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In our latest episode of The HaltingWinter Podcast, we explore how personal legacy shapes professional purpose through the remarkable journey of Phil Kiraly, Village Manager of Glencoe, Illinois. From his parents’ dramatic escape from Hungary as refugees in 1956 to his innovative leadership in modern municipal government, Phil’s story exemplifies how deep purpose drives meaningful public service.
Phil’s journey begins with his father’s 54-year career as a city employee and Park District Superintendent. This foundation of gratitude and service shaped Phil’s perspective on local government’s vital role in community life. “Local government is the layer of government that matters the most,” Phil reflects. “Not because we’re full of ourselves, but because we actually matter the most to what you’re able to do when you get up in the morning and when you go to bed at night.”
The conversation reveals how purposeful leadership transforms communities through thoughtful change. In Glencoe, Phil has masterfully balanced innovation with tradition, coining the philosophy “progress requires thoughtful change” – a nuanced evolution of the community’s unofficial motto “progress without change.” This approach has led to successful initiatives like their uniquely integrated public safety department, where officers serve triple duty as police, firefighters, and EMTs.
Beyond professional insights, Phil shares his personal journey of resilience, including managing Type 1 diabetes while leading a municipality. His commitment to community extends beyond his official duties through significant fundraising efforts for Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF), demonstrating how personal challenges can inform and enhance public service.
What makes this episode particularly valuable for municipal leaders is Phil’s practical wisdom on:
Whether you’re a seasoned city manager or an aspiring municipal leader, this conversation offers both inspiration and practical strategies for finding and maintaining purpose in public service.
Listen to the full episode to hear Phil’s insights on transforming municipal government through purposeful leadership. Available now on all platforms. Subscribe and leave a rating and review to help other municipal leaders discover these inspiring stories.
Want to learn more about strengthening your municipal leadership? Join the Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC) at www.haltingwinter.com/MLDC.
Seth Winterhalter is President of HaltingWinter Municipal Solutions, dedicated to making stronger cities through stronger leaders. Through executive coaching, results-based consulting, and the Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC), HaltingWinter helps city managers and municipal leaders transform their leadership impact and their organizational culture.
