The Weekly Parks and Rec Post

NEW EPISODES ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL

Creativity, Community and Storytelling in Parks & Rec with Sam Sawnick

In this episode of The Daily Parks and Rec Show, we sit down with Sam Sawnick, Marketing and Programs Supervisor for the City of Trenton, Michigan, to explore how creativity fuels community.

From revitalizing Trenton’s Summer Festival and adopting parks, to launching free art programs and leading marketing innovation, Sam shares how storytelling, design, and heart are redefining what Parks & Recreation can be.

The Origin of DPRS Media Co: Building a Voice for Parks & Recreation

Ever wondered how The Daily Parks and Rec Show got started? In this special solo episode, host Craig LeBlanc shares the full origin story of DPRS Media Co. from his roots as a Parks & Rec vendor and the lessons learned from the Bitcoin Daily Show to launching a full-scale media company dedicated to uplifting Parks and Recreation professionals nationwide.

Jeanne Sprague on Building Inclusive Parks

In our 300th episode, we head to the stunning Oregon Coast with Jeanne Sprague, Director of Parks & Recreation for Lincoln City, Oregon 🌊.

Jeannie shares her incredible journey from lifeguard to leading one of the most scenic and inclusive park systems in the country.

Discover how Lincoln City Parks & Rec is redefining inclusion, accessibility, and community connection, and why Parks and Recreation is more than fun and games, it’s essential.

Breaking Barriers: How Roslyn Johnson Became a Trailblazer in Parks & Rec

Discover how Roslyn Johnson, Director of Annapolis Parks & Recreation and former Maryland Recreation & Parks Association President, is transforming communities through innovation, equity, and leadership.

From serving 4 million meals during COVID to pioneering the nation’s first glass LED gym floor, Roslyn shares powerful insights on leadership, diversity, innovation, and the future of parks and recreation.

The Power of Inclusion in Parks and Rec with Pam Salokangas

In this inspiring episode, Pam Salokangas shares her 28-year journey from hotel management to becoming one of Maine’s most forward-thinking Parks & Rec leaders. Discover how she’s building inclusive playgrounds, promoting accessibility under ADA, and driving sustainability in small-town America.

From creative programming to the realities of facility maintenance, Pam’s story is a powerful reminder that Parks & Recreation isn’t extra — it’s essential. 🌲

YOUTH SPORTS MASTERY: ELEVATING THE NEXT GENERATION OF ATHLETES

Every Thursday, join us for a game-changing episode of Youth Sports Mastery, sponsored by the National Academy of Athletics and hosted by two powerhouses in the industry: Aaron Locks, CEO of the National Academy of Athletics, and Craig LeBlanc, founder of The Daily Parks and Rec Show. This dynamic duo brings you expert insights, tips, and strategies to help shape the future of youth sports.

This Show is for Anyone Who Cares About Kids, Community, and the Power of Play

What You Can Expect:

Each week, Aaron and Craig dive into the essential topics that every youth sports coach, athlete, and parent needs to know to succeed in the world of youth athletics. Whether you're looking to improve your coaching skills, enhance an athlete’s performance, or learn about the latest trends in youth sports, Youth Sports Mastery is your go-to resource.

Key Topics:

• Building Strong Athletic Foundations: Aaron and Craig discuss how to lay the groundwork for athletes at all levels, from youth beginners to aspiring professionals. They'll focus on physical conditioning, mental toughness, and the importance of fostering a love for the game.

• Coaching Strategies for Success: Coaches, this segment is for you! Get practical advice on developing effective practice plans, creating a positive team culture, and motivating young athletes to perform at their best while maintaining fun and enjoyment.

• Parent and Athlete Relationships: Youth sports are not just about the athletes—they're about the families supporting them. Aaron and Craig share ways parents can foster growth, confidence, and resilience in their young athletes while ensuring the experience remains positive and fulfilling.

• Tackling the Mental Game: One of the most critical aspects of youth sports is the mental side. Aaron and Craig delve into how athletes can develop focus, discipline, and a winning mindset, teaching young athletes how to push through challenges and stay mentally strong on and off the field.

• Injury Prevention and Recovery: Keeping athletes healthy is paramount. Learn from the experts on how to minimize the risk of injury through proper training techniques, recovery strategies, and maintaining peak physical condition.

Our Guest

Each week, we’re joined by an incredible lineup of guests, ranging from:

• Sports Coaches

• Professional Athletes

• Youth Sports Program Managers

• Parks & Rec Leaders

• Sports Officials

Why You Should Tune In:

• Expert Insights from Industry Leaders: With years of experience in both coaching and sports management, Aaron and Craig provide a wealth of knowledge on building athletic talent and achieving success in youth sports.

• Practical, Actionable Tips: Whether you're a coach or a parent, every episode is filled with strategies you can implement immediately to make a difference in your athlete’s performance and development.

• A Community of Support: This show is not just for listeners; it’s a platform for like-minded individuals to connect and share ideas, challenges, and successes. Through this community, we aim to create a supportive environment where youth athletes and those guiding them can thrive.

The Secrets to Building Better Athletes & Better Humans

On this episode of The Daily Parks and Rec Show, Youth Sports Mastery host Aaron Locks teams up with internationally respected coach John Saintignon to unpack what really matters in youth sports.

From decades of coaching experience — spanning high school, college, and nine countries of pro basketball — Coach John reveals the secrets behind building confident, resilient young athletes.

Join Us Each Thursday:

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to learn from the best in the business. Tune in every Thursday at 1:30 PM EST to Youth Sports Mastery and get the insights you need to help the next generation of athletes reach their full potential.

For Franchise Opportunities:

HANGRY HEROES AND CAFFEINATED CHAMPIONS: A PARKS & REC SURVIVAL GUIDE

By Thomas White, MPA, Henry County Parks and Recreation

The people are the most interesting (terrible!) part of working in the parks and recreation field. I don’t mean the residents. The residents are great. They are literally the reason we exist. Serving them is every park and recreation professional’s passion. We want to create a better community. We wake up thinking about it. We go to bed thinking about it. We eat and breathe service. It’s who we are.

No, the interesting (terrible!) people I am talking about are the coworkers, the other parks and recreation professionals with which we interact every day. More often than not, a big personality accompanies the passion that defines us all. As a seasoned professional with vast experience in the parks and rec field (four years), I have learned how to navigate the dangerous waters of interacting with coworkers. Here are a few tips for those new to the field.

First, make sure there is coffee. I cannot emphasize this enough. It serves two purposes. For the neurotypical in our ranks, it is a much-needed boost of energy that helps us navigate the day. It is the divine nectar from which all things great are born, the very foundation upon which our passion rests. Without it, we are grumpy and more sarcastic than normal—a deadly combination.

But coffee isn’t just a source of energy. For the higher-than-average number of ADHD people who fill our ranks, it is the calming draught that allows us to focus for the briefest of moments. In fact, it is pretty much the only reason I can write down these tips for you. As I sip my own cup of divine nectar, I am prevented from getting lost in the mental vortex that is my brain… Wait, what were we talking about?

Second, snacks should be readily available at all events. Let’s face it, most of us are so busy juggling multiple programs, facilities, and events that we forget to eat. Hangry is a real thing, and we are its champion! Without our daily glucose intake and the occasional shot of protein, we will be the ultimate pains, the very definition of Pessimist Prime. Sure, we will get the job done. Sure, we will succeed. Sure, everything will be great. But make no mistake! We will make everyone else just as miserable as we are.

Third, and most importantly, be the change you want to see. This tip is a tad more serious than the first two. YOU are the person that sets the energy in your agency. If you really want to make a positive impact on your community, it has to start with your people. It does not matter if you are the supervisor, the director, or the part-time intern shredding paper. YOU have the ability to lead. Be the energy you want to see in your office. Eventually, others will adapt to your positivity. Your smiles and exclamations of happiness will slowly chip away at the jaded shell of ice that bureaucrats develop when they see their first paycheck. You will thaw even the most stubborn ice queen, turning them into a metaphorical ray of sunshine. It may take 20 to 30 years, but don’t give up! You’ve got this, Leslie Knope!

The parks and recreation profession is difficult. We often work 60+ hours a week. We rarely take care of ourselves as we should. Thankfully, we have each other. The tons of hours we spend together forms bonds that few other professions can easily copy. We are more than coworkers. We become friends, even family. In my four years (again, vast experience) of working in the field, I have seen things that have changed how I look at government, but the most powerful is the love that my coworkers share with each other. That love is the most important tip. Be there for each other, and together, we will change the world.

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EDITOR’S PAGE

FEATURE WRAP UP 

Thanks for reading this week’s edition of The Weekly Parks and Rec Post! Here’s what’s new across The Daily Parks and Rec Show:

🎙️ Special Guest

We've lined up some incredible guests in these episodes. Don’t miss out on their inspiring stories, insights, and behind-the-scenes perspectives!

🌿 Hangry Heroes and Caffeinated Champions: A Parks & Rec Survival Guide

At the end of the day, Parks & Recreation isn’t just about programs, fields, or facilities—it’s about the people behind the scenes who keep communities thriving. Whether we survive on bottomless coffee, emergency snacks, or sheer passion, our strength comes from showing up for one another.

The long hours, unpredictable moments, and big personalities are all part of the adventure—but so is the laughter, the shared chaos, and the friendships that feel like family.

So, remember:

☕ Keep the coffee flowing.

🍎 Pack the snacks.

💛 Lead with energy and kindness.

Together, we’re not just running departments—we’re building communities, uplifting each other, and proving every day that Parks & Rec professionals are the true heroes behind the scenes.

Here’s to the caffeinated champions, the hangry heroes, and the teams that make magic happen.

You’ve got this, Parks & Rec fam, and we’re cheering for you every step of the way.

📣 Want to be part of the story?

Share how your favorite park has shaped your life or neighborhood. Your story might be featured in an upcoming edition of The Weekly Parks and Rec Post!

📺 Catch All New Episodes:

Don’t forget to check out the latest episode of The Daily Parks & Rec Show on our YouTube Channel for exciting updates and insights!

🤝 Want to Co-Create a Show with Us?

If you're a vendor or agency with deep expertise in a particular Parks and Rec field, DPRS wants to hear from you. Co-producing a show can elevate your visibility and serve the greater mission of educating and inspiring parks professionals across the country.

🔗 Get in touch with us via LinkedIn to explore collaboration ⬇️ www.linkedin.com/company/the-daily-parks-and-rec-show