What’s Up, Interpreters? A Podcast from the National Association for Interpretation

Jessica Moore: Growing into a Leadership Role

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 03:01:00 -0600

NAI Vice President for Programs Jessica Moore is the Superintendent at Sinks Canyon State Park and Interpretive Lead for Wyoming State Parks. She grew up in Michigan where she started her career as an Interpretive Ranger with the National Park Service, moved to Washington State where she spent 18 years working as an educator at a 725-acre wildlife park, and was hired on with Wyoming State Parks in the fall of 2022. Jessica has had a lifelong passion for nature and conservation and now enjoys spending time in beautiful Sinks Canyon. She joins Song Stott and Paul Caputo on this episode.

Launching a Career in Interpretation: Allie Elliott

Thu, 14 May 2026 04:01:00 -0600

Allie Elliott is an interpreter based in Midland, Michigan who brings together her background in biology and passion for people to create meaningful connections with the natural world. She works at the Chippewa Nature Center as an Interpretive Naturalist / Assistant Camp Director, where she focuses on youth programming and hands-on experiences that inspire curiosity, stewardship, and belonging in the outdoors. With a special interest in Michigan’s wetland ecosystems, Allie strives to make science accessible, engaging, and relevant for all audiences.

She is actively involved with NAI through the Young Professional Council and the Great Lakes Region, supporting connection, leadership, and growth for emerging professionals in the field. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring the outdoors with her husband, daughter, and two Bernese Mountain Dogs.

Allie joins NAI's Heather Manier and Madison Hyatt on this episode.

Interpreting Foodways: Grace Teofilo Hilker

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 03:26:00 -0600

Grace Teofilo Hilker, CIG, is a Volunteer Manager in St. Louis, Missouri. She has her MA in American Studies from St. Louis University and holds a BA in History and Political Science with certificates in Gender & Women’s Studies and Leadership from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She loves hiking, traveling, cooking, playing music, and doing all of the above (not at the same time) with her family. She joins NAI's Heather Manier and Emily McCowan to talk about her article in the May/June 2026 issue of Legacy Magazine, which details her prior experience in food service and how that led her to a career in interpretation.

To the Moon and Back: Brandi Stewart, Earth to Sky

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 14:41:00 -0600

Brandi Stewart is a Space Science Outreach Coordinator for the Earth to Sky Interagency Partnership. Brandi grew up near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and moved out west to complete an M. Ed. in environmental education and non-profit leadership through the North Cascades Institute's residency program. Brandi brings a background in place-based engagement, training development, and program management, primarily through their work with the National Park Service. Prior to joining the Earth to Sky team in November 2024, Brandi worked for the National Park Service for almost 14 years, as an educator and interpreter at parks such as Mount Rainier, Devils Postpile, Death Valley, and Grand Canyon. Brandi discusses the recent Artemis II mission and interpretation of outer space with Heather Manier and Paul Caputo

Interpreting Science: Jedda Foreman

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 02:30:00 -0600

Jedda Foreman, Associate Director at the Lawrence Hall of Science, oversees a group focused on learning design and educational research and how insights from those efforts get translated into tools, services, products, and professional learning that build capacity for the STEM education field. In this role, Jedda works face-to-face with educators, school and county superintendents, executive directors, teachers, principals, communities of practice, and researchers and evaluators, across a variety of learning contexts. Her focus is on designing systems that center high-quality, equitable, inclusive, and culturally relevant STEM learning experiences. She holds a B.A. from Carleton College, M.B.A. from California College of the Arts, and Graduate Certificate in Field Science and Place-Based Education from Teton Science Schools. Jedda joins Song Stott and Paul Caputo on this episode.

Fishing in the City: Richard Munoz

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 02:30:00 -0600

Richard Muñoz is the Coordinator of California Fish & Wildlife's "Fishing in the City" program and the Community Engagement Specialist for the department's North Central Region. Additionally, he received NAI's 2024 Meritorious Service Award, he is the chair of the 2026 NAI Conference in Oakland, and he represents NAI's Justice, Equity, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Section in planning the Interpreting Environmental Justice Conference. He joins Song Stott and Paul Caputo to discuss his work on this episode.

Combining Enforcement and Interpretation: David Gustafson

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 02:41:00 -0700

Dave Gustafson has served with the City of Boulder’s Open Space and Mountain Parks for 23 years as a law enforcement ranger, search-and-rescue professional, wildland firefighter, and interpreter. He teaches defensive tactics for the Boulder Police Department and teaches the National Association for Interpretation’s CIG course. Before joining Boulder, Dave worked for the National Park Service for nearly seven years. He joins NAI's Paul Caputo and Song Stott on this episode.

From the Waterways to the Stars: Rhana Paris

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 02:30:00 -0700

Rhana Paris is a retired naturalist, non-formal educator and longtime member of NAI. She loves to talk about natural environments and the critters they support as well as solutions to challenging environmental problems. Rhana is known for goofy songs, storytelling, and stargazing programs. Time is now spent hiking, kayaking, crafting and traveling.

She joins NAI's Song Stott and Paul Caputo.

From Broadcast Booth to Interpreter: Kendra Raines

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 02:38:00 -0700

Kendra Raines is a nationally syndicated radio personality and award-winning voice actor with more than two decades of experience. Kendra recently earned her Certificate of Interpretive Guiding and applies interpretive principles to her work in radio and content creation. On this episode, she joins NAI's Madison Hyatt and Paul Caputo.

Living History and America 250: James “Jay” Gardner Harrison III

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 02:30:00 -0700

James "Jay" Gardner Harrison III is a descendant of two American Presidents, William Henry Harrison and Benjamin Harrison, as well as English colonists Harmon Harrison and his cousin John Rolfe, who arrived at Jamestown, Virginia, in the early 1600s. He works as a Community Programs Assistant with the Museum Learning & Programs department of the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) in Washington, D.C. Additionally, Jay has regularly portrayed James Monroe in first person since 1987, in over 300 living history programs mainly for the James Monroe Museum in Fredericksburg, Virginia. Jay joins NAI's Song Stott and Paul Caputo.

Interpretation in Adventure Tourism: Chris Davis, Pink Adventure Tours

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 02:30:00 -0700

Chris Davis, Safety and Training Director at Pink Adventure Tours, brings a wealth of experience from the adventure tourism world. He joins NAI's Heather Manier and Paul Caputo to discuss using interpretation to create safe, meaningful, and memorable experiences for visitors and for the interpreters who lead them.

The Honorable Robert G. Stanton: NPS's First Black Director

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 02:30:00 -0700

The Honorable Robert G. Stanton received NAI’s 2025 President’s Award. As the fifteenth Director of the National Park Service, and its first African American leader, Mr. Stanton’s more than 40-year career has advanced interpretation, resource stewardship, and equitable public engagement nationwide. Beginning as a seasonal ranger at Grand Teton National Park in 1962, he rose through the ranks to lead the agency with vision, courage, and integrity.

His lifelong advocacy for inclusion and representation has profoundly shaped how the stories of America’s parks are told, broadening who sees themselves reflected in the nation’s natural and cultural heritage.

He joins NAI's Song Stott and Paul Caputo.

Interpretive Training with Empathy and Awe: Monique Thompson

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 02:27:00 -0700

Monique Thompson is the founder of Raindrop Naturalist, through which she trains guides and educators across parks, museums, and cultural sites to move beyond information delivery and into meaningful dialogue. Monique, a prolific NAI trainer, is passionate about mentoring new interpreters, advancing interpretive training worldwide, and helping organizations evolve with empathy and creativity in a changing world.

Monique joins Song Stott and Paul Caputo to discuss interpretation and to reminisce about camels in Morocco.

Interpretation and Tourism: Von Harden

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 02:30:00 -0700

Von Harden is the president and founder of the International Association of Tour Directors and Guides (IATDG), as well as the vice president of college access programs with CE Tours. Von has been working in the student travel industry for more than a quarter century. Von focuses on connecting students from underserved communities with tourism opportunities.

Von joins NAI's Heather Manier and Paul Caputo to discuss the intersection of tourism and interpretation, and where opportunities for individuals from both professions may lie.

Perception in Interpretation: André Copeland

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 02:30:00 -0600

André Copeland, Interpretive Programs Manager at Brookfield Zoo Chicago and an NAI Lead Trainer, has been an active NAI member since 2004. He will be a keynote speaker at NAI 2025 in Virginia Beach, addressing perspective and perception in interpretation. André has more than 30 years’ experience working in the zoological field which includes animal care, program development and management, frontline interpretation, interpretive training, interpretive planning, and community outreach programming. His passion is creating a bridge for people to connect with nature and André continues to amass experience in communication to improve that ability.

Interpretation at Virginia Beach Parks and Rec: Michael Kirschman

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 02:36:00 -0600

Longtime NAI member Michael Kirschman, director of Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation, joins to discuss Mount Trashmore and other jewels of the city's park system. Virginia Beach Parks and Rec manages more than 290 parks, 7,000 acres, seven large recreation centers, 185 playgrounds, 200 athletic fields, 14 boat launches, a marina, and the Princess Anne Athletic Complex, and it's Virginia Beach's largest childcare provider through its Before and After School program at 56 elementary schools. It also provides maintenance for 512 city buildings, all 91 public schools and athletic fields, and 340 miles of roadway median, all while providing interpretive experiences for visitors.

Interpretation and Global Tourism: Sebastian Frankenberger

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 02:30:00 -0600

Sebastian Frankenberger, president of the World Federation of Tour Guide Associations (WFTGA), joins to talk about the role of interpretation in tourism around the world, and how interpretation organizations and tourism organizations might partner in the future. NAI's Song Stott and Paul Caputo host.

Interpreting Tragedy from a Personal Perspective: Gaynell Brady

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 02:30:00 -0600

Gaynell Brady, CIG, is the Owner/Educator at Our Mammy’s. In her role, she develops and implements programs that teach participants about Louisiana African American genealogy and history, using her own family tree. Gaynell holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and a Master of Arts in Museum Studies from Southern University at New Orleans. She joins NAI's Song Stott and Paul Caputo to discuss her personal connection to Hurricane Katrina.

Interpretation Down Under: Interpretation Australia

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 02:30:00 -0600

Representatives from Interpretation Australia—President Sophie Daniels, Vice President Scott Killeen, and John Pastorelli—join to discuss global trends in interpretation, interpretation in Australia, and what's new with Interpretation Australia.

Traveling the World by Coordinate Plane: Natalie Teboul

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 16:08:06 -0600

Natalie Teboul, MFA, MSEd, is a "teacherpreneur" in San Diego, and the inventor of Traveling Miss T.’s Math Maps©. She tutors all grade levels and subjects, and is passionate about creating engaging curriculum, implementing best education practices, and most importantly, shaping tomorrow's thinkers and leaders. When she’s not traveling the world by Coordinate Plane, or tutoring, Natalie loves to tap dance, hike, and cook...while listening to Taylor Swift! Natalie joins Heather Manier and Song Stott.

Interpretation in Adventure Tourism: Outdoor Programs Leader Corian Yandel

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 02:39:00 -0600

As the Outdoor Programs Leader for Naventure in Florida, Corian Yandel is responsible for overseeing all outdoor recreation activities to ensure that the 350,000 annual visitors who recreate at 11 locations in the Ocala National Forest, have a fun, knowledgeable, and safe time recreating responsibly. Corian has a background in fitness and nutrition (she founded Peak Performance Fitness Facility in Wisconsin in 2015), as well as adventure tourism.

Trans First, Interpreter Second: CJ Greco

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 02:30:00 -0600

CJ Greco (they/she) is a nonbinary transwoman, activist, and naturalist from Chicago, Illinois, who is the guest editor of the current issue of NAI's Legacy magazine, "Interpreting Beyond the Binary." They have been working in informal conservation education for most of their life, starting as a youth volunteer 18 years ago. CJ currently works as the Teen Programs Manager at Lincoln Park Zoo. In 2024, CJ was announced as a part of the North American Association of Environmental Education's Environmental Educators 30 Under 30 Class of 2024.

Interpreting Music, Culture, and Freedom: New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 02:26:00 -0600

Storytelling, recordings, and live musical performances provide historical context and universal themes of resistance, struggle, creative self-expression, and freedom with the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park. Rangers Karen Armagost and Jade Perdue share the story with NAI's Song Stott and Paul Caputo.

Art Museum Interpretation: Emily Agricola Holtrop

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 02:30:00 -0600

Emily Agricola Holtrop of the Cincinnati Art Museum discusses the role of interpretation interpreting art. This episode delves into managing a team of more than 60 volunteers and navigating a turbulent climate, among much else. Emily joins NAI's Heather Manier and Madison Hyatt.

Live from Morocco!

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 02:36:00 -0600

Ride along with interpreters who participated in NAI's international un-conference in Morocco, from the streets of Marrakech to the High Atlas Mountains to the Sahara Desert! NAI's Paul Caputo checks in with participants over the course of six days from NAI's first event on the African continent.

Charlotte Giraudo, Interpretation Program Manager at ABMC

Fri, 23 May 2025 08:25:41 -0600

In this episode, we speak with Charlotte Giraudo, Interpretation Program Manager at the American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC). As the steward of 57 overseas commemorative cemeteries and memorials, ABMC honors the service, achievements, and sacrifice of U.S. armed forces. Charlotte shares the profound responsibility of interpreting these global sites, how ABMC utilizes NAI’s professional development programs to strengthen their interpretive work, and the significance of honoring the fallen through meaningful storytelling. She is joined by NAI's Paul Caputo and Song Stott.

Interpretive Planning, Design, and the Wayside Olympics: Jim Buchholz

Thu, 08 May 2025 09:45:57 -0600

Jim Buchholz, director of the Schmeeckle Reserve at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, joins to discuss interpretive planning, exhibit design, and his popular recurring NAI Conference session, the Wayside Olympics. He is the co-author of several publications, most notably Signs, Trails, And Wayside Exhibits: Connecting People And Places, part of the Interpreter's Handbook Series. Jim has served as a volunteer naturalist, was an outdoor educator at the Outdoor Skills and Education Center, developed the Interpretive Technology Lab at the Schmeeckle Reserve, and teaches environmental interpretation courses at Wisconsin Stevens Point. He joins NAI's Song Stott and Paul Caputo on this episode.

Collaboration at ZooTampa

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 13:47:02 -0600

ZooTampa applies behavioral research to develop interpretive programs co-led by Guest Engagement Guides and Animal Care Staff. Shelly Drummond and Kerry Gray discuss with Song Stott and Paul Caputo how the process improves guest experiences.

Three Decades as a Park Naturalist: Howard Aprill

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 02:32:00 -0600

Howard Aprill has had a storied career as a park naturalist with Wehr Nature Center in Milwaukee. He shares insights gleaned from nearly 30 years in the field, not to mention a lifetime in a family of interpretation royalty, with Heather Manier and Paul Caputo.

Dialogic Nature Guiding: Griffin Bray

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 02:25:00 -0600

Griffin Bray, Extension Educator at the University of Minnesota Extension, is a member of NAI's Young Professionals Council who employs dialogic interpretation in nature guiding. He joins to discuss with NAI's Heather Manier and Paul Caputo.

Making a Splash as a New Interpreter: Dan Jenkins

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 02:30:00 -0600

Dan Jenkins is just two years into his career with Cleveland Metroparks, but he's making his mark with an ambitious webcam program, presenting a session at his first NAI Conference, and winning NAI's annual 5K fun run. Dan joins NAI's Paul Caputo and Song Stott.

Jennifer Chapman: Interpretation within Disney World’s Epcot Animal Experiences at Walt Disney World Resort

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 02:30:00 -0700

Join Paul and Song with guest Jennifer Chapman, Education Manager with Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment, as she discusses front-line interpreter daily warm-up exercises and general interpretation within Epcot Animal Experiences at Walt Disney World Resort.

Nathan Taxel: Building Community through Interpretation

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 02:33:00 -0700

Newly elected NAI Board member Nathan Taxel, Interpretive Programs Curator with OC Parks, discusses the role interpretation plays in building community at the NAI regional level, in the profession as a whole, and in our larger communities. Nathan joins NAI's Heather Manier and Paul Caputo to chat about his goals for his first term on the NAI Board.

Artificial Intelligence in Interpretation: Jacquie Gilson

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 02:30:00 -0700

Jacquie Gilson (she/her) has been involved in the interpretation profession for over 45 years as an interpreter, manager, and researcher. She has worked for municipal, provincial, national, and not-for-profit park and heritage organizations. In 2015, she completed her Doctor of Social Sciences degree after studying inspiration in interpretation for her dissertation. In 2020, Jacquie retired after 8 years as the Interpretation Coordinator for Parks Canada in Lake Louise, Banff National Park.

Jacquie joins Song Stott and Paul Caputo to discuss the role of artificial intelligence in interpretation.

Interpretation in State Parks

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 02:30:00 -0700

What role does interpretation play in helping state parks achieve their goals and serve visitors? Emily Jacobs of Washington State Parks and Rob Barrett of Tennessee State Parks join NAI's Song Stott and Paul Caputo to discuss.

Ringing in the New Year!

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 02:30:00 -0700

NAI staff members Madison Hyatt, Song Stott, Heather Manier, and Paul Caputo recap 2024 and look forward to what's to come in 2025.

Live From NAI 2024 in St. Augustine, Florida!

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 02:26:00 -0700

The sold-out NAI 2024 conference brought interpreters from around the world to St. Augustine, Florida. NAI's Heather Manier and Emily McCowan spoke with participants and exhibitors during the event.

We're Thankful for Former NAI Executive Director Margo Carlock

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 02:30:00 -0700

It's Thanksgiving Day and we're thankful that Margo Carlock was the executive director for NAI from 2013 to 2020. Margo returns to chat about interpretation, retired life, and her dog Lucky with NAI's Song Stott and Paul Caputo.

Interpretation's Father-Son Duo: Jim and John Peters

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 03:25:00 -0700

Jim Peters and his son John have been involved in the industry of interpretive graphics since before there were computers to help them complete projects as far away as Saudi Arabia. They join NAI's Heather Manier and Paul Caputo to talk about their decades of work with their companies Interpretive Graphics and Envirosigns, and how the field has changed (or not) in all those years.

Kathryn Leann Harris: Interpreting Sports

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 03:30:00 -0600

Kathryn Leann Harris is the Founder & CEO of Interpreting Sports, LLC, which aims to re-center the international sports conversation around empathy, balanced humanity, and authentic connection. Kathryn Leann joins NAI's Heather Manier and Paul Caputo.

NAI's New Volunteer Section

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 04:30:00 -0600

Volunteers play a critical role at interpretive sites, but until now, NAI has never had a community dedicated to enhancing the skills and experience of interpretive volunteers. On this episode, NAI's Heather Manier and Song Stott chat with Shawna Skinner and Shaunna Costicov-McCombe, the director and deputy director of NAI's brand-new Volunteer Section.

Using Technology for Interpretation with CyArk

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 02:30:00 -0600

Cyark uses 3D modeling to provide access to heritage sites around the world, creating virtual experiences for web and mobile as well as immersive experiences for a variety of virtual reality platforms. Cyark Chairman John Ristevski and Vice President of Programs and Development Elizabeth Lee join to discuss the work they do with NAI's Heather Manier and Paul Caputo.

Cyark is an NAI commercial member and the platinum sponsor for the 2024 NAI National Conference.

Masanori Shintani, Community-Based Ecotourism around the World

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 02:30:00 -0600

Masa Shintani is a pioneer in the field of community-based ecotourism field. He established “NGO ECOLOGIC” with the mission “to protect the natural environment, regional cultures, and dignity of the local community through community-based ecotourism and interpretation.” He has supported CBET development activities in 18 countries around the world.
Masa is joined live from his ecotour site near Mt. Fuji in Japan by NAI Executive Director Paul Caputo.

Young Professionals Section, Jessica Doleh and Lauren Hennessey

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 04:18:48 -0600

Jessica Doleh and Lauren Hennessey, members of the leadership team for NAI's Young Professionals Section, share insights into this new community and its significance as a resource for young professionals. They discuss the unique challenges young professionals face and the exciting future plans for the section. NAI's Emily McCowan and Madison Hyatt join them in the conversation.

Theodore “Ted” Johnson, Community Engagement Specialist at Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 11:01:12 -0600

This week, we are excited to welcome Theodore 'Ted' Johnson, the Community Engagement Specialist at Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve and Fort Caroline National Memorial. Ted shares insights into the challenges of interpreting a site rich in both history and nature, highlighting the diverse voices that contribute their stories and the crucial role of community support. Joining him in this conversation are NAI's Paul Caputo and Song Stott.

Toby Bloom, National Program Manager for Travel, Tourism, and Interpretation, USDA Forest Service

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 08:05:01 -0600

This week's podcast features Toby Bloom, the National Program Manager for Travel, Tourism, and Interpretation at the USDA Forest Service. Toby shares her journey into this role, the significance of interpretation within a federal agency, and her collaborative efforts with international sites. NAI’s Paul Caputo and Song Stott join the conversation.

Katie Shea, Member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation & NAI Board

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 07:08:40 -0600

Katie Shea, Member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation & NAI Board, is steadfast in her commitment to educating about the cultural and political sovereignty of Indigenous peoples. Katie’s passion for elevating voices through connection and community quickly revealed to her that promoting cultural understanding can be impactful through the art of interpretation. She joins NAI's Heather Manier and Emily McCowan.

NAI Conference Preview: "Navigating Changing Tides" in St. Augustine

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 02:30:00 -0600

Registration is open for the NAI Conference, December 3–6, St. Augustine, Florida! Join the NAI Conference Committee for this preview of NAI 2024.

Amanda Thompson, Conference Chair
Marthalynne Allen, Program Chair
Jennifer Chapman, Community Outreach Chair
Alaina Allen, Volunteer Chair
Caroline Lochner, Local Arrangements/Field Trip Chair

Learn more at nai-us.org/NAIConference

Marc Stern and Bob Powell: The Importance of Interpretation Research

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 17:11:58 -0600

Marc Stern and Bob Powell have served as the editors of NAI's Journal of Interpretation Research for more than half a decade. In this episode, they discuss the value of research within the profession, and their own work as researchers. Marc J. Stern, PhD, is a professor in the Department of Forest Resources and Environmental Conservation at Virginia Tech. Bob Powell is the director of the Institute for Parks and the George B. Hartzog, Jr. Endowed Professor at Clemson University.

Nadina Galle, Ecological Engineer, National Geographic Explorer & Author of "The Nature of Our Cities"

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 03:33:45 -0600

In this episode, we welcome Nadina Galle, Ecological Engineer, National Geographic Explorer & Author of "The Nature of Our Cities." Nadina shares her insights on urban ecology, discussing how environmental data and natural behaviors can bridge the gap between technology and nature, emphasizing the role interpretation can play in this process. She joins NAI's Heather Manier and Song Stott.

Liz Morrell, Latta Place Historic Site

Thu, 30 May 2024 02:14:00 -0600

Liz Morrell is the Strategic Planning & Historic, Cultural, and Community Resources Manager for the Parks and Recreation Department in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina. She discusses the process of restoring Latta Place and highlights the involvement of community partners. Latta Place is reimagining its operations and interpretive experiences to ensure historically accurate and inclusive storytelling. NAI's Paul Caputo and Song Stott join her.

Colby Brokvist, Expedition Leader & Author

Thu, 16 May 2024 02:38:00 -0600

Colby Brokvist is an adventure guide, author, and trainer of interpretive guides around the world. Colby published a book on adventure guiding, The Professional Guide's Handbook, which includes a chapter summarizing thematic interpretation principles for guides. Colby joins Song Stott and Paul Caputo to discuss adventure guiding and interpretation.

Interpreting Environmental Justice

Thu, 02 May 2024 01:29:00 -0600

The "Interpreting Environmental Justice" online conference is back for a second year! This episode of "What's Up Interpreters?" features leaders from the two NAI sections that are putting on this event: Caroline Lochner of the NAI Sustainability Section and Richard Munoz of the NAI Justice, Equity, Diversity, Accessibility, and Inclusion Section. Caroline and Richard join Heather Manier and Paul Caputo to discuss the critical issues of interpreting environmental justice!

James Berlin, Conservation Interpreter

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 02:07:00 -0600

James is a Conservation Interpreter at the Dallas Zoo and a Senior Guest Experience Associate at the Children's Aquarium Dallas. He has been working as an interpreter for over 7 years, yet his connection with interpretation extends far beyond that, spurred by his deep appreciation for communication and human bonds. His travels commenced in late 2020, leading him to delve into diverse cultures across the globe, ranging from residing in the heart of the Amazon in Ecuador to exploring ancient archaeological marvels throughout the Americas. His current aim is clear: to inspire hope and fortitude in every individual he encounters. He joins NAI's Heather Manier and Emily McCowan this week.

Art of Access, Heather Pressman and Danielle Schulz

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 02:45:00 -0600

Heather Pressman and Danielle Schulz discuss their book Art of Access with NAI's Paul Caputo and Heather Manier this week. Heather Pressman has worked in museum education, development, and communications. She is a founding member of the organizing committee for the Art of Access Alliance in Denver, a consortium working to make Denver’s arts and cultural attractions accessible to all. Danielle Schulz is the senior manager of lifelong learning and accessibility at the Denver Art Museum, where she works with community members to promote inclusive practices that ensure visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy and be inspired by their interaction with art.

Wool E. Bull: The "E" is for Education!

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 02:12:00 -0600

This week on the podcast, we're celebrating baseball season! Guest Jef Lambdin created the mascot Wool E. Bull for the iconic minor league baseball team the Durham Bulls, made famous in the movie Bull Durham. On this episode, Jef joins hosts Song Stott and Paul Caputo to discuss the challenges and opportunities he faced communicating with audiences at scales small and large—something every interpreter can relate to—from within the mascot costume.

Lawana Holland-Moore, African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 02:22:50 -0700

Lawana Holland-Moore is the Director of Fellowships and Interpretive Strategies at the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund, National Trust for Historic Preservation. In this week's episode, she discusses the importance of the sites AACHF funds, big or small, and how they preserve stories throughout history. She is joined by NAI's Heather Manier and Song Stott.

Liz Moore, Founder of Planning School

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 02:03:00 -0700

Liz Moore is the founder of Planning School, which provides education and training in contemporary strategic planning and change leadership, including courses designed for interpretive programs. She joins NAI's Paul Caputo and Song Stott on this episode.

Mynesha Spencer, All of Us Together

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 01:20:00 -0700

Mynesha Spencer worked in the National Park Service for 13 years and was a panelist on the "From Barriers to Bridges" keynote panel at the NAI National Conference in Little Rock, Arkansas. Mynesha is the Founder, CEO and Principal Inclusion Strategist at All of Us Together Co., a human relations firm that specializes in diversity, equity and inclusion strategies and was established to improve human relations via applied training and workshop facilitation. She joins NAI's Paul Caputo and Song Stott on this episode.

Carla Gull, Associate Faculty & Coordinator of the Master of Arts in Environmental Education

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 01:58:45 -0700

Carla Gull is the coordinator of the Master of Arts of Environmental Education program and associate professor at Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center of Goshen College in northern Indiana. Dr. Gull helps educators incorporate more nature in the everyday early childhood setting and nature preschools. During this episode, she talks about the relationship between environmental education and the field of interpretation. She also discusses how her students benefit from the NAI Conference. Dr. Gull joins NAI’s Song Stott and Paul Caputo.

The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH)

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 02:43:39 -0700

The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) strives to promote, research, preserve, interpret and disseminate information about Black life, history and culture to the global community. On this episode, ASALH’s Aaisha N. Haykal and Ariel Roy join NAI’s Parker McMullen Bushman and Paul Caputo to talk about the work they do and their shared experience at the ASALH conference in Jacksonville last year.

Happy New Year from NAI!

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 02:46:00 -0700

As we close out 2023, "What's Up, Interpreters?" hosts Paul, Song, and Heather recap the year, share their New Years plans, and look forward to 2024.

Also, there are NAI podcast T-shirts available on NAI's store!

Christina Cid, Director of Strategic Projects

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 06:55:46 -0700

Christina is a longtime member of NAI"s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, is an associate editor for NAI's Legacy magazine, and will serve as the guest editor for an upcoming special issue of Legacy on "Women in Interpretation."

Interpretive Planning with Halley Fehner and Scott Vierick

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 02:00:00 -0700

Join seasoned experts in interpretive planning, Halley Fehner and Scott Vierick, as they unravel the intricacies and importance of this process. Halley and Scott highlight the essence of interpretive planning, discussing its role in reevaluating program goals, themes, and future strategies, often spanning several years. They also delve into the challenges of navigating sensitive historical contexts. Tune in for this dynamic conversation hosted by Heather Manier and Song Stott.

Live from NAI 2023 in Little Rock, Arkansas!

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 12:35:34 -0700

The 2023 NAI National Conference, "Building Bridges," took place in Little Rock, Arkansas, took place last week, November 7-11. This episode features a series of visits with conference participants who share their conference experience!

Ian Beard, Education Director, Historic Arkansas Museum

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 02:06:00 -0600

Ian Beard brings history to life at the Historic Arkansas Museum, where his passion for trades like smithing, printing, cooking, and brewing merge with his skills as an interpreter. If you're heading to Little Rock, Arkansas, for the NAI National Conference this month, you can meet Ian and hear his stories in person at the opening reception—or you can head to the museum, just blocks from the conference hotel!

He joins hosts Paul Caputo and Song Stott on the podcast this week.

Budd Wentz, World Traveler, Inventor, Interpretive Microscope Entrepreneur

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 02:53:00 -0600

Budd Wentz is a former creative consultant for the Mr. Wizard television show and a world traveler. He has degrees in mechanical engineering and law, and his childhood passion for building things led him to create the microscope company Wentzcope, a longtime NAI commercial member responsible for optical devices that have appeared in thousands of museums. He joins NAI’s Heather Manier and Paul Caputo to discuss his involvement in interpretation—and the story of Willie the cat, who has appeared in Wentzscope ads since 1988. Wentzscope is online at wentzscope.com.

Interpreting Beer with Ira Bletz

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 02:30:00 -0600

It's Oktoberfest on "What's Up, Interpreters"! NAI Board Member Ira Bletz, recently retired from East Bay Regional Park District, has made a name for himself as "Beer Guy" at NAI conferences for more than a decade. His special event, which tells the story of human civilization through the context of beer, is always a hit at the annual event. Ira joins NAI's Paul Caputo and Song Stott for this episode.

Spirit Tawfiq, Creative Antiracism Educator and Director, Roots of the Spirit

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 02:00:00 -0600

Spirit Tawfiq is the closing keynote speaker at NAI 2023 in Little Rock. Spirit has an interpretive background and uses her skillset in now hosting anti-racism workshops in k-12 classrooms, colleges and organizations who are invested in learning, unlearning, and enacting antiracism policies and practices within their respective communities. She joins hosts Song Stott and Paul Caputo to discuss her work on this episode.

Cris White, Eclipse Coordinator, Earth to Sky

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 01:53:00 -0600

There will be two solar eclipses visible from the contiguous United States and beyond in the next few years. Cris White’s job is to help interpreters prepare to interpret these unique astonomical events. She joins NAI’s Heather Manier and Amanda Berlinski to discuss her work.

Sam H. Ham, Professor Emeritus of Communication Psychology & Conservation Social Sciences

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 02:09:00 -0600

Sam H. Ham is a professor emeritus of communication psychology and conservation social sciences at the University of Idaho. He became a household name for interpreters with his book Environmental Interpretation: A Practical Guide for People with Big Ideas and Small Budgets, which was published in four languages, and more recently, Interpretation: Making a Difference on Purpose. Sam talks with Paul Caputo and Song Stott about the science of communication, his TORE model, and a little bit of baseball.

Ronny Alexander Muñoz Blanco, Certified Tour Guide and Travel Director

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 02:00:00 -0600

Ronny Alexander Muñoz Blanco is a professional tour guide in Costa Rica, and served in that role for one particularly daunting audience: NAI's recent International Un-Conference. Ronny joins NAI's Paul Caputo and Song Stott to discuss that event, the challenges of interpreting in multiple settings for international visitors, and the Pura Vida lifestyle.

Ahmad Toure, Chief of Interpretation at Virgin Islands National Park

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 02:01:00 -0600

Ahmad Toure has worked for the National Park Service for more than a decade, striving to share important, and most importantly complete stories. On this episode, he discusses that work and his Tilden Award-nominated project with hosts Paul Caputo and Song Stott.

Larry Beck, Noted Author and Interpretation Luminary

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Larry Beck's scholarship has had an immense effect on the field of interpretation. He is the author or co-author of such notable titles as Interpretation of Cultural and Natural Resources, Interpretive Perspectives, and Gifts of Interpretation: Fifteen Guiding Principles for Interpreting Nature and Culture, as well as a now 26-part series in Legacy magazine, called "Justice for All." Recently retired after a 43-year career as a professor at San Diego State University, Larry joins hosts Paul Caputo and Song Stott to talk about the past, present, and future of interpretation.

Katie Hemann and Grace Teofilo, NAI Young Professionals Council

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 02:30:00 -0600

NAI's Young Professionals Council (YPC) was established to help represent the perspective of new interpreters. Katie Hemann and Grace Teofilo talk about the challenges and opportunities facing interpreters just getting started. This episode is hosted by NAI’s Heather Manier and Emily McCowan.

Lucien Meadows, Legacy Magazine Editor

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 02:30:00 -0600

Longtime NAI member, former NAI Conference Chair, and new editor of Legacy Magazine joins hosts Paul Caputo and Song Stott to discuss the future of NAI's premier periodical.

Parker McMullen Bushman, NAI President

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 03:00:00 -0600

The debut episode of NAI's podcast welcomes association president Parker McMullen Bushman, who joins hosts Song Stott and Paul Caputo during NAI's International Un-Conference in Costa Rica. Parker shares her story, her perspective on interpretation, and her vision for her tenure as NAI President.

What’s Up, Interpreters? A Trailer

Wed, 17 May 2023 17:08:04 -0600

Big things are afoot at NAI, and we're bringing you this podcast to chat about them! We'll talk with movers and shakers and innovators and leaders in the field of interpretation and we'll ask them all, "What's Up, Interpreters?!"