Shaping the Future With Next Practices in Parks and Recreation — Episode 107

I am so excited for today’s episode for a few reasons. One, I’m
always excited when I get to have a wonderful conversation for an
episode of Open Space Radio. Two, I really enjoy learning about
the innovative things happening in parks and recreation that are
helping to create stronger, healthier, more resilient
communities. And three, I’m joined by one of my all-time favorite
guests of the show today, Neelay Bhatt.


Neelay is Vice President and Principal of PROS Consulting, and he
recently published an article in Parks & Recreation magazine
titled, “Next Practices for the Post-Pandemic 2020s.” While
Neelay always seems to have his finger on the pulse of what’s
coming up in parks and recreation, it was his distinction of the
words “next practices,” as opposed to “best practices,” that
inspired me to invite him on today’s episode.


This idea of reframing the use of the phrase “best practices” has
been swirling around in my own head for a bit, and our friend
Marissa Moravec of the Let’s Talk Parks podcast recently did an
episode with Neelay’s colleague, Jason Elissalde, to talk about
this and how best practices are rooted in the past and don’t
leave much room for the idea that we can always do better.


On this episode, Neelay further explains some of the next
practices to be aware of and the roles they will play in how park
and recreation professionals serve their communities. Tune in to
the full episode below to learn what the future of parks and
recreation may look like in terms of programming, placemaking,
financing and more. You’ll also learn:


The difference between park and recreation professionals
providing an offering vs. an experience.

How park and recreation professionals can ensure they are
prioritizing people and creating true belonging.

What sport may be coming to the U.S. and becoming part of
your programming sooner than you think.

Why we should continue telling our park and recreation story
at every opportunity.

How Neelay’s grandmother (Dadu) impacted his life and
inspired him to be the person he is today, and so much more!