Podcast · Tech & Science

Planning the Wild

by Rachel Franchina · English · Tech & Science

Welcome to Planning the Wild, the podcast designed for U.S. Forest Service professionals and partners working to enhance outdoor recreation experiences on national forest lands in the Pacific Northwest. Each episode offers practical strategies, expert interviews, and field-based insights to support

New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 28 min
Latest: 14 Oct 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

14 Oct 2026 · 29 minNew

Shared Stewardship for Recreation

In the final episode of season 3, Kristin Dahl from Crosscurrent Collective draws on her experience as a guide, facilitator and collaborative process expert to discuss what it takes to create lasting impact with shared stewardship efforts. She reiterates many themes we heard throughout season 3: shared vision, relationships, trust-building, and celebrating success. Kristin and Rachel also talk about the importance of having a third-party facilitator, how to fund shared stewardship, and the role of process in sustaining momentum. Kristen Dahl discusses the importance of shared stewardship in…

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Earlier episodes 19 most recent

S3 · E6 · 7 Oct 2026 · 28 min
Expanding Capacity for Recreation
In this episode, Jeff Parker from Northwest Youth Corps discusses the evolution of conservation work, the role of youth programs in land management, and the future of shared stewardship amidst wildfire challenges. Jeff and Rachel talk about the importance of fostering youth conservation corps and how participants shape public lands stewardship whether they go into recreation and conservation careers or not. Resources Northwest Youth Corps About Jeff Jeff Parker is the President and CEO of Northwest Youth Corps, based in Eugene, Oregon. Jeff holds a BA in Political Science from the University…
S3 · E5 · 30 Sep 2026 · 26 min
Trail Rehab, Scenery and Restoration
In this episode, Eddie Espinosa and Mic McLane from Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance discuss the evolution of their organization from advocacy to shared stewardship, emphasizing collaboration with land managers, community engagement, and adaptive management in outdoor recreation. They also discuss how their love for trails and helping people enjoy the outdoors has shaped EMBA's approach to partnerships for the greater good. Resources Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance About Eddie Growing up in Puyallup, and graduating from Pacific Lutheran University, Eddie has spent many years exploring the…
S3 · E4 · 23 Sep 2026 · 25 min
Using Data to Inform Collective Management
In this episode, Sama Winder from the University of Washington's Outdoor Recreation and Data Lab discusses innovative methods for estimating visitor use, the importance of collaborative data collection, and how land managers can effectively use data to inform recreation planning and management. Sama and Rachel also discuss how data is not perfect and using data to have conversations about recreation management decisions. Resources Outdoor Recreation & Data Lab About Sama Sama is a Senior Research Scientist with experience and expertise in using quantitative methods to address a wide range of…
S3 · E3 · 16 Sep 2026 · 32 min
Planning Across Boundaries
In this episode, Zach and Molly share their extensive experience in public lands management, focusing on shared stewardship, recreation planning, and collaboration across agencies to protect and enhance public lands for future generations. They provide real-world examples of recreation shared stewardship in action and talk to Rachel about the shifts they've seen in how the Forest Service approaches recreation planning and management. Resources: SE Group About Zach "How can we leave our public lands—and the places we love to recreate—a little better than we found them?" This question has…
S3 · E2 · 9 Sep 2026 · 28 min
Collective Impact Models for Recreation
In this episode, Cailin O'Brien-Feeney shares insights from her two decades of experience in outdoor recreation, policy, and funding. Rachel and Cailin explore how the outdoor industry has evolved, the role of collective impact, and innovative financing solutions for public lands and recreation projects. Cailin defines what conservation finance is for recreation and how it supports shared stewardship goals. He also shares tangible examples of conservation finance in action. Resources Quantified Ventures About Cailin Cailin brings two decades of experience working either in or for the…
S3 · E1 · 2 Sep 2026 · 31 min
Shared Vision for Recreation and Trails
In this episode, Jaime Loucky from Washington Trails Association discusses shared stewardship, wildfire recovery, and the evolving role of nonprofits in outdoor recreation and land management. Rachel and Jaime talk about how collaboration, trust, and adaptability are shaping the future of public lands stewardship. They also explore the importance of having a shared vision and goals that agencies, partners, and communities work together on. Resources Washington Trails Association About Jaime Growing up in Bellingham, with the North Cascades practically in his backyard, Jaime developed a…
S2 · E7 · 17 Apr 2026 · 29 min
Building Relationships and Trust
In this episode of Planning the Wild, Rachel Franchina and Leander Lacy discuss the critical role of trust and relationships in recreation planning and conservation. They explore the importance of inclusivity in conservation efforts, the need for equitable access to outdoor spaces, and the significance of building trust with communities. Leander shares his unique journey into conservation, emphasizing the human dimensions of natural resources and the necessity of engaging diverse voices in the planning process. The conversation highlights practical examples of trust-building in action and…
S2 · E6 · 9 Apr 2026 · 28 min
Visitor Use Management Framework
In this episode of Planning the Wild, Rachel is joined by Maureen Finnerty, chair of the Interagency Visitor Use Management Council. Maureen shares about the origins of the Visitor Use Management (VUM) framework, a tool built from lessons learned across federal agencies like the NPS, Forest Service, BLM, and others. The conversation covers how the flexible framework is helping to make planning more proactive, adaptable, and ultimately more resilient in the face of growing visitation and natural challenges. Resources: IVUMC Training Resources SORP VUM Resources About Maureen Maureen Finnerty…
S2 · E5 · 3 Apr 2026 · 25 min
Mid-level Recreation Planning
In this episode of Planning the Wild, host Rachel Franchina welcomes Mary Ellen, a seasoned recreation planner with extensive experience in land management. They discuss Mary Ellen's journey into recreation planning, the importance of collaboration, and the critical elements of effective recreation planning. The conversation delves into mid-level recreation planning, its distinction from NEPA, and the significance of engaging diverse perspectives in planning processes. Mary Ellen shares her insights on the evolving landscape of public land management and expresses hope for the future as more…
S2 · E4 · 25 Mar 2026 · 30 min
Site Planning and Design
In this episode, Rachel Franchina discusses the foundations of recreation planning with guests Nancy Brunswick and Brad Cownover, both experienced landscape architects and recreation planners. They share their personal journeys into the field, emphasizing the importance of creativity, site planning, and understanding user needs in designing effective recreation spaces. The conversation also touches on the evolution of recreation planning within the Forest Service and the significance of the built environment in enhancing user experiences. Finally, they express hope for the future of public…
S2 · E3 · 12 Mar 2026 · 37 min
Integrating Recreation in NEPA
In this conversation, Rachel Franchina speaks with Linda Marigliano, a recently retired Recreation and Wilderness Program Manager, about her extensive career in recreation management within the Forest Service. They discuss the importance of leading with passion for the land, evolving public engagement strategies, and the integration of recreation into broader planning efforts. Linda shares her journey into conservation, the significance of partnerships, and the ongoing challenges and opportunities in managing public lands. The conversation highlights the shift in societal values towards…
S2 · E2 · 2 Mar 2026 · 28 min
Recreation Opportunity Spectrum: Challenges and Opportunities with ROS
In this episode of Planning the Wild, Rachel Franchina interviews Monika Derrien, a social scientist focused on outdoor recreation management. They discuss Monika's contrasting childhood experiences in urban Queens and rural Vermont, her journey to becoming a social scientist, and her transition from the Forest Service to academia. The conversation delves into the Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS), its historical context, its evolution, and its influence on recreation planning. They also explore the challenges and opportunities in implementing ROS, findings from Monika's research on ROS…
S2 · E1 · 23 Feb 2026 · 41 min
History of Recreation Planning
In this episode of Planning the Wild, Rachel Franchina talks to Bob Ratcliffe, a veteran in outdoor recreation planning and management. They discuss the evolution of outdoor recreation, Bob's personal journey, and the importance of understanding the history of outdoor management to inform future practices. The conversation highlights key milestones in outdoor recreation planning, the significance of collaboration across agencies, and the lessons learned from past experiences. About Bob Ratcliffe Bob has graduate and undergraduate degrees in conservation, outdoor recreation and resource…
S1 · E6 · 25 Aug 2025 · 44 min
Treaty Rights and Recreation: Andrew Gobin on Understanding Treaty Rights in Recreation Planning
In this episode of "Planning the Wild," we delve into the intersection of traditional knowledge and modern resource management with Andrew Gobin, the treaty rights manager for the Tulalip Tribes. Raised in the traditions of his people, Andrew shares how these teachings guide his work in protecting the rights and resources of his community. Discover how tribal sovereignty and traditional management practices are being integrated into contemporary strategies to preserve natural resources. Join us for an insightful conversation on the importance of cultural heritage in shaping sustainable…
S1 · E5 · 19 Aug 2025 · 25 min
Leading the Way: Sustainable Recreation on the Olympic Peninsula
Join Rachel Franchina as she sits down with Laurie Thorpe, a seasoned public lands professional, to explore the evolving landscape of sustainable outdoor recreation. Discover how collaborative efforts and innovative models are shaping the future of the Olympic Peninsula, ensuring accessibility and resilience for generations to come. Dive into the challenges and opportunities that come with redefining outdoor recreation in a rapidly changing world. Resources: Olympic Peninsula Outdoor Recreation Collaborative https://www.opoutdoorreccollab.com/ Outdoor Recreation Use Insights…
S1 · E4 · 7 Aug 2025 · 30 min
Nature's Calling: Alyssa Brownlee on Building a Business in the Wild
On this episode of "Planning the Wild" we dive into the inspiring journey of Alyssa Brownlee, a passionate outdoor enthusiast and business owner. From her adventurous childhood to becoming a river guide and now owner of Horse Creek Lodge, Alyssa shares her story of finding solace in nature and turning her love for the outdoors into a thriving business. Discover how she navigates the challenges of running a recreation business in the heart of the Willamette National Forest, and the importance of community partnerships in the outdoor recreation economy. Tune in for an engaging conversation…
S1 · E3 · 4 Aug 2025 · 27 min
Investing in People: How the Outdoor Recreation Economy Depends on a Dynamic Workforce
In this episode of "Planning the Wild," Rachel Franchina sits down with Kate Porsche, the Director of OSU's Center for the Outdoor Recreation Economy. Kate shares her journey from economic development to outdoor recreation workforce development, highlighting how intertwined they are. She also talks about her unique skills like ham radio operation and welding, which she humorously refers to as her "zombie apocalypse skills." Tune in to explore how these personal interests and skills intersect with her professional life, offering insights into workforce development and the outdoor recreation…
S1 · E2 · 30 Jul 2025 · 24 min
Trailblazing Together: Don Amador on Recreation Management
In this episode of "Planning the Wild", we delve into the world of trail advocacy and recreation management with Don Amador, a seasoned expert with over 35 years of experience. Discover how Don's journey from a family rooted in the outdoors to becoming a pivotal figure in trail stewardship has shaped his approach to managing public lands. We explore the importance of long-term relationships, the impact of natural disasters on recreation facilities, and the collaborative efforts needed to ensure sustainable access to the great outdoors. Whether you're a recreation planner, trail manager, or…
S1 · E1 · 28 Jul 2025 · 26 min
Rural Renaissance: How Public-Private Collaborations Drive Change
In this episode, we explore the transformative power of Public-Private Partnerships in rural communities. We dive into how these collaborations are bridging gaps, fostering innovation, and driving sustainable development. Rachel talks to Nick Green about his journey from defense intelligence to rural community revitalization. They discuss the importance of a shared vision for the future and the power of outdoor recreation to bring people together. Tune in to discover how synergy between public and private sectors is reshaping the landscape of rural development. About Nick Nick Green is the…

About Planning the Wild

Planning the Wild is a English tech & science podcast from Rachel Franchina. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: Rachel Franchina
Language: English
Category: Tech & Science
New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 28 min
Latest episode: 14 Oct 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1829484819
Rights: 2025

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