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What happens when a high-achieving municipal leader hits the wall of complete exhaustion? For Charlie Bush, City Administrator of Sedro-Woolley, this crisis became a catalyst for transforming not just his health, but his entire approach to leadership.

In this week’s powerful episode of The HaltingWinter Podcast, Charlie shares his remarkable journey from a driven young intern handling citizen complaints in Glendale, Arizona, to a seasoned leader who’s discovered the delicate balance between impactful service and personal well-being.

Key Insights You’ll Discover:

  • Why handling complaints and “grunt work” early in his career proved invaluable for understanding municipal service
  • How a health crisis forced him to reimagine his relationship with leadership and wellness
  • The power of “rocks in the river” – creating unmovable space for personal renewal
  • Why sometimes taking a “step back” in your career can actually propel you forward
  • The critical importance of mentorship in developing the next generation of municipal leaders

A Journey of Transformation

Charlie’s story isn’t just about career progression – it’s about discovering what sustainable leadership really means. From his early days being mentored by Dr. Martin Vanacour (who told him simply to “do good”) to his current role mentoring others, Charlie demonstrates how municipal leadership is about more than just managing services – it’s about building lasting impact through people.

Beyond Traditional Leadership

Perhaps most compelling is Charlie’s candid discussion about his health crisis and recovery. Through meditation, hiking, and intentional lifestyle changes, he didn’t just recover – he discovered a more effective way to lead. His insights about maintaining centeredness during heated council meetings and finding peace amidst chaos offer practical wisdom for any leader facing similar challenges.

Why This Matters

As municipal leaders face increasing pressure and complexity, the old model of “push through at all costs” is proving unsustainable. Charlie’s journey offers a different path – one where personal well-being and professional impact aren’t at odds, but are actually essential partners in long-term success.

Listen now to discover how you can transform your approach to leadership while building a more sustainable and impactful career in municipal service.

Listen to the full episode

Transform Your Leadership in 2025

Ready to develop a more sustainable approach to municipal leadership? The Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC), launching January 2025, provides daily insights and proven strategies through bite-sized content designed for busy city managers. Don’t let burnout derail your impact.

Learn More About MLDC – Early enrollment is now open but early bonuses are limited. Save your seat!

Seth Winterhalter is President of HaltingWinter Municipal Solutions, dedicated to making stronger cities through stronger leaders. Through executive coaching, consulting, and the Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC), HaltingWinter helps city managers and municipal leaders transform their leadership impact and their organizational culture.