“You don’t have to come from parks to lead in parks. But you do have to embrace the culture, listen, and lead with purpose.”
Every so often, an email lands in my inbox that reminds me why I started this show in the first place. In this episode, Phil Gaines and I respond to a thoughtful message from Freddie, a new park manager in New York who got the job without prior experience working in parks. It’s a bold move and it sparked a conversation I think every agency should be having.
Do you need park experience to lead in parks? Phil answers that with a confident “no.” What you do need, however, is respect for the culture, a learner’s mindset, and a commitment to staying close to your point of service.
We talk about how fresh perspectives can benefit long-standing agencies. Coming from a Boy Scout or YMCA background (like Freddie) can be just as valuable as traditional ranger experience, maybe more so when you add diverse viewpoints and leadership styles to the mix.
I reflect on my own journey, moving from a financial analyst to a park ranger, and how that outsider lens helped me question outdated habits and reinforce purpose-driven work.
Freddie’s attitude reminded me why this show matters. If we can support even one new leader in shaping their vision and staying aligned with the mission, that’s a win. This episode is a reminder that leadership isn’t about where you’ve been; it’s about how you show up for the people and places you serve.
Resources
https://parkleaders.com/about/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/theparkleaders/
Notable Moments
[00:02:00] Starting out as a seasonal worker builds a foundation
[00:03:40] Promoting park managers without prior experience
[00:05:18] Success stories of hiring from outside the park system
[00:08:48] Benefits of diverse backgrounds in leadership
[00:14:50] Importance of honoring legacy while bringing fresh ideas
[00:21:34] Staying close to your point of service
[00:23:00] Advice from Lee Cockerell: take notes and observe early