Archives: Podcasts

How Playworks Is Changing Education Through Play | Jill Vialet How Playworks Is Changing Education Through Play | Jill Vialet Description Episode 316: In this episode, Jill Vialet, founder of Playworks, shares insights on the importance of play in childhood development, the science behind play, and practical activities to incorporate play into daily life. She […]

Making a Ruckus: Reimagining Schools | Danny Bauer Making a Ruckus: Reimagining Schools | Danny Bauer Description Episode 315: In this interview, Danny Bauer, aka The Ruckus Maker, shares his journey from student to educator, emphasizing the importance of disruption, joy, and authenticity in schools. Discover how making a ruckus can transform education by fostering […]

Equipment Storage Best Practices Equipment Storage Best Practices Description Episode 314: 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 […]

Embracing Play | Rebecca Courtney Embracing Play | Rebecca Courtney Description Episode 313: Rebecca Courtney shares her journey of valuing influence, experimenting with playful activities, and redefining success in facilitation. In this episode we discuss:  Rebecca’s motivations for transitioning from AJ&Smart to solo consulting How her background in teaching influences her facilitation style The importance […]

How Neuroscience Can Transform Schools | Lisa Riegel How Neuroscience Can Transform Schools | Lisa Riegel Description Episode 312: In this insightful interview, Lisa Riegel shares her journey from education to neuroscience, emphasizing the importance of understanding brain science to transform educational systems. Discover practical strategies for creating engaging, relevant, and supportive learning environments that […]

The Campfire Method | Jan Keck The Campfire Method | Jan Keck Description Episode 311: Phil is joined by Jan Keck to explore innovative approaches to group facilitation, risk-taking, and designing impactful activities. Jan shares practical frameworks like the ‘campfire method’ and ‘risk ramp’ to help facilitators create safer, more engaging spaces that encourage authentic participation. […]

Everyday Acts of Facilitation | Beth Cougler Blom Everyday Acts of Facilitation | Beth Cougler Blom Description  Episode 310: In this interview, Beth Cougler Blom discusses her book ‘Everyday Acts of Facilitation,’ emphasizing the human, interpersonal, and mindset skills essential for effective facilitation. The conversation explores how facilitation is rooted in communication, authenticity, and everyday […]

Real Vs Fake Jobs on Challenge Courses | Lisa Hunt Real Vs Fake Jobs on Challenge Courses | Lisa Hunt Description  Episode 309: Lisa Hunt explores the concepts of real and fake jobs in challenge course programming, emphasizing the importance of meaningful participation and efficient resource use. Lisa discusses how to identify essential tasks, avoid unnecessary […]

Authentic Connections and Neurodivergent Facilitation | Robb Armstrong Authentic Connections and Neurodivergent Facilitation | Robb Armstrong Description Episode 308: In this conversation, Phil Brown and Robb Armstrong explore the intersections of experiential education, personal growth, and community building. They share insights on the importance of authentic connections, the value of one-on-one mentorship, and navigating neurodivergence […]

Group Dynamics | Chris Ortiz Group Dynamics | Chris Ortiz Description Episode 307: Chris Ortiz and Lisa Hunt explore the intricacies of team dynamics and group behavior. They discuss the importance of understanding group dynamics in various roles, including education and facilitation. The conversation delves into Kurt Lewin’s equation of behavior, the impact of expectations […]