It’s In the Experience

Bridging Continents: Insights from the AEE APAC Conference 2025 in Hong Kong

In this special crossover episode, host Sherry Bagley and Phil Brown, host of Vertical Playpen, discuss their experiences at the AEE Conference in Hong Kong. They explore the growing impact of the Asia Pacific region in experiential education, key takeaways from the event, and the evolving role of academia in the field. Plus, they dive into the importance of engaging the next generation of educators and share personal stories from their trip, highlighting the power of relationships and meaningful connections in experiential learning.
 
It's in the Experience is produced by Association Briefings.

The Future of Adventure Therapy: Certification, Professionalization and Growth

In this episode, host Sherry Bagley sits down with Nick Magle-Haberek, co-owner of Adventure Therapist LLC and owner at Movemental Wellbeing, and Patrick McMillion, faculty member in Counseling and Counselor Education at Westminster University. Both guests serve on the AEE Certification Council and bring deep expertise and experience in adventure therapy. Together, they explore the importance of professional certifications like the Certified Clinical Adventure Therapist (CCAT) credential and the Certified Therapeutic Adventure Specialist (CTAS) credential, and how these certifications elevate the field. They also discuss the push for greater professionalization in the field, the impact of certification on practitioners and clients, and their visions for the future—including expanding community-based programs and more.
 
It's in the Experience is produced by Association Briefings.

Building Connections and Careers: The Impact of Regional Conferences

Host Sherry Bagley is joined by Christy Brodeur, Youth Learning Coordinator at Project Adventure, and Elyse Norton, Senior Coordinator of Youth and Adult Learning Programs at Project Adventure, who also serve as co-conveners of the AEE Northeast Regional Conference. Together, they share their unique career journeys into experiential education—Christy starting in summer camps and Elyse transitioning from music education. The conversation highlights the transformative benefits of regional conferences, including opportunities for networking, professional growth, and building a strong sense of community. They also delve into cherished traditions, unforgettable moments, and the vibrant, welcoming atmosphere that makes AEE events so impactful for attendees.
 
It's in the Experience is produced by Association Briefings. 

Cultivating Changemakers: Empowering Youth Through Outdoor Experiences

Join host Sherry Bagley for an inspiring conversation with Kymberly Lacrosse, executive director of Growing Greatness, along with team members Aaron Gaxiola and Lucia Perez. Together, they share how this grassroots organization in Watsonville, California, empowers youth and community members through outdoor adventures, leadership development, and transformative events—all offered free of charge. Hear personal stories of impact, memorable moments with participants, and how their collaborative approach is shaping confident, empowered changemakers. Tune in to explore the power of experiential learning and its role in building a stronger, more connected community.
 
It's in the Experience is produced by Association Briefings.

Leading the Way: Exploring Experiential Education and Mentorship

Join host Sherry Bagley as she chats with Dr. Brent Bell, an associate professor at the University of New Hampshire, and Paul Wolf, program director of outdoor leadership at Southwestern Community College, about their journeys into experiential education. They delve into the value of outdoor orientation programs, their roles in shaping leadership, and the challenges of incorporating experiential learning into today’s educational landscape.
 
It's in the Experience is produced by Association Briefings.

Universal Design and Accessibility: Expanding Inclusivity in Experiential Education

Join host Sherry Bagley as she sits down with Carla Hacker and Melanie Wills, MPH, from Experiential Systems, to explore the significance of universal design and accessibility in challenge courses. They emphasize the importance of fostering inclusive mindsets and practices to ensure these courses are accessible to individuals with disabilities. The discussion also delves into the evolving future of experiential education and its critical role in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the field.
 
It's in the Experience is produced by Association Briefings.

Mentorship and Inclusivity: Building Authentic Connections in Experiential Education

Join host Sherry Bagley as she engages in a dynamic conversation with Deidra Goodwin, founder and experiential educator at DGoodwin Experiential LLC, and Troy Wilkerson, Bucket Band Director for the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra and advocate for civic service and experiential education. Together, they explore the power of mentorship and inclusivity, emphasizing the value of authentic connections, lifelong learning, and the mutual benefits that mentorship offers to both mentors and mentees.
 
It's in the Experience is produced by Association Briefings.

Shaping the Future: Mentorship, Diversity, and Hands-On Learning in Experiential Education

Join host Sherry Bagley as she chats with Ed Maggart, an experiential educational consultant in North Carolina, and Sam Steiger, M.S., EMT-B, program coordinator in campus recreation at Minnesota State University Mankato. They share their personal experiences and perspectives on the importance of hands-on learning and personal growth. They chat about the role of mentorship, collaboration, and community in advancing experiential education. They also discuss the value of emerging professionals in shaping the future of AEE and the importance of diversity and inclusivity in experiential education.
 
It's in the Experience is produced by Association Briefings.

Research and Mentorship: Exploring the Impact of Nature in Experiential Education

Join host Sherry Bagley as she chats with Denise Mitten, PhD, an internationally recognized for her innovative scholarship in outdoor and environmental pedagogy, ethics, and gender, and Jill Overholt, associate professor of outdoor leadership at Warren Wilson College. This episode delves into the significance of research in experiential education, focusing on understanding program impacts and addressing biases. They explore the diverse benefits of nature, including physical, social, and spiritual aspects, and discuss the importance of nuanced approaches to these topics. The conversation also highlights the critical role of mentoring the next generation of experiential educators, underscoring the need for kindness, social and environmental stability, and connection in the field.

Overcoming Challenges: Creating Positive Experiences in Experiential Education

Join host Sherry Bagley as she chats with Zac and Celine Adair from the National Center for Outdoor & Adventure Education. Together, they share their experiences and insights on creating positive and empowering experiences for individuals of all ages. They discuss the challenges faced by outdoor education providers, including staffing, certification issues, and changing student attitudes, as well as the importance of collaboration to standardize basic technical skills and maintain full schedules year-round.