From Imposter Syndrome to Impact: The Realities of City Management

Episode 235 of The HaltingWinter Podcast
Brought to you by Tyler Technologies and Zencity

Most city managers will tell you they never planned on ending up in their role. For Kiel Mangus, City Manager of Derby, Kansas, that couldn’t be more true. His career began with what was supposed to be a short internship in economic development. On his first day, the director went on maternity leave. Suddenly, Kiel was fielding calls, learning on the fly, and realizing just how much local government shapes everyday life.

That crash course sparked a career path that would take him through small-town public works, explosive growth in Colorado, and a devastating flood that revealed the true role of public works as emergency responders. Along the way, he discovered what many leaders quietly wrestle with, imposter syndrome, and how to move beyond it to lead with confidence and impact.

In this episode of The HaltingWinter Podcast, Kiel and I unpack:

• What floods, wastewater plants, and rapid housing growth teach you about crisis and resilience.
• Why managing people, not projects, is the hardest and most important part of leadership.
• How COVID reshaped expectations for work, balance, and culture in city government.
• Why local government must do a better job of celebrating wins and telling its own story.

For anyone serving in city hall, or considering a path into leadership, this conversation is a raw, practical reminder: you’ll never know everything before you lead. The key is stepping in, saying yes, and growing through the uncertainty.

Listen now HERE or on your podcast platform of choice

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Our Sponsor — Tyler Technologies

We’re also proud to be sponsored by Tyler Technologies, a leader in empowering the public sector with software solutions that connect data, streamline operations, and improve service delivery. From civic services to public safety, Tyler helps local governments build stronger, more resilient communities. Learn more at tylertech.com →

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Our Sponsor — Zencity

This episode is brought to you by Zencity, the community engagement platform that helps public sector leaders hear from all residents—not just the “same ten people.” Their AI-powered tools make it easier to understand what your community really needs and to act on it with confidence. Schedule a demo at zencity.io →

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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.