Community Catalysts - Matt Lehrman

"When Incivility Wins” with Former Mayor Ginny Dickey of Fountain Hills, Arizona Feb 18, 2025

“Their goal isn’t to govern better—it’s to blow things up.” Former Mayor Ginny Dickey of Fountain Hills, Arizona, shares an unflinching account of how local politics took a dark turn. Having lost her 2024 reelection bid, the Mayor reflects on the rise of vicious attacks designed to fuel anger and spread division—and how conventional campaigning proved no match for these tactics.

Her experience is a wake-up call for leaders everywhere. Listen for her hard-earned insights on how to stay alert and ready to respond.

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"Decency, Fortitude, Community" with Mayor Brian Vincent of Farmville, Virginia Feb 11, 2025

Mayor Brian Vincent of Farmville, Virginia, shares how his leadership philosophy—rooted in decency, fortitude, and community—guides him through the challenges of public service. Drawing from personal resilience and the principles of Stoicism, he reflects on balancing history with progress, fostering meaningful civic dialogue, and navigating political division with unwavering integrity. Inspired by the legacy of his father, a fallen U.S. Army officer, the Mayor’s approach to leadership is a testament to the power of quiet strength, service, and purpose-driven action.

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"Bring the Compassion" with Vivienne Leyva, Public Information Officer for Riley County, Kansas Feb 04, 2025

Vivian Leyva, Public Information Officer for Riley County, Kansas, reflects on the pros and cons of social media and how it reaffirms the critical importance of human connection in local government leadership and communication. Drawing on her experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic and other crises, she highlights why empathy and clear messaging are essential for building trust, strengthening relationships, and guiding communities through challenging times. Her candid insights provide thoughtful and practical guidance for leaders striving to foster authenticity and compassion.

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"Collaboration, Vision, and Leadership" with Mary Hynes and Jay Fisette of Northern Virginia’s Regional Elected Leaders Initiative Jan 28, 2025

What does it take to foster meaningful collaboration in Northern Virginia’s diverse, fast-changing communities? Mary Hynes and Jay Fisette, co-directors of the Regional Elected Leaders Initiative (RELI) at George Mason University, draw on their decades of leadership experience to share powerful insights on breaking barriers and building trust. From visionary transit-oriented development to tackling climate challenges, Mary and Jay reflect together on the practical steps needed to turn shared challenges into collaborative opportunities.

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“Mission, People, and Process” with Derek Ferland, County Manager, Sullivan County, New Hampshire Jan 21, 2025

Derek Ferland, County Manager of Sullivan County, New Hampshire, reflects on his leadership journey, sharing insights shaped by his military career and deep community roots. Guided by his father's advice, "If you want to be different, you've got to do something different," Derek emphasizes caring for people and building trust in complex environments. Through lessons on mission, people, and process, his story highlights how thoughtful leadership fosters trust and collaboration in challenging settings.

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“Keep Your Promises” with Cheryl Mayes, School Board Member, Metro Nashville Public Schools Jan 14, 2025

Cheryl Mayes, a two-term school board member for Metro Nashville Public Schools, shares her experiences serving one of the city’s most diverse districts. She reflects on the challenges and rewards of public service, the importance of listening to community needs, and staying grounded in integrity and outcomes. Cheryl offers a thoughtful perspective on how leaders can serve with empathy, build trust, and make a lasting impact in their communities.

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"Responsive at Every Level” with Matt Letourneau, Loudoun County Board of Supervisors Dec 10, 2024

Supervisor Matt Letourneau offers insights from over a decade of public service as the Dulles District representative on the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors. He discusses navigating rapid growth in one of the nation’s fastest-developing counties, addressing fiscal challenges in regional transit, and fostering connection and responsiveness—whether meeting constituent needs or solving broader community challenges. Letourneau also reflects on balancing the demands of leadership with family life as a husband and father of four. Sponsored by RELI, the Regional Elected Leaders Initiative of the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University.

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"The Weight of Doing Right" with Council Member Jim Torgeson, Town of Gilbert AZ Dec 03, 2024

First, we briefly reconnect with Dr. Apryl Steele, president and CEO of the Dumb Friends League, for an update on her organization’s groundbreaking ballot initiative to address Colorado’s veterinary care shortage, following our September 3rd interview.

Next, Council Member Jim Torgeson of Gilbert, Arizona, a dyed-in-the-wool conservative, reflects on his agonizing decision to support a local tax increase—a choice that challenged his deeply held principles. Torgeson shares his internal struggle to balance the expectations of his constituents, the community’s long-term needs, and his own values, offering a candid and thought-provoking perspective on the complexities of ethical leadership.

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"Transforming Lives Through Community Partnership" Otis White's Interview with Kathy Swahn Nov 26, 2024

This episode is a republication of Otis White's Civic Strategies podcast interview with Kathy Swahn, Executive Director of The Drake House in Roswell, Georgia. Kathy shares the inspiring story of how a Leadership North Fulton class project grew into a lifeline for homeless mothers and their children. Discover how The Drake House provides critical services to families in crisis, the power of partnerships between civic, corporate, and faith communities, and the innovative fundraising efforts that sustain their mission. Kathy's insights highlight the profound impact of local leadership and collaboration in addressing urgent community needs.

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Otis White’s Civic Strategies website: http://www.civic-strategies.com/

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“From Expertise to Engagement” with Mayor Lisa Craig, Lodi, CA Nov 19, 2024

Mayor Lisa Craig of Lodi, California, shares her journey from historic preservation expert to elected leader, offering a unique perspective on the distinction between serving as professional staff and engaging a community to build consensus. With a background in revitalizing historic neighborhoods and cities, she now applies that expertise to Lodi’s growth, downtown revitalization, and clean energy initiatives. In this conversation, Mayor Craig discusses how her work in preservation shaped her approach to governance, emphasizing the importance of wisdom, collaboration, and community-driven leadership.

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“Standing Tall” with Mayor Catherine S. Read, Fairfax City, VA Nov 12, 2024

She describes herself as small in stature, but Mayor Catherine Read’s vision for Fairfax City is anything but. In this episode, she shares her unexpected last-minute journey to the mayor’s office and how her perspective and presence shape her leadership. From preserving community spirit to fostering growth and inclusivity, Mayor Read discusses the values driving transformation in Fairfax and the importance of regional collaboration. Tune in to hear how she balances big-picture goals with the daily realities of local governance.

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Letters from an American: https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/

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“Empowering Economic Justice” with Kimber Lanning, CEO, Local First Arizona Nov 05, 2024

From tackling financial inequities and food security to pioneering adaptive reuse in local development, Kimber Lanning reveals how Local First Arizona drives economic justice across Arizona’s urban, rural, and tribal communities. Hear how investing in local businesses, fostering sustainability, and promoting local control transform Arizona’s economy and create opportunity-rich communities statewide.

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Local First Arizona: https://localfirstaz.com/

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“Urban Optimism” with Otis White Oct 29, 2024

Otis White, the now-retired founder of Civic Strategies, shares his belief in the inherent optimism of cities and the power of community involvement in shaping their future. In the first part, we conclude a 7-part discussion in which Otis reflects on how cities thrive when residents feel connected, respected, and heard. Then, we revisit his Civic Strategies interview with Commissioner Kathy Gannon, where they discuss the transformation of a complex intersection in DeKalb County, Georgia, into a functional traffic circle, showcasing the power of collaboration between government, businesses, and the community.

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Otis White’s Civic Strategies website: http://www.civic-strategies.com/

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"Engineering a Stronger Community" with Mayor Joe LaRussa, Farmington, Michigan Oct 22, 2024

“Engineering a Stronger Community” - Mayor Joe LaRussa of Farmington, Michigan, brings an engineering mindset to solving local issues and driving community improvements. From organizing neighbors to transform a neglected park to championing sustainable growth and infrastructure, he shares how his problem-solving approach and “tough but fair” leadership style have reshaped the city. LaRussa emphasizes the importance of community engagement, creative thinking, and persistence—values he believes are just as relevant in nurturing a family as they are in guiding a community.

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“The Emotional Weight Of Leadership” with Nichole Weiler, LCSW Oct 15, 2024

“The Emotional Weight of Leadership” – Nichole Weiler, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker from Norfolk, Virginia, with extensive experience supporting military personnel and first responders. Her expertise in managing high-pressure situations offers valuable insights and practical strategies for municipal officials facing the stress and demands of public service. This conversation was recorded just days before Nichole takes part in the Virginia Municipal League’s Mayors Institute, where she will support a courageous conversation on the emotional toll of leadership. In this episode, she shares mindfulness practices designed to help leaders stay grounded, focused, and resilient in even the most intense situations.

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“Integrity Over Popularity” with Meagan Alderton, Board Member for Alexandria City Public Schools, Former Chair Oct 08, 2024

“Integrity over Popularity” - Meagan Alderton, board member and past chair of Alexandria City Public Schools, shares her leadership journey, navigating the challenges of education during the pandemic and addressing identity politics in a diverse community. She reflects on the importance of staying calm in crisis and leading with integrity, offering insights and advice for leaders striving to create meaningful change in their communities.

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“Ports, Progress, and Purpose” with Mayor Thurman Bartie, Port Arthur, TX Oct 01, 2024

“Ports, Progress, and Purpose” - Mayor Thurman Bartie of Port Arthur, Texas, discusses the challenges of leading a city through industrial transformation. With North America's largest petrochemical facility and a growing LNG export industry, Port Arthur is on the rise. Mayor Bartie shares his vision for downtown revitalization, workforce housing, and sustainable growth while emphasizing the need for compromise and collaboration to navigate political and community dynamics.

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“Balancing Tradition” with Otis White (Civic Strategies Part 6) Sep 24, 2024

“Balancing Tradition” - In our monthly conversation with Otis White, founder of Civic Strategies, we explore the art of balancing tradition and innovation in community leadership. Then, Otis shares his thought-provoking interview with Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International. Together, they delve into the power of volunteerism, community connection, and how thoughtful leadership can preserve core values while championing change.

LINKS

Civic Strategies: http://www.civic-strategies.com/

Habitat for Humanity: https://www.habitat.org/

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“The Positive Politics of Preparedness” with Mayor Gary Petersen, Nevada City, CA Sep 17, 2024

Mayor Gary Petersen of Nevada City, California, shares how his community is preparing for wildfire threats while cultivating a vibrant, arts-centered economy. Mayor Petersen dives into the challenges of leading a historic town with modern-day risks and how Nevada City's commitment to resilience and preparedness is not just about survival but about thriving. With deep roots in Western traditions of community service, Mayor Petersen offers insights into how local leadership, trust, and collaboration can strengthen a town’s social fabric in the face of natural disasters. Discover how preparedness is more than a plan—it's a philosophy for building stronger communities.

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“Building the Future” with Katie Cristol, Tysons Community Alliance Sep 10, 2024

"Building the Future" - Katie Cristol, CEO of the Tysons Community Alliance, leads efforts to foster human connection in one of Northern Virginia's fastest-growing regions. Under her leadership, Tysons is evolving from a suburban office hub into a vibrant urban community where people can live, work, and connect. In this episode, Katie shares how the Alliance creates spaces for meaningful interactions, making Tysons a model of sustainable, inclusive urbanism. Her insights offer valuable lessons on building community amidst rapid growth. This episode is sponsored by RELI, the Regional Elected Leaders Initiative of George Mason University's Schar School of Policy and Government.

LINKS

Tysons Community Alliance: https://tysonsva.org/

Regional Elected Leaders Initiative: https://schar.gmu.edu/faculty-research/research-centers-institutes-and-initiatives/regional-elected-leaders-initiative

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“Pets on the Ballot” with Dr. Apryl Steele, President & CEO, Dumb Friends League Sep 03, 2024

"Pets on the Ballot" - Colorado's animal welfare community is addressing the national veterinary care crisis with a first-in-the-nation ballot measure this November to create a new Veterinary PA role that aims to expand access to care and transform the future of pet care. Dr. Apryl Steele, President and CEO of the Dumb Friends League, offers insights into the challenges, opportunities, and potential impact of this groundbreaking effort.

LINKS

Veterinary PA Initiative: https://allpetsdeservevetcare.com/

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“Visionary Leadership” with Otis White (Civic Strategies Part 5) Aug 27, 2024

“Visionary Leadership” - We continue our monthly check-in with Otis White, formerly the President of Civic Strategies in Atlanta, who shares insights from his podcast series with the Georgia Municipal Association. Discover the transformative story of the Atlanta Beltline, as Otis interviews Kathy Woolard, the political godmother behind the project. Learn how visionary leadership, strategic planning, and community engagement turned an old railroad corridor into a thriving urban space, showcasing the power of collaboration and innovative thinking in urban development.

LINKS

Civic Strategies: http://www.civic-strategies.com/

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“Rooted in Leadership” with Mayor Jonas Anderson, Cave City, AR Aug 20, 2024

“Rooted in Leadership” - Mayor Jonas Anderson of Cave City, Arkansas, reflects on the sense of history and responsibility that’s at the core of his leadership. He says, “Focusing on the really important things that matter most to people every single day, their everyday lives, that's what we need to be about, not all the other stuff that gets in the way.”

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“Inner Confidence, Outer Leadership” with Camisha Brown, Municipal Clerk, Dinwiddie, VA Aug 13, 2024

“Inner Confidence, Outer Leadership” — It takes a special kind of leader to connect the substance and emotion of civic engagement. Discover Camisha Brown's inspiring journey to becoming a municipal clerk and learn why inspiring confidence and fostering community engagement begins with overcoming self-doubt.

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“The Architecture of Democracy” with Stuart Graff, CEO, Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation Aug 06, 2024

“The Architecture of Democracy” — What does a nonprofit foundation charged with preserving two historic properties have to say about housing, education, climate change, and the nature of community in America? The answer, says CEO Stuart Graff, is that Frank Lloyd Wright’s legacy has always been about reshaping the future.

LINKS

Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation: https://franklloydwright.org/

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“After the Oath” with Otis White (Civic Strategies Part 4) Jul 30, 2024

“After the Oath” — In my monthly check-in with Otis White, formerly the President of Civic Strategies in Atlanta, he sizes up the learning curve for new Mayors and Council Members and how they should prioritize their time immediately after taking office. From the “Civic Strategies” podcast archive, we listen to Otis’ conversation with Denise Brinson about Suwanee, Georgia, and its 2002 decision to build an entire new downtown.

LINKS

Civic Strategies: http://www.civic-strategies.com/

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“Steps to Leadership" with Pastor John London, City Council Member, Irondale, AL (Part 2 of 2) Jul 23, 2024

“Steps to Leadership” (Part 2 of 2) — As my conversation continues with John W. London, the Alabama pastor, basketball coach and City Council Member talks about the importance of teamwork in all three endeavors.

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“Steps to Leadership" with Pastor John London, City Council Member, Irondale, AL (Part 1 of 2) Jul 16, 2024

“Steps to Leadership” (Part 1 of 2) — As a pastor, high school basketball coach and City Council Member in Irondale, Alabama, John W. London says he puts his relationship with God first in all endeavors. But he also says he was led both to the pulpit and into politics by earthly mentors, underlining the importance of lineage in both religious and secular callings.

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“Crisis Response” with Mayor Greg Hines, Rogers, AR Jul 09, 2024

“Crisis Response” — First elected Mayor in 2010, Greg Hines faced the greatest crisis of his public-service career just a month ago, when one of the largest tornadoes in Arkansas history struck the city of Rogers. What better time to talk about resilience and applying a lifetime of leadership lessons?

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“Civility Matters” with Linda Olsen, Former Director, University of Denver Leadership Studies Department Jul 02, 2024

“Civility Matters” — After researching civility initiatives around the country, retired professor Linda Olson reflects on the persistent challenges local governments face in promoting dignity and respect.

LINKS

Civility Starts Here: https://www.cml.org/home/topics-key-issues/civility-starts-here

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“Partners in Community Development” with Otis White (Civic Strategies Part 3) Jun 25, 2024

“Partners in Community Development” - Otis White, the retired President of Civic Strategies is one of America’s foremost analysts and thought leaders on community decision-making and civic leadership. Today we listen to his interview with Frank Turner, former City Manager and Foundation trustee in Covington, Georgia on how local foundations can be successful partners in community development.

Civic Strategies: http://www.civic-strategies.com/

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“Speaking up” with Alisa Benson, Council Member, Orono, MN Jun 18, 2024

“Speaking Up” — Alisa Benson, a first-term Orno, Minnesota council member, shares what inspired her to step into politics and the valuable lessons she’s learned navigating a governance landscape marked by community challenges and divisions.

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“It's All About Audience” with Doug McLennan, Founder and Editor, ArtsJournal (Part 2) Jun 11, 2024

“It’s All About Audience” — Doug McLennan, the founder and editor of ArtsJournal, shares perspectives from 25 years at the confluence of journalism, arts and digital technology. As our conversation turns toward the future, Doug explores the exponential growth of AI and its far-reaching implications for society.

LINKS

ArtsJournal: www.artsjournal.com/

Doug McLennan’s blog: www.artsjournal.com/diacritical/

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“It´s All About Audience” with Doug McLennan, Founder and Editor, ArtsJournal (Part 1) Jun 04, 2024

“It’s All About Audience” — Doug McLennan, the founder and editor of ArtsJournal, shares perspectives from 25 years at the confluence of journalism, arts and digital technology. “To say that audiences for the arts are declining,” he says, “completely misses the idea. There’s more creativity, more ability to produce creative things. Arts education is flourishing in a way it never has before.”

LINKS

ArtsJournal: www.artsjournal.com/

Doug McLennan’s blog: www.artsjournal.com/diacritical/

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“Cities, Businesses, and Inclusive Civic Strategies” with Otis White (Civic Strategies Part 2) May 28, 2024

“CITIES, BUSINESSES, AND INCLUSIVE CIVIC STRATEGIES”: Otis White, an influential thought leader in community-based strategic planning, returns to the podcast to discuss the virtues as well as the costs of inclusivity. From the “Civic Strategies” podcast archive, Scott Tigchelaar, former president of Raleigh Studios Atlanta, talks with Otis about how cities and businesses can work together successfully.

LINKS

Civic Strategies: http://www.civic-strategies.com/

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“Road to Progress” with Mayor Craig McFarland, Casa Grande, AZ May 21, 2024

“ROAD TO PROGRESS” - Mayor Craig McFarland of Casa Grande, Arizona, reflects on his two terms in office, highlighting a recent Federal freeway investment that marks a milestone in regional connectivity. This achievement underscores the collaborative efforts of local, regional, tribal, state, and federal entities.

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“Advocates Dilemma” with Signe Friedrichs, Former Council Member, Herndon, VA May 14, 2024

“ADVOCATE’S DILEMMA” - Signe Friedrichs, former Herndon (Virginia) Town Council Member, reflects on her 2022 re-election loss and balancing the passion to drive change with the weight of responsible governance for an entire community.

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“Future in Focus” with Patrick Banger, Town Manager, Gilbert, AZ May 07, 2024

"Future in Focus" - Patrick Banger, City Manager of Gilbert, Arizona, guides a forward-focused team endeavor to pursue the town's strategic vision of becoming the "City of the Future."

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"Revisiting Civic Strategies" with Otis White, Civic Strategies (Part 1) Apr 30, 2024

"Civic Strategies (Part 1)" - Otis White, the former President of Civic Strategies (now retired), is one of America’s foremost analysts and thought leaders on community decision-making and civic leadership. Starting today, we feature his interviews conducted from 2011 to 2015, in collaboration with the Georgia Municipal Association, for the Civic Strategies podcast.

LINKS

Civic Strategies: http://www.civic-strategies.com/

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“Building Communities with Authenticity” with Mayor Victoria Woodards, Tacoma, WA Apr 23, 2024

"Building Community with Authenticity" - Victoria Woodards, Mayor of Tacoma, Washington, and Immediate Past President of the National League of Cities, links the essence of authentic leadership to the art of cultivating community collaboration.

LINKS

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“Entrepreneurial Citizenship” with Eugene Carr, Founder, Berkshire Busk! Apr 16, 2024

"Entrepreneurial Citizenship" - Eugene Carr, founder of the Berkshire Busk! festival in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, talks about how local government can nurture private initiatives.

LINKS

Berkshire Busk! https://www.berkshirebusk.com/

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“Political Mindfield” with Mayor Elaine McLain, Birmingham, MI Apr 09, 2024

"Political Mindfield" - Mayor Elaine McLain of Birmingham, Michigan, draws on her psychiatric RN background to navigate tough decisions in local governance, addressing what's necessary, unpopular, and expensive.

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Ask a Question or Leave a Comment: 602-688-2724

Send us a Note: ComCats@SocialProsperity.us

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Follow Matt Lehrman on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedInProduced by Social Prosperity Partners

“Alaina´s Voice” with Arik Housley, Alaina’s Voice Foundation Apr 02, 2024

"Alaina's Voice" - Arik Housely’s call to community leadership begins with unimaginable loss and follows a heartbreaking path of grief that has emerged into an initiative for making positive change in the world.

LINKS

Alaina’s Voice Foundation: https://alainasvoice.org/

Ask a Question or Leave a Comment: 602-688-2724

Send us a Note: ComCats@SocialProsperity.us

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Follow Matt Lehrman on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedInProduced by Social Prosperity Partners

“Law & Order and Social Media” with Martin Podsiad, Detective, New Haven Police Mar 26, 2024

"Law & Order and Social Media" - Martin Podsiad, a New Haven police detective, took over the department’s social media and discovered that his interview and interrogation skills seamlessly translate into captivating social media engagement, offering a fresh perspective on audience connection.

LINKS

Ask a Question or Leave a Comment: 602-688-2724

Send us a Note: Podcast@SocialProsperity.us

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Follow Matt Lehrman on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedInProduced by Social Prosperity Partners

“Strategic Outcomes” with Matthew Pepper, CEO, Michigan Humane Mar 19, 2024

"Strategic Outcomes" - Matthew Pepper, President & CEO of Michigan Humane, transformed how this 147-year-old nonprofit approaches strategic planning, replacing the conventional chase of statistics with a focus on the impactful outcomes of "healthy communities, safe neighborhoods, and a thriving workforce & economy.”

LINKS

Ask a Question or Leave a Comment: 602-688-2724

Send us a Note: Podcast@SocialProsperity.us

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Follow Matt Lehrman on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedInProduced by Social Prosperity Partners

"Back in Black" with Mayor Annette Blackwell, Maple Heights, OH Mar 12, 2024

"Back in Black" - As both the first woman and African American mayor in Maple Heights, Ohio, Annette Blackwell faced a racist and sexist backlash while putting the Cleveland suburb’s finances back on track. But her biggest challenge wasn’t winning over white voters, but other Black politicians.

LINKS

Ask a Question or Leave a Comment: 602-688-2724

Send us a Note: Podcast@SocialProsperity.us

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Follow Matt Lehrman on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedInProduced by Social Prosperity Partners

"The Wellness Police" with Police Chief Rudy Mendoza, Tolleson, AZ Mar 05, 2024

"The Wellness Police" - As part of his wellness agenda in Tolleson, Arizona, Police Chief Rudy Mendoza wanted to make therapy mandatory. But cultural change doesn’t always follow a chain of command.

LINKS

Ask a Question or Leave a Comment: 602-688-2724

Send us a Note: Podcast@SocialProsperity.us

Apply to Be a Podcast Guest: Click Here

Follow Matt Lehrman on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedInProduced by Social Prosperity Partners

“Church and State” with Rev. Audrey Hartness Reese, Councilwoman, Westminster, SC Feb 27, 2024

“Church & State” - In the inaugural episode of “Community Catalysts,” host Matt Lehrman talks with the Reverend Audrey Hartness Reese about balancing her dual callings as a church pastor and City Councilwoman in Westminster, South Carolina.

LINKS

Ask a Question or Leave a Comment: 602-688-2724

Send us a Note: Podcast@SocialProsperity.us

Apply to Be a Podcast Guest: Click Here

Follow Matt Lehrman on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn

Produced by Social Prosperity Partners

Community Catalysts: Preview Feb 20, 2024

Join host Matt Lehrman for a weekly podcast from Social Prosperity Partners that examines the qualities of community leadership and the many paths and forms it can take. Our goal is to offer inspiration and practical guidance for those striving to make a difference in their own communities.

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