ScouterStan - Scout Leader Podcast

Just over the words, Boy Scouts of America or Scouts BSA on the right pocket is a space reserved for the interpreter strip. All too often we forget that the Scouting movement is international. It's important that scouts and scouters who are bilingual display what language they are proficient in. This is a way of living up to being courteous and friendly. It also helps keep with the scout oath to help others at all times by being that interpreter that helps them understand what is going on in scouting. Today's technology can subtitle using closed captions on almost any video in any language. Almost every smartphone has an interpreter feature. Google can translate entire websites into a language that the user may be more comfortable reading. The interpreter strip is often forgotten as a good turn in scouting to help others.

Eagle Scouts are rare in the world. They represent individuals who have dedicated themselves to live their lives according to the Scout Oath and Law. Many of today's leaders are Eagle Scouts living fulfilling lives of leadership throughout our community. Scout leaders should dedicate themselves to promoting this achievement by mentoring young people towards it. Now that the first class of female Eagle Scouts has been officially recognized by Scouting BSA. The final barrier to young people is no longer an obstacle. Scouting should always be for all young people to participate in. Leaders all over our country need to rededicate themselves to young Scouts who are looking toward the mountain peak of Eagle Scout. Becoming an Eagle Scout mentor is a good place to start. “Be The Change”

On the 100th Anniversary of Scouting in America (2010), the Centennial series commemorated this incredible event. The BSA reintroduced 4 discontinued merit badges with gold borders. Also introduced were Cub Scout and Scout Troop 2010 Centennial ranks many camps and council celebrations also commemorated this Centennial event. Join ScouterStan as he dives into the commemorative series of badges. This also includes the Centennial Membership Ring (donut) and other council specialty patches.

Discover the unofficial top five tips for den leaders to get the most out of their leadership experience. These 5 tips could be for all unit leaders whether they are in a pack, troop, crew, or ship. We dive into the necessity of being trained and not reinventing the wheel. Being the example and not the exception and what critical meetings are most important to attend. Most leaders only have a short time (less than five years). Making fantastic memories and keeping them for whenever you need them. Making a real difference in the world by helping young people learn and adopt the Scout Oath and Law.

Most unit leaders may not be aware of the structure of their District and how important it is. The District is a critical part of your Council in its direct operations with all Scouting units in your area. The District Committee has 4 standard functions that directly relate to all Packs, Troops, Crews, Ships, and Posts. The District Committee Chair and District Commissioner work directly with the District Executives to manage all of the departments within the scope of leading activities within your District. A basic understanding of how this structure works for you is essential to understanding what is happening within your District.

We take you on a journey to explore the exciting world of patch trading at a Boy Scout summer camp. If you're a Boy Scout enthusiast or collector, you won't want to miss this! We show you the ins and outs of the patch trading scene at camp, from the different types of patches to the friendly competition between scouts. We even get up close and personal with some of the rarest and most sought-after patches in the community. You'll also learn some tips and tricks to make the most out of your patch-trading experience at Boy Scout summer camp. We cover everything from etiquette to organization and bargaining skills, so you can trade like a pro. So sit back, relax, and join us on this exciting patch-trading adventure. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just getting started, you're sure to have a blast. Happy patch trading!

Being a new Assistant Scoutmaster can be a challenging but rewarding experience, and it's important to “be prepared” for the role. We'll cover everything from building relationships with your scouts and fellow leaders to helping the youth plan meetings and outings, to effectively managing time. Getting to know them on a personal level, being approachable, and actively listening to their concerns and ideas. Be organized and plan ahead. Develop a strong understanding of the Scout Oath and Law. Lead by example and inspire your scouts to be the best versions of themselves. Foster a positive troop culture. Be proficient in basic outdoor skills. Communicate effectively with youth leaders and parents. Encourage your scouts to take an active role in planning and leading troop activities. Prioritize safety and risk management. Get feedback from your scouts and fellow leaders, and more.

Many non-scouters believe that Scouting is militaristic. Almost to the point of an “urban legend”. This rumor that somehow our peace movement is actually militarily oriented. Baden-Powell the founder of Scouting spend most of his professional career in the military. As the Scouting movement was developing it became more of a peace movement throughout the world. Citizenship and one's duty to the country are regarded as institutional morals. In the past, the Boy Scouts of America have been asked to participate in campaigns for volunteer citizens. Retaining the principles and beliefs of the scout movement as a peaceful organization.

So many units fail when it comes time to replace a critical leader. Unlocking the secret of mentoring replacements is a critical skill that all leaders should have. Adult leaders need to work with the youth leadership to do the same. All too often we rely on friends to fill the space we leave behind. Many times the unit completely folds, trusting that others will step up. Mentoring your replacement shows a good example to other leaders to think of the future. Making sure that leadership candidates have the ability, availability, and capability to take over critical roles within your unit. Having a plan in place helps us “Be Prepared” for the eventual progression of youth and adult leadership.

Proclaimed to be the book that started the Scouting movement in the world. Originally was an instruction manual for the military. This little book of the 20th century became extremely popular in England with the postindustrial youth. Baden-Powell struggled to get the book published as he was in the midst of a siege in the little town of Mafeking (today Mafikeng) South Africa in the Second Boer War. Many scout leaders have heard of this book but few have read this iconic text. Here are some fantastic and lesser-known facts about this little book that started the World Organization of the Scouting Movement.

This podcast dispels many of the mysteries about Wilderness First Aid (WFA) training & CPR/AED Certification. Many scout leaders that are heading off to high adventure are required to take this training. This first aid training is recommended for scout leaders heading off to remote locations where rapid first aid transport is not readily available. Many councils have opportunities throughout the year for training at their scout camp. They are organizations that can also do the training outside of your counsel. It's recommended that you contact your council about this training and alternatives.

The Scout uniform is part of the methods of Scouting. As a uniformed organization, we transform our daily life into being a Scout. Boys & Girls in uniform are Scouts, not kids. There are places to be in uniform and places where the uniform would be inappropriate. The dress uniform, uniform, and activity uniform (class B) are explained. Regular uniform at scout meetings, training, and events. Full dress uniform at ceremonies and Court of Honor (COH). Activity or “Class B” for physical activities or clothing hazards situations.

The history of the Den Chief is fascinating. Ernest Thompson Seton had the original idea from woodcraft indenes. The newly formed BSA just wasn’t ready for the new Cub Scouts. James West persuaded the founders to let Scouting get established before starting this new part. Baden-Powell published his Wolf Cubs handbook based on Rudyard Kipling's Jungle Book. Cub Scout Packs started in 1930 with the Den Chief running the Den. Den Mothers were brought in to help but it soon became clear that they were in charge. Den Chiefs still are a critical part of the Cub Scout program. Den Leaders need them.

We hear about people getting “kicked out of Scouting” all the time. Many famous people make this fashionable claim. The reality is that not many scouts are asked to leave their unit. Most of the time with adults it's because of Youth Protection Training (YPT) violations or not passing the required background checks. In this video, we talk about this serious matter of membership. The unit's membership is controlled by the charter organization. Charter organizations take this responsibility extremely seriously.

A properly running Troop has a regular Patrol Leader Council (PLC) every month. Many Packs, Troops, and Crews could benefit from a similar meeting with the adult leadership. The Scout Leader Council (SLC) is a monthly meeting of all Scout-Facing and Back-Stage adult leaders within the unit. Subjects at the meeting will cover the support of the unit functions that the adult leadership is responsible for. Patrol Assignments, Leader Training, Fundraising, Scheduling, Advancement, program, and more. All successful units have regular Scout Leader Council meetings.

Looking for a place to belong as an “Aged-out” Scout? Check out the College Scouter Reserve! This Scouting position is perfect for Scouts over 18 who are looking for an adult leader position within their unit. You'll have access to Scouts BSA's vast resources, including camps and summer camp, as well as all the benefits that come with being a part of your scout unit. If you're looking for a place to belong, the College Scouter Reserve is the perfect place for you while away at school!

The International Souters Award recognizes Scouters that have participated in and promoted international Scouting. Often adult leaders don't realize when they have actually achieved this award. Looking over the requirements and completing 6 in any 3 of the 5 categories complete this award. This square knot identifies Scout Leaders with international Scouting experience. As members of the World Organization of the Scouting Movement (WOSM), this is recognition of leadership within international Scouting. This video reviews all of the requirements to help adult leaders identify how close they are to achieving this award.

Scouting is deeply tied to STEM while working with America's youth. We need to recognize youth that chooses to fulfill the requirements of STEM within Scouting. The Nova award and the Supernova are based on excellence within a STEM discipline. Scouts that achieve this high award should be recognized and celebrated. This is not new it's just that we now recognize that everything we do in Scouting has a STEM component. Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, Venture, and Sea Scouts have their own STEM requirements. Scout leaders can easily incorporate the program into existing plans. This video we'll help you understand some of the basics.

The New Member Coordinator for any unit is a critical role in any successful Scouting unit. This underutilized position needs to be a critical part of your unit planning. As a vital member of the recruitment team, the New Member Coordinator (NMC) oversees many tasks that include many of the adults that are often not utilized. The parents are often left out of the loop unless they get involved directly. This also leads to the complacency of the parents as they have no link to the unit other than their scout. The New Member Coordinator fills this gap and helps parents get more involved and stay informed.

Do you have new Scouts going to Summer Camp? This is the podcast for you! In this episode, we'll be discussing everything you need to know about first-year Scouting at Summer Camp. If you're looking for information about Summer Camp programs, this podcast is for you! We'll discuss everything from first-year scout programs to merit badges for First Class Scouts and beyond. We hope you enjoy this podcast and that it helps you get started on your Scouting journey! If you have any questions or comments, feel free to let me know!

In this podcast, I'm sharing a surprising truth about “aging out” in the Order of the Arrow. In short, it's not as bad as you think! You may have heard that you'll age out of the Order of the Arrow if you're over 18 with a Troop membership. But in this video, I'm sharing a surprising truth about aging out. In reality, it's not as bad as you think! After watching this video, you'll have a better understanding of the Order of the Arrow and you'll be less likely to feel anxiety or disappointment about your position in the Order of the Arrow. Watch this video and learn the surprising truth about aging out! Tune in and learn something new about the order of the arrow!

There is a debate about who is 3rd in command in youth leadership. Many maintain it’s the Troop Scribe while others put forth a good case for other positions. The Troop Scribe is part of the Patrol Leaders Council (PLC) but has no vote in decisions. The Troop Scribe also reports and works with the Advancement Team and the Troop Finance Subcommittee. If both the Senior Patrol Leader (SPL), and the Assistant Senior Patrol Leader (ASPL) are out or unavailable the Troop Scribe is the only youth that is aware of needed information.

Discover some of the fascinating histories of the tribe of Mic-O-say. One of the early honor societies of the Boy Scouts of America. Most Scouters know of the Order of the Arrow (OA) as the official Honor Society of the BSA. The history of Mic-O-say is fascinating and is very local to just a handful of councils to this day. Starting in 1925 at camp Brinton of the pony express council focused on Indian lore. Ernest Seaton (one of the founding fathers of the BSA and an influencer of its structure) and his organization of the Woodcraft Indians influenced young people at the time. This naturally carried over too many of the members of the newly formed BSA.

⚠️ Correction: ScouterStan could not find the correct pronunciation of the word Mic-O-Say. Therout the videos and podcasts he used "MicKuSay", "MikeOoSAy", or “McKooSAy”. This was not intentional or in any disrespectful way a commentary. ScouterStan just didn't know how to say it correctly.

Many outside of Scouting don't know why we would volunteer our time to be adult leaders. We believe in helping young people discover Scouting Values and incorporate them into their life choices. There are many rewards in helping young people instill Scouting Values of the Scout Oath & Law into their lives. It is amazing how many Scout Leaders find reward in all of the wonderful discoveries of Scout Skills. Scout Leaders often adopt these into their own lives and live by the example. Scout Leaders find a greater meaning by planting the acorn of Scouting for a brighter and greater future.

Many leaders mistakenly think that Square Knot is only for the adult uniform. Youth are not restricted from wearing square knots that they have been awarded. Most square knot patches are for adult leadership. There are some square knot badges that youth are awarded and should wear on their uniform.

In this podcast, we're going to discuss the basic training requirements for camping for all Scout Leaders. As a Scout Leader, you're undoubtedly passionate about your program and the outdoors. But before you can enjoy scout camping, you need to be familiar with the basics. In this podcast, we'll cover the essential training requirements you need to know about Scouting camping, from Cub Scout Sleepovers to High Adventure treks in the mountains. By the time you're done, you'll know what it takes to hit the trails!

The Order of the Arrow (OA) is Scoutings Honor Society and has many different positions. two of these positions are within the unit. Most Scouters know about the Youth OA Representative position. There is also an adult position as an OA Representative that is very similar to an advisor to this youth position. This is a great way to give service back to the unit while representing the OA.

A patch that is on every uniform is the council shoulder patch. Originally the scout uniform didn't have a place for the council strip. The CSP that everyone is familiar with today was not officially adopted until 1970. There have been many different types of council identification on the uniform over the years. Many of the shapes of the modern patch have many historic examples. There have been many variations of the council strip commemorating everything in scouting including historic monuments and events, space, and the military. This is a very collectible type of patch that has even found its way to the National Jamboree.

A lot of adults have no clue about their role within the order of the arrow. It's important to remember that they are no longer running things or actively engaged in running the lodge or chapter. Adult Scouters should look to becoming more of a mentor and advise youth leadership. Being an active role model for the youth is important to inspire tomorrow's leaders. Working as an advisor for any aspect of your chapter or lodge is a worthwhile endeavor.

Starting up a new Scouting unit is important to giving America's youth the opportunity of a Scouting experience. Many critical things need to be done to make this happen. One of the most important is a Chartered organization that needs to be receptive and willing to sign for the unit. Many units failed to recharter and charter organizations have equipment already in place for a new unit. The Key 3 need to be considered next. The Charter Organization Rep, unit leader (Cubmaster, Scoutmaster, etc.), and Committee Chair are required in addition to two more. The new unit will need to have a Unit Commissioner assigned. It is recommended that you have a minimum of 10 youth join up with the new unit to establish proper operations. Missing any one of these positions will cause the unit to fail before it starts.

Every Scout deserves a trained leader. The more training you get the better the adult leader you become. The first step in leadership is training. Only when you're fully trained in your position is award recognition possible.  Time and dedication are also needed to stand out from other leaders. Recognizing leaders is a good way of letting them know you value their time and effort. Depending on the location of the scout service would depend on the type of award recognition. Nominations for award recognition are peer-based. It’s your responsibility to nominate worthy candidates to the respective selection committees.

There is no such thing as a recruiting season. Scout units that fail often make this mistake. It is important to understand that scout units need a constant flow of new youth recruits. Here is a way to recruit new scouts year-round. The development of a clear recruiting program is critical to success. Each season has its challenges and recruitment goals should be set. Once you have established a recruitment program it can be repeated every year. It's also important to be ready for the new scouts coming to your unit. Make sure that your website is up to date with current information. Make sure that you have the tools to enroll new scouts when they show up at your events. Youth recruitment should be the focus. Parents can come along later as leadership is needed. Make sure that you're ready when they are and you will have a good recruitment program.

A very popular answer to this question is YES! Many new adult leaders were once involved in the Order of the Arrow. Now that they are back in scouting they are wondering how to reestablish their membership. Hopefully, this video helps Scouters get back involved with their lodge. Membership in the order of the arrow is permanent regardless of where or when you did ordeal or brotherhood. It's just a matter of re-establishing the connection. All adult leaders that have been in the Order of the Arrow can reestablish membership.  This includes Cubmasters, Den Leaders, Committee Chair, Charter Organization Representative, etc. It's recommended that you commit to getting involved in your lodge and chapter as much as you possibly can.

The National Jamboree from 1935 to the present day has been an exceptional experience for young people throughout the United States. The history of the National Jamboree is displayed within its patches and neckerchiefs. We explore many of the phenomenal imagery used within its beautiful and diverse images. There was a time in the United States when the Jamboree moved from east to west. Then found a home in Virginia and now is to be held at the Summit in West Virginia. Plans are on the way for the next Jamboree in July of 2023. Scouts from all over the United States are getting ready to attend.

Join ScouterStan as he kicks off the 6th season. Scout leaders are a unique group of people that are dedicated to a higher purpose for our American youth. Today scout leader is faced with a lot of competition for the attention of young people. Scouting provides an opportunity unlike anything else. Scout leaders need to keep themselves motivated so they can provide guidance for their scouts. Making the most of your time and scouting is critical to success. We don't have an idea of how much time we have in life. So planning out what you want to accomplish is important. Keep in mind that not every moment of every scouting trip or meeting should be planned down to the second. Free time is just as important for the development of fellowship.

The Order of the Arrow is a brotherhood of cheerful service. Many chapters are looking for ways to give service to their community. Here are some simple ideas that can blossom into meaningful projects throughout your area. The Order of the Arrow is a wonderful way to start giving back to your neighborhood through scouting.  ScouterStan talks about 3 big projects that can be put together rather quickly and benefit the public in your area.

A Scouts' Own service is usually short and often less than 15 minutes. As Scouts and Scouters, we have all participated in this religious observance. We discuss a Scouts' Own theme and structure to help Scouters put together an outstanding service. Keep in mind that the Scouts' Own service is not intended as a replacement for religious observance. It is a good way to reinforce the reverent part of the Scout Law.

Uniform seems to be a big concern with a great deal of leadership out there. Many of the top-rated videos on this channel have to do with uniforms and patches. Join ScouterStan as he describes his uniform and the story that it tells. Have you ever had to explain patches on your uniform? Not many of the adult leadership are actively uniform inspected. However, they need to set the example however they can. Have you ever wondered what something was on an adult's uniform and didn't ask? Does your district or council have some kind of patch that identifies a particular program or service? This interactive video asks the question what's that on your uniform?

Let's discuss the most important Arrowmen in the Order of the Arrow. They are often overlooked and taken for granted but this should not be the case. Without these OA brothers, your chapter would struggle and fail. The entire lodge in all of its chapters depends on this one person. Of course, I speak of the New Ordeal member. By far the most important Arrowmen in your chapter. They bring new growth and new ideas with solutions that you have never thought of. Without them, your chapter would soon fold and your lodge would suffer greatly.

Square knots can actually tell a story. The square knots that I'm referring to are the ones other leaders put on their uniforms above the left pocket flap. Discover the four categories in this installment about uniforms and identify leaders that can help your unit succeed. This patch although simple design can be difficult to put on correctly. There are some simple things to identify in placement on the uniform. Once a leader has earned a square knot it is a part of their record and never is removed. Many options can be used to define the achievement, award, recognition, or training.

Messengers of Peace is a flagship initiative of World Scouting that inspires Scouts around the world to take action in their communities by contributing to peace and sustainable development. Since 2010, Messengers of Peace has involved nearly all 172 National Scout Organizations of WOSM and inspired more than 16 million projects and actions totaling over 2.3 billion hours of community service.

The Order of the Arrow election season starts when unit leaders make contact with their OA chapter. All troops, crews, and ships are eligible for an election. The Inductions Team (also known as the Elections Team) will have a list of units in your district. Making contact is very important to make sure that you do not get missed. There are also a lot of technologies now that can help with setting up the election. Knowing the requirements for candidates is important when setting up the ballot. Make sure that you have a good location and time for the election in your unit. Adult leaders can also be elected into the Order of the Arrow. Encourage all youth to actively participate in activities with the order.

Cub Scout Packs and Scouts BSA Troops need to understand the differences between a Crossover ceremony and an Arrow Of Light ceremony. Not all Webelos Cub Scouts achieve the Arrow Of Light award, But when they are old enough they all crossover to a Troop. Choosing a ceremony can be a daunting task. There are some basic principles to keep in mind when selecting which ceremony would be best. Remember that a Cub Scout deserves their moment on stage for parents to take lots of pictures. This is a major change in a scout's life and good documentation of that moment should always be encouraged. Traditions are grand but not ones that are predictable and boring. Making the ceremony meaningful but not over lengthy will also help. Don't forget your resources. The Troop can help out with the ceremony and even the Order of the Arrow (OA) can help.