Scoutmaster Podcast 152

Opening bit riffing on the chain of asking patrol leader, senior patrol leader — 'Hey, this is podcast number 152'

Clarke welcomes listeners to the New Year's edition, previews upcoming January virtual roundtable on BSA STEM NOVA program, and introduces the four interview excerpts featured in this episode.

Lenore Skenazi, author and columnist behind Free Range Kids, discusses how Scouting supports children's independence and development while keeping them appropriately safe.

Andrew Skirka, adventurer of the year and author of the Ultimate Hiker's Gear Guide (National Geographic), discusses long-distance backpacking philosophy, gear selection, and a transcendent encounter with the porcupine caribou migration.

Michael Malone, technology writer and Eagle Scout, discusses his book '4%: The Story of Uncommon Youth in a Century of American Life' — the centennial history of the Eagle Scout Award and what it means to truly become an Eagle Scout.

Chief Scout Executive Robert Mazuka reflects on his Eagle Scout journey with Troop 28 in San Juan Batista, California, and shares his vision for the BSA's second century including STEM initiatives, healthy living, and the Summit project.

Clarke thanks panelists Larry Geiger, Tom Gillard, and Walter Underwood for their monthly contributions to the Scoutmaster Panel Discussion throughout 2012.