On this episode: Dana Mintzer Leman, Zander Leman, and Robin Bear co-produce a fantastic, superb and conversational interview with me In Person for Episode #322 of the podcast. This is Dana's eighth time, Zander's fifth time, and Robin's third time on the show; and we recorded this super special birthday episode at Ledges State Park in Madrid, IA (Ledges is one of my favorite Iowa State Parks!!!)

This episode of the podcast involves:

1. Me talking about/giving commentary on all of the parts of Ledges we went to and this can be divided into five parts:

a. Main entrance/Welcome Center area/Amphitheater

b. Oak Woods Picnic and Shelter Area. During this part, we talk about the special Birthday Picnic Luncheon that Dana and Robin prepared and put together for my birthday that the four of us enjoyed.

c. Lost Lake Trail

d. Lower Ledges area including the Fritz Henning shelter

e. Canyon Drive/Peas Creek area including the CCC Stone Arch Bridge.

2. There are 3 or 4 moments in the podcast where Robin and Zander asked me questions. And Dana, Zander, & Robin provide commentary at various moments throughout the show.

a. During the Lost Lake Trail segment, Robin asks me "How did you become interested in state parks and nature?

b. During the Lower Ledges segment, Robin asks me three questions

What obstacles have you dealt with in your life and because of these obstacles what advice can you give others?

What would you say are your sources that enable you to be so knowledgeable? If someone wants to obtain knowledge about the Iowa State Parks system, what sources would you recommend?

Talk about your wish list, what's at the top of your wish list for another state park you have never been to in Iowa?

At the end of the Lower Ledges part, Zander asks me what my plans are for making 51 special?

This episode of the podcast was recorded on Sunday October 19, 2025 and it runs 1 hour and 11 minutes long. Our opening and closing theme music is provided by Oleg Kyrylkovv courtesy of Pixabay. Funding for this podcast is provided by RandomKid, Lisa Krain, and Wendi Roush. Enjoy!