Think Outside with the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation

Marci Mowery
  • 5.0 (6)
  • NATURE
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Think Outside is your guide to outdoor opportunities, nature exploration, and wellness. Discover expert tips, inspiring stories, and new ways to connect with the great outdoors for a healthier, happier life. More information: https://thinkoutsidepodcast.com/

  1. JAN 26

    A Life in the Park: Leonard Harrison State Park Stories with Greg Sassaman and Tim Morey

    “The more you get to use state parks and see what they have to offer, the more you’re going to want to make sure they continue in perpetuity.” When Greg Sassaman arrived at Leonard Harrison State Park in 1978, he found a rundown facility with a chain-link fence and a trail barely worthy of the name. What followed was a decades-long labor of love that transformed Pennsylvania's Grand Canyon into the destination it is today! The Turkey Path rehabilitation stands as Greg's crowning achievement. Without modern battery-powered tools or motorized wheelbarrows, his crew relied on manpower and, remarkably, horsepower. Working with naturalist Greg Hornsby, they convinced Harrisburg to hire a draft horse to haul timbers, concrete, and stone down the treacherous canyon trail using a wooden stone boat! The innovation worked. Youth Conservation Corps and Pennsylvania Conservation Corps teams built platforms and steps that have endured over 40 years, reducing injuries while protecting the natural landscape from erosion caused by shortcuts. Greg championed interpretation, helping visitors understand what they were seeing, and fought to preserve the area's wild character. He believes that Pennsylvania offers far more than its cities. The remote sections, the wild places, deserve protection and advocacy. Once state parks, always state parks. Key Topics: Condition of Park in 1978 (01:18)Turkey Path Trail Development (02:57)Changes in Park Interpretation (07:26)Bald Eagles Return to the Area (13:37)Train Fires in the Canyon (14:58)Camping Evolution at Colton Point (19:18)Bear and Porcupine Encounters (22:08)Advocacy for PA's Wild Spaces (24:20) Resources: Leonard Harrison State ParkColton Point State ParkPine Creek Rail TrailTurkey Path 🎧 Listen to the Think Outside Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or your favorite app while on the go! New episodes drop bi-weekly on Mondays, and you may occasionally find a bonus episode, as well! The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation inspires...

    26 min

  2. JAN 12

    The Outdoors, Designed for Everyone with Pam Metzger

    “It's kind of amazing to think that almost any challenge that you have, there's some brilliant, intelligent person out there doing the research to come up with a solution to it.” Our host, Marci Mowery, sits down with Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation Membership Coordinator Pam Metzger. When Pam’s husband Bill was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, staying active became his lifeline. After cycling thousands of miles on traditional bikes, he transitioned to a three-wheel hand cycle. That adaptive equipment opened new possibilities but also revealed gaps in accessibility. The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation is working to close those gaps through innovations like accessible kayak launches, colorblind-correcting viewers, and more. Beyond mere accommodations, they're examples of universal design that benefit everyone, from parents pushing strollers to hikers using trekking poles for knee support. Pam recalls the moment Bill used an accessible kayak launch at Laurel Hill State Park. Just like that, he’d rediscovered an activity he thought was lost forever! "He still talks about it," she shares, describing how the launch works seamlessly for wheelchair users and non-wheelchair-using visitors alike. True inclusion requires partnerships. The Foundation collaborates with AARP, friends groups, occupational therapists, and local organizations to identify needs and test solutions. Their latest initiative equips libraries across Pennsylvania with borrowable recreation equipment. Effectively, they’re removing financial barriers alongside physical ones! Key Topics: Bill's Adaptive Recreation Journey (02:12)Accessible Kayak Launch Experience (06:45)Colorblind Viewers Bring Colors to Life (09:57)Library Equipment Lending Program (11:14)Universal Design Benefits Everyone (18:07) Resources: PPFF Outdoors for EveryoneFriends of Laurel Hill State ParkFriends of Nockamixon State Park 🎧 Listen to the Think Outside Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or your favorite app while on the go! New episodes drop bi-weekly on Mondays, and you may occasionally find a bonus episode, as well! The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation inspires stewardship of YOUR state parks and forests through volunteerism, education, recreation, and philanthropy. Learn more, find events, download outdoor resources, and get involved! 👉 Sign up for our...

    24 min

  3. 12/15/2025

    Keeping Older Adults Active, Engaged, and Connected Outside with Nicole Faraguna

    “Being outdoors is a part of our story, part of our essence. And so we don't want to abandon or forget about those who are growing older, and they just need a little help and support in connecting them to these benefits.” Our host, Marci Mowery, welcomes Nicole Faraguna, Director of the Office of Planning and Policy at the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, to discuss both the personal and societal impacts of outdoor engagement for seniors. Nicole draws from her own experience visiting her father-in-law in a nursing home, observing how time spent outdoors visibly improved his mood and well-being. These stories set the stage for a broader conversation on how Pennsylvania, one of the oldest states in the nation by population, is tackling the opportunity to help its seniors age with dignity, independence, connection, and joy. The conversation explores the “Aging Our Way in PA” plan and the development of the "Outdoors as We Age: Pennsylvania’s Nature Guide" toolkit. The toolkit was designed to help seniors, especially those in long-term care or with limited mobility, reconnect with nature through accessible programs, adaptive equipment, and community partnerships. Nicole and Marci discuss the various barriers seniors face—ranging from transportation and mobility challenges to social isolation—and highlight how libraries, volunteers, and local organizations can play a key role in overcoming these obstacles. This episode is a call to action for communities, organizations, and individuals to collaborate in supporting healthy aging through nature. Even small efforts, like helping a neighbor enjoy a nearby park, can make a significant difference in someone’s quality of life. Key Topics: Nicole Faraguna’s Personal Inspiration and Advocacy (02:53)Challenges for Older Adults Accessing Nature and Role of Community (05:32)Overview and Purpose of the “Aging Our Way in PA” Plan and Toolkit (06:35)Benefits of Outdoor Spaces and Healthy Aging (11:57)Defining Accessibility vs. Adaptability (14:49)Overcoming Barriers: Transportation, Volunteers, Bringing Nature Indoors (17:53)Successful Programs and Examples (Gardening, Excursions, Library Initiatives) (22:15)Color-Correcting Viewfinders and Inclusive Tools (26:21)Safety and Environmental Equity for Older Adults (32:12)Planning Community Events: Tips and Recommendations (33:45) Resources: Connecting to the Outdoors as We Age (pdf)Aging Our Way, PAa...

    36 min

  4. 12/01/2025

    It's a Family Thing - Exploring Together with guests Polly Goettler and Cindy Whelan

    “For me, coming to the Pennsylvania State Parks has been a way to really disconnect from the stress of the world and the stress of our individual lives and just enjoy nature. And it has such a healing effect.” Our host, Marci Mowery, chats with Cindy and Polly, whose Pennsylvania State Parks journey began in 2018 at Gifford Pinchot, where a passport sparked a family tradition that would grow from four campers to over twenty participants. As self-described "box checkers," the sisters established personal rules, such as photographing every sign and genuinely experiencing each location through hiking, kayaking, or picnicking rather than merely collecting stamps. Beyond their adventures, the parks provided unexpected therapeutic benefits. What started as weight management through hiking evolved into profound spiritual and emotional healing, particularly during the pandemic's isolation, when parks like Lyman Run offered stress relief. Both sisters rave about how hiking creates connection, with partners, children, and siblings, in ways their fast-paced, social-media-driven lives rarely allow. Parks without cell service, like Black Moshannon and Cowans Gap, forced meaningful disconnection that initially felt difficult but ultimately proved liberating. If you’re a newcomer, start with your nearest park and taste what it offers. The passion will follow naturally, and rules are optional. Just getting outside matters most! Key Topics:Growing Family Tradition to 20+ Members (02:50)Mental Health Benefits Over Physical (06:29)Advice for Starting Your Journey (08:48)Pennsylvania Park Diversity Discovery (12:20)   Resources: Poe Paddy State ParkPoe Valley State ParkPreston's PearlCamping 🎧 Listen to the Think Outside Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or your favorite app while on the go! New episodes drop bi-weekly on Mondays, and you may occasionally find a bonus episode, as well! The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation inspires stewardship of YOUR state parks and forests through volunteerism, education, recreation, and philanthropy. Learn more, find events, download outdoor resources, and get involved! 👉 Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter 🎥 Watch outdoor tips and stories on our YouTube channel 📸 Follow the podcast on Instagram 🎶 Podcast music provided by Evan Mongeau 📱 Follow PPFF...

    15 min

  5. 11/17/2025

    An Off-Season Adventure: Exploring PA State Parks and Forests with Jessica Myers ( See Them All Passport Challenge )

    “Supporting local businesses not only enhances your experience, but also supports that community, and oftentimes those community businesses are very supportive of the park and forest.” Our host, Marci Mowery, chats with Jessica Myers, whose quest to visit all 124 Pennsylvania state parks and 20 forest districts began unexpectedly in 2017. After moving from DC and adopting a dog, she discovered the Parks Passport at Cowans Gap, which launched a six-year adventure that would become transformative for both her and her canine companion! Jessica strategically planned visits during off-season months, avoiding crowds that triggered her dog's anxiety following an attack by off-leash dogs. Her timing couldn’t have been better. Park staff had more availability for personalized recommendations, trails were peaceful, and winter activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing were freely accessible. Pennsylvania has a trove of hidden treasures beyond well-known destinations like Ricketts Glen. Tobyhanna's Lake Lupe hike became a favorite for Jess, while Laurel Hill and Elk State Parks claimed top spots for her pup’s exceptional swimming opportunities. Beyond hiking, Jess fell in love with what the community around her offered. General stores, ice cream shops, and local artisans, like a stained glass maker in the Laurel Highlands, made every visit so much richer. After completing the challenge in April 2025, Jess is raving most of all about Pennsylvania offering completely free access to world-class outdoor experiences that transformed both her mental health and her rescue dog's confidence!   Key Topics: Starting the Journey with a Rescue Dog (01:57)Benefits of Off-Season Park Visits (02:56)Connecting with Park Staff for Recommendations (03:55)Discovering Hidden Gems Like Tobyhanna (05:59)Supporting Local Communities Around Parks (13:01)Winter Activities and Seasonal Timing (14:35)   Resources: Pets In ParksTobyhanna State ParkPA Parks & Forests PassportDCNR Calendar of Events 🎧 Listen to the Think Outside Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or your favorite app while on the go! New episodes drop bi-weekly on Mondays, and you may occasionally find a bonus episode, as well! The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation inspires stewardship of YOUR state parks and forests through volunteerism, education, recreation, and philanthropy. Learn more, find events, download outdoor resources, and get involved! 👉 Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter 🎥 Watch outdoor tips and stories on our YouTube...

    18 min

  6. 11/03/2025

    The Space In Between: A Journey with Charles Hutler

    “Every park I go to is an adventure.” Charlie Hutler's journey began with a single visit to Promised Land State Park. Right there, at Pickerel Point’s campground, he caught the park bug! By 2021, via the See ‘Em All challenge, Charlie had visited all 124 state parks and 20 forest districts. He shares his treks on his YouTube channel, "PA Parks Man". Our host, Marci Mowery, sits down with Charlie to learn about the method to his madness. Rather than treating visits as isolated destinations, he planned them as loops, weaving parks into broader adventures that included historical sites like the Flight 93 Memorial and quirky attractions like Gravity Hills. Charlie speaks for many out-of-state visitors who are always amazed that visiting Pennsylvania's parks is free, with no entrance or day-use fees. It’s a democratic approach that enables families to redirect resources toward supporting local businesses, museums, and attractions along their routes. There’s also a huge element of advocacy in Charlie’s journey. His handwritten letters to legislators is a good old-fashioned yet effective step towards protecting these resources. As someone who witnessed both pouring rain and perfect weather at Cowans Gap, Charlie understands that every park visit is an adventure, no matter the conditions one might encounter! From casual visitor to content creator and advocate, Charlie shows how Pennsylvania's parks cultivate stewardship. His work with the Pennsylvania Parks and Forest Foundation, including appearing at legislative tours, should inspire enthusiasts to amplify their voices to ensure these spaces receive the necessary investment for future generations.   Key Topics: Discovering the See 'Em All Challenge (01:02)Pickerel Point's Beautiful Design (02:05)Creating the PA Parks Man YouTube Channel (03:49)Advocacy Through Letter Writing (06:06)Planning Visits as Adventure Loops (06:52)   Resources: ·     The Pa Parks Man (YouTube channel) ·     PA Route 6 (history) ·     Promised Land State Park 🎧 Listen to the Think Outside Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or your favorite app while on the go! New episodes drop bi-weekly on Mondays, and you may occasionally find a bonus episode, as well! The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation inspires stewardship of YOUR state parks and forests through volunteerism, education, recreation, and philanthropy. Learn more, find events, download outdoor resources, and get involved! 👉 Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter 🎥 Watch outdoor tips and stories on our YouTube channel 📸 Follow the podcast on...

    10 min

  7. 10/20/2025

    All of Them: A Journey Through Pennsylvania’s Parks and Forests with Joseph F. Brosky

    “It's amazing... when you get together with people at a campground or a park, there’s no barriers to participation. Everybody just enjoys being out and about.” Joe Brosky's retirement began with a discovery that would reshape his next five years: a Pennsylvania Parks and Forest Foundation passport he picked up at the Laurel Hill State Park's gift shop. Our host, Marci Mowery, chats with him in this episode of Think Outside. This chance encounter at the beginning of June 2018 launched Joe and his wife Donna on a quest to visit all 124 state parks and 20 forest districts. It’s a journey that reveals how Pennsylvania's public lands serve as vital connectors across generations and abilities! The Broskys' experience is just one example of a broader phenomenon of retirees reclaiming outdoor spaces as platforms for community engagement. At 73, Joe transformed his park experiences into "Cup of Joe with Joe," virtual hiking presentations through the Virtual Senior Academy that bring nature to homebound seniors. His oldest participant, his 91-year-old mother-in-law, is a clear-cut example of how technology can democratize access to Pennsylvania's natural heritage when physical limitations prevent direct visitation. Research confirms what Joe discovered intuitively: that even viewing nature photographs or videos delivers measurable health benefits, from lowered blood pressure to stress relief. It’s an insight that drives his mission to share virtual park experiences with seniors from Wisconsin to Washington, D.C., all free of charge! Yet the most profound impact emerges through intergenerational transmission. Joe's kayaking expedition with his grandson to Allegheny Islands State Park created what Joe calls "a gift that keeps giving." Through his book and advocacy work, Joe hopes to challenge assumptions about outdoor accessibility. Parks aren't just for the athletically ambitious; they're equally valuable for folks who are simply itching for a picnic with a view. In democratizing these spaces through multiple access points, that is, physical, virtual, and literary, Joe is living proof of how Pennsylvania's parks foster community like nothing else, no matter your age, location, or physical ability. Key Topics: Discovering the Passport Challenge (02:31)DCNR Staff Going the Extra Mile at Big Spring (04:59)Writing the Guidebook for Others (07:57)Virtual Senior Academy Outreach (10:33)Making Parks Accessible Across Ages (11:59)Intergenerational Kayaking Memory (16:13)Parks as Community Connectors (17:40)   Resources: Adventures in Penn’s Woods (book)Virtual Senior AcademyPennsylvania Parks and Forests Passport 🎧 Listen to the Think Outside Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or your favorite app while on the go! New episodes drop bi-weekly on Mondays, and you may occasionally find a bonus episode, as well! The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation inspires stewardship of YOUR state parks and forests through volunteerism, education, recreation, and philanthropy. a href="https://paparksandforests.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    20 min

  8. 10/06/2025

    Public Lands, Recreation, and Community Wellbeing: Lessons from Dr. Silas Chamberlin

    “What are we doing today so that a century from now, people look back and say, ‘Thank goodness Marci was there to do this, or Secretary Dunn was there to do that.’ You can have that kind of impact if you’re really committed to the work.” Our host, Marci Mowery, chats with Dr. Silas Chamberlin in this episode of Think Outside. Dr. Silas Chamberlin's career trajectory, from Academic Historian to York County's Chief Economic Development Officer, embodies Pennsylvania's evolving understanding of outdoor recreation. No longer viewed merely as leisure, trails and parks are now recognized as critical economic drivers generating $19 billion annually for the Commonwealth, supporting over 9,000 outdoor businesses. Silas’s research reveals a fundamental shift in how economic impact is measured. The Bureau of Economic Analysis now attributes previously dispersed data (bed-and-breakfasts near state parks, microbreweries along rail trails) directly to outdoor recreation through satellite accounting. This trillion-dollar national industry finally has quantifiable metrics. That has transformed anecdotal evidence into actionable policy. Yet Silas identifies troubling equity gaps. While outdoor participation grows more diverse, the industry's marketing emphasis on expensive gear creates barriers. The message that quality recreation requires $300 specialized equipment excludes communities for whom hiking should be accessible with basic clothing. Organizations like Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps are countering this by promoting outdoor careers as viable pathways and not just spare-time activities. York County exemplifies an integrated strategy. Their Trail Towns program, launched during the pandemic in June 2020, demonstrates measurable impact. In 2024, 14,000 visitors came directly from Gifford Pinchot State Park to Forry’s ice cream shop, with granular data showing specific customer origins. This attracts corporations seeking communities where executives want to live. Quality of life now outweighs tax incentives in location decisions. The challenge ahead involves rebuilding the volunteerism culture. Historic hiking clubs built and maintained trails collectively; modern recreationists increasingly expect maintained infrastructure as public service. With ongoing federal investment uncertainty and infrastructure like engineered rail trails and expensive playground installations requiring different maintenance approaches, Pennsylvania must adapt volunteer opportunities to meet 21st-century recreationists on their terms.   Key Topics: Historian to Economic Developer Journey (02:16)Trillion-Dollar Outdoor Economy Emergence (08:44)Equity Barriers and Gear Culture (11:57)York County Economic Data and Impact (22:40)Quality of Life in Workforce Attraction (29:17)Volunteerism Evolution and Challenges (41:41)Outdoor Business Alliance Launch (48:06)   Resources: York County Economic AllianceDr. Silas Chamberlin on LinkedInFirefly Consultancy: Outdoor Economy Strategic Advisor | Firefly ConsultancyOffice of Outdoor RecreationThe Economic Benefits of Outdoor RecreationFriends of Pinchot State...

    51 min
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6 Ratings

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Think Outside is your guide to outdoor opportunities, nature exploration, and wellness. Discover expert tips, inspiring stories, and new ways to connect with the great outdoors for a healthier, happier life. More information: https://thinkoutsidepodcast.com/

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