Relationship First: Building Lasting Collaborations in Experiential Education

In this episode, host Sherry Bagley sits down with Jake Jacobs, executive director of Camp Henry, and Andrew Bobilya, professor and program director at the Outdoor Education graduate program at Western Carolina University. The two reflect on their intertwined journeys in experiential education, sharing stories of influential mentors, professional reconnections, and the role of community in shaping their careers. They explore the power of relationship-building—both personal and professional—and highlight why communities of practice and care matter more than ever. Along the way, Jake and Andrew offer advice for emerging leaders on building lasting collaborations, grounded in vulnerability, commitment, and a relationship-first mindset. From PhD programs to outdoor adventures, their conversation shows how shared experiences can create lifelong partnerships and meaningful impact.

It's in the Experience is produced by Association Briefings.