September 18, 2024

Mayor Gary Petersen and The Positive Politics of Preparedness


Otis White on your Day 1 priorities  on the Community Catalyst Podcast.
Mayor Gary Petersen of Nevada City, California.

Mayor Gary Petersen

Nevada City, California

“The Positive Politics of Preparedness”


I’m excited to share the latest episode of Community Catalysts, featuring my conversation with Mayor Gary Petersen of Nevada City, California.


Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Nevada City is a historic town balancing its rich past with the modern-day risks of wildfire threats. Mayor Petersen shares how his community is not only preparing for these challenges but thriving with a vibrant, arts-centered economy.


In this episode, Mayor Petersen shares insights into leadership grounded in Western traditions of community service. He shares how Nevada City’s commitment to resilience and preparedness is about more than just survival—it’s a philosophy for building stronger communities. His neighbor-to-neighbor initiative is a powerful example of how local leadership, trust, and collaboration can strengthen a town’s social fabric in the face of natural disasters.


What an instructive & inspiring story!




Listen on Apple, Spotify, and all podcast platforms.


To share a story from your own leadership journey, APPLY HERE to become a guest.

LISTEN HERE


ABOUT THE PODCAST:  Local leaders everywhere are innovating ways to engage their communities, foster collaboration, and achieve significant goals. “Community Catalysts” brings you the inside story of mayors, council members, city managers, nonprofit CEOs, and other changemakers from a variety of backgrounds. Produced by Social Prosperity Partners and hosted by Matt Lehrman, the podcast offers a weekly dose of inspiration and practical advice for leaders committed to inclusive decision-making and excellence in governance.


Connect with Matt:


Insights from the April Local Leadership Chat with Matt Lehrman
By Matt Lehrman April 16, 2025
Last week, local leaders from across the country came together for a 90-minute virtual conversation about the words we use, the values we hold, and the challenges we face. Mayors, council members, and civic officials shared candid insights—not just about policy, but about how everyday language now feels risky, and how they stay grounded in community service. Here’s what they shared.
Chuck Frye, Jr.  Fredericksburg, Virginia on Community Catalysts
By Matt Lehrman April 9, 2025
Empathy isn’t just a personal trait—it can be a process. When communities create space for difficult conversations, real change is possible.
Kris Amundson, Former Virginia State Legislator and Former Fairfax County School Board Member & Chai
By Matt Lehrman March 26, 2025
We often think of leadership as taking charge, making decisions, and standing firm. But Kris Amundson—former Virginia State Legislator and former Fairfax County School Board Member and Chair—reminds us of something essential: leadership is about listening, adapting, and adding voices to the conversation.
More Posts