Municipal Leaders: Develop Faster, Lead Stronger, Build Better
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Some leadership decisions only make sense years down the road.
Unfortunately, the criticism shows up immediately.
In Episode 273 of The HaltingWinter Podcast, I reconnect with Bret Prebula, City Manager of Suisun City, California, before replaying one of the most impactful conversations we’ve ever shared on the show.
When Bret first joined the podcast (Episode 182), we talked about risk, vision, and what it takes to lead a city beyond maintenance mode. Since then, those ideas have moved from theory to reality—bringing with them resistance, emotion, and national attention.
In our brief catch-up conversation, Bret reflects on what it’s like to lead transformational change when public meetings turn hostile, dialogue breaks down, and the pressure to slow down gets louder. He shares how he stays grounded in the why, keeps his team energized, and continues to make decisions for the next 30–40 years, even when the present feels uncomfortable.
After that update, we replay Episode 182 in full, because the leadership principles Bret shared then are exactly what this moment demands now.
If you’re carrying the weight of difficult decisions, facing resistance for doing the right thing, or wondering whether bold leadership is worth the cost—this episode is for you.
Listen to Episode 273: Bret Prebula — Leading Through Resistance
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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 organization.
Members receive weekly leadership content, access to our daily podcast, monthly virtual trainings, and a clear roadmap for building a culture that reduces burnout, strengthens retention, and drives meaningful impact in every department.
If you’re committed to leading well and shaping a healthier culture for your team, now is the time to save your seat for the 2026 cohort.
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.
