Leadership isn't a soft skill, it's a strategic driver
Outside Edge helps organizations unlock their full potential through immersive learning and outdoor experiences.
We Do Leadership Development a Little Differently
Yes, there’s time in the classroom. Learning real tools, proven frameworks, and ways to lead more effectively. But we don’t stop there.
We Take It Outside. Literally.
Leadership teams that develop together through shared, meaningful challenges build trust faster, communicate more effectively, and perform better under pressure (Digital Learning Edge, 2024).
And when learning sticks, it translates into results. From better strategy execution to stronger team culture and improved bottom-line performance (NACE, 2025).
Why Nature?
Because when you’re outside your usual environment, your patterns shift. You see each other differently. You think differently. And those leadership ideas you learned earlier? They start to stick. Not just in your head, but in how you actually show up as a team.
We don’t leave it there. We help you connect the dots between what happened out there and what happens every day in your business. Whether it’s communication, accountability, engagement, or culture, we’ll help you translate the experience into action.
How It Works
Most leadership programs keep everything in the room. Lots of talking, less doing. And most outdoor team-building? Fun, but without the follow-through.
We combine both.
What your team learns inside, they apply outside. And that makes all the difference.
Why It Works
A meta-analysis of 53 studies shows that experiential methods deliver learning outcomes over one standard deviation higher than traditional training (Stumpf & Freedman, 2016).
Adults, especially leaders, learn best when training is relevant, practical, and experience-based (Knowles, 1984).
Experiential learning increases engagement by 30% and improves knowledge retention by up to 75% (WiFiTalents, 2024).
Tying It All Together
We bring those same leadership lessons into nature, where your team works together on challenges designed to reinforce what you’ve learned. It’s not just team-building for the sake of fun, though it is fun. It’s about putting leadership into motion, in real time, with each other.
Your team leaves with stronger relationships, real leadership skills, and a shared sense of purpose plus clear, actionable takeaways to bring directly into your organization.
This isn’t theory. It’s transformation.
And it happens through experience.
Experiences
Our Programs
At Outside Edge we use a combination of expert-led classroom sessions along with outdoor experiences on topics including:
- Building Organizational Culture
- Effective Organizational Communication
- Leading Teams
- Performance Management
- Giving and Receiving Feedback
- Leadership Coaching
- Effective Conflict Management
- Change Management
- Leadership Development Retreats
- Board Development
- Team Building
- Other customized topics and retreats built to meet specific client needs
How It Works
A Unique and Transformational Experience
At Outside Edge, leadership lessons don't stay in the classroom - they are reinforced through outdoor learning.
Classroom Learning
Fast-paced and interactive expert led workshops.
Team Building / Outdoor Learning
Outdoor activities designed to reinforce classroom learning
Real-World Application
Dedicated time for real-world application—so leaders can translate insights into actions that drive results.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Outside Edge Consulting?
Outside Edge consulting combines classroom learning with outdoor experiences to develop leadership skills, enhance teamwork, and drive organizational success.
Who should attend?
Our content is designed for organizations who are looking to improve team collaboration, navigate change, improve engagement, strengthen leadership abilities, execute on mission, and/or drive profitability.
What makes Outside Edge Consulting different from other leadership programs?
At Outside Edge, leadership lessons go beyond the classroom. Learnings are reinforced outdoors and applied afterward to drive meaningful business outcomes.
Do I need prior outdoor experience?
No. Outdoor activities are designed for all skill levels and are focused on teamwork and leadership, not physical endurance.
How do I register?
Please contact us.
Where is Outside Edge located?
Outside Edge is located in MN. We have facilities and land in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. We can also come to you.
How many people can we bring to a session?
We’re happy to work with groups of up to 50 people—it really depends on what you're hoping to achieve. That said, we usually recommend having at least four participants to keep the energy up and ideas flowing. In our experience, the sweet spot tends to be between 6 and 15 people for the best mix of engagement and interaction.