Big Man in the Woods

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...

I think I can't take it anymore! I'm feeling burnt out from volunteering with Scouts and sacrificing time with my family! Join me as I share my struggles and how I'm finding my way back to the joy of helping young people.

Are you looking for ways to make your life as a Scout leader easier? If so, you're in the right place! In this Podcast, I'm going to share with you some ideas on how you can use technology to make your life as a Scout leader easier. From tracking your Scout's Badge progress to tracking them on a hike, there are many apps and software you can use as a Scout leader to make your life easi...

Looking for some weird Scout Leader camping hacks? Check out this Podcast to see for yourself! In this funny video, I explore some of the strangest and most bizarre Scout Leader camping hacks. From putting washing up liquid on pots to collecting belly button fluff, these hacks are sure to make your camping trips a little more exciting. Nobody knows the outdoors like a Scout Leader, and this video...

On a recent Live Stream, A Scout messaged to ask for tips about their Scout Investiture. I talk about how to deal with worries about being invested and share some tips about how to overcome these worries. If you're a Scout about to get Invested, then you might be feeling a lot of anxiety about the prospect of being investment. This video is for you! I'll talk about how to deal with worries...

Scouts The Musica l is coming to London, and I'm going to make sure you're there to see it! In this Podcast, I chat to one of the Shows Writers to find out what Scouts the Musical is all about. Scouts The Musical is going to be one of the most popular shows in London this Spring! In this Podcast, We find out what the show is all about and I also play 2 songs from the show to get you into t...

In this Podcast, I interview the CEO of Scouts UK, Matt Hyde . We discuss everything from the amazing things about Scouting to the current challenges faced by the organisation, to the not so nice side of Scouts. If you're interested in Scouting UK or just want to learn more about the organisation, this Podcast is a great place to start. By the end of this Podcast, you'll have a lot of insi...

In this Podcast, I interview the CEO of Scouts UK , Matt Hyde. We discuss everything from the amazing things about Scouting to the current challenges faced by the organisation, to the not so nice side of Scouts. If you're interested in Scouting UK or just want to learn more about the organisation, this Podcast is a great place to start. By the end of this Podcast, you'll have a lot of insi...

In this Podcast, I'm going to explore the importance of Scouts Own and what you need to know in order to have the most fun and enrich your Scouting experience. Scouts Own is one of the most unique aspects of Scouting and it's something that you should take advantage of at Scout camp. I'll explore the benefits of Scouts Own and explain why it's so important for your Scouting experie...

In this Podcast, I'm sharing my story about how I reacted when I received a complaint email from a scout parent. As a leader in the Scouting community, it's important for me to be able to handle complaints calmly and diplomatically. I hope this Podcast can help you in the same situation!

If you're finding it difficult to get more Scouts into your section, here's a great way to increase your members and get new young people into your section! In this Podcast, I'll show you how to create a fun and engaging attraction for your Scouts that will get them coming back time and time again.

As Scout leaders, are you noticing a decreased number of Scout Gateways when you go camping? On a recent trip to Pacaar Scout Campsite it left me wondering... are gateways fading away? Scouting is such a great way to spend summer camp, but sometimes it can be hard to remember all of the great experiences. That's where a camping journal comes in!  Writing down your scouting adventures in a cam...