Park Leaders Show

"Parks are about relationships. With your team, your communities, your partners. That's what sustains leadership over time." Notable Moments 00:01:03 – Lisa shares her unconventional path into parks leadership 00:05:38 – Why relationships are the key to long-term success as a director 00:09:03 – The value of national peer networks for park leaders 00:13:18 – How visitor behavior has changed since the pandemic 00:15:12 – Adapting parks without losing their purpose 00:24:02 – Leading through budget shortfalls with transparency 00:29:18 – What Oregon State Parks does better than anyone else 00:30:33 – Advice for emerging park leaders In this episode, Jody Maberry talks with Lisa Sumption, Director of Oregon State Parks, about long-term leadership, teamwork, and navigating change in modern park systems. Strong park systems aren't built on policies alone. They're built on trust, teamwork, and relationships that last. Leadership rooted in people, not ego, makes all the difference. Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/  

"When people see fire only as destruction, we miss the opportunity to understand it and to prepare for what's coming next." Notable Moments [00:01:19] Using photography to educate the public [00:02:50] Recognizing public land employees as serving the country [00:07:23] First experience photographing wildfire at night [00:10:29] Importance of wildfire training for media [00:16:14] Benefits of documenting fires from inside incidents [00:29:56] Why media access on public land matters [00:39:23] How wildfire scale has changed over a decade [00:44:56] Advice for making an impact as a park leader As wildfires grow in scale and impact, understanding becomes a form of preparedness. In parks and conservation this sometimes means letting people see what's really happening, even when it's uncomfortable. Stuart Palley has spent more than a decade documenting wildfires across public and urban lands. Our conversation explores how media can educate the public when done responsibly, the importance of safety training for photographers, and why transparency on public land fires matters. Read the blog for more from this episode.  Connect with Stuart Palley Order Into the Inferno: A Photographer's Journey Through California's Mega Fires Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/  

"Sometimes one experience is all it takes to awaken a new passion." Notable Moments [00:02] Chris shares his outdoor roots in New Zealand and Australia [00:02:19] How Impact Destinations blends travel and philanthropy [00:03:32] Rhino relocation as a once-in-a-lifetime conservation experience [00:04:29] Identifying endangered species and forming partnerships [00:06:34] The start of Hands Up Holidays and early volunteer work [00:09:44] Why Chris shifted from volunteering to philanthropy [00:11:37] Conservation efforts in Costa Rica and Chile [00:16:52] A traveler inspired to support multiple conservation projects [00:18:41] Advice for people who want to make an impact Christopher Hill shares how Impact Destinations connects travelers with wildlife conservation projects through philanthropy. He explains how this model supports experts on the ground while giving travelers rare behind-the-scenes experiences such as rhino relocation, orangutan rescue, shark conservation, and more. He also discusses how these experiences often spark long-term commitment to conservation and offers advice for people who want to make an impact. Read the blog for more from this episode. Connect with Christopher https://impactdestinations.com/ Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/  

"The more we can let people know, the better it is for the wolves, the better it is for our conservation efforts." Notable Moments [00:02:29] How Monica discovered the Wolf Conservation Center [00:03:30] Understanding endangered wolf subspecies and conservation efforts [00:04:18] Role of pup-nanny caretakers [00:05:50] Rare wolf sightings and population challenges [00:08:14] How public education connects people to conservation [00:12:55] The miracle wolf pup, Trumpet, and her powerful genetic story [00:15:41] Turning a single idea into a multi-book series [00:19:25] Taking action instead of stopping at curiosity [00:21:39] Ways anyone can support conservation efforts Author and Wolf Conservation Center volunteer Monica Stahlman joins the show to share the remarkable real-life story behind Trumpet, the miracle Mexican gray wolf pup. Monica discusses her path from volunteer to children's book author, the critical work of wolf recovery programs, and the many ways people can support conservation from wherever they are. Connect with Monica Stahlman https://brileybaxterbooks.com/author-leokadia-george/ Wold Conservation Center Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/

"When you create a thriving ecosystem  you'll have people that are motivated to go and do good work, move your organization forward, and make an impact on the people and resources that you serve." Notable Moments 03:20 – How a riverfront festival connected thousands to conservation. 04:38 – Leadership through the lens of ecology explained. 07:32 – What workshops reveal when taken outdoors. 09:12 – The podcast's evolution from Outdoor Executive Dad to Parks and Restoration. 16:25 – Highlights from the "Next Level Leadership" episode. 18:30 – The mindset shift from hustle to balance. 20:25 – Moving from "it's about you" to "it's about your team." 21:26 – Topics coming soon to Parks and Restoration. 24:34 – Why more park leadership podcasts help the entire industry. 25:15 – Where to find Chris Lee and his work. Jody reconnects with Chris Lee, Executive Director of Des Moines County Conservation and co-host of the Parks and Restoration podcast. They explore the evolution of Chris's show, the role of ecological concepts in leadership, and the importance of collaboration in conservation work. The conversation highlights major mindset shifts for leaders, the value of co-hosting, and upcoming themes Chris plans to explore as he approaches episode 100. Read the blog for more from this episode. Connect with Chris Lee Chrisleeventures.com Parks and Restoration Podcast Parks and Restoration Episode 78 Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/  

"Disruptive innovation in parks rarely starts big. It's often the small changes that reshape how people connect with the outdoors." Episode Highlights 00:42 How a small cooler forever changed camping and visitation. 05:23 – RVs and modern camping units disrupt campgrounds built in the 1930s. 09:13 – Digital platforms can drive unexpected visitor surges. 10:52 –Reshaping reservation systems and campsite use. 14:44 – Why leaders must act, not react when disruptive innovations emerge. 15:50 – QR codes, drones, and geocaching are examples of disruptive tech in action. 21:37 – Monitoring trends to keep parks relevant. 25:34 – Shifting demographics and expectations require adaptation, not resistance. 27:35 – Small steps of change often matter more than sweeping cultural shifts. Disruptive innovations don't always arive with fanfare. In fact, they tend to be more subtle. In parks its the seemingly small coolers, gadgets, or trends that change everything. This conversation explores how small shifts reshape recreation, why leaders must act rather than react, and how to spot the next disruption before it takes hold. Read the blog for more from this episode.  Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/    

"Fear often comes from not knowing. Once you take time to learn, fear can turn into respect." Notable Moments [00:02:22] Doug shares his curiosity-driven adventures in Mexico and Russia. [00:05:00] The challenge of endless progress on a finite planet. [00:07:18] Why wilderness is essential for grizzlies and for us. [00:09:34] Tracking wildlife movement near highway corridors. [00:18:55] The lasting influence of The Monkey Wrench Gang. [00:28:02] How our treatment of bears reflects how we see ourselves. [00:29:08] A family's shift from fear of grizzlies to awe and respect. [00:31:10] The need for united action to defend wilderness and parks. Conservationist and author Doug Peacock returns to share stories from a lifetime spent in wilderness. From grizzlies in Yellowstone to tigers in Russia, Doug reflects on the threats facing wild places and the fight to protect them. He offers hard truths, hopeful lessons, and a reminder that humility is at the heart of conservation. Read the blog for more from this episode.  More from Doug Peacock Books by Doug Peacock Order the book Was It Worth It? A Wilderness Warrior's Long Trail Home Order the book Grizzly Years Order the book The Monkey Wrench Gang by Edward Abbey, 25th anniversary edition with introduction by Doug Peacock Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/

"Sometimes steady leadership, or keeping the park on course, is the most important thing we can offer." Notable Moments [00:01:00] Jon's work with the Parks Institute at UC Berkeley [00:02:20] International consulting and training park managers abroad [00:04:15] Encouragement for park leaders during uncertain times [00:08:30] Lessons from history and why tough times lead to renewal [00:13:28] The balance between risk-taking and steady leadership [00:17:40] Revisiting the idea of a standalone National Park Service [00:21:54] Jon's vision for the future of national parks [00:28:53] Reforming concessions and improving visitor experience [00:30:39] Lessons from international park systems [00:33:27] The role of parks in healing and uniting a divided nation Former National Park Service Director Jon Jarvis joins Jody Maberry to share insights on the challenges and future of national parks. They discuss lessons from history, the importance of steady leadership, and how partnerships, Indigenous relationships, and global perspectives shape the path ahead. Jon offers encouragement to current park leaders navigating uncertain times while painting a vision of resilience and renewal for the future. Read the blog for more from this episode.  Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/  

"Every contact we have is an opportunity to build or destroy a relationship." Notable Moments [00:02:00] – Why law enforcement consistently ranks among the most debated topics in parks [00:06:20] – Chip's background, love for the outdoors, and how nature shaped his perspective [00:08:16] – The assumption that all rangers are law enforcement officers [00:11:00] – How uniforms and appearance influence public perception of park rangers [00:18:55] – The importance of branding, presence, and professionalism [00:22:35] – Lessons from SWAT about shifting how officers show up in communities [00:27:29] – The risks rangers face when authority is assumed but not backed by training or tools [00:33:11] – Why connection and trust must remain the primary role of law enforcement in any setting [00:37:54] – The reminder that passion and authenticity cannot be faked in public service [00:43:56] – Chip's insight: there are no perfect solutions, only trade-offs [00:45:35] – Leadership as the key to finding common ground and balancing priorities Law enforcement in parks sparks some of the strongest debates in conservation leadership. In this episode, Jody Maberry and Phil Gaines welcome retired Kansas City Police Major Chip Huth to unpack the complexities of blending ranger identity with law enforcement responsibility. Chip shares how presence, professionalism, and human connection outweigh authority, and why leadership must embrace trade-offs rather than chase perfect solutions. Read the blog for more from this episode. Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/  

"You take care of the people, and they will take care of the park." Notable Moments [00:01:26] Introduction to the four types of park managers [00:02:04] Deep dive into People First management [00:14:24] Park First leadership and its focus on stewardship [00:26:56] Process Driven management: pros, cons, and structure [00:36:14] Personality Driven management and its unpredictable nature [00:45:14] Phil's insight: success is found in a hybrid model In this episode, Jody Maberry and Phil Gaines explore the four primary types of park managers: People First, Park First, Process Driven, and Personality Driven. They reflect on the advantages and cautions of each style while sharing personal stories and leadership lessons. They emphasize the importance of authenticity and the value of blending leadership approaches to best serve parks, staff, and visitors. Read the blog for more from this episode. Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/

 "Every park has trees and trails. What makes people come back is you." Notable Moments [00:03:05] – Starting the keynote, the outhouse story that sparked an award [00:07:24] – Transition from financial analyst to ranger life [00:14:07] – Pandemic pressure and park visitation boom [00:19:02] – Shifting from surviving to thriving post-2020 [00:26:49] – Importance of all roles: field and office [00:30:01] – Why park staff are the defining feature of any park [00:33:20] – Difference between "learned" and "earned" park stories [00:38:27] – Parks' impact on quality of life, not just economy [00:42:41] – Michigan's leadership in innovation and conservation [00:47:44] – The importance of gatherings like in-service Jody Maberry delivers his full keynote from the Michigan DNR in-service gathering, reflecting on the theme "Back to the Future of Parks." He shares memorable stories and lessons from his time as a park ranger, during the pandemic, and how park professionals can shape the future of outdoor spaces. With humor, humility, and heartfelt appreciation, this talk highlights the power of people, the importance of public lands, and the irreplaceable value of every role in the park system. Read the blog for more from this episode.  Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/  

"Too often today everything is tech and screens… but picking up a book, putting on a pair of glasses, and seeing something really cool—it's inspiring and fun." Notable Moments: 00:03 – Dave's early love for camping and the outdoors 04:47 – How 3D photography became part of his storytelling 08:44 – Behind the scenes of the Theodore Roosevelt 3D photo 11:22 – Overview of parks included in the book 13:43 – Hidden gem tip for Acadia National Park 17:20 – How kids reacted to the 3D book 21:04 – Leadership advice: "Say yes, then figure it out" 24:55 – Dave's website and Skull Rock Podcast Jody Maberry welcomes Disney animator turned author Dave Bossert to discuss his immersive book 3D National Parks Like You've Never Seen Them Before. Dave shares how the project was inspired by View-Masters, the magic of 3D photography, and the importance of sparking curiosity about parks, especially for kids who may not have visited one. The episode also touches on leadership lessons from the animation world and how saying "yes" opens new doors. Read the blog for more from this episode on the website.  Connect with Dave Bossert Order the book 3D National Parks Like You've Never Seen Them Before For Direct orders contact Inquiry@theoldmillpress.com Dave's Website: https://www.davidbossert.com Listen to the Skull Rock Podcast Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/

"National parks are sacred not because of what we build, but because of what we protect." Notable Moments [00:00:20.320] Introduction of Sacred Landscapes [00:01:23.010] Sam's unexpected inspiration to write the book [00:08:14.120] The emotional transformation of spending years on the road [00:18:03.540] National parks vs. theme parks — how they serve the public differently [00:31:45.600] Designing places that spark reverence [00:49:45.430] The legacy Sam hopes Sacred Landscapes will leave In this episode, author and National Park volunteer Sam Gennawey shares stories from his six-year, 175,000-mile van life journey through U.S. national parks. Known for his writing on theme parks and urban planning, Sam offers a fresh perspective on the intentional design and emotional power of natural spaces. He discusses the origins of his new book Sacred Landscapes, the personal transformation of long-term travel, and the connection between preserving spaces and creating meaningful human experiences. Read the blog for more from this episode. Connect with Sam Gennawey Get the book Sacred Landscapes Discover Books by Sam Gennawey Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/  

"You don't have to come from parks to lead in parks. But you do have to embrace the culture, listen, and lead with purpose." Notable Moments [00:02:00] Starting out as a seasonal worker builds a foundation [00:03:40] Promoting park managers without prior experience [00:05:18] Success stories of hiring from outside the park system [00:08:48] Benefits of diverse backgrounds in leadership [00:14:50] Importance of honoring legacy while bringing fresh ideas [00:21:34] Staying close to your point of service [00:23:00] Advice from Lee Cockerell: take notes and observe early Can someone manage a park without ever having worked in one? Jody Maberry and Phil Gaines say "yes" and explain why in this listener-inspired episode. They received an email from Freddie, a new park manager in New York with no prior park experience. Together they unpack how fresh perspectives, paired with respect for legacy, can benefit any park system. Phil shares stories of success when hiring "off the street" and reinforces the importance of staying close to your point of service. Jody offers insight from his own unconventional journey into parks and highlights why diversity of thought can be just as valuable as field experience. Whether you're brand new or decades deep, this episode is a reminder to lead with intention, learn from the people you serve, and never lose sight of your North Star. Read the blog for more from this episode. Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/  

"Storytelling is the bridge between awe and understanding, whether you're in a theme park or a national park." Notable Moments 01:05 – Bob's national park road trip that shaped his worldview 05:24 – "Recreation" vs. "Re-creation": the true power of parks 06:10 – Walt Disney's advice: walk the park, observe the guests 08:41 – How Disney draws inspiration from national parks 12:19 – Gaps in concessionaire storytelling at national park lodges 14:51 – Bob's advice for elevating the lodge experience 16:15 – Lessons from Kennedy Space Center concessions 20:39 – Making food and retail part of the park's story 28:16 – Advice for up-and-coming park leaders 32:14 – Why rangers are just as iconic as Disney cast members  In this inspiring conversation, Bob Weis, former president of Walt Disney Imagineering, joins to explore the intersection of themed and natural parks. In his new book, Dream Chasing, Bob discusses how his childhood road trip to national parks shaped his creative path and what natural park leaders can learn from theme park storytelling. From immersive lodge experiences to the role of frontline staff, this episode offers practical and visionary ideas for elevating the park guest experience. Read the blog for more from this episode. Connect with Bob Weis www.bobweis.com Order the book – Dream Chasing Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/  

"When you truly love a place, you do whatever it takes to protect it, even if it takes a decade." Notable Moments 00:01:04 Meeting Rodrigo and Jose 00:02:03 Rodrigo shares how a simple question sparked conservation 00:07:15 Jose explains fighting the first hydroelectric project 00:20:54 What happens after the land is protected 00:32:04 The significance of the ancient Alerce tree Jody Maberry recounts his unforgettable trip to Chile's Cochamó Valley, especially meeting Rodrigo Condeza and Jose Claro. Together, they have spent over a decade fighting to stop hydroelectric dams and irresponsible development in Pucheguin. Their efforts highlight the power of dedication and community-led conservation. Listen to hear about their battles, the unique Alerce trees, historic trails, and the vision for balancing wilderness protection with community livelihood and responsible tourism. Read the blog for more from this episode.  Episode Resources Puelo Patagonia: puelopatagonia.cl Conserva Pucheguin Project: conservapucheguin.org Connect with Jody www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/  

"The only way you're going to save the world is with a damn good story." Notable Moments 02:13 – Jeff's origin story: how a zoo letter changed his life 04:47 – Radical collaboration and partnerships across conservation groups 06:31 – Story of Pueblo Patagonia and local leadership in Chile 13:16 – Big change starts with one local champion 17:26 – Why storytelling is essential to conservation success 24:16 – Gabon's 30x30x30x30 model and protecting rivers, too 26:14 – Partnering with Disney for the Lion Recovery Fund 33:18 – Jody's zoo and creek story: early sparks of passion 37:52 – Jeff's advice for new park leaders: seek diverse experiences, tell good stories What if the future of conservation hinged less on policy and more on storytelling? Conservation doesn't start with land. It starts with people. And it lasts because of the stories we carry forward. In this episode, Jody Maberry talks with Jeff Parrish, Global Managing Director at The Nature Conservancy. Jeff shares how global conservation success starts with local champions, radical collaboration, and the power of storytelling. From protecting ancient forests in Chile to elephants in Gabon, Jeff emphasizes that people are the heart of conservation, not policy. He highlights partnerships with Disney and grassroots leaders, and reminds us that whether you're a donor or a ranger, your story matters.  Read the blog and make sure to take a listen to hear more on how stories connect people to conservation. Episode Resources The Nature Conservancy About Jeff Connect with Park Leaders Show www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/    

"A win in conservation is temporary. You'll fight for it again. A loss is permanent." Notable Moments [00:01:03] – Why politics and public land are inseparable [00:04:37] – The impact of the Antiquities Act on land policy [00:06:57] – South Carolina's bipartisan approach to land conservation [00:10:31] – Western vs. Eastern perceptions of public land ownership [00:15:11] – Economic and social value of protected lands [00:21:13] – The difference between temporary wins and permanent losses [00:26:40] – Why every acre counts, from Yellowstone to your local county park Jody Maberry and Phil Gaines explore the often-overlooked political realities of public land management. They examine how geography, history, and growth shape public land debates differently across regions, especially in the East vs. the West. From the Antiquities Act to state and federal tensions, they reflect on why effective leadership requires understanding policy and public sentiment. Phil shares South Carolina's strategic approach, and both emphasize that conservation is about legacy—not just land. This episode encourages park leaders to engage in meaningful conversations, beyond politics, to protect the places that define our country. Read my blog for more about the politics of public lands.  Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/  

"Parks protect the land, but just as importantly, they protect the stories that shaped our nation." There are a number of ways parks can contribute to the United States' 250th anniversary. From South Carolina's rich revolutionary history to the roles western parks can play, this conversation highlights how parks serve as stewards of history, not just nature. Phil joins to share his involvement with state commissions and the American Battlefield Trust, offering ideas for programming, preservation, and storytelling. Read the blog for more from this episode.  Notable Moments [02:30] Phil's work with commissions and battlefield preservation [04:02] Lexington and Concord: the shot heard around the world [06:29] Parks' role in preserving and retelling history [09:30] Revolutionary stories from South Carolina [11:30] Creating commissions across the U.S. [13:00] The opportunity for storytelling and youth engagement [17:11] Andrew Jackson's teenage war story [20:48] Importance of land preservation [21:51] How every state can contribute to the celebration Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/  

"I'm going to do something that's connected to the national parks or our or a state park near me so that I can use my knowledge and see the real world impact it has. And that way, I never am stuck in class asking, why is this important? Why on earth do I have to learn this?" Notable Moments 03:02 Parks' Enhanced Virtual Learning Programs 05:30 The Value of Learning About Distant Places 12:39 Bridging Classrooms and Public Lands 17:53 Engaging Park Rangers as Educators 24:08 Enhancing Park Visitor Experience 26:14 Park Principles for Classroom Management Connect with James Order the Book The National Park Classroom www.nationalparkclassroom.com Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/ Every park holds stories waiting to be told. James Fester, an educator and former interpreter with California State Parks and the National Park Service, returns to discuss the ever-evolving connection between national parks and education. Read the blog for more on the ways that parks have been successfully integrated into classrooms and the powerful outcomes of such collaborations.