What if your local conservation foundation didn't just sell raffle tickets at a banquet — what if it headlined a three-day riverfront festival that drew 12,000 people and netted over $20,000 for conservation?

That's exactly what happened in Burlington, Iowa. And it started with a half-baked idea about boat races on the Mississippi.

In this episode, Chris sits down with Chris Gram, Executive Director of the Greater Burlington Convention and Visitors Bureau, to tell the origin story of Burlington River Days — a three-day riverfront festival featuring live concerts, a barbecue competition, a boat parade, River Days Olympics, and a boat giveaway — all organized in six months by a committee of six people with no event experience, no security staff, and a VIP fence held together with zip ties and conduit welded by a financial advisor.

But more than a great story, this episode is a masterclass in what happens when you assemble the right people, refuse to say "can't," and let your local foundation be more than a pass-through for tax-deductible donations. It's also a direct follow-up to Episode 91 with Hannah Inman — and proof that the "don't be afraid" ethos applies just as much in Burlington as it does in Des Moines.

Key topics:

• The catalysts behind Burlington River Days and how it came together in six months
• Why "don't tell me what I can't do" is a leadership philosophy, not just a personality trait
• How to build a committee of people who default to "how do we make this work?"
• The role of tourism partners, local nonprofits, and community foundations in making big ideas real
• Why public agency leaders need a nimble nonprofit partner to take entrepreneurial risks
• How embracing your critics with humor can become one of your best marketing moves

Resources mentioned:

• Burlington River Days
• Partners for Conservation Foundation
• Greater Burlington Convention and Visitors Bureau
• Burlington Riverfront Entertainment
• Episode 91: Mindset Shifts That Grow Nonprofits into Fundraising Powerhouses with Hannah Inman

About Parks and Restoration Podcast

The Parks and Restoration Podcast is for parks and conservation professionals who want to become better leaders, because better leadership creates better ecosystems, stronger teams, and more meaningful impact. Learn more at: ParksandRestoration.com