Rooted in Community: How Civic Leadership is Elevating Northeast Ohio
Cleveland Metroparks Tales & Trails Podcast
Release Date: 11/03/2025
Growing Outside: How Cleveland Metroparks Inspires the Next Generation
Cleveland Metroparks Tales & Trails Podcast
Education and recreation programs across Cleveland Metroparks serve over a half million people each year. Hear from Mary Rouse, the Director of Outdoor Experiences, on how education connects people of all ages to nature as we take a deep dive into education philosophy, nature preschools, top adventures for families and more.
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Partnering for a Healthier Region with MetroHealth
Cleveland Metroparks Tales & Trails Podcast
In this episode of Tales & Trails presented by KeyBank, Cleveland Metroparks CEO Brian Zimmerman connects with Dr. Christine Alexander-Rager, President and CEO of MetroHealth, on how the Park District and public hospital system are partnering for a healthier region.
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Power of Community: How Donors Make the Difference at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
Cleveland Metroparks Tales & Trails Podcast
The Cleveland Zoological Society has been a proud nonprofit partner of Cleveland Metroparks Zoo for nearly 70 years. Hear from Sarah Crupi, Chief Executive Officer of the Zoo Society, and Board Chair Christine Myeroff on recent improvements to the Zoo, why philanthropic and community support is so critical, and big plans ahead for the Zoo’s 150th anniversary.
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From the Hardwood to the Trail: Nic Barlage on Civic Pride and Regional Wins
Cleveland Metroparks Tales & Trails Podcast
In this episode of Cleveland Metroparks Tales & Trails podcast, Rock Entertainment Group CEO Nic Barlage joins us to explore how the Cleveland Cavaliers’ recent partnership with Cleveland Metroparks celebrates the city’s spirit on and off the court. From City Edition jerseys that honor the Emerald Necklace to community initiatives that plant trees and foster civic pride, Nic shares how sports, nature, innovation and collaboration strengthen our region.
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Rooted in Community: How Civic Leadership is Elevating Northeast Ohio
Cleveland Metroparks Tales & Trails Podcast
Yvette Ittu has been a regional leader for over 40 years at the intersection of finance, planning and government. On this episode of Tales & Trails, you can hear her story on the power of parks, people and public investment and how volunteerism and civic leadership is playing a major role in shaping the economic revitalization of our region.
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Key Connections: Reflections on Legacy, Leadership & Community 200 Years in the Making
Cleveland Metroparks Tales & Trails Podcast
In this episode of Tales & Trails presented by KeyBank, Cleveland Metroparks CEO Brian Zimmerman sits down with Trina Evans, Chief of Staff and Director of Corporate Center at KeyBank, to celebrate Key’s remarkable 200-year milestone. From bringing back the beloved ZooKeys to championing STEM education, Trina reveals how KeyBank partners with the community to create a lasting impact through legacy, innovation, vision and enduring values.
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Growing the Game: Why Public Golf Matters More Than Ever
Cleveland Metroparks Tales & Trails Podcast
Pat Jones has been a passionate advocate for the golf industry for 30 years and a business media executive for most of his adult life. Hear from Pat on this golf-centric episode where we swing into the growing game of golf, industry trends, tips from the pros & more.
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From Landfill to Landmark: The Story of West Creek Reservation
Cleveland Metroparks Tales & Trails Podcast
A shopping center, a golf course and a landfill were some of the proposed or former uses for the scenic natural landscapes and waterways that make up West Creek Reservation. Hear from Derek Schafer, Executive Director of West Creek Conservancy, on how Cleveland Metroparks 16th park reservation came to be and where it’s headed.
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Park Secrets & Founding Stories: A Century of Cleveland Metroparks
Cleveland Metroparks Tales & Trails Podcast
First established in 1917, Cleveland Metroparks has been a pioneer in the parks and recreation field since its inception. Hear from lead park historian Judy MacKeigan on park founder William Stinchcomb, turbulent and exuberant times for the Park District over the past century and unique finds, anecdotes and artifacts she’s uncovered over the past 15 years.
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Pushing Limits, Making Waves: Katie Spotz’s Journey for Clean Water
Cleveland Metroparks Tales & Trails Podcast
Katie Spotz is an endurance athlete, charitable ambassador, author, world-record holder and a native of Northeast Ohio. When she’s not out competing in Ironman triathlons, cycling across the country or rowing across the Atlantic Ocean, she’s probably training in Cleveland Metroparks. Hear how Katie is testing her limits in the Emerald Necklace and abroad to raise awareness for safe drinking water projects around the world.
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