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

Marc Stern and Bob Powell: The Importance of Interpretation Research

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"

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

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

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

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

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

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!

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

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

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.