Best National Recreation and Park Association Podcasts (2024)

1
Ed Gantt, Living History Interpreter, Talks Story with Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman 55:08

3h ago55:08

55:08

Edward W. Gantt, a retired Navy Captain with a unique background, talks story with Tim Merriman and Bill Gwaltney for "Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters." Born and raised in Washington, D.C., Gantt graduated from Howard University and the National Defense University. He served 30 years in the military, first …

1
NRPA Annual Conference Tips for First-Time Attendees — Episode 160 27:33

12h ago27:33

27:33

In less than 40 days, thousands of park and recreation professionals from across the country will gather in Atlanta for the 2024 NRPA Annual Conference. This is, without a doubt, the best park and recreation conference you can attend — it’s filled with tons of amazing opportunities to learn, build your network, and of course, have a little fun with…

1
Attention to Details Matter to Park Visitors 25:17

5h ago25:17

25:17

"The small stuff is where you create that memory or you create an impression that never leaves them. Attention to those little details really matter." Attention to details isn't just a small matter; it can transform the experience of park visitors. In the latest episode of the Park Leaders Show, Phil Gaines returns for a conversation about why the …

1
Attention to Details Matter to Park Visitors 25:17

1h ago25:17

25:17

"The small stuff is where you create that memory or you create an impression that never leaves them. Attention to those little details really matter." Attention to details isn't just a small matter; it can transform the experience of park visitors. In the latest episode of the Park Leaders Show, Phil Gaines returns for a conversation about why the …

1
Innovative Technology and Conservation 27:14

2d ago27:14

27:14

"We need to inspire people, especially young people, with innovation. That is how we can change the world in a positive way. Connect with Viktor Glice website Viktor's Website Viktor on Instagram Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/ Viktor Meier is the cofounder and CEO of …

1
Innovative Technology and Conservation 27:14

2d ago27:14

27:14

"We need to inspire people, especially young people, with innovation. That is how we can change the world in a positive way. Connect with Viktor Glice website Viktor's Website Viktor on Instagram Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/ Viktor Meier is the cofounder and CEO of …

1
Christy Coleman, Living History Interpreter and Manager, Talks Story with Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman 56:28

3h ago56:28

56:28

A Native of Eatonville, Florida, Christy Coleman grew up in the shadow of African American anthropologist and writer Zora Neale Hurston. As a teenager in 1982, wanting to become an actor, she accepted a summer position as a character actor for an enslaved woman named Rebecca at Colonial Williamsburg. Her growing enthusiasm for History led her to a …

1
From Access to Action: How We Can Thrive Like a Meadow — Episode 159 56:15

17d ago56:15

56:15

On today’s episode of Open Space Radio, we’re excited to chat with someone very influential in the outdoor recreation industry who is doing a ton of good work to raise awareness about protecting our environment. Not only that, but he is also a leader when it comes to making the outdoors more equitable and accessible. José Gonzáles is the founder of…

1
Louise Moreno Talks Story about the Moreno Camps in National Parks with Tim Merriman and Bill Gwaltney 49:55

5d ago49:55

49:55

A Co-Founder of “The Camp Moreno Project” along with her late Husband, Roberto Moreno and former National Park Ranger Bill Gwaltney, Louise Moreno has been a long-term activist promoting sharing the out of doors with Latino communities and families across the United States. Louise fell in love with the dashing Roberto Moreno and the pair were marri…

1
Promoting Healthy Aging Through Tai Chi — Episode 158 1:03:10

29d ago1:03:10

1:03:10

As you may know, May was Older Americans Month, and NRPA celebrated by sharing how older adult programs in parks and recreation are making a big impact in communities across the country. On today’s episode, we’re excited to explore one of the most popular programs in NRPA’s Healthy Aging in Parks portfolio: Tai Chi. Through funding from the Centers…

1
The Legacy of George Melendez Wright 45:48

19d ago45:48

45:48

"Because he died so early, there was no opportunity for him to really grow into what a lot of people think he was gonna become, which was the next director of the National Park Service and one of the leading conservationists in the nation." Key Moments 04:06 Working in conservation, writing about science and natural history. 07:05 Writing a book in…

1
The Legacy of George Melendez Wright 45:48

7d ago45:48

45:48

"Because he died so early, there was no opportunity for him to really grow into what a lot of people think he was gonna become, which was the next director of the National Park Service and one of the leading conservationists in the nation." Key Moments 04:06 Working in conservation, writing about science and natural history. 07:05 Writing a book in…

1
Part 2, Lorraine Johnson Coleman, Talks Story with Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman 46:14

1M ago46:14

46:14

Lorraine Johnson Coleman was born in the deep south, but also has roots in urban New York City. The proud daughter of a WWII African American U.S. Marine, she appreciates both the bitterness, and the sweetness that is part of growing up Black in America. Her interest in family history, shared stories and her attention to detail of African American …

1
Lorraine Johnson Coleman, Storyteller/Author, Talks Story with Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman 44:13

22d ago44:13

44:13

Lorraine Johnson Coleman was born in the deep south, but also has roots in urban New York City. The proud daughter of a WWII African American U.S. Marine, she appreciates both the bitterness, and the sweetness that is part of growing up Black in America. Her interest in family history, shared stories and her attention to detail of African American …

1
Inclusive Adventures: Building Belonging Through Adaptive Recreation — Episode 157 38:15

2M ago38:15

38:15

As we continue to celebrate Park and Recreation Month, we’re excited to highlight a story that truly embodies our theme of “Where You Belong.” Today’s episode is all about ensuring opportunities to recreate and spend time in nature are available to all, regardless of ability. And, it’s perfect timing because July is also Disability Pride Month! We …

1
What Has Changed in Parks in the Last Decade 36:15

1M ago36:15

36:15

"If you look back over the last 100 years of significant events in America's parks, state, national, local, that, you know, on that list of the top 10 or 15 things that's that's changed the way we manage parks is, how we did the pandemic." Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleader…

1
What Has Changed in Parks in the Last Decade 36:15

2M ago36:15

36:15

"If you look back over the last 100 years of significant events in America's parks, state, national, local, that, you know, on that list of the top 10 or 15 things that's that's changed the way we manage parks is, how we did the pandemic." Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleader…

1
Lee Coffee, Jr., Buffalo Soldier Living History Interpreter, Talks Story with Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman 1:02:32

2M ago1:02:32

1:02:32

Ten years into his 24-year US Army career, First Sergeant Lee N. Coffee Jr. assumed a carefully researched living history interpretive role as a 9th Cavalry Buffalo Soldier, Sgt. Emanuel Stance, a Medal of Honor recipient during the Indian Wars campaign in the 1870s. As a historian and professional speaker, Lee has won awards for over thirteen year…

1
Fostering Belonging Through Community Theater — Episode 156 32:03

2M ago32:03

32:03

Happy Park and Recreation Month! On today’s episode, we’re excited to bring you a story that truly embodies this year’s theme of “Where You Belong.” Each year, the NRPA team hosts a cover contest to find a cover photo and story for the July issue of Parks & Recreation magazine that supports the year’s theme, and this year’s winner is a gem. Today w…

1
Finding Balance in Your Park Career 23:38

2M ago23:38

23:38

"Work-life balance means that you're trying to find a way to balance this so you're a complete person and your batteries are recharged." Key Moments 01:10 Peak of park busyness means a ranger is always on as a ranger. 05:29 Balancing work and life in park professions. 09:08 Passion for work requires deliberate disengagement. 11:52 Engaging in activ…

1
Finding Balance in Your Park Career 23:38

2M ago23:38

23:38

"Work-life balance means that you're trying to find a way to balance this so you're a complete person and your batteries are recharged." Key Moments 01:10 Peak of park busyness means a ranger is always on as a ranger. 05:29 Balancing work and life in park professions. 09:08 Passion for work requires deliberate disengagement. 11:52 Engaging in activ…

1
Interpreting Freeman Tilden 35:02

2M ago35:02

35:02

"Does it really make any difference if you do believe something, but are at the same time intolerant of someone who does not agree or concur in your beliefs?" Key Moments 01:27 Meeting Freeman Tilden. 09:42 Starting a Career with Park Service at age 58. 11:54 Freeman Reevaluates National Park Service Principles and Writes "Interpreting Our Heritage…

1
Interpreting Freeman Tilden 35:02

2M ago35:02

35:02

"Does it really make any difference if you do believe something, but are at the same time intolerant of someone who does not agree or concur in your beliefs?" Key Moments 01:27 Meeting Freeman Tilden. 09:42 Starting a Career with Park Service at age 58. 11:54 Freeman Reevaluates National Park Service Principles and Writes "Interpreting Our Heritage…

1
John Miller, CIT, former NAI Region 6 Director Talks Story with Tim Merriman 48:45

2M ago48:45

48:45

John Miller had a long career as manager and interpreter at a fish hatchery in Branson, Missouri, a very popular tourism destination. He has also served in a variety of leadership roles with National Association for Interpretation, including Region 6 Director and more recently Chair of the Nominations Committee. He shares a unique story of a photo …

1
Celebrating Pride: The Power of Partnership and Allyship — Episode 155 1:02:04

3M ago1:02:04

1:02:04

Happy Pride Month! On today’s episode we’re discussing an important partnership in Nevada that provides safe spaces for the LGBTQ+ community to recreate outdoors, build a relationship with nature and build a sense of belonging. We learned about this partnership when Mihaela Genova, Volunteer Program Manager for Get Outdoors Nevada, submitted a phot…

1
How to Have an Effective Welcome Station 29:01

3M ago29:01

29:01

"The welcome station is where you are telling a visitor what to expect during the rest of their time with you." Key Moments 05:58 First Impressions Matter at Parks 10:41 The Importance of Welcome Station Staff 16:34 Understanding Role vs. Purpose 19:06 Optimizing Park Efficiency 21:41 Importance of Face Time with Park Rangers 24:57 Pre-Shift Meetin…

1
How to Have an Effective Welcome Station 29:01

3M ago29:01

29:01

"The welcome station is where you are telling a visitor what to expect during the rest of their time with you." Key Moments 05:58 First Impressions Matter at Parks 10:41 The Importance of Welcome Station Staff 16:34 Understanding Role vs. Purpose 19:06 Optimizing Park Efficiency 21:41 Importance of Face Time with Park Rangers 24:57 Pre-Shift Meetin…

1
Talking About the National Recreation and Park Association 30:41

3M ago30:41

30:41

"Parks can be a great antidote to social isolation and mental health struggles. Yet the only way to do that effectively is to invest in our parks and make sure that the experience that people have when they go is positive and supportive of those health outcomes." Key Moments 05:31 The Impact of Local Parks on Personal Growth 08:39 NRPA's origin and…

1
Talking About the National Recreation and Park Association 30:41

3M ago30:41

30:41

"Parks can be a great antidote to social isolation and mental health struggles. Yet the only way to do that effectively is to invest in our parks and make sure that the experience that people have when they go is positive and supportive of those health outcomes." Key Moments 05:31 The Impact of Local Parks on Personal Growth 08:39 NRPA's origin and…

1
Dr. Rex Ellis, African-American Museum Curator Talks Story with Tim Merriman and Bill Gwaltney on Reflections on Interpretation 43:58

2M ago43:58

43:58

Dr. Rex Ellis created the engaging African-American living history interpretive program at Colonial Williamsburg and went on to become the Associate Director of Curatorial Affairs at the National Museum African-American Museum History and Culture at Smithsonian Institute. Join us at Reflections on Interpretation to learn of his journey from interpr…

1
Kim Sikoryak, NPS Planner and Trainer, Talks Story with Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman on Reflections on Interpretation 40:56

3M ago40:56

40:56

Kim Sikoryak has had a three decade career working for National Park Service as a Ranger, Planner and Trainer. Today on Reflections on Interpretation:Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters, co-hosts Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman chat with Kim about his long and varied career and the importance of excellent interpretation in national parks. htt…

1
Certfied Interpretive Trainers Talk Story with Tim Merriman about Changes with NAI Certifications 1:13:34

4M ago1:13:34

1:13:34

The Certified Interpretive Guide and Host Courses are no longer certifications through National Association for Interpretation and NAI Certified Trainers have some opinions about those changes. Tim Merriman has Rita Nethersole, Clark Hancock, Mary McCormac, Dr. Phillip Smart and Lisa Brochu as guests in this special edition of Reflection on Interpr…

1
Tim Merriman Talks Story with Guest Host Bill Gwaltney about Tim's 50 Plus Years in Heritage Interpretation 1:08:48

4M ago1:08:48

1:08:48

Tim Merriman has had a 50 plus year career in the interpretive profession including Executive Director of National Association for Interpretation for 17 years. He has been a Nature Center Director, Manager of Research and Innovations at a National Recreation Area and a Park Ranger/Interpreter at a State Park. He was President of Association of Inte…

1
Building Belonging: Neurodivergent Perspectives in Parks and Recreation (Part 2) — Episode 154 59:14

4M ago59:14

59:14

As you may recall, our final episode of 2023 was part one of our conversation around neurodiversity and parks and recreation. It was a wonderful conversation with Kande Jones, the Development Director for Mulvane Recreation Commission, and Dave McDaniel, the Operations Coordinator for City of Mobile Parks and Recreation about their experience as ne…

1
Mark Jordahl, CIG, Manager of Communications with GRACE Center, Talks Story with Tim Merriman 58:40

4M ago58:40

58:40

Mark Jordahl, CIG, joins Tim Merriman on Reflections on Interpretation after several decades as an adventure guide, tourism entrepreneur and guest communications specialist with Natural Habitat Adventures. He is now the Communications Manager with Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education (GRACE) Center in Democratic Republic of Congo, work…

1
James Mazigo, Guide with Regal African Safaris in Tanzania, Talks Story with Tim Merriman 59:38

4M ago59:38

59:38

James Mazigo is a very experience safari guide working more than two decades in Tanzania, Rwanda and Kenya, now guides with Regal African Safaris, our guide company of choice in Tanzania. He tells of his unique journey to being a safari guide and explains how guides are organizing professionally in his nation. In two weeks Tim talks Story with Mark…

1
Creating Experiences for Normal People 23:03

5M ago23:03

23:03

"The general public is not impressed with how much you know. They're impressed with how much you've inspired them to know more about the places they visit." Key Moments 02:04 Creating Park Experiences for New Visitors 07:10 The Challenge of Information Overload in the Digital Era 10:35 Historical Communication and Public Engagement 16:02 Inspire Le…

1
Creating Experiences for Normal People 23:03

5M ago23:03

23:03

"The general public is not impressed with how much you know. They're impressed with how much you've inspired them to know more about the places they visit." Key Moments 02:04 Creating Park Experiences for New Visitors 07:10 The Challenge of Information Overload in the Digital Era 10:35 Historical Communication and Public Engagement 16:02 Inspire Le…

1
Creating a World Where Humanity Stands Out — Episode 153 43:28

5M ago43:28

43:28

On today’s episode, we’re talking with someone who has been making a big impact in the larger outdoor industry for a while now. Teresa Baker, founder of In Solidarity Project, is an outdoor enthusiast focusing on community engagement, creating events that encourage people to venture outdoors responsibly, and learning about our open spaces and what …

1
Tom Cowper, former Snohomish County Ranger/Interpreter, Talks Story with Tim Merriman 52:02

5M ago52:02

52:02

Tom Cowper of Snohomish County in Washington state is Timʻs guest today on Reflections on Interpretation. Heʻs been a park ranger, off-road vehicle coordinator, nature center superintendent and park interpreter after a stint in the U.S. Army. In two weeks on April 18 I welcome James Mazigo is Timʻs guest, a guide with Regal African Safaris in Tanza…

1
Volunteer Projects to Enhance Tourism 29:56

5M ago29:56

29:56

"We have to do more things with younger people to make sure they know what a cool industry we are and that there are so many different job opportunities that aren't just front line." Key Moments 04:35 Tourism Synergy and Collaboration 08:37 Empowering Youth to Make a Positive Impact 14:50 Revitalizing Urban Parks and Workforce Development. 19:03 Bu…

1
Volunteer Projects to Enhance Tourism 29:56

5M ago29:56

29:56

"We have to do more things with younger people to make sure they know what a cool industry we are and that there are so many different job opportunities that aren't just front line." Key Moments 04:35 Tourism Synergy and Collaboration 08:37 Empowering Youth to Make a Positive Impact 14:50 Revitalizing Urban Parks and Workforce Development. 19:03 Bu…

1
The Role of a Park Director 28:58

6M ago28:58

28:58

"A good new part director has a vision. And and if you want to make a difference and leave your mark, you have to have vision of where you want to take your agency in the next year, in the next 3 years, and in the next 5 years." Key Moments 06:53 Recognize the need to act as leader. 11:39 Watch what you say, people are listening. 13:38 Build on cor…

1
The Role of a Park Director 28:58

6M ago28:58

28:58

"A good new part director has a vision. And and if you want to make a difference and leave your mark, you have to have vision of where you want to take your agency in the next year, in the next 3 years, and in the next 5 years." Key Moments 06:53 Recognize the need to act as leader. 11:39 Watch what you say, people are listening. 13:38 Build on cor…

1
Michael Kirschman, Director of Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation, Talks Story with Tim Merriman 53:58

5M ago53:58

53:58

Michael Kirschman, City of Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation Director is talking story with Tim Merriman today on Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters. They will be sharing his unique journey from being a conservation educator to consultant with the EPA in American Samoa and Deputy Director of Nature Preserves…

1
Leadership is a Choice 28:13

6M ago28:13

28:13

“Go sit on a rock in your favorite spot somewhere and do a very serious self-assessment. What am I good at? What am I not good at? What do I like to do? What do I don't like to do? And if you don't want to be out there in the lead, if you don't want to be out there taking some risk, if you don't want to get up in front of audiences, don't put yours…

1
Leadership is a Choice 28:13

6M ago28:13

28:13

“Go sit on a rock in your favorite spot somewhere and do a very serious self-assessment. What am I good at? What am I not good at? What do I like to do? What do I don't like to do? And if you don't want to be out there in the lead, if you don't want to be out there taking some risk, if you don't want to get up in front of audiences, don't put yours…

1
Creating Space for Belonging in Juneau, Alaska — Episode 152 53:30

6M ago53:30

53:30

March is Women’s History Month, and this year’s theme celebrates women who advocate for equity, diversity and inclusion. This year we are honoring women who lead change in their field, and today’s episode does just that. There are so many women who are leaders in parks and recreation and bringing positive change to their communities, and today we’r…

1
Finding the Return on Investment in Interpretation 28:32

6M ago28:32

28:32

“People can't fall in love with your park if they're lost." Key Moments 03:49 Law enforcement rangers use interpretation to influence. 07:05 Expanding park interpretive products for diverse experiences. 09:56 Framework for visitor experience in parks and its application across different contexts. 13:53 Problem-solving strategies for adaptation. 19:…

1
Finding the Return on Investment in Interpretation 28:32

6M ago28:32

28:32

“People can't fall in love with your park if they're lost." Key Moments 03:49 Law enforcement rangers use interpretation to influence. 07:05 Expanding park interpretive products for diverse experiences. 09:56 Framework for visitor experience in parks and its application across different contexts. 13:53 Problem-solving strategies for adaptation. 19:…

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National Recreation And Park Association Podcasts

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