- 18
- Episodes
- 4
- Ratings
- Monthly
- Cadence
- 2024
- First episode
- 2K
- YouTube views
About Ramble and Mosey
Conversations about critical issues in conservation and outdoor recreation. Celebrating the people and places that make Michigan special.
- Publisher
- Heart of the Lakes
- Category
- business
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 23 Jul 2024
- Latest episode
- 21 Aug 2026
Latest episodes
18 episodes in the feed.
21 Aug 2026
Making Room for What’s Next
We sat down with Detroit Future City's land use and design team to discuss DFC's origins, how Detroit's vacant land relates to climate resilience and stormwater management, and how the city's master planning process seeks to balance new development with community voice. We also explored what DFC learned from conservation groups in Cleveland, Baltimore, and Chicago while researching a Detroit-specific model. That research led to Saving for the Future, the report behind DFC's most ambitious project yet, the Detroit GreenSpace Conservancy. Hear about the two years of community engagement, funding, and hard conversations that got them here, and what success looks like five and ten years out. Featuring: Sarah Hayosh - Director of Land Use + Design, Detroit Future City Patrick Crouch - Program Manager of Land Use + Design, Detroit Future City Episode Links: Detroit Future City (https://detroitfuturecity.com/) Saving for the Future (https://detroitfuturecity.com/data_reports/saving-for-the-future-land-conservation-in-detroit/)
28 Jan 2026
Power of Nature
*Recorded at the 2025 Michigan Outdoor Summit.* Nature shapes us, grounds us, and sparks the stories we carry. For Detroit-based artist-journalist and organizer Ian Solomon, the outdoors is more than a backdrop, it’s a driving force in his art, community work, and vision for belonging. In this closing keynote, Ian sits down with Dan Wanschura, host of Interlochen Public Radio’s Points North podcast, for a conversation about how nature inspires creativity, fuels resilience, and connects us to each other. They’ll explore the intersections of art, access, and the transformative power of being outside. Featuring: Ian Solomon – Artist + Communications & Engagement Manager, Detroit Parks Coalition Dan Wanschura – Host + Executive Producer, Points North
28 Jan 2026
Are We Even Friends?
*Recorded at the 2025 Michigan Outdoor Summit.* The outdoors doesn’t live in a silo, and neither should we. From trails to tables, wellness to wilderness, many of us in the recreation, conservation, food, health, and outdoor sectors are already working toward shared goals. So why does it sometimes feel like we’re on parallel paths instead of walking together? This candid conversation with thought leaders sit at the intersection of these overlapping worlds. We’ll unpack the hidden connections that already exist between our fields and explore what it really takes to activate a more visible, inclusive, and powerful outdoor movement — from the inside out. Expect big questions, honest talk, and a few laughs as we ask: Are we even friends…and if not, what’s stopping us? Featuring: Eoin Comerford – Principal, Outsize Consulting Danielle Todd – Founder, Make Food Not Waste Katie Cruickshank – VP Advertiser Solutions + Client Service, Outside Rory Thibault – Land Protection Specialist, Land Conservancy of West Michigan Haley Bennett — Principal, Fresh Coast Strategies
5 Nov 2025
You Know It When You See It
In this episode of Ramble & Mosey, we explore the intersection of land banks, vacant property revitalization, and urban conservation in Michigan. Featuring Janell O’Keefe, Associate Director for Technical Assistance at the Center for Community Progress, and Mike Kelly, Great Lakes Director for the Conservation Fund, our conversation discusses how land banks are repurposing vacant properties and how conservation organizations are bringing nature and recreation back into urban spaces. This episode highlights how partnerships and state-level support are helping transform neglected land into thriving community assets, showcasing what’s possible when conservation and community development work together. Featuring: Janell O’Keefe - Associate Director for Technical Assistance, Center for Community Progress Mike Kelly - Great Lakes Director, The Conservation Fund Episode Links: Urban Conservation and Community Fellowship Program (https://www.conservationfund.org/focus-areas/resilient-communities/urban-conservation/ucc-fellowship/) National Land Bank Map (https://communityprogress.org/resources/land-banks/national-land-bank-map/) 2026 Reclaiming Vacant Properties Conference (https://communityprogress.org/rvp26/) The Conservation Fund (https://www.conservationfund.org/our-impact/impact-map/michigan/) Center for Community Progress (https://communityprogress.org/)
9 Oct 2025
Protecting The Places We Love
In this episode of Ramble & Mosey, we’re joined by Megan Motil of Parallel Solutions for an inside look at the inner workings of Michigan’s land conservation community. From strategic planning to partnership building, Megan shares how organizations collaborate behind the scenes to protect land, water, and natural resources for the long haul. We discuss the challenges and opportunities facing conservation groups today, from funding and capacity to adapting to a changing climate, and explore how thoughtful systems and relationships are shaping the future of conservation. Episode Links: Parallel Solutions (https://www.parallelmi.com/)
5 Sept 2025
How Trails Transform Places and People
In this episode of Ramble & Mosey, we sit down with Stacy Bare of Friends of Grand Rapids Parks, Julie Clark of TART Trails, and Gary Vernon of Oz Trails Bike Park to explore how trails shape both people and places. From Northwest Arkansas to Michigan, they share stories of community collaboration, the balancing act of recreation and conservation, and the lessons learned from building trails that honor the landscape. We explore how public support, thoughtful design, and long-term stewardship can create trail systems that not only invite adventure but also strengthen our connection to the places we love. Episode Links OZ Trails Bike Park (https://www.oztrails.com/oz-trails-bike-park/) TART Trails (https://traversetrails.org/) Friends of Grand Rapids Parks (https://friendsofgrparks.org/)
27 Aug 2025
Outdoor Innovation In The U.P.
In this episode of Ramble & Mosey, we welcome Phil Britton of Fresh Systems LLC and Vaughn Rodriguez of Innovate Marquette to dig into how outdoor recreation and conservation come together in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. We unpack the story of the Orion Project (Outdoor Recreation Innovation Action Network) and its role in growing the region’s outdoor economy. Phil and Vaughn share how they’re tackling challenges like remote geography and climate change while also seizing opportunities for sustainable growth. Along the way, we explore how community engagement, regional innovation, and conservation can thrive alongside increased tourism. Listen here, or on your favorite podcast platform. Episode Links: Fresh Systems LLC (https://www.freshsystemsllc.com/) Innovate Marquette (https://innovatemarquette.org/) ORIAN Project (https://innovatemarquette.org/orian/) U.P. Outdoor Summit (https://www.upoutdoor.org/) Michigan Outdoor Summit (https://michiganoutdoor.org/) Growth Strategy for the Central UP - TIP Strategies (https://www.upoutdoor.org/_files/ugd/0934b1_81bb60de19ba4d21b5429b45ab98529d.pdf) Electrified Trails in Central UP - UPland (https://www.upoutdoor.org/_files/ugd/0934b1_429e6d0f3cc049ad8759509d7782b04d.pdf)
25 Jun 2025
Stewards of the Land
In this episode of Ramble & Mosey, we're joined by MaryKay O’Donnell from the Land Trust Alliance and special guest Megan Motil from Parallel Solutions to unpack the role land conservancies play in conservation across Michigan. We trace the history of land conservancies, explore how they differ from other conservation organizations, and highlight innovative programs that protect land and water for future generations. The conversation touches on everything from successful community-centered projects to evolving funding models and the challenges of navigating shifting political landscapes. This episode offers a look at the evolving identity of land conservancies and their partnerships that work together to protect the places we all love. Episode Links Land Trust Alliance (https://landtrustalliance.org/) Parallel Solutions (https://www.parallelmi.com/) Open to All: A Disability Inclusion Guide for Land Trusts (https://landtrustalliance.org/resources/learn/explore/open-to-all-a-disability-inclusion-guide-for-land-trusts)
29 Apr 2025
Meeting People Where They're At
In this episode of Ramble and Mosey, we sit down with guests Qing Tiffany and Dan Cooke to explore how outdoor spaces in the Detroit region connect across generations. Qing shares her journey from a pre-med path to conservation work with Six Rivers Land Conservancy, and her current focus on reducing food waste through the nonprofit Make Food Not Waste. Dan, a practicing attorney and founder of Expedition Detroit, champions outdoor recreation and conservation, viewing Detroit’s natural spaces as an often-overlooked gem. Together, we discuss the history of the region, the barriers minority communities face in accessing the outdoors, available resources, and why authentic communication is key to making meaningful change. Episode Links https://www.expeditiondetroit.com/ (https://www.expeditiondetroit.com/) https://makefoodnotwaste.org/ (https://makefoodnotwaste.org/) https://www.sixriversrlc.org/ (https://www.sixriversrlc.org/)
28 Mar 2025
Creating Safe and Brave Spaces for Youth
In this episode, we explore the healing power of nature in supporting youth mental health and resilience with Garrett Dempsey and Amanda Westra. Garrett shares how Detroit Outdoors creates inclusive opportunities for young people, especially in communities of color, through a gear library, leadership training, and partnerships. Amanda highlights how the Chill Foundation uses of boardsports and outdoor activities to help youth heal from developmental and ancestral trauma. Together, they reveal how nature can break barriers, foster bravery, and transform lives. Featuring Garret Dempsey, Executive Director, Detroit Outdoors Amanda Westra - Senior Program Manager, Chill Foundation Episode Links Detroit Outdoors (https://www.detroitoutdoors.org/) Chill Foundation (https://www.chill.org/) @outdoorsdetroit @chillfoundation
28 Mar 2025
Redefining Detroit's Green Narrative
In this episode, we welcome Ian Solomon, a multifaceted individual working passionately in Detroit's green spaces. Ian discusses his varied roles, including his work with the Detroit Parks Coalition, his artistic pursuits, and his community organization, Amplify Outside. He emphasizes the importance of bridging Detroiters with Michigan's natural spaces while addressing environmental justice. Ian also shares insights from his artist residencies and his new coalition, Black Brown and Green, which fosters community among black and brown individuals interested in environmental advocacy. The discussion highlights Detroit's unique urban parks, the resilience of its community, and the collaborative efforts to dismantle the barriers that separate city and suburb. Featuring Ian Solomon - Communications & Engagement Manager, Detroit Parks Coalition, Founder, Amplify Outside Episode Links Detroit Parks Coalition (https://www.detroitparkscoalition.com/) @amplifyoutside Black to the Land Coalition (https://www.blacktothelandcoalition.com/)
14 Mar 2025
In The Business of Trail Goers & Communities
In this episode, Anne Fleming from Little Traverse Conservancy, Cece Kirkwood, and Pitt Grewe from AllTrails join us to discuss the importance of trails for community engagement and conservation in Michigan. We explore the tools AllTrails offers to enhance outdoor experiences, including discoverability, planning, and on-trail navigation. Little Traverse Conservancy, with a rich history and a focus on environmental education, uses trails to foster community engagement and accessibility. The conversation highlights the Public Lands Program by AllTrails that helps land managers keep trail information accurate and up-to-date, aiding in user preparedness and safety. We also discuss strategies for introducing new users to outdoor activities, emphasizing land stewardship and accessibility. The episode shares insights into Little Traverse Conservancy’s initiatives for universal access and its collaborations with local businesses and communities. Links & Resources AllTrails (www.alltrails.com) AllTrails Public Lands Program (https://publiclands.alltrails.com/) Little Traverse Conservancy (https://landtrust.org/)
7 Feb 2025
Growth & Green Spaces in Muskegon
In this episode, our guests, Pete DeBoer, Director of Donor Relations at the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, and Bob Lukens, Director of Community Development for Muskegon County, discuss the balance between economic growth and environmental stewardship. From restoring natural spaces and expanding trails to preserving Muskegon’s ecological heritage amid shifting demographics and development pressures, they break down the partnerships and initiatives driving sustainable change.
17 Jan 2025
The Get Stuff Done Duo
In this episode, we're joined by Dan Lord, Chief of the Financial Operations Division, and Clay, Grants Manager for Michigan's Department of Natural Resources. We dive into the intricacies of financial operations, grants management, and their transformative impacts on Michigan's communities. Learn about the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, the profound partnerships driving state projects, and the dedicated teams ensuring sustainable recreational access. Hear personal stories, professional insights, and future visions for enhancing outdoor experiences in Michigan.
1 Nov 2024
Inspiring Leadership In Uncertain Times
This episode features a live, unedited conversation between Jeannette Stawski, Author of The Outdoor Leader and Executive Director of the Association of Outdoor Recreation and Education, and Dan Wanschura, Host and Executive Producer of Points North Podcast at the Michigan Outdoor Summit. Jeannette shares her journey of becoming a whitewater rafting guide, the transformative power of outdoor leadership, and the importance of embracing failure and responsibility. Together, they discuss the importance of leadership in everyday life, resilience in the face of challenges, and how outdoor experiences can shape personal and professional growth.
23 Jul 2024
Branching Out in the City
We connect with Zachary Branigan, the Executive Director of the Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy. Zachary discusses the work the conservancy is doing, including taking on urban canopy and tree restoration projects to address tree equity issues in the communities they serve. He also talks about the journey of leading the conservancy and expanding its focus beyond traditional land protection efforts.
23 Jul 2024
From the Mountains to the Mitten
In this episode, we sit down with Stacy Bare, Executive Director of the Friends of Grand Rapids Parks, and Luis Benitez, Chief Impact Officer for the Trust for Public Land. They discuss their personal connections to Michigan, the importance of outdoor recreation and conservation, and the work their organizations are doing to support and improve parks and green spaces in local communities.
23 Jul 2024
Advocates for Detroit Parks
In this episode, we explore the evolution of the Detroit Parks Coalition with its Executive Director and Board President. From its inception to its current impact, learn about the Coalition's mission to transform Detroit's green spaces. Our guests discuss the organization’s membership, highlighting the collaborative efforts that drive their initiatives. We'll delve into the Coalition's work, the challenges they face, and the successes they've achieved in revitalizing urban parks. Joining Us: Sigal Hemy - Executive Director, Detroit Parks Coalition Alex Allen III - Board President, Detroit Parks Coalition and President/CEO, Chandler Park Conservancy
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
- YouTube views
- 2,449
- Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
- Apple Podcasts (US)
- 5.0 / 5
- 1 ratings
- Spotify
- 5.0 / 5
- 3 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 40 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
- Quality
- 41
- Social presence
- 0
- YouTube
- 68
- Engagement
- 32
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