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

Parallel Solutions

Open to All: A Disability Inclusion Guide for Land Trusts

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://makefoodnotwaste.org/

https://www.sixriversrlc.org/

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

Chill Foundation

@outdoorsdetroit

@chillfoundation

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

@amplifyoutside

Black to the Land Coalition

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

AllTrails Public Lands Program

Little Traverse Conservancy

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.

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.

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.