Best Nation Elc Podcasts (2025)

1
The Power of Connection: Lessons from the Voyager Program 28:29

4d ago28:29

28:29

In this special live edition of The Buzz, host Yohanna Baez broadcasts from Jammin Java in Vienna, Virginia, hosting the signature Voyager Talks event. This episode highlights the ACT-IAC Voyagers program, a professional development program for rising leaders in government and industry. Yohanna interviews Andrew Powell, Chief Growth Officer of Stro…

1
The Experiential Learning Cycle (ELC) | Romy Alexandra 39:49

4d ago39:49

39:49

In this conversation, Romy Alexandra discusses the concept of experiential learning, sharing her personal journey and insights into how experiential education can transform traditional learning methods. She emphasizes the importance of engaging learners through experience, reflection, and action, and explores the experiential learning cycle and var…

1
The Buzz Live: Creativity and Collaboration at Voyager Talks 25:22

11d ago25:22

25:22

In this special live edition of The Buzz, host Yohanna Baez reports from Jamin Java in Vienna, Virginia, celebrating the ACT-IAC Voyagers program and its impact on government and industry leaders. The episode features an inspiring conversation with Colette Creech, Director of Growth Operations at Gunnison Consulting Group, discussing her team's pre…

1
Lighthouse Parenting | Dr. Kenneth Ginsburg 31:43

11d ago31:43

31:43

In this conversation, Phil and Dr. Kenneth Ginsburg discuss the concept of Lighthouse Parenting, a metaphor that emphasizes the importance of being a stable and guiding presence in a child's life. Dr. Ginsburg explains how this approach balances love and protection while allowing children to take healthy risks. They explore the role of adults in mo…

1
Empowering Communities: Christina Binhack and the ACT-IAC Gives Back Initiative 33:11

19d ago33:11

33:11

In this episode, we sit down with Christina Binhack, Director of Operations and HR at ACT-IAC, to dive into her background, experiences, and passion for nonprofit work. Christina shares her journey from the Midwest to the DMV area, her involvement with ACT-IAC, and her dedication to community service through the ACT-IAC Gives Back program. She disc…

1
Communication in the Classroom | Mike Anderson 37:44

18d ago37:44

37:44

In this episode, the conversation focuses on the importance of communication in education, featuring insights from Anne Louise Wagner, Ryan McCormick and Mike Anderson. They discuss the barriers to effective communication, the significance of modeling appropriate communication for students, and the creation of a safe learning environment. The speak…

1
From College to Career: A Talk with an Associates Graduate from IBM 18:18

26d ago18:18

18:18

In our final episode of the Associates graduate series, host Yohanna Baez interviews Lila Najmyar, a senior federal developer at IBM and a recent participant in the ACT-IAC Professional Development Associates Program. Lila shares her journey from college to IBM, the valuable experiences and lessons learned during the program, and how it has influen…

1
National FFA Organization (Future Farmers of America) | Dr. Travis Park 25:34

25d ago25:34

25:34

"Learning to do, doing to learn" Phil, alongside guest host Jamie Thibodeau, is joined by Dr. Travis Park to explore the National FFA Organization's mission and its connection to experiential education. Travis discusses the importance of agricultural education in developing leadership, personal growth, and career success among students. The discuss…

1
Building Networks and Skills: A Talk with an Associates Graduate from ABS Consulting 19:29

1M ago19:29

19:29

In this episode of The Buzz from ACT-IAC, host Yohanna Baez interviews Abby Cassell, a business development manager at ABS Consulting and an alumna of the ACT-IAC Professional Development Associates Program. Abby discusses her career journey from graduating college in 2020, navigating business development during the COVID-19 pandemic, to joining AB…

1
Deliberate Creative Teams | Dr. Amy Climer 29:39

1M ago29:39

29:39

In this conversation, Phil Brown interviews Amy Climer about her new book, 'Deliberate Creative Teams.' They discuss the importance of creativity in teams, the misconceptions surrounding creativity, and the role of education in stifling creative potential. Amy shares insights on how to facilitate creativity within teams, the concept of creative abr…

1
From Nursing to Business Operations: A Talk with an Associates Graduate from Akiak Holdings 31:20

1M ago31:20

31:20

In this episode of The Buzz from ACT IAC, host Yohanna Baez dives into the career journey of Olivia Henry, an early career professional who participated in the ACT-IAC Professional Development Associates Program. Olivia discusses her transition from nursing to a leadership role in business operations, fueled by the support and skills gained from th…

1
Master of Education (MEd) in Adventure Education | Springfield College | Angie Veatch and Ted France 23:19

1M ago23:19

23:19

Phil Brown, Angie Veach, and Ted France discuss the newly launched Masters of Education in Adventure Education program at Springfield College. They explore the intent behind creating the program, the importance of legitimacy in the field, and the need for a curriculum that respects and incorporates experiential learning. The discussion also touches…

1
From Courtside to Capitol Hill: Dir. of Professional Development Sarah Hughes on Career Transformation 36:19

2M ago36:19

36:19

We have a different host for this special episode of The Buzz, Pete Tseronis, founder of Dots and Bridges. He interviews Sarah Hughes, Director of Professional Development at ACT-IAC. They discuss Sarah's diverse career across industries, networking, mentorship, and career growth. Sarah shares insights from her journey, including her work with spor…

1
Service Learning | Cathryn Berger Kaye 25:07

2M ago25:07

25:07

Phil and Cathryn Berger Kaye explore the transformative power of service learning in education. Cathy defines service learning as a pedagogical approach that connects students' learning to real-world community needs, emphasizing the importance of purpose and engagement in the learning process. They discuss the barriers educators face in implementin…

1
Building Confidence and Connections: A Talk with an Associates Graduate from CGI 22:33

2M ago22:33

22:33

On our next episode of The Buzz from ACT-IAC, host Yohanna Baez interviews Paige Kowahl, a senior consultant at CGI Federal, about her experiences in the ACT-IAC Professional Development Associates Program. Paige shares her educational and career journey, which began with a pivot from chemistry to computer information systems, leading her to CGI. S…

1
Positive Reinforcement in the Classroom | Eugene Banks 25:10

2M ago25:10

25:10

In this engaging conversation, Phil and Eugene Banks explore the profound impact of education, the journey of becoming an educator, and the art of teaching. They discuss the importance of connection, positive reinforcement, and authentic engagement in the classroom, emphasizing that teaching is not just about content but about the context and relat…

1
From Intern to AI Sales: A Talk with an Associates Graduate from IBM 23:05

2M ago23:05

23:05

In this episode, Yohanna Baez hosts Mackenzie (Kenzie) Downes, a data and AI seller at IBM, to discuss her journey through the ACT-IAC Professional Development Associates Program. Kenzie shares her background, how she was inspired by her mother to pursue sales, and her experience working at IBM. She dives into her motivations for joining the ACT-IA…

1
Attribution Theory | Josh Fisher 24:58

2M ago24:58

24:58

Phil and Josh Fisher discuss attribution theory, a concept in social psychology that explains how individuals interpret the causes of events and behaviors. They explore its relevance in adventure education, emphasizing the importance of understanding internal and external attributions, common missteps participants make, and strategies for educators…

1
From Aviation to GovCon: A Talk with an Associates Graduate from Leidos 21:19

2M ago21:19

21:19

In this episode of The Buzz from ACT-IAC, host Yohanna Baez interviews Ryan Cloghessy, a capture manager at Leidos, about his journey through the ACT-IAC Professional Development Associates Program. They discuss Ryan's career trajectory, the impact of the program on his professional growth, and the valuable lessons and experiences he gained. Ryan s…

1
AEE APAC Conference 2025 Reflections 26:35

2M ago26:35

26:35

Phil (AEE Board President-Elect) and Sherry Bagley (AEE Executive Director) discuss their experiences at the AEE Conference in Hong Kong, focusing on the significance of the Asia Pacific region, lessons learned, the role of academia in experiential education, and the importance of engaging the next generation of educators. They share unique cultura…

1
Building Bridges in GovCon: A Talk with an Associates Graduate from the Wilco Group 29:25

2M ago29:25

29:25

In this episode of 'The Buzz from ACT-IAC,' host Yohanna Baez dives into the journeys of early career professionals in the ACT-IAC Professional Development Associates Program. Senior Digital Transformation Consultant John Rehm from the Wilco Group shares his story, from his communications background to his current role in federal contracting. John …

1
New V2X Technology at DOT with Grafton deButts and Brian Cronin 46:56

3M ago46:56

46:56

This week, The Buzz presents a conversation with Grafton deButts from Strongbridge LLC and the ACT-IAC Department of Transportation Federal Insights Exchange (FIE), as they sit down with Brian Cronin, the forward-thinking Director of the Intelligent Transportation Systems Joint Program Office at the U-S Department of Transportation. Together, they …

1
The History of Experiential Learning | Professor Colin Beard 33:04

3M ago33:04

33:04

"Education wasn't for certain people." In this conversation, Phil and Professor Colin Beard delve into the history and evolution of experiential learning, exploring its prehistory and the cognitive capacities that have shaped human learning. They discuss the limitations of traditional educational models and the importance of recognizing the contrib…

1
Welcome Our New Host: Yohanna Baez 5:54

3M ago5:54

5:54

Welcome Yohanna Baez: A Different Vision for The Buzz In this special episode of The Buzz, new host Yohanna Baez introduces herself and outlines her vision for the podcast's future. She pays tribute to previous host, Colin Larsen, and discusses her plans to explore broader perspectives, amplify diverse voices, and provide actionable insights. Yohan…

1
What Are Your Questions?..and more helpful phrases 13:33

3M ago13:33

13:33

Phil shares five key phrases that enhance his training and communication. He emphasizes the importance of preparation on the ground, reframing questions to encourage engagement, and fostering creativity through vague responses. He also discusses the value of embracing mistakes as learning opportunities and the significance of connecting through sha…

1
Understanding Rescue Plans | Loui McCurley 16:23

3M ago16:23

16:23

Phil is joined by Loui McCurley to discuss the essential components of effective rescue plans, emphasizing the importance of understanding the subject in distress, the need for timely response, and the implications of suspension trauma. Loui highlights the significance of training and preparedness in rescue scenarios, as well as the potential for g…

1
Navigating Fall Protection Standards | Loui McCurley 26:03

3M ago26:03

26:03

Phil is joined by Loui McCurley to discuss the intricacies of rope access and fall protection, emphasizing the importance of understanding various safety standards and the role they play in ensuring safety at heights. He highlights the differences between fall protection methods, the significance of training and competency, and the value of cross-i…

1
Brain Games and Who Smarted? Creating Engaging Learning Through Play | Jerry Kolber 22:06

4M ago22:06

22:06

Phil and Jerry Kolber (producer of the tv show Brain Games, and the podcast Who Smarted?) explore the intersection of play and education, sharing personal anecdotes and insights on how to make learning more engaging and relatable. They discuss the importance of memorable moments in life, the role of play in education, and the inspiration behind the…

1
The Reggio Emilia Approach and Adventure Education | Honor Woodrow 34:10

4M ago34:10

34:10

In this episode, guest host Anne Louise Wagner and Honor Woodrow (Winston Prouty Center) discuss the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education, emphasizing the importance of viewing children as capable and competent learners. They explore how the environment plays a crucial role in facilitating learning and how educators can create engagi…

1
Balancing Risk and Growth in Parkour | Toby Segar 35:46

4M ago35:46

35:46

In this engaging conversation, Phil and Toby Segar explore the themes of connection, passion, and the importance of experiential education. They discuss how sharing personal interests can foster deeper connections, the role of failure in learning, and the significance of vulnerability in adventure. The conversation also delves into the perception o…

1
Challenging Gender Roles In Outdoor Education | Dr. Steve Sassaman 29:12

4M ago29:12

29:12

* The conversation in this episode is focused on gender. We both acknowledge that gender identity exists on a spectrum but will be discussing gender specifically as the socialized binary of male and female. This conversation explores the challenges and dynamics of gender roles and expectations in outdoor education. Dr. Steve Sassaman shares persona…

1
Why Do Most Icebreakers Fail? | Mark Collard 32:53

5M ago32:53

32:53

In this conversation, Phil and Mark Collard (Playmeo) delve into the critical elements of effective icebreakers and team-building activities. They explore why many icebreakers fail, emphasizing the importance of fun, interaction, and creating a non-threatening environment. Mark shares his insights on the five key elements that contribute to success…

1
5 Tips to Ease Conference Presentation Nerves 13:03

5M ago13:03

13:03

In this episode, Phil reflects on his recent conference presentation experience, sharing five key strategies to ease anxiety and enhance effectiveness when presenting at workshops. He emphasizes the importance of engaging with attendees, choosing scalable activities, focusing on participants, planning effectively, and managing time during presentat…

1
High 5 Retreat 2024 | Guess the Staff 26:31

5M ago26:31

26:31

In this episode, Phil and Lisa engage in a fun guessing game where they explore memorable moments and guilty pleasures shared by the High 5 staff. This is an episode produced for our staff to listen to and play along while traveling to our annual retreat. Feel free to play along by downloading the scoresheet below. SCORESHEET - https://docs.google.…

1
The Experience of Learning | Professor Colin Beard 33:02

5M ago33:02

33:02

In this conversation, Phil and Professor Colin Beard delve into the evolving landscape of experiential learning, discussing its significance, challenges, and the role of educators. They explore the importance of understanding the learning experience, the impact of space and senses, and the necessity of bridging academic knowledge with practical app…

1
The Top 5 Props We Never Leave Home Without | Mark Collard 20:45

6M ago20:45

20:45

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 …

1
Creative Confidence and Why Arts Matter in Schools | Jo Lee 36:25

6M ago36:25

36:25

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 integrati…

1
Embracing Failure as a Learning Tool 28:12

6M ago28:12

28:12

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, …

1
Building a Career in Mountain Guiding | Dave Searle 41:47

6M ago41:47

41:47

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, a…

1
Turning Trauma into Empowerment | Brandon Peacock's Story 26:44

6M ago26:44

26:44

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 …

1
The Power of Unplanned Learning 11:49

7M ago11:49

11:49

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 str…

1
What is Flow? 24:43

7M ago24:43

24:43

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 understandin…

1
The Lesser Known History of Challenge Courses 37:07

7M ago37:07

37:07

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 to…

1
Phil's 5 Essential Skills for Every Belayer 19:22

8M ago19:22

19:22

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 tip…

1
Facilitation Nightmare! We Lost our Props! 57:22

8M ago57:22

57:22

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 …

1
Blurring the Line Between Fun and Purpose | Angus Firth 22:57

8M ago22:57

22:57

In this conversation, Phil and Angus Firth (Rapid Teams) discuss team building and team development in the context of outdoor education and experiential learning. They explore the challenges of blurring the line between fun, leadership, social events, and professional development. Angus shares his experience with designing and facilitating their Am…

1
Game Time! Wavelength Edition 32:46

9M ago32:46

32:46

In this episode, Phil, Sam, Lisa, Chris, and Anthony play a game called Wavelength. Each player takes turns as the guesser and asks the others to name something in a category that corresponds to a number on a scale. The players try to be on the same wavelength and guess the number correctly. Wavelength is a fun game that challenges players to think…

1
ICYMI: AI, Innovation, and the Future of Government with Alexis Bonnell 34:01

9M ago34:01

34:01

This week, The Buzz presents a session from our Vision 2030 event. In this opening keynote session, Alexis Bonnell, the Chief Information Officer and Director of the Digital Capabilities Directorate of the Air Force Research Laboratory shares her insights on how government agencies can leverage technology to drive innovation and better serve the pu…

1
Adventure Education DEFINED! 20:26

9M ago20:26

20:26

What is Adventure Education? In this episode Phil discusses the following; Adventure education promotes learning through adventure-centered experiences. Adventure education can include a wide variety of activities, both outdoor and indoor. Adventure education is an active process that requires active engagement from learners and instructors. Advent…

1
The Value of Adventure Education | Brian Lisson 31:47

9M ago31:47

31:47

In this conversation, Phil interviews Brian Lisson about his journey in the adventure education industry. They discuss various topics, including Brian's introduction to adventure education, the value of adventure education beyond the activities, the growth and future of the industry, and advice for emerging professionals. They also touch on the cha…

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