July 2, 2024

This week on the podcast: Civility Starts Here

Civility starts here - a conversation between community leaders on the Community Catalyst Podcast.

Dr. Linda Olson

Former Director/Teaching Professor, University of Denver Leadership Studies Department


In this week's episode of the "Community Catalysts" podcast, I'm excited to compare perspectives with Dr. Linda Olson, former professor and director of the Leadership Studies Department at the University of Denver. Dr. Olson served as a City Council Member and Mayor of Englewood, Colorado, from 2009 to 2021, and she spent a recent sabbatical researching civility programs nationwide.  Her findings support the Colorado Municipal League's just-launched Civility Starts Here initiative.


Listen on Apple, Spotify, and all podcast platforms.

LISTEN HERE

Civility Starts Here on Community Catalyst Podcast.



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.




Civility Starts Here with Social Prosperity Partners on the podcast.

SPECIAL DATE FOR JULY:  Wednesday, July 10, 2024


THIS MONTH’S TOPIC:  Where Does It Hurt? Incivility is causing rising stress in many communities, with varying causes and intensity. Following up on our recent FLASH SURVEY, let’s share perspectives on how different communities experience the "pain points" of incivility.

 

You're invited to connect with community leaders nationally in a monthly forum hosted by Matt Lehrman of Social Prosperity Partners. This lightly moderated group discussion is a chance for municipal officials, school board members, nonprofit directors, and other community leaders to consider shared challenges and opportunities in a supportive, inclusive space. There is no formal presentation. Attendance is limited, so please register early.


Starting this month, there's a $6 charge to attend, providing an added incentive for those who register to show up. Thank you for your understanding and support!


Connect with Matt:


Ilryong MoonAt-Large Member

Fairfax County School Board
By Matt Lehrman April 23, 2025
Ilryong Moon came to the United States from Korea at 17. He didn’t speak much English. His family had little money. His parents, both undereducated, worked long hours to support their children in a new and unfamiliar country. Ilryong repeated a year of high school just to learn the language. From there, he went on to graduate from Harvard, build a successful law career, and eventually serve for decades on the school board of one of the nation’s largest—and most diverse—school districts.
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.
More Posts