Mental Health and Risk Management in Experiential Education

In this episode, host Sherry Bagley talks with Margaret Kelso and Teresa Jennings, LCSW, from Cornerstone Safety Group. They share their journeys in experiential education and how their collaboration through Cornerstone combines a passion for mental health and risk management. The discussion explores their career paths, formative experiences, and the roles curiosity and emotional regulation play in effective education. Margaret and Teresa also reflect on how their partnership and shared values strengthen their work in creating safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environments.   It's in the Experience is produced by Association Briefings.

Host Sherry Bagley welcomes Mike Bingley, Director of Education at the Canadian Wildlife Federation, for an inspiring conversation about connecting people to nature through education and experience. Mike reflects on formative moments that shaped his passion for the outdoors and shares how programs like the Canadian Conservation Corps are empowering youth and communities to take action for wildlife. He also dives into the challenges of sustainable funding, the importance of inclusive partnerships, and the role of education in building a lasting culture of conservation.   It's in the Experience is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, host Sherry Bagley sits down with Jake Jacobs, executive director of Camp Henry, and Andrew Bobilya, professor and program director at the Outdoor Education graduate program at Western Carolina University. The two reflect on their intertwined journeys in experiential education, sharing stories of influential mentors, professional reconnections, and the role of community in shaping their careers. They explore the power of relationship-building—both personal and professional—and highlight why communities of practice and care matter more than ever. Along the way, Jake and Andrew offer advice for emerging leaders on building lasting collaborations, grounded in vulnerability, commitment, and a relationship-first mindset. From PhD programs to outdoor adventures, their conversation shows how shared experiences can create lifelong partnerships and meaningful impact.   It's in the Experience is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, host Sherry Bagley is joined by Mac Hall, M.A., and Heather Yazzie Campbell of Project Venture, an evidence-based, positive youth development program that integrates cultural and adventure-based education. Mac takes us back to the origins of the program, sharing the vision that inspired its creation, while Heather brings it to life with stories of activities ranging from risk management training to mindfulness practices. Together, they explore how Project Venture has expanded across the U.S. and into Jamaica and Canada, the power of community involvement, and why cultural relevance is at the heart of their work.   It's in the Experience is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, host Sherry Bagley is joined by Maurie Lung and Gary Stauffer for an in-depth conversation on their lifelong work in experiential education and adventure therapy. They share personal stories that shaped their careers, reflect on the power of compassion and curiosity in collaborative work, and discuss their experience co-authoring books and developing transformative programs. Together, they explore what it takes to create inclusive, supportive spaces, and how the field can evolve by amplifying diverse voices and breaking down systemic barriers.   It's in the Experience is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, host Sherry Bagley chats with Mary Breunig, PhD, and Terry Williams PhD, exploring the evolving landscape of experiential education. Terry shares insights from her work on transformational leadership and the role of family camps in fostering growth, while Mary highlights her focus on wellness, work-life balance, and the importance of sustainable practices in the field. Together, they reflect on decades of collaboration—engaging students in conferences, championing intergenerational learning, and nurturing reciprocal relationships. The discussion also explores the value of international partnerships, the role of activism, and the resilience needed to maintain hope and community in challenging times. At its heart, this episode celebrates connection, mentorship, and the transformative power of shared educational experiences.   It's in the Experience is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, host Sherry Bagley chats with Jen Stanchfield and Rick Curtis—two longtime leaders in the field—about the experiences, mentors, and meaningful books that helped shape their paths. Both recipients of prestigious awards from the Association for Experiential Education (AEE), Jen and Rick reflect on the evolution of the profession, the value of intentional practice, and the critical role of community in transformative learning. Whether you're new to experiential education or a seasoned practitioner, their insights, stories, and advice offer inspiration for every stage of your journey.   It's in the Experience is produced by Association Briefings.

In our season 3 premiere episode, host Sherry Bagley welcomes Callie Auman, assistant director for challenge course and team building at UNC Charlotte, and Robyn Handley-Lane, director of teen programs at the Dylan Jude Harrell Community Center. Together, they explore the dynamics of their cross-country partnership and how intentional collaboration fuels their work. The conversation dives into the power of vulnerability, the challenges and rewards of working remotely, and larger industry topics including inclusive gear design and the influence of cognitive psychology on experiential learning. Tune in to hear how strong, purpose-driven partnerships can elevate programs and create meaningful learning experiences.   It's in the Experience is produced by Association Briefings.

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.

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.