Doing The Thing
Doing The Thing
Podcast Description
Outdoor education is more than just teaching skills -- it's about resilience, leadership, the stories that shape us, and the people in our care. Doing The Thing dives into the experiences of outdoor educators from the front country all the way to the backcountry who have decided to travel a road less traveled to lead and teach others in the outdoors.
Join host Scott Boersma as he sits down with outdoor educators to uncover the stories that don't always make it into the trip reports.
Listen in and get inspired by the pople who make the outdoors their classroom.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast explores themes of resilience, leadership, and storytelling in outdoor education, featuring episodes that delve into personal journeys, such as a guest recounting their transition from a conventional job to leading outdoor expeditions, and another episode highlighting the complexities of building relationships while navigating adventurous lifestyles.

Outdoor education is more than just teaching skills — it’s about resilience, leadership, the stories that shape us, and the people in our care. Doing The Thing dives into the experiences of outdoor educators from the front country all the way to the backcountry who have decided to travel a road less traveled to lead and teach others in the outdoors.
Join host Scott Boersma as he sits down with outdoor educators to uncover the stories that don’t always make it into the trip reports.
Listen in and get inspired by the pople who make the outdoors their classroom.
In this episode of Doing the Thing podcast, host Scott Boersma welcomes Gail Shepherd, a wilderness leader and soil microbiology researcher, to discuss her journey in outdoor education. Gail shares her experiences facilitating canyoneering courses for teenagers, her background in family outdoor activities, and her educational adventures at Dartmouth and beyond. They delve into the challenges and rewards of outdoor leadership, the importance of getting 'systems down,' and the personal growth that comes from leading wilderness trips. Gail also offers insights into the complexities of the outdoor education industry, including the housing challenges faced by seasonal workers and the emotional labor involved in mentoring young people on outdoor expeditions. Tune in for a deep dive into wilderness skills, leadership, and the unique, sometimes humorous, aspects of life in the backcountry.

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