Municipal Leaders: Develop Faster, Lead Stronger, Build Better
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Episode 374 of The HaltingWinter Podcast
Sponsored by Tyler Technologies
Success in local government is often measured by bigger cities, larger budgets, and more prominent titles. But what if the greatest leadership opportunity isn’t the next step up the ladder? What if it’s the chance to make a lasting difference in the community that shaped you?
That question sits at the heart of my conversation with India Adams-Jacobs, Town Manager of Bowling Green, Virginia, on Episode 374 of The HaltingWinter Podcast.
India’s career has taken her across the country, from Virginia to Washington State, to Florida, and back home again. Along the way, she gained experience leading innovation initiatives, managing complex projects, modernizing government operations, and helping communities navigate everything from economic development to emergency response. Yet after serving in larger cities, she made a decision many leaders wouldn’t expect: she returned to lead her hometown.
Why?
Because impact mattered more than prestige.
Throughout our conversation, India reminds us that leadership isn’t defined by the size of the organization we serve. It’s defined by the difference we make for the people we serve.
One of my favorite moments came when she challenged a common assumption about local government leadership:
“Why does a small town not deserve a professional manager?”
It’s a powerful reminder that every community deserves thoughtful, visionary leadership whether it serves 1,000 residents or one million.
But this episode isn’t only about career choices. It’s also about sustaining yourself in a profession that never truly turns off.
City and county managers know the reality. Even on vacation, you’re likely to run into residents with questions about roads, grants, budgets, or the next council meeting. The work has a way of following you wherever you go.
That’s why India offers one of the most practical leadership lessons I’ve heard in a long time.
Instead of talking about work-life balance, she encourages leaders to plan their joy.
She intentionally schedules experiences that help her recharge, creates healthy boundaries, and recognizes that serving others well requires taking care of yourself first. It’s a simple idea, but one that could change the trajectory of a leadership career.
We also dive into topics that every local government leader is wrestling with today:
India’s story is a reminder that great leadership isn’t about chasing titles. It’s about serving people, developing others, embracing innovation, and staying healthy enough to keep showing up year after year.
If you’re a city manager, department director, emerging leader, or anyone committed to strengthening local government, I think you’ll walk away encouraged and perhaps inspired to start planning your own joy.
Listen to Episode 374 of The HaltingWinter Podcast with India Adams-Jacobs: “Planning Your Joy”
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.
