102: Learning to Be Comfortable Being Uncomfortable

This is Vince Keeler’s second guest appearance! Welcome back, Vince. Since the last time we spoke, Vince has taken on a new position as the District Ranger on the Chickasawhay District in the Mississippi National Forest for the U.S. Forest Service. On today’s show, Vince discusses his new role and responsibilities, what it means to be a trailblazer and the importance of a support system that cares for you when you are serving in rural areas.

 

Key Takeaways:

[:55] A message from Leadership Nature.

[1:40] A quick intro about Vince’s background.

[4:15] How did Vince get into forestry and natural resources?

[8:20] What does a District Ranger do and what kind of responsibilities do they have?

[9:20] What makes a job in forestry and natural resources so much fun?

[12:00] What kinds of places has Vince seen since taking on this new position?

[15:00] Vince has noticed that some people of color can be a bit fearful of joining a prominently all-white industry, but there’s more to people than the color of their skin.

[18:05] It’s not always about you, it’s about setting a good trail for the people behind you. Become a trailblazer!

[20:15] It can be lonely. Find a mentor or a friend to help guide you through it.

[26:45] Be open-minded when meeting new people. Find common ground and get to know the person.

[30:50] It’s a priceless experience that you can get to hike a mountain at work!

[33:25] There are so many different ways to make a career in forestry.

[38:10] What did Vince’s parents think about his choice to go into forestry?

[44:00] What’s it like being a minority leader? Vince shares some of his thoughts.

[48:55] Vince explains what he means by, “Be comfortable being uncomfortable.”

 

Mentioned in This Episode:

“S3|E23: Vince Keeler — Let The Experts Be The Experts”

Vince on LinkedIn

Fs.usda.gov