Vertical Playpen

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 - [email protected]

instagram - @verticalplaypen

Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

Inspired by a New York Times article, this conversation explores the topic of loneliness and the importance of connection in adventure education. Jim shares his personal experience with loneliness during his hospital stay and highlights the power of connection in sustaining him. The conversation emphasizes the need for intentional community building in workshops and the adventure education industry. It also discusses the importance of creating a supportive community for newcomers in the field through mentorship programs and scholarships. The conversation highlights the importance of reaching out and connecting with others. It emphasizes the power of simple gestures and how they can create a positive reaction in the other person. Takeaways;

• Loneliness can have detrimental effects on physical and mental health.
• Connection and community building are essential in adventure education.
• Creating intentional moments for connection in workshops can enhance the overall experience.
• The adventure education industry should prioritize community building and support for newcomers.

NYT Article on Loneliness - https://www.nytimes.com/2023/09/06/opinion/loneliness-epidemic-solutions.html

NYT Loneliness video - https://www.nytimes.com/2023/12/21/opinion/loneliness-epidemic-mental-health.html

Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

In this episode, the Phil, Lisa and Chris Ortiz discuss the TV show 'The Bear', produced by FX and available on HULU, and its relevance to their work in team development and group dynamics. They explore the complex characters and the impact of first impressions. The family dynamics and relationships in the show are also highlighted. The hosts provide a brief synopsis of the show and discuss the symbolism and bookending used in the storytelling. They compare 'The Bear' to another popular show, 'Ted Lasso,' and discuss the raw emotion and uncomfortable moments depicted in 'The Bear.' The importance of observation and group dynamics in facilitation work is emphasized. The concept of individual expression versus conformity is explored, along with the resistance to change and the need for alignment. The episode concludes with a preview of future episodes. Takeaways;

• First impressions can be misleading, and people often have more dimensions than they initially present.
• The show 'The Bear' portrays raw emotion and uncomfortable moments, allowing viewers to sit in the discomfort and reflect on real-life experiences.
• Observation of group dynamics is an essential skill for facilitators, and 'The Bear' provides valuable insights into the dynamics of a kitchen staff.
• Balancing individual expression and conformity is crucial in team dynamics and program design.
• Resistance to change can be overcome by creating alignment and focusing on the benefits of adopting new practices.

Contact the podcast;

Email - [email protected]

Instagram - @verticalplaypen

Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

In this episode, Phil and Rich provide advice on how to present at conferences. They discuss the process of preparing and submitting a presentation, including choosing a title and solving a problem. They also emphasize the importance of co-presenting and structuring workshops with experiential activities. They suggest submitting workshop ideas multiple times and highlight the benefits of presenting at smaller conferences for emerging professionals. They also discuss the challenges of presenting to a large audience and the value of vulnerability in presenting. They encourage listeners to practice and test their workshops with smaller groups and provide actionable steps for developing workshop ideas. Takeaways;

• Everyone has something to present on at conferences.
• Choose a title that solves a problem and grabs the audiences attention.
• You don't need to have the full workshop figured out before submitting.
• Consider co-presenting for your first few workshops.
• Practice and test your workshops with smaller groups before presenting to a large audience.

VOTE FOR VERTICAL PLAYPEN - https://www.facebook.com/groups/outdoormediaawards/permalink/1023821898848554/

Submit a workshop for the High 5 Symposium -

TO SUBMIT A PROPOSAL, PLEASE INCLUDE: Workshop Title - Be captivating in a few words! Workshop Description - Craft a compelling 50-word summary. Audience - Identify who will benefit from your workshop. Outcomes - Outline what attendees will gain or achieve. Short Bio - Introduce yourself in 30 words or less. High-Resolution Photo/Headshot - Put a face to your name! All workshop sessions are 90 minutes. Email your proposal to [email protected] with "2024 Symposium Presentation" in the subject line. Submission Deadline: February 9, 2024.

Let us know what you would like us to discuss in future episodes.

Email - [email protected]

Instagram - @verticalplaypen

Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com

Join Phil and Lisa as they embark on an insightful exploration of the question, "What makes a group great?" We've all been there, finishing a program, and when asked, "How was the group?" we casually respond with "They were great."

But what exactly defines greatness in a group? Is it the absence of issues, genuine camaraderie, collective learning, or something more?

Here are some factors a facilitator might consider that impact how much a group may struggle (as mentioned by Lisa):

• Social, Emotional, Economic and Cultural history of the group
• Length of Program (hours)
• Structure of the program (in school, year long, field trip)
• Goals of Program
• Relationship facilitator has to group
• Relationship facilitator has to the “Client” or chaperone
• Experience level of Facilitator

If you have a topic or question for us to discuss you can send it to;

Email - [email protected]

Instagram - @verticalplaypen

Music and sound effects - epidemicsound.com