Cleveland Metroparks Tales & Trails Podcast

Cleveland Metroparks
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Join Cleveland Metroparks CEO Brian Zimmerman and special guests, including Northeast Ohio's most prominent community leaders. Each episode will go in-depth on topics ranging from the revitalization of Northeast Ohio and progress to elevate Cleveland as a waterfront community, to nature-based topics focused on wildlife and ecological resilience. Each month, we'll answer questions from our community on the topics sparking curiosity.

  1. MAR 2

    Legacy of the Land: Reflections with Former Park Commissioner David Whitehead

    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.

    39 min
  2. Growing Outside: How Cleveland Metroparks Inspires the Next Generation

    FEB 2

    Growing Outside: How Cleveland Metroparks Inspires the Next Generation

    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.

    45 min

  3. JAN 12

    Partnering for a Healthier Region with MetroHealth

    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.

    37 min
  4. Power of Community: How Donors Make the Difference at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

    12/01/2025

    Power of Community: How Donors Make the Difference at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

    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.

    40 min
  5. From the Hardwood to the Trail: Nic Barlage on Civic Pride and Regional Wins

    11/17/2025

    From the Hardwood to the Trail: Nic Barlage on Civic Pride and Regional Wins

    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.

    38 min
  6. Rooted in Community: How Civic Leadership is Elevating Northeast Ohio

    11/03/2025

    Rooted in Community: How Civic Leadership is Elevating Northeast Ohio

    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.

    41 min
  7. Key Connections: Reflections on Legacy, Leadership & Community 200 Years in the Making

    10/06/2025

    Key Connections: Reflections on Legacy, Leadership & Community 200 Years in the Making

    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.

    43 min
  8. Growing the Game: Why Public Golf Matters More Than Ever

    09/01/2025

    Growing the Game: Why Public Golf Matters More Than Ever

    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.

    54 min
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4.9
out of 5
29 Ratings

About

Join Cleveland Metroparks CEO Brian Zimmerman and special guests, including Northeast Ohio's most prominent community leaders. Each episode will go in-depth on topics ranging from the revitalization of Northeast Ohio and progress to elevate Cleveland as a waterfront community, to nature-based topics focused on wildlife and ecological resilience. Each month, we'll answer questions from our community on the topics sparking curiosity.

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