Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to CJ Greco. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
CJ, so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.
I think a lot of my confidence has truly come from being able to live as my true self. For the past 6 years, I have been out as a trans person, and I’ve only grown happier and more confident every day since. I remember a time when even doing the bare minimum felt terrifying and exhausting; but ever since being able to express myself in a way that feels euphoric, my self-esteem has never been higher. Sometimes it can be terrifying to simply exist as a trans person in today’s world. Every year it becomes more and more unsafe for genderqueer people to thrive. I hold a lot of my self-esteem and confidence in being someone that other people can look to for guidance and support.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I value encouraging people to explore the natural world in everything I do. From my work as an educator at a zoo, volunteering in queer activism spaces, and being on the leadership team for a community-based affinity group called Out In Nature, where we create safe and accessible spaces for queer people in the outdoors. I also host a podcast called the Birdy Bunch Podcast, where I talk with guests about everything conservation, education, and fascination. So much of my brand and identity is centered around bringing people together and exploring nature in a way that is accessible and entry-level.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
The three things that stand out to me right away are: -Being kind to everyone I meet
Remember people’s names and hobbies/interests. Forming connections with people is so incredibly valuable. Not only for the stereotypical like networking reasons but just to establish yourself as someone who is kind and trustworthy. I find a lot of self-worth in knowing that I am a go-to person to speak to when they are feeling heavy. I love supporting people because sometimes I need support too!
-Trying everything
I have encountered so many unique situations to gain experience I never thought t I would need or enjoy. I’ve worked as a teacher in a high school, as a camp counselor, and I even worked in a pizza shop, all of these experiences gave me something, even a minor note on how to improve a skill.
-Being flexible
Flexibility as a tool is beyond helpful, but as someone who needs a structured plan, this can be incredibly tough sometimes. Being adaptable is a skill that has been my most impactful skill, adjusting to situations that require different types of support.
I suppose a summary of this would be the improv “Yes, and…”, taking what people are looking to you for and building upon it and growing with it as opposed to despite it.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
The most helpful thing that has helped me overcome challenges and build new skills has been having community. Community, in whatever form that takes, is so unbelievably important. We need to act intersectionally across our interests and identities to continually develop and improve our skills for success. I have my family, my friends, my co-workers, my fellow volunteers, and my colleagues across the field of conservation. So many people with whom I share a deep connection, who I trust to support me as I have supported them.
Contact Info:
- Website: thebirdybunchpodcast.com
- Instagram: @cj.greco| https://www.instagram.com/cj.greco/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cj-greco/
- Other: www.TheBirdyBunchPodcast.com
