Join us on a journey to the Center for Mollusk Conservation in our re-released episode! Discover why mussels are nature's unsung heroes with Julianne Jacobs.

New episode alert! Dive into the beauty of Wade Bourne Nature Center with us. From bird watching to wildflowers, and innovative community programs—it’s all here! Tune in to learn how this center is making a big impact.

Bumblebees play a crucial role in our ecosystem, and you can too! Join us for a captivating episode with Avery Young, an endangered species conservation biologist, and learn about the Southeast Bumblebee Atlas.

This past February, Tennessee officially passed House Bill 1738, making April our very first Tennessee Native Plant Month! To celebrate, I’m challenging you to step outside the parks and turn your own backyard into a buzzing, blooming wildlife habitat. If you’re wondering where to start, you're in luck. We are pulling one of our favorite episodes out of the vault today to show you how. We’re revisiting our chat with native plant expert Ivan Chester, who gives us the ultimate guide to ditching the chemicals and planting the exact things our local hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees go crazy for….

Dive into our latest episode of Part-Time Parkers with experts from Defenders of Wildlife. Discover the remarkable habitats worth protecting. Listen now!

Take a hike with us at David Crockett State Park! Our latest episode of Part-Time Parkers explores the wonderful 'Tales to Trails' program, & how hiking with shelter dogs benefits everyone involved!

Ready to take your park adventures to the next level? Join us on Part-Time Parkers as we discuss mobility and flexibility exercises that prepare you for hiking adventures. Learn from the experts at Natchez Trace State Park in our latest episode!

Did you know eagles can have nests up to 2 tons? Discover more fascinating eagle facts and conservation success stories in our new episode with Shannon Brockway,  a naturalist with the Woodlands Nature Station with Bernie and Rebecca as they visit Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area.

In this episode of Part-Time Parkers, hosts Bernie and Rebecca explore Harmony Wildlife, a rehabilitation center for Tennessee's native wildlife. Join them as they chat with Education Director Kady Sullivan, who shares the origin and mission of Harmony Wildlife. Discover the challenges of wildlife rehab and learn the importance of making informed choices in your neighborhood to protect local wildlife.

Welcome to Part-Time Parkers! In this episode, we explore the parks of Burlington, Iowa, with Bernie and her hometown guests. Join us as we uncover the rich history and incredible diversity of Burlington's park system, featuring community development initiatives, conservation stories, and the many recreational activities available. Our guests, including Eric Tissin, Ryan Gorley, and Brad Selby, share their experiences and the importance of parks in bringing the community together. Discover hidden gems like Snake Alley, Perkins Park, and the RECplex, and learn about the challenges and triumphs faced by park staff in maintaining these beloved spaces. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this episode will inspire you to get outside and appreciate the natural beauty and community spirit found in Burlington's parks.

Join Part-Time Parkers as they visit Warner Park in Nashville, Tennessee. Naturalists Elise and Jessa share their experiences working with various conservation projects including the creation of pollinator gardens and the Monarch Larvae Monitoring Project. Learn about the importance of native plants, the impact of pollinators, and how community engagement and education play a crucial role in conservation efforts. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the significance of maintaining healthy ecosystems and fostering connections with nature.

In this episode of Part-Time Parkers, hosts Bernie and Rebecca visit the Dothan Area Botanical Gardens in Dothan, Alabama. They interview the executive director, William Holman, who shares the history, development, and unique features of the botanical gardens. From its origins as a soybean farm to becoming a beloved community space, the gardens host a variety of plants, walking trails, and special areas like the butterfly house. They discuss the importance of conservation and education, the numerous volunteer opportunities, and upcoming events that bring the community together. This episode provides an insightful look into the transformative power of nature and community involvement.

Join Part-time Parkers at Landmark Park in Dothan, Alabama, for an exciting episode of Part-Time Parkers. This special day celebrates Fall Farm Day, featuring activities like soap making and blacksmithing. Meet David Jay, the park's executive director, and Kristen Pierce, the marketing manager, as they share stories about the park's history, its unique attractions, and the importance of outdoor education. Learn how the park operates primarily through volunteers and community support, and discover the joys of outdoor activities that connect generations. Perfect for families looking to explore the great outdoors!

Join Bernie and Rebecca on Part-Time Parkers as they talk with Julianne Jacobs from the Center for Mollusk Conservation. Explore the hidden world of freshwater mussels—their vital role in cleaning waterways, the innovative conservation techniques used to protect them, and their connections to host fish and Hellbender salamanders. A fascinating look at how these overlooked creatures keep aquatic ecosystems thriving.

In this episode of Part-Time Parkers, Bernie and Rebecca chat with Ivan Chester of Habitat Landscapes, keynote speaker at Warner Park’s Hummingbird Celebration. Ivan shares his journey from self-taught gardener to native plant landscaper and explains why native plants are vital for hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. Learn how to create wildlife-friendly yards, use non-toxic pest control, and choose plants that thrive in your region. A must-listen for anyone hoping to make their yard more eco-friendly and supportive of local wildlife.

Join Part-time Parkers as they visit Carolina Beach State Park with superintendent Crystal Lloyd. Discover the fascinating world of carnivorous plants like the Venus Fly Trap, explore the park’s unique habitats, and learn how conservation efforts like prescribed burns protect these ecosystems. Crystal also shares her path to becoming a park ranger and the many roles involved in preserving North Carolina’s natural treasures.

Join Part-Time Parkers' as they explore Dunbar Cave State Park, with special guest Ranger Adam. Discover the rich history, intriguing mysteries, and significant conservation efforts of this beautiful 144-acre park in Clarksville, Tennessee. Learn about the park's indigenous heritage, its transformation from a popular resort to a state park, and the captivating cave art that dates back 10,000 years. Don't miss out on the fascinating stories, lost houses, and forgotten graves revealed in this episode.

Join Bernie and Rebecca at Fort Macon State Park in Atlantic Beach, North Carolina, where they chat with Ranger Benjamin Fleming. Learn about the park’s rich history as North Carolina’s oldest functioning state park and its vital sea turtle conservation efforts. From historic forts to coastal wildlife, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the natural and cultural treasures of Fort Macon.

Dive into the fascinating history and sustainable practices at Port Royal State Historic Park with Ranger Danny on Part-Time Parkers.

Part-Time Parkers explore the fascinating Sadie Ford Heritage Farm, a satellite site of Cedars of Lebanon State Park. Meet Ranger Shauna, who shares the rich history of the farm and its association with the park. Discover the farm's acquisition story, various conservation efforts, and educational programming. Enjoy insights from Bill Maddox, who shares his experiences with blacksmithing and hands-on activities for visitors. Learn about future workshops, blacksmithing classes, and the unique ecosystem of the park. This episode is packed with historical tidbits, interactive experiences, and inspiring stories that highlight the importance of conservation and education at the state park.