In this episode, host Raul Rodarte Sciuto sits down with John Whittler, Executive Director of Ogallala Commons, to explore his inspiring journey from growing up on a farm in southeast Colorado to leading a multi-state nonprofit focused on revitalizing rural communities.
John shares his unconventional pathâopting out of college to pursue entrepreneurship, finding meaning through work and family, and eventually joining Ogallala Commons to empower youth and small towns across the High Plains. He discusses the value of integrating work and life, the importance of an entrepreneurial mindset, and how his personal philosophy around meaning (inspired by Viktor Franklâs Manâs Search for Meaning) influences his leadership.
The episode also delves into:
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The mission and multi-state reach of Ogallala Commons
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Key program areas: leadership development, natural resource stewardship, and local food systems
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What it means to build âlife-givingâ rural communities
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The importance of non-traditional education and youth mentorship
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And yesâwhy some people know him simply as âSandalsâ
This is a heartfelt, insightful conversation about leadership, learning, and living with purposeâwhether you’re in boots or Birkenstocks.
đ§ Now streaming wherever you get your podcasts.
đ Learn more about Ogallala Commons at ogallalacommons.org
đ Brought to you by the Amarillo Area Foundation.
