Lake Doctor | A Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams Podcast

In this episode of the Lake Doctor podcast, Suzie Light and Dr. Nate Bosch welcome Jodi Wray, Technical Environmental Specialist at the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM). A Grace College graduate who spent four years working at the Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams, Jodi now writes industrial wastewater permits that regulate point-source discharges into Indiana’s lakes and streams.

She explains how NPDES permits work, what “designated uses” mean for water bodies, and how data collected by groups like the Lilly Center helps set protective limits. The conversation also revisits her student research on zebra mussels, the importance of quality-assurance standards, and the difference between point-source and non-point-source pollution. Jodi shares practical advice for homeowners and reflects on the professionalism and hands-on experience she gained at the Lilly Center that now shape her work protecting Indiana’s waters.

Guest Bio: Jodi Wray attended Grace College, where she received her BS degree in environmental science as well as a Master's in nonprofit management. While at Grace, she worked as an intern on the field research team at the Lilly Center. Currently she works as a technical environmental specialist for IDEM and has been with the agency for four years. Her love for God's creation has led to a passion for environmental stewardship and sustainability. She lives in Indianapolis with her husband, Brandon. When not working, she likes to travel.

Learn more about the Lilly Center's work at https://lakes.grace.edu/.

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In this episode of the Lake Doctor podcast, Suzie Light and Dr. Nate Bosch talk with Dr. Ty Hoskins, Research Assistant Professor at Purdue University’s Department of Forestry and Natural Resources. Ty breaks down PFAS—per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, better known as “forever chemicals”—explaining why their ultra-strong carbon-fluorine bonds make them so useful in everyday products and so persistent once they reach the environment.

He shares his research on PFAS in largemouth bass living in Indiana farm ponds near fields that receive agricultural biosolids. The conversation covers how these chemicals move from wastewater sludge into soils and nearby waters, why ponds are both understudied and highly relevant, and how bioaccumulation and biomagnification can concentrate PFAS in the fish people catch and eat. Ty also clarifies the science in plain language, from surfactant properties to indicator species, giving listeners a clearer picture of a complex and important water-quality issue.

Download and view the Purdue Indiana Statewide PFAS Assessment: https://docs.lib.purdue.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1001&context=isfdocs.

Ty’s work highlights an often-overlooked piece of the water-quality picture: the thousands of small ponds scattered across Indiana farmland. By focusing on these systems and the fish that live in them, his research helps connect everyday agricultural practices to potential human exposure and shows why understanding “forever chemicals” in local waters is becoming increasingly important for both scientists and communities.

Dr. Tyler Hoskins is the research assistant professor in Purdue's Department of Forestry and Natural Resources. His work mainly focuses on the effects of PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl chemicals) on the environment, especially aquatic species like amphibians and fish. He attained his B.S. in Biology from Butler University and eventually went on to get his Ph.D. in Ecology, Evolution, and Environmental Biology from Miami University in Ohio. He's published several scientific articles regarding data collected through various projects.

Learn more about the Lilly Center's work at https://lakes.grace.edu/.

Have a question we could answer on the podcast? Send an email to [email protected] or submit a comment below.

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In this episode of the Lake Doctor podcast, Suzie Light and Dr. Nate Bosch sit down with Caitlin Yoder, Watershed and Special Projects Coordinator at The Watershed Foundation (TWF). A Grace College graduate, Caitlin shares how her love of gardening and problem-solving led her into watershed work.

She walks through the TWF’s cost-share programs—Healthy Shorelines and the newer Beyond Lawns initiative—that help landowners convert lawns and shorelines into native plantings. From prairie plantings under solar panels to projects under five acres, these programs make it possible for properties of almost any size to contribute to clean water and healthy lakes. Caitlin also shares about the Native Nerds Kosciusko community group, the real-life challenges of home gardening, and why building local connections matters just as much as the plants themselves.

This episode is a hopeful look at how all communities and properties can collaborate to be part of the solution for healthier Kosciusko County lakes and streams.

Caitlin Yoder grew up in Warsaw, Indiana and attended Grace College, where she received a degree in accounting. She went on to receive a Certificate in Watershed Management from the Indiana Watershed Leadership Academy at Purdue University. Since 2021, she's worked as the Watershed and Special Project Coordinator at The Watershed Foundation. In her free time, she enjoys gardening, creating community, and helping folks take action for their lakes. She currently lives in Winona Lake with her husband, Vince, two sons, Theo and Fletcher, and Sammy the dog.

Learn more about the Lilly Center's work at https://lakes.grace.edu/.

Have a question we could answer on the podcast? Send an email to [email protected] or submit a comment below.

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In this episode of The Lake Doctor Podcast, Suzie Light and Dr. Nate Bosch welcome TJ Faur, a Grace College alumnus and environmental quality technician at the Fort Wayne Zoo. TJ shares his journey from northern Indiana lakes to the zoo, where he focuses on water chemistry and quality for animals ranging from stingrays to eastern hellbenders.

He explains how environmental audits and long-term data collection lead to real improvements—like installing a simple fan to clear a CO₂ blanket over Stingray Bay and dramatically raising oxygen levels. TJ also details the zoo’s hellbender head-start collaborative conservation program with Purdue University, raising young hellbenders for release into southern Indiana rivers, and contrasts them with local mudpuppies.

The conversation highlights parallels with the Lilly Center’s work: using data to drive action, monitoring environmental parameters, and preparing the next generation of environmental stewards. Practical, insightful, and full of real-world examples, this episode shows how zoo water quality science connects directly to healthier lakes and streams.

Guest Bio: TJ has served as the environmental quality technician at the Fort Wayne Zoo since 2024. A graduate of Grace College, TJ has a passion for the outdoors, water sports, and water. As a student, TJ interned on the Lilly Center's aquarium team caring for aquatic critters. This experience serves him well in his role at the Fort Wayne Zoo where he ensures environmental quality (water, air, temperature, soil, humidity, noise) for all the animals at the zoo. In his free time, TJ enjoys competitive disc golf and ultimate frisbee.

Learn more about the Lilly Center's work at https://lakes.grace.edu/.

Have a question we could answer on the podcast? Send an email to [email protected] or submit a comment below.

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In this episode of The Lake Doctor Podcast, Dr. Nate Bosch gets a jump scare from guest Emily Anderson, Education Coordinator at the Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams. Emily shares her journey from Grace College student to full-time educator and explains how hands-on experiences spark lifelong water literacy in K-12 students.

From field trips exploring wetlands and aquariums to sensory boxes, vocab exercises, and a virtual aquarium that brings student creations to life, this episode demonstrates why experiential learning creates lasting connections to local lakes and streams. Emily highlights the joy of seeing kindergartners discover tadpoles and crayfish, the importance of outdoor time, and how these programs build curiosity and stewardship in the next generation.

Join us for a fun and inspiring discussion packed with practical ideas for parents and teachers who want to get kids outside and engaged with nature. Learn how the Lilly Center is shaping future lake stewards through engaging, memorable education.

Learn more about the Lilly Center's work at https://lakes.grace.edu/.

Have a question we could answer on the podcast? Send an email to [email protected] or submit a comment below.

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As we kick off Season 3 of The Lake Doctor Podcast, Suzie Light and Dr. Nate Bosch sit down with Doug and Dawn Armey to celebrate their remarkable journey into wetland restoration. What began with a simple wood duck nesting box on a mailbox led to partnering with Scott Fetters, Private Lands Biologist with the US Fish and Wildlife Service, and NRCS to convert marginal cropland into six beautiful, functional wetlands on their property.

Doug and Dawn share how these wetlands support abundant wildlife — from wood ducks and geese to Blanding’s turtles — while providing flood storage, nutrient filtration, and a peaceful refuge for their family and grandchildren. They discuss the long-term commitment of conservation easements, managing invasives like Phragmites and poison hemlock, using prescribed burns and water control structures, and the joy of passing on a love for nature to the next generation.

Their story shows how everyday landowners can turn challenging land into lasting ecological treasures that benefit water quality, wildlife, and future stewards. A perfect story of patience, partnership, and legacy.

Guest bio: Doug and Dawn Armey are Warsaw natives with deep roots in Kosciusko County. After meeting at a now defunct dance hall, the Armeys married and quickly found a shared passion for conservation. Rooted in the idea of giving more than he takes from nature, Doug worked with Scott Fetters to restore bird habitat on their property. An avid hunter, Doug trains his own bird dogs, a talent he shared with his son, Ross.

Learn more about the Lilly Center's work at https://lakes.grace.edu/.

Have a question we could answer on the podcast? Send an email to [email protected] or submit a comment below.

Help us improve the podcast by filling out this short survey: https://forms.gle/MzGSXHcnkEQC8T74A.

In the final episode of season two of the Lake Doctor Podcast, Indiana DNR Herpetologist Nate Engbrecht takes a fascinating deep dive into the world of turtles. We discuss everything from common painted and snapping turtles to rare species like Blanding’s, spotted, and even an unexpected alligator snapping turtle documented in Kosciusko County.

Nate shares insights on critical spring breeding grounds, how turtles can survive winter under ice, the challenges of habitat loss and nest predation, and why most turtles may not make great pets. The conversation also covers proper handling if you find a turtle on the road, reporting rare sightings to help conservation efforts, and the important role forested wetlands and natural shorelines play in supporting turtle populations.

Packed with practical advice, fun childhood stories, and turtle shell show-and-tell, this episode highlights why protecting turtles and their wetland habitats is essential for healthier lakes and vibrant local ecosystems.

Report a rare turtle sighting by emailing [email protected] 

Learn more about the Lilly Center's work at https://lakes.grace.edu/.

Have a question we could answer on the podcast? Send an email to [email protected] or submit a comment below.

Help us improve the podcast by filling out this short survey: https://forms.gle/MzGSXHcnkEQC8T74A.

In Episode 22 of The Lake Doctor Podcast, we make an exciting announcement: Grace College and the Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams has received a transformative grant from Lilly Endowment to launch Lake Rx — a bold new initiative to create customized “prescriptions” for improving the health of local lakes.

Dr. Nate Bosch explains how Lake Rx will develop targeted, holistic solutions for individual lakes in Kosciusko County. These include constructing and restoring wetlands, incentivizing lake-friendly agricultural practices, promoting responsible boating, enhancing shoreline vegetation with native plants, and rebalancing lake ecosystems. The goal is to speed up lake recovery from decades of nutrient pollution and make measurable, visible improvements in water clarity and quality in tens of years rather than hundreds of years.

Nate and Suzie discuss the inspiration behind the program (including a memorable visit to ultra-clear Crater Lake), the importance of collaboration with community partners, and why sustained funding and community support will be critical for long-term success. This episode marks a major milestone for lake stewardship in northern Indiana.

To stay up-to-date on the latest Lake Rx news, sign up for the Lilly Center's monthly newsletter at: https://forms.aweber.com/form/83/118972383.htm.

Support the Lilly Center's work: https://lakes.grace.edu/ways-to-give/

Learn more about the Lilly Center's work at https://lakes.grace.edu/.

Have a question we could answer on the podcast? Send an email to [email protected] or submit a comment below.

Help us improve the podcast by filling out this short survey: https://forms.gle/MzGSXHcnkEQC8T74A.

In Episode 21 of The Lake Doctor Podcast, Jason Kissel, Executive Director of ACRES Land Trust, joins us for a fascinating conversation about forested wetlands and ephemeral wetlands. Jason's lifelong passion for trees was sparked at age five while standing on a mountaintop with his U.S. Forest Service father. Jason also shares why northeast Indiana is special as a crossroads of prairie, forest, wetland, and boreal systems.

The discussion dives into forested wetlands—places where trees thrive in seasonally flooded soils—along with rare bogs like Glenwood Bog, where trees grow atop floating sphagnum mats. Jason describes ephemeral (temporary) pools that appear briefly each spring, serving as critical breeding grounds for amphibians like spring peepers because they lack predators. He also covers ACRES Land Trust’s work protecting nearly 9,000 acres, restoring wetlands, managing invasives, and using mitigation projects to create larger, connected natural areas.

Practical and inspiring, this episode highlights how protecting trees and wetlands improves water quality, supports biodiversity, and benefits the lakes and streams we all enjoy in Kosciusko County and beyond.

Learn more about the Lilly Center's work at https://lakes.grace.edu/.

Have a question we could answer on the podcast? Send an email to [email protected] or submit a comment below.

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In Episode 20 of The Lake Doctor Podcast, hosts Suzie Light and Dr. Nate Bosch revisit the best moments from Season 2 episodes about wetlands. They explore how wetlands act as nature’s kidneys—filtering nutrients, reducing floodwaters, and protecting lakes from pollution—while explaining the differences between marshes, swamps, bogs, and fens.

Featuring insights from Landon Vine, Nathan Herbert, Nate Simons, Jacob Macke, and Stephen Jacquemin, the episode shows how restored wetlands filter significant amounts of water and help reduce harmful algal blooms. Nate and Suzie connect these ideas to Kosciusko County and the new Lake Rx program, highlighting why protecting and restoring wetlands is key to cleaner, healthier lakes. There will be some really big news about Lake Rx in the coming weeks, so make sure you're subscribed. You won't want to miss this announcement!

Check out the full conversations featured in this episode below:

02:31 - Ep. 10 - How to Eat Like a Wetland with Landon Vine, V3 Consulting

05:31 - Ep. 18 - Quaking Bogs & Old Forests: Extraordinary Ecosystems with Nathan Herbert, The Nature Conservancy 

08:07 - Ep. 4 - Why a Controlled Wildfire is Important for our Lakes with Nate Simons, Blue Heron Ministries

14:53 - Ep. 17 - How Wetlands Help Lakes Recover with Dr. Stephen Jacquemin, Wright State University

19:12 - Ep. 19 - Why Choose Native Plants for Your Lake Property with Jacob Macke, Chapman Lake Nursery

22:38 - Ep. 14 - How to Improve Lake Health Using a Holistic Approach

Learn more about the Lilly Center's work at https://lakes.grace.edu/.

Have a question we could answer on the podcast? Send an email to [email protected] or submit a comment below.

Help us improve the podcast by filling out this short survey: https://forms.gle/MzGSXHcnkEQC8T74A.