American Conservation Experience Podcast

Following a natural disaster when the initial sirens fade, the long road to recovery begins. In this episode, we dive into how conservation corps like ACE are uniquely equipped for the long-haul work of disaster recovery. ACE Division Director Nikki Jones and National Director of Crew Programs Adam Scherm share how ACE has helped those in need. From the front lines of Hurricane Helene in Asheville...

In this episode of the American Conservation Experience Podcast, host Dave Bastian sits down with ACE CEO Laura Herrin and former ACE Board Chair Sarah Miggins to discuss their journeys, their roles within ACE, and their vision for the organization. Laura and Sarah share compelling stories of the impact ACE has had on conservation efforts across the country and its unique approach to workforce dev...

In Episode 6 of the American Conservation Experience Podcast, hosts Elyse Cogburn and Dave Bastian speak with Jordy Rhea and Lily Sporleder, two dedicated staff members from the ACE's CREW program. Learn what it's like to lead conservation crews on intensive 8-day hitches, balancing safety, teaching new members, and experiencing transformative impact while building trails and restoring natural hab...

In this episode, host Dave Bastian talks with ACE staff members Caroline Canter and Keean Ruane—who share their backgrounds in guiding young adults into the backcountry and watching them transform through these experiences. Together, they explore what makes backcountry hitches such uniquely powerful experiences. From the joy of living immersed in wild places to the personal breakthroughs that happ...

In this episode of American Conservation Experience, host Elyse Cogburn explores the power of conservation and community with guests Silas Patten and Ellen Bley. Together, they reflect on how caring for public lands is more than a career—it’s a shared calling to make an impact on the outdoor spaces that mean so much to us all.  Silas, an ACE EPIC member serving with the Bureau of Land Management,...

In this episode of American Conservation Experience, hosts Elyse Cogburn and Dave Bastian talk about the ACE EPIC program's impact with alumni Evan Williams and Jeanine Hasty. Evan shares his journey from a naturalist at Delaware State Parks to his role as the Expeditions Director at UrbanPromise, emphasizing the joy and opportunities in outdoor recreation and conservation. Jeanine discusses her t...

In this episode of the American Conservation Experience, host Elyse Cogburn discusses ACE's Crew Program with Adam Scherm, ACE's National Director of Crew Programs, and Kate Sutcliffe, ACE alumna and board member. They delve into the structure and operations of conservation crews, the diverse environmental projects undertaken, and the personal growth and career paths inspired by participation in A...

Welcome to the first episode of the American Conservation Experience (ACE) podcast. Join your hosts, staff members Elyse Cogburn and Dave Bastian, as they introduce you to our organization, its mission, and the incredible work our corps members do on public lands across the country. In this episode, we'll dive into the origins of ACE, founded in Flagstaff, Arizona, in 2004, as well as the overall...

Our national parks, forests, and public lands are more than just iconic American landscapes—they’re part of our country’s legacy and require care and attention for future generations. Across the country, hard-working young adults are stepping up to lend a hand. In this podcast, hosts Dave Bastian and Elyse Cogburn take you into the field with American Conservation Experience (ACE), a leading nonpr...