So You Want to Operate a Mobile Wilderness Program?

In this conversation, Candace Brendler speaks with Micah Leinbach, the executive director of the BOAT Bus, about the innovative mobile wilderness program designed to make outdoor education more accessible. They discuss the importance of inclusion in outdoor recreation, the unique model of the BOAT Bus, and the challenges and strategies related to funding, insurance, and partnerships.

 

Micah shares insights from his career journey, the daily operations of the BOAT Bus, and the significance of collaboration in the outdoor education space. Micah discusses the importance of collaboration in outdoor education, the challenges and successes of building a nonprofit from scratch, and the critical need for inclusivity in outdoor programs. He emphasizes the value of understanding community needs, the role of reciprocity, and the importance of training future leaders in the outdoor space. The discussion also touches on the complexities of funding and the necessity of open communication in fostering an inclusive environment.

 

Micah will be joining AORE for the 2025 Inclusivity in the Outdoors month. You can learn more here.

 

Meet Micah

Micah Leinbach has been running collaboratively-designed outdoor programs across organizations for over a decade, leading multiple teams in conducting this style of custom-built education program. He has supported non-profits, schools, municipalities, faith groups, home school families, and more in building - and then supporting the operations of - trips that expand on the work they already do. He has worked as a wilderness guide for over a decade, and is a Wilderness EMT, Level 3 Leave No Trace Instructor, and experienced coach and facilitator.

 

 

 

Resources

• Learn more about the BOAT Bus