The HaltingWinter Podcast

Latest Episodes:

372: Book of the Week: Educated Aug 17, 2026

Show notes

Show Notes: MLDC Book of the Week – Educated: A MemoirEpisode 372 of The HaltingWinter Podcast

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Tara Westover never set foot in a classroom until she was seventeen. She grew up in a survivalist family in rural Idaho...no school, no outside voices, no reason to question the version of reality she'd been handed. What she built from there — BYU, Cambridge, a PhD — is one of the most remarkable stories of self-transformation in recent memory.

But the reason Seth is bringing Educated into the MLDC Summer Series isn't the academic journey. It's what Westover's story reveals about the maps we inherit: the assumptions, norms, and beliefs we accept as reality without ever choosing them. For local government leaders operating inside organizations with deep cultures and enormous pressure to conform, this book holds up a mirror that's worth looking into.

This episode introduces the week's themes: inherited assumptions, intellectual humility, the loyalty that makes room for honesty, and the difference between occupying a role and actually leading. If you're ready to take custody of your own leadership, this is the week for it. Learn more about the MLDC at haltingwinter.com/MLDC.

Join the MLDC

✔ A weekly podcast series breaking down one book for municipal applications ✔ Daily blog reflections and implementation tools ✔ Our monthly virtual mastermind sessions ✔ Monthly webinars with relevant training for local gov leaders ➡ Learn more at https://HaltingWinter.com/MLDC

Resources Mentioned

Book: Educated: A Memoir by Tara Westover

Connect with Seth Winterhalter

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sethwinterhalter
Website: https://HaltingWinter.com

371: Al Vandenberg: The Change Agent Aug 13, 2026

Show notes

Al Vanderberg: The Change Agent Building Trust Before Building Transformation

Episode 371 of The HaltingWinter Podcast Sponsored by Tyler Technologies

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What does it take to lead meaningful change in local government without leaving people behind?

In this episode of The HaltingWinter Podcast, Seth Winterhalter sits down with Al Vanderberg, County Administrator of Kent County, Michigan, to explore a career built on tackling complex challenges, transforming organizational culture, and earning trust through authentic leadership.

From an unexpected internship that introduced him to city management to leading two of Michigan's largest counties, Al shares the lessons he's learned over four decades in public service. He explains why lasting transformation starts with relationships, how great leaders bring people along through change, and why understanding your team may be the most important leadership skill of all.

Whether you're a city manager, county administrator, department director, or aspiring public servant, this conversation offers practical wisdom on leading with courage, building high-performing teams, and creating organizations where people genuinely want to do their best work.

About Al VanderbergAl Vanderberg serves as the County Administrator for Kent County, Michigan, where he leads one of the state's largest and most complex county governments. Throughout his career, he has served in both city and county leadership roles, including as City Manager of South Haven and County Administrator of Ottawa County. Known as a thoughtful change agent, Al has built a reputation for transforming organizational culture, developing high-performing leadership teams, and guiding communities through some of their most significant challenges while keeping people at the center of every decision.

This Episode is Sponsored by:

Tyler Technologies – the nation's leading provider of software and technology solutions built specifically for local government. From artificial intelligence and resident engagement to budgeting, planning, and public service delivery, Tyler helps communities operate more efficiently and serve residents more effectively. Learn more at https://tylertech.com/winter
The Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC) - The MLDC is a private leadership community designed exclusively for local government professionals. Through practical tools, meaningful conversations, and a nationwide network of peers, members gain the support and perspective needed to lead with greater confidence, clarity, and impact. https://haltingwinter.com/MLDC

Connect With Seth Winterhalter Seth Winterhalter is a keynote speaker, storyteller, and President of HaltingWinter, a national media company dedicated to telling the stories of local government. Through The HaltingWinter Podcast and the nationwide HaltingWinter Tour, he highlights the people and communities shaping America from the ground up, celebrating public servants, strengthening the profession, and inspiring the next generation to pursue lives of purpose and impact through local government.

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

370: Brenda Eivens: Growing with Purpose Aug 11, 2026

Show notes

Brenda Eivens: Growing with PurposeLeading One of America's Fastest-Growing Cities

Episode 370 of The HaltingWinter Podcast Sponsored by Tyler Technologies

What does it take to lead one community through decades of extraordinary growth without losing sight of the people who call it home?

In this episode of The HaltingWinter Podcast, Seth Winterhalter sits down with Brenda Eivens, City Manager of Cedar Park, Texas. Over more than two decades in the role, Brenda has helped guide one of America's fastest-growing cities through explosive population growth, major community investments, natural disasters, political change, and the evolving needs of its residents.

Brenda's journey into local government wasn't part of a grand career plan. An English major who began her career in human resources, she discovered municipal leadership through graduate school and a willingness to keep raising her hand when new opportunities appeared. That mindset eventually led her from HR Manager to Assistant City Manager and, ultimately, City Manager.

Together, Seth and Brenda explore what it means to build more than roads, libraries, parks, and public facilities. They discuss how great local government creates places where people feel connected, supported, and proud to call home.

Whether you're leading a rapidly growing community or simply looking to strengthen your leadership, Brenda offers practical wisdom on relationships, long-term planning, mentorship, and why the most important investment any organization can make is in its people.

About Brenda EivensBrenda Eivens has served as the City Manager of Cedar Park, Texas, since 2005, leading one of America's fastest-growing communities through decades of transformational growth. Beginning her career in human resources, Brenda rose through the organization by embracing new opportunities and investing in people. Known for her collaborative leadership style, she is passionate about building strong teams, planning for the future, and creating communities where residents can truly thrive.

This Episode is Sponsored by:

Tyler Technologies – the nation's leading provider of software and technology solutions built specifically for local government. From artificial intelligence and resident engagement to budgeting, planning, and public service delivery, Tyler helps communities operate more efficiently and serve residents more effectively. Learn more at https://tylertech.com/winter
The Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC) - The MLDC is a private leadership community designed exclusively for local government professionals. Through practical tools, meaningful conversations, and a nationwide network of peers, members gain the support and perspective needed to lead with greater confidence, clarity, and impact. https://haltingwinter.com/MLDC

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

369: Book of the Week: Ride of a Lifetime Aug 10, 2026

Show notes

Show Notes: MLDC Book of the Week – The Ride of a LifetimeEpisode 369 of The HaltingWinter Podcast

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What can a Hollywood CEO teach a city manager? More than you'd think.

In this episode, Seth Winterhalter introduces The Ride of a Lifetime by Bob Iger, the memoir of fifteen years leading The Walt Disney Company through one of the most remarkable institutional transformations in modern history. Strip away the acquisitions and the brand, and what Iger is really describing is the challenge of leading a large, complex, legacy organization under public scrutiny, with a deeply embedded culture and very little margin for visible failure.

Seth unpacks why this book translates so powerfully into the local government context and previews the five leadership principles the MLDC is exploring this week, from communicating priorities clearly to the quiet power of sustained integrity. If you lead in local government and you haven't read this one, this episode will make you want to.

Join the MLDC

The Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC) is a network of local government leaders from across North America, including city/county managers, administrators, and department heads, giving you access to: ✔ A weekly podcast series breaking down one book for municipal applications ✔ Daily blog reflections and implementation tools ✔ Our monthly virtual mastermind sessions ✔ Monthly webinars with relevant training for local gov leaders

➡ Learn more at https://HaltingWinter.com/MLDC

Resources Mentioned

Book: The Ride of a Lifetime by Robert Iger

Connect with Seth Winterhalter

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sethwinterhalter
Website: https://HaltingWinter.com

368: Erica LaCroix: There's a Place for You in Local Government Aug 06, 2026

Show notes

Erica LaCroix: There's a Place for You in Local GovernmentFinding Purpose Through an Unexpected Career Episode 368 of The HaltingWinter Podcast Sponsored by Tyler Technologies

Few people set out to become a town manager. Erica LaCroix certainly didn't.

As a young girl growing up in rural Maine, Erica dreamed of becoming a veterinarian. But life had other plans. What began as a temporary job in a city parking department eventually led her through public works, transportation, state government, law enforcement, employee benefits, and ultimately back home to Maine as the Town Manager of Farmington.

In this episode, Erica shares how curiosity, continuous learning, and a willingness to embrace unexpected opportunities shaped a career dedicated to serving communities. Along the way, she reminds us that local government needs people from every background and that meaningful work often finds us long before we know exactly where we're headed.

Whether you're a seasoned municipal leader, just beginning your career, or wondering how your unique skills might fit into public service, Erica's story is a powerful reminder that there truly is a place for you in local government.

About Erica LaCroixErica LaCroix is the Town Manager for Farmington, Maine, where she leads municipal operations and works alongside elected officials, staff, and community partners to strengthen one of western Maine's most vibrant communities. Her career has included leadership roles with the City of Lansing, the Virginia Department of Transportation, the Chesterfield County Sheriff's Office, and the Town of Winslow. A lifelong learner and passionate advocate for public service, Erica is committed to mentoring future leaders and helping people discover that there truly is a place for everyone in local government.

This Episode is Sponsored by:

Tyler Technologies – the nation's leading provider of software and technology solutions built specifically for local government. From artificial intelligence and resident engagement to budgeting, planning, and public service delivery, Tyler helps communities operate more efficiently and serve residents more effectively. Learn more at https://tylertech.com/winter
The Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC) - The MLDC is a private leadership community designed exclusively for local government professionals. Through practical tools, meaningful conversations, and a nationwide network of peers, members gain the support and perspective needed to lead with greater confidence, clarity, and impact. https://haltingwinter.com/MLDC

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

367: Garrett Corbin: Chasing Purpose, Not Prestige Aug 04, 2026

Show notes

Garrett Corbin: Chasing Purpose, Not PrestigeThe Career Advice Every Public Servant Needs Episode 367 of The HaltingWinter Podcast Sponsored by Tyler Technologies

Most people think successful careers are built by carefully following a plan. Garrett Corbin's story suggests otherwise.

As Town Manager of Carrabassett Valley, Maine, Garrett's path to local government was anything but predictable. He dreamed of working in Washington, D.C., studied international relations and law, served in state government, practiced as an attorney, and spent years advocating for municipalities through the Maine Municipal Association before discovering that his greatest opportunity to make a difference was in a small mountain town he had loved since childhood.

In this conversation, Garrett shares how each unexpected stop along his journey prepared him for leadership, why experience often teaches more than education, and why the most meaningful careers are built around purpose rather than prestige.

We also explore the unique role local government plays in shaping communities, the importance of leading with integrity, and why finding work you truly believe in can transform both your career and your life.

About Garrett CorbinGarrett Corbin is the Town Manager of Carrabassett Valley, Maine, home to Sugarloaf Mountain. Before becoming town manager, he spent more than a decade with the Maine Municipal Association as both a legislative advocate and attorney, helping municipalities navigate public policy and legal issues. Garrett holds degrees from Boston University, the University of Maine School of Law, and the University of Southern Maine, and is passionate about strengthening local government and serving the communities that make Maine unique.

This Episode is Sponsored by:

Tyler Technologies – the nation's leading provider of software and technology solutions built specifically for local government. From artificial intelligence and resident engagement to budgeting, planning, and public service delivery, Tyler helps communities operate more efficiently and serve residents more effectively. Learn more at https://tylertech.com/winter
The Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC) - The MLDC is a private leadership community designed exclusively for local government professionals. Through practical tools, meaningful conversations, and a nationwide network of peers, members gain the support and perspective needed to lead with greater confidence, clarity, and impact. https://haltingwinter.com/MLDC

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

366: Book of the Week: How to Win Friends... Aug 03, 2026

Show notes

Show Notes: MLDC Book of the Week – How to Win Friends and Influence PeopleEpisode 366 of The HaltingWinter Podcast

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Dale Carnegie published this book in 1936 and it has never gone out of print. Its core principles still fail to consistently show up in the average staff meeting, council session, or hard conversation. This week inside the MLDC, we're spending five days with Carnegie, not because his ideas are new, but because the gap between knowing them and actually practicing them is where most leadership breakdowns live. Seth unpacks why Carnegie's framework hits differently in local government, where authority has real limits, relationships are long, and the ability to lead through genuine influence rather than positional power isn't optional. If you're a local government leader who wants to go deeper, the MLDC is where this week's work is happening. Learn more at HaltingWinter.com/MLDC.

Join the MLDC

Resources Mentioned

Book: How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie

Connect with Seth Winterhalter

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sethwinterhalter
Website: https://HaltingWinter.com

365: Eric Swanson: Just Keep Showing Up Jul 30, 2026

Show notes

Eric Swanson: Just Keep Showing UpWhy Resilience Is a Leader's Greatest Strength Episode 365 of The HaltingWinter Podcast Sponsored by Tyler Technologies

Leadership isn't about avoiding adversity. It's about continuing to show up, especially when the path gets difficult.

In this episode of The HaltingWinter Podcast, Seth Winterhalter sits down with Eric Swanson, City Manager of Phoenix, Oregon, retired U.S. Air Force Reserve Colonel, and a public servant whose career has taken him from small-town Maine to North Carolina, South Dakota, and Oregon. Along the way, Eric has navigated political transitions, military deployments, community disasters, career setbacks, and one of Oregon's most devastating wildfires.

Eric shares how a childhood rooted in faith, family, and service shaped his approach to leadership long before he entered local government. He reflects on becoming a town manager at just 25 years old, learning to lead without having all the answers, and why asking for help is one of a leader's greatest strengths.

The conversation also explores the realities of city management that rarely make headlines: adapting to new councils and mayors, earning trust during times of uncertainty, balancing public service with family, and staying committed when criticism inevitably comes.

Eric also recounts returning to Phoenix after stepping away from city management, only to lead the community through COVID-19 and the devastating Almeda Fire. His story illustrates how trust, resilience, and strong relationships can help communities recover and rebuild even after unimaginable loss.

Whether you're a city manager, department director, elected official, or aspiring public servant, this episode is a powerful reminder that leadership isn't measured by a career without setbacks; it's measured by the courage to keep showing up.

About Eric SwansonEric Swanson is the City Manager of Phoenix, Oregon, and a retired Colonel in the U.S. Air Force Reserve with more than three decades of leadership in public service. Throughout his municipal career, Eric has served communities in Maine, North Carolina, South Dakota, and Oregon, leading organizations through political transitions, natural disasters, economic challenges, and long-term community development. Following the devastating 2020 Almeda Fire, he helped guide Phoenix's recovery by securing millions of dollars in grant funding and rebuilding critical infrastructure. Drawing from both military and municipal leadership, Eric is passionate about resilient leadership, public service, and helping communities thrive through trust, adaptability, and unwavering commitment.

This Episode is Sponsored by:

Tyler Technologies – the nation's leading provider of software and technology solutions built specifically for local government. From artificial intelligence and resident engagement to budgeting, planning, and public service delivery, Tyler helps communities operate more efficiently and serve residents more effectively. Learn more at https://tylertech.com/winter
The Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC) - The MLDC is a private leadership community designed exclusively for local government professionals. Through practical tools, meaningful conversations, and a nationwide network of peers, members gain the support and perspective needed to lead with greater confidence, clarity, and impact. https://haltingwinter.com/MLDC

Connect With Seth Winterhalter Seth Winterhalter is a keynote speaker, executive coach, and President of HaltingWinter Municipal Solutions. As host of The HaltingWinter Podcast, he shines a spotlight on the people behind local government, sharing the inspiring stories of city and county leaders from across the nation to elevate the profession, encourage those who serve, and inspire the next generation to pursue meaningful careers in public service.

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

364: Ken Pulskamp: We Are Architects of the Good Life Jul 28, 2026

Show notes

Ken Pulskamp: We Are Architects of the Good LifeHow Local Government Builds Thriving Communities Episode 364 of The HaltingWinter Podcast Sponsored by Tyler Technologies

In this episode of The HaltingWinter Podcast, Seth Winterhalter sits down with Ken Pulskamp, retired City Manager of Santa Clarita, former President of the League of California Cities City Managers Department, and current Executive Director of the California City Management Foundation (CCMF). Over a career spanning nearly four decades, Ken helped build one of the nation's most respected municipal organizations from the ground up while shaping a culture that continues to thrive today.

Ken shares the remarkable story of Santa Clarita's incorporation, what it was like to build a city government with virtually no bureaucracy, and the leadership principles that earned the organization national recognition. From hiring and organizational culture to integrity, enthusiasm, and decisive leadership, this conversation is filled with practical wisdom for every public servant.

If you've ever wondered what truly makes a community flourish, this episode offers a compelling answer: great communities begin with great leadership.

About Ken PulskampKen Pulskamp is the retired City Manager of Santa Clarita, California, where he spent more than three decades helping build one of the nation's most respected municipal organizations. After beginning his career with the City of Fresno and serving as Assistant City Manager in Bakersfield, Ken joined Santa Clarita shortly after its incorporation, helping shape the city's culture, operations, and long-term vision from the ground up before serving as City Manager from 2002 to 2012. He later served as Interim City Manager for the City of Burbank and currently serves as Executive Director of the California City Management Foundation (CCMF), where he supports and develops city managers across California. Throughout his distinguished career, Ken has been recognized for his commitment to ethical leadership, organizational excellence, and strengthening the local government profession.

This Episode is Sponsored by:

Tyler Technologies – the nation's leading provider of software and technology solutions built specifically for local government. From artificial intelligence and resident engagement to budgeting, planning, and public service delivery, Tyler helps communities operate more efficiently and serve residents more effectively. Learn more at https://tylertech.com/winter
The Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC) - The MLDC is a private leadership community designed exclusively for local government professionals. Through practical tools, meaningful conversations, and a nationwide network of peers, members gain the support and perspective needed to lead with greater confidence, clarity, and impact. https://haltingwinter.com/MLDC

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

363: Book of the Week: Unbroken Jul 27, 2026

Show notes

Show Notes: MLDC Book of the Week – The Splendid and the VileEpisode 363 of The HaltingWinter Podcast

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Louis Zamperini survived 47 days adrift in the Pacific Ocean and more than two years as a prisoner of war where he was subjected to conditions designed to break him completely. And yet, they didn't.

In this episode of The HaltingWinter Podcast, we continue our MLDC Summer Series [Stories That Shape Leaders] with Laura Hillenbrand's Unbroken, and explore why a World War II survival story might be the most important leadership reading you do this summer. We unpack what Zamperini's story reveals about how resilience actually gets built, why perception shapes outcomes more than circumstances do, what it really means to protect your identity when the environment is working against it, and the hidden cost of carrying old resentments into your present leadership.

If you want to go deeper on all five ideas this week, the MLDC is working through them with daily blog posts, podcast episodes, and a community of local government leaders. Head to haltingwinter.com/MLDC to join the community.

Join the MLDC

➡ Learn more at https://HaltingWinter.com/MLDC

Resources Mentioned