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    Government

    The HaltingWinter Podcast

    The HaltingWinter Podcast tells the stories of the people who keep our communities running.

    Hosted by Seth Winterhalter, keynote speaker, storyteller, and founder of HaltingWinter Media, the podcast features candid conversations with city managers, county administrators, department directors, elected officials, and public servants from across the country.

    Each episode goes beyond policies and procedures to explore leadership, culture, innovation, public service, and the personal journeys of those entrusted with serving their communities. You’ll hear stories of resilience, purpose, difficult decisions, meaningful impact, and the lessons that shape exceptional leaders.

    Whether you work in local government, aspire to public service, or simply want a deeper appreciation for the people behind the places we call home, The HaltingWinter Podcast offers thoughtful conversations that inform, challenge, and inspire.

    Because America runs on local government. We’re here to tell its story.

    Advertise

    Copyright: © All rights reserved

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    Latest Episodes:
    171: Book of the Week: The Happiness of Pursuit May 05, 2025
    Show notes

    Show Notes: Book of the Week – "The Happiness of Pursuit" Episode 171 of The HaltingWinter Podcast (Part 1 of 5: "The Happiness of Pursuit" Series)

    Episode Overview

    In this kickoff episode, Seth Winterhalter introduces a concept that feels revolutionary for municipal leaders: reclaiming personal fulfillment in the middle of public service. Drawing from Chris Guillebeau's The Happiness of Pursuit, Seth challenges the idea that leadership must come at the cost of your own passion, purpose, and identity.

    This episode explores how rediscovering a personal "quest"—whether creative, physical, intellectual, or adventurous—can actually make you a more grounded, resilient, and effective city leader.

    Key Takeaways
    • Why burnout often stems from disconnection, not just overwork

    • The difference between a hobby and a meaningful personal quest

    • Real examples of city leaders pursuing creative, physical, and restorative goals

    • How contrast creates clarity and joy outside—and inside—the office

    • Why your leadership is strengthened when your identity isn't swallowed by your role

    • The power of presence, perspective, and purpose through pursuit

    This Week's Journey in the MLDC

    Monday: The leader's quest—why it matters now more than ever Tuesday–Thursday: Finding your pursuit, making space for it, and building support Friday: Virtual Book Club – From pursuit to legacy, how personal fulfillment enhances public impact

    Special: Free 7-Day MLDC Trial

    Join the Municipal Leadership Development Circle and get:

    • All five episodes in the Happiness of Pursuit series

    • Daily leadership tools and reflection prompts

    • Entry to this week's live Virtual Book Club

    • Full access to MLDC's nationwide community of city managers and municipal leaders 🔗 Start your free trial now at HaltingWinter.com

    Resources Mentioned
    • Book: The Happiness of Pursuit by Chris Guillebeau

    • MLDC: The Municipal Leadership Development Circle

    • Weekly Newsletter – The Leader's Lens

    Connect with Seth
    • LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sethwinterhalter

    • Website: www.HaltingWinter.com


    170: Dawn Peters: The Shame No City Manager Talks About (But Everyone Feels) May 01, 2025
    Show notes

    Show Notes: Dawn Peters - "The Shame No City Manager Talks About (But Everyone Feels)"Episode 170 of The HaltingWinter Podcast

    Overview In this episode of the HaltingWinter Podcast, Seth Winterhalter interviews Dawn Peters, Executive Director for both the Illinois and Wisconsin City and County Management Associations and Assistant Director of the Center for Governmental Studies at Northern Illinois University.

    Dawn shares her unexpected journey from growing up in a family restaurant business to becoming one of the most influential figures in municipal leadership development across the Midwest. Their conversation explores the emotional challenges of public service leadership, the vital importance of professional support networks, and strategies for sustainable leadership in demanding municipal roles. Dawn's candid reflections on vulnerability, shame, and asking for help offer powerful insights for municipal leaders at all stages of their careers.

    Episode Highlights:

    • An Unconventional Path to Public Service: How Dawn evolved from hospital auxiliary volunteer to leading two state municipal associations without ever serving as a city manager
    • Bold Career Moves: The pivotal moment when Dawn boldly told a mentor "I want your job" and how that single conversation changed her professional trajectory
    • The Municipal Leadership Support Gap: Why city managers need protected spaces to be vulnerable and share challenges without public scrutiny
    • Work-Life Integration Reality: Why "work-life balance" is a myth and how leaders can instead leverage seasonal cycles for sustainable leadership
    • Breaking Through the Shame Barrier: The emotional burden that city managers carry and why asking for help is both essential and incredibly difficult
    • Creating Transformative Internships: How meaningful internships expose future leaders to the full municipal experience rather than just busy work
    • Leadership Through Self-Advocacy: The power of asking for what you want and how advocating for yourself creates unexpected opportunities
    • The Midwest Leadership Institute: An innovative program helping leaders develop emotional intelligence to better navigate interpersonal dynamics
    • Invisible Impact: The professional challenge of taking credit in a role where you're taught to stay behind the scenes
    • Finding Your Community: How professional associations provide crucial support, mentorship, and safe spaces for growth

    Connect with Dawn Peters:

    • LinkedIn: Connect with Dawn

    Connect With Seth Winterhalter

    • LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sethwinterhalter
    • Website: www.HaltingWinter.com

    About HaltingWinter Municipal Solutions: At HaltingWinter, our mission is to build stronger cities through stronger leaders by providing municipal leadership development services, rooted in the ABCs of Impactful Leadership framework. To explore how we can strengthen you and your municipality, visit haltingwinter.com.

    Upcoming Events: Don't miss Seth Winterhalter as he keynotes the 2025 APWA South Carolina Chapter Annual Conference in Spartanburg, June 23rd-26th. Register here: https://southcarolina.apwa.org/event/2025-annual-conference/

    The MLDC The Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC) is a community for city managers and administrators from around the country to find support personally and professionally as they lead thriving teams and communities. We're giving podcast listeners 20% off an annual subscription with a 7-day FREE trial to make sure it's the right fit for you. Visit the link below and use the coupon code "PODCAST" when you register today! --> JOIN HERE


    169: Peter Crichton: From 'The Dark Side' to Lasting Impact: Leading with Your Glass Half Full Apr 29, 2025
    Show notes

    Show Notes: Peter Crichton: From 'The Dark Side' to Lasting Impact: Leading with Your Glass Half Full Episode 169 of The HaltingWinter Podcast

    Overview In this episode of the HaltingWinter Podcast, Seth Winterhalter interviews Peter Crichton, retired city and county manager turned author. With over four decades in public service, Peter shares his remarkable journey from a small town in northern Maine (Mars Hill) to leading Cumberland County for nearly 20 years and serving as city manager of Auburn. The conversation explores Peter's leadership philosophy detailed in his new book "Leading with My Glass Half Full," the challenges and opportunities of county management, and his innovative approaches to building effective teams and implementing strategic plans that transformed local government in Maine.

    Episode Highlights:

    • Small Town Roots, Big Impact: How growing up in Mars Hill (population under 2,000) and attending town meetings with his father at age 8 sparked Peter's passion for local government
    • From Political Aspirations to Management Excellence: Peter's transition from Democratic Party involvement to appointed leadership positions in local government
    • Building Organizational Capacity: Creating Cumberland County's first-ever Finance Director position
    • Strategic Planning for Buy-In: Using strategic planning to build relationships and trust with municipal officials who viewed county government as "the dark side"
    • Team-Building Philosophy: The powerful insight that "you can't fly like an eagle if you're flying with turkeys" and how Peter built dream teams throughout his career
    • Stepping Back to Move Forward: Peter's unconventional leadership approach of letting others lead strategic initiatives rather than being the face of every project
    • Working with Elected Officials: Navigating the complexities of having just three county commissioners who could make or break a county manager's career
    • Finding Work-Life Balance: Peter's practice of taking his children's birthdays off and the critical role his wife Jen played in major career decisions
    • Career Transitions: The wisdom of knowing when to move on, including Peter's shift from Cumberland County to Auburn after 18+ years
    • Strategic Plan Implementation: How Peter adapted from 8 committees to 3 at Auburn to make his strategic vision more achievable while maintaining impact

    Connect with Peter Crichton:

    • LinkedIn: Connect with Peter Here
    • Purchase "Leading with My Glass Half Full" on Amazon

    Connect With Seth Winterhalter

    • LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sethwinterhalter
    • Website: www.HaltingWinter.com

    About HaltingWinter Municipal Solutions: At HaltingWinter, our mission is to build stronger cities through stronger leaders by providing municipal leadership development services, rooted in the ABCs of Impactful Leadership framework. To explore how we can strengthen you and your municipality, visit haltingwinter.com.

    The MLDC The Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC) is a community for city managers and administrators from around the world to find support personally and professionally as they lead thriving teams and communities. We're giving podcast listeners 20% off an annual subscription with a 7-day FREE trial to make sure it's the right fit for you. Visit the link below and use the coupon code "PODCAST" when you register today! --> JOIN HERE


    168: Book of the Week: Quiet Apr 28, 2025
    Show notes

    Show Notes: Book of the Week – "Quiet" Episode 168 of The HaltingWinter Podcast

    Episode Overview

    In this opening episode, Seth Winterhalter introduces Susan Cain's Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking through the lens of municipal leadership—and challenges the long-held assumption that louder leadership is better leadership.

    This isn't just a conversation about introverts. It's about power dynamics in meetings, hiring decisions, team structures, and public engagement. Seth shares how city leaders can build more balanced, inclusive cultures by recognizing and elevating quieter forms of strength—often hiding in plain sight.

    Key Takeaways
    • Why some of your best thinkers may be the quietest voices in the room

    • The danger of the "Extrovert Ideal" in public leadership

    • How insight often arrives in silence, not speech

    • Practical ways to structure meetings, hiring, and communication to include all styles

    • The difference between volume and value in leadership

    • Real municipal examples of how introverted insight changed the game

    This Week's Journey in the MLDC

    Monday: Why quiet strength is often overlooked—and how to start seeing it Tuesday–Thursday: Fixing meetings, redesigning teams, and rethinking public engagement Friday: Virtual Book Club – Applying introvert wisdom to local government

    Special: Free 7-Day MLDC Trial

    Your free trial includes:

    • All five episodes in the Quiet series

    • Daily blog reflections and leadership tools

    • Entry to Friday's Virtual Book Club with city managers across the U.S.

    • Full access to the MLDC's learning library and community platform 🔗 Start your trial today at HaltingWinter.com

    Resources Mentioned
    • Book: Quiet by Susan Cain

    • MLDC: The Municipal Leadership Development Circle

    • Weekly Newsletter – The Leader's Lens

    Connect with Seth
    • LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sethwinterhalter

    • Website: www.HaltingWinter.com


    167: Shawna Davis: Blazing Your Own Trail, Balancing the Municipal Tightrope, and Fighting Burnout with Four Paws Apr 24, 2025
    Show notes

    Show Notes: Shawna Davis: Blazing Your Own Trail, Balancing the Municipal Tightrope, and Fighting Burnout with Four Paws Episode 167 of The HaltingWinter Podcast

    Overview In this episode of the HaltingWinter Podcast, Seth Winterhalter interviews Shawna Davis, City Administrator of Odessa, Missouri. Shawna shares her journey from a small-town Illinois farm background to becoming one of Missouri's rising municipal leaders. With remarkable initiative and strategic career planning, Shawna transitioned from finance director to city administrator in just two years. Their conversation explores the realities of small-city leadership (managing 45 employees versus Olathe's 1,000+), the delicate dance between administrative leadership and elected official direction, and practical strategies for sustainable leadership in demanding municipal roles.

    Episode Highlights:

    • Creating Your Own Opportunities: How Shawna proactively created her own internship by cold-calling a city administrator to job shadow when no formal positions existed
    • Strategic Career Advancement: Shawna's deliberate path from Illinois Department of Corrections budget analyst to Olathe fellowship to Odessa leadership
    • Small City Leadership Complexity: Managing a city of 5,600 with just 45 employees means wearing multiple hats - from finance director to public works director
    • From Struggling Student to Finance Expert: The ironic journey from almost failing an accounting class in college to specializing in municipal finance and budgeting
    • Balancing Municipal Stakeholders: Navigating the three-headed challenge of elected officials, staff, and citizens while maintaining a clear strategic direction
    • Breaking Out of "We've Always Done It This Way": Bringing innovation to small-city operations, starting with basic technology upgrades like laptops
    • The First Two Years of City Administration: Transitioning from keeping wheels turning to establishing strategic direction with elected officials
    • Finding Personal Sustainability: Getting a dog as a deliberate strategy to create better work-life boundaries and prevent burnout
    • Networking for Success: Leveraging conferences, professional associations, and experienced city managers as resources
    • Contract Wisdom: The importance of carefully reviewing city administrator contracts with legal counsel to protect both parties

    Connect with Shawna Davis:

    • LinkedIn: Connect with Shawna Here

    Connect With Seth Winterhalter

    • LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sethwinterhalter
    • Website: www.HaltingWinter.com

    About HaltingWinter Municipal Solutions: At HaltingWinter, our mission is to build stronger cities through stronger leaders by providing municipal leadership development services, rooted in the ABCs of Impactful Leadership framework. To explore how we can strengthen you and your municipality, visit haltingwinter.com.

    Upcoming Events: Don't miss Seth Winterhalter as he keynotes the Missouri City and County Managers Association Spring Conference at the Margaritaville Resort. Register now at www.momanagers.org/191/Spring-Conference.

    The MLDC The Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC) is a community for city managers and administrators from around the country to find support personally and professionally as they lead thriving teams and communities. We're giving podcast listeners 20% off your subscription with a 7-day FREE trial to make sure it's the right fit for you. Visit the link below and use the coupon code "PODCAST" when you register today! --> JOIN HERE


    166: David Cline: Undercover Cops, Crime-Ridden Hotels, and the Green River Killer Apr 22, 2025
    Show notes

    Show Notes: David Cline: Undercover Cops, Crime-Ridden Hotels, and the Green River Killer Episode 166 of The HaltingWinter Podcast

    Overview In this compelling episode of the HaltingWinter Podcast, Seth Winterhalter interviews David Cline, a retired city administrator and current affiliate associate professor at the University of Washington's Evans School of Public Policy and Governance. David shares his remarkable journey into city management from working with undercover narcotics officers to transforming crime-ridden neighborhoods as a city administrator. His career spans decades of public service, including roles at King County, the city of Burien, Lake Forest Park, and Tukwila. The conversation explores the purpose-driven nature of municipal work, the delicate balance between professional impact and family life, and how strategic leadership can transform communities for generations.

    Episode Highlights:

    • From Student to Undercover Work: David's early career included an internship with an undercover narcotics task force, complete with flak jackets and search warrants
    • Purpose-Driven Career: Why local government provides immediate impact and daily purpose unlike many other professions
    • Family First Philosophy: How David restructured his approach to leadership after realizing the toll it was taking on his personal relationships
    • Transforming Tukwila: The strategic initiatives that turned crime-ridden areas—including former hunting grounds of the Green River Killer—into safe, vibrant neighborhoods
    • 400-Officer Operation: Leading a massive law enforcement initiative to take down criminal enterprises that had plagued the community for decades
    • Strategic Planning: Creating a 10-year vision that guided community development long after his tenure
    • Global Perspective: How David's experiences in Indonesia and Bolivia shaped his approach to community engagement and diversity
    • Work-Life Integration: Practical tactics for balancing municipal leadership with family life, including coaching youth sports and creating boundaries
    • Mentoring the Next Generation: David's current role teaching and inspiring students to pursue careers in local government
    • The Power of Internships: How early career experiences in municipal government shape future leaders and create lasting professional connections
    • From 30 to 350 Staff: The unique challenges of leading organizations of different sizes and compositions

    Connect with David Cline:

    • LinkedIn: Connect with Jimmy Here

    Connect With Seth Winterhalter

    • LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sethwinterhalter
    • Website: www.HaltingWinter.com

    About HaltingWinter Municipal Solutions: At HaltingWinter, our mission is to build stronger cities through stronger leaders by providing municipal leadership development services, rooted in the ABCs of Impactful Leadership framework. To explore how we can strengthen you and your municipality, visit haltingwinter.com.

    The MLDC The Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC) is a community for city managers and administrators from around the country to find support personally and professionally as they lead thriving teams and communities. We're giving podcast listeners 20% off your subscription with a 7-day FREE trial to make sure it's the right fit for you. Visit the link below and use the coupon code "PODCAST" when you register today! --> JOIN HERE


    165: Book of the Week: Unreasonable Hospitality Apr 21, 2025
    Show notes

    Show Notes: MLDC Book of the Week – "Unreasonable Hospitality" Episode 165 of The HaltingWinter Podcast (Part 1 of 5: "Unreasonable Hospitality" Series)

    Episode Overview

    Seth Winterhalter launches a fresh 5-part series exploring Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara—one of the most compelling books on service, culture, and leadership in the last decade. In this kickoff episode, Seth unpacks what it means to go beyond great customer service and deliver unforgettable, human-centered experiences in the world of municipal government.

    Drawing lessons from how Eleven Madison Park became the world's #1 restaurant, Seth challenges city managers and department leaders to reimagine their daily interactions with residents—not as transactions, but as opportunities for connection and impact. This episode sets the foundation for transforming your team's culture from compliance-driven to citizen-centered.

    Key Takeaways
    • What "unreasonable hospitality" looks like in a municipal setting

    • How to shift from rule-following to creative problem-solving without breaking policy

    • The difference between excellence (competency) and warmth (connection)—and why you need both

    • Practical examples of turning friction-filled processes into moments of value and trust

    • Why empowering frontline staff is essential to transforming service culture

    • How your leadership actions create permission for your team's hospitality mindset

    This Week's Journey in the MLDC

    Monday: The big idea—bringing unreasonable hospitality into public service Tuesday–Thursday: Deep dives into leadership self-awareness, empowerment, and memorable moments Friday: Virtual Book Club – Live discussion on hospitality-driven city culture

    Special: Free 7-Day MLDC Trial

    Join the Municipal Leadership Development Circle and get:

    • All five episodes in the Unreasonable Hospitality series

    • Daily insights, blog reflections, and leadership tools

    • Friday's Virtual Book Club with municipal peers across the country

    • Full access to MLDC's resource library and community platform 🔗 Start your free trial now at HaltingWinter.com

    Resources Mentioned
    • Book: Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara

    • MLDC: The Municipal Leadership Development Circle: Learn More

    • Weekly Newsletter – The Leader's Lens

    Connect with Seth
    • LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sethwinterhalter

    • Website: www.HaltingWinter.com


    164: Jimmy Liles: The Think Tank Approach to Municipal Innovation Apr 17, 2025
    Show notes

    Show Notes: Jimmy Liles: The Think Tank Approach to Municipal Innovation Episode 164 of The HaltingWinter Podcast

    Overview In this episode of the HaltingWinter Podcast, Seth Winterhalter interviews Jimmy Liles, City Administrator of Nixa, Missouri. Jimmy shares his remarkable journey from a 20-year career in law enforcement to municipal leadership, where he's established an award-winning culture of innovation. Through his "Think Tank" initiative and commitment to organizational culture, Jimmy has helped Nixa navigate rapid growth while winning the Missouri Municipal League Innovation Award five times. Their conversation explores creative approaches to engaging employees at all levels, breaking down departmental silos, and maintaining work-life boundaries in demanding municipal roles.

    Episode Highlights:

    • Unconventional Career Path: Jimmy's transition from police officer to chief of police to city administrator without the traditional MPA background
    • The Think Tank Initiative: How Jimmy created a cross-departmental team of employees at all levels to generate innovative solutions for the city
    • Award-Winning Innovation: The approaches that have helped Nixa win the Missouri Municipal League Innovation Award five times
    • Three-Step Cultural Approach: Jimmy's method for organizational culture: define it (integrity, service, accountability), build it, and sustain it
    • Breaking Down Departmental Silos: Discovering interconnections between municipal departments when moving from police to administration
    • Small Town Growth: Managing Nixa's expansion from around 5,000 to 25,000 residents while maintaining its hometown feel and community values
    • Setting Boundaries with Elected Officials: Establishing communication protocols with council members to protect personal time
    • Relationships as Foundation: Building trust with council members and staff through open communication and humility
    • Leading from the Middle: Jimmy's philosophy of not needing to be the smartest person in the room to be an effective leader
    • Work-Life Integration: Creating intentional boundaries through unplugged vacations and clear communication protocols

    Connect with Jimmy Liles:

    • LinkedIn: Connect with Jimmy Here

    Connect With Seth Winterhalter

    • LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sethwinterhalter
    • Website: www.HaltingWinter.com

    About HaltingWinter Municipal Solutions: At HaltingWinter, our mission is to build stronger cities through stronger leaders by providing municipal leadership development services, rooted in the ABCs of Impactful Leadership framework. To explore how we can strengthen you and your municipality, visit haltingwinter.com.

    Upcoming Events: Don't miss Seth Winterhalter at the Missouri City and County Managers Association Spring Conference at the Margaritaville Resort. Register now at www.momanagers.org/191/Spring-Conference.

    The MLDC The Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC) is a community for city managers and administrators from around the country to find support personally and professionally as they lead thriving teams and communities. We're giving podcast listeners 20% off your subscription with a 7-day FREE trial to make sure it's the right fit for you. Visit the link below and use the coupon code "PODCAST" when you register today! --> JOIN HERE


    163: Luke Dyer: The Power of "Why Not Us? Why Not Now?" Apr 15, 2025
    Show notes

    Show Notes: Luke Dyer: The Power of "Why Not Us? Why Not Now?" Episode 163 of The HaltingWinter Podcast

    OverviewIn this episode of the HaltingWinter Podcast, Seth Winterhalter interviews Luke Dyer, Town Manager of Van Buren, Maine. Luke shares his remarkable journey from a 30-year career in law enforcement to municipal leadership, where he's leading a small-town revival that's capturing attention across the region. Through creative initiatives, university partnerships, and community engagement, Luke has transformed Van Buren from a struggling border town into a community with renewed pride and purpose. Their conversation explores the challenges of small-town revitalization, the impact of innovative thinking, and how municipal leaders can create momentum even with limited resources.

    Episode Highlights:

    • Unique Career Path: Luke's transition from criminal justice to law enforcement to municipal leadership, including his "Forrest Gumpy" life of unexpected opportunities
    • Border Town Dynamics: Managing a community on the US-Canada border and navigating international relationships, especially amid changing tariff policies
    • Small Town Revival: How Van Buren went from owning over half its downtown buildings due to tax acquisition to hosting events that draw over 1,300 visitors
    • The Pickleball Effect: Converting an unused hockey rink into pickleball courts as the catalyst for community engagement and municipal improvements
    • University Partnerships: Leveraging relationships with Drexel University and Georgetown University to access expertise worth over $125,000 at minimal cost
    • Community Heart and Soul: Implementing a program that brought residents together to identify what they truly value about their town
    • Creative Problem-Solving: Finding opportunities in challenges and turning small wins into momentum for larger projects
    • The Documentary Project: "Reviving the Gateway" and how capturing the town's transformation has further galvanized community pride
    • Leadership Insights: Building council support through visible successes and learning to listen to what residents truly want
    • Work-Life Integration: Balancing the demands of municipal leadership with personal interests like snowmobiling, fishing, and visiting baseball parks

    Connect with Luke Dyer:

    • LinkedIn: Connect with Luke Here
    • Watch the "Reviving the Gateway" Documentary

    Connect With Seth Winterhalter

    • LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sethwinterhalter
    • Website: www.HaltingWinter.com

    About HaltingWinter Municipal Solutions: At HaltingWinter, our mission is to build stronger cities through stronger leaders by providing municipal leadership development services, rooted in the ABCs of Impactful Leadership framework. To explore how we can strengthen you and your municipality, visit haltingwinter.com.

    The MLDC The Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC) is a community for city managers and administrators from around the country to find support personally and professionally as they lead thriving teams and communities. We're giving podcast listeners 20% off your subscription with a 7-day FREE trial to make sure it's the right fit for you. Visit the link below and use the coupon code "PODCAST" when you register today! --> JOIN HERE


    162: Book of the Week: The Innovator's Dilemma Apr 14, 2025
    Show notes

    Show Notes: MLDC Book of the Week – "The Innovator's Dilemma" Episode 162 of The HaltingWinter Podcast (Part 1 of 5: "The Innovator's Dilemma" Series)

    Episode Overview

    Seth Winterhalter launches a brand-new 5-part series on The Innovator's Dilemma by Clayton M. Christensen, turning its private-sector lessons into actionable insight for municipal leadership. In this episode, Seth unpacks the core paradox: cities that are well-managed and process-driven can still fall behind when faced with disruptive change.

    Through real municipal examples—from digital engagement to economic development shifts—Seth highlights how traditional success metrics and planning models can blind even great leaders to innovation happening at the margins. Learn how to navigate this tension by creating capacity for exploration alongside operational excellence.

    Key Takeaways
    • What the "innovator's dilemma" looks like in a municipal context

    • Why cities doing everything "right" can still fall behind in service delivery

    • How disruption often starts on the edges—then reshapes resident expectations

    • Why traditional comprehensive planning can miss emerging trends

    • The organizational patterns that make innovation difficult (and how to overcome them)

    • How to build parallel structures for experimentation without sacrificing reliability

    This Week's Journey in the MLDC

    Monday: Understanding the innovator's dilemma for municipal leaders Tuesday–Thursday: Deep dives on disruption awareness, resource allocation, and culture Friday: Virtual Book Club – Real-world applications and interactive discussion

    Special: Free 7-Day MLDC Trial

    Experience the Municipal Leadership Development Circle with full access to:

    • All five episodes from The Innovator's Dilemma series

    • Daily blog reflections and frameworks

    • Friday's live Virtual Book Club conversation

    • A nationwide community of municipal leaders 🔗 Start your free trial now at HaltingWinter.com

    Resources Mentioned
    • Book: The Innovator's Dilemma by Clayton Christensen

    • Weekly Newsletter – The Leader's Lens (free subscription)

    • Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC): Learn More

    Connect with Seth Winterhalter
    • LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sethwinterhalter

    • Website: www.HaltingWinter.com


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