“I’ve never been there early enough to see the sunrise, but I’ve been there late enough to see the sunset. And it does have a really pretty sunset.” It’s not every day you get to hear from someone about their experience working at the park they group up in. However, that is exactly what my […]
Attention to Details Matter to Park Guests
“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 […]
Innovative Technology and Conservation
“We need to inspire people, especially young people, with innovation. That is how we can change the world in a positive way. Viktor Meier is the cofounder and CEO of Glice®, a revolutionary company that has developed synthetic ice for a more sustainable ice skating experience. This conversation sheds light on how Glice® rinks are […]
The Legacy of George Melendez Wright
“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.” George Melendez Wright was a trailblazer in conservation and wildlife management […]
What Has Changed in Parks in the Last Decade
“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 changed the way we manage parks is, how we did the pandemic.” We just celebrated a major milestone—300 episodes of the Park Leaders […]
Finding Balance in Your Park Career
“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.” Being a park ranger isn’t just a job. For many of us, it’s a calling. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your own well-being. Phil Gaines and I talk about […]
Interpreting Freeman Tilden
“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?” In this episode, Walt Dabney returns to share his extraordinary experience as a student trainee. Walt is the retired director of Texas State Parks and a […]
How to Have an Effective Welcome Station
“The welcome station is where you are telling a visitor what to expect during the rest of their time with you.” One of the most crucial touch points in any park experience is the welcome station. Welcome stations are not just a checkpoint or stops as you enter a park. They are an opportunity to […]
Talking About the National Recreation and Park Association
“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.” While on my way to the National Association […]
Creating Experiences for Normal People
“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.” The deep knowledge of park leaders is invaluable. However, when we want to create experiences for the everyday visitor it is important to recognize that simplicity resonates with […]