High 5 Adventure Learning Center

06/23/2026

What happens after the activity may be just as important as the activity itself.

In this episode of Vertical Playpen, Phil and Mike Martin discuss the importance of reflection and follow-up in experiential education, managing the unexpected as a facilitator, and how AI might support deeper learning and connection in the future.

Along the way, they share stories of transformative moments and explore what it means to take ownership within a group.

🎧 Listen here: https://ow.ly/3EzF50Zflzb
👀 Watch here: https://ow.ly/zCF450Zflzc

06/19/2026

At High 5, we believe meaningful learning and leadership begin with connection, respect, and a sense of community. As we honor Juneteenth today, we reflect on our shared responsibility to help create communities where every person is valued, every voice is heard, and every individual has the opportunity to thrive.

06/18/2026

We're looking for an Edge of Leadership Program Specialist!

This role works directly with students and educators to foster leadership, connection, and personal growth through experiential learning.

Know someone who'd be a great fit? Learn more and apply here 👉 https://ow.ly/ENzL50Zen1e

06/16/2026

What role does failure play in learning and growth?

In this episode of Vertical Playpen, Andrew Alexander King shares his journey from Detroit to mountaineering, surfing, and becoming an advocate for diversity in outdoor education. Along the way, he explores the power of experiential learning, reflection, resilience, and mentorship.

Listen now and be inspired by the lessons that happen beyond the classroom: https://ow.ly/kMAj50ZbTWm

06/15/2026

Congratulations to Evelyn Ormerod, our 2026 Edge of Leadership Scholarship recipient!

With the generous support of C&S Wholesale Grocers., each year, we award a scholarship to a graduating senior who embodies our core values: Connect, Empower, Lead.

Evelyn stood out for her adventurous spirit, dedication to personal growth, and commitment to helping others. As salutatorian of Keene High School, she will soon begin an exciting new chapter at MIT.

In a letter reflecting on her Edge of Leadership program experience, Evelyn shared how a conversation about visualization inspired her to picture herself attending MIT every day—and how that vision eventually became reality.

Her words remind us why this work matters: “Thank you for helping make my dreams come true before I even knew what those dreams were.”

Congratulations, Evelyn, on this well-deserved honor. We are proud to celebrate your achievements and look forward to all that lies ahead for you!

06/09/2026

What can the history of outdoor education teach us about learning today?

Hutch Hutchinson joins the podcast to discuss the evolution of , , and their impact on student growth.

🎧 Listen here: https://ow.ly/HZjF50Z89QX

06/04/2026

We're grateful to the Brattleboro Reformer for highlighting the impact of our Edge of Leadership program with Green Street School!

Through Edge of Leadership, students have opportunities to strengthen communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and leadership skills in ways that extend far beyond the classroom. Seeing young people grow in confidence and recognize the value of their unique contributions is at the heart of why we do this work.

Thank you to the educators, schools, and students who continue to trust us as partners in creating meaningful learning experiences.

Read the full article here:

BRATTLEBORO — Fifth graders at Green Street School are preparing to lead their elementary school next year.

06/02/2026

Strong cultures are built on small acts.

In this episode of Vertical Playpen, Phil and Jim dive into the concept of "sweeping the shed" from James Kerr's book, "Legacy," and explore how humility, service, and leading by example can shape teams, organizations, and communities.

From sports teams to businesses, the most impactful leaders often aren't the ones seeking recognition—they're the ones willing to do what needs to be done.

🎧 Tune in here: https://ow.ly/oryz50Z6Hi3

05/28/2026

In our new Edge of Leadership book, we explore how unexpected questions can transform the energy in a room, spark curiosity, lower anxiety, and open the door for meaningful conversation.

One example from the book: “How many cats are too many cats?” 🐱

What starts as laughter and debate can quickly evolve into deeper conversations about responsibility, leadership, connection, and community.

Now we want to hear from you:
👇 What absurd question would YOU ask to get people talking?

Get your copy of the Edge of Leadership book here: https://ow.ly/gjsG50Z5fYB

05/26/2026

How do you adapt activities and facilitation styles to meet the needs of different groups and environments?

In the latest Vertical Playpen episode, organizational development facilitator Mike Cardus, of Organization Development by Mike Cardus, shares practical insights on experiential learning, facilitation wisdom, and connecting more deeply with participants.

Tune in here: https://ow.ly/G9fp50Z4mEA