Beyond the Park Bench: A PRPS Emerging Leaders Podcast

Powered by Play: A Look at the 2026 PRPS Conference

In this episode of Beyond the Park Bench: A PRPS Leadership Podcast, Tyler sits down with Matt and Ally, co-chairs of the 2026 PRPS Annual Conference, to discuss everything that goes into planning Pennsylvania’s largest gathering of parks and recreation professionals. Taking place March 24–27, 2026 at Spooky Nook Sports in Manheim, PA, the PRPS Annual Conference & Expo brings together professionals from across the state for education, networking, and inspiration. Matt and Ally share a behind-the-scenes look at the months of planning, collaboration, and volunteer leadership required to make the conference possible each year. They also talk about the importance of professional involvement, how volunteering with PRPS can help you grow as a leader, and practical ways professionals at any stage of their career can get more engaged with the organization. Whether you’re preparing to attend your first PRPS conference or you’ve been attending for decades, this episode offers helpful insight into what makes the conference such a valuable experience for the parks and recreation profession. Key Topics Discussed ✅ The planning process behind the 2026 PRPS Annual Conference & Expo ✅ How Matt and Ally balance their professional roles with PRPS volunteer leadership ✅ Ways parks and recreation professionals can get involved with PRPS committees and leadership opportunities ✅ Highlights and things to look forward to at the 2026 conference at Spooky Nook ✅ Advice for first-time attendees and seasoned professionals attending the conference

Building Better Communities with Lance Welliver

In this episode of Beyond the Park Bench: A PRPS Leadership Podcast, we sit down with Lance Welliver, Director of Butler County Parks and Recreation, to discuss what led his department to be recognized as the PRPS Agency of the Year. Lance shares how Butler County’s innovative programs, strong community partnerships, and commitment to service have set a new standard for excellence in parks and recreation across Pennsylvania. We also explore how the county supports local municipalities through grant programs and technical assistance—helping communities enhance recreation opportunities for residents. Lance reflects on his own professional journey, from early internships to leading an award-winning department, offering valuable insights into leadership, teamwork, and community impact. Key Topics Discussed: ✅ What made Butler County Parks and Recreation the PRPS Agency of the Year ✅ How the county assists municipalities through local grant programs and collaboration ✅ The importance of innovation and partnership in public recreation success ✅ Lance’s career journey—from internships to directing an award-winning department ✅ Leadership lessons and advice for parks and recreation professionals at every stage

PRPS University with Judy Houck

In this episode of Beyond the Park Bench: A PRPS Leadership Podcast, we sit down with Judy Houck, Director of Parks for the Township of Spring, to discuss the upcoming PRPS Conference at the Hershey Lodge from March 16th to March 19th 2025. With over 50 educational sessions, an expansive expo hall, and endless networking opportunities, this event is a must-attend for parks and recreation professionals. Judy, a PRPS Conference veteran who attended her first conference in 1990 and has only missed two since, shares her insights on what makes this event so impactful. From professional growth to the latest industry trends, Judy highlights why PRPS is a game-changer for parks and recreation professionals at all stages of their careers. Key Topics Discussed: ✅ Judy’s career journey in parks and recreation and her leadership in the Township of Spring ✅ Why the PRPS Conference is a must-attend event for professionals in the field as well as her advice to first-time attendees ✅ What to expect at this year’s conference, including how the conference has evolved to meet the needs of parks and recreation professionals

Setting the Standard: The CAPRA Journey

In this episode of Beyond the Park Bench, we sit down with Monica Tierney, who leads the first-ever CAPRA-accredited park and recreation agency in Pennsylvania! Monica shares her experience navigating the rigorous accreditation process through the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) and what it took to achieve this milestone. This episode showcases: ✅ What CAPRA accreditation is and why it matters ✅ The biggest challenges and wins along the journey of accreditation ✅ Key lessons for agencies considering accreditation ✅ How the process strengthened her department and improved services If you’re curious about elevating your agency’s standards, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.

Climbing the Rec Ladder with Sarah Prebis

In this episode of Beyond the Park Bench, we sit down with Sarah Prebis, the Director of Upper Gwynedd Township, to explore her journey in the field of parks and recreation. Sarah shares her story—how she got started, the challenges she faced along the way, and what ultimately led her to take the next step into a parks and recreation director role. Listeners will gain insight into: ✅ The career path from entry-level recreation to director ✅ How to recognize when it's the right time to take on more responsibility ✅ How to develop and expand a team in a new place ✅ Advice for emerging professionals looking to grow in the field Whether you’re just starting your career or eyeing your next big opportunity, Sarah’s experience and wisdom will leave you inspired and ready to take action!