109: My Activism Is Being Accessible and Creating Safe Spaces to Have Difficult Conversations

Nicholas Jamahl Butler has experienced nearly the entire range of natural resource management in his seven-year career. Jamahl is the District Ranger of the Las Angeles Gateway Ranger District and has a focus on ecological restoration and conservation. On today's show, Jamahl dives into the importance of having those tough conversations with those who don't always see eye-to-eye with you, being proud of your unique talent, and so much more!

 

Key Takeaways:

[:55] A message from Leadership Nature.

[1:35] A quick intro to Jamahl's background.

[3:50] How did Jamahl get into forestry and natural resources?

[11:40] The foresters that Jamahl knew at the time were very excited to take a high school student under their wing.

[18:50] Jamahl entered into a forestry program early in his education, which helped him get on the ground experience as well as a bit of income.

[28:30] Jamahl was offered a full-time position before his internship was over.

[30:35] What kind of projects did Jamahl work on when he got his first job?

[38:00] Through Jamahl's extensive and diverse experience, he's able to have a deeper understanding of his work and bring a unique perspective to the table.

[41:00] Everyone in your life teaches you what to think but it's not always accurate.

[47:15] Jamahl explains the process of how he got his college degree.

[51:40] What was it like to work as a state forester?

[58:40] What was it like living in Utah as a person of color?

[1:01:20] Jamahl shares a story of a co-worker who once explained to him, 'what it was like to be black.'

[1:10:00] Jamahl explains his experience when he first arrived in Houston, Texas.

[1:18:30] Jamahl met a woman who was so passionate about forestry, but had no clue that you could go to school for it and specialize in different type of forestry!

[1:23:20] Jamahl shares his thoughts on race relation, cultural differences, and diversity.

[1:32:45] How often do you have to worry about someone sexually assaulting you?

[1:38:00] What does Jamahl do as District Ranger?

[1:40:45] How does leadership differ now that Jamahl is in this position?

[1:44:25] Most people think of themselves as hardworking and well-meaning, but they might not have the same definition of those things as you do.

[1:47:30] What kinds of challenges has Jamahl experienced in forestry as a person of color?

[1:50:30] What career advice does Jamahl have for young people?

[2:03:45] We all have unique qualities and it's important to share your art with others.

 

Mentioned in This Episode:

Fs.fed.us

Jamahl on LinkedIn

Pathways Program

Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman