Lake Doctor | A Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams Podcast

In this episode of The Lake Doctor Podcast, we wade into the world of wetlands with Landon Vine, a wetland scientist at V3 Companies. Landon shares his passion for these vital ecosystems and explains how wetlands serve as nature’s filtration systems—cleaning water, supporting biodiversity, and protecting communities from flooding. Through his work, Landon bridges the gap between environmental science and everyday impact, showing how restoration and responsible development can work hand-in-hand. With visual aids, Landon shows how unique Indiana's wetland plants are as well as their aesthetic beauty.

Together, we explore the challenges and rewards of wetland conservation and what it takes to maintain, restore, and even create these complex landscapes. Landon’s insights offer a fascinating look at how science, stewardship, and collaboration can preserve the health of our waterways for generations to come.

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, we’re joined by Eddie Gill, Executive Director of The Friends of White River in Indianapolis, Indiana. Eddie shares how his organization connects people to the water through hands-on programs, community events, and environmental outreach. From river cleanups to outdoor education initiatives, he discusses the importance of creating opportunities for people of all ages to learn about and engage with their local ecosystems beyond the traditional classroom setting.

Together, we explore how experiential learning deepens our understanding of stewardship and inspires communities to take action for cleaner, healthier waterways. Eddie’s passion for accessible, outdoor education offers valuable insight into how organizations can work together to make conservation a shared responsibility.

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, we welcome Ryan Workman—Grace College alumnus and current environmental scientist at Stantec. Ryan reflects on how his years with the Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams gave him hands-on research opportunities, professional mentorship, and a deeper understanding of real-world environmental challenges. From conducting water-quality studies to collaborating with local conservation partners, those early experiences became the foundation for his career in environmental consulting.

Ryan shares how the skills he developed—data analysis, field research, and community engagement—continue to shape his work today as he tackles complex projects protecting natural resources. His journey demonstrates how investing in students not only transforms individual lives but also strengthens the broader effort to care for our lakes, streams, and ecosystems. Learn more about how the Lilly Center equips future scientists at lakes.grace.edu.

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 this episode of The Lake Doctor Podcast, we sit down with Treleen Cox, a first-grade teacher at Leesburg Elementary who is passionate about hands-on learning. Treleen shares how she introduces her students to the wonders of the natural world through exploration, curiosity, and interactive experiences. From outdoor, exploratory lessons to engaging classroom experiments, her approach shows how even the youngest learners can begin to see how the world around them has so much beauty and complexity.

Together, we discuss the power of experiential education and how fostering curiosity early can lead to lifelong environmental stewardship. Treleen’s stories highlight the impact of connecting children with lakes, wetlands, streams, and the outdoors—helping them not only understand science but also develop respect for the world around them. Whether you’re an educator, parent, or lifelong learner, this episode offers inspiration for cultivating wonder in the next generation.

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 this episode of The Lake Doctor Podcast, we dive into the often-overlooked world of riparian rights and lake law with local Warsaw attorney, Steve Snyder. Steve brings years of legal expertise to help listeners understand who owns what when it comes to Indiana’s lakes—where private property ends, where public access begins, and how shoreline use is governed. With practical examples, engaging stories, and clear explanations, he sheds light on the legal complexities that shape everyday life for lakefront property owners and recreational users.

Whether you’re a homeowner wondering about dock placement, a resident concerned about water access, or simply curious about how laws protect our waterways, this conversation will equip you with valuable insight. Steve and the Lilly Center team unpack the balance between individual rights and shared responsibility, reminding us that clear laws help preserve the beauty and health of our lakes for generations to come. 

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 this episode of The Lake Doctor Podcast, we dive into a topic that often goes unnoticed—what happens after you flush the toilet? Tyler Hammerle, Project Manager at Wessler Engineering, breaks down the fascinating journey of wastewater, from your home to wastewater treatment facilities and beyond. With clarity and a touch of humor, Tyler explains how modern infrastructure protects both human health and the ecosystems we love, especially our lakes and streams.

Listeners will gain a new appreciation for the wastewater management systems working quietly beneath their feet—and the people who manage them. Learn how wastewater is treated, why septic systems matter, and how our everyday habits can either support or strain the health of local water bodies. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most important (and underappreciated) parts of modern human health practices and environmental stewardship.

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 this episode of The Lake Doctor Podcast, we welcome Nate Simons, Executive Director of Blue Heron Ministries and a long-time leader in ecological restoration. During our discussion, we will explore what it means to be stewards of the land. Nate shares stories from decades of restoring native habitats like prairies and wetlands across Indiana and offers a hopeful vision for how thoughtful human intervention can reverse ongoing damage and strengthen ecosystems.

From reintroducing native wetland like fens to restoring ecosystems with fire, Nate helps us understand how care and collaboration can lead to lasting environmental impact. This episode will equip and encourage you to see your role in the bigger picture of creation care.

Visit lakes.grace.edu to learn more about the research mentioned in this episode and discover how you can support healthy lakes and streams in your community.

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.

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.

On this episode of The Lake Doctor Podcast, we’re joined by Dugan Julian, Northeast Regional Specialist for Indiana at the Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA) and a former student of Dr. Nate Bosch (The Lake Doctor). Dugan shares how his circumstances and time with the marines eventually led him into a career combating invasive plant species across Northern Indiana. From lake shores to neighborhood landscaping, we explore the real-world impact of invasive plants on Indiana's ecosystems—and how we can help to stop their spread.

You’ll also learn how to tell the difference between look-alike plants like Queen Anne’s lace and the dangerous poison hemlock. Dugan shares how foraging and eating certain invasive plants—like garlic mustard—can be a fun and practical way to protect the environment. Whether you’re a homeowner, a hiker, or a weekend lake goer, this episode is packed with insights on how you can play a role in native biodiversity.

Visit lakes.grace.edu to learn more about the research mentioned in this episode and discover how you can support healthy lakes and streams in your community.

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.

Join us as we chat with Brian Peterson, owner of Brian Peterson Real Estate and a trusted voice in the housing market in Kosciusko County and northern Indiana. Brian brings years of expertise helping buyers find the home they're looking for, with ample knowledge navigating the unique dynamics encountered with lakefront properties. Explore how the quality of our local lakes—especially factors like water clarity, shoreline maintenance, and overall ecological health—can significantly impact both real estate value and buyer decision-making.

Together with the Lake Doctor hosts, Brian engages a variety of topics surrounding a buyer looking to purchase a piece of lakefront property. From recreational opportunities like boating and swimming to long-term concerns about water quality and erosion, this episode offers a fascinating look at where environmental stewardship and real estate intersect. Whether you're a homeowner, buyer, or simply love your local lake, this conversation will help you see lake life in a whole new light.

Visit lakesgrace.edu to learn more about the research mentioned in this episode and discover how you can support healthy lakes and streams in your community.

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.

Welcome Jessie Kreider, the Program Director at Camp Alexander Mack and a regular volunteer at the Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams. Jessie brings her passion for outdoor education and environmental stewardship to the conversation, sharing stories from her experiences as a program director and her work connecting people with nature. From teaching the importance of freshwater ecosystems to facilitating moments of awe in the outdoors, Jessie reveals how building a relationship with nature can be just as important as learning the science behind it.

We dive into the surprising and sometimes hilarious ways people engage with the environment—yes, even eating some unusual lake life. Jessie and the Lake Doctor hosts reflect on what nature has taught them and how these lessons help foster curiosity and community. This episode is a fun and thoughtful look at how the outdoors can bring us all together.

Visit lakes.grace.edu to learn more about the research mentioned in this episode and discover how you can support healthy lakes and streams in your community.

Watch full episodes and special features from season one of the podcast on our YouTube channel: @KosciuskoLakesKLAS

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.