Best Laurels Wood Podcasts (2024)

1
A progress report on Pennsylvania's three newest state parks with Parks Director John Hallas 49:15

18h ago49:15

49:15

In September of 2022 before leaving office, then Gov. Tom Wolf announced the creation of three new state parks. Susquehanna Riverlands in York County, Big Elk Creek in Chester County and Vosburg Neck in Wyoming County. While these new state parks were quickly opened following the announcement, they have not taken their final form. Before they can b…

1
Allegheny National Forest - A half-million acres of adventures 49:36

14d ago49:36

49:36

In the early 20th Century, Americans had become alarmed at the disappearing forests in the eastern United States. Whether through private land purchases, deforestation, mining or other activities, the beautiful forests of the east were vanishing. Where once stood primeval forests of giant eastern hemlocks now stood stumps. As a result, wildfires sp…

1
Things that go bump in Penn's Woods with the Ghost Furnace Podcast 1:37:22

28d ago1:37:22

1:37:22

On this – the Halloween episode – of the podcast, we’re going to be exploring the many tales of ghosts, creatures, hauntings, cryptid sightings, unexplained phenomenon, legends and folk tales that have a history in Pennsylvania’s parks and forests. From the ghost sightings at Greenwood Furnace State Park to the Kecksburg UFO incident in Forbes Stat…

1
Hickory Run State Park - Journey through prehistoric geology in the Poconos 51:53

1M ago51:53

51:53

Those visiting Hickory Run State Park in the Pocono Mountains should expect to see something they’ve never see before. In the northeast corner of the park, formed by millions of years of glacial movement is the Boulder Field. At 400 feet by 1,800 feet, this vast, rocky landscape is a geological marvel. The field is made up of tightly packed sandsto…

1
Discover the wonderful world of mushrooms with the Philadelphia Mycology Club 55:54

2M ago55:54

55:54

There’s just something about mushrooms that so are cool. I can’t really explain it. They come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, often looking like they belong in a fairy tale or another planet. They transform any landscape with their mysterious, almost magical appearance. They are not plants or animals but belong to a fascinating kingdom of their o…

1
Breaking trails and building community with the Keystone Trails Association 59:20

2M ago59:20

59:20

This episode is sponsored by the Keystone Trails Association. Most people never know how much volunteer work goes into their favorite hiking trail. Countless hours are spent breaking trails, cutting back brush, moving rocks, building steps, preventing water erosion and blazing trails. Then, after the trail is built, even more hours are spent mainta…

1
Become an IDOL: English Majors as Instructional Designers with Laurel Schulert | 106 20:05

3M ago20:05

20:05

In this episode, Laurel Schulert, the Senior Director of Learning Experience at SAP Concur, discusses her journey from being an English teacher to becoming a successful instructional designer. Tune in to find out: Laurel's insights on why English majors make great instructional designers and the valuable skills they bring to the field. Laurel's per…

1
Timber! Harvesting history at the Pennsylvania Lumber Museum 1:17:54

3M ago1:17:54

1:17:54

For thousands of years, the land that would become Pennsylvania was dominated by dense, ancient forests that stretched as far as the eye could see. Towering trees such as white oaks, chestnuts and hemlocks formed a vast green canopy that covered hundreds of miles. The forests were such an integral part of this landscape that it was named Pennsylvan…

1
Become an IDOL Podcast: Project Management for Learning and Development with Tamara McLemore | 105 33:53

3M ago33:53

33:53

In this episode of the Become an IDOL Podcast, Tamara McLemore, a project management expert, shares her insights and strategies for effective project management, particularly in the context of learning and development. Tune in to find out: Tamara's approach to building relationships and communicating with stakeholders, including her emphasis on und…

1
Poe Paddy and Poe Valley State Parks - Uncover rugged wilderness in Happy Valley 31:34

3M ago31:34

31:34

The vast majority of Pennsylvania’s state parks are easy to drive to. That’s one of the reasons our parks are so accessible to residents and visitors. They’re located on paved roads and can often be found just a few minutes from a highway. But then there are parks that are not so easy to get to. They’re the ones that can only be explored using grav…

1
Become an IDOL Podcast: Learning in Context - Generative AI with Kayvon Touran | 104 33:41

3M ago33:41

33:41

In this episode, Dr. Robin Sargent interviews Kayvon Touran, the CEO and co-founder of Zal.ai, about the role of generative AI in workforce learning and development. Tune in to find out: How Kayvon and his company are using generative AI to enhance employee training and practice through AI-powered practice partners and feedback facilitators. The im…

1
Forbes State Forest - Endless outdoor adventures in the Laurel Highlands 58:52

4M ago58:52

58:52

To list all of the features of Forbes State Forest would be pointless. That’s because it has so much to offer so many people. You want trails, it’s got it. You want overlooks, its got it. You want waterfalls, it’s got it. Forbes State Forest has some of the best land in Pennsylvania for everything from mountain biking and hiking to ATV riding and w…

1
Become an IDOL Podcast: Instructional Design in Cambodia - A Success Story with Utdam Song | 103 22:46

4M ago22:46

22:46

In this episode, Utdam Song, an instructional designer from Cambodia, shares his career journey from being a high school teacher to landing his first instructional design job. Utdam discusses how the IDOL courses Academy provided him with practical, hands-on learning that complemented his academic studies. This helped him succeed in the interview p…

1
Moraine State Park - From ruined to reclaimed in less than 100 years 35:49

4M ago35:49

35:49

Standing on the shore of Lake Arthur in Moraine State Park, you’d never think the area was the site of massive deforestation, coal mining and gas drilling practices that scarred the landscape for decades. But it is. In the 1800s, farmers cleared the forests and drained the swamps that would one day be Moraine State Park. Materials such as sand, gra…

1
Become an IDOL Podcast: What Higher Ed Can Learn From Corporate Instructional Design with Dr. Natalie Berkman | 102 24:12

4M ago24:12

24:12

In this episode, Dr. Robin Sargent interviews Dr. Natalie Berkman about her journey to becoming an instructional designer through IDOL courses. They discuss her background in higher education, achievements, and transition into a C-level role. Tune in to hear: - Dr. Berkman's insights on upskilling and leveraging new tools like Articulate 360 and Ge…

1
Beltzville State Park - Beach, boating and beyond in the Poconos 56:26

5M ago56:26

56:26

There are few sights I enjoy as much as people having fun in Pennsylvania state parks. Children playing tag and hide-and-go-seek. Adults telling stories around a picnic table. Friends catching up while grilling. And never have I see so many people having such a good time, then on Memorial Day weekend at Beltsville State Park. Upon entering the park…

1
Become an IDOL Podcast: Learning Designer to CEO with Juliana Stancampiano | 101 35:32

5M ago35:32

35:32

In this episode of the Become an IDOL podcast, host Dr. Robin Sargent interviews Juliana Stancampiano, founder and CEO of Oxygen Experiences. Tune in to hear: - Juliana's journey from working at Microsoft to founding the US office of Oxygen and eventually acquiring ownership of the business - How Juliana's company creates engaging learning experien…

1
How fireflies light up Pennsylvania's night skies with Dr. Sarah Lower 37:39

5M ago37:39

37:39

The arrival of fireflies has always represented summer to me. They've meant barbeques. They meant fireworks. They meant being a kid. I’ve heard from so many people about the memories they have connected to lightening bugs. Exploring the woods with grandparents who have long passed. 4th of July parties with their friends. A first kiss. A break up. F…

1
Become an IDOL Podcast: Leading is Teaching with Dr. Dwayne Wood Professor | 100 38:20

5M ago38:20

38:20

In this episode of the Become an IDOL podcast, Dr. Robin Sargent interviews Dr. Dwayne Wood about leadership and teaching. Tune in to find out: How Dr. Wood explains how leadership and teaching are interchangeable concepts based on his military and educational background. Examples of leadership principles and qualities that can be applied to effect…

1
Presque Isle State Park - Pennsylvania's Great Lake Getaway 48:11

6M ago48:11

48:11

Last year, nearly four million people visited Presque Isle State Park in Erie- making it the most visited state park in Pennsylvania. And anyone whose ever visited this wonderful park understands why. There’s no other park like Presque Isle in the Commonwealth. It is totally unique and incredibly special. But what makes Presque Isle so unique? It a…

1
Branching, Blurry Eggs and an Awesome App! 22:40

6M ago22:40

22:40

Time to catch up with the very latest from the wood as some journeys come to an end - and some get underway! Hope you enjoy listening!By Laurels Wood

1
Michaux State Forest - Exploring Pennsylvania’s 'cradle of forestry' in the Appalachian Mountains 22:29

6M ago22:29

22:29

Spanning 85,000 acres across three Central Pennsylvania counties, Michaux State Forest is a sanctuary of lush woodlands, crystal-clear streams and a rich tapestry of history and wildlife. Considered Pennsylvania’s “cradle of forestry,” Michaux State Forest is nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, giving visitors a bevy of settings to explore all ye…

1
Become an IDOL Podcast: Imposter Syndrome in L&D with Betty Dannewitz | 99 44:48

6M ago44:48

44:48

In this episode of the Become an IDOL podcast, Betty Dannewitz and Dr. Robin Sargent discuss leadership training and overcoming imposter syndrome in L&D. Tune in to hear: Betty’s background in learning and development and how she became a known conference speaker Insights into imposter syndrome, including common causes and coping strategies discuss…

1
Ringing, Catastrophes and Surprises! 21:52

6M ago21:52

21:52

What a couple of weeks here at the wood! Good times, bad times - and plenty of other bumps along the way! Here's the latest news and developments from all of the wildlife here.By Laurels Wood

1
Benjamin Rush State Park - Cultivating community through gardening 33:43

7M ago33:43

33:43

The definition of a garden is a small piece of ground used to grow vegetables, fruit, herbs or flowers. But it’s much more than that. It’s a community meeting place. It’s an outdoor classroom. It’s an organic food market. It’s a sustainable hobby. And it’s a place to make lifelong friendships. Ask anyone whose spent time in a community garden and t…

1
Become an IDOL Podcast: Creativity for Instructional Designers with Amanda Nguyen, LXD | 98 35:40

7M ago35:40

35:40

In this episode of the Become an IDOL podcast, Amanda Nguyen shares her journey and advice on creativity in instructional design. Tune in to hear: - Amanda's experience working as a learning experience designer at Canva and how she utilized their platform for educational purposes. - Her creative process and workflow, including how she draws inspira…

1
MAMMOTH food drops, technological problems and a surprise visitor! 18:09

7M ago18:09

18:09

INCREDIBLE scenes in the tawny owl box this week, some IT challenges and the surprise visit from a very good friend....it's all in this week's update from Laurels Wood!By Laurels Wood

1
Getting hooked on fishing with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission 1:19:06

7M ago1:19:06

1:19:06

In the soft light of dawn, a lone figure stands by the water's edge, casting a line into the stillness. The morning mist hangs low, obscuring the surface as they patiently wait, listening to the quiet sounds of nature stirring awake. With a steady hand, they feel the tug of a Pennsylvania brook trout beneath the surface. Engaging in a brief but fur…

1
Become an IDOL Podcast: Teacher to Instructional Designer for Lowes with Alyssa Coiro | 97 31:27

7M ago31:27

31:27

In this episode of the Become an IDOL podcast, Alyssa Coiro shares her journey from teacher to instructional designer. Tune in to hear: - Alyssa's story of how she discovered instructional design during the COVID pandemic and decided to pursue it through IDOL. - Details about Alyssa's experience building her portfolio within 8 weeks of the IDOL pro…

1
Tawny Owl Surprises! 19:10

7M ago19:10

19:10

Major developments in the wood this week - and the tawny owls have got a LOT on their hands with some new arrivals! Get all of the latest news and updates from Laurels Wood for this week.By Laurels Wood

1
Embracing Leave No Trace principles with Ben Lawhon of Sawtooth Outdoor Education 59:25

7M ago59:25

59:25

As Pennsylvanians head outdoors in record numbers, it’s imperative that we all learn how best to protect our environment. From backpackers and hikers to rock climbers and mountain bikers, it’s all our responsibilities to preserve the beauty of our natural spaces in and outside of the Commonwealth. And, there’s no better guide, no better set of prin…

1
Nest Watching Made Easy 25:37

8M ago25:37

25:37

What is an easy, straightforward way to start to watch birds nests? I give you a simple guide to creating your first bird watching setup....we also catch up on the latest news from here at the wood and another of your questions is answered!By Laurels Wood

1
What Happened In Lockdown 29:30

8M ago29:30

29:30

A very special guest joins us for this week's episode - we catch up with the latest news and developments - and another of your questions is answered!By Laurels Wood

1
Become an IDOL Podcast: Gamification Framework with Terry Pearce | 96 27:27

8M ago27:27

27:27

By Dr. Robin Sargent

1
Dude, where’s the sun? Experiencing Pennsylvania’s total solar eclipse 26:49

8M ago26:49

26:49

On April 8, 2024 Pennsylvanians will have the opportunity to see something special. Something that’s not been seen in our commonwealth since January 1925. – nearly 100 years ago. From about 3:15 to 3:20 the moon will pass between the Earth and the sun, blocking the sun’s light. A total solar eclipse. This eclipse will cross 15 states in North Ameri…

1
Our First Fixed Camera Setup 23:06

8M ago23:06

23:06

Get the latest news from Laurels Wood as well as discovering how we went about creating our first fixed camera setup, the camera that was used - and another of your questions is answered!By Laurels Wood

1
How It All Began! 18:47

8M ago18:47

18:47

In this first episode of this brand new podcast, find out how the wildlife watching here at Laurels Wood began. Also find out the latest about what is happening at each of the boxes - as egg laying season begins!By Laurels Wood

1
Become an IDOL Podcast: AI for Learning and Development with Ross Stevenson | 95 44:35

8M ago44:35

44:35

By Dr. Robin Sargent

1
Black Moshannon State Park - Charting a course through wilderness and wetlands 30:24

8M ago30:24

30:24

It’s difficult for me to pick what I like most about Black Moshannon State Park. It’s a struggle I face every time I recommend this wonderful park to friends - which is often. I’ll go from talking about the incredible camping and cabin opportunities to swooning about the park’s lake and bog. Then I get going about the abundance of wildlife. And the…

1
Become an IDOL Podcast: Freelancing as an Instructional Designer with Jessica Evans | 94 25:38

9M ago25:38

25:38

In this episode, Jessica Evans shares her journey from classroom teacher to freelance instructional designer. Tune in to hear: Jessica's career path from teacher to instructional designer and how she started her freelance business Tips on networking, building relationships, and generating referrals as a freelancer Advice for aspiring instructional …

1
Oil Creek State Park - Much more than the birthplace of the American oil industry 28:34

9M ago28:34

28:34

It’s the spring of 1858. Colonel Edwin Drake from New York is hired by the Seneca Oil Company to investigate suspected oil deposits in Titusville, Pennsylvania. While the existence of petroleum oil was known, there no considerable market for the material. After months of work, Drake had little to show for his efforts. Undeterred, Drake took out a $…

1
Become an IDOL Podcast: Upskilling in Instructional Design with Chris Skees | 93 23:45

9M ago23:45

23:45

In this episode, Robin Sargent interviews Chris Skees, a Learning Product Manager at Cisco, about his career progression in the learning and development industry. He provides insights into career development and upskilling strategies, emphasizing mindset, curiosity, and stretch projects. Tune in to hear: 1. Chris Skees discuss his career journey fr…

1
A beginners guide to birding with Jason Hall of the In Color Birding Club 1:29:29

9M ago1:29:29

1:29:29

Whether you’re hiking ancient forests or picnicking in an urban park, birds are all around us. From the common pigeon on a Philly stoop to a bald eagle soaring above the Susquehanna River, the avian world is vast in Pennsylvania. Birding is the observation of birds in their natural habitats. Often seen as a hobby for old fogies, the activity has go…

1
Become an IDOL Podcast: Training Management with Russell Sweep | 92 30:43

10M ago30:43

30:43

In this episode, Robin Sargent interviews Russell Sweep about his career transition from professor to instructional designer and training manager. Tune in to hear: Russell's story of transitioning from academia to the corporate world as an instructional designer. How Russell prepared himself for 6 months before landing contract work and eventually …

1
Preserving paradise with the Pennsylvania Parks and Forest Foundation 59:42

10M ago59:42

59:42

When it comes to our parks and forests, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources can only do so much. There’s too much trail maintenance, invasive species removal, education programs and other things that must be done to complete it all That’s where the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation steps in. Since 1999, the Pen…

1
Delaware Canal State Park - Take a 59-mile towpath through history & nature 40:36

10M ago40:36

40:36

Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania’s coal region, Delaware Canal State Park stands as a testament to the intertwining of history and nature. Stretching almost 59 miles from Easton to Bristol along the Delaware River, this park is made up of a tapestry of landscapes that begs to be explored by foot, bike and boat. You can spend a lifetime explorin…

1
Cherry Springs State Park - Spend a night in the stars 41:45

11M ago41:45

41:45

Located in Potter County, Cherry Springs State Park is home to some of the darkest night skies on the East Coast. Astronomers and stargazers from all over the country flock to this small park just to look up at the stars. The darkness of the area and the clarity found in the sky makes Chery Springs perhaps the last best refuge of the natural night …

1
Hemlocks to Hellbenders Season 2 Trailer 1:08

11M ago1:08

1:08

We’re building on the success of our first season with even more great guests and great stories for our second season in 2024. This season we’re going to be hearing from park and forest managers, conservationists, biologists, environmental educators, volunteers and lots more. Experts in their fields will be speaking to us about our public lands, co…

1
Become an IDOL Podcast: Immersive Technologies for Learning AR and VR with Destery Hildenbrand | 91 35:59

12M ago35:59

35:59

In this episode of the Become an IDOL podcast, Robin Sargent interviews Destery Hildenbrand, an XR Solution Architect who helps clients realize their immersive technology dreams through virtual reality, augmented reality, and blended learning solutions. Tune in to find out: Destery's career journey from graphic designer to XR Solution Architect and…

1
A Conversation with PA DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn 1:13:44

12M ago1:13:44

1:13:44

The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is a gigantic operation. As the largest public landowner in the Commonwealth, DCNR manages millions of acres of land – including 124 state parks and 20 state forests. But it doesn’t end there. DCNR also manages everything on those millions of acres. There’s the buildings, education c…

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