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It's in the Experience

The Association for Experiential Education brings you ‘It’s in the Experience’ – a podcast series produced by AEE featuring the varied voices of those using experiential education principles and methods. This conversational podcast offers an engaging and often humorous journey to learn about experiential education in its many forms and uses.

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Meet Your Host

sherry headshotSherry Bagley is the Executive Director of the Association for Experiential Education. In this role, she gets to assist in the elevation and expansion of experiential education by building an inclusive and accessible community; supporting research and programs; and presenting resources to public audiences. Her career path has taken some hard turns from driving tug boats in the Marshall Islands to catering weddings on the beach. She found her true calling when she began working in the experiential education field over 13 years ago. She can often be found out on or in the water swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, snorkeling, and scalloping. She lives in St. Petersburg, Florida in a 100-year-old house with her amazing husband, 2 great kids, 2 polite dogs, and 2 ridiculous cats. 

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Episodes

Episode 26: Award Winning Wisdom in Experiential Education with Jen Stanchfield & Rick Curtis

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.

Episode 1: Miles Apart In our inaugural episode, host Sherry Bagley sits down with Brian Croft, Assistant Director of Outdoor Education-Touch of Nature at Southern Illinois University and Rod Field, Founder and CEO at Higher Ground Group Australia. The three talk about the commonalities and differences in experiential education in the U.S. and Australia, their career journeys in the industry, and the importance of being involved with the AEE community. Oh, and there might even be discussions about Madonna and James Bond!  

Episode 2: Career Stages In this episode, host Sherry Bagley sits down with Callie Auman, Assistant Director for Challenge Course and Team Building at UNC Charlotte's Venture Outdoor Leadership program, and Brad Daniel, co-founder and executive director of 2nd Nature TREC in Black Mountain, NC. The three talk about the evolution of experiential education, career journeys, freedoms of owning a business, the benefits of working for a university, and the differences between environmental and experiential education. All of this AND a heated discussion over the best kind of cookies! 

Episode 3: Creating Leaders In this episode, host Sherry Bagley sits down with Jane Panicucci, owner and principal of the Active Learning Group, and Jay Zarr, co-owner of Story Tellers Travels and Imagine If a Mind, Body and Spirit Connections Company in Colorado. The three talk about getting involved in experiential education, career journeys, equipping leaders through experiential education, the importance of volunteering, industry challenges, and creating relationships. Oh, and we have a commonality discussion on whether or not ice cream should be considered a food group! 

Episode 4: Social Work and Adventure Therapy: Where They Fit in Experiential Education In this episode, host Sherry Bagley sits down with Dr. Anita Tucker, a professor at the University of New Hampshire and associate director of the Outdoor Behavioral Healthcare Center, and Tony Alvarez, owner of Alvarez Consulting LLC, formerly Adventures In Training Inc.. The three talk about their career journeys in social work and experiential education, the definition of adventure therapy and how it fits into experiential education, the importance of shared experiences, collaboratively writing books, and the answer the question: “what is the weirdest thing you’ve used as a prop during an initiative?”

In this episode, host Sherry Bagley, sits down with Esther Ayers, a dedicated researcher and advocate for mental health in Latinx communities, and Shoshanna Sumka, executive director of the Independent Schools Experiential Education Network (ISEEN). The three talk about their experience with experiential education and personal journeys in the field, the intersection of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging and experiential education, and the differences between researchers and practitioners.
In this episode, host Sherry Bagley, sits down with Bryn Lottig, co-founder of Kikori, and Christy Brock, executive director and founder of New Adventures Counseling. The three talk about business ownership, the importance of work-life balance, being involved with AEE’s Therapeutic Adventure Professional Group, their favorite reflection prompts, and their vision for experiential education. 
In this episode, host Sherry Bagley, sits down with Dr. Amy Climer, founder and CEO of Climer Consulting, and Mo Kappes, Assistant Director of Experiential Education at University of Wisconsin-Madison. The three talk about the AEE International Conference and what keeps them coming back year after year, what to look forward to at this year’s conference, challenges they’re facing in experiential education, and what they have learned from each other.  
 In this episode, host Sherry Bagley sits down with Joanna Bettmann Schaefer, a professor at the University of Utah College of Social Work, and W. Thomas Means, an assistant professor at University of Wisconsin La Crosse and director of Camp Brosius. The three talk about their career journeys in academia and doctoral work; the difference between wilderness, recreation and adventure therapy; finding research projects and associated researchers; and the importance of being connected in the experiential education community.  
Episode 9: Creating Community: Fostering Connection and Belonging through Experiential Education
In this episode, host Sherry Bagley sits down with Stephanie Speicher, an associate professor and the digital fluency faculty in residence at Weber State University, and Antonio Galván, founder, CEO, and senior trainer at Galika. The three talk about experiential training and development for organizations, creating community and a sense of belonging in a digital landscape, facilitating experiential education for adults, creating spaces for experiential ed, and geographic differences in the industry.  
In this episode, host Sherry Bagley sits down with Aaron Leonard and Fred Borroel to discuss their paths in experiential education, current triumphs and struggles, helping the helpers, client marketing efforts, and advice for the next generation of experiential educators. Aaron Leonard is a retired U.S. Army officer who now leads the therapeutic outdoor adventure program Another Summit at Guardian Revival, and is the founder and chair of New York’s Outdoor Rx Coalition. Fred Borroel formed RelateAbility, PLLC, where he specializes in relationship building services for families, colleagues, and peer groups and is dedicated to helping trauma survivors achieve relational goals and to helping trauma serving professionals balance self-care with their capacity to care for others.
Episode 11: The Evolving Industry -Exploring Experiential Education: Journeys, Passions, and Insights
In this episode, host Sherry Bagley sits down with Chris Ortiz, the associate director for the leadership development team and the program director for team development at Shaver's Creek Environmental Center, and Steve Smith, founder of Experiential Consulting LLC. The three share their unique journeys into experiential education, delve into their passionate pursuits within the field, discuss the evolving needs of the industry, and reminisce about some enlightening 'ah-ha' moments. 
Join host Sherry Bagley as she engages in a conversation with Kim Sacksteder, MSW, LISW-SV, CCAT, co-owner of Adventure Therapist, and José González, director of experiential education at The Overlake School in Redmond, WA. Delve into their personal journeys in experiential education, exploring their professional focuses and the paths that led them to become volunteer leaders and integral members of the AEE Accreditation Council. Discover the significance of accreditation for programs and gain insights into what the landscape of accreditation may look like a decade into the future.
Join host Sherry Bagley as she engages in a conversation with Rosanne Mistretta, assistant director for program development, SUNY NY Master Teacher Program, and Jeromy Slaby, science teacher and experiential programs coordinator at the Jewish Day School of Metropolitan Seattle. Together, they delve into their extensive careers in experiential education, sharing insights on their work focus, classroom practices, and guiding principles. Gain valuable advice for new teachers entering the realm of experiential education, learn about their commitment to community engagement, and discover the valuable lessons they've learned from each other along the way.
Join host Sherry Bagley as she chats with Sarah Gough, executive director for Play For Peace, and Marilyn Levin, development director at Play For Peace. They share their career journeys in experiential education, reflect on the impactful relationship between the Association for Experiential Education and Play for Peace, and discuss the significance of collaboration in advancing the industry. Don't miss their valuable advice for aspiring experiential educators and the insights they offer for future generations.
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.

Episode 16: Research & Mentorship

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.

Episode 17: Shaping the Future

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.

Episode 18: 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.

Episode 19: 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.

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.

ECThis Episode is sponsored by Experiential Consulting. Many programs like to say, “Safety is our top priority!” But, what does that really mean? And is it the same to staff, as it is to leadership or participants? Experiential Consulting is a Risk Management consultancy that uniquely serves outdoor and experiential education programs. Our team uses safety science and a century of combined experience, to help clients align their risk management strategies and systems with their organizational mission, environment, activities and population. Contact us at https://www.outdoorrisk.com/ to learn more about our inclusive, research based approach to risk management. 
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.
Episode 22: Building Connections and Careers Through 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.

Episode 23 | The Future of Adventure Therapy: Certification, Professionalization, & 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.

Episode 24 | Bridging Continents: Insights from the 2025 AEE APAC Region Conference in Hong Kong

Welcome to a special crossover episode of It’s in the Experience and Vertical Playpen! This episode features Sherry Bagley, the Host of It’s In the Experience, the Association for Experiential Education’s podcast. Sherry brings you this episode with Phil Brown, the host of Vertical Playpen, High 5’s podcast. Besides being an accomplished podcast host, Phil is a Senior Trainer at High 5 Adventures and is the Incoming President for the Association for Experiential Education’s Board of Directors. And it is this role that brought Sherry and Phil together for the 3rd Annual AEE Asia-Pacific Regional Conference hosted by BELL at The ISF Academy in Hong Kong. The conference was an incredible opportunity to connect with experiential educators from around the world, exchange ideas, and explore the latest innovations in the field. In this episode, Sherry and Phil share key takeaways, memorable moments, and reflections on how this experience will help shape future AEE endeavors.

Episode 25: Building Meaningful Collaborations in Experiential Education

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.