Advancing the Outdoor Professional

Join the Association of Outdoor Recreation and Education (AORE) as we dive into topics to help you advance your career in the outdoors. Thank you for our Advancing the Outdoor Professional jingle Demyan Hryciw!

So You Want to Bring Trauma-Informed Approaches to Your Work? 04/18/2025

So You Want to Be a Race Director? 04/07/2025

So 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 evolution of race directing from non-profit to for-profit entities, the challenges of creating welcoming spaces for diverse participants, and the high-stress nature of race management. Lacroix also highlights the need for better understanding between race directors and land managers regarding permits and regulations, advocating for a collaborative approach to ensure safe and inclusive outdoor events. Meet John John has been a full-time race director since March of 2014. Since then he has directed the most trail running events in Colorado history, and the 2nd most ultramarathon running event in the nation's history. He is certified as a Professional Race Director through Road Runners Club of America (RRCA), Risk Management for Outdoor Programming through internationally recognized Viristar, and Wilderness Firs Responder through Wilderness Medical Associates (WMA). As part of the mission, vision, and ethos of his series, John and his runners conduct numerous trail work days with land management partners throughout the year. To date, their efforts have included nearly 3,000 hours of volunteer service to trails over the last decade. John also volunteers his time on the Outside 285 Regional Partnership, the Policy Committee for the Coalition for Outdoor Access (COA), and was a former member of the Executive Committee of Colorado's Fix CRUS. Resources Human Potential Website Certifications: Risk Management for Outdoor Programs through Viristar: Professional Race Director Certification through RRCA: Non Profits/Coalitions John helps: Coalition for Outdoor Access: Fix CRUS: Outside 285: /episode/index/show/42a73be0-3b31-449e-9fae-332e9996bcb8/id/35483885

So You Want to Create Awesome Youth Leadership Development Programs? 03/31/2025

So 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. . Meet Elliot Elliot Drake-Maurer (he/him) is a person who stutters and has been teaching and leading in the outdoors for fifteen years. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Outdoor Education from Northland College. He has taught traditional survival skills, guided raft trips, and led backpacking expeditions in northern California, guided kayak tours on Lake Superior, and taught environmental education in public K-8 schools. He is currently the High School Leader Coordinator for the Oregon State University Extension Outdoor School, helping develop and improve teen leadership experiences in a statewide environmental education program. As an educator, Elliot seeks to help people discover a personal relationship with the earth and is interested in the intersections of identity, culture, and place in the field of outdoor education. Elliot resides in Corvallis, OR where he enjoys paddling on the Willamette River, cross-county skiing in the mountains, and playing Irish folk music. Resources Outdoor school website: General info about the program Outdoor School Explorer: Interactive map that allows you to see program metrics connected to county and school districts. Biennial Report: These reports outline what we do, how we do it, and how well we are doing it, as well as areas for growth and improvement. Self Evaluation Tools: There are three different tools, all accessible here: Cultural Responsiveness Self-Evaluation Tool (CRSET) Instructional Resource Self-Evaluation Tool (IRSET) Special Education and Accessibility Self-Evaluation Tool (SEASET) Critical Orientations: Indigenous Studies and Outdoor Education, by Dr. Spirit Brooks and Dr. Leilani Sabzalian. free, self-paced online course exploring Indigenous Cultural Appropriation and Bias in Outdoor Education /episode/index/show/42a73be0-3b31-449e-9fae-332e9996bcb8/id/35483970

So You Want to Operate a Mobile Wilderness Program? 03/27/2025

So You Want to Use Data Science to Create Accessible Environments? 03/24/2025

So 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 joining AORE for the 2025 Inclusivity in the Outdoors month. . Meet Courtney Dr. Courtney Schultz is the Executive Partner at OutGrown, a national nonprofit that for more than a decade has been dedicated to bridging the Baby Nature Gap by helping families with children aged 0–5 connect with nature. With extensive experience leading projects for local, state, and federal agencies, Dr. Schultz specializes in designing behavioral research that improves health outcomes through parks, natural landscapes, and outdoor recreation. Her work emphasizes inclusive design practices and systems thinking to enhance visitor experiences, focusing on underserved communities and ensuring that conservation and recreation support public health goals. Dr. Schultz is also the Executive Director of Health & Technology Partners, a social science research consultancy, and Adjunct Faculty for the University of Missouri. Dr. Schultz holds a Ph.D. in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management from NC State University, along with a BS and a MS in Parks and Recreation Management from the University of Missouri. Resources Learn more about Learn more about /episode/index/show/42a73be0-3b31-449e-9fae-332e9996bcb8/id/35776010

So You Want to Create Adaptive Recreation Opportunities? 03/18/2025

So 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. Joe will be joining AORE for the 2025 Inclusivity in the Outdoors month. . Meet Joe Joe is an avid outdoor adventurer whose life took a dramatic turn in 2010 when a speed flying accident left him as an incomplete C7 quadriplegic. Despite this challenge, Joe has continued to pursue his passions, becoming an experienced adaptive mountain biker, hiker, and paraglider. Before founding Dovetail, Joe served as Executive Director of Teton Adaptive in Jackson, WY, where he led initiatives supporting outdoor recreation for people with disabilities. Over the years, he has collaborated with trail crews, land management agencies, mountain bike festivals, resorts, and nonprofit organizations across the country, all focused on enhancing access and opportunities for those with disabilities. In addition to his work in outdoor recreation, Joe is a dedicated advocate for disability rights, with extensive knowledge of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Architectural Barriers Act (ABA). He is deeply involved in efforts to ensure that the disability community's voices are heard and that greater opportunities for inclusion and accessibility continue to grow. Resources Learn more about /episode/index/show/42a73be0-3b31-449e-9fae-332e9996bcb8/id/35676820

So You Want to Run an Urban Outdoor Experiential Nonprofit? 03/12/2025

So You Want to Be a Trail Professional? 02/07/2025

So 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 inclusivity in the industry, and the balance between passion and pay. The speakers discuss the various roles within trail work, the significance of training and education, and the ongoing efforts to create a more diverse workforce. They emphasize the rewarding nature of trail work, despite the challenges, and the importance of spreading awareness about career opportunities in this field. Meet Mike Mike Passo is the Executive Director of American Trails. Mike has also served as the Executive Director of the Professional Trailbuilders Association and the owner and operator of a sea kayak outfitter called Elakah Expeditions. Mike has led groups of all backgrounds, ages and abilities on sea kayak expeditions in the San Juan Islands of Washington, Vancouver Island in British Columbia, and in Glacier Bay, Alaska. Mike has conducted an extensive study of outdoor developed areas nationwide to determine the cost implications of construction according to proposed Americans with Disabilities Act standards, and a Congressional study on improving access to outdoor recreational activities on federal land. He has a B.S. in Recreation Resource Management from the University of Wisconsin—Madison, including three years’ coursework in Landscape Architecture and Civil Engineering. He has presented on Universal Design and Programming at several national conferences and served on the Board of Directors of American Trails since 2000. His love of the outdoors and his own paraplegia has given him a great interest in the creation of an accessible outdoor environment that does not ruin the characteristics and value of that environment. Meet Aaryn Aaryn Kay has worked with more than one hundred non-profits in almost every U.S. state and Canadian province, and she brings this non-profit management skill set and two decades of experience in the trail industry to her role as Executive Director of PTBA. Aaryn is also co-owner of Kay-Linn Enterprises, a PTBA member company. Prior to founding Kay-Linn in 2009, Aaryn coordinated trailbuilding and advocacy events nationwide, co-taught 150 weekend long trailbuilding seminars for volunteers and land managers in 32 states, instructed a graduate-level environmental education course at Duke University, and directed Duke’s Nicholas School of the Environment’s Community Outreach. Aaryn has a Masters of Environmental Management and a Masters of Arts in Teaching from Duke University with a focus on conservation biology and environmental education. Resources: Learn more about Learn more about Learn more about the /episode/index/show/42a73be0-3b31-449e-9fae-332e9996bcb8/id/35086800

So You Want to Manage a Climbing Wall? 01/23/2025

So You Want to Manage a Climbing Wall? Check out our first live recording of a podcast while at the 2024 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 emphasizes the importance of building inclusive partnerships, effective training for staff, and adapting programs to meet the needs of diverse student populations. The conversation also covers the logistics of running successful competitions, the collaboration between clubs and recreation programs, and the significance of safety training and risk management in climbing activities. Meet Trey Smith Trey Smith currently works as the Interim Assistant Director of Advenuture Programs at James Madison University. He oversees the climbing program, outdoor adventure trips, and the adventure based orientation programing. Prior to working in a college setting, Trey has worked as the director of an environmental education center, as a summer camp director, and as a guide. Meet Amber Smith Amber is a student at James Madison University, pursuing a B.S. in Kinesiology and Photography with a Pre-Athletic Training focus, is preparing to continue their education in JMU’s M.S. of Athletic Training program. Amber currently serves as the Adventure Manager/Route Setter and a Group Exercise Instructor at JMU UREC, as well as an Athletic Training Intern. Additionally, Amber works as an instructor at Sportrock Climbing Centers. A passionate climber, they are a member of the JMU Climbing Team and have previously held leadership roles as the JMU Club Climbing President and Social Chair. Meet Aidan O'Rourke Aidan O'Rourke is a senior engineering major at James Madison University. Since sophomore year, Aidan has worked for University Recreation in the Adventure Center and currently serves as the Routesetting Manager in his final year of college. An avid climber for the past seven years, Aidan has had the opportunity to further develop his skills in the outdoors through his work at the Adventure Center. /episode/index/show/42a73be0-3b31-449e-9fae-332e9996bcb8/id/34972155

So You Want to Be an Outdoor Leader? 01/06/2025

Changemakers and Trailblazers: The Importance of Intentional Leadership 12/02/2024

Changemakers and Trailblazers: The Outdoor Champion 11/15/2024

So You Want to Be a Leave No Trace Instructor? 11/04/2024

Changemakers and Trailblazers: Transformative Leadership Skills with Humanergy 10/28/2024

Changemakers and Trailblazers: Transformative Leadership Skills with Humanergy In 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: About David: David works with leaders who are engaged in transitions to new roles or new scope or need improved results. An expert facilitator, trainer and coach, David has worked for over twenty years with government, manufacturing, healthcare, law enforcement, technology and financial institutions. Originally from Leeds, England, David is a former Scotland Yard police officer. He is a graduate of Hendon Police Academy in London and an honors graduate of Lancaster University’s education program. He earned a master’s degree in organizational management and has been a Senior Fellow at the University of Maryland and an Instructor at Michigan State University. David has twice delivered at the International Leadership Association conference. He is co-author of 50 DOs for Everyday Leadership Lessons Learned the Hard Way (So You Don’t Have To), now in its second edition, and What Great Teams Do Great: How Ordinary People Accomplish the Extraordinary. In his spare time, David plays soccer and the guitar, both badly, in his opinion. He lives in Kalamazoo, Michigan with Launda and whichever of their four adult children happen by. In 2015 they completed an Atlantic crossing on a 39-foot sailboat, with the help of two fellow sailors, and look forward to more adventures at sea. /episode/index/show/42a73be0-3b31-449e-9fae-332e9996bcb8/id/33647992

Changemakers and Trailblazers: Outdoor Recreation Roundtable 10/02/2024

Changemakers and Trailblazers: JOREL - Not Superman’s Father! 08/14/2024

Changemakers 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 benefits of incorporating research into outdoor programs, such as advocating for the program and improving program quality. It also emphasizes the need for practitioners to utilize and contribute to the research in order to enhance the professionalism of the field. The conversation touches on topics like mental health, leadership development, and the inclusion of diverse perspectives in research. About Guy Guy is from the White Mountains of NH. He has lived in Maine, Africa, New York, and Pennsylvania before setting down in Harrisonburg, VA. Guy serves as a Lecturer at James Madison University. Guy graduated from Messiah College where he earned his undergraduate degree in Health and Physical Education. He completed a master’s degree in Sport and Recreation Management from JMU. He then worked for the outdoor program at the University of Maine for five years followed by three years at Hampshire College in Amherst, MA. Beyond rock and ice climbing Guy enjoys paddling moving water, riding a bicycle on trails, skiing with his heels free and chasing turkey and deer about the woods. Guy has completed the AMGA Rock Guide Course, is a Single Pitch Instructor, and has a Wilderness EMT credential. Resources JOREL website Editors /episode/index/show/42a73be0-3b31-449e-9fae-332e9996bcb8/id/32580077

Changemakers and Trailblazers: What You Need to Know About the EXPLORE Act 08/01/2024

So You Want to Host a Latino Conservation Week Event? 07/22/2024

So 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 and film screenings. LCW is community-driven, with events hosted by a mix of conservation nonprofits, community leaders, and volunteers. The focus of LCW is on access and equity, highlighting the importance of diverse representation in the conservation space. About Jessica As a first-generation Mexican American, Jessica feels naturally drawn to support immigrant communities in navigating the systems of a new country while striving for social equity. Jessica's family lived near Richmond, Virginia for several years before moving to rural Montpelier, Virginia; there, Jessica's love for nature continued to grow as did the gardens around her family home. Prior to joining the Hispanic Access team, Jessica nourished her love of the outdoors with a job at REI and worked toward social equity by partnering with local nonprofits serving the needs of immigrants. Projects she worked on included an initiative to provide interpreting services and a family literacy program. Most recently, Jessica worked with the U.S. Forest Service in Colorado through a rigorous internship program in which she engaged with partners to provide opportunities for underrepresented communities to enjoy and steward public lands. She is passionate about re-connecting communities with their innate relationship with nature. She graduated from George Mason University with a bachelor's degree in global affairs with concentrations in environment and international development. Resources [] /episode/index/show/42a73be0-3b31-449e-9fae-332e9996bcb8/id/32218277

So You Want to Work in Parks and Rec? 07/17/2024

So 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 explore opportunities in their own communities and build relationships with local agencies and organizations. He also discusses the competitive nature of the field and the varying salaries, but emphasizes the value of working in a field that aligns with one's passion. Anthony concludes by emphasizing the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in parks and recreation, and the role of parks in bringing communities together. About Anthony As an experienced Professional Development Manager, Anthony Iracki is dedicated to making a positive impact in the park and recreation industry. Based in Michigan, he's passionate about promoting equity, innovative programming, and community engagement. Anthony empowers professionals and organizations with cutting-edge education and training solutions, driving results and inspiring success. His proven track record of contributions to the growth and development of park and recreation professionals and agencies is a testament to his expertise and commitment to the industry. Anthony is a highly regarded speaker and writer in the park and recreation industry. He has spoken at numerous state and national conferences, sharing his expertise and innovative ideas. His writings have been published in state and national publications, showcasing his commitment to advancing the field. Anthony's impactful contributions as a speaker and writer have solidified his reputation as a thought leader, expanding his network within the industry and inspiring professionals nationwide. His multi-award-winning career includes the: 2020 NRPA Robert W. Crawford Young Professional of The Year Award 2020 Ferris State University Alumni Pacesetter 2019 American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration Externship 2018 WPRA Recreation Section Young Professional of The Year Award 2017 WPRA Presidents Award 2016 NRPA Young Professional Fellowship 2008 YMCA of The Capital Area Director of The Year Award Resources /episode/index/show/42a73be0-3b31-449e-9fae-332e9996bcb8/id/32190017

Changemakers and Trailblazers: Establishing the Center for Veterans Employment (CVEO) 07/01/2024

Changemakers and Trailblazers: The Confluence of States - Outdoor Recreation Offices Update 06/06/2024

So You Want to Start a Regional Bikepacking Community? 05/28/2024

Changemakers and Trailblazers: The Importance of In-Person Hands-On Learning in Wilderness Medicine 05/21/2024

Changemakers and Trailblazers: The Importance of In-Person Hands-On Learning in Wilderness Medicine In 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 Abby President, Wilderness Medical Associates International Abby Rowe is the president and owner of Wilderness Medical Associates International and a nationally registered Advanced EMT. Abby has been instructing for WMA International since 2018 and has 25 years of experience leading expeditions and teaching outdoor leadership and technical skills. She is also a member of and trainer for the Mount Desert Island Search and Rescue Team and is an avid sailor, climber, and skier. Abby holds a B.S. from Cornell University and an M.A. in Higher Education from Boston College. Meet Nadia CEO, Desert Mountain Medicine Nadia founded Desert Mountain Medicine (DMM) in 1998 under the premise that wilderness medicine education should not be limited to a traditional classroom. She is an active contributor to the field of wilderness medicine education both as an instructor and curriculum writer and as a founding member of the Wilderness Medicine Education Collaborative (WMEC), established in 2010. Nadia has worked as a guide, a SAR volunteer, an outdoor educator, an EMT, and an emergency room RN throughout the American West. Today, she devotes herself full-time to serving as DMM's CEO. Resources www.desertmountainmedicine.com www.wildmed.com www.wildmededucationcollaborative.org /episode/index/show/42a73be0-3b31-449e-9fae-332e9996bcb8/id/31404147

So You Want to Be an Inclusive Risk Manager? 05/21/2024

So 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. Meet Steve Smith Risk Management Consultant, Experiential Consulting, LLC Steve is the founder and lead consultant at Experiential Consulting, LLC - a risk management consultancy that focuses on serving outdoor and experiential education programs since 2008, including colleges, schools, conservation corps, wilderness therapy, and camp programs. A former classroom English teacher and Outward Bound instructor, Steve brings his background teaching indoors and outdoors into his consulting work. He served as risk management director for The Student Conservation Association for five years, overseeing risk for youth and adult programs across all 50 States. He is an avid wildlife photographer, sea kayaker, and enjoys exploring the wild lands from his home on Whidbey Island in WA State. Meet Christine Norton Professor, Texas State University School of Social Work Dr. Christine Lynn Norton is a Professor of Social Work at Texas State University. She is a Fulbright Scholar, as well as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Supervisor, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified Clinical Adventure Therapist, and Certified Experiential Therapist. Christine is an outdoor therapy researcher and practitioner and has dedicated her career to researching outdoor, experiential education and mental health interventions. Resources Beneficial Risks: The Evolution of Risk Management for Outdoor and Experiential Education Programs - Book Overview: Get a FREE preview of the Inclusive Risk Management Chapter: (form at bottom of page) Order Beneficial Risks and get FREE shipping by using code Near-Miss (valid for US only): SAMHSA’s Concept of Trauma and Guidance for a Trauma-Informed Approach: When it matters most: a trauma-informed, outdoor learning programme to support children’s wellbeing during COVID-19 and beyond: Trauma and resilience in outdoor therapy: /episode/index/show/42a73be0-3b31-449e-9fae-332e9996bcb8/id/31295302

So you want to WORK at an Inclusive Outdoor Outfitter: What to Look For and How to Prep in the Field 05/13/2024

So you want to WORK at an Inclusive Outdoor Outfitter: What to Look For and How to Prep in the Field What 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 accepting. If you're interested in being part of an organization that's a little more vibrant and inclusive, this podcast with host Candace Brendler and guests Maria Blevins and Emma Wharton will share what to look for in outdoor organizations. About Emma After spending many years trying to combine her love of rivers with her enthusiasm for working with young people, Emma found Grand Canyon Youth (GCY), an organization that does just that. Emma has a master’s in Social Work from the University of Washington with an emphasis on community development. Her undergraduate studies focused on negotiation, service-learning, and environmental education from the University of Utah. As a parent and foster parent to three girls, Emma loves to be on the river with her family. She worked as a river guide for over ten years and believes in the transformational power of a river trip. Emma is the first and only Executive Director of GCY and has been at the helm for 21 years. During her tenure GCY has grown from a few expeditions a year to over 60 expeditions annually and has connected over 12,000 youth from diverse backgrounds to the rivers and canyons of the Southwest. She loves hearing how alumni have continued to find their experiences on the river with GCY relevant to their daily lives. She is also committed to creating access for underrepresented groups on the river. About Maria Maria Blevins Ph.D. is an Associate Professor of communication at Utah Valley University. Her research focuses on conflict and organizational and environmental communication. Before becoming an academic, she was a whitewater rafting guide on the New, Gauley, and Snake Rivers she also served as the River Manager on the Madison River in Montana. She has a passion for helping people enjoy rivers and the outdoors. Her current research focuses on sexual harassment in the whitewater rafting industry. She is also one of the founding members of A-DASH, an anti-discrimination organization for river professionals through the River Management Society. She received her BS in Outdoor Recreation Management from the University of Maine and Machias, MA in Communication and a certificate in Alternative Dispute Resolution for Natural Resources from the University of Montana and her Ph.D. from the University of Utah. /episode/index/show/42a73be0-3b31-449e-9fae-332e9996bcb8/id/31276057

So you want to CREATE an Inclusive Outdoor Working Environment? 04/22/2024

So 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 Emily Ambrose, MS, ACC (she/hers), has dedicated her professional career and personal life to leadership development, training, facilitation, diversity, inclusion, and equity work. Currently and for over 15 years, Emily has been working at Colorado State University, is a member of the A-DASH Collaborative - addressing sexism and sexual assault in the outdoor culture, and raft guides in the Grand Canyon during the summer. She is a facilitator for the Office of Inclusive Excellence, a Safe Zone facilitator, owner of a Engage Coaching & Consulting, LLC, and taught for 14 years in the President's Leadership Program and Key Plus. Emily lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico & Fort Collins, Colorado and enjoys salsa dancing, her community, her partner, and her fur babies. Connect with About Jim Co-Founder & Business Development, Respect Outside In his almost forty-year career as a member of the outdoor recreation industry, Jim has been a raft guide for Mountain Travel-Sobek, developed marketing and retail training initiatives for brands such as Yakima Racks and Werner Paddles, owned a multi-unit retail specialty store, and consulted to manufacturers and retailers in the outdoor and action-sports areas. In his time in the industry, Jim has seen a number of game-changing initiatives implemented which have driven outdoor companies to the forefront of social awareness and worklife culture. These industry values are what first attracted him, and it is these values which he seeks to advance by creating real change in the ways people of different genders relate and interact while at work. Connect with Resources: /episode/index/show/42a73be0-3b31-449e-9fae-332e9996bcb8/id/30938198

So You Want to Manage Risk Outdoors? 04/12/2024

So You Want to Be a DEI Consultant? 04/09/2024

So You Want to Be a REI Guide 03/29/2024

So You Want to Be a Climbing Instructor with PCIA 03/06/2024

Advancing the Outdoor Professional

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