People Before Performance: The Culture Shift That Changed a City

Episode 232 of The HaltingWinter Podcast
Brought to you by Zencity and Tyler Technologies

What happens when a leader trades the efficiency-driven pace of private law for the people-centered, transparency-driven reality of local government?

That’s the journey of Regan Bolli. In this episode of The HaltingWinter Podcast, Regan shares how a difficult transition from “bottom-line first” to “people first” became the defining shift of his career and the culture of an entire city.

Early in his municipal leadership journey, Regan wrestled with what felt like wasted time and inefficient processes. But he soon realized the truth: transparency isn’t inefficiency—it’s democracy. Bringing people along, not just getting things done, is what builds trust and lasting progress.

From that realization came a framework: People → Purpose → Performance. Put people first, and everything else follows. Put performance first, and the foundation crumbles.

In this conversation, Regan shares:

• Why leaders must choose transparency over efficiency, even when it feels slower.
• How culture is sustained by integrity, trust, and belonging, not projects or policies.
• Why the myth of work-life separation is dangerous—and what it takes to create an environment where people thrive at home and at work.
• How a bold “people before performance” mindset reshaped not just his team, but the city they serve.

For leaders battling burnout, turnover, or political volatility, this episode is a clear reminder: performance isn’t the foundation—people are.

Listen Here

This episode of The HaltingWinter Podcast is made possible by our sponsors, Zencity and Tyler Technologies, who help local governments across the country better serve their communities.

Zencity
Local government leaders don’t have the luxury of guessing what residents think. Zencity helps you cut through the noise and hear directly from your community—not just the “same ten people.” By gathering real-time feedback across every neighborhood and demographic, Zencity gives you the insight to make decisions with clarity, confidence, and legitimacy. It’s about turning community voice into community trust.

Discover how Zencity helps leaders listen at www.zencity.io.

Tyler Technologies
Behind every thriving community is a city that runs well. Tyler Technologies is the nation’s leading software partner dedicated solely to the public sector. From financial systems and permitting to utility billing and citizen engagement, Tyler’s solutions help cities and counties operate with efficiency, transparency, and accountability. Their mission is simple: empower public servants to build stronger, smarter, more connected communities.

Learn how Tyler supports local governments at www.tylertech.com

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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.