Park Leaders Show

Park Leaders connects the wisdom of Park Managers, leaders in the park system, and thought leaders of the business world with up and coming park leaders. This is the show for Park Rangers, Park Managers, and leaders who want to have an impact. Join host Jody Maberry as he talks to park leaders from all over the world.

The National Parks Classroom 04/08/2025

Rethinking Park Bathrooms 02/18/2025

Dealing With An Administrative Change 01/28/2025

The Role of Philanthropy in Parks 01/21/2025

Connecting With Nature in the Classroom 01/14/2025

The History of Public Lands 12/10/2024

Creating a City Level Junior Ranger Program 12/03/2024

Honoring Fallen Park Rangers 11/26/2024

The Impact of Natural Disasters on Parks 10/22/2024

Talking About the Glacier Park Conservancy 09/17/2024

A Summer as a Seasonal Park Aide 09/10/2024

Attention to Details Matter to Park Visitors 09/03/2024

Innovative Technology and Conservation 08/27/2024

Innovative Technology and Conservation "We need to inspire people, especially young people, with innovation. That is how we can change the world in a positive way. Connect with Viktor website Viktor on Resources Facebook - Viktor Meier is the cofounder and CEO of Glice®, a revolutionary company that has developed synthetic ice for a more sustainable ice skating experience. This conversation sheds light on how Glice® rinks are being used globally, from cold climates in Iceland to the sunny beaches of the Maldives, enabling ice skating in places and times previously thought impossible. Viktor grew up in Switzerland surrounded by nature. His commitment to conserving our environment was deeply influenced by the Chernobyl disaster. His journey from diplomat-in-training to eco-innovator is truly inspiring. Highlights from the episode: Viktor’s Journey: How growing up in Switzerland and witnessing the Chernobyl disaster inspired Viktor’s lifelong commitment to conservation and innovation. About Glice: The fascinating story behind Glice®, a synthetic ice that offers the feel and glide of real ice with zero energy and water usage. Impact on Parks: Discover how Glice® enables park systems in varying climates to introduce new recreational activities sustainably. Learning Opportunities: How parks can use Glice® to educate the public on sustainability and innovation. Future Prospects: The potential growth in sports and recreational activities in regions traditionally unable to support ice rinks. Viktor’s vision doesn't stop at recreation. He believes innovation is our best path toward a sustainable future. By showing kids these advancements, we inspire the next generation to tackle climate change creatively. Whether you are a park ranger, manager, or an advocate for the environment, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical wisdom. Learn how integrating innovative products like Glice® can attract a new audience to your parks while promoting sustainable practices and conservation. Take a listen now to hear Viktor's advice on authenticity, humility, and the importance of learning and innovation. /episode/index/show/parkleaders/id/32748227

The Legacy of George Melendez Wright 08/06/2024

The Legacy of George Melendez Wright "Because he died so early, there was no opportunity for him to really grow into what a lot of people think he was gonna become, which was the next director of the National Park Service and one of the leading conservationists in the nation." Key Moments 04:06 Working in conservation, writing about science and natural history. 07:05 Writing a book in 2019 about George Melendez Wright 12:30 Zoom meetings, presentations, follow-up articles, interviews. 14:36 Early death led to unrealized potential in conservation; legacy left behind. 19:24 Early wildlife conservation efforts overshadowed by infrastructure. 22:27 George Wright's early influence on John Jarvis, the impact on park rangers, and policies that still persist today. 24:34 Preserve animals, protecting habitat, and National Parks. 32:32 Quaker professors value conservation, environment, and community. 35:53 Surprising connections with book while reading. 39:10 Seasonal jobs lead to few permanent positions. 40:04 Yosemite shooting sparks management issues in parks. Connect with Jerry Emory Resources Facebook - George Melendez Wright was a trailblazer in conservation and wildlife management whose work continues to influence our national parks system today. Jerry Emory, an esteemed author and conservationist, has written an insightful biography, "George Melendez Wright, the Fight for Wildlife and Wilderness in the National Parks." In this episode, Jerry delves deep into the life and legacy of George Melendez Wright, a pioneering figure in the National Park Service. Our discussion touched on Wright's groundbreaking work, his relentless spirit, and the critical influence of his mentors. This episode highlights: Legacy of Innovation: George Wright introduced science-based wildlife management in national parks, advocating against harmful practices like feeding garbage to bears and developing a recovery program for the trumpeter swan. Resilience and Dedication: Wright's ability to overcome cultural resistance within the National Park Service, fueled by his intellect and personality, serves as an inspiring example for current and aspiring park leaders. Importance of Mentorship: The role of Wright's mentors, including Joseph Grinnell, was foundational to his approach in wildlife conservation. Surrounding yourself with supportive and knowledgeable mentors can significantly shape one's career and impact. This conversation is a fascinating journey into the history of conservation and the impact one individual can have on the protection and preservation of our natural heritage. Whether you're an aspiring park leader or a seasoned park ranger, this episode is packed with insights, historical context, and stories that highlight the challenges and rewards of working in national parks. Thank you, Jerry, for such a great conversation on the impact of George Melendez Wright. /episode/index/show/parkleaders/id/32453697

What Has Changed in Parks in the Last Decade 07/23/2024

What Has Changed in Parks in the Last Decade "If you look back over the last 100 years of significant events in America's parks, state, national, local, that, you know, on that list of the top 10 or 15 things that's that's changed the way we manage parks is, how we did the pandemic." Resources Facebook - We just celebrated a major milestone—300 episodes of the Park Leaders Show! This episode felt like a great opportunity for Phil Gains and I to reflect on what has changed in parks over the last decade and look towards the future. It's been an incredible journey of connecting with park managers, leaders, and thought leaders, and we're grateful for every listener who has been part of this adventure. In this episode we talk about the evolution of our beloved parks. Some of biggest shifts came from the unexpected twists the pandemic brought. Here are three more takeaways from our conversation: Rising Visitation & Sustainability: Parks have seen a significant uptick in visitors, raising both excitement and sustainability concerns. How do we welcome more people while preserving our natural resources? Pandemic Impact & Innovation: The global pandemic has drastically changed park operations and management, leading to an increase in online interpretation and programming. We've had to adapt quickly, but the silver lining is the new ways we're connecting with our communities. Growth in Park Leadership: Over the past decade, we've witnessed advancements in workforce sophistication, visitor demographics, and the myriad challenges faced by park leaders. The Park Leaders Show has been there every step, evolving to discuss these critical changes. A special shoutout to Phil Gaines for being such a significant part of this journey and to all our incredible guests and listeners. Starting this podcast was a way to merge my love for parks with business leadership concepts. It's been an absolute pleasure to make it happen. I look forward to continuing to bring you these conversations, including more on-location interviews and expand international park conversations. Let the adventure continue! /episode/index/show/parkleaders/id/32254197

Finding Balance in Your Park Career 07/09/2024

Interpreting Freeman Tilden 07/02/2024

Interpreting Freeman Tilden "Does it really make any difference if you do believe something, but are at the same time intolerant of someone who does not agree or concur in your beliefs?" Key Moments 01:27 Meeting Freeman Tilden. 09:42 Starting a Career with Park Service at age 58. 11:54 Freeman Reevaluates National Park Service Principles and Writes "Interpreting Our Heritage" at age 71 14:59 Aiming for Visitor Engagement, Not Just Facts .17:00 Becaming a Team for National Park Service 22:58 Lasting Impact of 47 years of Documented Experiences. 26:06 Focusing on Environment, Change, and Tolerance. 27:03 Human Interference with Nature, Moral Poverty, and Creating Positive Experiences 33:03 Presentation about Freeman Tilden at Ranger Rendezvous 47 Resources Facebook - Interpreting Freeman Tilden In this episode, Walt Dabney returns to share share his extraordinary experience as a student trainee. Walt is the retired director of Texas State Parks and a former National Park Service employee who held various roles during his distinguished career. He even spent an entire year working closely with the legendary Freeman Tilden. Tilden was an author and is known as the Father of Heritage Interpretation. Throughout his career, he wrote works like "Interpreting Our Heritage" and "The World in Debt," and collaborated with notable figures like H. L. Mencken. Imagine traveling 30,000 miles across the United States by car and train, visiting national parks, and engaging with park staff, colleges, and universities—all while being under the mentorship of one of the most influential figures in park interpretation. That's what Walt experienced in 1970. In our conversation, Walt reflects on the invaluable life lessons he learned from Freeman, the lasting friendship they forged, and how Freeman’s teachings continue to influence park professionals and leaders to this day. For example, he emphasized the importance of personalized storytelling in park interpretation. Tilden also believed that the National Park Service played a crucial role in the moral fabric of the country, advocating for self-improvement and quality over materialism. Freeman Tilden’s insights go beyond just park interpretation. His guidance on self-change and passion-driven impact remains valuable life advice for us all. Make sure to listen to this episode to learn about the profound impact of Freeman Tilden on park interpretation and learn why his wisdom extends beyond parks to life itself. Thank you to Walt Dabney for taking us on a journey back to those transformative times and sharing insights into your own years interpreting Freeman Tilden. /episode/index/show/parkleaders/id/31972597

How to Have an Effective Welcome Station 06/25/2024

Talking About the National Recreation and Park Association 06/18/2024

Talking About the National Recreation and Park Association "Parks can be a great antidote to social isolation and mental health struggles. Yet the only way to do that effectively is to invest in our parks and make sure that the experience that people have when they go is positive and supportive of those health outcomes." Key Moments 05:31 The Impact of Local Parks on Personal Growth 08:39 NRPA's origin and evolution, partnership with parks. 11:39 Protecting Natural Spaces for Future Generations 13:33 NRPA Resources and Geographical Connection 16:44 The Importance of Parks and Recreation for Community Health 21:49 Health and Tourism Being Vital for Community Welfare. 26:17 Partnerships Supporting Parks and Recreation. Connect with Kristine LinkedIn Resources Facebook - While on my way to the National Association of State Park Directors conference in Lake Tahoe, I happened to share a ride with Kristine Stratton, the president and CEO of the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). Her friendly nature sparked a conversation where we discovered our shared passion for the challenges and opportunities that parks present across various states. It only seemed right to have her join for a conversation. In this episode, Kristine shares her journey, from an outdoorsy upbringing in Maine and a career in public broadcasting to her influential role in environmental policy and now at NRPA. The NRPA is instrumental in supporting local parks and recreation nationwide, providing essential resources, advocacy, and professional development for over 164,000 full-time park professionals and millions of volunteers. During our conversation Kristine and I discuss the impact of parks on community health, economic growth, and the well-being of residents, as well as the pivotal role of the NRPA in fostering connections and driving progress in the field. She also shares insights into the NRPA's initiatives, such as their professional development programs, federal grants, and significant legislative advocacy work. Make sure to listen to this episode to learn more about the invaluable work of the NRPA and the profound difference well-supported parks can make in our communities. You do not want to miss Kristine's inspiring stories and her call to action for park leaders to utilize NRPA's vast resources to enhance their impact. If you’re a park leader, make sure to tap into NRPA’s member platform for training and guidance. Grow with their resources and connect with peers. /episode/index/show/parkleaders/id/31785137

Creating Experiences for Normal People 04/09/2024

Creating Experiences for Normal People "The general public is not impressed with how much you know. They're impressed with how much you've inspired them to know more about the places they visit." Key Moments 02:04 Creating Park Experiences for New Visitors 07:10 The Challenge of Information Overload in the Digital Era 10:35 Historical Communication and Public Engagement 16:02 Inspire Learning through Augmented Reality Historical Storytelling 18:08 Instant Information Access on Learning 21:19 Contact for creating park experiences or highlights. Resources Facebook - Creating Experiences for Normal People The deep knowledge of park leaders is invaluable. However, when we want to create experiences for the everyday visitor it is important to recognize that simplicity resonates with the general public. We can add to their experience by offering narratives and relatable stories that build their interest in the history. Even better is when it encourages them to further explore the land. Too many park guests feel lost in a sea of too much information at an exhibit. Park leaders have the unique role of balancing their wealth of knowledge with creating intrigue of the great outdoors. As Phil says, "park people are not normal people." and how we can embrace this difference to enrich the experiences of our everyday visitors. "Normal" may be subjective, but the joy of discovering the wonder of parks is universal. A park adventure shouldn't feel like a history exam. It's about creating a connection that turns mere data into memorable stories. This is how parks capture hearts and provoke minds. Ever heard of the Horn Works in Charleston? No? Phil Gaines shares about turning a 10x10 foot relic into a journey through time. Imagine seeing a revolution-era fort pop up among modern buildings using augmented reality. That's where technology marches alongside history in the parks, showing us that innovation and tradition can walk hand in hand. It's an opportunity to dive into the past without getting lost! It is inevitable that people will spend time googling historical facts after a park visit. Visiting parks sparks curiosity in the minds of the next generation. For many younger visitors, a monument speaks louder than textbooks. Parks are more than terrain; they're a testament to human history. Next time you visit a park, look beyond the scenery. Search for the story, find the connection, and dive into the curiosity and wonder the experience brings. While park staff may not be your everyday Joe, the experiences they curate should resonate with anyone stepping off the bus, ready for adventure. Make sure to listen to listen to this episode for more on ways park leaders are working on making the next 250 years of park history as engaging as the first. /episode/index/show/parkleaders/id/30740638

Volunteer Projects to Enhance Tourism 04/02/2024

Volunteer Projects to Enhance Tourism "We have to do more things with younger people to make sure they know what a cool industry we are and that there are so many different job opportunities that aren't just front line." Key Moments 04:35 Tourism Synergy and Collaboration 08:37 Empowering Youth to Make a Positive Impact 14:50 Revitalizing Urban Parks and Workforce Development. 19:03 Building Partnerships for Environmental Conservation 20:26 Historic Site Preservation 23:50 Community Support in the Tourism Industry 28:06 Promoting Career Diversity to Youth Resources Facebook - Volunteer Projects to Enhance Tourism The dedication of park professionals is undeniable, espeically when they are all together in one place. At the annual in-service for Michigan State Park, I had the opportunity to meet a number of people doing amazing things, including Patty Janes, a professor and founder of Michigan Cares For Tourism. Her organization brings together tourism experts to revitalize Michigan's historic and cultural park attractions. The more we talk the more clear is becomes that impact of volunteer work on local tourism provides a blueprint for successful community involvement. Volunteerism is a tourism booster. Patty has championed this cause through Michigan Cares For Tourism by organizing volunteer events that tackle the maintenance backlog in state parks. These events, such as an adopt-a-forest program, are vital for park conservation. They also enhance the visitor experience by improving facilities and creating a cleaner environment. The impressive result of these efforts is an estimated $1.2 million in labor and supplies saved for the state. She knew the profound economic impact of volunteer-driven tourism projects, and it is most certainly paying off. Collaboration is the linchpin of success in these community projects. The synergy between Michigan Cares For Tourism and a diverse set of organizations such as Pure Michigan and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources has been a key force. These partnerships facilitate initiatives such as the transportation of volunteers via donated motor coaches and the structuring of professional communication. This approach underlines the potential of joint efforts to get sustainable results. All while creating a more vibrant tourism industry. Educating and involving the younger generation in tourism is a must. Patty continuously works with high schoolers and early professionals to bring awareness to career opportunities within the tourism sector. This helps highlight the field's career potential while insprining future stewards of Michigan's natural gems. It also encourages the fresh flow of ideas and innovation, ensuring the longevity of the industry. Make sure to listen to this episode for more of Patty Janes’ insights and opportunities. Whether you’re a business professional with an eye for community impact or simply a lover of parks, this episode is full of ideas on the intersection of volunteerism and tourism. /episode/index/show/parkleaders/id/30631748

The Role of a Park Director 03/26/2024

The Role of a Park Director "A good new part director has a vision. And and if you want to make a difference and leave your mark, you have to have vision of where you want to take your agency in the next year, in the next 3 years, and in the next 5 years." Key Moments 06:53 Recognize the need to act as leader. 11:39 Watch what you say, people are listening. 13:38 Build on core values, ethics, and vision. 18:28 New directors often overwhelmed, need readiness training. 21:35 Stay close to service, vision, motivate. 25:38 Seek smarter team members for success. Resources Facebook - The Role of a Park Director Successful leaders have a clear vision and understand the impact of communication. in order to drive it forward. Phil Gaines returns for a great conversation on the role of a park director, though anyone in a leadership role can benefit from what we discussed. When someone has a vision, it will only come to fruition if they make decisions with confidence to empower their team while staying close to your point of service 3 key takeaways from our conversation: Vision and Communication: Successful leaders have a vision and can effectively communicate it to their team. This sets the path for the team's success and establishes a sense of urgency. Empowerment: Effective leaders must empower their team members with the knowledge and tools needed for success and be ready to support them as they work toward achieving the shared vision. Accountability and Decision Making: Leaders need to be okay with being held accountable and must be willing to make tough decisions. They should be focused on moving the team forward strategically and not recklessly, with a strong sense of urgency. This episode gives a great perspective on the intricacies of leading a park, while also offering valuable wisdom for leadership roles in various organizational settings. This episode is a must listen, whether you aim to rise to the position of a Park Director, or aspire to grow in your current leadership position. /episode/index/show/parkleaders/id/30542843

Leadership is a Choice 03/19/2024

Leadership is a Choice “Go sit on a rock in your favorite spot somewhere and do a very serious self-assessment. What am I good at? What am I not good at? What do I like to do? What do I don't like to do? And if you don't want to be out there in the lead, if you don't want to be out there taking some risk, if you don't want to get up in front of audiences, don't put yourself in that position." Key Moments 01:45 Starting a Career in Parks and Recreation 06:37 Ranger Experience in Yosemite 10:31 Toxic Work Environments 13:57 Conservation Efforts in Protected Areas 14:45 Environmental Protection by National Park Service Personnel 19:01 Leadership Accountability and Self-Assessment 25:35 Importance of Reputation in Career Success Walt's Presentations on YouTube | Texas Parks and Wildlife Education Channel Canyonlands Natural History Association | Coalition to Protect America's Nation Resources Facebook - Leadership is a Choice As a park leader it is necessary to be willing to take risks and make difficult decisions. One person that is no stranger to that is Walt Dabney, retired director of Texas State Parks. Walt has left a mark on the parks and conservation landscape, making him quite a legend in the industry. During our conversation Walt shares stories from his extraordinary career. From his deep-rooted connection to the outdoors in Texas, to his unexpected journey through the National Park Service and his pivotal role in challenging decisions that would impact the future of our public lands. He even took on the military to stand up to mining interests. Walt's unwavering commitment to safeguarding our parks serves as a powerful lesson in resilience, determination, and the true meaning of leadership. This episode explores: - The bold moves and pivotal decisions that shaped Walt's career - The importance of taking a stand and putting yourself at risk for what you believe in - Key strategies for effective leadership, including decision-making, self-assessment, and fostering respect and trust Being a leader means balancing approachability with managerial authority. Leaders should be ready to embrace bold moves. Throughout Walt’s career, he had to make bold decisions, take on challenging assignments, and stands up for what he believes in. It is also important to recognize when the role you’re in isn’t what you thought you wanted or turns out to not allow you to do the things you are good at. Even if you don't enjoy your current role, be diligent, supportive, and efficient in your work, as this will impact your reputation and future career opportunities. This episode is full of valuable lessons from Walt's experiences and leadership philosophy. It is a must listen for park leaders and enthusiasts. There is no doubt you’ll want to hear more, so many sure you keep an eye out for the documentary, "History of America's Public Lands.” This documentary will further expand your knowledge of the history and relevance of public lands in the United States. /episode/index/show/parkleaders/id/30405518

Finding the Return on Investment in Interpretation 03/12/2024

Finding the Return on Investment in Interpretation “People can't fall in love with your park if they're lost." Key Moments 03:49 Law enforcement rangers use interpretation to influence. 07:05 Expanding park interpretive products for diverse experiences. 09:56 Framework for visitor experience in parks and its application across different contexts. 13:53 Problem-solving strategies for adaptation. 19:08 ROI of interpretive programs for park rangers. 21:54 The challenges of parks to increase diversity amid visitor influx. 23:14 Diversity and inclusion in State Parks for better representation. Connect with Ky Resources Facebook - Finding the Return on Investment in Interpretation Interpretation plays a vital role in attracting, entertaining, and educating diverse users. One person with a lot of experience in this area is Ky Harkey, former director of interpretation for Texas State Parks and now founder of The Visitor Experience. His expertise in interpretation and visitor experience helps park leaders improve the relevance and inclusivity of their programs and services. During our conversation Ky shares some of the ways we can enhance the visitor experience, increase diversity in visitorship, and create a more engaging and impactful park environment for everyone. Key Takeaways from this conversation: Interpretation & Business: The concept of "entrepreneurial park rangers" reflects the need for the park industry to approach management and services as a business. This will help them effectively solve the challenges and drive impact. Stewardship Staircase: The framework of the "staircase of the visitor experience" encompasses the 5 core services along the Staircase to Stewardship. It provides a strategic way to guide visitors towards stewardship and reflects the diversity of the communities the parks serve. Diversity in Visitorship: Interpretation plays a vital role in attracting and engaging diverse users by sharing under-told stories of natural and cultural history, providing relevance, and fostering connections leading to moments of impact. Make sure you listen to the full episode to gain insights into the visitor experience and the influence of interpretation in shaping the future of parks. To learn more about Ky’s work and get access to a self-assessment tool to evaluate your visitor services, visit thevisitorexperience.org. Consider ways you can embrace the transformative power of interpretation and entrepreneurial innovation to grow the experiences that have a positive impact of parks and conservation. /episode/index/show/parkleaders/id/30334938

Managing Protected Areas 03/05/2024

Managing Protected Areas "Part of the narrative that we find ourselves in is talking about creating areas that are protected for people, not from people." Key Moments 02:57 Conservation and Community Participation 05:29 Rethinking Conservation Strategies 14:57 Conservation Training in Latin America 17:22 International Conservation Collaboration 22:05 Importance of Nature on Human Health 23:54 Global Tourism Program Facilitates Cross-Cultural Exchange and Learning. 27:13 Global Conservation Efforts Connect with Ryan LinkedIn Resources Facebook - Managing Protected Areas Ryan Finchum is the co-director of the Center For Protected Area Management at Colorado State University and a seasoned expert working with the US Forest Service international programs. He joins for a conversation diving deep into the world of protected areas. We explore the crucial decisions that shape our national parks and conservation efforts, and how past mistakes can light the way for future success. From missteps like feeding bears in dumps to the construction dilemmas faced by park roads. Ryan shares some of the vital lessons learned and the international collaborations that aim to bolster our global stewardship efforts. Key Takeaways: Lessons From History and Colleagues: Understanding the mistakes of the past, and the knowledge exchange on a global scale, is vital for forward movement in protected area management. Career Opportunities in Conservation: Ryan underscores the multitudinous pathways for careers within protected land spaces - an inspirational note for the upcoming generation of conservationists to think beyond traditional roles. Community Inclusion & Support: The core of Ryan's message lies in creating inclusive protected areas for and by the community, emphasizing that their successful management hinges on community involvement and support. Don't miss this conversation on the nuances of managing protected areas, ranger training, sustainability. It's not just about protecting land, but also about nurturing relationships with those who inhabit it. /episode/index/show/parkleaders/id/30231068

Answering Questions About Being a Park Ranger 02/27/2024

Answering Questions About Being a Park Ranger "If you're going to be really good at it, you're passionate about it. You believe that you're doing something that's bigger than just collecting a paycheck." Key Moments 02:05 Inspiration for a Career in Park Rangers 06:13 Evolving Qualifications for Park Rangers 08:39 The Importance of Passion in Career Choices 21:38 Evolution of Park Rangers and Park Management 31:44 Job Application Strategies and Power of Networking 45:11 The Importance of Work-Life Balance in the Great Outdoors 47:54 Unexpected Challenges of Environmental Awareness 53:28 College Involvement, Professional Associations, and the Future of Park Rangers Resources Facebook - Answering Questions About Being a Park Ranger Being a park ranger is about more than just trees and trails. Phil Gaines and I both believe it is about the people you meet and the relationships you nurture in this close-knit community. There is never a dull moment when park rangers come together to swap tales from the trails. And while there is certainly a share of wildlife encounters and serene sunsets, there’s so much more to the job. That is why we decided to take the time to dig deeper into the park ranger experience. Networking is essential even in the most remote locations. It's like linking trails with people. Networking is a natural pathway to opportunity. By connecting with a friend I found myself being introdced to the National Park Service director. These are the connections that turn park-goers into park stewards, proving it's not just the trees that stand tall together; it's us rangers too. Sure, being a ranger means living the park life (literally), but that doesn't mean personal life takes a back trail. It can be a balancing act, like a bighorn sheep on a rocky ridge. It's about finding a sweet spot so your personal time doesn't get lost in the woods. Whether it’s managing family life within park boundaries or carving out time for self-care, it is important to make sure you take time to also care for yourself. Times are changing, and so is the role of the park ranger. There has been a cultural shift from the traditional ranger persona to a wave of fresh faces eager to influence and innovate. There is a wave of new recruits who bring new ideas and are ready to grow. The new generation isn't settling for the status quo. They want to contribute, to be part of decisions that shape their parks. And they need leaders who will listen. Parks serve as more than just plots of land; they're a sanctuary for both wildlife and the human spirit. Becoming a park ranger is as much about loving the parks as protecting them. It’s about being ready for anything—from guiding lost visitors to handling wildlife and preserving natural habitats. A park ranger's career isn't easy. The outdoor office has its challenges, but your contribution is timeless. Rangers shape memories, protect history, and make our parks a home for all. Whether you're looking to start your career or just love the great outdoors, make sure to listen to this episode, “Answering Questions About Being a Park Ranger”, for first-hand answers about being a park ranger. /episode/index/show/parkleaders/id/30099963

Document History 12/05/2023

Document History "Sometimes we forget, or perhaps even take for granted, the significant role that we may be we may be playing in this legacy that we call parks." Episode HIghlights 01:07 Significance of national parks and our role in preserving parks. 04:53 Organic Act of 1916 shaped National Park Service. 06:49 Lack of agreement among states led to individual state park systems. 10:05 Need to actively preserve and utilize information for future generations. 16:08 Challenge of storing, organizing, and preserving photos and videos. 21:41 Document and archive significant historical events proactively. 25:05 Capture memories and impact of park experiences for future reference. Resources Facebook - Document History It is incredibly important to preserve the historical legacy of our national and state parks. There is a need to capture significant events, natural disasters, and park facilities for our future understanding. Phil Gaines joins this episode to talk about the importance of documenting history in parks, including strategic archiving of photos and videos. There is a need for a strategic approach to maintain historical records amidst the era of social media, emphasizing the importance of cataloging and archiving photos and stories. Some of the ways this can be done are by creating procedures for archiving significant events, conducting year-end reviews, and documenting landscape changes over time. It is also important for individuals to recognize the impact they are making on the park system and to be deliberate in their documentation efforts. No effort is too small. From significant events to natural disasters and park facilities, impact of photography and digital archiving is crucial. These moments shape the narrative of our parks and help us appreciate their evolution. Some of the ways this can be done are to create procedures for archiving significant events, conduct year-end reviews, and document the change in landscapes over time. It's all about capturing the essence of our parks for posterity. Take a listen to the full episode to gain a deeper understanding of the importance of documenting park history. Share your thoughts with Phil and I to continue the conversation about preserving the legacy of our parks. /episode/index/show/parkleaders/id/28932423

People Come First in Parks 11/28/2023

People Come First in Parks “If you offer something specific, not only are you offering to help, but that shows that you see them as a person and that you're recognizing their specific needs rather than just generalized to the general population." Episode Highlights 03:39 Creating a podcast about parks and the opportunities that come from it. 09:02 Recommendations can be reliable and chance encounters facilitate connections. 10:15 Being open to opportunities and making connections has led to getting great podcast guests. 15:28 Leaders should prioritize personal responsibilities over their public service roles. 17:53 Park rangers are prioritizing their roles. 22:17 Putting people first leads to park love. 27:41 Advice for outdoor leaders: equip, inspire, and succeed. 32:04 Be specific when offering help to others. Resources Facebook - Last episode, we did an interview with Chris Lee. In this episode, we're going to Flip it a bit. I'm going to share the episode of Chris's Parks and Restoration podcast where Chris Interviews me. I'm not so sure I've ever done that on the park leader show. If I have, it's been a while. It was a great conversation, and I look forward to sharing it with you. During our conversation we talk about the importance of putting people first in parks. As park leaders, it's crucial to prioritize the well-being of our staff and visitors. The best leaders in the public sector, particularly in parks, prioritize serving their staff first. By creating a supportive and empowering environment for our teams, we can foster a love for the park and enhance their desire to connect others to it. The power of connection is undeniable. Networking and building meaningful relationships play a significant role in the success of park leadership. Through connections with professionals, we gain recommendations for guests on the show, while also broadening our knowledge and understanding of industry trends and disruptions. Whether in the workplace or personal life, offering specific help is more effective than a general offer. By taking the time to understand someone's unique needs and offering tailored assistance, we show that we truly care and are invested in their success. If you're a park leader or passionate about parks and conservation, I highly recommend listening to this episode. It's packed with insights, anecdotes, and practical advice that can help drive positive change in the industry. Let's continue to prioritize people and create exceptional experiences in our parks. /episode/index/show/parkleaders/id/28785488

The Impact of Local Conservation 10/31/2023

Manage Like a Mother 10/10/2023

Manage Like a Mother "When your mother was not setting expectation properly and yet was keeping you accountable, it felt unfair. You remember that. So take those learnings and apply them in the workforce..." – Valerie Cockerell The skills and experiences of motherhood translate into essential and effective leadership skills. Valerie Cockerell started to find similarities between the challenges of managing a park to the struggles of parenting. Throughout our conversation, she emphasizes the valuable skills mothers acquire through managing a household, such as time management, conflict resolution, and crisis management. Her own experiences as both a mother and a leader within a global company have shaped her perspective on leadership. Feedback should be seen as a gift for growth or an opportunity to become better in our roles. Valerie emphasizes the distinction between judging character and changing behavior. She points out that many emerging leaders lack proper training, which can lead to difficulties for both them and their teams. That's where Valerie's book, “Manage Like a Mother”, comes in. It offers practical advice on various leadership competencies, all which have are inspired by the amazing qualities of mothers. Valerie believes that men can learn from the naturally honed leadership skills of mothers. Once that value is recognized it is important to promote more women, especially mothers, into leadership positions. There have been positive changes in the park industry, with more moms and women taking on influential roles as park rangers. Recognizing and valuing the diverse skills of mothers can lead to a more inclusive and nurturing workplace environment. Mothers have a special way of influencing and teaching people to do something in a way that people then want to do because they see value in it. This is also a strength of great leaders. When employees are guided by that type of leadership it ensures that even when the leader is not present, tasks are still performed. The team understands their importance and contribution to the overall objective. Make sure to take a listen to this unique perspective on leadership and the parallels with motherhood. Let us know what stood out to you in this conversation and how you see it influencing your park leadership. Join the conversation on this topic using #ManageLikeaMother. Connect with Valerie: Order the book - Email - . LinkedIn - Resources Facebook - Episode Highlights [00:02:20] Childhood memories foraging for mushrooms in France bring appreciation for American national parks. [00:05:40] "Beautiful parks, crowded with people, but nostalgic." [00:10:12] Limited leadership training leads to difficult leadership. [00:15:24] Feedback is a gift for improvement. [00:18:15] Being a manager is difficult without training, much like parenting. [00:20:31] Men need to recognize and advocate for leadership skills they see in women. [00:23:49] Motherhood is like leading a team; influence is key. [00:27:52] Don't rush, learn and seek guidance. /episode/index/show/parkleaders/id/28212377

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