93 Col. Joel Wilkinson (Ret.) – Maine – Part II

Joel Wilkinson spent 28 years serving the state of Maine, including twelve years as Colonel of the Maine Warden Service. Now retired, Col. Wilkinson sits down with Wayne to reflect on an extraordinary career that began when he was just a teen. In this episode, we discuss his swift rise through the ranks, a television show that almost wasn’t, the challenges and rewards the outdoors can provide, and some valuable lessons learned along the way. Our Sponsors:  Thin Green Line Podcast Don Noyes Chevrolet Sovereign Sportsman Solutions “A Cowboy in the Woods” Book Hunt of a Lifetime Maine's Operation Game Thief Wildlife Heritage Foundation of NH International Wildlife Crimestoppers Here’s what we discuss: Captain to Colonel Remembering Maj. Gregg Sanborn  Choosing quality leaders  Every day was an education We all started in the same place Empowering people through Operation Game Thief (OGT) The wall of shame Fundraising to offer larger rewards International Wildlife Crimestoppers provided fresh ideas The Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact OGT trailers manned at all times; “we have to tell the stories.” Blazing the North Woods Law trail  Turned down the original request  What are our fears? What are our goals? It had to be authentic without being disrespectful A gentlemen’s agreement Popularity brought some unexpected situations Ending the Maine story in the best way possible Didn’t want to be seen as making money The diversity educated the public Inspiring kids to become game wardens Passing the torch to New Hampshire The North Woods Throwdown Back Woods Law?!? Bluefin tuna fishing takes more than skill You have to do a lot of little things right It’s all about respect for the animal Confidence comes with experience Plan to be successful The abundance mentality Life after retirement Credits Hosts: Wayne Saunders and John Nores Producer: Jay Ammann Art & Design: Ashley Hannett Research / Content Coordinator: Stacey DesRoches Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Google Waypoint Stitcher TuneIn Megaphone Find More Here: Website Warden’s Watch / TGL Store Facebook Facebook Fan Page Instagram Twitter YouTube RSS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices