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: