One of the most profound expressions of “the people” in America can found in our National Parks. It is in these spaces of natural beauty and historical significance that we love above all others where we can exercise our rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. If you visit the north entrance of Yellowstone National Park, the idea is literally carved in stone on the gate of the Roosevelt Arch, “for the benefit and enjoyment of the people”. Known as America’s best idea, the National Parks, in principle, give all people the chance to be who they are.
In the summer of 2025, at the Outside Festival in Denver Colorado, James Edward Mills, host of the Joy Trip Project, spoke with three prominent leaders of the National Park Service, Sally Jewell, David Vela and Chuck Sams, to explore and discuss in front of a live audience the notion of these places that preserve our natural history as well as our national heritage, who we are as a people.





















Recorded well in advance of the shutdown of the United States government, this conversation illustrates both the value and vulnerability of our federally protected public land. Each of these remarkable figures brings to this discussion their personal passion for the great outdoors as well as their commitment to service leadership. Through their example we can learn valuable lessons in the truest meaning of American democracy that stands to assure access to natural spaces for everyone.









Our parks are a reflection of who we are as Americans, every American sees a reflection of themselves and their parks, they find their story inside our parks all across America because you own them, they're yours.
~ Chuck Sams












Sally Jewell








David Vella








Chuck Sams









Special thanks to our friends Michael Roberts and Audrey Buchanan at the Outside Festival for their production of this remarkable discussion. Photos by Brad Kaminski. This edition of the Joy Trip Project was edited by Keith Roberson with associate producer Yves Jeffcoats. You can learn more about our stories and programs online at Joy Trip Project.com You’ll find us Instagram, Back to Episodes