Park Leaders Show

"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 enthusiastic and well-informed. That's what we're aiming for. This kind of interaction shapes visitors' experiences. Effective welcome stations aren't just about giving directions. They're about managing capacity, educating visitors on rules, and representing the entire park system. Proper training and communication are key.

Pre-shift meetings are crucial to ensure consistent experiences for customers and students at the welcome station. They equip welcome station staff with the latest info, ensuring safety, efficiency, and courtesy. Disney does it, and so should parks.

It's not just about creating a role for a welcome station employee; it's about their purpose. Creating positive interactions and being the friendly face of the park sets the tone for an unforgettable visit. Make sure to listen to this conversation between Phil and I for more ways to have an effective welcome station.

"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 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.

"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 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.

"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 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.

"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 confidence to empower their team while staying close to your point of service

3 key takeaways from our conversation:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.

"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://parkleaders.com/about/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/

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.

"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 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.

"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 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.

"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

www.parkleaders.com

https://parkleaders.com/about/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/

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.

"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

www.parkleaders.com

https://parkleaders.com/about/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/

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.