Park Leaders Show : Park Ranger | National Park | State Park | Leadership

"After 43 years of doing this, some things didn't sound accurate to me. So I started researching this in in order to to put together a program to go out and really explain what the history of these places are and what is fact and what is fiction." When was the last time you thought about the history behind our public lands? It's more intricate than many realize. One person that knows that is a veteran leader in the world of parks, Walt Dabney. Walt joined us fresh from the 47th annual Ranger Rendezvous. This event started back in 1977 and continues to bring park rangers together. His presentation on the history and future of public lands was incredibly compelling. Do yourself a favor and take the time to watch it on YouTube. Walt unpacked the historical context of how America's public lands came to be, from the Louisiana Purchase and Treaty of Paris to the impacts of the Mexican War. He explained how the lens of history is crucial to understanding current debates, particularly the contentious issue of transfe

"Signs don't do much. It's the educational programs where you're actually talking to people that are the most effective in changing behaviors." Notable Moments 00:42 Prescott's volunteer-driven, unique park ranger system. 03:26 Code enforcement change to interpretation. 07:07 Leave No Trace signs to improve local campsites. 11:48 Enhance accessibility and safety to attract families. 15:38 Launching a Junior Ranger program 18:06 Nature Ninos partner is developing a local STEM activity center. 20:53 ADA trails improve park accessibility. Sean Underhill is a park ranger from Prescott, Arizona helping get city-level park programs up and running. He shares insights into their extensive volunteer efforts and a new ranger program that is building a bridge between parks and local communities. The implementation of a city level Junior Ranger program is one great example of the innovative initiatives they are working on. Read the blog for more of the takeaways from my conversation with Sean. Resources www.parkleaders.

"We honor our profession and we're proud of what we do to remember those that we lost." Park Rangers often dedicate their life to the preservation of nature. There is another side of the work that is less known; Uncovering the forgotten stories of those who paid the ultimate price. My conversation with Jeff Ohlfs, retired chief ranger of Joshua Tree National Park, explored the often-overlooked sacrifices of park rangers worldwide. Read more about his work in the blog.  Resources Association of National Park Rangers Park Rangers Association of California www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/  

"As a helper, as a as a compassionate individual, you can get compassion fatigue, physical fatigue, and emotional fatigue because it is devastating." Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/  

"By bringing varied backgrounds into conservation careers, we are ensuring our parks represent all of America." Connect with Doug Email Doug Mitchell Glacier National Park Conservancy Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/ In Glacier National Park, the journey to reintroduce bison is a great example of the power of perseverance and learning from failure. The collaborative effort between the US Federal Government, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Glacier Park leaders, and the Blackfeet Nation was a key marker in the project’s success. This journey wasn't straightforward thought. Read more about it here on my blog. 

"I've never been there early enough to see the sunrise, but I've been there late enough to see the sunset. And it does have a really pretty sunset." Notable Moments 02:04 Common Questions from Visitors 06:33 Importance of Seasonal Training 08:02 Day in the Life of a Park Employee 10:12 Family adventures with bears.  Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ It's not every day you get to hear from someone about their experience working at the park they group up in. However, that is exactly what my daughter, Gretel, spent her summer doing at Fort Flagler State Park. I couldn't be more grateful to have her joining Phil Gaines and I to share her insights into what makes Fort Flagler so special.  Take a listen or read about it by visiting my blog.

"The small stuff is where you create that memory or you create an impression that never leaves them. Attention to those little details really matter." Attention to details isn't just a small matter; it can transform the experience of park visitors. In the latest episode of the Park Leaders Show, Phil Gaines returns for a conversation about why the small stuff is crucial in parks and conservation. Paying close attention to the seemingly little things can make a monumental difference to visitors. Notable Takeaways: Small Stuff Matters: Whether it's ensuring cobweb-free restrooms or aligned signs, paying attention to small details reflects how well the entire park is managed. This attention can significantly affect visitors' perceptions and experiences. Creating a Culture of Care: Consistent attention to minor details not only maintains cleanliness but also instills a culture of discipline and care among park staff. This can be infectious and elevate the whole team's commitment. Visitor Perspective is Essentia

"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 Glice website Viktor's Website Viktor on Instagram   Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/ 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 inspir

"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 i

"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 www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/ 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 upt

"Work-life balance means that you're trying to find a way to balance this so you're a complete person and your batteries are recharged." Key Moments 01:10 Peak of park busyness means a ranger is always on as a ranger. 05:29 Balancing work and life in park professions. 09:08 Passion for work requires deliberate disengagement. 11:52 Engaging in activities outside of work reduces stress. 13:38 Work-life balance leads to better performance. 17:03 Take a breath, step back, refocus. 21:45 The joys of the job are rewarding moments and fun challenges. Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/   Being a park ranger isn’t just a job. For many of us, it’s a calling. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your own well-being. Phil Gaines and I talk about some practices that can easily be built into your routine and transform how you approach the ballance between your work and your life. As Phil says, "You are never not a park ranger, especially

"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 Ranger Rendezvous Information National Park Service Bio of Freeman Tilden www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/ Interpreting Freeman Tilden In this episode, Walt Dabney returns to share share his extraordinary experienc

"The welcome station is where you are telling a visitor what to expect during the rest of their time with you." Key Moments 05:58 First Impressions Matter at Parks 10:41 The Importance of Welcome Station Staff 16:34 Understanding Role vs. Purpose 19:06 Optimizing Park Efficiency  21:41 Importance of Face Time with Park Rangers 24:57 Pre-Shift Meetings at Welcome stations Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/ How to Have an Effective Welcome Station One of the most crucial touchpoints in any park experience is the welcome station. Welcome stations are not just a checjpoint or stops as you enter a park. They are an opportunity to make a memorable start to a visitor’s journey. Welcome stations are the first impression visitors get of a park. During our conversation, Phil Gaines and I explain how knowledgeable, engaged staff can make or break that experience. Imagine arriving at a state park and being greeted by a ranger who’s genuinely en

"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 Bio on NRPA Website NRPA.org LinkedIn Kristine Stratton Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/ 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

"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 www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/ 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 f

"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 www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/ 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 exp

 "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 www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/ 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

“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 A History of America's Public Lands | Texas Parks and Wildlife Education Channel History of US Public Lands Canyonlands Natural History Association Conversation on Public Lands with Walt Dabney | Coalition to Protect America's Nation Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parklead

“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 The Visitor Experience website Ky Harkey on LinkedIn Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/ 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 Expe

"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 Ryan Finchum Warner College of Natural Resources Resources www.parkleaders.com https://parkleaders.com/about/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/ 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 co