Best National Association For Interpretation Podcasts (2025)

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Perception in Interpretation: André Copeland 26:01

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10d ago26:01

26:01

André Copeland, Interpretive Programs Manager at Brookfield Zoo Chicago and an NAI Lead Trainer, has been an active NAI member since 2004. He will be a keynote speaker at NAI 2025 in Virginia Beach, addressing perspective and perception in interpretation. André has more than 30 years’ experience working in the zoological field which includes animal…

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NALC Health Benefit Plan 1:08:23

7h ago1:08:23

1:08:23

NALC Health Benefit Plan Director Stephanie Stewart joins the podcast to discuss the Plan, Open Season, and what's new in 2026. Reminder: Open Season dates are Nov. 10 - Dec. 8. Questions about the Plan? Visit nalchbp.org, call 888-636-NALC (6252), or contact your branch's health benefit representative. 00:15:00 - Interview with NALC Health Benefit…

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October 2025 Postal Record 3:00:01

5d ago3:00:01

3:00:01

Listen to the October 2025 edition of The Postal Record. Browse the digital issue here.By youarethecurrentresident

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Emergency Response Team 1:35:40

6d ago1:35:40

1:35:40

NALC's Emergency Response Team (ERT) deploys specially-trained letter carriers to assist other members following traumatic events. Director of Safety and Health Manny Peralta joins the podcast to discuss the ERT. Then, we hear from four branch presidents who have used the ERT to help their members: Sandy Laemmel, President, Detroit, MI Branch 1; Mo…

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Tim Merriman Talks Story on Reflections on Interpretation: What is the Purpose of Heritage Interpretation? 12:57

8d ago12:57

12:57

For more than fifty years, I’ve been asking one question: What is the purpose of heritage interpretation? Early in my career, a few key experiences set me on a path of reflection—a path that has shaped every step of my professional life since. Few of us have the luxury of working in isolation or for ourselves alone. If interpretation is to be meani…

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Interpretive Dispute–S&DCs, Protect Our Letter Carriers Act and a roundtable with Rank-and-File Bargaining Committee Newer Members 1:38:16

13d ago1:38:16

1:38:16

This week's episode discusses a national-level interpretive dispute recently filed by NALC regarding S&DCs (Sorting & Delivery Centers), followed by a look at the Protect Our Letter Carriers Act. Then, we hear from four members of the Branch Leaders group: Kelsey Crosbie, Columbus, OH Branch 78; Linda Johnson, Duluth, MN Branch 114; Veronica Ramire…

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Interpretive Step + a roundtable with Rank-and-File Bargaining Committee Contract Enforcers 1:38:33

21d ago1:38:33

1:38:33

This week dives into two national-level interpretive disputes recently filed by NALC. Then, we hear from four members of the Rank-and-File Bargaining Committee Contract Enforcers group: Yvette Kinard, New York, NY Branch 36; Juan Munoz, Corpus Christi, TX Branch 1259; Eric Porter, Sheboygan, WI Branch 102; Michael Ridgely, Silver Spring, MD Branch …

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Dr. Robert Powell and Dr. Marc J. Stern Talk Story with Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman on Reflections on Interpretation 48:42

23d ago48:42

48:42

Dr. Robert Powell’s research at Clemson University focuses on informal STEM education, interpretation, protected area management, and sustainable tourism. He has led multiple NSF-funded national studies on learning outcomes in parks and environmental education, publishing over 100 peer-reviewed articles. A former U.S. Canoe and Kayak Team member, B…

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Interpretation at Virginia Beach Parks and Rec: Michael Kirschman 26:54

24d ago26:54

26:54

Longtime NAI member Michael Kirschman, director of Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation, joins to discuss Mount Trashmore and other jewels of the city's park system. Virginia Beach Parks and Rec manages more than 290 parks, 7,000 acres, seven large recreation centers, 185 playgrounds, 200 athletic fields, 14 boat launches, a marina, and the Princess…

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Rank-and-File Bargaining Committees + a roundtable with Branch Leader committee members 1:28:24

28d ago1:28:24

1:28:24

By youarethecurrentresident

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New Employee Experience, Retention and Mentoring Program 1:21:58

1M ago1:21:58

1:21:58

This episode breaks down the New Employee Experience, Retention and Mentoring Program (NEERMP)—from its origins to the positive changes it’s brought, to what new carriers can expect as they settle into the job. Watch here. Check out M-02010, a jointly-developed document released by NALC and the Postal Service to answer commonly asked questions abou…

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Celeste Bernardo, Retired NPS Superintendent, Talks Story with Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman 34:48

1M ago34:48

34:48

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Celeste Bernardo, who devoted 35 years to the National Park Service (NPS), building bridges between people, places, and heritage. With a career spanning coastlines, historic neighborhoods, and international cultural exchanges, Celeste is known for her gift of turning partnerships into lasting legacies. As …

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Interpretation and Global Tourism: Sebastian Frankenberger 27:42

1M ago27:42

27:42

Sebastian Frankenberger, president of the World Federation of Tour Guide Associations (WFTGA), joins to talk about the role of interpretation in tourism around the world, and how interpretation organizations and tourism organizations might partner in the future. NAI's Song Stott and Paul Caputo host.…

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A deep dive into Article 8 1:21:19

1M ago1:21:19

1:21:19

In this week's episode of Fight Like Hell, we deep dive into Article 8. Then, we review some scenarios and decide: Is it a gripe? Or is it a grievance? Watch the episode here. Click here for the special edition of The Activist. 00:00:00 – Intro 00:06:47 – Deep dive into Article 8 01:03:05 – LMOU impasse update 01:06:23 – Gripe or Grievance…

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Answering member questions and preparing for collective bargaining 1:21:50

2M ago1:21:50

1:21:50

The latest episode of Fight Like Hell tackles a range of topics submitted by NALC members and includes an update on the ongoing prep for collective bargaining. Watch the episode here.By youarethecurrentresident

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Toby Merriman, MFA, of SIU Center for Virtual Expression, Talks Story about AI with Tim Merriman 39:30

2M ago39:30

39:30

Toby Merriman, MFA, works each day as Assistant Director of Center for Virtual Expression at Southern Illinois University in assisting faculty in understanding how AI, VR and Gamification may improve their teaching and research. Toby grew up with Tim Merriman, his father, at a nature center and actually worked as an interpretive guide at a Dinosaur…

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Interpreting Tragedy from a Personal Perspective: Gaynell Brady 27:50

2M ago27:50

27:50

Gaynell Brady, CIG, is the Owner/Educator at Our Mammy’s. In her role, she develops and implements programs that teach participants about Louisiana African American genealogy and history, using her own family tree. Gaynell holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and a Master of Arts in Museum Studies from Southern University at New Orleans. She joins N…

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Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman Talk Story about ABMC and Training 37:51

2M ago37:51

37:51

Today on Reflections I am talking story with my podcast co-host, Bill Gwaltney, who recently returned from a trip to western Europe to visit friends from his long career with National Park Service and especially with friends he made during his final five years with American Battle Monuments Commission. Born and raised in the Nation’s Capital, Bill …

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Interpretation Down Under: Interpretation Australia 41:27

2M ago41:27

41:27

Representatives from Interpretation Australia—President Sophie Daniels, Vice President Scott Killeen, and John Pastorelli—join to discuss global trends in interpretation, interpretation in Australia, and what's new with Interpretation Australia.By National Association for Interpretation

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JOSN August 2025: School Nurse-Led Health Assessment for Students Experiencing Homelessness: A Quality Improvement Project 12:03

3M ago12:03

12:03

Heide Cygan, Associate Editor of The Journal of School Nursing, interviews author Samantha Starkey to discuss the article, "School Nurse-Led Health Assessment for Students Experiencing Homelessness: A Quality Improvement Project". The article can be found in the JOSN August 2025 Issue (Volume 41, Issue 4). To view the article, click here.…

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Traveling the World by Coordinate Plane: Natalie Teboul 29:27

3M ago29:27

29:27

Natalie Teboul, MFA, MSEd, is a "teacherpreneur" in San Diego, and the inventor of Traveling Miss T.’s Math Maps©. She tutors all grade levels and subjects, and is passionate about creating engaging curriculum, implementing best education practices, and most importantly, shaping tomorrow's thinkers and leaders. When she’s not traveling the world by…

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Interpretation in Adventure Tourism: Outdoor Programs Leader Corian Yandel 31:47

3M ago31:47

31:47

As the Outdoor Programs Leader for Naventure in Florida, Corian Yandel is responsible for overseeing all outdoor recreation activities to ensure that the 350,000 annual visitors who recreate at 11 locations in the Ocala National Forest, have a fun, knowledgeable, and safe time recreating responsibly. Corian has a background in fitness and nutrition…

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Michael Stuckey, CIT, Talks Story with Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merirman on Reflections on Interpretation 42:58

3M ago42:58

42:58

Michael Stuckey had a career of many decades with National Park Service working in both natural and cultural history parks in a variety of roles, but especially in interpretation. He tells his own story well, "Born in Los Angeles and somehow history grabbed me early on. I began to explore how to work with it professionally. Richmond Battlefield in …

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Interpretation of ECGs in Primary Care – Part 2 (common abnormalities in primary care) 9:43

3M ago9:43

9:43

In this podcast, recorded by InnovAiT Podcast Editor Dr Sadiya Ayaz, Dr Abdullah Lashrf, a GP in Birmingham, discusses the common abnormalities seen in general practice. This podcast is also available to view on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CtdyhXYikCs.

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Interpretation of ECGs in Primary Care – Part 1 (the basics) 6:26

3M ago6:26

6:26

In this podcast, recorded by InnovAiT Podcast Editor Dr Sadiya Ayaz, Dr Abdallah Salim, a GP in South London, covers the basics of interpreting ECGs in primary care. This podcast is also available to view on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kkynvvKUuqU.

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Trans First, Interpreter Second: CJ Greco 27:05

4M ago27:05

27:05

CJ Greco (they/she) is a nonbinary transwoman, activist, and naturalist from Chicago, Illinois, who is the guest editor of the current issue of NAI's Legacy magazine, "Interpreting Beyond the Binary." They have been working in informal conservation education for most of their life, starting as a youth volunteer 18 years ago. CJ currently works as t…

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Monique Thompson, CIT, Talks Story with Tim Merriman on Reflections on Interpretation 38:11

4M ago38:11

38:11

Monique Thompson, CIT, is a Restorative Justice practitioner, nature enthusiast, and expert in interpretive education. Her programs inspire community connection and inclusivity, with a focus on environmental and personal well-being. She has been engaged in the education field for over 25 years as an instructor, collaborator, and learner. Early in h…

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Interpreting Music, Culture, and Freedom: New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park 28:30

4M ago28:30

28:30

Storytelling, recordings, and live musical performances provide historical context and universal themes of resistance, struggle, creative self-expression, and freedom with the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park. Rangers Karen Armagost and Jade Perdue share the story with NAI's Song Stott and Paul Caputo.…

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Toby Merriman, Matt Villamaino, Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman Talk Story about AI in Interpretation 45:47

4M ago45:47

45:47

Matt Villamaino, Bill Gwaltney, Toby Merriman, and Tim Merriman gather on Zoom to explore the role of Artificial Intelligence in heritage interpretation—with a focus on authenticity, ethics, and emerging opportunities. Toby Merriman, MFA, serves as Assistant Director of the Center for Virtual Expression at Southern Illinois University, where he sup…

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Art Museum Interpretation: Emily Agricola Holtrop 33:09

5M ago33:09

33:09

Emily Agricola Holtrop of the Cincinnati Art Museum discusses the role of interpretation interpreting art. This episode delves into managing a team of more than 60 volunteers and navigating a turbulent climate, among much else. Emily joins NAI's Heather Manier and Madison Hyatt.By National Association for Interpretation

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Marc Blackburn, NPS Historian and Interpreter, Joins Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman on Reflections on Interpretation! 33:27

5M ago33:27

33:27

Born and raised in California, Marc Blackburn’s love of history led him to the Pacific Northwest, where he earned a B.A. in history from the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, Washington. Inspired by a passion for teaching and the complexities of the American experience, he pursued graduate work at Temple University in Philadelphia. There, under …

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Live from Morocco! 53:22

5M ago53:22

53:22

Ride along with interpreters who participated in NAI's international un-conference in Morocco, from the streets of Marrakech to the High Atlas Mountains to the Sahara Desert! NAI's Paul Caputo checks in with participants over the course of six days from NAI's first event on the African continent.By National Association for Interpretation

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Matt Villamaino Joins Tim Merriman and Bill Gwaltney Today on Reflections on Interpretation 49:44

5M ago49:44

49:44

Matt Villamaino has worked in the interpretive field for over 15 years, not counting the dinosaur museum he and a friend started in his basement at age 8. He currently works for the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation as the Regional Interpretive Coordinator for the Central Region. He is a Certified Interpretive Trainer, Planner…

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Charlotte Giraudo, Interpretation Program Manager at ABMC 23:52

5M ago23:52

23:52

In this episode, we speak with Charlotte Giraudo, Interpretation Program Manager at the American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC). As the steward of 57 overseas commemorative cemeteries and memorials, ABMC honors the service, achievements, and sacrifice of U.S. armed forces. Charlotte shares the profound responsibility of interpreting these globa…

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JOSN June 2025: Adolescent Women's Perspectives on Barriers and Facilitators to High School Bathroom Use 13:38

6M ago13:38

13:38

Mayumi Willgerodt, editor of The Journal of School Nursing, interviews author Elissa Allen to discuss the article, "Adolescent Women's Perspectives on Barriers and Facilitators to High School Bathroom Use". The article can be found in the JOSN June 2025 Issue (Volume 41, Issue 3). To view the article, click here.…

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David Larsen's Legacy for Interpretive Training 1:10:02

6M ago1:10:02

1:10:02

David Larsen (1960-2011) was a National Park Service Interpretive Ranger who became the Manager of Interpretive Training with National Park Service (NPS) at The Mather Employee Development Center. After many years as a frontline interpreter at sites such as the the Vietnam Memorial and Harper's Ferry National Historic Park, David stepped up to beco…

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Interpretive Planning, Design, and the Wayside Olympics: Jim Buchholz 24:37

6M ago24:37

24:37

Jim Buchholz, director of the Schmeeckle Reserve at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, joins to discuss interpretive planning, exhibit design, and his popular recurring NAI Conference session, the Wayside Olympics. He is the co-author of several publications, most notably Signs, Trails, And Wayside Exhibits: Connecting People And Places, pa…

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Tim Merriman is interviewed by Bill Gwaltney about the HEART Train the Trainers Program 22:43

6M ago22:43

22:43

Today Tim Merriman is interviewed by Bill Gwaltney about the HEART Train the Trainers Program. This innovative new training program for the fundamentals of the interpretive approach to communication began in October of 2024 and is now being used by many experienced trainers as a more affordable approach to training new hires, seasonal guides, docen…

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Collaboration at ZooTampa 24:25

6M ago24:25

24:25

ZooTampa applies behavioral research to develop interpretive programs co-led by Guest Engagement Guides and Animal Care Staff. Shelly Drummond and Kerry Gray discuss with Song Stott and Paul Caputo how the process improves guest experiences.By National Association for Interpretation

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Toby Merriman Talks Story about Artificial Intelligence with Interpretive Trainers 1:09:08

7M ago1:09:08

1:09:08

Toby Merriman is the Acting Director of Center for Virtual Expression at Southern Illinois University (SIU). He and his staff assist faculty at SIU in the uses of Artificial Intelligence, Virtual Reality and Gamification in teaching university students, who so readily employ these new tools. Join Monique Thompson, Clark Hancock, Rosemary Prince, An…

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Three Decades as a Park Naturalist: Howard Aprill 34:23

7M ago34:23

34:23

Howard Aprill has had a storied career as a park naturalist with Wehr Nature Center in Milwaukee. He shares insights gleaned from nearly 30 years in the field, not to mention a lifetime in a family of interpretation royalty, with Heather Manier and Paul Caputo.By National Association for Interpretation

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Trainers Talk Story on Reflections on Interpretation with Tim Merriman and Bill Gwaltney 1:15:22

7M ago1:15:22

1:15:22

Interpretive Trainers are our guests this week on Reflections on Interpretation: Talking Story with Guides and Interpreters. Karin Hostetter, Robert Smith, Jamie Hubert, Clark Hancock, Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman discuss the economic changes affecting training, the challenges of training large numbers of docents, seasonal workers and frontline s…

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Dialogic Nature Guiding: Griffin Bray 23:31

7M ago23:31

23:31

Griffin Bray, Extension Educator at the University of Minnesota Extension, is a member of NAI's Young Professionals Council who employs dialogic interpretation in nature guiding. He joins to discuss with NAI's Heather Manier and Paul Caputo.By National Association for Interpretation

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NPS (former) Director Bob Stanton Talks Story with Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman 50:06

8M ago50:06

50:06

With nearly four decades of experience with the National Park Service (NPS), Robert G. Stanton has an unmatched depth of experience about the Agency from top to bottom. Born in Fort Worth, Texas, Robert Stanton’s experience growing up in an African American community and the need to deal with Race and Racism brought a special focus to his life and …

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Making a Splash as a New Interpreter: Dan Jenkins 25:57

8M ago25:57

25:57

Dan Jenkins is just two years into his career with Cleveland Metroparks, but he's making his mark with an ambitious webcam program, presenting a session at his first NAI Conference, and winning NAI's annual 5K fun run. Dan joins NAI's Paul Caputo and Song Stott.By National Association for Interpretation

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JOSN April 2025: National Association of School Nurses Position Statements 13:04

8M ago13:04

13:04

Martha Dewey Bergren, editor of The Journal of School Nursing, interviews authors Connie Griffin and Kate King to discuss the following NASN Position Statements: "Do Not Attempt Resuscitation (Orders) in School" (Link to article), "School-Sponsored Before, After, and Extended School Year/Out of School Time Programs" (Link to article), and "Supervis…

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Connie Rudd, Former NPS Interpreter and Superintendent Talks Story with Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman 40:45

8M ago40:45

40:45

Born during a snowstorm in Ft. Riley, Kansas, Connie's adventurous spirit was kindled from the start. This early connection to winter led to a passion for sled dog racing with her purebred Samoyed team, a venture she pursued for 20 years across the United States. Raised in Athens, Ohio, Connie developed a love for reading that sparked her imaginati…

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Arbitration Process & HELL NO! to Dismantling USPS 51:38

8M ago51:38

51:38

In this episode of Fight Like Hell!, we take a look at the arbitration process and discuss the upcoming rallies being organized by branches across the country on Sunday, March 23. Our jobs, our service and the entire Postal Service are on the line. We need everyone’s help as we fight like hell against these attacks. Together, we will send a loud, c…

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Jennifer Chapman: Interpretation within Disney World’s Epcot Animal Experiences at Walt Disney World Resort 27:58

8M ago27:58

27:58

Join Paul and Song with guest Jennifer Chapman, Education Manager with Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment, as she discusses front-line interpreter daily warm-up exercises and general interpretation within Epcot Animal Experiences at Walt Disney World Resort.By National Association for Interpretation

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John Steinle, Museum Curator and Living History Specialist, Talks Story with Bill Gwaltney and Tim Merriman 45:38

8M ago45:38

45:38

John Steinle, originally from Hamilton, Ohio, earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Dayton. After several years as a commercial artist, he switched careers to history. He obtained a master’s degree in Museum and Archival Management from Wright State University and worked as a Curator and Archivist at the Cincinnati Art Museum and …