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48. Nature, Neuroscience, and Burnout: How Parks Heal Our Brains with Lance Burdett
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What happens inside the brain when we step into a park, hear birdsong, or simply look at a tree? And what does this mean not just for the public, but for the people who work in parks every day?
In this episode of PodParks, host Maria Burnett speaks with Lance Burdett, former national crisis negotiator for the New Zealand Police and now a leading specialist in resilience, stress, and brain health. Drawing on neuroscience, brain-imaging research, and decades of experience in high-pressure environments, Lance explains why nature calms the amygdala, how diversity in landscapes supports neuroplasticity, and why even 15 minutes outdoors can reset our stress systems.
But this conversation goes further than the benefits of parks for communities. Together, Maria and Lance explore the wellbeing of the parks workforce itself: a passionate, often under-resourced group at high risk of burnout. Lance breaks down practical, evidence-based habits that park professionals can use to protect their mental health, boost cognitive clarity, and stay grounded in a demanding sector.
Highlights include:
- How natural environments calm the fight-or-flight system
- Why sensory stimulation from nature boosts cognitive function
- The difference between burnout and physical fatigue, and why thinking is the real danger zone
- Tangible, science-backed practices for lowering cortisol and improving sleep
- Why planners must prioritise green access in urban development
- How leaders can support mentally healthy workplaces in the parks sector
Whether you’re a ranger, planner, designer, manager, volunteer, or someone passionate about how parks shape wellbeing, this episode offers both brain science and grounded, practical tools to help you thrive in your work and life.
Featured Guests
Lance Burdett, General Export Manager, WARN International
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Or if you’d like to share your perspectives or stories about this episode, or contact us for any reason, you can email Maria Burnett (host) and the team at [email protected].
About PodParks
PodParks is the official podcast of World Urban Parks. Hosted by Maria Burnett, each episode shares real stories and bold ideas from the people making parks, public space, and urban nature more inclusive, innovative, and essential.
🎙️ Meet the PodParks Team
Maria Burnett | Luis Romahn | Vitoria Martín Delgado | Vladimir Yañez Huehpa| Cynthia Hernández Martínez| Boris Solis
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