Ground Floor Government

Latest Episodes:

The Unexpected Journey into Local Government (with Dalton Rice) | Ep. 122 Sep 28, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this episode, Hugh Plappert interviews Dalton Rice, the City Manager of Kerrville, Texas, discussing his unexpected journey into local government, the diverse career opportunities available, and the challenges faced in managing a city. Dalton shares insights on leadership, community impact projects, and the importance of collaboration across departments. He emphasizes the need for adaptability in navigating crises and the significance of effective communication in local government.

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

Dalton Rice's journey into local government was accidental but fulfilling.
Local government offers diverse career paths for individuals from various backgrounds.
City managers must be adaptable and ready to face unexpected challenges.
Community projects can have a significant positive impact on residents.
Effective leadership requires understanding different departmental needs and personalities.
Navigating budget constraints is a major challenge for city managers.
Unfunded mandates can complicate project planning and execution.
Collaboration among departments is essential for successful project outcomes.
Aspiring local government professionals should network and seek mentorship.
There are ample opportunities for career growth in local government.

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Building Community for Career Success (with Alexan Balekian) | Ep. 121 Sep 25, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this conversation, Alexan Balekian discusses the importance of building a community while simultaneously developing a career. He emphasizes the hustle culture prevalent in California, where individuals often engage in side hustles to meet the high cost of living. The dialogue explores the balance between personal and professional growth in a competitive environment.

Takeaways

Building a community is essential for career growth.
Side hustles are a common necessity in California.
The high cost of living drives the hustle culture.
Work ethic is a defining characteristic of Californians.
Utilizing social media can enhance community engagement.
Networking is crucial for career advancement.
California's lifestyle demands hard work and dedication.
Maintaining a side hustle can provide financial security.
Community support can lead to professional opportunities.
Balancing personal and professional life is key to success.

Sponsored by Switchboard.Live

How One Clerk Modernized City Meetings (with April Goad) | Ep. 120 Sep 23, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert speaks with April Goad, the clerk, recorder, and treasurer for Spring Hill, Tennessee. April shares how she began working for the city in 1987 after responding to a newspaper job advertisement. Although she initially intended to use the position to make connections with the nearby Saturn plant, she found purpose and fulfillment in local government and has remained in the role for nearly 40 years.

Takeaways

Technology like Champion Data Systems can streamline meeting preparation and compliance.
Long days and unexpected challenges are part of local government work.
Community engagement and understanding public priorities are crucial for success.
Effective communication skills are essential for working with diverse stakeholders.
Continuous learning and adaptation are key to a successful public service career.
Effective communication is crucial for success in local government.
Prioritizing community needs guides budget and policy decisions.
Long hours and diverse responsibilities characterize local government work.
Engaging with the community through meetings and transparency builds trust.

Sponsored by Switchboard.Live

Navigating a Career in Local Government (with Valerie Sanchez) | Ep. 119 Sep 21, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert interviews Valerie Sanchez, Chief Deputy Clerk of the Board for Orange County, California. Valerie shares her unexpected journey into public service, the challenges and rewards of her role, and the importance of communication and listening in local government. She discusses the impact of budget constraints and unfunded mandates on public services and encourages listeners to consider a career in public service for its rewarding nature.

Takeaways

Valerie's career in public service began unexpectedly through a temp agency.
The role of the Chief Deputy Clerk involves ensuring transparency in local government.
Unexpected challenges can arise in local government, especially during crises like COVID-19.
Public service can have a direct positive impact on individuals' lives.
Budget constraints significantly affect the ability to provide public services.
Unfunded mandates create challenges for local governments trying to comply with state laws.
Effective communication, especially listening, is crucial in local government roles.
Valerie finds satisfaction in knowing her work helps others, even if unrecognized.
A career in public service may not be financially rewarding but is fulfilling.
Valerie encourages those interested in making a difference to consider local government careers.

Sponsored by Switchboard.Live

From Temporary Job to Leadership (with Erin Hudson) | Ep. 118 Sep 18, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert speaks with Erin Hudson, the Communications and Outreach Director in Morrisville, North Carolina. They discuss various pathways to starting a career in local government, including the unique opportunity of working through a temp agency. Erin shares his personal journey from a temporary position to a permanent role, highlighting the importance of adaptability and collaboration in local government. The conversation also covers impactful community projects, navigating challenges, and maximizing resources within budget constraints. Erin offers valuable advice for those considering a career in local government, emphasizing the rewarding nature of public service.

Takeaways

Internships and volunteer work are common ways to start a career in local government.
Working as a temp can lead to full-time opportunities in local government.
Local government roles provide exposure to various departments and officials.
Career growth in local government can be achieved through diverse experiences.
Adaptability is crucial in local government as no two days are the same.
Collaboration with teams is essential for success in local government roles.
Community engagement is vital for effective strategic planning.
Digital engagement can help reduce costs in local government communications.
Local government offers unique career opportunities compared to the corporate world.
Aspiring professionals should not hesitate to explore local government positions.

Sponsored by Switchboard.Live

The Hidden Work of a City Clerk (with Evelyn Lees) | Ep. 117 Sep 16, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert interviews Evelyn Lees, the city clerk of Noblesville, Indiana. They discuss Evelyn's journey into local government, the responsibilities of a clerk, and the impact of budgeting and digital record-keeping on her work. Evelyn shares her experiences with community projects, particularly the restoration of a historic cemetery, and emphasizes the importance of communication and respect in public service. She also offers advice for those considering a career in local government, highlighting the need for a genuine desire to serve the community.

Takeaways

Evelyn transitioned from state work to local government after a decade.
The role of a clerk involves managing non-financial records and council documentation.
Community projects can have a significant positive impact, like cemetery restoration.
Budgeting is crucial, and stewardship of taxpayer money is a priority.
Digital records are important, but hard copies remain essential for permanence.
Communication skills are vital in public service to effectively assist the community.
Internships or volunteer positions can provide valuable insights into local government.
Public service is about helping people, not making profits.
Understanding the difference between city and county government is important for public interactions.
Respect and listening are key components of effective public service.

Sponsored by Switchboard.Live

Exploring Local Government Careers (with Tabitha Clark) | Ep. 116 Sep 14, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert interviews Tabitha Clark, Communication Director of Perry, Georgia. They discuss the journey into local government careers, the challenges and rewards of communication roles, the impact of AI, budgeting strategies, essential skills for effective communication, and considerations for those looking to enter the field. The conversation highlights the importance of community engagement and the unique dynamics within city communication teams.

Takeaways

You never know how you're gonna find your career.
Navigating unexpected challenges is part of the job.
AI is a new tool that can enhance communication.
Budgeting is crucial for effective communication strategies.
Skill sets must cater to diverse stakeholders.
Dealing with public feedback requires tact and strategy.
Regulatory compliance is essential in communication projects.
Passion drives the work in local government.
Unique roles contribute to the city's functioning.
Considerations for entering local government careers are vital.

Sponsored by Switchboard.Live

From Journalism to Government Communications (with Trevor Smith) | Ep. 115 Sep 11, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this episode of the Ground Floor Government Podcast, host Hugh Plappert interviews Trevor Smith, the communication manager of Meridian, Idaho. They discuss Trevor's unique career path from journalism to local government communications, the challenges and responsibilities of a communication manager, and the importance of building relationships within the community. Trevor shares insights on navigating limited resources, adapting to accessibility rules, and the passion that drives public service professionals. The conversation highlights the benefits of working in local government and offers advice for those considering a career in this field.

Takeaways

Local government careers offer unique opportunities for growth.
Transitioning from journalism to communications can be rewarding.
Communication managers play a vital role in community engagement.
Building relationships is key to effective communication.
Limited resources require creative problem-solving in communication.
Understanding diverse stakeholders is crucial for project success.
Career growth in government communications is achievable with the right mindset.
Accessibility rules impact communication strategies significantly.
Passion for public service drives effective communication.
Working in local government provides meaningful community impact.

Sponsored by Switchboard.Live

The Essential Role of a Town Clerk (with Laroue Shatzkin) | Ep. 114 Sep 09, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this episode, we explore the journey of Laroue, a town clerk in Cortlandt, New York, who shares her experiences in local government. From her family's political legacy to the challenges faced during COVID-19, Laroue discusses the vital role of a town clerk, the importance of community engagement, and the ongoing digital transformation in local governance. She emphasizes the significance of communication skills and offers advice for those aspiring to enter local government.

Takeaways

Laroue is a third-generation politically active woman.
She was elected as town clerk after serving as a district leader.
The role of a town clerk includes processing vital statistics and meeting minutes.
COVID-19 presented unique challenges for local government operations.
Digital transformation is crucial for improving public access to records.
Budgetary investments can significantly impact local government projects.
Effective communication is essential in dealing with the public.
Connecting with the community is key to being elected.
Innovative ideas, like giving out ring pops, can create memorable connections.
The role of a town clerk is multifaceted and requires adaptability.

Sponsored by Switchboard.Live

The Role of County Clerks in Elections (with Brianna Lennon) | Ep. 113 Sep 04, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert interviews Brianna Lennon, the county clerk of Boone County, Missouri. They discuss the various pathways into local government careers, the significant impact these roles can have on communities, and the challenges faced in election management, particularly regarding accessibility. Brianna shares insights on the satisfaction derived from public service and the stability offered by local government jobs compared to the corporate world.

Takeaways

Local government offers diverse career opportunities.
Elected officials can significantly impact their communities.
Election management involves various responsibilities and challenges.
Recruiting volunteers for elections can be difficult.
Accessibility in voting is crucial for inclusivity.
Working in local government provides job stability.
Transitioning from corporate to local government can be beneficial.
Public service roles can be fulfilling and impactful.
Engagement in local government can lead to career growth.
Understanding the election process is essential for county clerks.

Sponsored by Switchboard.Live

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