All Episodes
Episodes
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...
View Episode
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...
View Episode
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...
View Episode
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...
View Episode
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...
View Episode
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...
View Episode
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...
View Episode
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...
View Episode
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...
View Episode
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...
View Episode
Episode 41 - 2025 TCMA Conference Live: Part 2
Welcome to part two of our first Leading Thriving Cities Live! This episode continues after part one (Episode 40), which was also captured live at the 2025 TCMA Conference. Join us as we dive into various breaking...
View Episode
Episode 40 - 2025 TCMA Conference Live: Part 1
We are thrilled to share the premiere of our very first Leading Thriving Cities Live! This live recording has been split into two episodes. This special episode was recorded in front of a live audience at the 2025...
View Episode