The Weekly Parks and Rec Post

NEW EPISODES ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL

Smart Cities & Parks: Craig Dolan on OutdoorLink’s Impact

From NRPA Conference 2025 in Orlando, FL, Craig LeBlanc sits down with Craig Dolan of OutdoorLink to explore how Parks & Recreation is powering the future of Smart Cities. 🌆

From his 17-year career in Parks & Rec leadership to joining OutdoorLink, Craig shares how technology like IoT-powered controls for field lights, splash pads, bus stops, and restrooms is helping communities save money, improve safety, and thrive.

This episode also dives into the essential role of Parks & Rec as a lifeline—building healthier, safer, and more connected communities. 🌳💡

Dr. Joshua Medeiros on Why Parks & Rec is an Essential Service

Craig LeBlanc sits down with Dr. Joshua Medeiros, the new NRPA Chair, to discuss the future of Parks and Recreation. 🌳

In this powerful conversation, Dr. Medeiros explains why Parks & Rec is more than a luxury—it’s an essential service for health, safety, equity, and community building. From the seven dimensions of wellness to the role of data in proving impact, this episode reframes the way we view Parks & Rec.

Georgia Parks & Rec Leaders on Community, Wellness & Equity

In this episode of the Daily Parks and Rec Show, host Craig LeBlanc sits down with incredible leaders from the Georgia Recreation and Park Association (GRPA) during the NRPA Conference 2025. 🌳

Hear from Thomas White, Tim Estes, and Dadrian Cosby as they share insights on:

• Why Parks & Rec is an essential service—not just “nice to have”

• How recreation builds community, wellness, and equity

• Georgia’s unique approach to leadership, inclusion, and professional growth

• Upcoming GRPA initiatives and the future of Parks & Rec in the state

Creating Leaders in Parks & Rec with Gabby Vera

In this episode of The Daily Parks & Rec Show, host Craig LeBlanc sits down with Gabby Vera, Parks & Rec Director at Lake Havasu City, AZ, during the NRPA Conference 2025.

Gabby shares her incredible journey from being an after-school program kid in Miami-Dade County to becoming a driving force in Arizona’s parks and rec scene. She talks about:

• Her roots as a self-proclaimed “park rat”

• The power of mentorship and networking in Parks & Rec

• How the Young Professionals Network (YPN) is shaping future leaders

• Advice for young people considering a career in the field

• Her vision for Parks & Rec in the next 5–10 years

Why Parks & Rec is Essential: Leadership Insights with Cindi King

In this special Leadership Series episode of The Daily Parks and Rec Show, host Craig LeBlanc sits down with Cindi King, incoming President of the North Carolina Recreation & Park Association (NCRPA), live from the NRPA Conference 2025 in Orlando, Florida. 🌴✨

Cindi shares her incredible journey in Parks and Recreation—from lifeguarding and aquatics leadership to becoming a key voice for the profession in North Carolina. She talks about:

• The power of resiliency and leadership in Parks & Rec 💪

• Why aquatics and swimming are life-saving essentials 🌊

• The importance of networking at NRPA and beyond 🤝

• Her vision for the future of Parks & Recreation in NC and nationally 🌎

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 RECREATION SHAPES NATIONAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS TRENDS

When we think about health and wellness, the focus often lands on hospitals, gyms, or nutrition programs. But there’s an often-overlooked powerhouse quietly driving national wellness: parks and recreation. Across the country, recreation departments and community programs are not just providing fun and leisure—they’re actively shaping the nation’s approach to health, prevention, and social connection.

Recreation as Preventive Healthcare

Studies show that consistent participation in physical recreation—like walking, swimming, or group sports—can reduce chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. Parks and recreation agencies are, in essence, community wellness hubs, offering accessible ways for people of all ages to stay active without financial or logistical barriers.

Local governments are recognizing this too. Many are integrating recreation programs into public health strategies—seeing them as the first line of defense in preventive care rather than optional leisure.

Mental Health and Social Connection

Health isn’t just physical—it’s emotional and social. Recreation spaces foster inclusion, community pride, and belonging. Whether it’s a senior fitness class, a youth art program, or a weekend family hike, these experiences help combat loneliness and depression—issues that have become national health priorities.

As more people search for mindful ways to cope with stress, recreation has emerged as a natural therapy—an accessible antidote to digital burnout and isolation.

Wellness Trends Driven by Parks & Rec

From outdoor yoga and pickleball to wellness festivals and adaptive recreation, the trends shaping national health are often born in local parks. The rise of “active living communities” and “nature prescriptions” highlight how recreation professionals are leading the wellness conversation—blending nature, fitness, and community engagement into one holistic experience.

Even tech-driven trends like fitness tracking and outdoor events are finding synergy with local programs, helping more residents see parks as integral to their daily wellness routines.

The Road Ahead: Recreation as a National Health Partner

The future of wellness depends on collaboration—and recreation is poised to be a key partner in national health initiatives. As federal and state health agencies emphasize prevention, mental wellness, and equitable access, parks and recreation departments are stepping up as essential public health allies.

Every walking trail, playground, and community event represents more than just leisure—it’s a strategic investment in the nation’s collective well-being.

Takeaway

Recreation isn’t just shaping how we play—it’s redefining how we live, connect, and stay healthy. The next time you see a full park or a bustling rec center, remember that’s the sound of a healthier nation in motion.

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 Recreation Shapes National Health and Wellness Trends

Recreation is more than a local service—it’s a national movement. Every park upgrade, youth program, and fitness class contributes to a stronger, healthier country. As health challenges evolve, parks and recreation remain one of the few public spaces where wellness, community, and equity naturally intersect.

From reducing healthcare costs to improving mental well-being, the impact of recreation reaches far beyond the playground. It’s where prevention begins, friendships form, and wellness becomes a shared responsibility.

So, the next time your community gathers at the park, remember—you’re not just participating in recreation; you’re part of a growing effort that’s reshaping the nation’s health, one community 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