099: My Legacy Is Not What I Do Now, It's What I Leave for Later

Tina Terrell has worked for the Forest Service over the last 34 years and is currently the Acting Associate Chief for Business Operations in the USDA Forest Service. She also has a Bachelor's Degree in Forest Science from Penn State University. Growing up, Tina was actively discouraged from joining the natural resource profession. She offers advice on today's show on how to overcome the naysayers and strive forward toward a career you're passionate about. Key Takeaways: [:55] A message from Leadership Nature. [1:35] A quick intro about Tina's background. [4:25] How did Tina get into forestry and natural resources? [6:50] When she told her people she wanted to be in natural resources, they actively discouraged her from it. [13:45] Tina discusses what determination means to her and why she has the drive that she has. [19:00] Be a sponge. Don't be afraid to question and learn from everything. [22:35] What advice does Tina have for other people of color who have been actively discouraged to pursue their passion? [29:20] Tina shares some wisdom that she had learned from one of her teachers. [31:50] Don't let other people put boulders in front of you. You can do it! [32:25] Has Tina ever been the 'first and only' female person of color in her career path? [39:25] Tina discusses the kind of legacy she hopes to leave behind. [49:50] What has been the most fun about Tina's career so far? [59:30] Through Tina's work with Job Corps, their facilities now have a natural resource connection at all 25 centers, which helps students get introduced to the importance of forestry and natural resources. [1:02:55] Tina offers advice for students still on the fence about joining the forest service. [1:10:15] Tina recommends some of her favorite forestry books.   Mentioned in This Episode: Usda.gov Tina on LinkedIn Psu.edu Jobcorps.gov 1905 Use Book "The Land Ethic," by Aldo Leopold "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People," by Stephen Covey