Municipal Leaders: Develop Faster, Lead Stronger, Build Better
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Episode 367 of The HaltingWinter Podcast
Sponsored by Tyler Technologies
What if the best career isn’t the one you planned?
That’s the question at the heart of my latest conversation with Garrett Corbin, Town Manager of Carabassett Valley, Maine.
Like many young professionals interested in government, Garrett believed his future was in Washington, D.C. He studied political science and international relations, earned both a law degree and a master’s in public policy, worked in state government, practiced law, and spent more than a decade advocating for municipalities through the Maine Municipal Association.
By every measure, he was building an impressive career.
But somewhere along the way, Garrett realized that prestige wasn’t what he was looking for. Purpose was.
That realization ultimately led him to become the Town Manager of Carabassett Valley, a small mountain community that had been shaping his life since he was a teenager.
Our conversation explores far more than one person’s career journey. It’s about discovering where your talents, passions, and values intersect and having the courage to follow that path, even when it looks different than you originally imagined.
We also discuss why experience often teaches more than education, the importance of leading with integrity, and how local government creates some of the most visible and meaningful impact in our communities.
One of my favorite moments in the conversation comes when Garrett reflects on everything he’s learned throughout his career. While education gave him valuable tools, it was the experiences—the unexpected opportunities, difficult decisions, and real-world challenges—that ultimately prepared him for leadership.
For anyone beginning a career in public service, considering their next step, or wondering whether they’re truly where they belong, Garrett’s story offers an encouraging reminder: you don’t have to have every step figured out. Sometimes the right opportunity isn’t the one with the biggest title or the most prestige. It’s the one that allows you to make the greatest difference.
If you’ve ever wrestled with what meaningful work really looks like, I think you’ll enjoy this conversation.
Listen to Episode 367: Garrett Corbin: Chasing Purpose, Not Prestige
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.
