Best National Recreation and Park Association Podcasts (2024)

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

21d 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
Fostering Belonging Through Community Theater — Episode 156 32:03

4h 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

3h ago23:38

23:38

Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/

1
Finding Balance in Your Park Career 23:38

8h 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
411 Lifeseeker Technology Can Save Your Life 27:23

22h ago27:23

27:23

On this episode, Bob chats with Hector Estevez, the CEO of Centum Research and Technology. Calling from his company's headquarters in Spain, he and Bob talk about the "Lifeseeker" technology and devices that have been used in Europe and are now being introduced in the United States. The devices, which can locate a missing hiker in minutes, work alo…

1
Interpreting Freeman Tilden 35:02

2d 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

2d 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

6d 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

9d 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

9d 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

9d 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
410 Bob visits North Carolina 28:31

15d ago28:31

28:31

On this week's podcast, Bob goes solo as he talks about his trip hiking and photographing waterfalls in North Carolina. He discusses the scenery, the trails and the people he's encountered. Also, a short discussion on when you should go with a tour group and when you should make your own arrangements. Also, Colorado Springs E-bike survey and El Pas…

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

17d 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

20d 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
409 Big changes coming to the podcast! 52:23

29d ago52:23

52:23

On this week's podcast, Bob and co-host Kevin discuss big changes coming to the podcast, and ask the listeners to voice their thoughts on the changes. Also, water safety and Kevin went to the Outdoor Magazine event in Denver Please consider becoming a patron of this podcast! Visit: https://www.patreon.com/hikingbob for more information Hiking Bob w…

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

1M 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
408 Author and Adventurer Kevin Fedarko is the guest 49:58

1M ago49:58

49:58

On this week's podcast, Bob's guest us author and adventurer Kevin Fedarko. They talk about his newly released book "A Walk in the Park: The True Story of a Spectacular Misadventure in the Grand Canyon". The book details his and photographer Pete McBride's attempt to hike the entire length of the canyon, from east to west. Also, they discuss how ov…

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

1M 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
407 City leader Richard Skorman is the guest 41:25

1M ago41:25

41:25

On this week's podcast, Bob sits down for a chat with Colorado Springs' Richard Skorman. Skorman is a a former city councilor, a small business owner, outdoor advocate, civic leader and water conservation activist. They talk about his newest initiative of getting volunteers to help clean up trash in sensitive areas and neighborhoods, the scarcity o…

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

2M 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
406 Pikes Peak Update, Fox Run Nature Center, other news 47:55

2M ago47:55

47:55

On this week's podcast, Bob provides an update on the shuttle and reservation system on Pikes Peak. Also, interesting facts around the proposed Fox Run Park Nature Center, a new feature on the COTREX app and website, and Bob is selling one of his cameras. Pikes Peak season/annual passes: https://tinyurl.com/tz94b427 COTREX wildfire alerts: https://…

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

2M 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
405 City and County Master Plans, Pikes Peak Shuttle 40:22

2M ago40:22

40:22

On this week's podcast, Bob and Kevin discuss master plans projects underway for Colorado Springs' Fishers Canyon Open Space and El Paso County's Jones Park. Also, a discussion about timed-entry reservation requirement for Pikes Peak, and a new shuttle system that leaves out recreational users. Fishers Canyon Master Plan: https://tinyurl.com/3ndbv8…

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

2M 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
404 A hike and conversation with "Hiking Unlimited" 24:12

2M ago24:12

24:12

On this week's podcast, Bob takes a short hike while interviewing Sheila Doherty a/k/a "Hiking Unlimited" on social media. An expert based in Phoenix, she gives advice on hiking in the desert Southwest, chats with Bob about her favorite trips and hikes, and also her future plans. Along on the hike was Sheila's friend, Michelle, a new hiker who was …

1
403 Want to hike to Hanging Lake? Plan ahead. 46:06

3M ago46:06

46:06

On this week's podcast, Bob is joined by co-host Kevin "Wild" Westendorf and they catch up on what Kevin has been doing since he was last on the show. They also discuss people behaving badly on trails, a rescue due to people being woefully underprepared, and if you want to hike to the popular Hanging Lake, you will need to prepare carefully and far…

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

3M 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
402 Rocky Mountain Field Institute's Jolie NeSmith 44:29

3M ago44:29

44:29

On this week's podcast, Bob interviews Jolie NeSmith, the Executive Director of the Rocky Mountain Field Institute (RMFI). They talk about her first year at the helm, including challenges and accomplishments, and then move on to discuss the 2024 work season. The review the projects RMFI will be working on, with an update on the multi-year Devils Pl…

1
401 Luis Benitez and How Outdoor Recreation can Save the World 56:41

3M ago56:41

56:41

Bob chats with Luis Benitez, the author of "Higher Ground: How The Outdoor Recreation Industry Can Save The World". The first head of Colorado's Outdoor Recreation Industry Office, and a leader in the outdoor recreation industry, he talks with Bob about the need to change how outdoor recreation in the United States is funded and managed, and how he…

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

3M 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
Creating Experiences for Normal People 23:03

3M 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

3M 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
Tom Cowper, former Snohomish County Ranger/Interpreter, Talks Story with Tim Merriman 52:02

3M 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
400 The Healthy Hiker talks about taking care of our feet 1:06:41

3M ago1:06:41

1:06:41

This week's podcast is all about feet and how to take care of them. Bob is joined by frequent guest Physical Therapist and "Healthy Hiker" Alicia Filley, for an enlightening talk about feet. From common injuries, to how to decipher pain, to socks and shoes, they cover almost anything you'd want to know about feet and hiking. The Healthy Hiker websi…

1
Volunteer Projects to Enhance Tourism 29:56

3M 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

3M 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
399 Terrain Hoppers come to Cheyenne Mountain SP 39:03

3M ago39:03

39:03

On this week's podcast, Bob and Kevin discuss trail projects at two of Colorado Springs' most popular parks; one master plan is being finalized while another is starting. Also Cheyenne Mountain State Park has new Terrain Hoppers for visitors with accessiblity issues; will you able to see the April solar eclipse from Colorado? And finally, in the af…

1
The Role of a Park Director 28:58

3M 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

3M 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

4M 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
398 CPW update. Also winter driving, choosing footwear and more 31:05

4M ago31:05

31:05

On this week's podcast, Bob and co-host Wild Westendorf discuss the latest developments with the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission. Also, winter driving, choosing the right hiking footwear and Kevin has another medical scare. Please consider becoming a patron of this podcast! Visit: https://www.patreon.com/hikingbob for more information Hiking…

1
Leadership is a Choice 28:13

4M 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

4M 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
397 What's going on with the CPW Commission? 30:33

4M ago30:33

30:33

On this week's podcast, Bob and Kevin talk about Daylight Saving Time, the hubbub over some appointments to the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission, and why are some hikers and cyclists harrassing construction workers? Please consider becoming a patron of this podcast! Visit: https://www.patreon.com/hikingbob for more information Hiking Bob webs…

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

4M 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

4M 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

4M 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
Ilan Shamir, Entrepreneur with Your True Nature, Talks Story with Tim Merriman 55:01

4M ago55:01

55:01

Tim Merriman will talk story with Ilan Shamir, interpretive entrepreneur who created Your True Nature and an amazing series of interpretive products sold all over the US in parks, zoos, museums, nature centers and historic sites. They will also discuss his diverse experience as a keynote speaker and program innovator. His unique products and servic…

1
396 Where are the best behaved hikers? 31:14

4M ago31:14

31:14

On this week's podcast, Bob flies solo! He discusses his next major "bucket list" trip, hiking in the desert, where are the best behaved hikers and cyclists. Also, the master plan process is ending for one Colorado Springs park and starting for another one, controversy with the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission and more. Fishers Canyon Master …

1
Managing Protected Areas 34:13

4M ago34:13

34:13

"Part of the narrative that we find ourselves in is talking about creating areas that are protected for people, not from people." Key Moments 02:57 Conservation and Community Participation 05:29 Rethinking Conservation Strategies 14:57 Conservation Training in Latin America 17:22 International Conservation Collaboration 22:05 Importance of Nature o…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

National Recreation And Park Association Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

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