Ground Floor Government

Latest Episodes:

Unlocking Local Government Careers (with Monique Carter) | Ep. 132 Oct 21, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this episode, Monique Carter shares her journey in local government, highlighting the importance of finding the right position and contributing to the community. She discusses her role in marketing and economic development, the challenges of navigating unexpected situations, and the creative strategies employed to engage citizens. Monique emphasizes the value of communication skills, the balance between creativity and compliance, and the opportunities available within local government careers.

Ready to explore your own local government career options? Download this free guide on how to transition into a successful career in local government: https://icma.org/documents/breaking-local-government-guidebook-career-transitions

Takeaways

You can find yourself in local government.
Monique's journey began at Enterprise Rent A Car.
Her role is to be the resident explainer.
Local government work involves both proactive and reactive tasks.
Engaging citizens is crucial for effective communication.
Success stories in business development are collaborative efforts.
Creativity can thrive even within budget constraints.
AI is being explored for effective communication.
Communication skills are essential for navigating complex conversations.
Local government offers diverse career opportunities.

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Crisis Communications and Public Relations (with Hope Boyd) | Ep. 131 Oct 19, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert speaks with Hope Boyd, Chief Communications and Marketing Officer in Cleburne, Texas. They discuss Hope's journey from news to local government, the challenges and rewards of crisis communications, and the importance of clear messaging in public relations. Hope shares insights on balancing budget constraints with creative communication strategies, the various roles within city operations, and the significance of marketing city services to the community. They also compare the benefits of working in local government versus news, and encourage listeners to consider careers in public service.

Takeaways

Hope Boyd transitioned from news to local government communications.
Every job prepares you for the next opportunity.
Crisis communications are essential in public relations.
Public interest can vary greatly from city to city.
Budget constraints challenge creative communication efforts.
Clear communication helps mitigate rumors and misinformation.
Cities offer diverse career paths and opportunities for growth.
Local government jobs provide stability and benefits like pensions.
Marketing city services is crucial for community engagement.
Internships and shadowing can provide valuable exposure to local government.

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From Ceramics to Communications (with Jake Zeigler) | Ep. 130 Oct 16, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this conversation, Jake Zeigler, Communication Manager for Effingham County, Georgia, shares his journey from the private sector to local government. He discusses the unique challenges and responsibilities of communication in government, the importance of community engagement, and the need for effective communication strategies. Jake emphasizes the significance of understanding public interest and adapting communication methods to meet the needs of citizens. He also provides valuable advice for those considering a career in local government, highlighting the diverse opportunities available and the importance of reaching out to local agencies.

Takeaways

Finding the right job in local government can lead to long-term career growth.
Transitioning from the private sector to public service can be fulfilling.
Building a communications department requires understanding community needs.
Effective communication in government is crucial for public trust.
Engaging the community can be challenging but is essential for local government.
Budget constraints impact communication strategies in local government.
Understanding the audience is key to effective communication.
ADA compliance is important in government communications.
Local government offers diverse career opportunities across various fields.
Passion for helping others drives success in public service.

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From Farm to Government (with Terry Bell) | Ep. 129 Oct 14, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this engaging podcast episode, Terry Bell, the County Executive of Warren County, Tennessee, shares his journey from farming to local government. He discusses innovative solutions he implemented to improve community services without raising taxes, the importance of effective communication and conflict resolution in governance, and offers valuable advice for those considering a career in local government. The conversation highlights the challenges and rewards of public service, emphasizing the need for creativity and collaboration in addressing community needs.

Takeaways

Terry Bell transitioned from farming to local government.
He emphasizes the importance of community representation.
Innovative budgeting allowed for teacher pay raises without tax increases.
Effective communication is crucial in navigating government challenges.
Public education about government roles is often necessary.
Terry's county bought a mall to house a new health department.
He values employee welfare and offers free health clinics.
Conflict resolution skills are essential for a county executive.
Local government can be a rewarding career path.
New employees should learn from experienced colleagues.

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Unlocking Opportunities in Local Government (with Desiree Myers) | Ep. 128 Oct 12, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this episode of Ground Floor Government, Desiree Myers, Chief Clerk and COO of Clinton County, Pennsylvania, shares her journey in local government, discussing the unexpected opportunities and challenges she faced. She highlights the importance of communication skills, navigating budget constraints, and working with state and federal mandates. Desiree emphasizes her passion for community service and the significance of career growth within local government, offering valuable advice for those considering a career in this field.

Takeaways

Desiree transitioned from HR in education to local government.
She oversees various departments, including the county prison.
The Bald Eagle Valley Trail project aims to boost local tourism.
Budget management requires creativity and public communication.
Building relationships with emergency responders is crucial.
Navigating state and federal mandates can be challenging.
Desiree's passion for her community drives her work.
Local government offers unique benefits like pension plans.
Career growth opportunities exist, even in challenging roles.
Staying true to personal values is essential in public service.

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Empowering Communities Through Local Government (with Dionne Stroter) | Ep. 127 Oct 09, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this conversation, Hugh Plappert interviews Dionne Stroter, the County Manager of Adams County, Colorado, who shares her inspiring journey from starting in the mailroom of the Colorado Department of Revenue to becoming a leader in local government. Dionne discusses the importance of mentorship, education, and community service, highlighting her experiences in various roles within local government. She reflects on the challenges faced in youth violence prevention and the successful implementation of a program providing free public transportation for youth. Dionne emphasizes her passion for making government accessible and ensuring that all community members are served effectively.

Takeaways

The opportunities in local government are significant.
Starting from the bottom can lead to great success.
Mentorship played a crucial role in my career.
An MPA can open doors in public administration.
Understanding local government is essential for effective service.
Community engagement is vital in local government.
Youth violence prevention requires innovative solutions.
Public transportation access is crucial for youth.
Government should be accessible to all community members.
Stability in local government jobs can support families.

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From Pizza Delivery to Public Administration (with Tim Hemstreet) | Ep. 126 Oct 07, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this conversation, the speaker shares their unique journey into public administration, highlighting the unexpected opportunities that shaped their career. They discuss the challenges faced during their tenure, including navigating a significant budget deficit and adapting to the COVID-19 pandemic. The speaker emphasizes the importance of communication, analytical skills, and community engagement in local government. They also reflect on major accomplishments, such as the completion of the MetroRail project, and the diverse career opportunities available within local government.

Takeaways

You never know what random encounter will change your life.
Economic recovery often lags behind national trends.
Adapting to challenges is crucial for local government.
Major projects require careful planning and discipline.
Communication skills are essential for effective leadership.
Listening to community needs is vital for decision-making.
Government decision-making processes are intentionally slow for inclusivity.
Serving the community is a rewarding aspect of local government.
Local government offers diverse career opportunities.
Accessibility to local government officials is important for constituents.

Sponsored by Switchboard.Live

The Hidden Career Paths in Local Government (with Brigette Garay) | Ep. 125 Oct 05, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert interviews Brigette Garay, a Public Information Officer from Webb County, Texas. Brigette shares her journey in local government, discussing her various roles and the challenges she has faced. She highlights the importance of community impact through initiatives like scholarships and emphasizes the need for effective communication and resource management in her role. Bridget also touches on the significance of digital accessibility and offers advice for those looking to enter local government careers.

Takeaways

Local government offers diverse career opportunities.
Brigette started her career as a court clerk in 2008.
She advanced to a supervisor role in the public records section.
Brigette designed a flow plan for victim assistance coordination.
She manages press releases for ongoing trials.
The Webb County Better Community Foundation provides scholarships.
Bridget operates on a limited budget for promotional items.
Clear communication and active listening are essential skills.
Victims appreciate the support provided during trials.
Teamwork and helping colleagues drive Brigette's passion.

Sponsored by Switchboard.Live

From Engineering to City Leadership (with LuAnn Holmes) | Ep. 124 Oct 02, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this episode, LuAnn Holmes, City Clerk of Las Vegas, shares her inspiring career journey from electrical engineering to public service, highlighting the importance of technology, communication, and adaptability in local government. Discover how her leadership navigates complex challenges and fosters transparency and trust in a dynamic city.

Takeaways

LuAnn Holmes' career pivot from electrical engineering to public service
The role of technology and digital transformation in city government
Managing complexity and maintaining public trust in Las Vegas
The importance of communication skills and neutrality in government
Digital ADA accessibility and inclusive government services
Cross-department collaboration and stakeholder management
Financial stewardship and cost-effective innovation in local government
Career pathways and entry points into local government
Leadership and team development in a high-pressure environment

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The Power of Local Government (with Bryan Hill) | Ep. 123 Sep 30, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this conversation, Bryan Hill discusses his journey from private industry to local government, emphasizing the importance of community engagement, financial management, and innovative public safety measures. He highlights the cultural changes within Fairfax County's fire and rescue department, the strategic planning initiatives to enhance interdepartmental collaboration, and the various opportunities available for youth in local government. Hill also underscores the significance of effective communication and the role of local government in serving the community.

Takeaways

Bryan Hill transitioned from private industry to local government.
He emphasizes the importance of community engagement in local government.
Fairfax County Fire and Rescue underwent significant cultural changes.
Financial management is crucial for reducing government costs.
Innovations like drones are enhancing public safety.
Effective communication is key to community engagement.
Strategic planning helps streamline interdepartmental collaboration.
There are numerous opportunities for youth in local government.
Fairfax County serves as an economic engine for the Commonwealth.
Local government plays a vital role in protecting and serving residents.

Sponsored by Switchboard.Live

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