June 19, 2024

A ‘slow burn’ path to leadership

A ‘slow burn’ path to leadership with Matt Lehrman.

In this week’s “Community Catalysts” podcast, I talk with first-term City Council Member Alisa Benson of Orono, Minnesota, about her “slow burn” journey from concerned mom to community activist and reluctant politician.


Listen on Apple, Spotify, and all podcast platforms.

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN

A ‘slow burn’ path to leadership with Matt Lehrman.

RECENT EPISODES:

Doug McLennan, Founder & Editor, ArtsJournal - Pt. 2

(June 11, 2024)

Doug McLennan, Founder & Editor, ArtsJournal- Pt. 1

(June 4, 2024)

Otis White, Civic Strategies- Pt. 2

(May 28, 2024)


ABOUT THE PODCAST: Mayors, council members, police chiefs, foundation CEOs and other local leaders share their hard-won lessons about making a difference in their community. More than a showcase for stories, “Community Catalysts” offers a durable demonstration that concepts like vision, courage, leadership, inclusivity, trust and collaboration are more than intangible values. The experiences shared convey specific knowledge and skills that deserve to be shared, honed and put into practice.


APPLY HERE to be a podcast guest.




What does the Constitution have to say about community values?


WATCH NOW on YouTube


Connect with Matt:


Milton Brown, School Board Member, Washington County, FL
By Matt Lehrman October 21, 2025
Some people carry a presence that immediately commands both respect and curiosity. Milton Brown is one of those people. Read more about his journey to public service
Who Are We Becoming? Reflections on Belonging—and Why It Matters
By Matt Lehrman October 15, 2025
Highlights from the September 2025 Local Leadership Chat
Pamme Jones, Executive and Artistic Director of the Ridgefield Theater Barn in Connecticut
By Matt Lehrman October 14, 2025
How Do You Lead with Inclusion, Respect, and Joy? Fifteen years ago, a conversation about light bulbs led to a radical reimagining of what an organization could be.
More Posts