In this episode of Ramble & Mosey, we explore the intersection of land banks, vacant property revitalization, and urban conservation in Michigan. Featuring Janell O’Keefe, Associate Director for Technical Assistance at the Center for Community Progress, and Mike Kelly, Great Lakes Director for the Conservation Fund, our conversation discusses how land banks are repurposing vacant properties and how conservation organizations are bringing nature and recreation back into urban spaces.

This episode highlights how partnerships and state-level support are helping transform neglected land into thriving community assets, showcasing what’s possible when conservation and community development work together.

Featuring:

Janell O’Keefe - Associate Director for Technical Assistance, Center for Community Progress

Mike Kelly - Great Lakes Director, The Conservation Fund

Episode Links:

Urban Conservation and Community Fellowship Program

National Land Bank Map

2026 Reclaiming Vacant Properties Conference

The Conservation Fund

Center for Community Progress

In this episode of Ramble & Mosey, we’re joined by Megan Motil of Parallel Solutions for an inside look at the inner workings of Michigan’s land conservation community. From strategic planning to partnership building, Megan shares how organizations collaborate behind the scenes to protect land, water, and natural resources for the long haul.

We discuss the challenges and opportunities facing conservation groups today, from funding and capacity to adapting to a changing climate, and explore how thoughtful systems and relationships are shaping the future of conservation. 

FEATURING:
Megan Motil – Principal, Parallel Solutions

EPISODE LINKS:
Parallel Solutions

In this episode of Ramble & Mosey, we’re joined by Megan Motil of Parallel Solutions for an inside look at the inner workings of Michigan’s land conservation community. From strategic planning to partnership building, Megan shares how organizations collaborate behind the scenes to protect land, water, and natural resources for the long haul.

We discuss the challenges and opportunities facing conservation groups today, from funding and capacity to adapting to a changing climate, and explore how thoughtful systems and relationships are shaping the future of conservation. 

Episode Links:

Parallel Solutions

In this episode of Ramble & Mosey, we sit down with Stacy Bare of Friends of Grand Rapids Parks, Julie Clark of TART Trails, and Gary Vernon of Oz Trails Bike Park to explore how trails shape both people and places. From Northwest Arkansas to Michigan, they share stories of community collaboration, the balancing act of recreation and conservation, and the lessons learned from building trails that honor the landscape.

We explore how public support, thoughtful design, and long-term stewardship can create trail systems that not only invite adventure but also strengthen our connection to the places we love.

Episode Links

OZ Trails Bike Park

TART Trails

Friends of Grand Rapids Parks

In this episode of Ramble & Mosey, we welcome Phil Britton of Fresh Systems LLC and Vaughn Rodriguez of Innovate Marquette to dig into how outdoor recreation and conservation come together in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. We unpack the story of the Orion Project (Outdoor Recreation Innovation Action Network) and its role in growing the region’s outdoor economy.

Phil and Vaughn share how they’re tackling challenges like remote geography and climate change while also seizing opportunities for sustainable growth. Along the way, we explore how community engagement, regional innovation, and conservation can thrive alongside increased tourism. Listen here, or on your favorite podcast platform. 

Episode Links:

• Fresh Systems LLC
• Innovate Marquette
• ORIAN Project
• U.P. Outdoor Summit
• Michigan Outdoor Summit
• Growth Strategy for the Central UP - TIP Strategies
• Electrified Trails in Central UP - UPland

In this episode of Ramble & Mosey, we're joined by MaryKay O’Donnell from the Land Trust Alliance and special guest Megan Motil from Parallel Solutions to unpack the role land conservancies play in conservation across Michigan.

We trace the history of land conservancies, explore how they differ from other conservation organizations, and highlight innovative programs that protect land and water for future generations. The conversation touches on everything from successful community-centered projects to evolving funding models and the challenges of navigating shifting political landscapes.

This episode offers a look at the evolving identity of land conservancies and their partnerships that work together to protect the places we all love.

Episode Links

Land Trust Alliance

Parallel Solutions

Open to All: A Disability Inclusion Guide for Land Trusts

In this episode of Ramble and Mosey, we sit down with guests Qing Tiffany and Dan Cooke to explore how outdoor spaces in the Detroit region connect across generations. Qing shares her journey from a pre-med path to conservation work with Six Rivers Land Conservancy, and her current focus on reducing food waste through the nonprofit Make Food Not Waste. Dan, a practicing attorney and founder of Expedition Detroit, champions outdoor recreation and conservation, viewing Detroit’s natural spaces as an often-overlooked gem.

Together, we discuss the history of the region, the barriers minority communities face in accessing the outdoors, available resources, and why authentic communication is key to making meaningful change.

Episode Links

https://www.expeditiondetroit.com/

https://makefoodnotwaste.org/

https://www.sixriversrlc.org/

In this episode, we explore the healing power of nature in supporting youth mental health and resilience with Garrett Dempsey and Amanda Westra.

Garrett shares how Detroit Outdoors creates inclusive opportunities for young people, especially in communities of color, through a gear library, leadership training, and partnerships.

Amanda highlights how the Chill Foundation uses of boardsports and outdoor activities to help youth heal from developmental and ancestral trauma. Together, they reveal how nature can break barriers, foster bravery, and transform lives.

Featuring

Garret Dempsey, Executive Director, Detroit Outdoors

Amanda Westra - Senior Program Manager, Chill Foundation

Episode Links

Detroit Outdoors

Chill Foundation

@outdoorsdetroit

@chillfoundation

In this episode, we welcome Ian Solomon, a multifaceted individual working passionately in Detroit's green spaces. Ian discusses his varied roles, including his work with the Detroit Parks Coalition, his artistic pursuits, and his community organization, Amplify Outside. He emphasizes the importance of bridging Detroiters with Michigan's natural spaces while addressing environmental justice.

Ian also shares insights from his artist residencies and his new coalition, Black Brown and Green, which fosters community among black and brown individuals interested in environmental advocacy. The discussion highlights Detroit's unique urban parks, the resilience of its community, and the collaborative efforts to dismantle the barriers that separate city and suburb.

Featuring

Ian Solomon - Communications & Engagement Manager, Detroit Parks Coalition, Founder, Amplify Outside

Episode Links

Detroit Parks Coalition

@amplifyoutside

Black to the Land Coalition

In this episode, Anne Fleming from Little Traverse Conservancy, Cece Kirkwood, and Pitt Grewe from AllTrails join us to discuss the importance of trails for community engagement and conservation in Michigan.

We explore the tools AllTrails offers to enhance outdoor experiences, including discoverability, planning, and on-trail navigation. Little Traverse Conservancy, with a rich history and a focus on environmental education, uses trails to foster community engagement and accessibility. The conversation highlights the Public Lands Program by AllTrails that helps land managers keep trail information accurate and up-to-date, aiding in user preparedness and safety.

We also discuss strategies for introducing new users to outdoor activities, emphasizing land stewardship and accessibility. The episode shares insights into Little Traverse Conservancy’s initiatives for universal access and its collaborations with local businesses and communities.

Links & Resources

AllTrails

AllTrails Public Lands Program

Little Traverse Conservancy