Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters

Tom Medema, the Associate Director of Interpretation, Education, and Volunteers for the National Park Service (NPS), has had an inspiring career journey that began in Muskegon, Michigan. After earning both his Bachelor's and Master's degrees, Tom embarked on a 35-year adventure with the NPS, taking on increasingly impactful roles—from interpreter to superintendent, ultimately becoming Associate Director. In this episode, Tom shares the remarkable stories from his career and his recent philanthropic efforts, including his work in providing motorcycles to rangers around the world who lack the means to acquire a motor vehicle. Tune in on your favorite audio platform to hear more about his extraordinary journey.

https://timfmerriman.podbean.com/page/1/

#timmerriman #interpretationservices #interpretation #interpretivenaturalists #interpretivetraining #heritageinterpretation #NationalParkService #NPS #NatureInterpretation #CulturalInterpretation #InterpretationMatters #ConnectingPeopleToParks #TomMedema #ParkLeader #ConservationChampion #RangerStories #NPSLeadership

Today is a special edition of Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters podcast featuring more than one hour of conversation among five very experienced interpretive trainers. Clark Hancock from Austin, Texas, Donna Horton from Tulsa, Oklahoma, Gabriela Plumasseau from Paris, France, Heidi McFarland from Boulder Creek, California, and Lisa Brochu, my wife and training partner, join me in discussing training options that are affordable and time-saving. This is a followup to a discussion I posted on May 24 with a group of trainers.

 

During this I explain how my new Put the HEART Back in Your Interpretive Communications is designed to serve those who may not be able to afford NAI’s Interpretive Guide Certificate course such as students, docents, volunteers, part-timers, and seasonals.

 

Join us on your favorite audio platform at https://timfmerriman.podbean.com/

 

#timmerriman #InterpretationServices #interpreter #heritageinterpretation #interpretivenaturalist #interpretiveguide #certifiedinterpretiveguide

Today Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman talk story with Omar Eaton-Martinez, who began his career as a teacher in eastern cities and later worked with the National Park Service on youth programs, serving as staff to the National Latino American Museum Commission.

Born to Puerto Rican parents, Omar bridges gaps between White Americans, Americans of Color, African Americans, and Latinos.

Holding degrees in African American Studies and Education, he served as the Smithsonian’s Museum Liaison for pre- and post-doctoral fellows. He was also a Public Outreach Specialist for NASA and Assistant Division Chief of Historical Resources for the Maryland National Capital Parks and Planning Commission.

Currently, he is the Senior Vice President for Historic Sites at the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Chair of the Board of Directors for the Association of African American Museums, and a Board member for the International National Trust Organisation.

 

https://timfmerriman.podbean.com/

 

#timmerriman #interpretationservices #interpretation #heritageinterpretation #AfricanAmericanHistory #BlackHistory #BlackHistoryMatters  #AmericanHistory #AfricanAmericanHeritage #BlackStoriesMatter #BlackVoicesInHistory #AfricanAmericanStorytelling #HistoryComesAlive #HistoryMatters #HistoricalInterpretation  #BringingHistoryToLife #AfricanAmericanHistory

Edward W. Gantt, a retired Navy Captain with a unique background, talks story with Tim Merriman and Bill Gwaltney for "Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters." Born and raised in Washington, D.C., Gantt graduated from Howard University and the National Defense University. He served 30 years in the military, first as a door gunner on a Huey helicopter in Vietnam with the Army, then joining the Navy after completing his degree, eventually rising to Navy Captain. He served as a Naval Flight Officer in F-14 TOMCAT squadrons, both in the U.S. and aboard aircraft carriers.

 

After retiring from the military, Gantt became a high school teacher in public schools in Prince George’s County, MD, and Washington, D.C. Passionate about telling underrepresented stories, he joined the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, an African American Civil War reenactment group, and also serves with the 23rd USCT in Maryland. He is active with The African Americans in the Civil War Era Round Table and serves as Vice Commander-in-Chief of the Military Order of the World Wars (MOWW).

 

Now, as a historical interpreter, Ed Gantt challenges myths like the “Black Confederate” while embodying period roles. He is a powerful force in sharing history.

 

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#timmerriman #interpretationservices #interpretation #heritageinterpretation  #LivingHistory #LivingHistoryEnthusiast #HistoricalReenactment #HistoryReenactment #AfricanAmericanHistory #BlackHistory #BlackHistoryMatters  #AmericanHistory #AfricanAmericanHeritage #BlackStoriesMatter #BlackVoicesInHistory #AfricanAmericanStorytelling #HistoryComesAlive #HistoryMatters #HistoricalInterpretation #ReenactmentCommunity #BringingHistoryToLife #CivilWarHistory #AfricanAmericanHistory #USColoredTroops #54thMassachusetts #BlackCivilWarSoldiers #AfricanAmericansInWar

A Native of Eatonville, Florida, Christy Coleman grew up in the shadow of African American anthropologist and writer Zora Neale Hurston. As a teenager in 1982, wanting to become an actor, she accepted a summer position as a character actor for an enslaved woman named Rebecca at Colonial Williamsburg.

Her growing enthusiasm for History led her to a Bachelor of Arts degree as well as a master’s degree in museum studies.

Becoming the first female Director of African American Interpretation at Williamsburg, Coleman led and participated in a reenactment of a slave auction, which has become legendary.

Coleman later became President of the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History in Detroit, and later became the Director of the American Civil War Museum at Tredegar in Richmond, Virginia.

Leaving Richmond in 2019, Christy is now the Executive Director for the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation.

An unstoppable force in Public History and Interpretation, Christy Coleman has an unforgettable story and shares it with Tim Merriman and Bill Gwaltney on Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters.

https://timfmerriman.podbean.com/

#timmerriman #interpretationservices #interpretation #heritageinterpretation  #LivingHistory #LivingHistoryEnthusiast #HistoricalReenactment #HistoryReenactment #AfricanAmericanHistory #BlackHistory #BlackHistoryMatters  #ColonialWilliamsburg #AmericanHistory #AfricanAmericanHeritage #BlackStoriesMatter #BlackColonialHistory #BlackVoicesInHistory #AfricanAmericanStorytelling

 

 

A Co-Founder of “The Camp Moreno Project” along with her late Husband, Roberto Moreno and former National Park Ranger Bill Gwaltney, Louise Moreno has been a long-term activist promoting sharing the out of doors with Latino communities and families across the United States.

Louise fell in love with the dashing Roberto Moreno and the pair were married after a courtship of only four days. Married for decades, together they had two daughters as well as a number of grandchildren. Sadly, Roberto Moreno passed away in 2020.

Working with Roberto in the Tourism Industry in the Rocky Mountains, Louise joined her Husband in an attempt to get the Ski Business in Colorado to think more and differently about getting Latino children introduced to skiing.

The Morenos created the Alpino Mountain Sports Foundation. As former hoteliers Roberto Lopez Moreno and his wife Louise, created snow-sports and family camping experiences for over 28,100 children and families since incorporating as a non-profit 501(c)3 in Colorado in 2006.

Its signature program became “The Camp Moreno Project,” which was a partnership between the U.S. National Park Service and the Alpino Mountain Sports Foundation.

Camp Moreno provided intensive instructional weekend camping experiences for families of color in Colorado, Texas, Arizona, New Mexico and California national parks and monuments.

The Foundation also oversaw the Camp Moreno Community Organizing Academy and administered and funded Santiago Banuelos Lopez snow-sports scholarships to deserving middle school and high school athletes who attend schools offering free or reduced lunch programs.

https://timfmerriman.podbean.com/page/1/

#timmerriman #interpretationservices #interpretation #interpretivenaturalists  #heritageinterpretation #LatinosInNature #ExploreYourParks #CampMoreno #NuestroParque #LatinxOutdoors #NatureParaTodos #FamiliasAlAireLibre #VivaLaAventura #DescubreLosParques #LatinosExplore #ConoceTusParques #HikeLatino #CulturaYNaturaleza #UnidosPorLaAventura #ParquesParaTodos

Lorraine Johnson Coleman was born in the deep south, but also has roots in urban New York City. The proud daughter of a WWII African American U.S. Marine, she appreciates both the bitterness, and the sweetness that is part of growing up Black in America. Her interest in family history, shared stories and her attention to detail of African American Culture has made it possible for her to have lived several lives already. Working in Investment Banking, Lorraine discovered Interpretation even after she had become a Storyteller and her Interpretive exploits have taken her to many places with many organizations. She has done Plenary Sessions for Annual Meetings of the National Association for Interpretation, and has  worked with organizations such as the Kellogg Foundation, Oprah Winfrey's Harpo Productions and had her own Storytelling Series on National Public Radio. The author of several books, Lorraine has had a very special career as a storyteller, author and interpreter of African-American culture. 

 

This is Part Two of Lorraine's conversation with Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman on Reflections on Interpretation sharing her appearance on Oprah and becoming a special adviser and performer for Hewlett-Packard and other corporations.  Part 2 - Aug. 2

https://timfmerriman.podbean.com/

#timmerriman #interpretationservices #interpretation #heritageinterpretation #BlackHistory #BlackCulture #AfricanAmericanHistory #Storyteller #BlackVoices #BlackNarratives #BlackExcellence #BlackStories #OurHistory #CultureKeeper #AfricanAmericanCulture #BlackHeritage #BlackArt

Lorraine Johnson Coleman was born in the deep south, but also has roots in urban New York City. The proud daughter of a WWII African American U.S. Marine, she appreciates both the bitterness, and the sweetness that is part of growing up Black in America. Her interest in family history, shared stories and her attention to detail of African American Culture has made it possible for her to have lived several lives already. Working in Investment Banking, Lorraine discovered Interpretation even after she had become a Storyteller and her Interpretive exploits have taken her to many places with many organizations. She has done Plenary Sessions for Annual Meetings of the National Association for Interpretation, and has  worked with organizations such as the Kellogg Foundation, Oprah Winfrey's Harpo Productions and had her own Storytelling Series on National Public Radio. The author of several books, Lorraine has had a very special career as a storyteller, author and interpreter of African-American culture.    This two part conversation with Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman on Reflections on Interpretation will follow her from her beginning as a freelance storyteller to appearing on Oprah and becoming a special adviser and performer for Hewlett-Packard and other corporations. Part 1 - July 26, Part 2 - Aug. 2

https://timfmerriman.podbean.com/

#timmerriman #interpretationservices #interpretation #heritageinterpretation #BlackHistory #BlackCulture #AfricanAmericanHistory #Storyteller #BlackVoices #BlackNarratives #BlackExcellence #BlackStories #OurHistory #CultureKeeper #AfricanAmericanCulture #BlackHeritage #BlackArt

Ten years into his 24-year US Army career, First Sergeant Lee N. Coffee Jr. assumed a carefully researched living history interpretive role as a 9th Cavalry Buffalo Soldier, Sgt. Emanuel Stance, a Medal of Honor recipient during the Indian Wars campaign in the 1870s. 

As a historian and professional speaker, Lee has won awards for over thirteen years, leading week-long Heritage Intervention Programs titled La Salida (The Way Out), Buffalo Soldier Heritage Intervention, The Vaquero Heritage Intervention, and oversaw Old Stories: New Voices. Each multicultural program challenges young (7-12 y.o.) African Americans, Mexican Americans, and Anglo Americans to stay away from gangs and drugs and pursue an education.

 

He shares his unique journey on this week’s Reflections on Interpretation with Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman. 

 

#timmerriman #interpretationservices #interpretation #heritageinterpretation #BuffaloSoldiers #BuffaloSoldierHistory #BuffaloSoldiersLegacy #BuffaloSoldiersPride #LivingHistory #LivingHistoryEvent #LivingHistoryEnthusiast #HistoricalReenactment #HistoryReenactment #AfricanAmericanHistory #BlackHistory #BlackHistoryMatters #BlackMilitaryHistory #MilitaryHistory #MilitaryHeritage #USMilitaryHistory

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 of a peanut turtle going viral long before the Internet began sharing images. Join us on Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters. 

https://timfmerriman.podbean.com/page

#timmerriman #interpretationservices #interpretation #interpretivenaturalists #interpretivetraining #heritageinterpretation #certfiedinterpretiveguide #certifiedinterpretivehost

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 interpreter to curator.

https://timfmerriman.podbean.com/page/1/

#timmerriman #interpretationservices #interpretation  #interpretivetraining #heritageinterpretation #Smithsonian #AfricanAmericanMuseum #BlackHistory #HistoryMatters #CivilRights #Heritage #ColonialWilliamsburg #LivingHistory

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.

 

https://lnkd.in/gWapDsx3

 

#timmerriman #interpretationservices #interpretation #interpretivenaturalists #interpretivetraining #heritageinterpretation #NPS #nationalparkservice #interpretiveplanning

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 Interpretation to talk about those changes. 

#timmerriman #interpretationservices #interpretation #interpretivenaturalists #interpretivetraining #heritageinterpretation #certfiedinterpretiveguide #certifiedinterpretivehost

 

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 Interpretive Naturalists and led the move to merge with Western Interpreters Association in 1988 to create NAI. He is an active trainer and co-author of five books, including an award-winning novel. 

 

#timmerriman  #InterpretationServices  #interpretation #interpretivenaturalists #interpretivetraining

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, working from Colorado. 

 

Join us at Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters timfmerriman.podbean.com/

 

#timmerriman  #InterpretationServices  #interpretation #interpretivenaturalists #GorillaRehabilitation #ConservationDRC #DRCWildlife #SaveGorillas #DRCConservation #WildlifeRehabilitation #ProtectGorillas 1 #GorillaTrekking #UgandaGorillas #RwandaGorillas #MountainGorillas #GorillaSafari #GorillaConservation

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 Jordahl, Communication Manager with Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education Center in Democratic Republic of Congo and Colorado, a program devoted to protecting Grauerʻs Eastern Lowland Gorilla whose numbers are in decline. 

Join us at Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters timfmerriman.podbean.com/

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 Tanzania.

 

Join us at Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters timfmerriman.podbean.com/

 

#timmerriman  #InterpretationServices  #interpretation #interpretivenaturalist #SnohomishCountyParks #SnoCoParks #WashingtonParks #ExploreSnohomishCounty #SnohomishNature #SnohomishConservation

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 for Mecklenburg County in North Carolina.

#timmerriman  #InterpretationServices  #interpretation #interpretivenaturalist  #VirginiaBeach #VBVA #VisitVirginiaBeach #VAOutdoors #VBPR #VirginiaBeachParks

 

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 services may be found at yourtruenature.com and myadviceforlife.com.

March 22 Tim will talk story with Michael Kirschman, City of Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation Director.  They will be discussing  his unique journey from being a conservation educator to consultant with the EPA in American Samoa and Deputy Director of Nature Preserves for Mecklenburg County in North Carolina. 

Join us at Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters timfmerriman.podbean.com/

 

#timmerriman  #InterpretationServices  #interpretation #interpretivenaturalist  #IlanShamir #YourTrueNature #NatureInspiration #PoetryInNature #InspirationalQuotes #NatureWisdom

Tim Merriman talks story with Dr. Robert “Bob” Hinkle, retired Chief of Outdoor Education with Cleveland Metroparks.  Bob reflects on his early career as a professor of wildlife management, decade as a cruise boat naturalist on the Great Lakes and achievements in more than 30 years of management with Cleveland Metroparks, overseeing the creation of three new nature centers on Cleveland’s famed Emerald Necklace.

 

In two weeks, March 8, Tim 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. 

Join us at Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters timfmerriman.podbean.com/

#timmerriman #clevelandmetroparks #InterpretationServices #interpretertraining #interpretation #interpretivenaturalist  #outdooreducation

Tim Merriman talks story today on Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters with Bradley Block, former Chief of Interpretation at Custer State Park within South Dakota – one of the largest state parks in the country, as well as Chief of Interpretation at Jewel Cave National Monument within the National Park Service – one of the longest caves in the world.  He is currently the Recreation Program Manager with the Black Hills National Forest, encompassing 1.2 million acres. He also has a long tenure of leadership as a regional director and numerous committee positions with National Association for Interpretation.

On Feb. 23 Tim will talk story with Dr. Robert Hinkle, former Director of Outdoor Education with Cleveland Metroparks. Bob led the Emerald Necklace parks organization in Cleveland through amazing growth with the addition of three new nature centers. 

Join us at Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters timfmerriman.podbean.com/

 

#timmerriman #BlackHills #BlackHillsNationalForest #BHNF #SouthDakota #ExploreBlackHills #InterpretationServices  #interpretation #interpretivenaturalist   

 

Tim Merriman talks story with Jay Miller, CIT, CIP, who worked 37 years with Arkansas State Parks, most of those years as Chief of Interpretation.  Retired from the parks, he continues to train and plan with clients through his business, Interpretive Communications. He is a recent Past President of the Board of Directors for National Association for Interpretation. 

 

In two weeks, Feb. 9, Tim will talk story with Bradley Block, former interpreter with South Dakota State Parks and National Park Service, now Recreation Manager with Black Hills National Forest. He also has a long tenure of leadership as a regional director with National Association for Interpretation. 

 

Join us at Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters timfmerriman.podbean.com/

 

#timmerriman #arkansasstateparks  #InterpretationServices #interpretertraining #interpretation #interpretivenaturalist  #arkansastourism #certifiedinterpretiveguide 

Karin Hostetter, CIT, has had a long career working with zoos and museums as an interpretive trainer, writer and planner with her business, Interpret This. She also serves as a Lead Trainer with National Association for Interpretation, training trainers in delivery of the Certified Interpretive Guide and Host courses. 

January 26, 2024, Tim will talk story with Jay Miller, CIT, CIP, who worked 37 years with Arkansas State Parks, most of those years as Chief of Interpretation.  Retired from the parks, he continues to train and plan with clients through his business, Interpretive Communications. He is a recent Past President of the Board of Directors for National Association for Interpretation. 

 

Join us at Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters timfmerriman.podbean.com/

 

#timmerriman #zooeducation  #InterpretationServices #interpretertraining #interpretation #interpretivenaturalist #certifiedinterpretiveguide #interpretiveguide #interpretthis

Pete Devine, Certified Interpretive Guide, naturalist, and graduate of Colorado College has had a long career with Yosemite Institute and the Yosemite Conservancy in California. He shares his experiences managing a diverse staff in working with people of all ages to explore Yosemite National Park. He also has led nature tours to Chinaʻs National Parks, sister parks to Yosemite National Park, with Mountain Travel Sobek. 

 

In two weeks Tim Merriman talks story with Karin Hostetter, NAI Master Trainer and interpretive consultant as owner of Interpret This.

 

https://timfmerriman.podbean.com/

 

#timmerriman #certifiedinterpretiveguide, #yosemitenationalpark, #yosemite #InterpretationServices #interpreter #interpretation #naturalist

Helena Vicic serves as Managing Director with Interpret Europe, a professional association for more than 900 interpretive professionals in 57 countries, that mainly serves members through their training program and professional conferences. Helena lives and works from, Slovenia, her national home, privately acting also as an interpretive trainer. 

 

Next week Tim will talk story with Pete Devine, a retired naturalist and adventure guide who led trips to Chinaʻs National Parks and served as Resident Naturalist with Yosemite Institute and Yosemite Conservancy for three decades. He is a Certified Interpretive Guide and graduate of Colorado College. 

 

Join us at Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters timfmerriman.podbean.com/

 

#timmerriman #interpreteurope  #InterpretationServices #interpretertraining #interpretation #interpretivenaturalist #certifiedinterpretiveguide #interpretiveguide 

Ryan Finchum talks story with Tim Merriman this week on Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters. Ryan is Director of the Center for Protected Area Management at Colorado State University, training managers and rangers from Latin America and Africa in good management practices and interpretation. He is a Certified Interpretive Trainer with National Association for Interpretation.

 

In two weeks, Dec. 15, I will talk story with Helena Vicic of Slovenia, who serves as General Director of Interpret Europe. This podcast is changing as of Dec. 1 from being weekly to a bi-weekly schedule. 

 

Join us at Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters at https://timfmerriman.podbean.com/

 

#timmerriman #galapagostourism  #protectedareas #InterpretationServices #interpretertraining #interpretation #interpretivenaturalist #certifiedinterpretiveguide #interpretiveguide #cpam

Kara Garilao is an interpretive guide, planner and trainer, who lives and works in the Philippines, talking story with Tim Merriman on Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters. She recently earned the CIG Certificate with Tim Merriman in a Virtual Certified Interpretive Guide Course. Join us on your favorite audio platform. 

https://timfmerriman.podbean.com/

Next week, Nov. 24th Tim will not post a podcast but will return on Dec. 1 talking story with Ryan Finchum, Director of The Center for Protected Area Management at Colorado State University. 

#timmerriman #culturaltourism #InterpretationServices #interpretertraining #interpretation #certifiedinterpretiveguide #interpretiveguide #reflectionsoninterpretation

Artificial Intelligence and Generative AI are tools that guides and interpreters might reasonably use to improve their tours and talks. Tim Merriman talks story with Tobias "Toby" Merriman, his son, who is Assistant Director of Center for Virtual Expression (CVeX) at Southern Illinois University, a program training professors and students to use AI skillfully. Join them on Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters on your favorite audio platform. Or you may also watch this broadcast with slides and a live demo on YouTube.com. Links follow -

https://timfmerriman.podbean.com/

https://youtu.be/EiJSfw27t4Y

 

Join Tim next week, November 17, when he talks story with Kara Garilao, CIG,  an interpretive guide, planner and trainer in in the Philippines. 

 

#timmerriman #AI #artificialintelligence #generativeAI #InterpretationServices #interpretertraining #interpretation #certifiedinterpretiveguide #interpretiveguide #reflectionsoninterpretation

 

 

Dr. Lucy Long, author of Culinary Tourism, is a folklorist, fiddler, ethnomusicologist and interpreter of food and culture. She and Tim Merriman talk story about food tourism and interpretation on Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters.

 

Next week, November 10, Tim will be talking story with Tobias Merriman, Assistant Director of CVeX at Southern Illinois University, a program to assist professors in application of Artificial Intelligence and Virtual Reality. Tim and his son, Toby, will discuss how guides and interpreters might benefit from these new tools. 

 

#timmerriman #foodtourism #ethnomusicology #culturaltourism #InterpretationServices #interpretertraining #interpretation #interpretivenaturalist #certifiedinterpretiveguide #interpretiveguide #reflectionsoninterpretation

Tim Merriman talks story on Reflections on Interpretation with Masa Shintani, a Japanese trainer and planner who has worked in 18 countries in Asia and Africa, helping communities develop ecotourism and learn about interpretive guiding. He also has his own ecotour and glamping company in Fujinomiya, Japan. 

 

Next week, November 3rd, I will be talking story with Dr. Lucy Margaret Long, a professor, folklorist, fiddler and author of Culinary Tourism, who has a new book coming out on interpretation of food and culture. 

 

Join us at Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters at https://timfmerriman.podbean.com/

 

#timmerriman #ecotourism  #japantourism #InterpretationServices #interpretertraining #interpretation #interpretivenaturalist #certifiedinterpretiveguide #interpretiveguide #reflectionsoninterpretation

Maria Elena Muriel, CIT,  is a very talented interpretive guide, trainer and planner who has worked throughout Mexico and Latin America, carrying the banner of interpretation to new audiences of guides and interpreters. She shares her amazing story of being the very first Certified Interpretive Guide with National Association for Interpretation in January of 2000 while guiding tourists to turtle beaches, whales with young, birding Baja del Sur and the mysteries of the night sky. 

 

Next week Tim Merriman will talk story with Masa Shintani, a Japanese trainer who has worked in 18 countries in Asia and Africa, helping communities develop ecotourism and learn about interpretive guiding. 

 

Join us at Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters at https://timfmerriman.podbean.com/

 

#timmerriman #bajadelsurtourism #loscabostourism #mexicantourism #InterpretationServices #interpreter #interpretation #interpretivenaturalist #certifiedinterpretiveguide #interpretiveguide

Colby Brokvist, adventure guide, photographer, author of The Professional Guideʻs Handbook and Board Chair of the Polar Tourism Guides Association talks story with Tim Merriman on the podcast, Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters. Colby shares his journey as a guide and how adventure guiding in polar regions such as Churchill in Canada is different and requires very specialized training to properly prepare.

Next Friday Tim Merriman talks story with Maria Elena Muriel, CIT, a Mexican interpretive guide from Los Cabos, interpretive trainer and planner who earned the very first Certified Interpretive Guide credential with National Association for Interpretation in 1999. 

Join us on your favorite audio platform at https://timfmerriman.podbean.com/

 

#timmerriman #colbybrokvist #polarguides #InterpretationServices #interpreter #heritageinterpretation #interpretivenaturalist #interpretiveguide #adventureguide #naturalhabitatadventures 

Jennifer Waithman, CIT, is an interpretive trainer and specialist in Queensland Australia, but originally from the United States, talking story with Tim Merriman. She shares her unique journey in Reflections on Interpretation podcast from interpreting with federal agencies in the Northwest United States to the Sunshine and Fraser Coasts in eastern Australia. 

 

Next Friday, October 13, Tim Merriman talks story with Colby Brokvist, adventure guide, photographer, author of The Professional Guideʻs Handbook and Board Chair of the Polar Tourism Guides Association. 

 

Join us on your favorite audio platform at https://timfmerriman.podbean.com/

 

#timmerriman #queenslandtourism #queensland #queenslandtravel #interpretationaustralia #InterpretationServices #interpreter #heritageinterpretation #interpretivenaturalist #interpretiveguide #certifiedinterpretiveguide

Claire Savage works through her Savagely Creative business as an interpretive planner and destination marketer. Rusty Creighton, her spouse, is a talented tourism guide working with both land and water based companies in the Margaret River area south of Perth. Tim Merriman talks with them about their journey in the interpretive profession and how the pandemic affected tourism in Western Australia. 

Next Friday, October 6, Tim Merriman talks story with Jennifer Waithman, CIT, of Queensland Australia about her work in interpretation, training and volunteer coordination in the Fraser Coast Regional Council. 

Join us at Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters on your favorite audio platform - https://timfmerriman.podbean.com/

 

#timmerriman #westernaustraliatourism #margaretrivertourism  #InterpretationServices #interpreter #interpretation #interpretivenaturalist #savagelycreative 

Maricar Donato speaks seven languages and guides in five in Washington, D.C. and the Eastern Triangle as part of her Washing Tours and Events business. She and Tim Merriman Talk Story about the importance of interpretive approaches to tourism guiding. She is a Certified Interpretive Trainer with National Association for Interpretation and trains Certified Interpretive Guides. She is also an Executive Board Member of the World Federation of Tourist Guides Associations. 

Next week Tim Merriman will be speaking with Claire Savage and Rusty Creighton, an interpretive planner and interpretive guide, respectively who work in Margaret River area south of Perth in Western Australia. 

Join us at Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters on your favorite audio platform - https://timfmerriman.podbean.com/

#timmerriman #certifiedinterpretiveguide #maricardonato #washingtours #InterpretationServices #interpreter #interpretation #interpretivetrainer #easterntriangle

Michael Glen began working in tourism information in Scotland the U.K. more than five decades ago. As Wordsmith, he has been a writing and planning consultant with more than 500 projects, while also being a key figure in design and administration of the professional interpretive organizations in the United Kingdom and Europe. He and Tim Merriman have been friends for decades and talk story about their journeys in the interpretive profession since the 1960s. 

Next Friday, Sep. 22, Tim Merriman will talk story with Maricar Donato, owner of WashingTours, a guide company in Washinton, D.C. who is also a Certified Interpretive Trainer who trains Certified Interpretive Guides. 

Join us on your favorite audio platform - https://timfmerriman.podbean.com/

#timmerriman #certifiedinterpretiveguide #WashingTours #MaricarDonato #WashingtonDCtourism #InterpretationServices #interpreter #interpretation #interpretivenaturalist #certifiedinterpretivetrainer

Christian Gernez, CIG, and CEO of Isthmian Adventures joins Tim Merriman to talk about the natural and cultural beauty and diversity of Panama. Christian manages his company with a diverse group of expert guides who know the nation's amazing cultures, birds and other wildlife.

Next week Tim will be talking story with Michael Glen, The Wordsmith, in Scotland. 

Join us on your favorite audio platform - https://timfmerriman.podbean.com/

#timmerriman #certifiedinterpretiveguide #panama #isthmianadventures # christiangernez #panamatourism #InterpretationServices #interpreter #interpretation #interpretivenaturalist #panamabirding

 

Sharon Hosko retired in 2018 after a 31-year career with Cleveland Metroparks as a Naturalist and Nature Center Manager. She shares her perspectives on the importance of the Emerald Necklace, Cleveland's network of parks and preserves, and nature centers in helping urban dwellers connect with nature. 

Next week Tim Merriman talks story about adventure tourism with Christian Gernez, CEO and Naturalist with Isthmian Adventures in Panama. 

Join us on your favorite tourism platform at https://timfmerriman.podbean.com/.

#timmerriman #certifiedinterpretiveguide #cleveland metroparks #InterpretationServices #interpreter #interpretation #outdooreducation #outdooreducator #interpretivenaturalist #naturecenter

 

Jean Marie Twambaze grew up near Volcanoes National Park in northern Rwanda, home of the Mountain Gorillas. As a young boy he dreamed of being a park ranger or tourism guide and today he owns his own guide company, JeanMarie Wild, taking guests to the national parks of Rwanda and especially for a trek with mountain gorillas. Tim Merriman and Jean Marie reminisce about training Jean Marie attended with Tim and Lisa Brochu a decade ago and about their 2022 photo safari with Jean Marie. 

Next week Tim Merriman talks story with Certified Interpretive Guide and skilled naturalist, Christian Gernez, of Isthmian Adventures in Panama. Join us on your favorite audio platform.

https://timfmerriman.podbean.com/

 

#timmerriman #certifiedinterpretiveguide #jeanmariewild #InterpretationServices #interpreter #interpretation #mountaingorillas #volcanoesnationalparkrwanda #akageranationalpark #nyungwenationalpark #tourismguides #rwanda

Susan Strauss has a long and very successful career as a storyteller and author who also understands interpretive approaches. Susan's book, The Passionate Fact: Storytelling in Natural and Cultural Interpretation has been popular since being published in 1996. Tim Merriman and Susan discuss her new book, Tree with Golden Apples: Botanical and Agricultural Wisdom in World Myths, which blends stories with related science and the art of storytelling. Dr. Sam Ham wrote the foreword. 

Next week on Friday, August 25, Tim talks story with Jean Marie Twambaze, a very talented Safari Guide and Wildlife Photographer in Rwanda. 

Join us on your favorite audio platform - https://admin5.podbean.com/timfmerriman/episodes/form

#timmerriman #certifiedinterpretiveguide #susanstraussstoryteller #storytellers #InterpretationServices  #interpreter #interpretation

 

Kristin K. Robinson is an interpretive planner, consultant and trainer with her own business, the Naked Stage. She has a long history with interpretation and tourism management and training, especially on the river tours of Europe. Kristin and Tim Merriman each train Certified Interpretive guides virtually via Zoom and in person and share their experiences with this growing program for National Association for Interpretation. 

Next week Tim talks story with Susan Strauss, author and storyteller with a new book coming out, Tree with Golden Apples. 

Join us on your favorite audio platform. https://timfmerriman.podbean.com/

Dr. Larry Beck, Professor Emeritus at San Diego State University, co-author with Dr. Ted Cable of The Gifts of Interpretation and author/co-author of other important books in the interpretive profession, talks story with Tim Merriman about his professional journey and trends in the profession. 

Next week Tim will talk story with Kristin K. Robinson, Certified Interpretive Trainer, of Connecticut, who trains Certified Interpretive Guides in person and virtually. She also consults with interpretive businesses. 

Join us on your favorite audio platform. 

Lisa Brochu spent more than three decades doing interpretive planning for both private and public organizations. In this conversation she shares with Tim Merriman what led to writing her book, Interpretive Planning: the 5-M Model for Successful Planning Projects. She also talks in detail about one of her favorite interpretive plans in Sichuan, China. Join us for a 40-minute conversation about interpretive planning and more. 

Next week Tim Merriman talks story with Dr. Larry Beck, author and Professor Emeritus at San Diego State University. 

Clark Hancock studied to work in the technical side of theater at Tulane University and he did that for several years. When he found a role at Austin Nature Center as a maintenance worker, it evolved into exhibit and visitor experience design and interpretive training. As a Certified Interpretive Trainer he has trained many at his nature center, but now, in retirement he consults as an interpretive planner with many organizations around his home community of choice in Austin, Texas. Join us for an interesting conversation. 

Next Friday join Lisa Brochu who will share her journey of many decades in interpretive planning consultancy and training. 

Wren Smith is the Interpretive Programs Manager at Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest in Kentucky. She is a Certified Interpretive Trainer with National Association for Interpretation and uses the Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG) training program with her staff and volunteers. She made a unique contribution to improvement of the CIG course that we discuss in this one hour of conversation. Join us on your favorite audio platform. 

Next Friday - Clark Hancock, interpretive trainer and consultant in Austin, Texas. 

Bill and I continue talking story about his late career transition to serve as Chief of Interpretation of American Battle Monuments Commission in Paris, France. They manage 26 cemeteries and 29 Memorials around the world dedicated to the memory of American service members who lost their lives in foreign wars. Bill also shares his 12 Points of Living History, some very thoughtful guidelines about costumed interpretation and how it can be a more powerful interpretive tool. 

Today I am Talking Story with Bill Gwaltney, an old friend of 42 years, and a gentleman with an amazing career with National Park Service as a living history interpreter at Bent's Old Fort to being Superintendent of Booker T Washington National Monument. He was an advisor and participant in the 1989 movie, Glory and eventually served five years as Chief of Interpretation with American Battle Monuments Commission in Paris, France. This is the first of two hours of conversations. The second will be available next Friday. Join us for one or both on your favorite audio platform. 

Dr. Ted Cable is Professor Emeritus at Kansas State University after a 34 year career as a Professor. Also he has been author or co-author of 15 books on interpretation, conservation and birding. He has traveled more than 50 countries teaching and training and in retirement he continues to write interpretive resources and lead birding tours to international destinations. Join Ted and Tim Merriman and learn more about his interesting journey in this profession. 

Next Friday, June 30, Tim will be talking story with Bill Gwaltney, who will share stories from his long career with National Park Service and other interesting projects and positions. 

Gabby Plumasseau shares her interesting journey in heritage interpretation with Tim Merriman. She grew up in Merida, Mexico, now lives in Paris, France, and trains Certified Interpretive Guides in Europe and in varied venues in Central and South America, working in Spanish, French and English. In recent years she has been an active organizer with the I-PAL Network - Heritage Interpretation: Latin America and the Caribbean. She updates us while visiting her original home area in Mexico to train Certified Interpretive Guides. 

Coming up on June 23, Tim talks story with Dr. Ted Cable. 

Justin Legge is Manager at Benbow KOA and Tour Director at Benbow Historic Inn near Arcata, California. He recently took the Certified Interpretive Guide course with us and plans to become a trainer. He uses interpretive approaches to engage visitors to the tall trees (redwoods) of northern California.