Welcome to Tailgate Talks, where we gather around the tailgate to talk about the places we love, the people who steward them, and the leadership it takes to make it all happen. I'm your host, Donald Forgione—and today is a special day. This is Episode 100. That's right—Tailgate Talks has officially hit triple digits. When I launched this podcast, m…

In this follow-up conversation, Donald Forgione reconnects with Minnesota's State Park Managers, Katie Foshay (Tettegouche & George H. Crosby Manitou State Parks) and Nate Springer (Gooseberry Falls State Park), to continue the insightful dialogue on the challenges, lessons, and successes of stepping into senior park leadership. Building on their p…

In this episode of Tailgate Talks, host Donald Forgione welcomes back Phil Gaines, retired Director of South Carolina State Parks, for a timely and insightful conversation on the delicate art of community engagement. Together, they explore the techniques and strategies needed to facilitate stakeholder meetings—especially when working with groups wh…

In this episode of Tailgate Talks, Donald Forgione welcomes two rising leaders in Minnesota’s state park system—Nate Springer, Park Supervisor at Gooseberry Falls State Park, and Katie Foshay, Park Manager of Tettegouche and George H. Crosby Manitou State Parks. Nate and Katie sit down for a candid conversation about what it’s really like to step i…

In this captivating episode, host Donald Forgione is joined by Phil Gaines, the retired Director of South Carolina State Parks and a current Professor of Practice at Clemson University's Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management. Together, they embark on an insightful journey through three of Florida's remarkable state parks: Devil's …

Director to Director: Stakeholder Engagement Join host Donald Forgione on the Tailgate as he welcomes Craig Seaver, retired Park Ranger and former Director of Virginia State Parks, for an insightful conversation on the power of community engagement. With decades of experience in stakeholder relations, Craig shares proven strategies for building str…

On this episode of Tailgate Talks, we dive deep into avalanche rescue and survival training. Rich Gummersall from Idaho State Parks, joins Donald Forgione on the Tailgate to discuss this important topic. Whether you're a first responder, outdoor guide, or backcountry adventurer, understanding avalanche safety can mean the difference between life an…

In this episode of Tailgate Talks with Donald Forgione, we dive into the art of the job interview from the applicant’s perspective. Whether you're applying for a park ranger position, a leadership role, or any other job in the field, this episode is packed with expert insights to help you shine. Special guest Tim Dyck is a seasoned HR expert and sh…

Hiring the right people is one of the most important decisions any organization makes. In the latest episode of Tailgate Talks, I sat down with Tim Dyck from Best Culture Solutions, an expert in hiring and employee selection, to dive deep into the hiring process. We explored the key strategies that hiring managers need to know to attract and select…

Learn about the great things the Ranger Association of California (PRAC) is providing to park professionals. Matt Cerkel, President of PRAC, is the Senior Park Ranger at Marin Municipal Water District and sits on the Tailgate with Donald Forgione to discuss this critical work. [email protected] [email protected]…

David Landis Joins Donald Forgione on the Tailgate to discuss the power of planning for leaders. Good planning provides confidence in yourself, your team, and your leadership team. David's 30 years of experience as a Firefighter and paramedic have galvanized for him the importance of proper planning. With his business, "Playing with Possible, LLC,"…

Welcome to this special episode of Tailgate Talks! As we close out another incredible year, I wanted to take some time to reflect, celebrate, and look ahead. This year has been a whirlwind of growth and connections. I'm genuinely amazed at the success of Tailgate Talks. Hosting this podcast has introduced me to many incredible people, and I'm honor…

Greg Snider joins Donald Forgione on the Tailgate to discuss the Southwest Parks and Recreation Training Institute (SWPRTI). Greg is a long time retired employee of Oklahoma State Parks and a member of the SWPRTI. Their 69th Conference will be heled the first week of February at Sequoyah State Park in Oklahoma. [email protected] donald@tailgat…

Ky Harkey joins Donald Forgione on the Tailgate to discuss their mutual love of Interpretation. Ky is the Founder/Principal of the Visitor Experience. Ky is a master storyteller and serves parks nationwide with all levels of Interpretation. Join Donald and Ky on the Tailgate to discuss the importance of Interpretation. [email protected] d…

Jody Mayberry, the Host of the popular podcast The Park Leaders Show, returns to join Donald Forgione on the Tailgate to discuss getting and being a mentor. Donald shares how Jody is a mentor who taught him the ropes of being a podcaster. Join them as they discuss the power of getting and being a mentor. [email protected] [email protected]…

Tim Dyck joins Donald Forgione on the Tailgate to discuss Culture In The Workplace. Tim is an expert on workplace culture and owns Best Culture Solutions and The World of Work podcast. [email protected] [email protected] Donald Forgione

David Landis joins Donald Forgione again on the Tailgate to discuss the importance of Caring For The Caretakers. Maintaining your team's Mental Health during a Crisis Response is imperative for the responder. Compassion Fatigue is real and can be mitigated if properly trained. This episode hopes to discuss the importance of this reality on the Tail…

Rosie Forgione, Stacie Linley, and Tom Linley joined me on the Tailgate to discuss our final thoughts on our trip to Alaska. We spent four months, 12,000 miles, 2 RV's, and shared a lifetime of memories together. Join us on the Tailgate for North To Alaska IV. [email protected] Donald Forgione

Matt Cerkel joins Donald Forgione on the tailgate to discuss Rangering Past And Present. Matt is a Park Ranger and the President of the Park Rangers Association of California. Join them on the tailgate to learn how the Park Ranger Association of California is helping the profession. www.calranger.org https://www.calranger.org/certifications.html ht…

Ricky Gease, Director of Alaska State Parks, joins Donald Forgione on the Tailgate to discuss Alaska State Parks. Ricky hosted Donald several times during his summer in Alaska and dives into what makes Alaska different and what is consistent with all recreation and park professionals. [email protected] [email protected]…

Warren Poplin Joins Donald Forgione on the Tailgate to discuss Volunteer Management. Warren is the retired District Manager with the Florida Park Service with years of practical experience managing an extensive volunteer program.By Donald Forgione

Mike Simmons joins Donald Forgione on the Tailgate to discuss Problem-Solving, Decision Making, Communications, and Achieving Results. It’s a great conversation that leaders need to hear. Mike helps business leaders and founders FIND Clarity, STOP Second-Guessing the Work They Do, and take the Next Logical Step by making fearless decisions. He is a…

Rosie Forgione, Stacie Linley, and Tom Linley join Donald Forgione on the Tailgate for the third installment of North To Alaska. If you have not listened to the first two episodes, you might want to check them out before listening to this episode. Enjoy. [email protected] Donald Forgione

Roger Phelps, with STIHL Inc., Joins Donald Forgione on the Tailgate to discuss their relationship with the recreation and conservation communities. Roger Phelps joined STIHL Inc. in 2001 as the Corporate Communications Manager. In that position, he is responsible for creating and telling the STIHL story through integrated event marketing, strategi…

Rodney Franklin, Director of Texas State Parks, joins Donald Forgione on the Tailgate to discuss what is next for Texas State Parks. Coming off a successful Centennial celebration, winning the gold medal, and the passage of Proposition 14, establishing a $1 billion trust fund to acquire and develop new state parks across Texas. The transformative i…

Derek Christoffel joins Donald Forgione on the Tailgate for an exciting ride-along discussion. Derek is a Park Ranger with the Plymouth County Conservation Board. Plymouth County Conservation manages over 2,700 acres of oak timber and river bottom forest, native and reconstructed prairies, wetlands, ponds, and lakes. With numerous miles of unpaved …

Pat Wright joins Donald Forgione on the Tailgate to discuss park management. Pat is the Park Manager of Montgomery Bell State Park located SW of Nashville, TN. Pat is a 40-year veteran of Tennessee State Parks. [email protected] [email protected] Donald Forgione

Jessica Dolin joins Donald Forgione on the Tailgate to discuss the benefits of gift shops within our operations. Jessica is the Retail Merchandizer for West Virginia State Parks. [email protected] [email protected] Donald Forgione

Rosie Forgione, Stacie Linley, and Tom Linley join Donald Forgione on the Tailgate for an update on their journey to Alaska. [email protected] Donald Forgione

Brent Leisure returns to join Donald Forgione on the Tailgate for a discussion from Director to Director. Brent is the retired Director of Texas State Parks, and Donald is the retired Director of Florida Stae Park. Both gentlemen rose through the ranks in their respective large park systems. [email protected] [email protected]…

Ludie Bond and Ash Ehlers join Donald Forgione on the Tailgate to discuss the benefits of family members working in the same department. Ludie is a Wildland Mitigation Specialist and a Public Information Specialist for the Florida Forest Service. Her Daughter Ash Ehlers is a Forest Ranger with the Florida Forest Service. Many trades have been passe…

Kyle Bernis joins Donald Forgione on the Tailgate to discuss Safety In Action. Safety is an essential aspect of our day-to-day operations. [email protected] Donald Forgione

Tom Linley joins Donald Forgione on the Tailgate to discuss their trip to Alaska. Tom is a returning guest, seasoned park professional, and full-time RVer. They discuss the adventure and the challenges of embarking on this long trip. North to Alaska is a song by Johnny Horton that was popular in the 50’s. [email protected] donald@tailgate-tal…

Lauren Emmert and Cole Ross join Donald Forgione on the Tailgate to discuss generational differences and Similarities. Lauren is a Park Ranger at Winchester Lake State Park, and Cole is a Park Ranger at Round Lake State Park. Both of these park professionals work for Idaho State Parks. [email protected] [email protected] donald@ta…

Richard Edwards joins Donald Forgione on the Tailgate to discuss the personal, professional, and common sense side of the American Disability Act, Unerversital Assccesability, and just doing the right thing. Ric is the ADA Director for the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and is a wheelchair user. Ric’s insight into this critical subject is …

David Landis returns to joins Donald Forgione with a Tailgate Takeover to discuss Leadership. David is a retired Fighter and Paramedic from Indianapolis, Indiana. His company, Playing with Possibilities, provides strategic growth advisory services and coaches for personal transformation. Find him on LinkedIn or at [email protected] donald@tailgat…

Angelina Stancampiano joins Donald Forgione on the Tailgate to discuss Tribal Relations. Angelina is the Shoshone District Interpretive Ranger for Wyoming State Parks and a Tribal Member. Angelina and Donald share experiences and suggestions to start, and grow relationships with tribal entities. [email protected] [email protected]…

David Landis joins Donald Forgione on the Tailgate to discuss Self Mastering Skills To Live By. David is a retired Fighter and Paramedic from Indianapolis, Indiana. His company, Playing with Possibilities, provides strategic growth advisory services and coaches for personal transformation. Find him on LinkedIn or at davidladis.me david@davidlandis.…

Join Donald Forgione on the Tailgate as we delve into the crucial work of Park Ranger Associations. These associations serve as pillars of support for park professionals nationwide, offering various forms of assistance and fostering a sense of community among those dedicated to preserving our natural treasures. [email protected]…

Warren Poplin returns to join Donald Forgione on the Tailgate to discuss the Principles of Authentic Leadership. Warren is a retired District Manager for Florida State Parks and a life long conservation and recreation professional. He is a former Coast Guardsman who lead his team to success during many stressful situations. An Authentic Leader who …

Warriors To Rangers; Service To Service Are you finding it challenging to fill your vacant positions? Join Eric Hougland and Donald Forgione on the tailgate as they discuss the Skill Bridge program. This program is provided to service men and women to help transition them from military life to civilian life. Eric is the Professional Development Coo…

The Staircase To Stewardship Concept is a great way to think about visitor engagement. Ky Harkey joins Donald Forgione on the Tailgate to discuss this engaging concept. Ky Harkey founded The Visitor Experience to spread joy and protect public lands through wildly successful visitor experiences. Ky honed his approach to Visitor Experience Design dur…

Join Dani Schneider on the Tailgate with Donald Forgione to discuss Leadership and the State park leadership School. Dani is a Regional Operation Manager for Vermont State Parks and this years Class Representative for the State Park Leadership School.By Donald Forgione

Join Donald Forgione as he sits on the Tailgate again with South Carolina State Park's Book Club. Members of the Book Club include James Revis, Regional Chief; Alexandra Mariona, Assistant Park Manager; Michelle Cunningham, Park Manager; Nate Johnson, Park Manager; Kathryn Gompers, Park Manager. The Book Club is reviewing The Ecotourism Provider's …

Join Donald Forgione on the Tailgate as he learns about South Carolina State Park's Book Club. Members of the Book Club include James Revis, Regional Chief; Alexandra Mariona, Assistant Park Manager; Michelle Cunningham, Park Manager; Nate Johnson, Park Manager; Kathryn Gompers Park Manager. The Book Club is reviewing the book "The Ecotourism Provi…

Donald Forgione's old truck is at the Kentucky State Park Managers Conference at Jenny Wiles State Resort Park. Kentucky State Parks is celebrating their 100 year anniversary. Donald Forgione will be the Keynote Speaker at the conference. Leadership is so important in any organization and Donald will share his thoughts on the importance of Trust, C…

Jerry Dugan joins Donald Forgione on the Tailgate to discuss overcoming challenges and finding fulfillment beyond the rut. Let's face it: Sometimes, We find ourselves in a rut and need practical solutions to climb out. Jerry is the Author of the book Beyond The Rut and the host of the popular podcast of the same name. Join Jerry and Donald on the T…

Linda Lanterman joins Donald Forgione on the Tailgate to discuss a new Kansas State Park. Acquiring property for a new or existing state park is not an easy task. Even if the property is donated, the process can be daunting. Linda is the Director of Kansas State Parks and shares her journey and excitement of a new State Park.…

Lauren V. Davis joins Donald Forgione on the Tailgate to discuss the importance of branding to your operation. Lauren is the owner of Lauren V. Davis Creative and works with entrepreneurs and organizations with branding expertise. She is a popular speaker and the host of the Real Personal Branding Podcast. Lauren can help your park, friends group, …

Tommy Turk Joins Donald Forgione on the tailgate to discus the great benefits of hiring seasoned workers. Todays hiring challenges call for a renewed focus on older workers with a lifetime of experiences. Come sit on the Tailgate with Tommy and Donald.By Donald Forgione