{"type":"rich","version":"1.0","provider_name":"Transistor","provider_url":"https://transistor.fm","author_name":"Ignite Podcast ","title":"Cole Payne","html":"","width":"100%","height":180,"duration":2405,"description":"In this insightful episode, Dana Dykema engages in a compelling conversation with Cole Payne, a dedicated leader within the Texas Brigades program. Cole shares his remarkable journey from being a participant to becoming the president of the board, illustrating the profound impact the program has had on his life and career.The Texas Brigades is a nonprofit organization committed to wildlife conservation and leadership development for youth. Cole explains how the program offers a unique blend of hands-on experiences, leadership training, and public speaking opportunities, all designed to empower young people and connect them with nature. Participants, known as cadets, engage in intensive camps where they learn about wildlife conservation, land stewardship, and essential life skills. These camps are not just about education; they are transformative experiences that foster personal growth and community leadership.Cole reflects on his own experiences, recounting how the program opened doors for him both personally and professionally. He shares anecdotes about the friendships and networks he built through the Brigades, emphasizing the program's role in shaping future conservation leaders. The skills learned at the camps, such as teamwork, public speaking, and leadership, have lasting impacts that extend beyond the outdoors, preparing participants for diverse career paths.Dana and Cole delve into the broader implications of the Texas Brigades, discussing its potential to inspire similar initiatives across the country. They highlight the importance of connecting young people with nature, especially in today's fast-paced, technology-driven world. Cole passionately describes how witnessing a sunrise or experiencing the quiet beauty of nature can be life-changing for many participants, some of whom have never had such opportunities before.The conversation also touches on the program's commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. Cole explains how the Texas Brigades ensures...","thumbnail_url":"https://img.transistorcdn.com/GBZ1UTwbGyzAaTN8mOTugP7b0OooqvpjrZM2b0jQSwQ/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:400/h:400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS9hNDI3/YjU4ZGE3MmEyZmEx/NmE5ZTNjMmQ4YzE5/NTkxYi5qcGc.webp","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_height":300}