Municipal Leaders: Develop Faster, Lead Stronger, Build Better

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Episode 337 of The HaltingWinter Podcast
Brought to you by Tyler Technologies

What if City Hall became more than a place people reluctantly visit to pay a bill or attend a contentious meeting?

What if it became a place where community was actually built?

In Episode 337 of The HaltingWinter Podcast, Seth sits down with Mike Winder, City Manager in Millcreek, Utah, to explore how local government can help rebuild belonging, trust, and connection in an increasingly disconnected world.

Mike shares his fascinating journey from growing up in a fifth-generation dairy family to serving as a mayor, state legislator, entrepreneur, and now city manager of one of Utah’s newest cities.

But this conversation goes far beyond career paths.

Together, Seth and Mike discuss:

  • Why local government is still the level of government where meaningful change actually happens
  • The growing importance of storytelling and communication in local leadership
  • How cities can intentionally create spaces that foster connection and civic pride
  • Why Millcreek built a City Hall people genuinely want to visit
  • The role local government plays in fighting loneliness, disconnection, and institutional distrust

From public markets and community gathering spaces to newsletters, photo contests, and student recognition programs, Mike offers practical examples of how local leaders can strengthen community without losing sight of operational excellence.

This episode is ultimately a reminder that local government is about far more than roads, budgets, and regulations.

It’s about people.

It’s about place.

And it’s about the work that builds belonging.

Listen to Episode 337 with Mike Winder: The City Hall People Actually Want to Visit

Tyler Technologies

This episode is sponsored by Tyler Technologies, the leader in empowering the public sector with software solutions that connect data, streamline operations, and improve service delivery. From AI to budgeting solutions, Tyler helps local governments build stronger, more resilient communities. 
Learn more at tylertech.com/winter →

The Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC)

The MLDC is where local government leaders go to grow, together. It’s the fastest-growing leadership development community designed specifically for the public sector, now paired with a comprehensive 9-month Leadership & Culture Program for those ready to elevate their leadership and their organization.
Learn more at haltingwinter.com/mldc →

The HaltingWinter Podcast celebrates and elevates the people who power local government. Through in-depth conversations with leaders from cities, counties, and communities of all sizes, host Seth Winterhalter explores the journeys, challenges, and innovations happening in municipal leadership across America.