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