American Conservation Experience Podcast

Following a natural disaster when the initial sirens fade, the long road to recovery begins. In this episode, we dive into how conservation corps like ACE are uniquely equipped for the long-haul work of disaster recovery. ACE Division Director Nikki Jones and National Director of Crew Programs Adam Scherm share how ACE has helped those in need. From the front lines of Hurricane Helene in Asheville to wildfire recovery in Hawaii and typhoon relief in Guam, discover how conservation crews pivot their specialized technical skills such as advanced chainsaw work and complex logistics to rebuild communities in crisis. 

Nikki also shares what it was like to start her new role as director the very day after a devastating hurricane hit her home base. This episode shares how ACE’s capacity extends beyond chainsaws but provides a heart-first, technical approach that includes everything from setting up large donation centers to ‘muck and gut’ work for residents who want to return to their homes. ACE also helps restore natural habitats on public lands devastated by disasters. 

Creators and Guests

Host
Elyse Cogburn
Elyse Cogburn is a passionate outdoor professional with over 15 years of experience bringing people and the planet together. She’s currently helping lead outreach and partnership development at American Conservation Experience. When she’s not connecting and building partnerships or empowering the next generation of changemakers, you’ll probably find her outdoors, chasing sunshine and good stories with her 4 legged sidekick, Doug Fur.
Guest
Adam Scherm
Adam serves as the National Director of Crew Programs where he oversees all regional Crew Divisions. With a degree in Zoology and a minor in Spanish from Oklahoma State University, Adam’s deep-rooted passion for environmental conservation began long before he joined ACE. After graduating, Adam served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Panama, focusing on community-based environmental conservation projects. Since joining ACE in 2009, Adam has held several roles across the country, gaining a wealth of experience in program management and leadership. His passion for the environment and professional development for young adults has fueled his career and inspired people along the way. When not working, Adam enjoys activities like hiking, camping, snorkeling, diving, and playing soccer. He cherishes time spent with his family, including his spouse, Mari, and pup, Cypress.
Producer
Leanne Fisher
Leanne Fisher is a seasoned marketing professional with over 20 years of experience, currently serving as the Marketing Director at American Conservation Experience (ACE). She has successfully blended her passion for conservation with her background in leading marketing efforts for nonprofit organizations such as the Boys & Girls Clubs (Kansas City) and the YWCA (Boulder County), as well as for-profit organizations. At ACE, Leanne is dedicated to elevating the organization’s mission, inspiring engagement, and connecting people to purpose through compelling storytelling and strategic communications.
Guest
Nikki Jones
Nikki Jones has worked in conservation and education for twenty years. She got her start in public lands through the National Park Service, where she served in both natural resource management and interpretation roles. Her background in education includes teaching in the classroom, leading cultural immersion semesters abroad, managing an award-winning outdoor science program, and serving as Interim Executive Director for Environmental Educators of North Carolina. Her conservation work has spanned agroforestry, park management, ecotourism, trail building, and habitat restoration. Nikki joined ACE in 2024 as the Associate Director of Operations for the Eastern Division before becoming Division Director for the same region.

What is American Conservation Experience Podcast?

Dive into the heart of conservation with The American Conservation Experience podcast!

Our Hosts, Elyse Cogburn, ACE’s Partnership Development Manager, and Dave Bastian, an ACE Division Director take you behind the scenes with one of the nation's leading conservation corps. Discover the impactful work and inspiring stories of the individuals involved in preserving our national and state parks, forests, wildlife refuges, and local outdoor spaces.

Gain insights into the essential conservation projects supported by thousands of young adults every year who gain hands-on experience and professional development along the way.

Tune in to hear their stories and learn how ACE is making a tangible difference. Find us on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts!