Leaving a Lasting Legacy in The Big Apple Through a Culture of Care — Episode 098

When this episode airs, we will be exactly a week away from the
2021 NRPA Annual Conference, taking place both virtually and in
Nashville, Tennessee. It’s going to be three dynamic days of
learning, networking, inspiring conversation and so much more,
and I can’t wait until things get started next Tuesday. In the
meantime, I’m honored to chat with someone today who I have been
meaning to invite on the podcast for a while now.


Mitchell Silver recently wrapped up a seven-year tenure as parks
commissioner for the New York City Department of Parks and
Recreation, and he is an award-winning planner with more than 35
years of experience. And as of August, he is principal and vice
president of urban planning for McAdams, where he is responsible
for providing advisory services in urban planning, land-use,
parks and public space planning with an emphasis on diversity,
equity and inclusion. 


Simply put, Silver is a community builder and internationally
recognized leader who has made invaluable contributions to the
field of parks and recreation, and I’m thrilled to welcome him
today to chat about his career, and possibly get a sneak peek at
his keynote presentation on day two of the NRPA Annual Conference
next week.


Tune in to the full episode below to learn more about Silver, his
extensive career and the importance of creating a culture of
care. You’ll also learn:


How Silver’s background in planning helped redefine NYC
Parks, especially in service of equity.


Why he thinks parks are the heart of a city.


What he’s done right throughout his career, and what he may
have done differently.


How he reassured his staff that the culture he created will
continue beyond him serving as commissioner.


Why parks and recreation should be part of a city’s
healthcare system, and more!