Cleveland Metroparks today launched its first-ever podcast “Tales & Trails presented by KeyBank.” Hosted by CEO Brian Zimmerman, each episode of the podcast goes behind-the-scenes on wide-ranging topics from wildlife and animal care, scenic destinations and hidden gems, upcoming projects and more with accompanying special guests across the Park District’s award-winning team as well as key community partners and leaders in Northeast Ohio.
The first episode airing in time for International Podcast Day looks back at the original vision of the Emerald Necklace in Northeast Ohio to see what’s changed for Cleveland Metroparks, what hasn’t, and projects underway that are bringing back the past to shape the present. “How it Started, How it’s Going: Building an Emerald Necklace” features Board of Park Commissioner Bruce Rinker and is available now on streaming platforms.
“‘Tales & Trails’ is a new way to share the incredible stories of Cleveland Metroparks with our community,” said Cleveland Metroparks CEO Brian M. Zimmerman. “This podcast will offer listeners engaging conversations on the rich history and innovative projects that make our park district special and allow our community to connect more deeply with the Emerald Necklace and the people who help preserve it.”
“Tales & Trails” features both video and audio and can be conveniently streamed on multiple platforms including Apple Music, Spotify and YouTube. New episodes will premiere on the first Monday of every month. Each episode will also allow the community to ask questions of CEO Brian Zimmerman, allowing for new behind-the-scenes insights into Cleveland Metroparks. Questions can be submitted via social media platforms and at clevelandmetroparks.com/podcast.
Upcoming episodes include:
“Everything Trails” (airing Monday, November 4): Cleveland Metroparks spans 25,000 acres across Northeast Ohio including 18 reservations with more than 325 miles of trails. Learn more about the vast network of trails throughout the Park District, the philosophy behind it and the millions of people who use them. Special guests include Mary Cierebiej, the Executive Director of the Cuyahoga County Planning Commission and Mayor of Solon Eddy Kraus to discuss the planning and execution of some of the Park District’s most impactful and upcoming new trail connections.
“The Future Zoo” (airing Monday, December 2): In 2032, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo turns 150 years old. From its early beginnings to the sprawling 183 acres today, learn how zoos have changed physically, philosophically and purposefully to secure a future for wildlife around the world. Guest Dr. Chris Kuhar also goes in-depth on the Primate Forest, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo’s largest capital project in its history.
"We are so proud to support Cleveland Metroparks in launching their first podcast, 'Tales & Trails,'” said “Cleveland Metroparks is a vital part of our community, offering invaluable spaces for recreation, education and conservation. This podcast is an excellent way to share the history and ongoing initiatives of the Park District, and we are thrilled to be a part of this exciting new platform that will help deepen the connection between the Metroparks and the Northeast Ohio community."
For all information on Tales & Trails, visit
clevelandmetroparks.com/podcast.
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