Parktalk Podcast

In this episode we look at how the Park District continues to put a lot of emphasis behind its recruiting and retention efforts to ensure its continued excellence in operations. Guests: Katie Sepe, Director of Human Resources and Lisette Zuniga, HR Administrator

In this episode we highlight key environmental initiatives at the District and key recognitions received. Guests: Tim Quigley, Director of Parks and Sue Omanson, Community Development Manager

In this episode we gain insights regarding the successes and continuing challenges of operating in a state of flux due to the pandemic. Guests: Brad Wilson, Executive Director; Andrea Coates, Superintendent of Recreation, Kevin Carlson, Director of Golf and Sue Stanish, Director of Finance

Park District staff looks back at 2021 accomplishments and previews key 2022 initiatives. Guests: Brad Wilson, Executive Director; Eric Shutes, Director of Planning

In this episode we introduce two of the four new commissioners elected in April 2021 and learn more about them. Guests: Commissioners Leslie Ruffing and Rhonda Ansier

In this episode we introduce two of the four new commissioners elected in April 2021 and learn more about them. Guests: Mary Gibson, Park Board Vice President and Alison Thompson, Park Board Commissioner

In this episode, we kick off the podcast’s theme of “Rebuilding and Renewing” in addition to providing a high-level overview of the aspects to be covered in the various 2022 State of the Naperville Park District episodes. Guests: Marie Todd, Park Board President and Mary Gibson, Park Board Vice President

Volunteer and retired teacher David Cleveland shares stories from decades of environmental projects with children and adults and his nature experiences while running locally and internationally.

Nature Center Manager Angelique Harshman gives insight into the needs and habits of common animals and birds that overwinter in northern Illinois, where to see them, bird feeding tips, and how to look for animal tracks in the snow.

Dr. Doug Taron, biologist and Chief Curator of the Chicago Academy of Sciences at the Peggy Notebaert Museum, discusses the unique characteristics of fireflies and how to appreciate and protect them.

Ben Mjolsness, the City of Naperville’s first Sustainability Coordinator, discusses the City’s opportunities for working with local partners to make progress in saving energy, reducing waste and conserving our natural environment on a local level.

John Teper and Spencer Huard explain the latest improvements to the disc golf course at Knoch Knolls Park and why they enjoy the sport and this location.

Lee Meyer, a fleet technician for the Naperville Park District, explains the latest improvements that make the District’s vehicles and equipment cleaner, greener, safer and more efficient.

John Teper, one of the park operations managers for the Naperville Park District, shares some of the innovations that staff has developed to solve everyday problems. These include a dust shield for a baseball field groomer, a paint mixing station, floating islands of native plants in ponds and more.

Geriatric psychiatrist Dr. Sachin Bhalerao explains the challenges of isolation for older adults and offers hope and practical advice for those recovering from mental illnesses that may have developed during the COVID-19 pandemic. He also discusses the importance of structure and social contact in maintaining a healthy mind in both good and bad times.

Gina Sharp, President and CEO of Linden Oaks Behavior Health, comments on the mental health pandemic that has occurred with COVID-19 and gives tips for returning to work, coping with stress, connecting with nature and getting the rest we need.

KidsMatter is a local nonprofit working to empower kids to realize their purpose, know their value and find their pathway. Executive Director and CEO Nina Menis describes the community resources available to help youth cope with anxiety and emerge stronger from the pandemic.

Jennifer Slown and Lew Breese describe the future Gold Star Families Memorial planned for Veterans Park in Naperville, why it's important and how others can help.

Gregg Kantz, founder of the nonprofit organization, Pull-up Bars for Patriots, explains why he wants to honor fallen service members by installing pull-up bar memorials in parks. So far, two memorials are installed: one in Wheaton and the newest one in Naperville at Wolf's Crossing Community Park.

Nature Center Manager Angelique Harshman takes us on a spring wildflower walk in the woods. Learn about what to look for and what makes these flowers unique.