Tailgate Talks

Warren Poplin joins Donald again on the Tailgate to share 10 Interview Techniques That Work. These two have successfully built high performing teams using these skills. Come sit on the Tailgate to discuss topics that are important to you. 

Joni Ellis shares her passion for the conservancy of migratory birds. She is the founder and Executive Director of Optics For The Tropics. This non-profit organization provides binoculars and supplies to Caribbean, Central, and South American biologists, researchers, teachers, and students studying birds. This conversation on the tailgate gives an insight into her work and the trips she leads to c...

Supervisors, Managers, and Leaders will want to listen to this episode. Donald Forgione  is in his 40th Year of experience of park management. Thirty-five of them, he has been interviewing potential employees from entry level to directors. He shares his 10 interview techniques that have produced outstanding teams. Come sit on the tailgate and enjoy a conversation with Donald Forgione. 

Consistent nomenclature is essential for communicating with your staff and visitors. It is easy for slang, nicknames, or old names of buildings and places to be in our operations. This is especially true in older facilities or properties that had different uses in the past. 

Phil Gaines joins Donald Forgione on the Tailgate to discuss the importance of continuing education, training, and personal growth. There is great value in being with like-minded individuals throughout our careers. This conversation on the tailgate encourages us to seek opportunities to better ourselves by reading, listing to podcast, or attending a conference. 

Emergencies can happen at any moment and it is essential that a plan is devised before it happens. Inviting the first responders within and outside of your operation is crucial in developing a good plan. 

Ludie Bond with the Florida Forest Service joins Donald Forgione for a great discussion on Prescribe Fire. As a Wildfire Mitigation Specialist, she has spent her career caring for forestland and the communities around them. join them for a fascinating world of Prescribed Fire. 

Reading the signs of our environmental landscape can lead to historical discoveries right under our feet. Join Donald Forgione as he explores the lay of the land in search of clues about past civilizations. 

Scott Spaulding sits on the tailgate with us today to discuss the magic to visitors of a sense of place. When historic site managers maintain historic viewsheds, grow heirloom varieties of food, and pays attention to authentic details, it can enhance the visitors experience. 

Excepting complaints is not easy, but with practice, you can learn to accept them with empathy and professionalism. saying Thank You is an excellent way for your visitor to know that you have heard and accepted their complaint or suggestion. 

Craig Seaver joins us again to continue exploring Rangering" and introducing "Ranger First." Many agencies have adopted the Ranger First Philosophy, which continues to gain popularity nationwide. 

Visitors to parks, forest and natural areas are often on vacation and do not have a care in the world. They are often focused on enjoying and spending time with their family and friends and their next adventure. Donald Forgione shares an idea from "The Ecotourism Provider's Handbook, 180 Techniques For An Exceptional Park, Preserve, Or Nature-Based Attraction" he co-wrote with Vincent P. Magnini,...

Craig Seaver joins us for a fascinating walk through time as he shares his knowledge of the origins of Land and Wildlife Managers. From biblical references to present day, Park Rangers, Forest Rangers, Wildlife Managers, and many other positions in our profession will be able to trace there roots back in time. Craig highlights the pioneers in the conservation and recreation movements. 

During this episode of Tailgate Talks Donald discusses the surprising contrast between two parks and how it affects your visitor experience. The section of road between the highway and the ranger station really sets the stage for the visitor's experience. It is important to audit these signs in this important section of the park drive. Auditing signs is a way to improve the park experience. Issues...

"Instill the art of knowing your surroundings and being keen to their functionality, utilizing all your senses to enhance the maintenance of your parks and facilities." - Warren Poplin Warren Poplin is a retired United States Coast Guardsman and Florida Park Service Bureau Chief with 34 years of experience. He has an extensive background in maintenance, resource management, customer service, and l...

"It is the staff's attitude and not the visitor's mobility that sometimes defines the limits of accessibility." When his elderly mother's mobility impedes their visit to a state park, Donald must rely on the compassionate staff to help her navigate the challenging terrain, inspiring him to use his experience to create an accessible eco-tourism operation. Donald learned about accessibility of natur...

"Take the leap and never stop making a difference - that's what Tailgate Talks is all about!" - Jody Maberry Welcome to Tailgate Talks with Donald Forgione. This podcast will be an inspiring and insightful journey about taking an active role in conservation and recreation. In this first episode, Donald welcomes Jody Maberry, an experienced podcast host and park leader. Together we explore the powe...