For the Love of Parks | Season Two | Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy

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PODCAST SERIES

Welcome to Season Two of For the Love of Parks!

We’re thrilled to bring you a fresh new season of stories from the heart of Pittsburgh’s parks—now bigger, bolder, and on video for the first time. Join host Natalie Bencivenga as we go behind the scenes with the people shaping our city’s green spaces.

This season explores the art and impact of park gardening, connects the history and future of Hays Woods Park, and highlights how accessibility is guiding the next chapter of our work—aligned with the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy’s Five-Year Strategic Plan.

Dig in and enjoy the series!

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SEASON 2 (2025)

EPISODE ONE: PART ONE

Hays Woods: From Coal Mines to Conservation – Part I Featuring Jared Belsky and Kate St. John

Did you know Hays Woods was once slated to become the site of a racetrack and casino? Explore the fascinating history of Pittsburgh’s largest urban forest and the passionate community members who fought to protect its 626 acres of valleys, meadows, and streams—now a vital haven for migrating birds and countless native species.

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EPISODE ONE: PART TWO

Hays Woods: From Coal Mines to Conservation – Part II Featuring Jared Belsky and Kate St. John

After exploring the storied past of Hays Woods Park, this episode turns to its bright future. Discover how the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy, community partners, and dedicated volunteers are restoring this incredible landscape—tackling invasive species, rebuilding habitats, and shaping a thriving urban forest for generations to come. Tune in to learn how you can get involved and what’s next for Hays Woods Park.

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EPISODE TWO

The People Behind the Petals Featuring Jaci Bruschi and Angela Yuele

Get a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to keep our parks blooming all year round, from careful ecological planning to boots-on-the-ground morale. Learn why fostering relationships with park visitors is just as important as caring for park gardens and how you can have more of a green thumb in your own backyard. We hope you enjoy these notes from the garden.

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EPISODE THREE

Built for the Future: Accessible Park Spaces Featuring Ross Chapman and Leah Northrop

Featuring Ross Chapman, Parks Conservancy Chief of Operations, and Leah Northrop, parent and accessibility advocate, highlighting recent accessibility improvements like the new Sensory Nature Trail and what's ahead for creating more inclusive park spaces.

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LET'S GET SOCIAL! Spread the word about "For the Love of Parks"

Are you enjoying "For the Love of Parks?" Now is the time to spread the word to your family, friends, loved ones, colleagues, or even your fellow park visitors about this original series that celebrates Pittsburgh's parks and green spaces.

Please select the link below to access our media kit, including our press release and an overview of the original series.

MEDIA KIT

If you'd like to speak further with our team regarding this new series, please contact Alana Wenk, Director of Marketing & Communications, at awenk@pittsburghparks.org.

DO YOU HAVE

A STORY TO SHARE?

Email us at awenk@pittsburghparks.org