Lifeguard Shortage? What Lifeguard Shortage? — Episode 033

On today’s episode, we’re talking about the need for parks and
recreation to adapt to younger generations and a changing
society. We’re joined by Mark Foote, the aquatics superintendent
for the City of Chandler Parks and Recreation in Arizona — who
you may recognize from one of our past episodes, “What Are Your
Park and Rec Pet Peeves?”


Mark discusses why he thinks it’s especially important in parks
and recreation to be able to change the approach to certain
things, like hiring, to attract and retain different generations
— specifically Millennials and Gen Z. We also explore the current
claims about a lifeguard shortage, and why Mark believes that
there actually isn’t a lifeguard shortage, at all (he may just
convince you, too).


Tune in below to find out what sparked Mark’s passion for parks
and recreation, and what things have kept him engaged in this
field since his very first aquatics job at the age of 17. You’ll
also hear some simple things that his agency has done to attract
and retain an incredible staff, as well as create the culture of
a big, happy family.


You won't want to miss Mark’s thoughts on the “Chick-fil-A model”
and how a few very small things can make all the difference in an
organization’s culture.