On today’s episode of Open Space Radio, we’re excited to chat with someone very influential in the outdoor recreation industry who is doing a ton of good work to raise awareness about protecting our environment. Not only that, but he is also a leader when it comes to making the outdoors more equitable and accessible.

José Gonzáles is the founder of Latino Outdoors, an organization working to bridge the gap and create more inclusive and accessible outdoor experiences and opportunities for Latino Communities. He also currently serves as the equity officer at East Bay Regional Park District in Oakland, California.

And, if you’re not following him on Instagram, José makes some of the best memes and social media content around.

Tune in to our full conversation below to learn more about José and all the good work he and his organizations are contributing to. You’ll also learn:

• How we can learn a lot about leadership from mycelium networks (the way trees communicate with each other via an underground network of fungi)
• What inspired José to start Latino Outdoors and how the organization is working to bridge the gap and support Latino communities
• What cultural relevance means in parks and recreation and how it’s being incorporated into programs
• What current challenges and opportunities exist when it comes to making the outdoors more equitable, inclusive and accessible
• What exactly it means to be a part of a "thriving meadow"
• And a whole lot more!

Related Links:

• Latino Outdoors
• East Bay Regional Park District
• Follow José on Instagram
• Outdoorist Oath
• Hispanic Professionals in Parks and Recreation
• Othering & Belonging Institute

Have feedback about this episode or Open Space Radio overall? Share it with us!

If you enjoyed this episode or learned something that might help you make a positive impact in your community, please consider donating to NRPA to not only support our storytelling efforts, but also our mission to advance parks, recreation and conservation efforts that enhance the quality of life for all at nrpa.org/donate.