Quilting, Storytelling & Stewardship with Brooke Bauman of the National Park Service

In this episode, I’m joined by Brooke Bauman, a communications specialist with the National Park Service (NPS). Brooke works in the Water Resources Division, supporting more than 430 park sites across the country — not just the big-name national parks, but also national seashores, monuments, recreation areas, and more.Her role? Helping scientists translate complex research about lakes, rivers, groundwater, and marine ecosystems into stories that everyday visitors can actually understand. In other words, she helps make the science behind our parks accessible and meaningful.And here’s what makes this conversation extra special for us: Brooke is also a quilter. She learned from her grandmother, an incredible maker who passed down both skills and stories. From family reunions at Rocky Mountain National Park to quilts inspired by Alaska wildlife, Brooke’s story beautifully weaves together creativity, patience, family tradition, and conservation.In This EpisodeWe talk about:What science communication inside the National Park Service actually looks likeThe surprising scope of the 430+ sites in the NPS systemHow storytelling deepens our connection to parksLeave No Trace principles and how small habits protect big landscapesThe parallels between quilting and nature (patience, seam ripping, and accepting what’s out of your control)Junior Ranger memories — and how kids can still participate todayWays creatives can engage in conservationHiking with quilts and photographing them in natural lightPlus, we wrap with a rapid-fire round: sunrise vs. sunset, favorite park smells (hello petrichor), classic PB&J trail snacks, and machine vs. hand quilting.Resources MentionedNational Park Service: https://www.nps.govFind Your Park tool: https://www.nps.gov/findaparkJunior Ranger Program (in-person + virtual): https://www.nps.gov/kids/junior-rangers.htmVolunteer Opportunities: https://www.nps.gov/getinvolved/volunteer.htmArtists-in-Residence Program: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/arts/air.htmNational Park Foundation: https://www.nationalparks.orgYou can also find individual park social media accounts through each park’s page at nps.gov.Want to Blend Quilting + Adventure?If this episode sparked something in you — maybe a desire to hike with a quilt, stitch inspired by landscapes, or slow down and notice the details — you’re going to love Quilt Scouts.Quilt Scouts is an online membership for adventurous quilters who want more creativity, confidence, and connection in their quilting life. Each month includes a new badge theme, tutorials, patterns, and creative prompts designed to help you try something new.✨ Learn more or join us at: https://quiltscouts.com