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So You Want to Work in Parks and Rec?

Release Date: 07/17/2024

So You Want to Manage Burnout and Traumatic Stress Injury

Advancing the Outdoor Professional

Description In this episode of Advancing the Outdoor Professional, our host Candace Brendler speaks with Josie McKee, Director of Operations and Communications at Responder Alliance. The two discuss managing burnout and the effects of traumatic stress injuries. From climbing instructor and wilderness educator to search & rescue team member and resilience trainer, Josie shares her career journey and how her lived experience with stress injury shaped her work in resilience and stress management training. Tune in to learn about psychological first aid and how the stress continuum can help...

So You Want to Work in a State Office of Outdoor Recreation

Advancing the Outdoor Professional

In this episode, our host Candace Brendler chats with Karina Armijo, Director of the New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division, to explore what it’s like to build and support outdoor recreation at the state level. Karina shares her unique career path—from graphic design and tourism marketing to leading outdoor recreation initiatives statewide—and how her deep connection to New Mexico’s landscapes inspires her work. Their conversation digs into New Mexico’s community-first approach to outdoor recreation, including the groundbreaking Outdoor Equity Fund and efforts to support local...

So You Want to Be Part of the Outdoor Recreation Workforce

Advancing the Outdoor Professional

In this episode, Candace Brendler speaks with Chris Perkins, Vice President of Programs at the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, about the evolving landscape of the outdoor recreation workforce. Chris shares his winding career path—from field educator to national policy leader—and highlights why outdoor recreation is a growing and increasingly vital sector of the U.S. economy. The conversation explores some of the workforce challenges facing the industry, including skills development, equitable access, and housing in gateway communities. Tune in to gain insight into emerging solutions and...

So You Want to Be on a Board of Directors?

Advancing the Outdoor Professional

Join host Candace Brendler as she sits down with Morgan Costello, the chair of the Board of Directors for AORE. In this episode, they delve into the roles and responsibilities of board members, the difference between a working and strategic board, and Morgan's personal journey to leadership. Discover the importance of community, empowerment, and the impact of grassroots organizations in the outdoor industry. About Morgan With a foundation in experiential outdoor education and a passion for access and equity, I support student leaders at Bucknell University and serve nationally as the...

So You Want to Bring Trauma-Informed Approaches to Your Work?

Advancing the Outdoor Professional

In this conversation, Candace Brendler speaks with Elizabeth Allen, the Director of Impact and Learning at Justice Outside. They discuss the mission of Justice Outside, Elizabeth's career journey in trauma-informed practices, and the importance of creating inclusive outdoor experiences. Elizabeth shares insights into her daily work, the significance of trauma-informed care, and how to foster inclusivity within organizations. The conversation highlights the various pathways to a career in this field and concludes with resources for further learning. Elizabth will be joining AORE for the 2025...

So You Want to Be a Race Director?

Advancing the Outdoor Professional

In this conversation, Candace Brendler interviews John Lacroix, the race director of the Human Potential Running Series, discussing the multifaceted role of a race director, the importance of risk management, community building through volunteerism, and the unique challenges of organizing trail running events. John shares insights into his career journey, the logistics involved in race planning, and the essential qualities and experiences needed to be a successful race director. In this conversation, John Lacroix discusses the unique mindset required for trail running and race directing,...

So You Want to Create Awesome Youth Leadership Development Programs?

Advancing the Outdoor Professional

In this conversation, Candace Brendler speaks with Elliot Drake-Maurer, the High School Leader Coordinator for the Oregon State University Extension Outdoor School. They discuss the structure and impact of outdoor education programs, the role of high school leaders, and the importance of inclusivity in outdoor experiences. Elliot shares his career journey, the barriers faced by students, and the significance of listening to community needs. The conversation also touches on the upcoming AORE Inclusive Summit and the importance of professional development in outdoor education. Elliot will...

So You Want to Operate a Mobile Wilderness Program?

Advancing the Outdoor Professional

In this conversation, Candace Brendler speaks with Micah Leinbach, the executive director of the BOAT Bus, about the innovative mobile wilderness program designed to make outdoor education more accessible. They discuss the importance of inclusion in outdoor recreation, the unique model of the BOAT Bus, and the challenges and strategies related to funding, insurance, and partnerships. Micah shares insights from his career journey, the daily operations of the BOAT Bus, and the significance of collaboration in the outdoor education space. Micah discusses the importance of collaboration...

So You Want to Use Data Science to Create Accessible Environments?

Advancing the Outdoor Professional

In this conversation, Candace Brendler speaks with Courtney Schultz, PhD, about the intersection of data science and accessibility in outdoor environments. They discuss the importance of using data to create inclusive spaces, the role of research in understanding community needs, and the necessity of innovative approaches to surveying and data collection. Courtney shares her career journey, emphasizing the blend of practical experience in outdoor recreation with academic research. The discussion also touches on leadership in creating inclusive organizations and the urgent need to redefine...

So You Want to Create Adaptive Recreation Opportunities?

Advancing the Outdoor Professional

Check out Candace Brendler's conversation with Joe Stone, co-owner of Dovetail Trails Consulting, about the importance of creating adaptive and accessible recreation opportunities for people with disabilities. They discuss the role of Dovetail in advocating for disability rights, the challenges faced in making trails accessible, and the significance of providing detailed trail information. Joe shares his personal journey into this field, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and the involvement of people with disabilities in the process. The conversation concludes with an invitation to the...

More Episodes

In this episode, Anthony Iracki, the professional development manager at Playcore, discusses his career in parks and recreation and how it intersects with outdoor recreation. He shares with podcast host Candace Brendler his journey from working in local parks and recreation departments to his current role in professional development. Anthony emphasizes the importance of starting at the local level, such as internships or volunteer opportunities, to gain experience and understanding of land management and programming. He also highlights the diverse range of positions available in parks and recreation, from programming to conservation to community outreach. Anthony encourages individuals to explore opportunities in their own communities and build relationships with local agencies and organizations. He also discusses the competitive nature of the field and the varying salaries, but emphasizes the value of working in a field that aligns with one's passion. Anthony concludes by emphasizing the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in parks and recreation, and the role of parks in bringing communities together.

About Anthony

As an experienced Professional Development Manager, Anthony Iracki is dedicated to making a positive impact in the park and recreation industry. Based in Michigan, he's passionate about promoting equity, innovative programming, and community engagement.

Anthony empowers professionals and organizations with cutting-edge education and training solutions, driving results and inspiring success. His proven track record of contributions to the growth and development of park and recreation professionals and agencies is a testament to his expertise and commitment to the industry.

Anthony is a highly regarded speaker and writer in the park and recreation industry. He has spoken at numerous state and national conferences, sharing his expertise and innovative ideas. His writings have been published in state and national publications, showcasing his commitment to advancing the field.

Anthony's impactful contributions as a speaker and writer have solidified his reputation as a thought leader, expanding his network within the industry and inspiring professionals nationwide. His multi-award-winning career includes the:

2020 NRPA Robert W. Crawford Young Professional of The Year Award
2020 Ferris State University Alumni Pacesetter
2019 American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration Externship
2018 WPRA Recreation Section Young Professional of The Year Award
2017 WPRA Presidents Award
2016 NRPA Young Professional Fellowship
2008 YMCA of The Capital Area Director of The Year Award

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