The Weekly Parks and Rec Post

NEW EPISODES ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL!

Project Mastery for Project Managers with Daniel Shafer & Craig LeBlanc

In this episode of Facility Maintenance, Craig LeBlanc sits down with Daniel Shafer to unpack the real-world lessons behind project management in parks and recreation—from planning and funding to unexpected challenges and stakeholder buy-in.

What Every Young Parks & Rec Pro Should Hear

From storm spotting to spotlighting parks, Megan Keul's path into Parks & Recreation was anything but traditional. In this episode, Craig LeBlanc sits down with one of NRPA’s 30 Under 30 awardees and national fellow to discuss the power of storytelling, community branding, and what it really takes to be a young leader in public service.

Top 10 Reasons You Should Join Parks & Recreation

Why do so many professionals dedicate their lives to Parks and Recreation? In this episode, Craig LeBlanc, founder of DPRS Media Co, shares the Top 10 Reasons why Parks & Rec is one of the most meaningful careers out there — straight from hundreds of interviews with directors, superintendents, and public servants across America.🌳

From Summer Camp to Leadership: Audrey Cooper’s Journey in Parks & Rec

Step into the inspiring world of Parks and Recreation leadership with host Craig LeBlanc and special guest Audrey Cooper in this episode of The Leadership Series. 🌳 From humble beginnings in summer camps to becoming a leader in the field, Audrey shares valuable lessons on conflict resolution, cultural understanding, project management, and protecting natural resources. 🌊

Creative Budgeting & Big Events: Inside Henry County’s Parks & Rec with Michelle Dunn

What does it take to run one of the most decorated Parks & Recreation departments in America? In this episode of The Daily Parks & Rec Show, host Craig LeBlanc sits down with Michelle Dunn, Deputy Administrator for Henry County, Georgia Parks & Recreation, to talk about her 23-year journey—from answering phones to leading events, managing budgets, and building a strong team culture.

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:

HOW PARKS BRING PEOPLE TOGETHER: STORIES OF COMMUNITY CONNECTION

If you ask people what they love most about their community park, chances are their answers won’t just be about the walking trails, playgrounds, or sports fields. More often, they’ll talk about moments—the friendships formed at the playground, the neighbors they finally met during a park cleanup, or the sense of belonging felt during a summer concert under the stars.

Parks are more than green spaces. They are the heart of community connection.

👨‍👩‍👧 Families Finding Common Ground

Take weekend playdates, for example. Parents meet on the sidelines while their kids swing, climb, and laugh together. Before long, those casual hellos turn into shared birthday parties, carpool arrangements, and lasting friendships. Parks naturally break down barriers by giving families a safe and welcoming space to connect.

🎶 Events that Spark Togetherness

Community events—like outdoor movie nights, farmers markets, and cultural festivals—bring people from all walks of life together. These gatherings remind us that we don’t have to travel far to experience joy, entertainment, and the richness of diverse cultures.

🌿 Volunteering with Purpose

Park volunteer programs are another way neighbors grow closer. Whether it’s planting trees, picking up litter, or helping with recreation programs, volunteers don’t just make parks better—they make their community stronger. Working side by side builds a sense of pride and ownership that extends well beyond the park’s borders.

🧘 Parks as Shared Spaces for Wellness

From yoga in the park to walking groups, recreational programs promote both health and human connection. People often join for fitness but stay for the friendships. These shared experiences remind us that well-being thrives in community, not isolation.

💡 The Takeaway

Parks aren’t just about recreation—they’re about relationships. Every bench conversation, team huddle, and neighborhood event strengthens the social fabric that holds our communities together. When we invest in our parks, we’re investing in connection, belonging, and a healthier future for everyone.

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.

🎤 Special Guests:

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

🛝 How Parks Bring People Together

This week, we explored how parks serve as more than just green spaces—they’re the heart of community connection. From families bonding at playgrounds and neighbors meeting at events, to volunteers working side by side and wellness programs that spark friendships, parks strengthen the social fabric of our communities. Every conversation, event, and shared activity helps build belonging, pride, and healthier neighborhoods.

Takeaway: Investing in parks means investing in people—and in the connections that make communities thrive.

📺 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