Let's Talk Outside
A Podcast Presented by
Let's Talk Outside is your window to the world of environmental conservation and the outdoors in the San Francisco area.
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Episodes
Season 1
EPISODE 1
Jen Kuszmar
EPISODE 1
Jen Kuszmar
Join us for an enriching chat with Jen Kuszmar, a land conservation professional, as we explore the concept of urban open space and its profound impact on the community. From parks and greenways to natural playgrounds and river walks, Jen guides us through the world of land conservation projects. Listen in as we explore the importance of public open spaces in urban settings and how these projects provide Jen with an opportunity to serve her community.
Keywords
Urban Open Space, Land Conservation, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Green Sanctuaries, Greenways, Parks, Natural Playgrounds, River Walks, Environmental Justice, Racial Justice, Climate Change, Afro-Indigenous Farming, Grassroots Conservation, Unity, Resilience, Grant Program Conservation, Mental Health, Physical Healthing
EPISODE 2
Tom Robinson
EPISODE 2
Tom Robinson
Curious to learn about the dance between our environment's health and the choices we make? Explore the intersection of geography, conservation, and technology with our guest, Tom Robinson, a conservation professional who champions the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in tackling environmental challenges. Listen in as Tom shares his insights on prioritizing land conservation efforts and the significance of scientifically-informed decision-making in the fight against climate change. His experience spans collaborating with diverse organizations, from local open space districts to federal agencies, and his projects range from Coho salmon recovery to sea-level rise planning. Tom's passion for the outdoors and his dedication to data-driven solutions for a sustainable future are sure to captivate and inspire.
Keywords
Conservation, Geographic Information Systems, GIS, Environmental Stewardship, Coho Salmon, Sea-level Rise, Climate Change, Data-driven Approaches, Preserving Landscapes, Climate Change Leadership, Hope, Outdoor Spaces, Media, Environmental Protection, Sustainability, Human Community Security, Habitat Protection, Local Leadership, Outdoor Experiences, National Seashore, Kayaking, Camping, 'Into the Wild', 'Let's Talk Outside', Podcast, Passion, Great Outdoors
EPISODE 3
Irma Cuevas
EPISODE 3
Irma Cuevas
Join the chorus for change with Irma Cuevas, a fierce champion for equity in the outdoors. Listen in as she shares her inspiring story of growing up as the daughter of Mexican immigrants in Mendocino County, and how this experience forged her deep connection to nature. With a passionate voice, she advocates for inclusive outdoor spaces that embrace cultural diversity, and reveals her efforts to ensure the outdoors is a welcoming place for all. Discover how Irma's unique perspective is shaping the future of environmental stewardship and the way we all experience the natural world.
Keywords
Nature, Inclusivity, Equity, Outdoor Spaces, Diversity, Indigenous Knowledge, Environmental Stewardship, Community Engagement, Youth Programs, Conservation, Access, Cultural Relevance, Parks, Latinx, BIPOC, Sonoma County, Mendocino County, Inclusion, Environmental Education, Recreation
EPISODE 4
John Dell'Osso
EPISODE 4
John Dell'Osso
Embark on a journey through the windswept landscapes of Point Reyes National Seashore with John Dell'Osso, a seasoned expert whose tenure with the National Park Service spans over three decades. Our conversation walks through John's remarkable transition from a seasonal ranger to the Chief of Interpretation and Resource Education, as he paints a vivid picture of his devotion to nature and the essence of public service. His personal anecdotes reflect a profound connection to the environment and highlight the unique challenges and triumphs encountered while nurturing and protecting the precious landscapes of Sonoma County.
Keywords
Point Reyes National Seashore, John Del’Osso, National Park Service, Public Lands, Wildlife, Sonoma County coast, Conservation Management, Human Interaction, Non-Native Species, Environmental Stewardship, Human Experiences, David Sibley, Birding, Novices, Environmental Stewardship, Nature, Community, Public Service, Passion, Natural Resource Preservation, Hope, Animal Rescue, Environmental Groups, Rescue Pets, David Allen Sibley, Bird Behaviors, Outdoor Favorites, The Big Year, Avian Behavior, Interviews
EPISODE 5
Che Casul
EPISODE 5
Che Casul
Discover the transformative power of nature as we chat with Che Casul—an extraordinary individual who marries the worlds of social services, environmental conservation, and agriculture. Che's journey, which originated on a family ranch in Sonoma County, has led him to spearhead initiatives that uplift at-risk youth. His stories illuminate how hands-on conservation efforts can offer hope and perspective to those who need it most. Che's optimism, driven by his young son and the positive shifts in community attitudes towards sustainability, is contagious. This is one you don’t want to miss.
Keywords
Conservation, At-Risk Youth, Environment, Community Work, Sonoma County, Circuit Rider, Land Management, Wildfire Prevention, Sustainable Practices, Empowerment, Ocean Ecosystem, Ecological Preservation, Restoration Projects, Hope, Stewardship, Biodiversity, Volunteer Work, Fire Prevention, Resilience, Sustainable Power Solutions
EPISODE 6
Brittany Jensen + Valerie Quinto
EPISODE 6
Brittany Jensen + Valerie Quinto
Learn about the secrets of harmonizing agriculture with environmental conservation as we sit down with Brittany Jensen and Valerie Quinto, leaders of their respective Resource Conservation Districts in Northern California. Journey with us through the sustainable initiatives that are shaping the future of our lands, from salmon habitat restoration to cutting-edge soil conservation practices. Learn how these RCDs are not just preserving our environment but enhancing agricultural productivity through groundbreaking public-private partnerships, setting a precedent for ecological stewardship that invites the community to play a pivotal role. Since this podcast was recorded, Valerie has moved on from her position at the Sonoma RCD. She remains involved with conservation in Sonoma County and beyond, and will be a lifelong fan of RCDs.
Keywords
Resource Conservation Districts, RCDs, Agriculture, Environmental Conservation, Salmon Habitat Restoration, Soil Conservation Practices, Public-Private Partnerships, Sustainable Initiatives, Northern California, Sonoma County, Environmental Stewardship, Community Involvement, AmeriCorps, Outdoor Engagement, Environmental Education, Carbon Storage, Soil Quality Improvement, Natural Resource Concerns, Environmental Decision-Making, Social Media, North Coast Soil Hub
EPISODE 7
Deb St Cyr
EPISODE 7
Deb St Cyr
Join us at the Oat Hill Mine Trail with Deb St Cyr, an ardent trail advocate, whose personal journey of healing and growth has been deeply intertwined with the great outdoors. Our conversation reveals how the pandemic rekindled a widespread passion for nature, as seen through the vibrant tapestry of runners, hikers, equestrians, and mountain bikers sharing the paths. Deb's transition from bookkeeping to trail advocacy, spurred by the Valley Fire's impact on her local trails, showcases the profound role these spaces play in community healing and resilience.
Keywords
Trails, Trail Advocacy, Outdoor Access, Community Recovery, Pandemic, Inclusivity, Environmental Stewardship, Conservation, Recreation, Unity, Trail Development, Outdoor Equipment, Changing Perceptions, Mountain Bike Alliance, Oat Hill Mine Trail, Valley Fire, Boggs Mountain, Multi-use Trails, Mental and Physical Well-being, Diversity, Youth Programs, Bay Area Ridge Trail, Friends of Boggs Mountain, Disabilities, Mountain Biking, Camera, Trail Maintenance, Grant Applications, Inclusive Outdoor Spaces
EPISODE 8
Kate Berry
EPISODE 8
Kate Berry
Kate Berry of Save the Redwoods League brings you behind the curtain and shares how she builds a nurturing community that treasures and supports our planet’s ancient redwood forests. This lighthearted conversation weaves through the narrative of land conservation fundraising, where Kate’s mastery of direct mail and digital marketing meets personal anecdotes and the art and science of direct marketing. This episode is a celebration of the connection donors forge with our natural world and is a reminder of our shared commitment towards safeguarding the tranquility of natural places like Hendy Woods State Park and beyond.
Keywords
Land Conservation, Fundraising, Nonprofit, Nature, Redwoods, Save the Redwoods League, Environmental Stewardship, Digital Strategies, Direct Mail, Philanthropy, Data Analysis, Creative Strategy, Pandemic, Donations, Strategic Communication, Climate Change, Parks, Database Migration, Wildfire Devastation, Donor Retention, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Organizational Growth, Social Justice, Outdoor Activities
EPISODE 9
Doug McConnell
EPISODE 9
Doug McConnell
Doug McConnell, the face of conservation in Northern California and the spirited host of "Open Road," recounts his evolution from a youngster enamored by California's natural grandeur to a venerated environmental communicator. Our discussion covers Doug's formative years in the Californian wilderness to his pioneering role in broadcast media. His heartfelt anecdotes, infused with humor and a sense of nostalgia, take us on a journey through his career and his unwavering commitment to safeguarding our planet's precious ecosystems. Since this podcast was recorded Doug’s TV series has been retitled to, ‘OpenRoad with Doug McConnell and Friends’ and features two of Doug’s longtime colleagues. It’s currently in its 10th season.
Keywords
Conservation, Environmental Storytelling, Northern California, Open Spaces, Media, Youth Engagement, Public Lands, Passion, Hope, Television, Broadcasting, Teamwork, Endangered Species, Ecological Heritage, Career Advice, Outdoor Activities, Hiking, Nature, NBC Bay Area
About the Podcast
Let's Talk Outside is your window to the world of environmental conservation and the outdoors in the San Francisco area.
True to its name, each episode takes place outdoors, in a local park or public space. Alex and Amy, both seasoned outdoor conservation professionals, explore topics with their guests such as natural resource management, sustainable agriculture, fundraising for conservation, private landowner challenges, and more. Join us for inspiring conversations with professionals working towards a more sustainable world.
- Natural Resource Management
- Sustainable Agriculture
- Fundraising for Conservation
- Private Landowner Challenges
Meet the Hosts
Amy Ricard
Community Resources MGR / AG + OPEN SPACE SONOMA COUNTY
Amy has over 15 years of experience working in non-profits and public agencies in the fields of communications, marketing, community engagement, and policy. When she’s not at work or podcasting, you can find her exploring the outdoors, watching soccer, doing puzzles, traveling with her family, or enjoying a good meal with friends.
Alex Roa
Founder + CEO /
Topo Collective
Topo Collective
Alex brings almost a decade of work in the public sector, most with conservation and open space agencies. You can find Alex just about any place trails exist. Alex is a volunteer firefighter, and values being connected to his community. He and his wife travel as often as possible, especially to places with unique landscapes & tasty food.
Get in Touch
Have a question about the podcast? Want to be interviewed on the podcast? Be in touch with us!
hello@topocollective.com
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