January 17, 2023

Courage Beyond Bravery

Watch this 2 minute video to learn how to be courageous in civic situations.

There’s a particular type of courage that’s absolutely essential for anyone in a position of community leadership or who is responsible for gathering consensus among a diverse group of people.  It's the courage to be open-minded - the willingness to say "Tell Me More" and be genuinely interested in what follows, even if you disagree with it.


In my FROM CONFLICT TO CONVERSATION presentation I challenge community leaders to bring that specific type of courage to their community interactions.

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.
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