The Weekly Parks and Rec Post

NEW EPISODES ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL!

State Associations & Partnerships in Parks & Rec

In this episode of The Daily Parks and Rec Show, Craig LeBlanc dives deep into State Associations, strategic partnerships, and the exciting growth of DPRS Media Co. in Phase 3. From master planning to urban forestry, and from youth sports to facility maintenance, discover how parks and recreation professionals are collaborating to elevate communities nationwide.

Parks & Rec Leadership: Master Planning & Community Impact

In this episode of the Leadership Series on The Daily Parks & Rec Show, host Craig LeBlanc sits down with Seve Ghose, a veteran parks and recreation leader, to talk about:

• Building inclusive master plans that actually work for communities

• Why youth sports shape life skills and future leaders

• Using data & technology to connect with residents in real time

• How Parks & Rec provides essential health & wellness services

• Stories of leadership, lessons from sports, and the future of recreation

How a Parks & Rec Career Serves a Million People

In this episode of The Daily Parks & Rec Show, Craig LeBlanc sits down with Ronald Anderson, Assistant Director of Parks for Westchester County, NY. Ronald shares his inspiring journey from his first park job at 16 to overseeing 50+ facilities, 18,000 acres of land, 6 golf courses, beaches, pools, and more.

How AI is Transforming Parks & Rec

In this episode of The Daily Parks & Rec Show, host Craig LeBlanc sits down with Brian Dixon of Henry County Parks & Rec to explore how AI is changing the way we work, plan, and lead. From facility maintenance to turf management to everyday workflows, AI is a tool that can save time, cut costs, and empower teams.

Parks & Rec Goes Esports?! Henry County GA Builds a Gaming Revolution

Esports in Parks & Recreation?! 🤯 Yes, it’s happening—and Henry County, GA is leading the charge! In this must-watch episode of The Rec Room, we pull back the curtain on one of the first Parks & Rec departments in the nation to create a cutting-edge esports facility inside a rec center.

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:

FEATURED RESOURCE:

LEAD FROM WITHIN BY DEBBIE WOODBURY

Founder & Managing Director, Meritology Institute

“Leadership isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about having the courage to ask the right questions, build the right relationships, and lead with clarity and confidence.”

In her powerful new book, Lead From Within, Debbie Woodbury offers a bold and refreshing leadership guide for professionals who juggle purpose, pressure, and people every day—particularly those serving in community-focused fields such as parks and recreation.

This inspiring resource dives into the real challenges of leadership, addressing:

• Impostor syndrome

• Burnout

• Boundaries

• Feedback culture

With honesty and practical strategies, Debbie draws from her experience as a seasoned parks and recreation professional turned leadership strategist. Lead From Within is a must-read for those looking to grow personally, lead effectively, and achieve lasting success.

➡️ Learn more at www.meritgoals.com

➡️Order your copy here: Amazon

THE ROLE OF PARKS AND REC IN BUILDING INCLUSIVE COMMUNITIES

When we think about parks, it’s easy to picture playgrounds, open fields, and walking trails. But beyond recreation, parks play a vital role in shaping communities where everyone feels welcome, valued, and included.

🌳 Parks as Gathering Spaces for All

Parks provide neutral ground, a space where people of different ages, backgrounds, and cultures can come together. Whether its kids playing on the same swing set, seniors gathering for morning walks, or families from diverse cultures sharing a picnic, parks naturally create opportunities for connection across differences.

🎭 Celebrating Diversity Through Programs

Inclusive parks don’t just welcome everyone—they actively celebrate community diversity. From cultural festivals and heritage days to multilingual signage and adaptive recreation programs, parks can reflect the unique identities of the people they serve. These efforts send a powerful message: you belong here.

♿ Accessible and Adaptive Spaces

True inclusion means ensuring everyone has access. Parks that incorporate ADA-compliant playgrounds, accessible trails, and adaptive sports programs open doors for individuals with disabilities to enjoy recreation fully. These thoughtful designs transform parks into places of empowerment and equity.

🤝 Strengthening Social Bonds

By fostering inclusive programs and spaces, parks help reduce barriers and build mutual respect among community members. They become platforms for dialogue, collaboration, and shared experiences that strengthen the bonds between neighbors.

💡 The Takeaway

Parks aren’t just amenities—they’re catalysts for inclusion. By prioritizing accessibility, celebrating diversity, and creating spaces where everyone feels they belong, parks help build stronger, more connected, and more resilient communities.

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!

🛝 Lead from Within

As we wrap up this edition, we’re inspired by the reminder that true leadership comes from within. Debbie Woodbury’s Lead From Within challenges us to lead with courage, clarity, and confidence—skills that resonate deeply with those of us serving our communities every day.

Whether you’re navigating boundaries, tackling burnout, or striving to empower your team, Debbie’s insights offer practical strategies and encouragement to keep growing both personally and professionally.

👉🏻 Explore more at www.meritgoals.com

👉🏻 Order your copy of Lead From Within here: Amazon

Together, let’s continue building stronger leaders and stronger communities. 💚

🌳 The Role of Parks in Building Inclusive Communities

We highlighted how parks serve as powerful catalysts for inclusion. By providing welcoming spaces, celebrating cultural diversity, and ensuring accessibility for all, parks create opportunities for connection and belonging. Inclusive parks strengthen neighborhoods by breaking down barriers, fostering respect, and bringing people together across differences.

Takeaway: Parks aren’t just places to play—they’re places where everyone belongs.

📺 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