Andy and Frances are in conversation about all thing’s leadership with James Bosch, Environmental Educator.

James views his leadership persona to date as having been molded by his education (both pre-university and also academically with degrees in biology, education and more recently, his PhD looking into further education). He has also worked professionally at executive manager level and in environmental education.

Most recently, James has spent 25 years at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Colorado, specialising in natural, renewable energies. He has been a passionate representative for the Laboratory, helping build new industry from its work.

James recognises the qualities of awareness, presence and influence that he engages throughout his work as his form of leadership. Specifically, he defines leadership as presence, but also the process of evolving to enable responsivity at times of need; showing vulnerability but also resilience; engendering trust; and directness whilst still maintaining compassion.

James’s purpose is to make a difference, to provide a positive contribution. Each moment requires presence to do good, he believes. He is most proud of ‘helping people connect with nature’ and ‘understand the world around them.’ He sleeps well with the knowledge that he facilitates this at all levels, hopefully enhancing activity today, but also stewarding for the future.

To James, ‘aliveness’ is both personal and professional. He feels most ‘alive’ personally when family members are together, settled, happy. Professionally, his ‘aliveness’ is derived from his ability to care for this world, for nature and also therefore the future – ‘being a steward of the Earth.’ Additionally, he feels ‘aliveness’ ensuring the ‘psychological environment is safe’ for those around him to operate in as well – through listening, integrity and honesty. Overall, he summarises true ‘aliveness’ as ‘taking care of this wonderful gift that we have in our planet’ for current and future generations.

The ‘take home’ tips James leaves us with echo with his passion:

•   Know thyself – quoting Lord Byron, “Adversity is the first path to truth.”

•   Ask people how they like to be treated, rather than assume. Be sensitive, share ownership, listen, be inclusive.

•   Practice – prepare, strategy, systems

•   Get rid of the ego – teach & develop those around you

•   Teach accountability and make lives better.

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