Advertise on podcast: Cleveland Metroparks Tales & Trails Podcast

In this episode of Tales & Trails presented by KeyBank Cleveland Metroparks CEO Brian Zimmerman sits down with Ohio CAT President Ken Taylor to explore the power of legacy, leadership, community investment and partnership behind the restoration of the historic Garfield Park.

Cleveland Metroparks serves as more than a place to exercise: it connects people, communities, and nature across Northeast Ohio. Go behind-the-scenes with Chief Operating Officer Joe Roszak as he explores how culture, innovation, partnerships and vision come together on a daily basis to drive Cleveland Metroparks forward.

Cleveland Metroparks is underway on some of the most transformative projects in its history. In this episode of Tales & Trails, Chief Planning and Design Officer Sean McDermott shares an inside look at projects that are reconnecting communities to nature, restoring historic landscapes, expanding access to Lake Erie and enhancing our Zoo.

In this episode of Tales & Trails, Cleveland Metroparks CEO Brian Zimmerman goes behind-the-scenes with some of the partners behind the Patrick S. Parker Community Sailing Center to explore how a bold public-private collaboration is transforming access to Lake Erie. Hear how leaders helped to break down barriers to create a vibrant new lakefront destination now open on Cleveland's lakefront.

Explore the extraordinary impact of nearly 7,000 annual volunteers across Cleveland Metroparks and the Zoo. From Trail and Zoo Ambassadors to watershed protection, hear inspiring stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and how a culture of service continues to shape both the visitor experience and the future of Cleveland Metroparks in the latest episode of Tales & Trails.

Cleveland Metroparks offers some of the best public golf in the country. Hit the links with host Brian Zimmerman, Director of Golf Dave Donner and Senior Manager of Golf Clubhouse Operations Geoff Koller and hear the insider scoop on our nine courses and what's next for golf in the Emerald Necklace.

In this episode of Tales & Trails, Cleveland Metroparks CEO sits down with Jenn Grieser, Director of Natural Resources, to explore how her team conserves more than 25,000 acres across Northeast Ohio. From protecting forests and wetlands to pioneering innovations like floating wetlands and nature-based shoreline restoration, the Natural Resources Division works daily to ensure clean air, clean water and thriving wildlife.

Join Cleveland Metroparks CEO Brian Zimmerman for a conversation with Chief of Police Kelly Stillman on the mission, history, and future of the Metroparks Police Department. With more than 100 state-certified officers safeguarding 25,000 acres and 43 million annual visitors, Chief Stillman shares insights into the department's work, challenges, and achievements. From major investigations to everyday safety, discover how his team keeps Cleveland's Emerald Necklace secure.

In this episode of Cleveland Metroparks Tales & Trails, CEO Brian Zimmerman sits down with longtime commissioner David Whitehead, who served from 1994 to 2011—one of the longest tenures in Cleveland Metroparks history. Together, they reflect on nearly two decades of transformative growth, including landmark park expansions, groundbreaking zoo habitats, and the enduring importance of conservation leadership.

Education and recreation programs across Cleveland Metroparks serve over a half million people each year. Hear from Mary Rouse, the Director of Outdoor Experiences, on how education connects people of all ages to nature as we take a deep dive into education philosophy, nature preschools, top adventures for families and more.

In this episode of Tales & Trails presented by KeyBank, Cleveland Metroparks CEO Brian Zimmerman connects with Dr. Christine Alexander-Rager, President and CEO of MetroHealth, on how the Park District and public hospital system are partnering for a healthier region.

The Cleveland Zoological Society has been a proud nonprofit partner of Cleveland Metroparks Zoo for nearly 70 years. Hear from Sarah Crupi, Chief Executive Officer of the Zoo Society, and Board Chair Christine Myeroff on recent improvements to the Zoo, why philanthropic and community support is so critical, and big plans ahead for the Zoo's 150th anniversary.

In this episode of Cleveland Metroparks Tales & Trails podcast, Rock Entertainment Group CEO Nic Barlage joins us to explore how the Cleveland Cavaliers' recent partnership with Cleveland Metroparks celebrates the city's spirit on and off the court. From City Edition jerseys that honor the Emerald Necklace to community initiatives that plant trees and foster civic pride, Nic shares how sports, nature, innovation and collaboration strengthen our region.

Yvette Ittu has been a regional leader for over 40 years at the intersection of finance, planning and government. On this episode of Tales & Trails, you can hear her story on the power of parks, people and public investment and how volunteerism and civic leadership is playing a major role in shaping the economic revitalization of our region.

In this episode of Tales & Trails presented by KeyBank, Cleveland Metroparks CEO Brian Zimmerman sits down with Trina Evans, Chief of Staff and Director of Corporate Center at KeyBank, to celebrate Key's remarkable 200-year milestone. From bringing back the beloved ZooKeys to championing STEM education, Trina reveals how KeyBank partners with the community to create a lasting impact through legacy, innovation, vision and enduring values.