Big Man in the Woods

🎭 I’ve Written a Musical About Scouts—Here’s the Soundtrack! 🎶Yes, you read that right—I’ve written a Scout-themed musical! In this video, I’m sharing the soundtrack, giving you a sneak peek at the songs that bring the adventure, fun, and spirit of Scouting to life. Whether you're a Scout leader, a Scout yourself, or just love a good musical, this is something you won’t want to miss!🔥 Expec...

Scout Leaders are you Looking for fun and engaging campfire games to keep your Scouts entertained? In this video, I’ll share four must-play campfire games that will have your Scouts laughing, thinking, and working together. These games are perfect for Scout camps, youth groups, and campfire gatherings. 🏕️ Games featured in this video: 1️⃣ I Went to the Shop – A memory and word association game wit...

This debate comes up time and time again in Scouting. In this video, I break down both sides of the argument, looking at what Scout Leaders are saying online, the financial impact on Scout Groups, and the legal considerations from the Charity Commission and HMRC. Many leaders feel they should pay like any other parent, while others believe a discount is a fair reward for their volunteering. But do...

🔥 **Scouting isn’t just about leaders in uniform!** In this episode, I chat with fellow Scout Leader and author **James Wood** about his new book, *An Hour a Week*. We dive into why he wrote it and the many different ways people can volunteer to keep a Scout group running—**from leaders on the front line to the behind-the-scenes heroes who make it all possible.** 📖 **In this episode, we cover:**...

Scout Leaders, I'm sure we've all been there—those days when work drains every ounce of energy, and the thought of leading Scouts feels like climbing a mountain. In this video, I share my honest experience of one of those tough nights: from battling exhaustion to facing a hyper Scout group. Despite it all, there's a heartfelt reminder from a fellow leader that helped me push through. W...

-Can parent helpers bring their own children to Scouts? In this video, I explore what Scouts UK's POR and insurance say about non-Scout kids attending meetings. Plus, practical tips for leaders! Being a Scout leader comes with lots of questions, and this one pops up often: Are parent helpers allowed to bring their own non-Scout children to meetings? I'll break down everything you need to k...

One of the toughest challenges as a Scout leader is dealing with parents who suddenly stop responding. What do you do when a Scout vanishes without notice, and emails, texts, and calls are left unanswered? In this video, I explore the frustrations of being ghosted by parents and share practical advice for handling these tricky situations. You'll learn about my "three-week rule" for managing non-re...

In this inspiring interview, I'm joined in the Scouting Shed with Leigh Porter, a dedicated Scout Leader from Fulham, who shares his passion for supporting Scouts with Special Educational Needs (SEN). As someone with ADHD, Leigh understands the challenges SEN children face and has made it his mission to help Scout leaders create more inclusive and engaging experiences for all. Leigh offers practic...

Join me for an insightful live stream with renowned Scout historian Colin Walker as we delve deep into the life and legacy of Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of Scouting. Who was the man behind the movement that changed the lives of millions worldwide? Together, we explore the truths, myths, and fascinating stories about BP, uncovering the history and values that continue to inspire Scouts today....

Companies urged to support volunteers by UK Chief Scout Dwayne Fields. Discover how dedicating annual leave for volunteering can boost happiness, productivity, and community impact. In this video, I chat about Dwayne Fields' call for 35 hours of volunteering leave per year, highlighting the benefits for individuals and organizations. However, I also discuss the negative effects for volunteers who...

🎄🎅 Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, Scout Leaders! 🎅🎄 Thank you for an incredible year of support here at Big Man in the Woods. Whether you've watched my videos, read my blogs, or just stopped by to say hello, your encouragement means the world to me. If you're new here, welcome! I'm Mark, a Scout leader in London, sharing tips, tricks, advice, and gear reviews to help you become the best...

What has been your Scouting highlight of the year? That’s our question of the week! We also catch up with Max to hear how his Scout Panto is coming along. Plus, we reflect on the incredible journey of seeing a shy, quiet Scout grow into a confident young person, leaving with their Gold Chief Scout Award. To wrap things up, we share what we’d all love for Father Christmas to bring us this Christmas...

As a Scout leader in 2024, I’ve learned valuable lessons about saying no, handling change in Scouting, and why Scouting isn’t for everyone. Fellow Scouter Jeremy asked me to reflect on my top three lessons this year—watch or even Listen as I share insights from my journey! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more tips and stories from the Scouting world!

In this episode, Mark and Max test their Scout knowledge with a brand-new game:  "How Well Do You Know the Scout Badges?"  Who will come out on top? 🏆 Mark also dives into his latest vlog post that's stirred up some heated debates among Scout Leaders— all about tattoos! Are they acceptable in Scouting? You decide! 💬 Meanwhile, Max gives a quick rundown of the latest Scout Leader software, sharin...

In this episode, I explore the question that many Scout leaders might be wondering: Can Scout leaders have tattoos? We dive into the guidelines around tattoos in Scouting, looking at how personal expression can be balanced with the expectations of respect for youth. While there may not be a specific rule in the POR (Policy, Organisation, and Rules), there are important considerations for Scout lea...

Podcast Highlights: -Bush Scout weekend recap -How to keep your CPD relevant and enjoyable -Creative ideas for Secret Santa gifts -Leveraging parents and experts to enhance badge programs -New Scout ambassadors: What do they bring to the table? This episode dives into how Scout leaders can stay relevant beyond mandatory training by exploring hobbies and CPD opportunities that enhance their Scoutin...

Union Flag Myths Busted: What Happens When a Flag Hits the Floor? Ever wondered what really happens if the Union Flag touches the ground? Is it disrespectful, or should it be burnt? In this video, we bust the myths surrounding flag etiquette, explaining why flags are sometimes lowered during parades and whether touching the ground is ever acceptable. Learn the truth behind common misconceptions ab...

In this week's episode of The Scout Leaders Podcast , we dive into how our Scout remembrance parades went. Max joined his local community event, while Mark tried something different by teaming up with a local Scout group at a park with a dedicated Scout war memorial plaque. Max posed an exciting Question of the Week : If you could design a new activity badge for your section, what would it be? Fro...

On this week's podcast, we cover some fun and thought-provoking topics! We start with a game to reveal what 15% of Scout leaders admit to wearing at camp 👀, and then dive into a debate: should patrols be single-sex or mixed? Tune in for insights, laughs, and maybe a few surprises along the way!

In this video, Mark & Max dive into an important topic for Scout leaders: how should we handle buying resources for our Scout groups? Should Scout leaders use their own personal money and then claim it back, or would it be better to use a prepaid bank card for expenses? We'll explore the pros and cons of both methods, from budgeting and convenience to potential reimbursement delays. Whether yo...

In this episode of the Scout Leaders Live Podcast, we start off with a fun and imaginative question from Max: If you could pick any person, dead or alive, to be your Scout Leader, who would you choose? Mark surprised us with his choices— Buddy Holly and Elvis Presley ! Who would you pick? Let us know in the comments! We also dive into what we’re planning for our Scouts this week. Mark is preparing...

In this Podcast, I said *Chat GBT* (not Chat GPT – my bad!) to the test by getting it to help plan an Autumn Scout Camp programme! I gave it feedback and made some tweaks along the way. Was the camp a success? Listen to find out how AI performed in creating an awesome camp experience for Scouts!"

In this week’s episode of the Scout Leaders Live Podcast, we tackle a growing issue: how can Scouts fundraise now that bag packing is no longer an option in many shops? We share some creative alternatives that can help your troop continue raising funds effectively. We also played a fun game where I revealed my top 3 favourite campfire recipes , so if you’re looking for new meal ideas on camp, you...

In this episode, Mark is joined by a new co-host, fellow Scout Leader Max. We share our thoughts on the appointment of Dwayne Fields as the UK’s new Chief Scout—was he the right choice? We also dive into the "Question of the Week": How strict are you with Scout uniforms at weekly meetings? Do you expect full uniform every time? Plus, I introduce Max to my favourite segment—the “Top 3” game! Don’t...

Navigating this common scenario in our scouting journey: the Scout Leader, originally set to lead the meeting, is either under the weather or caught up with work commitments. Left with all the prepared resources for the evening, it's time to put on our thinking caps and come up with a fresh, impromptu plan. Join me as I share strategies and ideas for those unexpected moments in scouting leader...