We recently had the chance to connect with Jim Bartoo and have shared our conversation below.
Jim, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I recently organized a “dive-in” movie night for the neighborhood in which I live. I set up a screen and projector at the community pool and we had pizza, chips, fruit, dessert, etc. This was focused on elementary school children and their families but everyone was invited and we did have a few no-kid couples and empty nesters (like me and my wife).
Growing up in a similar sub-division, I’ve always felt strongly about the importance of knowing the people who live around you. While this is easier when you have mutual connections like kids the same age or attending the same school, it becomes more difficult as you age. Socialization nurtures conhesiveness and bringing neighbors together like this gives me joy.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Jim Bartoo, Marketing and Public Relations Director for Nashville Zoo. The Zoo is one of the most visited attractions in Middle Tennessee drawing about 1.4 million guests annually. As a non-profit organization, Nashville Zoo’s mission is to inspire a culture of understand and discovery of our natural word through conservation, innovation and leadership.
Basically, my job is to make sure the Zoo is a top consideration when people are:
– looking for ways to spend their hard-earned leisure time
– considering educational oportunities for their children
– considering support for a valuable community-based organization
– looking for experts to provide information about animals, the environment and the conservation surrounding it
– putting value to living and working in Nashville and surrounding areas
– looking for a great place to work and invest in a career
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
I used to physically work very long days setting up and managing events, fundraisers, etc. My body can’t do that anymore and that’s hard to face. The Zoo still needs people like this but, fortunately, we have more staff able to step-up and help.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Sure. It would be dishonest to say that 26 years in one job has been nothing but clouded leopard cubs and rainbows. I won’t go into specifics but I will say that those times always involved the people and not the job.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What important truth do very few people agree with you on?
The other guy might be right.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
Ten years left to live? I’d stop living by a clock and a calendar as much as possible.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Any individual names would be in the file name. Otherwise, “Courtesy Nashville Zoo” is fine.
