Tailgate Talks
Welcome to Tailgate Talks, weekly talks with former Park Ranger Donald Forgione. Join Donald on the back of his tailgate for a conversation about conservation, recreation, business, and more.
Episodes
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 per...
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,...
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...
Herding Thunder: Inside the Buffalo Roundup
Every year, tens of thousands of visitors gather to witness one of the most dramatic wildlife events in America: the Buffalo Roundup. In this episode of Tailgate Talks, we go behind the scenes to uncover what it takes to move hundreds of bison safely and efficiently across the ...
Donald Forgione — Former Director of 175 Florida State Parks, with 40+ years in ecotourism, leadership, and public service. Now a business owner, speaker, and coach, Donald connects leadership lessons from nature to business. Mike Simmons — Founder of Find My Catalyst, leadership coach, and sales strategist, helping people identify and act on their catalyst for change.
Three Key Quotes
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Donald Forgione: "Trust is the key to ab...
Episode Summary
In this episode of Tailgate Talks, Donald Forgione sits down with Nick Wiley, of Ducks Unlimited (DU), to explore how one of the nation's most recognized conservation nonprofits is partnering with public agencies, private land...
In this episode of Tailgate Talks, Donald Forgione sits down with longtime friend and fire professional Zach Prusak to discuss the evolving world of online fire training. With decades of boots-on-the-ground experience and a passion for meaningful instruction, Zach shares how virtual learning can be effective, engaging, and...
🎙 Tailgate Talks with Donald Forgione
Episode Title: Running In When Others Run Out: Leadership in Emergency Management
Guest: Brian Pinson
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 l...
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),...
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 meeting...
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.
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...
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 and death. Our guest, Rish Gummersall, shares expert insights on how to prepare for, re...
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 shares invaluable tips on preparing for an intervie...
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 top talent, from crafting effective job postings to conducting interviews that revea...
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.
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...
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