoji Cards - https://store.high5adventure.org/products/emoji-cards or https://www.playmeo.com/shop/emoji-cards/

Phil's Top 5;

Ubuntu Cards (US) - https://store.high5adventure.org/collections/facilitation-tools/products/ubuntu-cards

Spot Markers - https://store.high5adventure.org/collections/props-throwables/products/spot-markers

Rope/Webbing - https://store.high5adventure.org/collections/rope-cord

Emotions Cards - https://store.high5adventure.org/collections/facilitation-tools/products/emotions-by-high-5

Fleece Balls/Tossable items - https://store.high5adventure.org/collections/props-throwables/products/fleece-balls-pack-of-6

Additional Resources - 

Playmeo - https://www.playmeo.com/

Raccoon Circles - https://www.teamworkandteamplay.com/resources/new_rc_document_2011_final.pdf

Connect with Mark - [email protected]

Connect with Phil - [email protected]

Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

 

 

 

 

In this conversation, Phil and Jo Lee explore the concept of creative confidence, its roots in drama education, and the importance of arts in fostering self-worth and community. Jo shares her journey from being a drama teacher to advocating for the arts, discussing the transformative power of drama in education and the challenges faced in integrating arts into school curriculums. They delve into the significance of experiential learning, the fight for recognition of the arts, and the personal struggles with confidence and imposter syndrome. The discussion emphasizes the need for community support and the journey of self-discovery in building confidence and articulating one's skills.

• Creative confidence is essential for personal and professional growth.
• Drama serves as a powerful tool for building confidence.
• The arts are often undervalued in education despite their benefits.
• Experiential learning enhances engagement and skill acquisition.
• Transformative moments in drama can lead to significant personal development.
• The fight for drama in schools continues amidst standardized testing pressures.
• Confidence is not synonymous with extroversion; quiet confidence is equally valid.
• Community support plays a crucial role in enhancing self-worth.
• Building in success can help individuals recognize their strengths.
• Self-reflection is key to overcoming imposter syndrome and finding one's voice.

Learn more about Jo - https://www.joleecreativity.com/

Connect with Jo - [email protected]

Connect with Phil - [email protected]

Find us on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/verticalplaypen/

Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

 

In this episode, Phil shares his thoughts on various topics related to training and experiential learning. He recounts an incident involving an Apple Watch that mistakenly called 911 during a climbing session, emphasizing the importance of understanding technology's impact on safety. Phil also discusses the need for clarity in training procedures, urging trainers to differentiate between standard operating procedures and personal preferences. He highlights the significance of embracing failure as a learning tool, sharing activities designed to reinforce this concept. Overall, Phil encourages open communication and feedback in the training community.  

• Phil shares personal experiences and insights from his training sessions.
• The Apple Watch incident highlights the need for safety awareness.
• Trainers should clarify standard operating procedures versus personal preferences.
• Normalizing failure is crucial for effective learning.
• Phil emphasizes the importance of feedback in the training process.
• Understanding technology's role in safety is essential for trainers.
• Creating a supportive learning environment fosters growth.
• Encouraging mistakes can lead to better understanding and retention.
• Phil's approach to training focuses on experiential learning principles.
• Open communication is vital for improvement in the training community.

Let us know your questions;

Email - [email protected]

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

Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

In this conversation, Phil and Dave Searle explore the journey of leaving England for a life in the mountains, the challenges and rewards of building a career in outdoor guiding, and the importance of physicality in this demanding profession. They discuss the perceptions of outdoor professionals, the generational differences in outdoor education, and the balance between teaching and learning. The conversation also delves into critical discussions about knot tying, the importance of dressing knots, and the mental health challenges faced by professionals in the industry. Throughout, they emphasize the need for open communication, continuous learning, and the importance of community in the outdoor world.  

• Physical activity is essential for outdoor professionals.
• Guides must balance work and personal well-being.
• Teaching requires understanding the learner's perspective.
• Knot tying is a critical skill that requires attention to detail.
• The outdoor industry is evolving with new generations.
• Mental health is an important topic in outdoor professions.
• Community support is vital for outdoor professionals.
• Continuous learning is key to effective teaching.
• Open conversations can bridge generational gaps in knowledge.

Dave's socials;

• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/davejsearle/
• Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/c/DaveSearle

Oak App - https://getoak.app/

Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

Connect with Phil;

Email - [email protected]

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

 

In this conversation, Phil talks to Brandon Peacock, a trauma survivor and founder of the charity Hit the Ground Running. They discuss Brandon's personal experience with trauma and how he has turned it into a positive force in his life. They also touch on the importance of empowerment, community, and accountability in the recovery process. Brandon shares his insights on mentorship and the value of connecting with others who have similar experiences. Overall, the conversation highlights the power of resilience and the ability to find purpose in the face of adversity.  

• Trauma survivors can find empowerment and purpose by using their experiences to make a positive impact in the world.
• Supportive structures, such as a strong community and mentors, play a crucial role in the recovery process.
• Accountability and taking personal responsibility are important for overcoming trauma and achieving personal growth.
• Sharing personal stories and connecting with others who have similar experiences can provide a sense of community and hope.
• Empowering individuals to take control of their own recovery and providing them with the tools and resources they need is essential.

Learn more about Hit the Ground Running - https://www.htgrcharity.com/

Learn more about Brandon's story - https://www.htgrcharity.com/brandon-peacock

Connect with Brandon - [email protected]

Music and Sound effects - epidemicsound.com

In this episode, Phil reflects on his 2018 blog post 'Finding Pinecones,' emphasizing the significance of small moments in learning and connection. He shares a personal story about a child's unexpected favorite camp memory and discusses the impact of unplanned interactions during a training session with students from Iraq. Phil offers practical strategies for facilitators to enhance group dynamics, such as sharing meals, encouraging questions, and adapting to the group's needs. He concludes by highlighting the importance of flexibility in facilitation and the value of recognizing those small, impactful moments.  

• The small moments often have a bigger impact than we think.
• Unplanned interactions can lead to significant learning experiences.
• Eating meals together fosters connection and openness.
• Creating opportunities for questions enhances engagement.
• Flexibility in facilitation is crucial for meeting group needs.
• Listening to participants can reveal their true interests.
• Building relationships is key to effective group dynamics.
• Recognizing the value of simple moments can enrich experiences.
• Facilitators should be prepared to adapt their plans.
• Finding 'pinecones' can lead to unexpected insights.

Connect with Phil;

email - [email protected]

instagram - @verticalplaypen

Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

In this conversation, Phil and Lisa explore the concept of flow state, particularly in the context of facilitation and training. They discuss personal experiences with flow, the balance between ability and challenge, and the role of facilitators in creating an environment conducive to flow. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding individual and group dynamics to enhance engagement and learning outcomes.  

• Facilitators play a crucial role in creating flow for participants.
• Personal experiences can significantly influence the perception of flow.
• Boredom and apathy can arise from low challenge in a group setting.
• High challenge with low ability can lead to frustration and disengagement.
• Designing activities that promote flow requires understanding group dynamics.
• Intrinsic motivation is key to maintaining engagement in learning environments.
• Facilitators should model flow to inspire participants.
• Challenge by choice allows individuals to find their own balance of ability and challenge.
• Reflection on past experiences can inform future facilitation strategies.

Connect with Lisa - [email protected]

Connect with Phil;

email - [email protected]

instagram - @verticalplaypen

Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

Ted-Ed Flow State video - https://www.ted.com/talks/ted_ed_how_to_enter_flow_state?subtitle=en

 

Christy Brodeur (Project Adventure) and Chris Damboise (High 5) join Phil to discuss the lesser known history of challenge courses. The discussion covers the contributions of Georges Hébert, Yvonne Moreau, the development of obstacle courses, and the integration of challenge courses into Outward Bound and Project Adventure. The conversation also touches on the role of women in the history of challenge courses and the transition from military-focused training to educational and team development purposes. The guests highlight the importance of understanding the historical context and origins of challenge courses in order to have meaningful discussions about accessibility and diversity in the field. It discusses how challenge courses were initially developed as a way to prepare soldiers for war and how they later transitioned into educational and recreational settings. The conversation also touches on the commercialization of challenge courses and the need for practitioners to be intentional and inclusive in their approach. The key themes include the historical context of challenge courses, the impact of culture and community, and the importance of accessibility and inclusivity.  

• Challenge courses have their origins in military training and physical fitness, specifically in the French military and the experiences of Georges Hébert.
• The development of challenge courses involved the transformation of military training methods into educational and team development tools.
• The history of challenge courses includes the contributions of women, although their roles have often been overlooked or minimized.
• Understanding the historical context and origins of challenge courses is important for discussions about accessibility and diversity in the field. Challenge courses have their roots in military training and the Outward Bound model, which incorporated service projects as part of the experience.
• The development of challenge courses was influenced by the need to prepare soldiers for war and the realization that traditional sports alone were not sufficient for combat readiness.
• Challenge courses have evolved to be used in educational and recreational settings, but it is important for practitioners to be intentional and inclusive in their approach.
• The commercialization of challenge courses has led to a pay-to-play model, which can limit access for certain communities. Efforts should be made to make challenge courses more accessible and culturally relevant.

For Christy's sited research click here - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1A2VTPWo4J43ZPQb2D5f96nTlOZpXjhd1/view?usp=sharing

Connect with Christy - [email protected]

Connect with Chris Damboise - [email protected]

Connect with Phil;

email - [email protected]

instagram - @verticalplaypen

Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

 

In this episode of Vertical Playpen, Phil discusses the top five skills that every belayer should possess. He emphasizes the importance of physicality, effective communication, openness to feedback, the necessity of checklists, and understanding the physics involved in belaying. Each skill is explored in detail, providing insights and practical tips for improving belaying techniques and ensuring safety while climbing.  

• Belaying requires a solid understanding of physicality and stance.
• Effective communication with climbers enhances their experience.
• Being open to feedback is crucial for growth as a belayer.
• Checklists help prevent complacency and ensure safety.
• Understanding physics can improve belaying techniques.
• Maintaining a proper belay stance protects your back.
• Regular check-ins with climbers build trust and confidence.
• Adaptability in technique is key to being a great belayer.
• Visual aids can enhance understanding of belaying skills.
• Always prioritize safety through thorough checks and awareness.

Connect with Phil;

email - [email protected]

instagram - @verticalplaypen

Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

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 highlights the resilience and adaptability required in facilitation, and the importance of maintaining a positive and flexible mindset.  

• Quickly pivot and adapt when faced with unexpected challenges
• Focus on what you have and make adjustments as needed
• Avoid over-apologizing or mentioning what's missing
• Value the importance of planning and preparation, even if the original plan doesn't work out Understand the goals and themes of activities, rather than just focusing on the activities themselves.
• Radical acceptance and trust are key in co-facilitation, allowing each facilitator to bring their own style and ideas.
• Having a process for planning and preparation is important for a successful program.
• Incorporating novel and unique aspects into a program can enhance engagement and create memorable experiences.
• Resilience and adaptability are essential qualities for facilitators to navigate setbacks and challenges.

Connect with Phil;

email - [email protected]

instagram - @verticalplaypen

Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com