The HaltingWinter Podcast

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362: Benjamin Marentette: The Leader Who Said No Jul 23, 2026

Show notes

Benjamin Marentette: The Leader Who Said NoWhen Self-Awareness Says "Not Yet" Episode 362 of The HaltingWinter Podcast Brought to you by Tyler Technologies

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Leadership isn't just about saying yes to the next opportunity. Sometimes the most courageous leadership decision is saying, "Not yet."

In this episode of The HaltingWinter Podcast, Seth Winterhalter sits down with Benjamin Marentette, City Manager of Traverse City, Michigan, to explore the unexpected journey that led him to one of local government's most influential leadership roles.

After spending years preparing for executive leadership—including earning an MBA and completing Harvard Kennedy School's Senior Executives in State and Local Government program—Benjamin was unanimously offered the city manager position. To the surprise of everyone around him, he turned it down.

Why?

Because he recognized something many leaders never do: he wasn't internally prepared for the responsibility that came with the role.

Benjamin shares how therapy, executive coaching, and intentional self-reflection helped him confront the fears, establish healthy boundaries, and develop the self-awareness necessary to eventually say yes with confidence. Along the way, he offers practical insights on building healthy organizational culture, creating environments where feedback is welcomed, leading with humility, and serving both employees and residents with genuine care.

This conversation is a powerful reminder that leadership development isn't just about gaining new skills; it's about becoming the kind of person others can trust to lead.

About Benjamin MarentetteBenjamin Marentette serves as the City Manager of Traverse City, Michigan, where he is leading organizational transformation focused on culture, strategic leadership, and exceptional public service. A lifelong public servant, Benjamin began his local government career at age 18 and has served in a variety of leadership roles, including City Clerk and Executive Director of the Traverse City-Garfield Township Recreation Authority. He holds an MBA in Finance and Leadership, completed the Senior Executives in State and Local Government program at Harvard Kennedy School, and earned Harvard's Public Leadership Credential with concentrations in Strategic Leadership and Negotiation. Benjamin is passionate about building healthy organizational cultures where employees feel valued, feedback is embraced, and communities 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

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

361: Tom Modica: Why Compliance Isn't Commitment Jul 21, 2026

Show notes

Tom Modica: Why Compliance Isn't CommitmentThe Leadership Approach That Inspires Ownership Episode 361 of The HaltingWinter Podcast Brought to you by Tyler Technologies

What separates teams that simply follow instructions from teams that truly take ownership?

According to Long Beach City Manager Tom Modica, the answer isn't better policies or tighter supervision. It's helping people understand why their work matters.

In this episode of The HaltingWinter Podcast, Seth sits down with Tom to explore a leadership philosophy built on communication, humility, and trust. Tom shares the journey that took him from working seasonal Parks & Recreation jobs in Tucson to leading one of America's largest cities, while offering practical lessons for city managers, assistant city managers, department heads, and anyone committed to building a stronger organizational culture.

Along the way, Tom discusses why saying "yes" to uncomfortable opportunities accelerated his career, how Long Beach became a national leader during the COVID-19 pandemic, and why local government leaders must do more than deliver services—they must create the conditions where communities and employees can thrive.

Whether you're leading a team of five or an organization of thousands, this conversation is filled with practical wisdom on developing people, communicating with purpose, and inspiring ownership instead of simple compliance.

About Tom ModicaTom Modica is the City Manager of Long Beach, California, where he leads one of the nation's largest and most diverse cities. Since joining the City in 2002, he has served in nearly every level of municipal leadership before being appointed City Manager in 2020. Under his leadership, Long Beach successfully navigated the COVID-19 pandemic, has become a growing hub for aerospace innovation through "Space Beach," is advancing affordable housing and economic development initiatives, and is preparing to host multiple events during the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. A passionate advocate for public service, Tom is known for his commitment to building strong organizational culture through humility, clear communication, and purpose-driven leadership.

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

360: Book of the Week: Splendid and the Vile Jul 20, 2026

Show notes

Show Notes: MLDC Book of the Week – The Splendid and the VileEpisode 360 of The HaltingWinter Podcast

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On May 10, 1940, Winston Churchill became Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, the same day Hitler invaded the Netherlands and Belgium. Weeks later, France would fall, and London would face nearly a year of nightly bombing. In this episode, Seth Winterhalter continues the MLDC Summer Series, Stories That Shape Leaders, with Erik Larson's The Splendid and the Vile — a vivid, deeply researched account of Churchill's first year as Prime Minister.

Seth breaks down why this book belongs on every municipal leader's shelf: the honest communication that built public trust even in Britain's darkest hour, the inner circle of advisors Churchill built and actually listened to, his insistence on one-page memos as a discipline of clear thinking, and the harder question of how leaders sustain themselves through a crisis with no clear end date. None of these are abstract history lessons...they're tools for anyone leading a city, county, or department through sustained pressure today.

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 Splendid and the Vile by Erik Larson

Connect with Seth Winterhalter

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

359: Bryan Poster: When Your Greatest Asset Retires Jul 16, 2026

Show notes

Bryan Poster: When Your Greatest Asset RetiresHow Technology Helps Preserve Institutional Knowledge Episode 359 of The HaltingWinter Podcast Brought to you by Tyler Technologies

Every local government is facing the same reality: some of its most experienced employees are nearing retirement. The question isn't if they'll leave—it's whether decades of institutional knowledge will leave with them.

In this episode of The HaltingWinter Podcast, Seth Winterhalter sits down with Bryan Poster, Borough Manager for Telford Borough, Pennsylvania, to discuss his unique journey from IT Director to Borough Manager and why technology is about far more than computers and software. It's about preserving knowledge, improving service, and preparing organizations for the future.

Drawing on more than two decades in municipal technology, Bryan shares practical lessons on leading organizational change, digitizing critical information, and helping communities move forward without losing the experience that has shaped them.

Whether you're a city manager, department director, HR professional, or aspiring leader, this conversation offers valuable insights on leading through change while honoring the people who built your organization.

About Bryan PosterBryan Poster is the Borough Manager for Telford Borough, Pennsylvania. Before becoming a manager, he spent more than two decades leading municipal technology initiatives, helping modernize operations, improve efficiency, and support every department across the organization. His unique background gives him a practical perspective on how technology, leadership, and organizational culture intersect to better serve communities.

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

358: Elisa Cox: The Leaders Who Don't Chase Titles Jul 14, 2026

Show notes

Elisa Cox: The Leaders Who Don't Chase TitlesHow Unexpected Opportunities Shape Exceptional Careers Episode 358 of The HaltingWinter Podcast Brought to you by Tyler Technologies

What if the career you're meant to have isn't the one you planned?

Elisa Cox never set out to become a city manager. In fact, for years she insisted she didn't want the job. But each time an unexpected opportunity appeared, she chose to step up, learn, and serve. Those decisions ultimately led her to become the City Manager of Rancho Cucamonga, California.

In this conversation, Elisa shares the lessons she learned from navigating roles she didn't feel ready for, the mentors who believed in her before she believed in herself, and why the greatest leaders aren't driven by titles—they're driven by impact.

Along the way, she also offers a compelling vision for why local government must do a better job telling its story and inspiring the next generation of public servants.

Whether you're an emerging leader wondering what's next, a department head preparing for greater responsibility, or a city manager investing in future leaders, this episode is a powerful reminder that exceptional careers are often built one unexpected opportunity at a time.

About Elisa CoxElisa Cox is the City Manager of Rancho Cucamonga, California. Throughout her career, she has served in parks and recreation, human resources, executive leadership, and city management, bringing a people-first approach to every role. Passionate about community, leadership development, and public service, she believes the greatest impact leaders can make is investing in the people who serve others.

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

357: Book of the Week: Shoe Dog Jul 13, 2026

Show notes

Show Notes: MLDC Book of the Week – Shoe DogEpisode 357 of The HaltingWinter Podcast

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This week on The HaltingWinter Podcast, Seth Winterhalter introduces Shoe Dog by Phil Knight, the Nike founder's candid memoir of building a global brand from a "crazy idea" with no money, no team, and no guarantee it would survive. Seth makes the case for why this unconventional leadership story belongs on every local government leader's reading list: not for the business lessons, but for Knight's raw honesty about uncertainty, conviction, and the real cost of building something meaningful.

The episode continues the MLDC's summer series, "Stories That Shape Leaders," where members are exploring five ideas drawn from the book — calling, team-building around belief, leading through chronic uncertainty, growth without margin, and the weight of public service — each translated specifically for the realities of local government leadership.

Join the MLDC

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

Resources Mentioned

Book: Shoe Dog by Phil Knight

Connect with Seth Winterhalter

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

356: Mike Van Milligen: The Four Principles of Lasting Leadership Jul 09, 2026

Show notes

Mike Van Milligen: The Four Principles of Lasting LeadershipLessons from 33 Years of Transforming One Community Episode 356 of The HaltingWinter Podcast Brought to you by Tyler Technologies

What does it take to lead a community through decades of meaningful transformation?

After 33 years as City Manager of Dubuque, Iowa, Mike Van Milligen has a remarkable answer.

During his tenure, Dubuque overcame economic decline, revitalized its downtown and riverfront, invested in neighborhoods, strengthened community partnerships, and became a five-time All-America City. None of it happened overnight. It happened through steady leadership, long-term vision, and a commitment to building trust one decision at a time.

In this conversation, Mike reflects on the lessons that shaped his career, the challenges of leading through change, and the four guiding principles that became the foundation of his leadership philosophy.

Mike's story is a powerful reminder that lasting leadership isn't measured by headlines or short-term wins. It's measured by the people you empower, the trust you build, and the community you leave better than you found it.

Whether you're a city manager, department director, elected official, or emerging leader, this episode offers practical wisdom for building organizations and communities that thrive for generations.

About Mike Van MilligenMike Van Milligen has served as the City Manager of Dubuque, Iowa, since 1993. Under his leadership, Dubuque has become nationally recognized for its strategic planning, community engagement, sustainability initiatives, neighborhood revitalization, and collaborative approach to local government. As he prepares to retire after 33 years of service, Mike shares the leadership principles and life lessons that have guided one of the most respected careers 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

355: Opal Mauldin-Jones: If You Stop Learning, You Stop Leading Jul 07, 2026

Show notes

Opal Mauldin-Jones: If You Stop Learning, You Stop LeadingHow Continuous Growth Leads to Lasting Impact Episode 355 of The HaltingWinter Podcast Brought to you by Tyler Technologies

What if the greatest investment you could make in your organization isn't a new strategic plan, technology, or initiative but your own growth as a leader?

In this episode of The HaltingWinter Podcast, Seth Winterhalter sits down with Opal Mauldin-Jones, City Manager of Lancaster, Texas, to explore a leadership journey defined by service, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to continuous learning.

From growing up on a farm in East Texas to becoming one of the nation's most respected city managers, Opal shares how a single college assignment, an extraordinary mentor, and a lifelong pursuit of personal growth shaped her approach to leadership. Along the way, she reflects on leading through economic uncertainty, natural disasters, rapid community growth, and the daily realities of serving a community with purpose and integrity.

This conversation is a powerful reminder that leadership isn't a destination; it's a continual process of learning, growing, and helping others thrive.

Whether you're an emerging supervisor, department director, city manager, or elected official, this conversation will encourage you to keep growing because the growth of your organization will never outpace the growth of its leaders.

About Opal Mauldin-JonesOpal Mauldin-Jones has served as City Manager of Lancaster, Texas, since 2011, after holding multiple leadership roles within the organization. Recognized nationally for her commitment to public service and leadership development, she is a past President of the Texas City Management Association and was the first Black woman to serve in that role during the association's 100-year celebration. A lifelong learner, she continues to invest in executive education and leadership development while mentoring the next generation of public servants.

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

354: Book of the Week: The Boys in the Boat Jul 06, 2026

Show notes

Show Notes: MLDC Book of the Week – The Boys in the BoatEpisode 354 of The HaltingWinter Podcast

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This episode continues the MLDC Summer Series, Stories That Shape Leaders, with a deep dive into The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown, the true story of the University of Washington's underdog crew team and their improbable run to gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Seth unpacks why this story resonates so strongly with local government leaders: working-class athletes with no institutional advantage, competing against far better-resourced programs, who win not by individual talent but by learning to trust each other completely.

Seth introduces the book's central wisdom figure, boat builder George Pocock, and the concept of "swing" — the rare moment when a team moves as one. The episode closes with a preview of the week ahead inside the MLDC, where members will spend five days unpacking the book's leadership lessons in depth.

Join the MLDC

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

Resources Mentioned

Book: The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown

Connect with Seth Winterhalter

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

353: Jeremy Scott: The Leaders Who Adapt Jul 02, 2026

Show notes

Jeremy Scott: The Leaders Who AdaptWhy Great Public Servants Rarely Follow a Straight Path Episode 353 of The HaltingWinter Podcast Brought to you by Tyler Technologies

Jeremy Scott's journey to becoming a county administrator was anything but conventional...and that's exactly what makes his leadership story so compelling.

In this episode of The HaltingWinter Podcast, Seth sits down with Jeremy Scott, County Administrator for Antrim County, Michigan, to explore how a career that included mathematics, communications, marketing, technology, church media, and IT prepared him to lead one of northern Michigan's most beautiful counties.

Together, they discuss why adaptability is one of the most important leadership traits in local government, how servant leadership shaped Jeremy's approach to public service, and why great organizations are built by investing in people, not just processes.

Jeremy also shares practical ideas for strengthening organizational culture, recognizing employees in meaningful ways, communicating more effectively with residents, and building cohesive teams that deliver better service to their communities.

Whether you're a city manager, county administrator, department director, or aspiring leader, this conversation is a reminder that leadership isn't about following the perfect career path; it's about continually learning, serving, and adapting.

About Jeremy ScottJeremy Scott serves as the County Administrator for Antrim County, Michigan. After an unconventional career spanning technology, communications, marketing, and media, he discovered a passion for public service and organizational leadership. Today, he is committed to building a culture of collaboration, transparency, and continuous improvement while helping local government better serve its communities.

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

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