Nate and Suzie sit down with Brant Fisher, a Non-game Aquatic Biologist with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. Brant brings a wealth of knowledge about the often-overlooked species that quietly keep Indiana’s waterways thriving—from freshwater mussels and darters to mudpuppies and rare invertebrates. He shares how these creatures act as early warning indicators for water quality and why biodiversity matters more than most people realize. This conversation shines a light on the hidd...
Episode 12 of The Lake Doctor Podcast features Ben Schlipf of Schlipf Precision Agriculture, a local expert who blends hands-on farming experience with a deep commitment to environmental stewardship. Ben brings a lineup of innovative ag-tech gadgets to the studio, giving listeners a behind-the-scenes look at how modern tools help farmers make smarter, data-driven decisions. From precise chemical applications to soil-health monitoring, he explains how today’s technology is reshaping agricultur...
In this episode of The Lake Doctor Podcast, we dive into the inspiring story of Jace Morgan, an ultra-endurance athlete with a growing passion for environmental stewardship. Earlier this year, Jace took on an incredible challenge — swimming the entire 17-mile circumference of Lake Wawasee in his event, Lap the Lake. What started as a test of endurance quickly became a journey of purpose and connection to the very waters he calls home. With each mile, Jace developed a deeper appreciation for t...
In this episode of The Lake Doctor Podcast, we wade into the world of wetlands with Landon Vine, a wetland scientist at V3 Companies. Landon shares his passion for these vital ecosystems and explains how wetlands serve as nature’s filtration systems—cleaning water, supporting biodiversity, and protecting communities from flooding. Through his work, Landon bridges the gap between environmental science and everyday impact, showing how restoration and responsible development can work hand-in-han...
In this episode of The Lake Doctor Podcast, we’re joined by Eddie Gill, Executive Director of The Friends of White River in Indianapolis, Indiana. Eddie shares how his organization connects people to the water through hands-on programs, community events, and environmental outreach. From river cleanups to outdoor education initiatives, he discusses the importance of creating opportunities for people of all ages to learn about and engage with their local ecosystems beyond the traditional classr...
In this episode of The Lake Doctor Podcast, we welcome Ryan Workman—Grace College alumnus and current environmental scientist at Stantec. Ryan reflects on how his years with the Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams gave him hands-on research opportunities, professional mentorship, and a deeper understanding of real-world environmental challenges. From conducting water-quality studies to collaborating with local conservation partners, those early experiences became the foundation for his caree...
In this episode of The Lake Doctor Podcast, we sit down with Treleen Cox, a first-grade teacher at Leesburg Elementary who is passionate about hands-on learning. Treleen shares how she introduces her students to the wonders of the natural world through exploration, curiosity, and interactive experiences. From outdoor, exploratory lessons to engaging classroom experiments, her approach shows how even the youngest learners can begin to see how the world around them has so much beauty and comple...
In this episode of The Lake Doctor Podcast, we dive into the often-overlooked world of riparian rights and lake law with local Warsaw attorney, Steve Snyder. Steve brings years of legal expertise to help listeners understand who owns what when it comes to Indiana’s lakes—where private property ends, where public access begins, and how shoreline use is governed. With practical examples, engaging stories, and clear explanations, he sheds light on the legal complexities that shape everyday life ...
In this episode of The Lake Doctor Podcast, we dive into a topic that often goes unnoticed—what happens after you flush the toilet? Tyler Hammerle, Project Manager at Wessler Engineering, breaks down the fascinating journey of wastewater, from your home to wastewater treatment facilities and beyond. With clarity and a touch of humor, Tyler explains how modern infrastructure protects both human health and the ecosystems we love, especially our lakes and streams. Listeners will gain a new appre...
In this episode of The Lake Doctor Podcast, we welcome Nate Simons, Executive Director of Blue Heron Ministries and a long-time leader in ecological restoration. During our discussion, we will explore what it means to be stewards of the land. Nate shares stories from decades of restoring native habitats like prairies and wetlands across Indiana and offers a hopeful vision for how thoughtful human intervention can reverse ongoing damage and strengthen ecosystems. From reintroducing native wet...
On this episode of The Lake Doctor Podcast, we’re joined by Dugan Julian, Northeast Regional Specialist for Indiana at the Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA) and a former student of Dr. Nate Bosch (The Lake Doctor). Dugan shares how his circumstances and time with the marines eventually led him into a career combating invasive plant species across Northern Indiana. From lake shores to neighborhood landscaping, we explore the real-world impact of invasive plants on Indiana's ...
Join us as we chat with Brian Peterson, owner of Brian Peterson Real Estate and a trusted voice in the housing market in Kosciusko County and northern Indiana. Brian brings years of expertise helping buyers find the home they're looking for, with ample knowledge navigating the unique dynamics encountered with lakefront properties. Explore how the quality of our local lakes—especially factors like water clarity, shoreline maintenance, and overall ecological health—can significantly impact both...
Welcome Jessie Kreider, the Program Director at Camp Alexander Mack and a regular volunteer at the Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams. Jessie brings her passion for outdoor education and environmental stewardship to the conversation, sharing stories from her experiences as a program director and her work connecting people with nature. From teaching the importance of freshwater ecosystems to facilitating moments of awe in the outdoors, Jessie reveals how building a relationship with nature can...
Russell Anderson embodies a rare perspective in the conversation about water quality and land management – he's simultaneously a farmer, owner of Wawasee Boat Co., and a lake resident. In this thought-provoking episode, Russell shares his journey toward regenerative agriculture and how these practices are helping protect Lake Wawasee and surrounding waterways. Discover the fascinating evolution of farming practices as Russell explains how no-till techniques create a protective blanket over s...
Nathaniel Wise vividly remembers the moment birds captured his imagination. It wasn't spotting a rare species or an encounter with a majestic raptor—it was a plush mourning dove toy that played authentic bird calls when squeezed. This seemingly simple experience sparked a lifelong passion for connecting bird songs with the creatures that make them, eventually leading him to study how birds and lake ecosystems intertwine. From his early volunteer work with the Lilly Center demonstrating how s...
Aaron Voirol's journey from local baseball player to DNR hatchery biologist reveals the fascinating world of fish management happening beneath the surface of Indiana's lakes. As a Grace College environmental science graduate who worked at the Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams, Aaron brought unique "fish IQ" and "boating IQ" skills that set him apart even before launching his professional career. Now stationed at Fawn River State Fish Hatchery, Aaron meticulously manages fish culture and fee...
Water is life, yet most of us take its origins for granted, often unaware of the underlying systems that sustain it. Join us as we dive deep into the world of groundwater and aquifers with hydrogeologist Todd Feenstra. Through this engaging episode, we unravel the complexities of aquifers and their crucial role in maintaining our lakes and river systems. Learn about the fascinating journey of water from rainfall through various layers of soil until it replenishes valuable groundwater re...
The Lake Doctor podcast dives into pressing environmental concerns affecting our beautiful local lakes, delving deep into the issue of E. coli contamination in public swimming areas. Join hosts Suzie Light and Dr. Nate Bosch as they welcome Mayor Jeff Grose of Warsaw and Parks Superintendent Larry Plummer for an insightful discussion about the current state of our lakes and the proactive measures being explored to ensure a cleaner and healthier environment for our community. In this engaging...
Dive into the inspiring world of young environmental champions in our latest episode! Meet Tatiksha Gorhe and Sydney Clark of Warsaw High School, who recently participated (and won!) at the statewide Envirothon competition. This exciting educational program encourages students to explore critical environmental topics and fosters teamwork through competition. Join us as we discuss their experiences, from rigorous study sessions to presenting innovative solutions for local environmental concern...
What if your local lake could be healthier, cleaner, and more beautiful than ever before? Join us for an insightful conversation with Chris Cummins, president of the Winona Lake Preservation Association, as he shares his passion for lake conservation and his proactive strategies to combat pollution. From tackling the aftermath of a local chemical spill to working hand-in-hand with environmental expert Dr. Nate Bosch from the Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams, Chris reveals the power of commu...