Ramble and Mosey – Details, episodes & analysis

This episode features a live, unedited conversation between Jeannette Stawski, Author of The Outdoor Leader and Executive Director of the Association of Outdoor Recreation and Education, and Dan Wanschura, Host and Executive Producer of Points North Podcast at the Michigan Outdoor Summit. 
Jeannette shares her journey of becoming a whitewater rafting guide, the transformative power of outdoor leadership, and the importance of embracing failure and responsibility. Together, they discuss the importance of leadership in everyday life, resilience in the face of challenges, and how outdoor experiences can shape personal and professional growth.

We connect with Zachary Branigan, the Executive Director of the Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy. Zachary discusses the work the conservancy is doing, including taking on urban canopy and tree restoration projects to address tree equity issues in the communities they serve.

He also talks about the journey of leading the conservancy and expanding its focus beyond traditional land protection efforts.

In this episode, we sit down with Stacy Bare, Executive Director of the Friends of Grand Rapids Parks, and Luis Benitez, former Chief Impact Officer for the Trust for Public Land (current VP for Global Government Affairs Lululemon) . They discuss their personal connections to Michigan, the importance of outdoor recreation and conservation, and the work their organizations are doing to support and improve parks and green spaces in local communities.

In this episode, we explore the evolution of the Detroit Parks Coalition with its Executive Director and Board President. From its inception to its current impact, learn about the Coalition's mission to transform Detroit's green spaces.

Our guests discuss the organization’s membership, highlighting the collaborative efforts that drive their initiatives. We'll delve into the Coalition's work, the challenges they face, and the successes they've achieved in revitalizing urban parks.

Joining Us:

Sigal Hemy - Executive Director, Detroit Parks Coalition

Alex Allen III - Board President, Detroit Parks Coalition and President/CEO, Chandler Park Conservancy

In this episode, we're joined by Dan Lord, Chief of the Financial Operations Division, and Clay, Grants Manager for Michigan's Department of Natural Resources.

We dive into the intricacies of financial operations, grants management, and their transformative impacts on Michigan's communities. Learn about the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, the profound partnerships driving state projects, and the dedicated teams ensuring sustainable recreational access. Hear personal stories, professional insights, and future visions for enhancing outdoor experiences in Michigan.

In this episode, we explore the healing power of nature in supporting youth mental health and resilience with Garrett Dempsey and Amanda Westra.

Garrett shares how Detroit Outdoors creates inclusive opportunities for young people, especially in communities of color, through a gear library, leadership training, and partnerships.

Amanda highlights how the Chill Foundation uses of boardsports and outdoor activities to help youth heal from developmental and ancestral trauma. Together, they reveal how nature can break barriers, foster bravery, and transform lives.

Featuring

Garret Dempsey, Executive Director, Detroit Outdoors

Amanda Westra - Senior Program Manager, Chill Foundation

Episode Links

Detroit Outdoors

Chill Foundation

@outdoorsdetroit

@chillfoundation

In this episode, we welcome Ian Solomon, a multifaceted individual working passionately in Detroit's green spaces. Ian discusses his varied roles, including his work with the Detroit Parks Coalition, his artistic pursuits, and his community organization, Amplify Outside. He emphasizes the importance of bridging Detroiters with Michigan's natural spaces while addressing environmental justice.

Ian also shares insights from his artist residencies and his new coalition, Black Brown and Green, which fosters community among black and brown individuals interested in environmental advocacy. The discussion highlights Detroit's unique urban parks, the resilience of its community, and the collaborative efforts to dismantle the barriers that separate city and suburb.

Featuring

Ian Solomon - Communications & Engagement Manager, Detroit Parks Coalition, Founder, Amplify Outside

Episode Links

Detroit Parks Coalition

@amplifyoutside

Black to the Land Coalition

In this episode, Anne Fleming from Little Traverse Conservancy, Cece Kirkwood, and Pitt Grewe from AllTrails join us to discuss the importance of trails for community engagement and conservation in Michigan.

We explore the tools AllTrails offers to enhance outdoor experiences, including discoverability, planning, and on-trail navigation. Little Traverse Conservancy, with a rich history and a focus on environmental education, uses trails to foster community engagement and accessibility. The conversation highlights the Public Lands Program by AllTrails that helps land managers keep trail information accurate and up-to-date, aiding in user preparedness and safety.

We also discuss strategies for introducing new users to outdoor activities, emphasizing land stewardship and accessibility. The episode shares insights into Little Traverse Conservancy’s initiatives for universal access and its collaborations with local businesses and communities.

Links & Resources

AllTrails

AllTrails Public Lands Program

Little Traverse Conservancy

In this episode, our guests, Pete DeBoer, Director of Donor Relations at the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, and Bob Lukens, Director of Community Development for Muskegon County, discuss the balance between economic growth and environmental stewardship.

From restoring natural spaces and expanding trails to preserving Muskegon’s ecological heritage amid shifting demographics and development pressures, they break down the partnerships and initiatives driving sustainable change.

In this episode of Ramble & Mosey, we welcome Phil Britton of Fresh Systems LLC and Vaughn Rodriguez of Innovate Marquette to dig into how outdoor recreation and conservation come together in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. We unpack the story of the Orion Project (Outdoor Recreation Innovation Action Network) and its role in growing the region’s outdoor economy.

Phil and Vaughn share how they’re tackling challenges like remote geography and climate change while also seizing opportunities for sustainable growth. Along the way, we explore how community engagement, regional innovation, and conservation can thrive alongside increased tourism. Listen here, or on your favorite podcast platform. 

Episode Links:

• Fresh Systems LLC
• Innovate Marquette
• ORIAN Project
• U.P. Outdoor Summit
• Michigan Outdoor Summit
• Growth Strategy for the Central UP - TIP Strategies
• Electrified Trails in Central UP - UPland