097: Do Your Best; The Rest Falls on Me

Ron Smith is a forester, teacher, pastor, and a leader. Ron has served as a Forester, District Ranger, and Administration Staff Officer (to name a few) during his 30+ years of being in the Forest Service and now serves as the Director of Forestry Natural Resources for Tuskegee University. On today's show, Ron shares his extensive experience of guiding and leading young students into the forestry field, how to navigate today's political climate when it comes to introducing more diversity into the industry, and shares some rewarding experiences he's had while in the Forest Service.   Key Takeaways: [:55] A message from Leadership Nature. [1:35] A quick intro about Ron's background. [3:05] How did Ron get into natural resources? [8:45] After 30 years, what kinds of things did Ron do for the Forest Service? [11:35] What was Ron's first leadership position like? [16:35] People might see the environmental groups as a negative aspect of the job, but Ron believes since they're members of the public, they should still be treated with respect. [19:15] How can you 'posture' yourself effectively as a public servant? [28:15] What's been the most fun or challenging part of Ron's career so far? [36:00] How can the forestry industry make it more welcoming for people of color? [44:30] Do people of color see this profession — this line of outdoor work — negatively? [51:55] Ron recommends a couple of must-read books!   Mentioned in This Episode: Tuskegee.edu MANRRS.org The Greening of America, by Charles A. Reich The Autobiography of Malcolm X, by Malcolm X Future Shock, by Alvin Toffler Test of Faith, the movie