Leading Thriving Cities

Today, we sit down with Jill Goldsmith, the Town Manager of Chatham, MA. Jill is happy to share her experiences and insights gained from over 14 years in her role. She emphasizes the importance of earning buy-in, fostering employee engagement, and learning patience and resilience. She also shares valuable heartfelt advice for her younger self about the importance of empathy and kindness — both for...

Today, we welcome David Morgan back for his second appearance on Leading Thriving Cities! Chad and David have an incredible discussion reflecting on David's decade-long experience as the city manager of Georgetown, TX. He shares the top four pieces of advice he would go back and give himself on day one. This conversation offers valuable insights not only to city managers but also to all leaders ac...

Today, we speak with Paul Grimes, the City Manager of McKinney, TX. Paul discusses his approach to bridging the gap between elected officials and the community, highlighting the essential role of city managers as navigators. He emphasizes the significance of strong people skills and the importance of fostering a creative environment. Join us for an engaging discussion on building relationships to...

  In this episode, we welcome Rachel Mendoza, the Assistant City Manager of Kaufman, TX. She shares her inspiring journey into city management and the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated field. Rachel discusses her experiences with imposter syndrome, the importance of setting healthy boundaries, and the value of humility. Tune in to connect with the passion that drives public serv...

Today, we have the wonderful Amanda Mack, the City Administrator of Harrisburg, South Dakota. Amanda shares her thoughts on the importance of authenticity in public service and on navigating negativity on social media. Plus, she has some fantastic advice for women in leadership! We love her take on the difference between being kind and being nice, and let’s not forget bringing back carrier pigeons...

In this episode of Leading Thriving Cities, we are joined by the incredibly awesome Aly Van Dyke, Director of Communications and Public Engagement for Georgetown, TX. Discover how storytelling and personal connections are enhancing city engagement, and learn why investing in community and public service is crucial for fostering a vibrant and informed city. Join us as Aly shares her insights on inv...

Today, Chief Allen Banks of the Round Rock Police Department joins us. We talk about how important it is for police officers to see their work as more than just a job. Chief Banks explains that it's essential for officers to build strong connections with the people they serve. He also emphasizes the need for self-care to maintain well-being, including taking regular breaks to rest and recharge. Th...

In this episode, we welcome Chris Whittaker, the City Manager of Magnolia, TX. Chris shares his unique journey from military service to city management, highlighting how his experiences have shaped his approach to leadership. Tune in for valuable insights and some entertaining stories, including a few about wrecking tanks and wild suits! Leading Thriving Cities is a Forward Partners Production des...

"People come first for a reason!" — Alan Guard Today we are joined by Alan Guard, Deputy City Manager of Brownsville, Texas. Alan shares his journey through city management, emphasizing the importance of showing people they matter, learning patience, and finding joy in the challenges of leadership. Tune in to discover valuable insights on investing in communities and the unique dynamics of city ma...

We are excited to welcome Austin Bleess, the City Manager of Jersey Village, TX. In this episode, Chad and Austin discuss their recent sabbaticals and how to prepare yourself and your team for success. They also explore the value of appreciating the small details in a city, the courage required to have the hard conversations, and, of course, Paw Patrol! Leading Thriving Cities is a Forward Partner...

Today's guest is Micah Grau, the City Manager of Buda, TX! He shares his love for Buda and thoughtful insights on how cities can grow intentionally. Micah emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships and avoiding silos. He discusses the need for stability and steadiness in his role, as well as the challenges that come with change. And, of course, there's some discussion about Taylor...

In today’s episode we sit down with Brent Parker, the city manager of Wylie, TX. He shares his personal journey navigating mental health within emergency services and public service. Brent discusses the power of recognizing that vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness. Join us for this great conversation that emphasizes the development of the whole person and the whole employee, because they t...

How can we be more intentional about building relationships across our organizations? Today we have a conversation with Becca Miears, the HR Director from New Braunfels, TX. Becca discusses the importance of caring for people and intentionally building healthy relationships. She shares her career journey, the challenges she faced in becoming a director, and the value of mentorship. Becca offers st...

Today, we’re excited to have Brad Stafford with us! Brad is the Director of Parks, Recreation, and Facilities for the city of Bryan, TX. He shares the heartfelt passion that drives public servants to make their communities better places to live. Brad was part of our Leading Thriving Cities Live! event, and today he opens up more about recognizing burnout, embracing vulnerability, and understanding...

Join us in this episode as Jack Thompson, City Manager of La Grange, TX, shares his fascinating journey from aspiring zoo keeper to public service. He shares the importance of intentional growth, the value of listening to the community, and how to embrace change while owning your leadership journey — complete with a hilarious dose of dad jokes and zoo analogies! Leading Thriving Cities is a Forwar...

In this episode, we speak with Phil Kiraly, Village Manager of the Village of Glencoe, IL, about his insights on why building trust and a positive culture is so important, both internally and with the public. Phil talks about the power of being vulnerable as a leader, how it's perfectly okay not to be the smartest person in the room, and the importance of asking the right questions to inspire posi...

Welcome to part two of our first Leading Thriving Cities Live! This episode continues after part one (Episode 40), which was also captured live at the 2025 TCMA Conference. Join us as we dive into various breaking points faced by City Managers. You’ll hear great insights from Jarrett Atkinson, Kevin Carruth, Brad Stafford, and Sara Costlow. Don’t miss their honest conversation, the fantastic...

We are thrilled to share the premiere of our very first Leading Thriving Cities Live! This live recording has been split into two episodes. This special episode was recorded in front of a live audience at the 2025 TCMA Conference. Join us as we dive into various breaking points faced by City Managers. You’ll hear great insights from Jarrett Atkinson, Kevin Carruth, Brad Stafford, and Sara Cos...

Can public service be fun? In today’s episode, we sit down for a wonderful discussion with Sara Costlow, Assistant City Manager of Deer Park, Texas. Sara shares her journey in city management, overcoming personal challenges, the fun that can be found in city management, and her passion for spreadsheets! Tune in to gain insights about leading as a woman in public service, and how we can all embrace...

We're thrilled to welcome back our first return guest, Emily Crawford, in this exciting episode of Leading Thriving Cities! Formerly the City Manager of Brownwood, Texas, Emily is now the City Manager in Abilene, Texas. Join us as we dive into her journey, exploring a decade of invaluable experiences, the lessons she's learned, and her reflections on what advice she'd share with her younger self o...

In this episode, we welcome Lindsey Wheeler, the City Administrator of La Vernia, TX. She shares valuable insights on the heart of city management in small towns. Lindsey discusses the joys of connecting with the community, growing up with parents in local government, and the creative ways small cities can thrive amidst growth and change. Tune in to learn how collaboration and mentorship can empow...

What is the legacy of a city manager? David Morgan is the city manager of Georgetown, Texas, ranked as the fastest growing city in America. He dives into the legacy a city staff can leave for the future. He has real insight into navigating city councils, how to establish great working relationships with them, and navigating the politics that come into play. Episode originally aired July 29, 2024 L...

How can we be open and engaging to create better trust throughout our communities? In today’s episode, we’re excited to have Michael Paulhus, the Town Manager of Plainville, CT, sharing his thoughts on building community trust through transparency and storytelling. He shares how local leaders can use social media to connect with people, tackle challenges, and spread positivity within their communi...

In this episode, we have an inspiring conversation with Gina Nash, the City Manager of Sachse, TX. She shares some wonderful insights on why vulnerability matters and the true benefit of tackling burnout. Gina encourages creating a supportive culture where it's okay to talk about grief and ask for help, which is essential for long-term success. Join us as we explore how investing in your team's we...

How do we deploy healthy vulnerability to lead the next generation in law enforcement? Today’s guest, Assistant Chief Willie Richards, from Round Rock Police Department, helps us understand the weight carried by every police officer and member of command staff. He dives into how he has navigated a long career sustainably, and why he is excited his sons have chosen to go into law enforcement as wel...