Best National Recreation and Park Association Podcasts (2025)

1
Matt Villamaino Joins Tim Merriman and Bill Gwaltney Today on Reflections on Interpretation 49:44

1d ago49:44

49:44

Matt Villamaino has worked in the interpretive field for over 15 years, not counting the dinosaur museum he and a friend started in his basement at age 8. He currently works for the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation as the Regional Interpretive Coordinator for the Central Region. He is a Certified Interpretive Trainer, Planner…

1
Virginia’s Adventure Towns: Martinsville – Blueways, Trails, Camping and more in the Foothills of the Blue Ridge with Anna Wheeler and Brian Williams, Dan River Basin Association (Ep 75, Part 2) 34:50

5d ago34:50

34:50

Tucked into the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Martinsville reveals itself as an unexpected paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Anna Wheeler and Brian Williams from the Dan River Basin Association share their intimate knowledge of this small city with its outsized adventure potential. The Smith River Blueway provides 45 miles of accessible pa…

1
Centering Community and Connection at Anacostia Park — Episode 169 48:23

5d ago48:23

48:23

Earlier this spring, we had the chance to attend an incredible event in Washington, D.C., where we caught up with Akiima Price, co-founder and program advisor for Friends of Anacostia Park — an organization with a mission to enrich the lives of D.C. residents by preserving the park and connecting the surrounding communities to its restoration. We m…

1
Virginia’s Adventure Towns: Martinsville – Blueways, Trails, Camping and more in the Foothills of the Blue Ridge with Anna Wheeler and Brian Williams, Dan River Basin Association (Ep 75, Part 1) 34:31

12d ago34:31

34:31

Tucked into the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Martinsville reveals itself as an unexpected paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Anna Wheeler and Brian Williams from the Dan River Basin Association share their intimate knowledge of this small city with its outsized adventure potential. The Smith River Blueway provides 45 miles of accessible pa…

1
David Larsen's Legacy for Interpretive Training 1:10:02

17d ago1:10:02

1:10:02

David Larsen (1960-2011) was a National Park Service Interpretive Ranger who became the Manager of Interpretive Training with National Park Service (NPS) at The Mather Employee Development Center. After many years as a frontline interpreter at sites such as the the Vietnam Memorial and Harper's Ferry National Historic Park, David stepped up to beco…

1
Wild Cave Adventures in Virginia State Parks (Ep 74, Pt 2) 22:45

18d ago22:45

22:45

Descend with us into Virginia's spectacular underworld as we explore the hidden realm of wild caves. Unlike commercial show caves, wild caves offer an authentic adventure where nature remains largely untouched. Virginia State Parks’ ranger-led caving programs provide the perfect gateway into this mysterious environment. Ranger Erin Pitts from New R…

1
Wild Cave Adventures in Virginia State Parks (Ep 74, Pt 1) 25:32

26d ago25:32

25:32

Descend with us into Virginia's spectacular underworld as we explore the hidden realm of wild caves. Unlike commercial show caves, wild caves offer an authentic adventure where nature remains largely untouched. Virginia State Parks’ ranger-led caving programs provide the perfect gateway into this mysterious environment. Ranger Erin Pitts from New R…

1
Tim Merriman is interviewed by Bill Gwaltney about the HEART Train the Trainers Program 22:43

1M ago22:43

22:43

Today Tim Merriman is interviewed by Bill Gwaltney about the HEART Train the Trainers Program. This innovative new training program for the fundamentals of the interpretive approach to communication began in October of 2024 and is now being used by many experienced trainers as a more affordable approach to training new hires, seasonal guides, docen…

1
Virginia’s Adventure Towns: Big Stone Gap – Mountains, Music, and Culture with Town Manager Steve Lawson (Ep 73, Part 2) 22:34

1M ago22:34

22:34

The mountains of Appalachia wrap around Big Stone Gap like a warm embrace, creating a community where outdoor adventure, history, and culture converge. Town Manager, Steve Lawson, describes how the community has transformed from its coal mining roots into a vibrant outdoor recreation destination. The town's crown jewel is the Greenbelt Trail, a sce…

1
Virginia’s Adventure Towns: Big Stone Gap – Mountains, Music, and Culture with Town Manager Steve Lawson (Ep 73, Part 1) 29:49

1M ago29:49

29:49

The mountains of Appalachia wrap around Big Stone Gap like a warm embrace, creating a community where outdoor adventure, history, and culture converge. Town Manager, Steve Lawson, describes how the community has transformed from its coal mining roots into a vibrant outdoor recreation destination. The town's crown jewel is the Greenbelt Trail, a sce…

1
Introducing Guardians of Greenspaces — Episode 168 51:21

1M ago51:21

51:21

Happy Earth Month! On today’s episode, we’re excited to share a collaboration with NRPA’s new podcast, Guardians of Greenspaces. Guardians of Greenspaces is a podcast focused on conservation from a park and recreation maintenance lens. Hosted by Rukmini Kalamangalam, a program specialist on NRPA’s community and environmental resilience team, Guardi…

1
Toby Merriman Talks Story about Artificial Intelligence with Interpretive Trainers 1:09:08

1M ago1:09:08

1:09:08

Toby Merriman is the Acting Director of Center for Virtual Expression at Southern Illinois University (SIU). He and his staff assist faculty at SIU in the uses of Artificial Intelligence, Virtual Reality and Gamification in teaching university students, who so readily employ these new tools. Join Monique Thompson, Clark Hancock, Rosemary Prince, An…

1
Camp-Ready: My Ultimate Packing Checklist + Road Trip Recap (Ep 72) 40:19

2M ago40:19

40:19

Planning your next camping trip? Let’s take the guesswork out of packing! In this episode, I’m sharing my go-to camping checklist — everything I bring to the campground, from essential supplies and food prep to personal items you won’t want to forget. Plus, get a behind-the-scenes look at my recent road trip across Virginia as I scout out new adven…

1
Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park, The Parks Podcast (Bonus Episode) 41:47

2M ago41:47

41:47

I'm often asked for park recommendations both inside and outside of Virginia. Like you, I'm always looking for a great weekend hike or campground, but also setting my sights on new places to visit on longer trips. One of my favorite resources for new parks to explore is The Parks Podcast, hosted by my friend and Richmond local, Missy Rentz. Missy f…

1
Trainers Talk Story on Reflections on Interpretation with Tim Merriman and Bill Gwaltney 1:15:22

2M ago1:15:22

1:15:22

Interpretive Trainers are our guests this week on Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters. Karin Hostetter, Robert Smith, Jamie Hubert, Clark Hancock, Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman discuss the economic changes affecting training, the challenges of training large numbers of docents, seasonal workers and frontline s…

1
Wilderness Survival Skills That Could Save Your Life When You’re Lost, Injured, or Stranded with Tim MacWelch, Advanced Survival Training (Ep 71, Part 2) 33:02

2M ago33:02

33:02

Could your outdoor adventure turn into a survival situation? In this eye-opening conversation with wilderness expert Tim MacWelch of Advanced Survival Training, we dive into the essential skills and knowledge that could mean the difference between life and death when venturing into Virginia's beautiful but sometimes unforgiving wilderness. Tim shar…

1
Celebrating Women’s History Month in Parks and Recreation — Episode 167 39:11

2M ago39:11

39:11

On this episode of Open Space Radio, we’re celebrating the incredible women in parks and recreation who are shaping the profession and making a difference in their communities. Women have long played a vital role in parks and recreation – but it has historically been a male-dominated industry. Today, the leadership and presence of women in the prof…

1
Wilderness Survival Skills That Could Save Your Life When You’re Lost, Injured, or Stranded with Tim MacWelch, Advanced Survival Training (Ep 71, Part 1) 39:43

2M ago39:43

39:43

Could your outdoor adventure turn into a survival situation? In this eye-opening conversation with wilderness expert Tim MacWelch of Advanced Survival Training, we dive into the essential skills and knowledge that could mean the difference between life and death when venturing into Virginia's beautiful but sometimes unforgiving wilderness. Tim shar…

1
NPS (former) Director Bob Stanton Talks Story with Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman 50:06

2M ago50:06

50:06

With nearly four decades of experience with the National Park Service (NPS), Robert G. Stanton has an unmatched depth of experience about the Agency from top to bottom. Born in Fort Worth, Texas, Robert Stanton’s experience growing up in an African American community and the need to deal with Race and Racism brought a special focus to his life and …

1
Ten Spring Adventures in Virginia to Add to Your Travel Plans (Ep 70, Part 2) 32:41

2M ago32:41

32:41

Episode 70 marks a milestone for Virginia Outdoor Adventures podcast, celebrating nearly five years of epic adventures across the Commonwealth. Looking back, I reflect on the incredible diversity of Virginia's outdoor offerings – from whale watching and caving to kayaking and secluded island camping. These adventures have consistently showcased exp…

1
Ten Spring Adventures in Virginia to Add to Your Travel Plans (Ep 70, Part 1) 31:13

3M ago31:13

31:13

Episode 70 marks a milestone for Virginia Outdoor Adventures podcast, celebrating nearly five years of epic adventures across the Commonwealth. Looking back, I reflect on the incredible diversity of Virginia's outdoor offerings – from whale watching and caving to kayaking and secluded island camping. These adventures have consistently showcased exp…

1
Connie Rudd, Former NPS Interpreter and Superintendent Talks Story with Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman 40:45

3M ago40:45

40:45

Born during a snowstorm in Ft. Riley, Kansas, Connie's adventurous spirit was kindled from the start. This early connection to winter led to a passion for sled dog racing with her purebred Samoyed team, a venture she pursued for 20 years across the United States. Raised in Athens, Ohio, Connie developed a love for reading that sparked her imaginati…

1
Mighty Blue on the Appalachian Trail, Host Steve Adams on Thru Hiking in Virginia (Bonus Episode) 12:48

3M ago12:48

12:48

This week I’m sharing a conversation I had with my friend, Steve Adams, or known by his trail name, Mighty Blue. Steve is an AT thru hiker and host of the popular podcast, Mighty Blue on the Appalachian Trail, The Ultimate Midlife Crisis. I find Steve’s podcast inspirational for hikers and non-hikers alike. Steve interviews thru hikers while they a…

1
Youth Sports: If She Can See It, She Can Be It — Episode 166 33:30

3M ago33:30

33:30

On this episode of Open Space Radio, we explore the critical role that parks and recreation plays in advancing sports opportunities for all youth — especially girls. Providing these opportunities is more than just fairness; it’s about giving girls the opportunities and support they need to succeed, both on and off the field. Participation in sports…

1
John Steinle, Museum Curator and Living History Specialist, Talks Story with Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman 45:38

3M ago45:38

45:38

John Steinle, originally from Hamilton, Ohio, earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Dayton. After several years as a commercial artist, he switched careers to history. He obtained a master’s degree in Museum and Archival Management from Wright State University and worked as a Curator and Archivist at the Cincinnati Art Museum and …

1
Forest Bathing and the Power of Nature Connection with Ana Ka’ahanui, Capital Nature (Ep 69 Part 2) 28:32

3M ago28:32

28:32

Immerse yourself in nature’s healing embrace with the transformative power of forest bathing. Ana Ka’ahanui, co-founder of Capital Nature, uncovers the secrets behind this mindfulness practice rooted in Japanese culture. More than just a walk among the trees, Ana shares how forest bathing can lower blood pressure, enhance creativity, and offer a sa…

1
Forest Bathing and the Power of Nature Connection with Ana Ka’ahanui, Capital Nature (Ep 69 Part 1) 29:27

4M ago29:27

29:27

Immerse yourself in nature’s healing embrace with the transformative power of forest bathing. Ana Ka’ahanui, co-founder of Capital Nature, uncovers the secrets behind this mindfulness practice rooted in Japanese culture. More than just a walk among the trees, Ana shares how forest bathing can lower blood pressure, enhance creativity, and offer a sa…

1
Michael Watson, Former NPS Chief of Interpretation, Talks Story with Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman 42:52

4M ago42:52

42:52

Michael Watson began his career as a High School Intern at a Minute Man Missile Plant, a Mister Softee Ice Cream Truck Driver, 4-H Camp Naturalist, and Naturalist at Burr Oak State Park (OH). After graduating from The Ohio State University (1967), he became a Science Teacher in the Marion (OH) Public School System (1967-1971). His National Park Ser…

1
Winter Adventures in Virginia: Whale Watching, Stargazing, Ice Climbing, Caving, Wildlife Watching, and more (Ep 68 Part 2) 25:47

4M ago25:47

25:47

Start planning your next epic winter adventure like whale watching in Virginia Beach, stargazing in one of Virginia’s Dark Sky Parks, wild caving in Virginia’s Karst Region, Ice Climbing in the Blue Ridge, or winter wildlife watching in person or on a wildlife webcam. Also, in Part 2 of this solo episode, I share where you can find me live and in p…

1
Fan Mail Bag, Gear Discounts, Parks Advocacy Day Recap (Ep 68, Part 1) 18:31

4M ago18:31

18:31

Jessica answers podcast fan mail, shares discounts for outdoor gear, and recaps Parks Advocacy Day in Richmond. Follow VAOA Podcast: Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store! VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by: Virginia Association for Parks Breaks Interstate Park Virgini…

1
Rob Pacheco, Hawaii Forest & Trail Founder, Talks Story with Tim Merriman and Bill Gwaltney 43:20

4M ago43:20

43:20

Rob Pacheco's journey began in California, where he spent his formative years assisting a local beekeeper and fostering a deep curiosity for the nature around him. At the University of Colorado, Rob enrolled in a multi-disciplinary environmental program while beekeeping for researchers studying honey bee genetics. He moved to the Big Island of Hawa…

1
Conquering Resolutions: Setting Outdoor Goals and Challenges for the New Year with Alejandra Villanueva, Girls Who Hike Virginia (Ep 67, Part 2) 34:36

4M ago34:36

34:36

It’s that time of year when we set intentions for the future. Will your resolutions be outdoorsy? Alejandra Villanueva of the hiking community, Girls Who Hike Virginia, shares the story of her ambitious pursuit to hike Old Rag Mountain 36 times before the end of 2024. Her remarkable journey beautifully intertwined her love of hiking with the transf…

1
Mentoring: A Positive Impact for All — Episode 165 53:38

4M ago53:38

53:38

Pictured: Teen Leaders in the HYPE program at City of Mesa Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities participate in an exercise to overcome obstacles. Photo courtesy of Blythe Brown. Did you know that 74 percent of adults who were mentored as youth say their mentor contributed significantly to their success in life? Now, consider that more than 1 …

1
Conquering Resolutions: Setting Outdoor Goals and Challenges for the New Year with Alejandra Villanueva, Girls Who Hike Virginia (Ep 67, Part 1) 35:11

5M ago35:11

35:11

It’s that time of year when we set intentions for the future. Will your resolutions be outdoorsy? Alejandra Villanueva of the hiking community, Girls Who Hike Virginia, shares the story of her ambitious pursuit to hike Old Rag Mountain 36 times before the end of 2024. Her remarkable journey beautifully intertwined her love of hiking with the transf…

1
ET Collinsworth, Cowboy Poet and Storyteller, Talks Story with Tim Merriman and Bill Gwaltney 43:59

5M ago43:59

43:59

Join Tim Merriman and Bill Gwaltney on Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story for an engaging conversation with author, photographer, mule packer, storyteller, and cowboy poet E.T. Collinsworth. Together, they will explore E.T.'s remarkable life, adventures, and experiences on both sides of the border. E.T. Collinsworth hails from Tennessee b…

1
Parks Advocacy Day: Be a Champion for Our State Parks with Michelle Schopp, Virginia Association for Parks (Special Edition Episode) 24:16

5M ago24:16

24:16

In this special edition episode, I invited Michelle Schopp to share her first Parks Advocacy Day experience. Less than a year ago, Michelle was in the early stages of her Trail Quest journey to visit all of Virginia’s state parks. When she learned about Parks Advocacy Day through this podcast, she immediately reached out and asked to participate. H…

1
Walt Dabney, Former NPS Superintendent, Talks Story with Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman 52:27

5M ago52:27

52:27

Immerse yourself in an enlightening conversation with Walt Dabney, a distinguished former National Park Service Superintendent, NPS Chief Ranger, and ex-Director of Texas State Parks. Walt's illustrious career spans decades, marked by his significant contributions to both our cherished National Parks and the Texas State Parks system. Early in his t…

1
Reflecting on 2024: A Year of Inspiring Park and Recreation Stories — Episode 164 1:02:55

6M ago1:02:55

1:02:55

It’s our final episode of Open Space Radio for 2024! Did you know we released 15 episodes this year and talked with 27 amazing community leaders for a whopping 758 minutes of conversation (more than 12 hours!) about the power of parks and recreation? Thank you to everyone who joined us on the show to share their story this year and to everyone who …

1
Susan Marie Frontczak, Living History Interpreter, Talks Story with Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman 46:48

6M ago46:48

46:48

This week on Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters our guest is Susan Marie Frontczak. Storysmith® Susan Marie Frontczak's deeply researched Living History programs are the center of her repertoire. In her programs as Marie Curie, Mary Shelley, Eleanor Roosevelt, Irene Castle, Erma Bombeck and Clara Barton, Susan…

1
Gear for Good: Secondhand Consignment Gear for Sustainable and Accessible Adventures with April Peterson, River Rock Outfitter (Ep 65) 39:12

6M ago39:12

39:12

What if you could acquire the outdoor gear you need for your epic adventures without breaking the bank or contributing to the fast fashion and throwaway culture? Or what if you could declutter your closets and earn some cash for the gear you aren’t using? April Peterson, owner of River Rock Outfitter in Fredericksburg, shares why secondhand and con…

1
Behind the Scenes of Virginia Outdoor Adventures: Guest Appearance on Second Act Sucess Career Podcast (Bonus Episode) 40:04

6M ago40:04

40:04

I’m often asked how I got started podcasting, how I pivoted from education to entrepreneurship, and what it takes to run a podcast as a small business. I was delighted to sit down for a conversation with my friend, Shannon Russell, career coach and host of Second Act Success Career Podcast. I’m excited to share my guest appearance on her show where…

1
Dr. Lonnie Bunch, Secretary of Smithsonian Institution, Talks Story with Bill Gwaltney 57:19

6M ago57:19

57:19

Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Interpreters and Guides was honored to recently interview Dr. Lonnie G. Bunch III, the 14th Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution—and its first African American and first historian to hold the position. Born in Newark, New Jersey, in 1952 to educators Lonnie II and Montrose Bunch, Dr. Bunch earne…

1
Virginia’s Adventure Towns: Onancock – Paddling, Boating, Fishing, and Camping the Eastern Shore with Mary and Bill Burnham, Burnham Guides (Ep 64, Part 2) 22:04

6M ago22:04

22:04

This is part 2 of a two-part episode. Check your podcast listening app for part 1. What if you could explore a destination that's off the beaten path yet brimming with natural beauty and cultural treasures? Discover the hidden gem of historic Onancock on Virginia’s Eastern Shore as we set sail with ecotour guides Mary and Bill Burnham, owners of Bu…

1
Virginia’s Adventure Towns: Onancock – Paddling, Boating, Fishing, and Camping the Eastern Shore with Mary and Bill Burnham, Burnham Guides (Ep 64, Part 1) 31:30

6M ago31:30

31:30

What if you could explore a destination that's off the beaten path yet brimming with natural beauty and cultural treasures? Discover the hidden gem of historic Onancock on Virginia’s Eastern Shore as we set sail with ecotour guides Mary and Bill Burnham, owners of Burnham Guides paddling shop. Our guests share their insider knowledge of this waterf…

1
Juan Castaing, Chilean Interpretive Guide and Trainer Talks Story with Tim Merriman 42:38

7M ago42:38

42:38

Juan Castaing, a Chilean Interpretive Guide and Trainer, specializes in heritage interpretation, media and hospitality services. He has been combining ecotourism and communication for more than 20 years. His expertise lies in effectively communicating and managing cultural experiences, particularly those blending nature and culture. Castaing offers…

1
Haunted Hikes, Cabin Gear Packing List, Backpacking and First Aid Gear Discounts, Podcast Behind the Scenes, Fan Mail Bag, and more (Ep 63, Part 2) 28:59

7M ago28:59

28:59

In part 2 of this two-part episode, I’ll share highlights from my latest newsletter, featuring discounts on backpacking and first aid gear. We’ll wrap up with a complete list of everything included in my cabin stay bag, to help you prepare for your own park visit. In case you missed Part 1, Join me for a spine-tingling episode filled with spooky st…

1
Sustainability and Environmental Resilience in Parks — Episode 163 56:30

7M ago56:30

56:30

Sustainability and Environmental Resilience in Parks — Episode 163 On today’s episode of Open Space Radio, I’m excited to share our collab episode with GovLove Podcast, which we recorded live back in October at the 2024 NRPA Annual Conference. This was our first live episode recording — with an audience. So, besides the obvious nerves that came alo…

1
Haunted Hikes, Cabin Gear Packing List, Backpacking and First Aid Gear Discounts, Podcast Behind the Scenes, Fan Mail Bag, and more (Ep 63, Part 1) 32:40

7M ago32:40

32:40

Join me for a spine-tingling episode filled with spooky stories from a haunted hike— perfect for those who love a good thrill! Plus, we’ll dive into your fan mail, so keep those messages coming by clicking on “Send Jessica a Text Message!” in your show notes. Tune in next week for part 2 when we’ll catch up on my recent adventures, including a resc…

1
Kathe Hambrick, Author & Interpreter, Talks Story with Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman 52:46

7M ago52:46

52:46

Kathe Hambrick is Executive Director of the Amistad Research Center in Louisiana. In this role, Hambrick sees an opportunity to mentor and shape a new generation of curators, archivists, and digitization specialists. The mission of the Amistad Research Center is to "collect, preserve, and provide access to original documents that highlight the soci…

1
Virginia's Venomous and Nonvenomous Snakes: Hiking Safety, Myths, and Appreciation with Caroline Seitz, Virginia Herpetological Society (Ep 62, Part 2) 33:47

7M ago33:47

33:47

We’re slithering into the fascinating world of Virginia’s snakes, equipping you with practical tips to enjoy the great outdoors while respecting these often-misunderstood creatures. In Part 2 of this two-part episode, Caroline Seitz of the Virginia Herpetological Society, helps us dispel common myths and misconceptions while broadening our understa…

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