Advancing the Outdoor Professional

Candace Brendler & Jeannette Stawski
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Join the Association of Outdoor Recreation and Education (AORE) as we dive into topics to help you advance your career in the outdoors. Thank you for our Advancing the Outdoor Professional jingle Demyan Hryciw!

  1. So You Want to Manage Burnout and Traumatic Stress Injury

    12/15/2025

    So You Want to Manage Burnout and Traumatic Stress Injury

    Description In this episode of Advancing the Outdoor Professional, our host Candace Brendler speaks with Josie McKee, Director of Operations and Communications at Responder Alliance. The two discuss managing burnout and the effects of traumatic stress injuries. From climbing instructor and wilderness educator to search & rescue team member and resilience trainer, Josie shares her career journey and how her lived experience with stress injury shaped her work in resilience and stress management training. Tune in to learn about psychological first aid and how the stress continuum can help outdoor professionals recognize and manage stress injuries. Plus, learn more about AORE's partnership with Responder Alliance and the benefits it offers to our members.  Meet Josie Josie's career in the outdoor industry includes NOLS Wilderness Medicine Instructor, Search & Rescue Technician and long-time Outdoor Educator/Guide. Stress exposure throughout her career gave her personal insight into the importance of resilience training. Her experience sparked curiosity to learn more about the psychology of stress and resilience in order to help others through similar experiences. She now serves on the resilience team for Lander Search & Rescue and facilitates stress resilience training for Responder Alliance. Resources Learn more about Responder Alliance: https://www.responderalliance.com/  AORE members receive a 15% discount on Responder Alliance's online training courses: https://www.responderalliance.com/aore

    32 min
  2. So You Want to Work in a State Office of Outdoor Recreation

    12/08/2025

    So You Want to Work in a State Office of Outdoor Recreation

    In this episode, our host Candace Brendler chats with Karina Armijo, Director of the New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division, to explore what it's like to build and support outdoor recreation at the state level. Karina shares her unique career path—from graphic design and tourism marketing to leading outdoor recreation initiatives statewide—and how her deep connection to New Mexico's landscapes inspires her work. Their conversation digs into New Mexico's community-first approach to outdoor recreation, including the groundbreaking Outdoor Equity Fund and efforts to support local businesses and emerging workforce opportunities.  Tune in for an insightful look at how state offices of outdoor recreation are shaping economic opportunity, equitable access, and a thriving outdoor future—one community at a time. Meet Karina Karina Armijo is the Director of the New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division, where she advances the state's vision of ensuring all New Mexicans can access and enjoy the outdoors while growing the outdoor recreation economy in a sustainable and community-centered way. She leads initiatives that fund outdoor infrastructure, youth programming, and business development—strengthening the connection between public lands and economic opportunity. With more than 25 years of experience in tourism, marketing, and economic development, Karina previously served as the first Director of Marketing and Tourism for the Town of Taos, a historic mountain community in northern New Mexico known for its rich Indigenous and multicultural heritage. She has worked across sectors to elevate outdoor destinations, support local businesses, and promote the region's cultural and natural assets. Karina's path to this work is rooted in her own story. After moving to Taos 30 years ago, the outdoors became her sanctuary. From fly fishing, trail running, and skiing to collaborating with communities on trail systems and youth programs, her lived experience fuels a deep commitment to ensuring every New Mexican can benefit from time outside. Resources Learn more about the New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division: nmoutside.com

    33 min
  3. So You Want to Be Part of the Outdoor Recreation Workforce

    12/01/2025

    So You Want to Be Part of the Outdoor Recreation Workforce

    In this episode, Candace Brendler speaks with Chris Perkins, Vice President of Programs at the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, about the evolving landscape of the outdoor recreation workforce. Chris shares his winding career path—from field educator to national policy leader—and highlights why outdoor recreation is a growing and increasingly vital sector of the U.S. economy. The conversation explores some of the workforce challenges facing the industry, including skills development, equitable access, and housing in gateway communities. Tune in to gain insight into emerging solutions and collaborative initiatives taking shape to help strengthen and expand the outdoor recreation workforce.   About Chris Chris Perkins is Vice President of Programs at the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, where he works to promote the sustainable growth of the outdoor recreation economy. This work focuses on rural economic development through outdoor recreation, outdoor recreation infrastructure, state outdoor recreation advocacy, the outdoor recreation workforce, and building a more inclusive outdoor recreation community. Chris received a Masters in Environmental Management and Masters in Business Administration at the Yale School of the Environment (YSE) and Yale School of Management (SOM). Chris has also worked for the U.S. House of Representatives Natural Resources Committee, Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee.   Resources Learn more about the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable Build your outdoor career with the Workforce Hub Get involved with the Workforce Consortium Learn about the Nature and Health Alliance Connect with the ORR on LinkedIn

    37 min
  4. So You Want to Be on a Board of Directors?

    07/09/2025

    So You Want to Be on a Board of Directors?

    Join host Candace Brendler as she sits down with Morgan Costello, the chair of the Board of Directors for AORE. In this episode, they delve into the roles and responsibilities of board members, the difference between a working and strategic board, and Morgan's personal journey to leadership. Discover the importance of community, empowerment, and the impact of grassroots organizations in the outdoor industry.   About Morgan With a foundation in experiential outdoor education and a passion for access and equity, I support student leaders at Bucknell University and serve nationally as the president of the AORE. My goal is to help more people connect - with nature, each other, and themselves.   Resources Board Prospectus

    30 min
  5. So You Want to Bring Trauma-Informed Approaches to Your Work?

    04/18/2025

    So You Want to Bring Trauma-Informed Approaches to Your Work?

    In this conversation, Candace Brendler speaks with Elizabeth Allen, the Director of Impact and Learning at Justice Outside. They discuss the mission of Justice Outside, Elizabeth's career journey in trauma-informed practices, and the importance of creating inclusive outdoor experiences. Elizabeth shares insights into her daily work, the significance of trauma-informed care, and how to foster inclusivity within organizations. The conversation highlights the various pathways to a career in this field and concludes with resources for further learning. Elizabth will be joining AORE for the 2025 Inclusivity in the Outdoors month. You can learn more here. Meet Elizabeth  Elizabeth Allen, MA (She/Her), is the Director of Learning and Evaluation at Justice Outside. With 25+ years in behavioral health and non-profit youth development, she champions racial justice and equity in outdoor spaces, focusing on inclusivity for BIPOC and other underrepresented groups. Elizabeth enjoys cycling, hiking, photography and views her greatest achievement as remaining the "cool Auntie" to a 22, 20 and 17 year old.   Resources Learn more about Justice Outside: https://justiceoutside.org/

    39 min
  6. So You Want to Be a Race Director?

    04/07/2025

    So You Want to Be a Race Director?

    In this conversation, Candace Brendler interviews John Lacroix, the race director of the Human Potential Running Series, discussing the multifaceted role of a race director, the importance of risk management, community building through volunteerism, and the unique challenges of organizing trail running events. John shares insights into his career journey, the logistics involved in race planning, and the essential qualities and experiences needed to be a successful race director. In this conversation, John Lacroix discusses the unique mindset required for trail running and race directing, emphasizing the importance of community and inclusivity in the sport. He reflects on the evolution of race directing from non-profit to for-profit entities, the challenges of creating welcoming spaces for diverse participants, and the high-stress nature of race management. Lacroix also highlights the need for better understanding between race directors and land managers regarding permits and regulations, advocating for a collaborative approach to ensure safe and inclusive outdoor events.   Meet John John has been a full-time race director since March of 2014. Since then he has directed the most trail running events in Colorado history, and the 2nd most ultramarathon running event in the nation's history. He is certified as a Professional Race Director through Road Runners Club of America (RRCA), Risk Management for Outdoor Programming through internationally recognized Viristar, and Wilderness Firs Responder through Wilderness Medical Associates (WMA). As part of the mission, vision, and ethos of his series, John and his runners conduct numerous trail work days with land management partners throughout the year. To date, their efforts have included nearly 3,000 hours of volunteer service to trails over the last decade. John also volunteers his time on the Outside 285 Regional Partnership, the Policy Committee for the Coalition for Outdoor Access (COA), and was a former member of the Executive Committee of Colorado's Fix CRUS.   Resources Human Potential Website https://humanpotentialrunning.com/ Certifications: Risk Management for Outdoor Programs through Viristar: https://www.viristar.com/course/risk-management-for-outdoor-programs/ Professional Race Director Certification through RRCA: https://www.rrca.org/programs/race-director-certification/ Non Profits/Coalitions John helps: Coalition for Outdoor Access: https://accesstheoutdoors.com/ Fix CRUS: https://fixcrus.org/ Outside 285: https://outside285.com/

    41 min
  7. So You Want to Create Awesome Youth Leadership Development Programs?

    03/31/2025

    So You Want to Create Awesome Youth Leadership Development Programs?

    In this conversation, Candace Brendler speaks with Elliot Drake-Maurer, the High School Leader Coordinator for the Oregon State University Extension Outdoor School. They discuss the structure and impact of outdoor education programs, the role of high school leaders, and the importance of inclusivity in outdoor experiences. Elliot shares his career journey, the barriers faced by students, and the significance of listening to community needs. The conversation also touches on the upcoming AORE Inclusive Summit and the importance of professional development in outdoor education.   Elliot will be joining AORE for the 2025 Inclusivity in the Outdoors month. You can learn more here.   Meet Elliot Elliot Drake-Maurer (he/him) is a person who stutters and has been teaching and leading in the outdoors for fifteen years. He holds a bachelor's degree in Outdoor Education from Northland College. He has taught traditional survival skills, guided raft trips, and led backpacking expeditions in northern California, guided kayak tours on Lake Superior, and taught environmental education in public K-8 schools. He is currently the High School Leader Coordinator for the Oregon State University Extension Outdoor School, helping develop and improve teen leadership experiences in a statewide environmental education program. As an educator, Elliot seeks to help people discover a personal relationship with the earth and is interested in the intersections of identity, culture, and place in the field of outdoor education. Elliot resides in Corvallis, OR where he enjoys paddling on the Willamette River, cross-county skiing in the mountains, and playing Irish folk music.   Resources  Outdoor school website: https://extension.oregonstate.edu/outdoor-school General info about the program Outdoor School Explorer: https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/0fd351cf7f2e4d69aac240e9973e0dd7?org=OSUGISci Interactive map that allows you to see program metrics connected to county and school districts. Biennial Report: https://extension.oregonstate.edu/outdoor-school/annual-biennial-reports These reports outline what we do, how we do it, and how well we are doing it, as well as areas for growth and improvement. Self Evaluation Tools: There are three different tools, all accessible here: https://extension.oregonstate.edu/outdoor-school/self-evaluation-tools       Cultural Responsiveness Self-Evaluation Tool (CRSET)       Instructional Resource Self-Evaluation Tool (IRSET)       Special Education and Accessibility Self-Evaluation Tool (SEASET) Critical Orientations: Indigenous Studies and Outdoor Education, by Dr. Spirit Brooks and Dr. Leilani Sabzalian.https://workspace.oregonstate.edu/course/Critical-Orientations-Indigenous-Studies-and-Outdoor-Education free, self-paced online course exploring Indigenous Cultural Appropriation and Bias in Outdoor Education

    43 min
  8. So You Want to Operate a Mobile Wilderness Program?

    03/27/2025

    So You Want to Operate a Mobile Wilderness Program?

    In this conversation, Candace Brendler speaks with Micah Leinbach, the executive director of the BOAT Bus, about the innovative mobile wilderness program designed to make outdoor education more accessible. They discuss the importance of inclusion in outdoor recreation, the unique model of the BOAT Bus, and the challenges and strategies related to funding, insurance, and partnerships.   Micah shares insights from his career journey, the daily operations of the BOAT Bus, and the significance of collaboration in the outdoor education space. Micah discusses the importance of collaboration in outdoor education, the challenges and successes of building a nonprofit from scratch, and the critical need for inclusivity in outdoor programs. He emphasizes the value of understanding community needs, the role of reciprocity, and the importance of training future leaders in the outdoor space. The discussion also touches on the complexities of funding and the necessity of open communication in fostering an inclusive environment.   Micah will be joining AORE for the 2025 Inclusivity in the Outdoors month. You can learn more here.   Meet Micah Micah Leinbach has been running collaboratively-designed outdoor programs across organizations for over a decade, leading multiple teams in conducting this style of custom-built education program. He has supported non-profits, schools, municipalities, faith groups, home school families, and more in building - and then supporting the operations of - trips that expand on the work they already do. He has worked as a wilderness guide for over a decade, and is a Wilderness EMT, Level 3 Leave No Trace Instructor, and experienced coach and facilitator.       Resources Learn more about the BOAT Bus

    48 min
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Join the Association of Outdoor Recreation and Education (AORE) as we dive into topics to help you advance your career in the outdoors. Thank you for our Advancing the Outdoor Professional jingle Demyan Hryciw!

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