Spread Ideas that Work
When I first joined the EPA OIG in 2003, I was young, idealistic, and out to change the world.
I guess not much has changed except for my age! In 2003, Carolyn Copper was a director in my OIG office, and one of few women role models in management positions. Though she didn’t know it, I looked to Carolyn as a model for how to one day become a director in the organization, and it ended up working.
Several promotions and intervening events later, we are now both small business owners. Carolyn is a full-time nature photographer with a passion for wildlife rehabilitation. Last winter, when the pandemic was spreading and we did not yet have vaccines, I purchased one of her photographs and hung it in my home office. It’s a beautiful image of a crystal clear mountain lake. It helps me calm my brain, and even serves as a visual aid for my meditation mantra. You can find my favorite image and many more through her website, https://www.copperrangellc.com/ .
Carolyn also produces and hosts a podcast that gives listeners a glimpse into her photography and wildlife work and showcases her continued commitment to environmental conservation and protection. She generously asked me to participate in the November 1, 2021 edition. We talked about the meaning of “geoliterate” and how my work at the EPA influenced where I’m heading now.
Here is Carolyn’s introduction to the podcast and a brief description of what we discussed.
Spread Ideas That Work
October 31, 2021
I was delighted to be thinking about my career at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) during my latest podcast where I speak with Katie Butler. While I was there, Katie wore a number of hats at the EPA’s Office of Inspector General and was a skilled and effective leader. Post-EPA, Katie recently launched a new business -- The GeoLiteracy Project LLC. The GeoLiteracy Project’s mission is:
“We help environmental leaders optimize their programs and maximize their results. We advise on the best science, strategy, and management techniques to help you save the Earth faster."
If you’re managing or leading any business or organization that’s expected, or required, to show environmental results, head on over to the podcast. Here’s what I asked Katie to share with us.
What led you to The GeoLiteracy Project?
How do you define “geo-literate”?
What should we know about the GeoLiteracy Project?
How did your EPA work influence the GeoLiteracy Project?
I know you’re a supporter of drone technology and the benefits it can provide. Drones are fun – and to my surprise -- bounce-back well from crashes (😊). Importantly, drone mapping and monitoring can provide highly valuable data and information. What are your thoughts?
You just launched your company a few months ago. Can you share any perspective on what your clients are striving for?
I worked with you (Katie) for years on highly challenging, complex and difficult issues, and I know first-hand how confident clients should be in working with you. Anything else we should know about The GeoLiteracy Project?