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 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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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...
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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...
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Rewind Episode 13 - Sara Costlow

Can public service be fun? In today’s episode, we sit down for a wonderful discussion with Sara Costlow, Assistant City Manager of Deer Park, Texas. Sara shares her journey in city management, overcoming personal...
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Episode 39 - Emily Crawford Returns!

We're thrilled to welcome back our first return guest, Emily Crawford, in this exciting episode of Leading Thriving Cities! Formerly the City Manager of Brownwood, Texas, Emily is now the City Manager in Abilene,...
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Episode 38 - Lindsey Wheeler

In this episode, we welcome Lindsey Wheeler, the City Administrator of La Vernia, TX. She shares valuable insights on the heart of city management in small towns. Lindsey discusses the joys of connecting with the...
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Rewind Episode 06 - David Morgan

What is the legacy of a city manager? David Morgan is the city manager of Georgetown, Texas, ranked as the fastest growing city in America. He dives into the legacy a city staff can leave for the future. He has real...
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Episode 37 - Michael T Paulhus

How can we be open and engaging to create better trust throughout our communities? In today’s episode, we’re excited to have Michael Paulhus, the Town Manager of Plainville, CT, sharing his thoughts on building...
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Episode 36 - Gina Nash

In this episode, we have an inspiring conversation with Gina Nash, the City Manager of Sachse, TX. She shares some wonderful insights on why vulnerability matters and the true benefit of tackling burnout. Gina...
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Rewind Episode 03 - Willie Richards

How do we deploy healthy vulnerability to lead the next generation in law enforcement? Today’s guest, Assistant Chief Willie Richards, from Round Rock Police Department, helps us understand the weight carried by every...
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