Tailgate Talks

Ethics for State Park Leaders Guest: Brent Leisure, Director of Texas State Parks (ret) Ethics in state parks is rarely about clear-cut right and wrong. More often, leaders find themselves navigating gray areas—where policies, public expectations, resource protection, staff morale, and political realities collide. In this episode of Tailgate Talks, Donald sits down with Brent Leisure for a thoughtful, practical conversation about ethical leadership in state parks. Together, they explore how ethics shows up in everyday decisions—far beyond policy manuals and audit reports—and why culture, consistency, and courage matter more than titles. This episode speaks directly to park professionals who are balancing limited resources, public trust, internal pressures, and stewardship responsibilities. Whether you're a new supervisor or a seasoned leader, this conversation offers tools to help you lead with integrity when the path forward isn't obvious. In This Episode, We Discuss: The difference between ethics and morals in leadership Why most ethical challenges live in the gray area, not black and white How small compromises can quietly shape organizational culture The role of consistency and fairness in building trust with staff Why "this is how we've always done it" can be a warning sign Navigating ethical decisions under pressure from politics, public opinion, and limited resources How leaders can model ethical behavior—even when it's uncomfortable Practical ways to prepare yourself and your team for ethical decision-making before problems arise Key Takeaways: Ethical leadership is less about rules and more about daily choices Culture is shaped by what leaders tolerate, not just what they say Transparency and accountability protect both the organization and the leader When leaders do the right thing early, they avoid much harder decisions later Who This Episode Is For: Park Rangers and frontline staff Supervisors, managers, and administrators Emerging leaders preparing for greater responsibility Anyone serving in public lands, conservation, or recreation 🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts If this episode resonates, please share it with a colleague, mentor, or emerging leader—and keep the conversation going around the tailgate.

In today's episode, Donald sits on the tailgate with Kevin Korenthal, Executive Director of the National Association of Park Foundations, to explore how park professionals and their supporting foundations can work together more effectively, more confidently, and with clearer expectations. Kevin brings decades of nonprofit leadership and association experience to NAPF, and he shares practical guidance on building stronger relationships between park agencies and the foundations that support them. ⭐ In This Episode We discuss: What Park Foundations Actually Do Beyond fundraising — their role in advocacy, community engagement, volunteerism, and long-term resource development. Why Some Partnerships Thrive (and Why Others Struggle) Kevin explains common pitfalls between parks and foundations and how communication, clarity, and expectations can make or break the relationship. How Park Professionals Can Better Support Their Foundations Simple actions staff can take that dramatically increase trust and effectiveness. Board Development & Governance Tips Recruiting the right volunteers, setting expectations, and avoiding the "warm body on a board" trap. How to Communicate Needs Without Making "The Big Ask" Every Time Tools and practices for creating open, ongoing dialogue. What Foundations Wish Park Managers Understood Kevin offers honest, actionable insights that managers can implement right away. Training, Mentorship, and the Importance of a Shared Mission How park professionals can build a stronger culture of stewardship around their foundation. 🎙️ About Kevin Korenthal Kevin Korenthal, CAE, is the Executive Director of the National Association of Park Foundations, an organization dedicated to strengthening parks through strong, ethical, and effective supporting foundations. He brings deep expertise in nonprofit management, board development, leadership training, and fostering healthy partnerships between agencies and their philanthropic arms. Learn more at www.the-napf.org. 🌄 Why This Episode Matters Park Foundations are powerful multipliers — but only when the park and the foundation operate as partners, not separate planets. This episode equips park professionals with the understanding and tools they need to: Build trust Improve communication Engage board members Strengthen fundraising capacity Create a positive, lasting partnership If you work with a Friends group, foundation, or nonprofit partner — this conversation is essential listening. 🔗 Connect with Kevin Website: www.the-napf.org Email: [email protected]

In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode, Donald sits down with Veronica Greear, Area 6 Manager for Tennessee State Parks, to talk about something every park professional needs to understand — creating programs and experiences that truly welcome visitors with disabilities. Veronica brings a rare and powerful dual perspective: She's a seasoned park ranger, interpreter, manager, and leader… and she's the mother of a daughter with Down Syndrome. Together, we explore: What Down Syndrome actually is — and what it isn't Why many park programs unintentionally exclude people with disabilities How simple changes can make programs more welcoming and comfortable What "people-first" programming looks like in real park settings The emotional side of being a parent and a park professional How staff training, visitor communication, and program design can evolve Practical ideas you can implement immediately in your park The importance of patience, empathy, and flexibility in visitor service What park leaders should be thinking about as they develop future programs Veronica also shares: Her journey through a 20-year park career The day she literally went into labor at a state park Lessons her daughter has taught her that apply to visitor engagement What she wishes every ranger, interpreter, and supervisor understood This conversation isn't about paperwork, ADA compliance, or checking a box. It's about seeing people, building trust, and making our parks better for every visitor who walks through our gates. Whether you manage programs, lead staff, or interact with visitors daily, this episode will change how you think about accessibility and inclusion. [email protected] [email protected]

Episode summary Donald sits down with longtime friend and retired District Manager Warren Poplin to unpack how to plan successful "music in the park" events—from picking the right artist for the vibe, to power, staging, permits, and the little courtesies that turn musicians into repeat partners. It's a nuts-and-bolts, field-tested guide for park pros, friends groups, and community partners. Why this matters Live music can be a low-cost, high-impact way to activate parks, diversify audiences, and build community pride. Doing it well protects resources, supports artists, and keeps visitors coming back. Guest Warren Poplin — Retired State Park District Manager, frequent Tailgate Talks guest, and seasoned event operator with decades of on-the-ground experience coordinating concerts and community programs in public spaces. Key takeaways Match music to mission & moment: Align genre/energy to the event's purpose (family day, evening picnic, heritage fest, trail run finish, holiday lighting, etc.). Right-sized production wins: Small parks and small budgets do best with solo/duo/acoustic; bigger draws require a defined stage, power plan, and crowd layout. Infrastructure is everything: Flat surface, weather plan, safe electrical, clear load-in, and simple signage solve 90% of headaches. Respect the resource: Volume limits, turf/tree protection, cable ramping, and wildlife sensitivity keep the park first. Treat artists like partners: Good comms, parking, water, green room space, and timely payment = great shows and good word of mouth. Clarity in contracts: Scope, set length, sound limits, cancellation/weather clauses, insurance, and deliverables prevent surprises. Neighbors count: Noise windows, traffic plans, and end-times maintain community support. Practical planning checklist Program & booking Define goal, audience, and "feel" (acoustic picnic, bluegrass evening, jazz brunch, cultural showcase, etc.) Shortlist artists who fit family-friendly content and your decibel/time constraints Verify W-9/insurance if required; confirm set length, breaks, and backline needs Site & layout Flat, stable performance area (stage, deck, or ground with mats) Audience zones, ADA routes, shade/shelter, and emergency access kept clear Cable ramps/ties; protect trees, turf, irrigation heads Power & sound Dedicated 20A circuits near stage; no daisy-chain madness If using generators: inverter/quiet type, grounded, away from audience Agree on a max SPL and a soundcheck window Lighting (for evenings) Minimum: performer wash + audience path lighting + exit/parking illumination Avoid spill into sensitive habitat/roosting areas Permits & safety Noise variance if needed; ranger/volunteer staffing plan Weather thresholds (lightning, wind, heavy rain) and pause/cancel script First aid, radios, and "show stop" authority identified Hospitality & courtesies Reserved parking near load-in; wagon or cart available Water, bathrooms, and a simple green room/tent Small thank-you: park swag, day passes, photos, quick thank-you post Comms & promotion Clear run-of-show to artists and staff Social posts with artist tag, schedule, what to bring (chairs/blankets), pet rules On-site signage for stage, restrooms, and rules Budget Artist fee (with deposit), sound/lighting, staff/overtime, marketing, contingency (10–15%) In-kind partners: local music store, friends group, tourism board Pro tips from the field Have a Plan B (and C): Shade tent + quick tarp kit + lightning delay protocol. Keep it simple: Fewer inputs = faster soundcheck and fewer failures. Front-load courtesy: A friendly load-in + cold water + on-time pay buys endless goodwill. Think exits: End on time; light the walks and parking; stagger teardown vs. visitor egress. Capture content: Get 3–5 photos/video clips for your next promo reel (with permissions).

In this thought-provoking episode, Donald welcomes back his good friend and frequent guest, Phil Gaines, former Director of South Carolina State Parks and a trusted voice in the world of leadership and legacy. Phil has been on the show several times before, and each time he brings fresh wisdom, humor, and practical insights. This conversation is no different—it's a deep dive into what it means to build, live, and leave a legacy. Legacy is a big word, but it's not something we get to write for ourselves. As Phil reminds us, history decides your legacy. It's defined by the choices you make, the people you impact, and the influence you carry into the lives of others. More than a title or an accomplishment, legacy is your story in action—it's the way others remember how you made them feel and the lessons you passed along. Donald and Phil explore the idea that just like nature, our lives and careers are constantly changing. Change isn't something to fear—it's a natural and necessary part of growth. They challenge listeners to become lifelong learners who are willing to adapt, pivot, and even reinvent themselves when needed. Whether it's reading a book, listening to a podcast, or learning from a colleague, every new lesson is an opportunity to "upgrade" who we are and how we lead. The conversation also touches on flexibility and resilience—two qualities that great leaders share. Just as ecosystems thrive by adapting to shifting conditions, so do leaders who remain open, curious, and humble. By consistently tweaking and refining our approach, we not only grow ourselves but also leave a stronger impact on those around us. Phil and Donald's back-and-forth is both inspiring and practical, filled with personal stories and take-home reminders. They remind us that legacy isn't about perfection or permanence—it's about progress, influence, and the willingness to keep learning and improving. Key Themes Discussed Defining Legacy: Why it's less about what you claim and more about how others experience your leadership. The Power of Lifelong Learning: How curiosity fuels personal and professional growth. Reinvention & Adaptability: Practical insights on pivoting, upgrading, and remaining relevant in changing times. Influence Over Achievement: Why the lives you touch will always speak louder than the awards you win. Nature as a Teacher: Lessons from the natural world that mirror our own need for change and resilience. Why This Conversation Matters Whether you're leading a team, serving your community, or simply navigating your own journey, this episode will encourage you to look at your legacy not as a final destination but as an ongoing process. Legacy is written every day—in how you show up, how you learn, how you adapt, and how you lift others along the way. Phil and Donald leave listeners with this challenge: Keep learning, keep growing, and keep shaping a legacy that others will be proud to remember.