Shows
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalSo You Want to Bring Trauma-Informed Approaches to Your Work?In this conversation, Candace Brendler speaks with Elizabeth Allen, the Director of Impact and Learning at Justice Outside. They discuss the mission of Justice Outside, Elizabeth's career journey in trauma-informed practices, and the importance of creating inclusive outdoor experiences. Elizabeth shares insights into her daily work, the significance of trauma-informed care, and how to foster inclusivity within organizations. The conversation highlights the various pathways to a career in this field and concludes with resources for further learning. Elizabth will be joining AORE for the 2025 Inclusivity in the Outdoors month. You can learn more here. Meet...2025-04-1838 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalSo You Want to Be a Race Director?In this conversation, Candace Brendler interviews John Lacroix, the race director of the Human Potential Running Series, discussing the multifaceted role of a race director, the importance of risk management, community building through volunteerism, and the unique challenges of organizing trail running events. John shares insights into his career journey, the logistics involved in race planning, and the essential qualities and experiences needed to be a successful race director. In this conversation, John Lacroix discusses the unique mindset required for trail running and race directing, emphasizing the importance of community and inclusivity in the sport. He reflects on the...2025-04-0741 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalSo You Want to Create Awesome Youth Leadership Development Programs?In this conversation, Candace Brendler speaks with Elliot Drake-Maurer, the High School Leader Coordinator for the Oregon State University Extension Outdoor School. They discuss the structure and impact of outdoor education programs, the role of high school leaders, and the importance of inclusivity in outdoor experiences. Elliot shares his career journey, the barriers faced by students, and the significance of listening to community needs. The conversation also touches on the upcoming AORE Inclusive Summit and the importance of professional development in outdoor education. Elliot will be joining AORE for the 2025 Inclusivity in the Outdoors month. You can learn more here. Me...2025-03-3143 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalSo You Want to Operate a Mobile Wilderness Program? In this conversation, Candace Brendler speaks with Micah Leinbach, the executive director of the BOAT Bus, about the innovative mobile wilderness program designed to make outdoor education more accessible. They discuss the importance of inclusion in outdoor recreation, the unique model of the BOAT Bus, and the challenges and strategies related to funding, insurance, and partnerships. Micah shares insights from his career journey, the daily operations of the BOAT Bus, and the significance of collaboration in the outdoor education space. Micah discusses the importance of collaboration in outdoor education, the challenges and successes of building a nonprofit from scratch, and t...2025-03-2747 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalSo You Want to Use Data Science to Create Accessible Environments? In this conversation, Candace Brendler speaks with Courtney Schultz, PhD, about the intersection of data science and accessibility in outdoor environments. They discuss the importance of using data to create inclusive spaces, the role of research in understanding community needs, and the necessity of innovative approaches to surveying and data collection. Courtney shares her career journey, emphasizing the blend of practical experience in outdoor recreation with academic research. The discussion also touches on leadership in creating inclusive organizations and the urgent need to redefine inclusivity in the outdoors, making accessible environments a fundamental right for all. Courtney will be...2025-03-2434 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalSo You Want to Create Adaptive Recreation Opportunities?Check out Candace Brendler's conversation with Joe Stone, co-owner of Dovetail Trails Consulting, about the importance of creating adaptive and accessible recreation opportunities for people with disabilities. They discuss the role of Dovetail in advocating for disability rights, the challenges faced in making trails accessible, and the significance of providing detailed trail information. Joe shares his personal journey into this field, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and the involvement of people with disabilities in the process. The conversation concludes with an invitation to the Inclusive Summit, highlighting the value of learning about disability inclusion in outdoor recreation. ...2025-03-1837 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalSo You Want to Run an Urban Outdoor Experiential Nonprofit?Join Candace Brendler as she chats with Heather West, Executive Director of Loop NOLA. Heather shares insights into the operations of her nonprofit, which focuses on outdoor adventure education for youth in New Orleans. She discusses her career journey, the challenges of running an urban outdoor nonprofit, and the importance of inclusivity in outdoor education. Heather emphasizes the need for understanding the local community and creating programs that cater to diverse populations, while also addressing the unique environmental challenges of the region. Heather will be joining AORE for the 2025 Inclusivity in the Outdoors month. You c...2025-03-1224 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalSo You Want to Be a Trail Professional? In this episode, Candace Brendler speaks with Aaryn Kay and Mike Passo about the Trail Skills Project and the evolving landscape of trail building careers. They discuss their personal journeys into the trail industry, the importance of workforce development, and the role of volunteers in maintaining and building trails. The conversation also touches on the need for sustainable trail development, the various avenues into trail work, and the significance of language in defining trail professionals and their competencies. This conversation delves into the multifaceted world of trail professionals, exploring their daily lives, the importance of professional development, the need for i...2025-02-0741 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalSo You Want to Manage a Climbing Wall?Check out our first live recording of a podcast while at the 2024 Outdoor Professional Conference in New Orleans. This conversation focuses on the management of a university climbing wall at James Madison University (JMU), highlighting the roles of student staff, the daily operations, and the importance of community and inclusivity in climbing. The discussion includes insights into the training and requirements for staff, the costs associated with training, and the various programs offered to engage the climbing community. Our guests dive into the intricacies of managing climbing walls and organizing climbing competitions within outdoor recreation programs. It...2025-01-2354 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalSo You Want to Be an Outdoor Leader?In this conversation, Candace Brendler interviews Jeannette Stawski, the Executive Director of AORE, discussing her journey to leadership in outdoor education, the importance of credentials, the daily responsibilities of an executive director, and the significance of professional development and community building in the outdoor leadership space. Jeannette shares insights on her experiences, the challenges of nonprofit management, and the value of writing as a form of professional growth. Jeannette Stawski discusses her journey as an executive director, emphasizing the importance of embracing mistakes, creating an inclusive organization, and navigating work-life balance. She reflects on her personal growth...2025-01-0637 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalChangemakers and Trailblazers: The Importance of Intentional LeadershipIn this conversation the two Advancing the Outdoor Professional podcast hosts connection about outdoor leadership. Jeannette Stawski interviews Candace Brendler, exploring her journey in outdoor leadership and student development. Candace shares her experiences as a program coordinator at Princeton University, her passion for working with students, and her unique career path that includes roles as a rafting guide and middle school teacher. The discussion delves into Candace's leadership philosophy, emphasizing the importance of empowerment and responsibility, as well as her reflections on learning from past missteps in leadership roles. In this conversation, Candace Brendler and Jeannette Stawski...2024-12-0240 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalChangemakers and Trailblazers: The Outdoor ChampionIn this engaging conversation, Jeannette Stawski interviews Jenny Hill, the manager of membership and administration at AORE. They discuss Jenny's journey, her role in AORE, and the new initiative called the Outdoor Champion, which aims to create a community for individuals passionate about the outdoors. The conversation emphasizes the importance of inclusivity, engagement, and collaboration within the outdoor industry, highlighting how everyone can contribute to making the outdoors accessible and enjoyable for all. About Jenny Jenny Hill is AORE's resident indoorsy outdoor enthusiast. She fully recognizes the power of the outdoors and its h...2024-11-1526 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalSo You Want to Be a Leave No Trace Instructor?In this conversation, Candace Brendler interviews JD Tanner, Director of Education and Training at Leave No Trace, about his journey and experiences in outdoor education. JD shares his path to becoming an instructor, the role of traveling trainers, and the different levels of Leave No Trace certification. He discusses the importance of inclusivity in outdoor education, the day-to-day responsibilities of instructors, and the significance of professional development. The conversation also touches on the hand gestures associated with Leave No Trace principles, emphasizing the fun and engaging ways to teach outdoor ethics. About JD J...2024-11-0436 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalChangemakers and Trailblazers: Transformative Leadership Skills with HumanergyIn this conversation, David Wheatley, founder of Humanergy, shares his journey into leadership development, emphasizing the importance of intentional training and experiential learning. He discusses the HILT program, designed to facilitate behavior change in leaders, and reflects on the common challenges faced by those transitioning into leadership roles. The conversation also touches on the future of outdoor leadership and the need for collaboration within the industry to enhance leadership skills and opportunities. Resources: Humanergy Humanergy - First Fridays The 90 Minute Manager Project Adventure (Books) The Outdoor Leader, by Jeannette Stawaski About Davi...2024-10-2843 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalChangemakers and Trailblazers: Outdoor Recreation RoundtableJoin Jeannette Stawski as she chats with Chris Perkins to discuss the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR) and its recent report on recreation funding. Chris emphasizes the importance of outdoor recreation for physical and mental health, community connection, and economic impact. The discussion covers the challenges faced in maintaining outdoor infrastructure, the significance of the funding report, and the various sources of funding for outdoor recreation. Chris also highlights the need for advocacy and action to ensure sustainable funding and access to outdoor spaces for all. About Chris Chris Perkins is Vice President of Pr...2024-10-0233 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalChangemakers and Trailblazers: JOREL - Not Superman’s Father!Learn more about the Journal of Outdoor Recreation, Education and Leadership (JOREL) for our final podcast of season one! In this conversation, Guy Debrun discusses the JOREL with Jeannette Stawski. He shares his own outdoor adventures and explains his role as a lecturer in sports and recreation management. They discuss the importance of research in the outdoor industry and how the JOREL provides evidence-based best practices. The conversation discusses the importance of research in the field of outdoor recreation and education, specifically focusing on the Journal of Outdoor Recreation, Education, and Leadership (JOREL). The conversation highlights the...2024-08-1435 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalChangemakers and Trailblazers: What You Need to Know About the EXPLORE ActIn this conversation, Jeannette Stawski talks with Paul Sanford about the EXPLORE Act (H.R. 6492), federal legislation that aims to expand recreation opportunities on federal lands and waters. The EXPLORE Act (H.R. 6492) combines various recreation bills into one package and addresses issues such as equitable access, modernizing recreation facilities, and improving the permitting system for outdoor leaders. About Paul Paul Sanford is a Director of Equitable Access Policy at The Wilderness Society, where he develops organizational policy priorities that seek to ensure everyone benefits equitably from nature and public lands. A native of...2024-08-0145 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalSo You Want to Host a Latino Conservation Week Event?If you are interested in learning more about Latino Conservation week and how you can get involved, listen in as guest Jessica Godinez from the Hispanic Access Foundation shares with Candace Brendler how you can host an event. Latino Conservation Week (LCW) is a national initiative hosted by Hispanic Access Foundation to celebrate the Latino community's presence in the outdoors and promote access to public lands and outdoor recreation. LCW started in 2014 and has grown significantly, with over 300 events listed on the website last year. The events vary in nature, from camping trips and hikes to webinars a...2024-07-2237 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalSo You Want to Work in Parks and Rec?In this episode, Anthony Iracki, the professional development manager at Playcore, discusses his career in parks and recreation and how it intersects with outdoor recreation. He shares with podcast host Candace Brendler his journey from working in local parks and recreation departments to his current role in professional development. Anthony emphasizes the importance of starting at the local level, such as internships or volunteer opportunities, to gain experience and understanding of land management and programming. He also highlights the diverse range of positions available in parks and recreation, from programming to conservation to community outreach. Anthony encourages individuals to...2024-07-1739 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalChangemakers and Trailblazers: Establishing the Center for Veterans Employment (CVEO)In this episode, Jeannette Stawski interviews Aaron Leonard about the Center for Veterans Employment in the Outdoors (CVEO). Aaron shares his background in the outdoor adventure and experiential education field and how he ended up working with Guardian Revival, an organization focused on the health and wellbeing of veterans and first responders. He explains that CVEO aims to connect service members transitioning out of the military with opportunities to work in the outdoor field or pursue education and certifications related to outdoor employment. The conversation also covers the need for purposeful recruiting of veterans in the outdoor industry and...2024-07-0128 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalChangemakers and Trailblazers: The Confluence of States - Outdoor Recreation Offices UpdateJoin us as podcast host and AORE Executive Director Jeannette Stawski interviews Maribel Castañeda about the Confluence of States, a bipartisan network of state leaders advancing the outdoor recreation industry. Maribel discusses her role as the manager for the Confluence and her love for the outdoors. Jeannette and Maribel talk about the creation of the Confluence and the accords that outline the five pillars of their work: conservation and stewardship, education and workforce training, economic development, public health and wellness, and opportunity and experience. They discuss the challenges and obstacles in the outdoor recreation industry, including sus...2024-06-0629 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalSo You Want to Start a Regional Bikepacking Community?What is bike packing? Bikepacking is a form of long-distance cycling that involves traveling off-road and camping along the way. Join host Candace Brendler as she chats with Jacob T. Rex, the community programs coordinator at Bikepacking Roots. Jacob and Candace discuss the concept of regional bikepacking communities and the work being done by Bikepacking Roots to promote bikepacking across the US. Bikepacking Roots is a national nonprofit organization that focuses on advocacy, community programs, education, and route building. They have community stewards in different states who organize events, promote bikepacking, and help develop routes. The goal...2024-05-2837 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalChangemakers and Trailblazers: The Importance of In-Person Hands-On Learning in Wilderness MedicineIn this conversation, Jeannette Stawski is joined by Abby Rowe and Nadia Kimmel to discuss the importance of in-person, hands-on learning in wilderness medicine. They also discuss the Wilderness Medicine Education Collaborative (WMEC), which sets standards for wilderness medicine certifications. They explain that there is currently no industry standard for online wilderness medicine programs and express concerns about the limitations of online learning for practical skills and real-life scenarios. Abby and Nadia stress the importance of hands-on learning for developing physical skills, building confidence, and preparing individuals to respond in stressful situations. Meet A...2024-05-2139 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalSo You Want to Be an Inclusive Risk Manager?Let’s talk about the interdependence of emotional and physical safety in program design and the importance of creating a collaborative and inclusive environment. In this podcast episode, host Candace Brendler is joined by Steve Smith and Christine Norton to discuss trauma-informed risk management. It is important to prioritize program participants' physical and emotional safety, as well as the need to recognize pre-existing vulnerabilities and strengths related to past experiences of trauma. This episode emphasizes the shift from using terms like 'soft skills' and 'hard skills' to 'interpersonal skills' and 'technical skills' to promote inclusivity. ...2024-05-2141 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalSo you want to WORK at an Inclusive Outdoor Outfitter: What to Look For and How to Prep in the FieldWhat does inclusion mean when we're talking about how to look for an inclusive outdoor work environment? Working in the outdoor industry is unique because you're not only doing the job, you could be living with your coworkers and spending time away from the organization’s basecamp. Do you feel safe on the job? Do you see others that look like you — employees or customers? Are you being harassed? If we look to build our own outdoor experiences to be more diverse and inclusive this will help show what is possible for greater change rather than just accept...2024-05-1339 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalSo you want to CREATE an Inclusive Outdoor Working Environment?Leaders! This one's for you! Are you truly doing the best you can when creating an inclusive working environment? Are you creating a psychologically safe place for your employees? How do you know? Join podcast host Candace Brendler as she chats with two members of the A-DASH Collaborative, Jim Miller of Respect Outside and Emily Ambrose of Engage Coaching & Consulting, LLC. Jim and Emily share ways you can evaluate your progress and create a psychologically safe environment for all your employees. About Emily Trainer / Consultant / Coach / Owner, Engage Coaching & Consulting, LLC...2024-04-2242 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalSo You Want to Manage Risk Outdoors?Interested in learning about managing risk in the outdoors? Join us as our podcast host chats with Steve Smith, founder of Experiential Consulting, LLC as they discuss his career path and how you can also manage risk in the outdoors. Check out Steve's book Beneficial Risks: The Evolution of Risk Management for Outdoor and Experiential Education Programs. Order with this link and use code Near-miss to get a signed copy and free shipping! Want a preview of the book, check out one out here! About Steve Smith: Steve Smith fo...2024-04-1239 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalSo You Want to Be a DEI Consultant?Join Candace Brendler Coordinator for Outdoor Action at Princeton University and Rachel Hailey, Founder and Transformationalist of DEI Outdoors, as they discuss steps on how you can become a DEI consultant in the outdoor space. Learn more about DEI Outdoors2024-04-0927 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalSo You Want to Be a REI GuideSo you want to be a REI Guide? Join podcast host Candace Brendler and Jeremy Oyen, Senior Manager for REI Field Experiences as they discuss how you can become a REI Guide, with valuable insight from how long the process takes to pay and benefits. Considering making a career move? Want to get your application in to the right people? Here are some next steps for you to take: Visit REI Experiences Job Site Contact the Experiences team [Email osadmin@rei.com] Check out where REI Experiences operates: 2024-03-2938 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalSo You Want to Be a Climbing Instructor with PCIA So you want to be a Professional Climbing Instructors Association (PCIA) Certified Climbing Instructor? Join podcast host Candace Brendler and Jake Brunnquell, Programs Director for the Professional Climbing Instructors Association (PCIA) as they discuss how you can become a climbing instructor, with valuable insight from how long the process takes to pay and benefits. Considering making a career move? Want to get your application in to the right people? Here are some next steps for you to take: Check out the Professional Climbing Instructors Association (PCIA) Website See the PCIA Course Schedule Find out more abo...2024-03-0640 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalAdvancing the Outdoor Professional (Teaser)2024-02-2801 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalSo you want to be a Wilderness Medicine Instructor with WMA?So you want to be a Wilderness Medicine Instructor? Join our host Candace Brendler and Abby Rowe, President of Wilderness Medical Associates International, as they discuss how you can become a Wilderness Medicine Instructor with valuable insight from how long the process takes to pay and benefits. Considering making a career move? Want to get your application in to the right people? Here are some next steps for you to take: See the entire process to be come an instructor with WMA Check out WMA's Diversity Statement Visit WMA Website Con...2024-02-2132 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalSo You Want to be an Adaptive Sport Volunteer or InstructorSo you want to be an adaptive sport volunteer or instructor? Join our host, Candace Brendler, and Ann Marie Beresford, Executive Director at the Adaptive Sport Association (ASA) out of Durango, Colorado as they discuss requirements to volunteer and to become an instructor with ASA. Considering making a career move? Want to get your application in to the right people? Here are some next steps for you to take: Check out the Adaptive Sports Association Durango website Join the ASA team Become a winter program volunteer 2024-02-2124 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalSo You Want to Start a NonprofitSo you want to start a nonprofit? Join our host, Candace Brendler, and Xavier Duckett, Founder / Executive Director of Humble Hustle as they discuss how Xavier got his nonprofit started. The Humble Hustle Company began in 2015 as a way to provide resources and programs in an innovative and creative way to the community. The Humble Hustle project started with designing and producing t-shirts with one singular message: Keep Giving. They sold the tees at local events, festivals, and their own pop-up shops to increase awareness of our mission. Xavier began selling t-shirts to raise money for the or...2024-02-2025 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalSo You Want to Be an American Canoe Association InstructorSo you want to be a American Canoe Association Certified Instructor Trainer? Join our host, Candace Brendler, and Kelsey Bracewell, SEI Department Director at the American Canoe Association as they discuss how you can become a certified instructor trainer, with valuable insight from how long the process takes to pay and benefits. Considering making a career move? Want to get your application in to the right people? Here are some next steps for you to take: Check out the American Canoe Association website Learn the criteria and process for becoming an instructor trainer Read ACA's Diversity, Eq...2024-02-2037 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalSo You Want to Be a Challenge Course TrainerSo you want to be a… Challenge Course Trainer? Join Candace Brendler, Outdoor Action Program Coordinator at Princeton University and Chris Damboise, Director of Training and Team Development and Phil Brown, Senior Trainer for High 5 Adventure Learning Center as they discuss how you can become a Challenge Course Trainer, with valuable insight from how long the process takes to pay and benefits. Staff training plans and skill assessments can be found here Here is a google doc of Vertical Playpen podcast episodes listed by category Training pathways with specific hours and requirements for certifications 2024-02-1943 min
Advancing the Outdoor ProfessionalSo You Want to Work at Outward BoundSo you want to work for Outward Bound? Join our host Candace Brendler and Anne Morrison, Senior Director of Programs and Safety for the Northwest Outward Bound School as they discuss how you can work for Outward Bound in the field or on the admin side, with valuable insight from how long the process takes to pay and benefits. Check out the Northwest Outward Bound Careers & Employment page here! Interested in something in particular? Here are some quick links: Instructing Wilderness Courses Instructing at an Urban Center Working with At-Risk Youth Logistics Positions Internships Administrative Positions Re...2024-02-1938 min