Advertise on podcast: Cleveland Metroparks Tales & Trails Podcast

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.

Pat Jones has been a passionate advocate for the golf industry for 30 years and a business media executive for most of his adult life. Hear from Pat on this golf-centric episode where we swing into the growing game of golf, industry trends, tips from the pros & more.

A shopping center, a golf course and a landfill were some of the proposed or former uses for the scenic natural landscapes and waterways that make up West Creek Reservation. Hear from Derek Schafer, Executive Director of West Creek Conservancy, on how Cleveland Metroparks 16th park reservation came to be and where it's headed.

First established in 1917, Cleveland Metroparks has been a pioneer in the parks and recreation field since its inception. Hear from lead park historian Judy MacKeigan on park founder William Stinchcomb, turbulent and exuberant times for the Park District over the past century and unique finds, anecdotes and artifacts she's uncovered over the past 15 years.  

Katie Spotz is an endurance athlete, charitable ambassador, author, world-record holder and a native of Northeast Ohio. When she's not out competing in Ironman triathlons, cycling across the country or rowing across the Atlantic Ocean, she's probably training in Cleveland Metroparks. Hear how Katie is testing her limits in the Emerald Necklace and abroad to raise awareness for safe drinking water projects around the world.  

Emmy Award winning Fox 8 reporter Kenny Crumpton has been a staple on Cleveland television for over 25 years – and an avid outdoor enthusiast for even longer. When he's not on television, he can be found exploring Cleveland Metroparks through biking, golfing, rock climbing & more. Hear from Kenny Crumpton and CEO Brian Zimmerman on his eccentric experiences in Cleveland, his adventures in the parks and what drives his long-term success while learning a tip or two about getting the most out of the Emerald Necklace.  

For over 15 years, brewmaster and co-founder of Fat Head's Brewery, Matt Cole, has been brewing award-winning beers that helped establish Cleveland as a craft beer city. Today Fat Head's is recognized as among the best brewers of contemporary American-style IPAs and traditional German beers. But beyond a commitment to exceptional craft beers, is a commitment to community philanthropy – led by Matt Cole. Hear more about the long partnership between Fat Heads and Cleveland Metroparks and why Cole feels crafting products with purpose is an important component to the brand's success.