The Weekly Parks and Rec Post

NEW EPISODES ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL

Turning Creativity into Community Impact with Veronica Duarte

What does it look like when creativity, community, and parks & recreation collide? 🎨🌳

In this episode of The Daily Parks & Rec Show, host Craig LeBlanc sits down with Veronica Duarte, Arts Program Coordinator for Cobb County, GA.

Veronica shares how she went from introverted singer and visual artist to leading arts programming, building community connections, and helping her department step into modern content creation, from TikToks to podcasts to cross-facility media distribution.

The TRUE Impact of Youth Sports: Life Skills, Community & Legacy

Join host Veronica Duarte live from GRPA 2025 as she sits down with Chandler Nobles, Athletics Coordinator and true Parks & Rec professional, to talk about his journey from sports-loving student to community leader.

Chandler shares powerful insights for new professionals, advice for first-time conference attendees, and a heartfelt look at why Parks & Recreation is more than a job, it’s a service, a calling, and a legacy.

How GRPA Builds Community: Leadership Lessons with TJ Imberger & Danielle Schofill

Join host Veronica Duarte live from the GRPA Conference in Jekyll Island as she sits down with two powerhouse leaders in Parks & Recreation — TJ Imberger, Past President of GRPA, and Danielle Schofill, GRPA Conference Co-Chair.

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, they dive into:

✔️ Why Parks & Rec is more than a career — it’s a calling

✔️ How GRPA builds community, family, and leadership

✔️ Tips for first-time conference attendees

✔️ The real impact Parks & Rec professionals make daily

✔️ Advice for college students entering the field

✔️ The many career paths beyond programming

Creating Programs That Matter: Inside Gainesville’s Parks & Rec Movement

Ready to be inspired by the next generation of Parks & Recreation leaders?

In this episode of The Daily Parks and Rec Show, Veronica sits down with Dalnik, a 23-year-old Recreation Program Coordinator from Gainesville City, to talk about his first GRPA Conference, building new sports programs from the ground up, and finding purpose through community.

From launching a brand-new flag football program, creating the city’s first futsal tournament, and growing adult soccer pickup nights—Dalnik shares how being a young professional in Parks & Rec allows him to blend passion, athletics, and service into a meaningful career.

How PSG Energy Is Transforming Parks with Pro-Level Sports Lighting

Step inside the GRPA 2025 Convention with Craig LeBlanc as he interviews Wes Livingston and Marc Minichello of PSG Energy Services — a national leader in sports lighting, LED upgrades, solar energy, and EV charging solutions for Parks and Recreation agencies across the country.

From lighting Little League fields to powering universities and the Atlanta Braves, PSG shares how turnkey energy services are transforming parks, boosting community safety, lowering operating costs, and creating pro-level experiences for youth athletes.

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.

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:

The Trials and Tribulations of Being the Face of Henry County Parks and Recreation

By Cosia Crum-Ewing, Henry County Parks and Recreation

Of all the roles I’ve ever played in life, I never expected to audition for “the face of Parks and Recreation,” but that is where I found myself, stationed at the front desk, armed with a phone, a computer, and a customer-service smile that had to survive eight hours a day. As an administrative assistant, I quickly learned that being the first person people see, hear, and occasionally vent to is both an honor and a trial by fire. The job came with plenty of tribulations, but it also pushed me far beyond my comfort zone and taught me more about people, patience, and myself than I ever anticipated.

Before this job, stepping outside my comfort zone usually meant trying a new restaurant. Suddenly, I was answering nonstop phone calls, greeting walk-ins, explaining programs I had just learned about five minutes earlier, and confidently saying, “Let me help you with that,” even when I was internally panicking. There was no hiding behind a screen or blending into the background, I was the go to person. Over time, the nerves faded, replaced by confidence and adaptability. I learned how to think on my feet, communicate clearly, and handle situations I never could have prepared for.

One of the most memorable parts of the job has been meeting people from every possible background. Parks and Recreation truly serve everyone, and that meant my daily interactions range from excited kids signing up for summer camp to seniors asking about fitness classes, parents juggling schedules, and community members just looking for a place to belong. Each person brings a different story, personality, and expectation to the counter. Some conversations are quick and cheerful; others require patience, empathy, and a calm tone. Together, they paint a vivid picture of a diverse and dynamic community and remind me that no two days are ever the same.

Despite the occasional chaos, being able to help others and put smiles on their faces make everything worthwhile. There’s something incredibly satisfying about solving a problem, answering a question, or helping someone register for an activity about which they’re genuinely excited. Watching frustration melt into relief, or seeing someone light up when they realize they can join that class after all, make even the busiest days feel meaningful. Sometimes, it isn’t even about fixing a problem, it is just listening and helping someone feel seen.

Of course, no tale of Parks and Recreation glory would be complete without mentioning the challenges. There are days when the phone won’t stop ringing, the printer decides to revolt, and three people urgently need help at the same time. Balancing multiple tasks while maintaining a friendly demeanor is an art form. I have learned how to prioritize, stay organized, and keep my composure even when things go sideways. Each challenge has tested me but also strengthened my problem-solving skills and resilience.

In the end, being the “face of Parks and Recreation” has been equal parts challenging and rewarding. It has pushed me out of my comfort zone, introduced me to incredible people, and showed me the power of helping others, one smile at a time. The trials and tribulations are real, but so is the growth. And honestly, I wouldn’t trade these front desk adventures for anything.

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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!

👩🏻‍💻 Behind the Front Desk: The Real Face of Parks and Recreation

In “The Trials and Tribulations of Being the Face of Henry County Parks and Recreation,” Cosia Crum-Ewing offers an honest, relatable look at what it truly means to be the first point of contact in Parks and Recreation.

From nonstop phone calls to walk-in questions and high-pressure moments, Cosia shares how stepping into a front-desk role pushed her far beyond her comfort zone—and helped her grow in confidence, adaptability, and empathy. Her story highlights the often-unseen emotional labor of customer service, and the powerful impact front-line staff have on shaping community experiences.

The article reminds us that Parks and Rec serve everyone—kids, seniors, parents, and community members searching for connection. While the challenges are real, so are the rewards: solving problems, easing frustrations, and helping people feel seen and supported.

This is a must-read for anyone who’s ever been “the face” of a department—or who wants a deeper appreciation for the people who keep Parks and Recreation welcoming, one interaction at a time.

📣 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