Connor Coleman - How to Build a Meaningful Life in the West

Connor Coleman is the founder of Resiliency Lands, a progressive, conservation-minded land management and advisory group committed to promoting ecological and resource resiliency. Prior to starting Resiliency Lands, he held a variety of positions closely connected to the land, jobs that would be on the wish-list of anyone who loves adventure and the American West—wildland firefighter, cowboy, bison manager, and conservationist, just to name a few. Connor is currently based in Colorado’s Roaring Fork Valley, and he resides on a spectacular ranch just outside of Carbondale. • You may be surprised to learn that Connor was not born and raised in the West or on ranches. On the contrary, he grew up in Ohio, went to college in North Carolina, and after paying his dues in east coast conservation and earning two master’s degrees from Duke, he headed West to focus his energy on western landscapes. Thanks to an insatiable curiosity, a rock-solid work ethic, a service mindset, and a willingness to insert himself into new and uncomfortable situations, Connor has carved out a professional niche for himself in Colorado doing rewarding, exciting, and important work. • Connor’s education and unconventional career path can serve as a great blueprint for anyone who loves the American West and wants a life centered around land, conservation, and natural resources. When I was in my early twenties, I would’ve loved to meet a guy like Connor who could point me in the right direction. So in this episode, we talk in depth about his career and his ability to “put himself out there” to create exciting professional opportunities. We dig deep into his thoughts on conservation in the West, as well as issues related to forest fires throughout the country. Connor loves to read and learn, so he also has tons of great book and film recommendations. • We cover a ridiculous amount of information, so be sure to check out the episode notes for the full list of topics we discuss. Enjoy! ••• http://mountainandprairie.com/connor-coleman/ ••• TOPICS DISCUSSED 2:32 - How Connor describes his work 3:55 - Importance of conserving working ranches 7:55 - Grazing as an important part of conservation 13:40 - Examples of some of Resiliency Land’s projects 16:35 - Where did Connor grow up? 18:50 - Connor’s decision to make conservation a career 22:45 - Brief history of NC barbecue 25:00 - Early career in conservation 29:10 - Grad school at Duke 30:30 - Difference between conservation in NC versus CO 32:20 - How easterners misunderstand public lands in the west 33:30 - Time as a wildland firefighter 36:30 - Fire policy in the east versus west 40:00 - Longleaf pine book recommendations 41:15 - Adventures at Camp Lejeune 42:20 - Moving out west to work on ranches 45:40 - Challenges of adjusting to the demands of ranch work 48:30 - Working with bison on the Zapata Ranch 49:50 - Bison and bison book recommendations 55:20 - Transition to the Aspen Valley Land Trust 59:20 - Lesson learned working in conservation in different parts of country 1:01:20 - Thoughts on service and giving back to the community 1:06:15 - Favorite books about the American West 1:10:15 - Favorite films 1:12:50 - Surprising activities 1:14:35 - Craziest experience in the outdoors 1:18:45 - Favorite place in the West 1:20:20 - Biggest challenge facing the West 1:23:00 - Connor’s request of the listeners 1:25:15 - Connect with Connor online 1:25:55 - Bonus book recommendations!