Leading Thriving Cities

Leading Thriving Cities

Hosted by: Chad Wright | Forward Partners

Leading Thriving Cities is a Forward Partners Production designed to shine a spotlight on leadership in public service. We have deep conversations about sustainability and how we create a thriving future for our...

All Episodes

Episodes

Episode 51 - Amanda Mack

Today, we have the wonderful Amanda Mack, the City Administrator of Harrisburg, South Dakota. Amanda shares her thoughts on the importance of authenticity in public service and on navigating negativity on social...
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Episode 50 - Aly Van Dyke

In this episode of Leading Thriving Cities, we are joined by the incredibly awesome Aly Van Dyke, Director of Communications and Public Engagement for Georgetown, TX. Discover how storytelling and personal connections...
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Rewind Episode 8 - Allen Banks

Today, Chief Allen Banks of the Round Rock Police Department joins us. We talk about how important it is for police officers to see their work as more than just a job. Chief Banks explains that it's essential for...
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Episode 49 - Chris Whittaker

In this episode, we welcome Chris Whittaker, the City Manager of Magnolia, TX. Chris shares his unique journey from military service to city management, highlighting how his experiences have shaped his approach to...
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Episode 48 - Alan Guard

"People come first for a reason!" — Alan Guard Today we are joined by Alan Guard, Deputy City Manager of Brownsville, Texas. Alan shares his journey through city management, emphasizing the importance of showing...
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Episode 47 - Austin Bleess

We are excited to welcome Austin Bleess, the City Manager of Jersey Village, TX. In this episode, Chad and Austin discuss their recent sabbaticals and how to prepare yourself and your team for success. They also...
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Episode 46 - Micah Grau

Today's guest is Micah Grau, the City Manager of Buda, TX! He shares his love for Buda and thoughtful insights on how cities can grow intentionally. Micah emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships and...
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Episode 45 - Brent Parker

In today’s episode we sit down with Brent Parker, the city manager of Wylie, TX. He shares his personal journey navigating mental health within emergency services and public service. Brent discusses the power of...
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Rewind Episode 17 - Becca Miears

How can we be more intentional about building relationships across our organizations? Today we have a conversation with Becca Miears, the HR Director from New Braunfels, TX. Becca discusses the importance of caring...
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Episode 44 - Brad Stafford

Today, we’re excited to have Brad Stafford with us! Brad is the Director of Parks, Recreation, and Facilities for the city of Bryan, TX. He shares the heartfelt passion that drives public servants to make their...
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Episode 43 - Jack Thompson

Join us in this episode as Jack Thompson, City Manager of La Grange, TX, shares his fascinating journey from aspiring zoo keeper to public service. He shares the importance of intentional growth, the value of...
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Episode 42 - Phil Kiraly

In this episode, we speak with Phil Kiraly, Village Manager of the Village of Glencoe, IL, about his insights on why building trust and a positive culture is so important, both internally and with the public. Phil...
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