Municipal Leaders: Develop Faster, Lead Stronger, Build Better
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Episode 353 of The HaltingWinter Podcast
Brought to you by Tyler Technologies
Ask a room full of city managers and county administrators how they arrived in local government, and you’ll quickly discover there isn’t a single blueprint for ascending to the role.
Some studied public administration. Others came from engineering, planning, finance, public works—or entirely different careers.
Jeremy Scott’s story may be one of the most unconventional yet.
Before becoming County Administrator for Antrim County, Michigan, Jeremy’s career included mathematics, communications, marketing, technology, church media, Apple, and IT. None of it looked like a traditional path to public leadership. Yet every experience gave him another perspective, another skill, and another opportunity to learn how organizations—and people—work.
In Episode 353 of The HaltingWinter Podcast, Jeremy shares why adaptability has become one of the most valuable leadership skills in local government.
Our conversation explores what servant leadership really looks like, why communication is one of government’s greatest responsibilities, and how leaders can create stronger workplace cultures without simply throwing more money at the problem.
One of my favorite moments from the episode is Jeremy’s story about employee recognition. Faced with budget limitations and restrictions on purchasing awards, he refused to accept that appreciation wasn’t possible. Instead, he and his team created meaningful, handcrafted recognition awards that celebrate years of service and peer-nominated excellence. It’s a simple but powerful reminder that culture is built through intentional leadership, not expensive programs.
We also discuss the challenges of hiring the right leaders, breaking down departmental silos, improving collaboration, and why cohesive teams ultimately deliver better service to residents.
If you’ve ever wondered whether your unconventional career path somehow makes you less prepared to lead, Jeremy’s story offers a refreshing perspective.
Sometimes the leaders who make the greatest impact are the ones who never stopped learning, adapting, and serving wherever they were needed.
Listen to Episode 353: Jeremy Scott: The Leaders Who Adapt
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 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 shines a spotlight on the people behind our cities and counties. Through candid conversations with local government leaders from across the nation, host Seth Winterhalter explores the journeys, challenges, and ideas shaping stronger communities while inspiring the next generation of public servants.
