Ground Floor Government

Latest Episodes:

From Fire Chief to City Manager (with Chuck Winn) | Ep. 92 Jul 15, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert speaks with Chuck Winn, the City Manager of Bozeman, Montana. Chuck shares his journey from aspiring police officer to fire chief and eventually city manager, emphasizing the importance of community service and the unexpected paths that can lead to fulfilling careers in local government. The conversation explores the challenges of managing a growing city, the significance of partnerships, budgeting for community needs, and the vital role of internal services in local government operations. Chuck also highlights the importance of building relationships and encouraging new talent in the field.

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Takeaways

Always consider the impact of your career choices on your community.
Service-oriented careers can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Building a strong team is essential for overcoming challenges.
Community engagement is crucial for effective local governance.
Partnerships enhance problem-solving capabilities in local government.
Budgeting reflects community priorities and needs.
Digital accessibility is a growing challenge for rural areas.
Internal services are the backbone of successful local government operations.
Leadership in local government requires strong interpersonal skills.
Local government careers can be rewarding and impactful.

The Journey of a City Administrator (with Jeff Fiegenschuh) | Ep. 91 Jul 14, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert interviews Jeff Fiegenschuh, the City Administrator of Washington, Illinois. They discuss Jeff's journey into local government, the dynamics of working in smaller communities, and the challenges faced during unexpected events like COVID-19. Jeff shares insights on the importance of budgeting as a policy tool, the impact of community projects, and the significance of transparency and collaboration in local government. He also offers advice for those considering a career in public service, emphasizing the importance of relationship building and mentorship.

Takeaways

Local government careers can impact communities positively.
Service and community involvement are key motivators.
Working in smaller communities allows for diverse responsibilities.
COVID-19 presented unique challenges for local governments.
Successful projects leave lasting impacts on communities.
Budgeting is a strategic priority plan for local governments.
Infrastructure planning is crucial for long-term community health.
Transparency and communication are vital for community trust.
Building relationships is essential for effective governance.
Mentorship can guide new professionals in local government.

The Growth of Communication in Local Government (with Kara Roberson) | Ep. 90 Jul 10, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert interviews Kara Roberson, the Strategic Communication Officer in Wentzville, Missouri. They discuss Kara's journey into local government, her career growth, and the evolution of communication strategies within local government. Kara shares insights on the challenges of reactive communication, innovative projects that engage the community, and the unique aspects of working in local government. The conversation highlights the importance of strategic communication in fostering community relationships and enhancing public service.

Takeaways

Kara Roberson's family history influenced her career in local government.
Transitioning from nonprofit to local government can be seamless.
Local government offers diverse career paths and growth opportunities.
Effective communication is crucial for engaging residents.
Reactive communication often stems from social media feedback.
Innovative projects can enhance community engagement.
Building an audience through fun content can aid in crisis communication.
Strategic communication requires understanding various departmental needs.
Local government positions offer stability and community connection.
Passion for public service drives individuals in local government.

Navigating Election Challenges (with Lisa Goodwin) | Ep. 89 Jul 08, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert interviews Lisa Goodwin, the City Clerk of Bangor, Maine. They discuss Lisa's journey in local government, the challenges faced during the 2024 election, and the positive impact of community projects. Lisa shares insights on budgeting, resource management, and the essential people skills required in local government. The conversation also touches on ADA compliance, the broad scope of the City Clerk's role, and the importance of collaboration across departments. Lisa emphasizes her passion for public service and the need for attention to detail in her work, as well as the challenges of adapting to new technology. Finally, they explore the diverse employment opportunities in local government and how individuals can prepare for a career in this field.

Takeaways

Not every position in local government may be the right one for you.
There's a lot of pressure in managing elections.
Community projects can have a lasting positive impact.
Budgeting is crucial in local government operations.
People skills are essential for effective communication.
ADA compliance is important for accessibility in elections.
The City Clerk's role encompasses a wide range of responsibilities.
Collaboration is key in local government departments.
Public service is rewarding and fulfilling.
Volunteering can provide valuable experience in local government.

From Business to Public Service (with Frederick Tobar) | Ep. 88 Jul 06, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this conversation, Frederick Tobar shares his journey in local government, highlighting the diverse opportunities available and the importance of adaptability and people skills. He discusses his various roles, the challenges faced, and the positive impact of local projects on the community. Frederick emphasizes the value of a helpful attitude and the significance of understanding the connection between numbers and people's emotions in public service.

Takeaways

Local government offers diverse career paths and opportunities.
Adaptability is key in navigating different roles.
Community projects can have a significant positive impact.
People skills are essential in government roles.
A helpful attitude can enhance job satisfaction.
Internships can lead to unexpected career paths.
Understanding regulations is crucial for effective communication.
Collaboration between departments is vital for success.
Maintaining a positive outlook can open doors for advancement.
Realizing the impact of your work on the community is important.

From Music to Local Government (with Rick Dave) | Ep. 87 Jul 03, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this episode, Hugh Plappert interviews Rick Dave, an IT technician in local government, exploring his journey from a music background to a career in local government technology. Rick shares insights on the impact of local government on communities, the importance of technology and people skills, and how he navigates challenges in his role. He emphasizes the need for continuous learning and adaptation in a fast-paced environment, while also discussing the future of AV projects and the importance of accessibility in government services.

Takeaways

Rick's journey began with music, leading to a career in AV and IT.
Local government has a significant impact on community well-being.
Technology in local government requires creativity and resourcefulness.
People skills are essential for working in local government.
Understanding regulations is crucial for implementing new technology.
Documentation is key for ensuring continuity in government operations.
Rick values the trust placed in him to expand his role.
The future of AV projects in local government looks promising.
Continuous learning is vital in the fast-evolving tech landscape.
Networking and seeking help from others can enhance career growth.

Understanding the Role of County Government (with Melissa Agard) | Ep. 86 Jul 01, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert interviews Melissa Agard, County Executive of Dane County, Wisconsin. They discuss Melissa's journey from being a recipient of local government services to leading the county. The conversation covers the breadth of county government services, the importance of crisis management, and the successes achieved in the community. Melissa emphasizes the need for compassion and service in local government, encouraging individuals, especially single mothers, to pursue careers in public service. The episode concludes with a call to action for community engagement and support.

Takeaways

Working in local government has a unique impact on lives.
County government oversees a wide range of services.
Crisis management is a critical aspect of local government.
Successes in local government often go unnoticed.
Local government operates as a service industry.
Compassion and curiosity are essential in public service.
Single mothers can have successful careers in local government.
Everyone has value and purpose in public service.
Community engagement is vital for local government success.
Local government provides opportunities for diverse careers.

From Community Organizer to County Executive (with Steuart Pittman) | Ep. 85 Jun 29, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert interviews Steuart Pittman, the elected County Executive of Anne Arundel County, Maryland. Pittman shares his journey from community advocacy to local government leadership, discussing the challenges and triumphs he faced, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. He highlights significant projects, such as the Crownsville Hospital Memorial Park, and emphasizes the importance of public engagement in restoring trust in government. Pittman encourages listeners to consider careers in local government, stressing that every skill set can contribute to community improvement.

Takeaways

Steuart Pittman transitioned from community advocacy to local government leadership.
His experience during COVID-19 highlighted the importance of adaptability in crisis management.
The Crownsville Hospital project aims to create a healing space and honor the history of mental health care.
Engaging the public is crucial for restoring trust in government.
Local government offers diverse career opportunities for various skill sets.
Pittman emphasizes the need for collaboration among different departments.
He believes that government can effectively address community needs when trust is established.
Public engagement helps citizens feel heard, even if their demands aren't fully met.
Pittman encourages skepticism towards government as a pathway to meaningful engagement.
His podcast serves as a platform for deeper discussions on local governance and community issues.

From Administrative Assistant to City Clerk (with Addie Balester) | Ep. 84 Jun 26, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this episode, Hugh Plappert interviews Addie Balester, the Clerk of the Council for Cleveland Heights, Ohio. They discuss Addie's journey into local government, the challenges she faced, the importance of finance in council actions, and the need for transparency and accessibility in government processes. Addie shares insights on cross-department collaboration, opportunities for aspiring local government workers, and the passion that drives her in her role.

Takeaways

Unexpected is a common word when we talk to people about their career in local government.
I didn't want to be a politician, but what could I do behind the scenes?
I had no idea really what I was doing.
I had to figure out how to communicate and keep things moving.
Implementing that change has been a game changer.
Finance plays a major role in what council does.
Digital ADA accessibility is very important.
I work for city council, I don't work for the mayor.
Continuing education is constant.
No two days are the same.

From Secret Service to County Leadership (with Harold Collins) | Ep. 83 Jun 24, 2026

Show notes

Summary

In this episode, Harold Collins shares his journey from aspiring to join the Secret Service to becoming the Chief Administrative Officer of Shelby County, Tennessee. He discusses his early experiences in local government, the challenges he faces in administration, and the significant projects aimed at improving community health and education. Collins emphasizes the importance of public service and encourages others to consider careers in local government, highlighting the fulfillment that comes from serving the community.

Takeaways

Harold Collins began his career in local government through an internship.
His experiences in the courtroom shaped his understanding of government and law enforcement.
Collins worked in the DA's office focusing on juvenile crime and truancy.
He served on the Memphis City Council for eight years, gaining valuable experience.
Collins emphasizes the emotional engagement required in county administration.
He believes in the joy of serving the community and making a difference.
Shelby County is investing in a new hospital to improve healthcare access.
A new high school is being built in Shelby County after 60 years without one.
Collins encourages young people to find their passion in public service.
Working in government is about fulfillment, not financial gain.

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