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:


6 Practical Tips for Building Stronger Communities by Matt Lehrman of Social Prosperity Partners

6 Practical Tips for Building Stronger Communities

By Matt Lehrman • February 21, 2025
I had the pleasure of hosting our latest Local Leadership Chat, where local leaders from across the country gathered on Zoom to discuss the challenges and opportunities of civic communication in a rapidly evolving media environment. The conversation was lively, insightful, and filled with practical advice for navigating the complexities of public engagement.
Mayor Ginny Dickey, Fountain Hills, AZ on Community Catalysts

Mayor Ginny Dickey, Fountain Hills, AZ

By Matt Lehrman • February 19, 2025
Former Mayor Ginny Dickey of Fountain Hills, Arizona, gives an unflinching account of how local politics took a dark turn. Having lost her 2024 reelection bid, Mayor Dickey reflects on the rise of vicious, unprincipled attacks—tactics that had nothing to do with policy or leadership and everything to do with fueling anger and spreading division.
Mayor Brian Vincent of Farmville, VA is on the Community Catalysts Podcast.

Mayor Brian Vincent of Farmville, VA

By Matt Lehrman • February 12, 2025
It’s common to hear a mayor speak about high ideals or how their town bridges its history with its future. But Mayor Vincent is anything but common. When he talks about “decency, fortitude, and community” in Farmville, you quickly discover the profound influence of his father, a fallen U.S. Army officer. His father’s service and sacrifice embody the power of leading not with force, but with quiet strength and unwavering dedication to others—a painful yet timeless lesson in leadership from which we can all learn.
More Posts
Share by: