The Weekly Parks and Rec Post

NEW EPISODES ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL

How Parks & Rec Save Communities Every Day

At the NRPA Conference 2025, Parks & Recreation leaders Shonnda Smith and Roslyn Johnson join host Craig to redefine what it means to serve communities.

From delivering 4 million meals during COVID to boosting local economies and public safety, this powerful conversation reminds us why Parks & Rec isn’t “extra” — it’s essential.

Discover how these two trailblazing women lead with purpose, advocate for funding, and empower others to share their stories and submit sessions for future NRPA events.

How to Lead with Purpose in Parks & Recreation with Johnathan O. Skinner

In this episode of The Daily Parks and Rec Show’s Leadership Series, host Craig LeBlanc sits down with Johnathan O. Skinner, Director of Community Services for the City of Lake Elsinore, California, to explore what true leadership looks like in Parks and Recreation. 🌳

From his beginnings as a “Rec Kid” at just 7 years old to leading major community programs and city-wide master plans, Jonathan shares how communication, storytelling, and mentorship are transforming Parks & Rec into a movement that builds legacy across generations.

How Martin Nembhard Is Transforming Austin's Parks

In this episode of The Daily Parks and Rec Show, host Craig LeBlanc sits down with Martin Nembhard, Vice President of Park Operations at Waterloo Greenway Conservancy in Austin, Texas. 🌳

From his roots in Jamaica to leading transformative urban park projects in New York City, Miami, and Austin, Martin shares how parks serve as powerful connectors — healing divides, sparking creativity, and shaping the future of cities.

Smart Parks, Strong Communities: Inside Wallingford’s Parks & Rec with Kenny Michaels

From tech upgrades to community-driven capital projects, Wallingford, Connecticut is redefining what it means to serve through Parks and Recreation. 💡

In this episode, Kenny Michaels joins Craig LeBlanc to talk about:

🏗 How his team tackled a $10M pool and splash pad renovation project

💻 The rise of software and “smart city” tools transforming local parks

🤖 How STEM programs and robotics are getting kids engaged beyond sports

🎮 The future of Esports, Padel, and family recreation trends

💬 And why “playing for a living” is more than just a job—it’s a calling.

Inside Snohomish County Parks with Chelsea Kapica

Ever wondered what it’s like to be a county park ranger in charge of over 11,000 acres of trails, lakes, and campgrounds? 🌲 Join us as we sit down with Chelsea Kapica, Park Ranger and Law Enforcement Instructor from Snohomish County Parks & Recreation, to uncover the real world of ranger life—beyond the badge and the trail.

Chelsea shares her journey from environmental studies to protecting public lands, teaching future rangers, and inspiring the next generation to get “paid in sunsets.” 🌅

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.

Youth Sports or Youth Stress? Scott Laigo on Bringing Back the Joy of the Game

Welcome to Youth Sports Mastery, powered by DPRS Media Co. and sponsored by the National Academy of Athletics (NAofA).

Why are so many kids quitting sports by age 13? 🏀⚽

In this milestone 200th episode, Aaron Locks (CEO of the National Academy of Athletics) and Scott Laigo (Student Athlete Advocates) uncover the real reasons behind youth sports burnout — and what parents, coaches, and rec leaders can do to bring the joy back to the game.

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:

MAKING RECREATION ACCESSIBLE TO ALL

Recreation is more than leisure, it is a pathway to health, connection, and community belonging. As Parks and Recreation agencies continue evolving in response to community needs, one mission stands at the heart of every program and facility we build: ensuring recreation is accessible to everyone.

From mobility-friendly playgrounds to inclusive programming for neurodiverse participants, accessibility is no longer an option. It is a responsibility.

Designing Spaces Without Barriers

When communities design with accessibility in mind from the very beginning, the result is a space where every resident—regardless of ability, age, or background—can participate confidently. Parks across the country are incorporating:

• Smooth, ADA-compliant pathways

• Wheelchair-accessible playground structures

• Adaptive sports courts and equipment

• Inclusive signage with large text, icons, and braille

Programs That Welcome All Abilities

Accessible recreation extends beyond physical spaces. It includes creating programs that truly reflect the diversity of the community.

Parks and Rec departments are introducing:

• Sensory-friendly events for individuals on the autism spectrum

• Adaptive aquatics and fitness programs

• Low-cost and scholarship-based registrations

• Bilingual or multilingual guides and staff

Technology as an Inclusion Tool

Digital tools are transforming the way communities deliver accessible recreation. Online registration portals with text-to-speech features, virtual program options, and GPS-enabled trail maps with difficulty levels all make recreation easier to navigate for participants with different needs.

Even small tech upgrades—like hearing-assist devices in community centers or virtual reality previews of facilities—can empower individuals to make informed choices about their recreational activities.

Community Partnerships Strengthen Inclusion

Accessible recreation thrives when local government, nonprofits, schools, and advocates collaborate. Partnerships with disability organizations help guide facility design and programming. Volunteers support inclusive camps and adaptive sports leagues. Sponsorships make funding possible for specialized equipment.

Together, these collaborations create a stronger, safer, and more inclusive recreational environment.

The Path Forward: Recreation for Everyone

The future of Parks and Recreation is rooted in inclusivity. By investing in accessible spaces, expanding adaptive programming, and empowering residents of all abilities to participate, communities build more than parks—they build opportunities, equity, and connection.

Accessible recreation is not just good practice—it’s community-building at its best.

UPCOMING SHOWS SCHEDULE

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:

🎬 Fresh Episodes Now Streaming

Catch the latest conversations and community highlights on our YouTube channel! New episodes feature insights from park leaders, facility experts, and youth sports advocates. Be sure to like, subscribe, and share with fellow parks and rec pros.

🌳 Making Recreation Accessible to All

Accessible recreation isn’t just an initiative—it’s a commitment to building communities where everyone can thrive. As Parks and Recreation professionals, every ramp installed, every sensory-friendly program launched, and every partnership formed is a step toward a more inclusive future.

The work doesn’t end with accessible playgrounds or adaptive classes. It continues in the everyday decisions we make:

✔ Designing facilities with empathy

✔ Listening to community voices

✔ Ensuring affordability and eliminating barriers

✔ Embracing technology that empowers every user

When we center accessibility in everything we do, we create spaces where belonging becomes the standard, not the exception.

Let’s keep leading the movement. Let’s champion accessibility.

And together, let’s make recreation truly for everyone—today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.

📣 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