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Watch #TroopTalkLive on the second Wednesday of each month at 2 p.m. Central on Facebook Live or YouTube. We’ll share useful tips, tricks and ideas to help your Scouts BSA troop.

Upcoming Episodes

  • Dec. 11
  • Jan. 8

The show begins at 2 p.m. Central on the Scouting magazine Facebook page or YouTube channel.


Latest Episode

Surveys and research in Scouts BSA

Research and surveys are vital tools for improving the Scouts BSA program. In this #TroopTalkLive, we’ll review recent survey findings with Director of Research Pat Wellen. Join us as she shares valuable insights, and find out how your feedback shapes the future of Scouting. (Nov. 13, 2024)


#TroopTalkLive Archives

DateTitle
11/13/2024Surveys and research in Scouts BSA
Research and surveys are vital tools for improving the Scouts BSA program. In this #TroopTalkLive, we’ll review recent survey findings with Director of Research Pat Wellen. Join us as she shares valuable insights, and find out how your feedback shapes the future of Scouting.
10/9/2024Ideas for your troop to observe Election Day and Veterans Day
From dignified flag ceremonies to impactful service projects, Scouting is always focused on citizenship. In this #TroopTalkLive, we’ll explore how troop activities can help Scouts become responsible, active citizens in their communities, the nation and the world.
9/11/2024Find out about an innovative Wood Badge course at the Summit Bechtel Reserve
There’s no better way to learn leadership skills than Wood Badge. In this #TroopTalkLive, we’ll talk to the directors of an innovative course at the Summit Bechtel Reserve. Find out what makes this Wood Badge course special and how you can register to attend.
8/28/2024What is the Scouts BSA Youth Council and how does it work?
Your Scouts can apply now for the 2024-25 Scouts BSA Youth Council, aimed at putting youth perspectives central in program decision making. In this #TroopTalkLive, we’ll talk with one of the council’s chairs and some of its youth members about what it is and how it works.
7/10/2024What is the combined troop pilot program?
Scouting America is currently developing a pilot program that could create a new way for Scouts BSA troops to serve youth and their families. On this month’s #TroopTalkLive, we discuss the possibility of creating a combined troop — a troop with both boys and girls.
6/12/2024How to spread the word that girls can join Scouting America
Join us for #TroopTalkLive as we explore ways to spread the word that girls can join Scouting America! We’ll tackle the challenges of recruiting youth, with a special focus on welcoming girls into Scouts BSA troops. Don’t miss this opportunity to share innovative ideas for bringing the Scouting program to all kids.
5/15/2024Philmont Training Center’s Opening Doors Course
The Opening Doors course at Philmont Training Center is all about eliminating barriers to joining Scouting. On this month’s #TroopTalkLive, we discuss why it should be a priority for every Scouts BSA leader.
4/10/2024Prepare youth to lead with Introduction to Leadership Skills for Troops (ILST) training
Scouts BSA is a youth-led program. In today’s #TroopTalkLive, we’ll talk about how the Introduction to Leadership Skills for Troops training can help your youth be better prepared to lead.
3/13/2024How will Scouts BSA troops be affected by the Cub Scout program updates?
How will Scouts BSA troops be affected by the upcoming Cub Scout program updates? In this #TroopTalkLive, we’ll discuss what troop leaders need to know about Arrow of Light rank requirements, troop visits, crossovers and more. Join us with your questions!
2/14/2024Prepare now for a successful BSA swim test
The BSA swim test plays a vital role in keeping Scouts safe during aquatic activities. In this #TroopTalkLive, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions and talk about why right now — in the middle of winter! — is the perfect time to start thinking about this essential test.
1/10/2024What is a Board of Review? Why do we have them in Scouts BSA?
What is a board of review and why do we have them in Scouts BSA? In this #TroopTalkLive, we’ll get expert answers to your questions about boards of review.
12/13/2023How to overcome common challenges on the journey to Eagle Scout
Earning the rank of Eagle Scout is tough, but it’s easier if you know the correct process. On this #TroopTalkLive, we discuss how to handle common challenges and issues that Eagle Scout candidates may face on their journey to the highest rank in Scouts BSA.
11/8/2023The Scout Basic Essentials
The Scout Basic Essentials can make every outdoor adventure better, and help you get out of a jam in an emergency. Join us on #TroopTalkLive as we examine the importance of each essential item. Sponsored by Sawyer Products.
10/11/2023Find Out About the Linked Troop Wood Badge Course at the Summit
There’s no better way to learn leadership skills than Wood Badge. In this #TroopTalkLive, we’ll talk to the directors of an innovative course scheduled for Jan. 15-19 at the Summit Bechtel Reserve. Find out what makes this Wood Badge course special and how you can register to attend.
9/27/2023Scouts BSA Resources for Suicide Prevention Month
September is Suicide Prevention Month. In today’s #TroopTalkLive, we discuss the resources the Scouts BSA team has made available to help unit leaders address this very important issue with their Scouts.
9/13/2023How to Accommodate Scouts With Disabilities
Let’s talk about how to accommodate Scouts with disabilities. This #TroopTalkLive is focused on making sure all youth are able to fully participate in the adventures of Scouting. Plus, we’re answering some of your most-often asked questions and providing resources to help your troop thrive!
8/9/2023The New Merit Badge Hub
The new Merit Badge Hub makes it simple for Scouts to find merit badge requirements and information. In today’s #TroopTalkLive, we’ll explore this new online resource and find out about more exciting updates.
7/12/2023What’s the Scouts BSA National Youth Council and how do Scouts apply?
The Scouts BSA National Youth Council was created to give youth the opportunity to shape the future of the Scouts BSA program. Learn about what the council does — and how Scouts can apply — in this month’s episode of #TroopTalkLive.
6/21/2023Tips for a fun and successful summer camp
Summer camp season is here! In this #TroopTalkLive, we’ll talk all about camp and share ideas for making it a fun and successful week.
5/10/2023All About the Scouts BSA Uniform
Uniforms are one of the methods of the Scouts BSA program. Join us on #TroopTalkLive as we discuss why we wear the uniform, along with some uniform do’s and do not’s.
4/13/2023Experts weigh in on how we can prevent child abuse
For Child Abuse Prevention Month, #TroopTalkLive is joined by child safety experts to discuss the role that BSA leaders and families can play in preventing abuse.
3/8/2023How to help Scouts be successful in their troop leadership roles
Yes, we let Scouts lead. But we should also teach them how to lead. In this #TroopTalkLive, we’ll discuss ways to train your Scouts so they can be successful in their troop leadership roles.
2/8/2023Merit Badge Mechanics
What’s the purpose of the BSA’s merit badge program? Can requirements ever be changed? How do I suggest a new merit badge? Join us to talk all about merit badge mechanics in the first-ever episode of #TroopTalkLive!