AuthentiCity FM | Real Stories. Bold Ideas. Better Communities.

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AuthentiCity FM, Episode 8: Rivalries, Resilience, and Real Leadership with Victor Cardenas Aug 28, 2025

Show notes

#Resilience #PublicSector #LocalGov #CityManagement #Leadership #Authenticity When Midwest leadership collides with sports rivalries, team transitions, and a touch of Detroit flair, you get an episode that’s anything but ordinary.

What happens when city management meets football fandom, career leaps, and a wardrobe bursting with Motor City spirit? This episode takes listeners inside the real-life journey from aspiring public servant to the "big chair" in city government, offering candid stories, lessons learned, and plenty of laughter along the way.

Discover how stepping up—whether to lead a team through change, adapt from medium-sized municipal life to small-town multitasking, or navigate the uncharted waters of crisis—builds authentic leadership and resilience. You’ll hear how trust is built in city hall and the local barber shop, why small towns run on relationships, and what it truly means to show up for a community in moments big and small.

Sports rivalries and fashion statements spark friendly debate, but the heart of this episode lies in its exploration of fiscal stewardship, infrastructure investment, international connections, and the creative ways local leaders keep teams united and communities thriving.

Above all, it’s a fast-paced, joy-filled look at the magic that happens when community spirit, organizational growth, and a healthy dose of humor come together in the heart of the Midwest—reminding us that the most meaningful leadership stories are often a blend of grit, grace, and a wardrobe change or two.

02:24 Victor Cardenas: Journey into Local Government

05:17 Transitioning from Assistant to City Manager

08:16 The Challenges of Small Town Management

11:27 Economic Development in Novi

19:37 Navigating Relationships as a City Manager

22:29 Pushing Boundaries in Leadership

28:00 Global Connections and Cultural Experiences

31:23 Navigating Board Service During COVID

35:20 Reflections on Service and Leadership

52:03 Cultural Connections and Community Involvement

56:50 The Importance of International Collaboration

58:10 Sports Rivalries and Community Spirit

AuthentiCity FM, Episode 7: Recruitment: What Works, What Doesn't, and Why it Matters Aug 21, 2025

Show notes

#Recruitment #PublicSector #LocalGov #CityManagement #Leadership #Authenticity #AuthentiCityFM #RealStories #BoldIdeas #BetterCommunities

City managers, directors, and department heads don’t just appear—they’re recruited, chosen, and tested under pressure. Recruiting these top leaders for local government has never been more complex—or more urgent. In this episode of Authenticity FM, we’re joined by Charlene Stevens, Vice President of Human Capital at MGT and a veteran executive recruiter who’s seen every angle of the hiring table. With communities facing waves of retirement, rising expectations, and candidate pools that look nothing like they did a decade ago, how do you actually find the right leader—and what really works in high-stakes recruitment?

Phil, Corri, and Mike dig into today’s realities with Charlene, exploring everything from the challenge of attracting great candidates and the influence of social media, to the tension between internal and national searches and the surprising ways mentorship shapes careers. Whether you’ve been through a city manager search or you’re thinking about your next step in public service, you’ll find unfiltered perspectives on what’s changing, what’s challenging, and the practical strategies that can set both organizations and candidates up for success.

00:00 The Importance of Executive Recruitment in Local Government

01:30 Charlene Stevens: A Journey Through Public Sector Recruitment

04:18 Current Trends in Executive Recruitment

06:28 Navigating Internal vs. External Candidates

11:44 Generational Shifts in Local Government Recruitment

15:29 Addressing Reputation Issues in Recruitment

18:58 Understanding Governing Body Dynamics

29:56 Negotiating Offers: The Role of the Recruiter

37:52 Navigating Candidate Communication

43:10 Common Interview Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

50:19 Mentorship and Talent Spotting

56:27 Networking and Building Professional Relationships

AuthentiCity FM, Episode 6: Moves, Mentors, and Members Matter Aug 18, 2025

Show notes

#Resilience #Vulnerability #LocalGov #CityManagement #Leadership #Authenticity #AuthentiCityFM #RealStories #BoldIdeas #BetterCommunities

What does it really take to keep showing up—at work, at home, and in the moments that test your limits? This episode is all heart, laughter, and honesty, as the team dives into moving families mid-pandemic, balancing burnout and big ambition, and the messy business of leading when nobody has all the answers. From boardroom debates and “easy tiger” pep talks to cutting grass at wild angles and learning reverse mentorship from kids, it’s a conversation that embraces imperfection and proves that vulnerability isn’t a weakness—it’s the secret sauce.

If you’ve ever been the “line leader,” felt the pressure to be everything to everyone, or just struggled to find your footing during a year that wouldn’t quit, you’ll find real talk and relatable energy here. Whether you’re chasing career milestones, cheering for your own growth, or just trying to keep your battery charged, this hour is a reminder: bring your whole self, laugh at your missteps, and never underestimate the power of a good team.

00:00 Introduction to Tanya and Her Journey

13:22 The Role of ICMA and Community Engagement

22:13 Leadership Challenges and Vulnerability

26:47 The Importance of Authenticity

34:46 Stewardship of Democracy in Leadership

38:51 The Need for Personal Breaks

53:07 Advice for Young Leaders

56:41 The Power of Open Disagreement

01:00:05 Leadership and Cultivating Others

01:04:58 Vulnerability as a Leadership Strength

01:12:19 Reverse Mentoring and Learning from the Next Generation

AuthentiCity FM, Episode 5: Civility, Safety, and Showing Up Aug 07, 2025

Show notes

#Civility #Safety #Resilience #LocalGovernment #CityManagement #Leadership #Authenticity #AuthenticityFM #RealStories #BoldIdeas #BetterCommunities

What happens when the boundaries of public debate break down and incivility becomes the norm? In this episode, the AuthentiCity FM team takes a candid look at the real-world impact of rising hostility, personal attacks, and threats faced by public servants—and explores how leaders can hold the line on civility, safety, and simply showing up in their communities.

Through honest stories and frank reflection, Corri, Mike, and Phil talk about what’s driving this new intensity, the toll it takes on local leaders at every level, and what it means for the future of local government. The conversation digs into why civility still matters, how to build real resilience on the front lines of public service, and how safety—both emotional and physical—has become a central concern for those who choose to serve.

Along the way, you’ll find moments of vulnerability, camaraderie, practical advice, and even a bit of nostalgia (yes, there’s a Gargamel glass cameo!)—reminding us that showing up authentically is as important as the work itself.

00:00 Introduction to Incivility in Local Government

02:58 The Impact of Threats and Harassment

06:37 Personal Experiences and Reflections

09:56 The Role of Social Media in Public Discourse

14:29 Learning to Disconnect from Negativity

20:01 The Crisis in Local Governance

25:12 Building Resilience in Public Service

30:09 The Importance of Community Support

34:00 Strategies for Civil Discourse

39:07 The Role of Storytelling in Governance

53:13 Finding Hope and Moving Forward

AuthentiCity FM, Episode 4: Talent, Timing, and Turning Points Jul 31, 2025

Show notes

#LocalGovernment #CityManagement #Leadership #Authenticity #AuthenticityFM #RealStories #BoldIdeas #BetterCommunities

Join hosts Phil, Corri, and Mike as they dig deep into the transformative power of mentorship—the core relationships that shape careers, communities, and confidence. In this episode, the team shares personal stories, explores the evolving definitions of mentorship across generations, and uncovers the small nudges and tough lessons that unlock hidden potential.

Discover why the best opportunities often come from someone else recognizing your talents before you do. Learn about the changing nature of mentorship: from traditional, top-down models to collaborative, boundaryless connections fueled by curiosity and technology. You’ll hear about reverse mentorship, generational shifts, and practical advice for finding and becoming great mentors in local government and beyond.

Whether you’re a seasoned leader, an emerging professional, or just seeking inspiration for your next chapter, this conversation will challenge how you think about guidance, purpose, and growth. Tune in for real talk, a few laughs, and powerful takeaways that might just change how you see the journey ahead.

Sound Bites

"Behind every success story, there's usually a mentor who made a difference."

"Mentorship is more than advice. It’s about recognizing talent and encouraging growth."

"Good mentors help us see potential we didn’t see in ourselves."

"Mentorship is not a one-way street. We derive as much as we give."

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Mentorship

06:03 Personal Stories of Mentorship

13:33 Generational Perspectives on Mentorship

20:54 Navigating Mentorship in Leadership Roles

26:42 Technology and Mentorship Across Generations

29:59 Generational Perspectives on Technology and Engagement

35:28 Purpose-Driven Work and Reverse Mentorship

38:44 Building Connections and Strategic Networking

45:06 Curiosity and the Role of AI in Mentorship

50:55 Nostalgia and Childhood Memories

58:46 The Importance of Mentorship and Support

AuthentiCity FM, Episode 3: Nostalgia, Networks, and New Narratives Jul 24, 2025

Show notes

#LocalGovernment #CityManagement #Leadership #Authenticity #AuthenticityFM #RealStories #BoldIdeas #BetterCommunities

In Episode 3 of AuthentiCity FM, join hosts Corri Spiegel, Phil Kiraly, and Mike Sable as they embark on an exciting exploration of disruption and the intriguing patterns of history. Discover how the age-old adage of "everything old becomes new again" rings true in today’s ever-changing landscape. This discussion highlights the power of launching initiatives even if they aren’t polished and the dynamic evolution of media’s role within local government.

But that’s not all! Tune in to hear about the upcoming ICMA conference, a fantastic opportunity for professional growth and vibrant community engagement. Don’t miss out on an episode brimming with insights into authenticity and the ways we can all contribute to a richer, more connected future.

Authenticity FM, Episode 2: Mother Nature, AI & More Jul 15, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Authenticity FM, hosts Phil Kiraly, Corri Spiegel, and Mike Sable discuss the launch of their podcast, the role of AI in their creative process, and the impact of recent natural disasters on communities. They reflect on personal experiences with crises, the importance of networking and support in public service, and the challenges of navigating social media. The conversation emphasizes resilience, collaboration, and the human connection in the face of adversity.

#LocalGovernment #CityManagement #Leadership #Authenticity #AuthenticityFM #RealStories #BoldIdeas #BetterCommunities

AuthentiCity FM, Episode 1: Everything Has a Beginning Jul 09, 2025

Show notes

Welcome to the inaugural episode of AuthentiCity FM, where we dive into the heart of local government with hosts Corri Spiegel, Mike Sable, and Phil Kiraly. Join us as we explore our unique journeys into city management, share personal stories, and discuss the challenges and triumphs of leading communities. Discover the passion and authenticity that drive us to make a difference, and learn why city management is more crucial than ever in today's complex world. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that blends humor, insight, and a shared commitment to public service.

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