Leadership From The Arena

Strategic Government Resources, TX | HomeInna Sovsun is a Ukrainian professor and politician. She served as Ukraine's deputy Minister of Education and Science of Ukraine from 2014 to 2016. She served as vice-president of the Kyiv School of Economics from 2016 to 2018. She has also been a full professor of the department of political science National University "Kyiv-Mohyla Academy", as well as co-founder and former director of the think tank CEDOS. She is a Ukrainian MP, member of the Committee on Energy, Housing and Utilities Services of the Verkhovna Rada since May 2020 and Chair of the Lifelong Learning and Extracurricular Education Subcommittee.

Strategic Government Resources, TX | HomeGreg Burris is the former city manager of Springfield Missouri and CEO and president of United Way of the Ozarks, as well as the co-founder of the Give 5 Civic Matchmaking Program. Cora Scott is also a co-founder of the Give 5 Civic Matchmaking Program as well as director of public information and Civic engagement at the City of Springfield Missouri. About - Give 5 Program

Strategic Government Resources, TX | HomeStephen Cowper is the former governor of Alaska with an excellent pedigree and history of outstanding service to both his state and country. Enjoy!

Strategic Government Resources, TX | HomeMick McKamie practices trial law and has represented governmental entities across several different cities. He speaks with me today about his career, leadership in the courts, and both his struggles and resilience as a caregiver. 

Joan Trumpauer Mulholland, a recipient of the 2015 National Civil Rights Musuem Freedom Award, is a civil rights icon who particpated in over 50 sit-ins and demonstrations by the time she was 23 years old. She was a Freedom Rider, a participant in the Jackson Woolworth's sit-in, the March on Washington, the Meredith March, and the Selma to Montgomery March. For her actions she was disowned by her family, attacked, shot at, cursed at, and hunted down by the Klan for execution. Her path has crossed civil rights movement icons such as Martin Luther King Jr., Medger Evers, Fannie Lou Hamer, John Lewis, Diane Nash, and Julian Bond. She has appeared in numerous books and documentaries and has reieved numerous awards and recognition for her work in the civil rights movement including the 2019 International Civil Rights Museum Trailblazer Award and the Anti-Defamation League Annual Heroes Against Hate Award. 

Strategic Government Resources, TX | HomeLynn Richardson is a Chief Public Defender at Dallas County with a wealth of wisdom and experience working with underprivileged and indigent clients. She is devoted to justice and excellent public service.  Enjoy. 

Strategic Government Resources, TX | HomeFormer Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis, callsign Chaos, served as a U.S. Marine Corps General, the head of the United States Central Command, and NATO's Allied Transformation Commander. We were honored to speak with him in his childhood town of Richland Washington.Call Sign Chaos: Learning to Lead | Hoover Institution

Strategic Government Resources, TX | HomeFormer Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis, callsign Chaos, served as a U.S. Marine Corps General, the head of the United States Central Command, and NATO's Allied Transformation Commander. We were honored to speak with him in his childhood town of Richland Washington.Call Sign Chaos: Learning to Lead | Hoover Institution

Michael K Sahota, CEC, is a Thought Leader, Author, Trainer and Speaker in the Agile Industry. Michael is the founder and CEO of SHIFT314 Inc: a next-generation conscious training & consulting firm that specializes in Culture, Organizational Evolution and Evolutionary Leadership.

Henry Hayes serves as the Chief Administrative Officer for the Town of Sudbury Massachusetts. He is an experienced Veteran (Chief Master Sergeant, senior leader within the U. S. Air Force) with a demonstrated history of excellence working in executive leadership responsibilities, community-level management, Human Resources, professional development and aircraft maintenance responsibilities. Some of these roles took him to the Pentagon and various locations across the Nation and world. He is an excellent leader, who utilizes his military service and personal wisdom to better the lives of those entrusted to his leadership. 

Dr. Mark Watson is the City Manager of Oak Ridge Tennessee. He received his doctoral degree in philosophy from the University of Tennessee. He joins me today to talk about his philosophy of governance, leadership, and his recent presentation on public administration in a post pandemic world. 

Stuart McRae is a proven leader with exceptional organization, interpersonal, and communication skills that help in building strong coalitions among diverse organizations.  He has served  as the City Administrator of Sheridan Wyoming since June 2020.  He retired from the U.S. Army in 2017 after 30 years of service in Europe, Asia, and across the United States.   His Army career included extensive experience in Intelligence, Logistics, Aviation, and installation (city) management. Stuart served three years as Garrison Commander (equivalent of City Administrator) for Fort Rucker, Alabama, and another two years as the Deputy Regional Director supervising 13 Army garrisons (cities) across the Pacific. 

Dr. Kaliym Islam is a pioneer in the application of business and technology trends to learning programs has the unique ability to identify the connections between business trends, technology and learning, and to facilitate the organizational change required to implement the required solutions. Teams under Dr. Islam's direction have been named learning elite by Chief Learning Officer Magazine, won International STC awards for innovative learning content, been cited by Josh Bersin as a best practice learning organization.Dr. Islam is the author of three books – Agile Methodology For Developing and Measuring Learning, Developing and Measuring Training the Six Sigma Way and Podcasting 101 for Trainers, a contributing author to: The Field Guide to the 6Ds: How to Use the Six Disciplines to Transform Learning into Business Results, The Encyclopedia of Human Resource Management, Prussience in Six Sigma DUNDU, and The German e-Learning Handbook, and a featured blogger for Training Industry Inc. Dr. Islam can be reached at kaliym@thetrainingpro.net or you can follow him on twitter @thetrainingpro.https://www.drkaliymaislam.com/https://www.amazon.com/12-Inch-Rule-Leadership-Strategies/dp/1736916009/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=kaliym+islam&qid=1631540543&sr=8-3

Joan Trumpauer Mulholland, a recipient of the 2015 National Civil Rights Museum Freedom Award, is a Civil Rights Icon who participated in over 50 sit-ins and demonstrations by the time she was 23 years old. She was a Freedom Rider, a participant in the Jackson Woolworth's Sit-in, the March on Washington, the Meredith March and the Selma to Montgomery March. For her actions she was disowned by her family, attacked, shot at, cursed at, put on death row and hunted down by the Klan for execution. Her path has crossed with some of the biggest names in the Civil Rights Movement: Martin Luther King, Medgar Evers, Fannie Lou Hamer, John Lewis, Diane Nash and Julian Bond. She has appeared in numerous books and documentaries and has received numerous awards and recognition for her work in the Civil Rights Movement including the 2019 International Civil Rights Museum Trailblazer Award, the 2018 “I Am a Man” Award, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated Annual Award of Honor and the Anti-Defamation League Annual Heroes Against Hate Award.https://www.amazon.com/Ordinary-Hero-Luvaughn-Brown/dp/B06Y4F88XQ/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=joan+mulholland&qid=1630412568&sr=8-3

Wendy Ryan (she/her/hers), MHROD, is the CEO of Kadabra, an interdisciplinary team of leadership and organizational change experts based in Silicon Valley, California. With over 25 years of combined experience in human resources, organizational development, non-profit leadership and executive coaching Wendy has partnered with hundreds of individuals and organizations throughout the U.S. helping front-line through C-suite leaders and board members achieve success as individuals and in teams.https://www.learnleadlift.com/https://www.wearekadabra.com/https://www.amazon.com/Learn-Lead-Lift-Inspire-Greatness/dp/1735258563/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1JK5NFR0UPT8B&dchild=1&keywords=learn+lead+lift+wendy+ryan&qid=1629754402&sprefix=learn+lead+lift%2Caps%2C201&sr=8-1

I am joined today by Heather Benoit!Heather is an innovation and foresight expert who is passionate about strategically creating better futures and finding solutions to the world's most complex challenges. She joined SGR in 2021 from M3 Design, an independent design firm specializing in the commercialization of cutting-edge technology and unique products. As the Futures & Insights Lead at M3, she led futures research in technological development, social and political trends, and environmental sustainability. She used this research to assess business model opportunities and inform product architecture and design.

Juli Geske-Peer is the owner and operator of Peer Solutions where she serves as a trainer, coach, and consultant. She specializes in mediation, conflict resolution, coaching, workplace training, and she offers a variety of workshops and presentations. She joins me today to talk about her new book, "5 Senses for Success: How to Thrive in Any Arena." https://juligeskepeer.com/

I am joined to day by David Maack! He has served as the Racine County Emergency Management Coordinator since April 1990. Since then, he has built a nationally recognized program and in 2012, was honored at the White House as a Champion of Change. David is a 1988 graduate of Carthage College with majors in Public Administration, Business Management and Political Science. He has received a Certificate in Public Administration from UW-Milwaukee and holds certifications in Emergency Management through the International Association of Emergency Managers and the Wisconsin Division of Emergency Management. In 2006, he graduated from UW Madison's Certified Public Management program.

In this special episode we flip the script and let veteran leader Mike Mowery learn as much as he can from up and coming millennial leader Toney Thompson. Dr. Mike Mowery, SGR's President of Leadership Development, has been with SGR since 2011.  Mike is experienced in leading City Council retreats, facilitating Community Engagement Meetings, and leading Management Team Workshops. He has led over 500 Leadership Workshops for local governments. He is the creator of SGR's Next Generation Leader training program and has helped develop and redefine SGR's Strategic Visioning Process used in city council retreats. He has a passion for seeing organizations thrive through the principles of Servant Leadership.Toney Thompson currently works as a budget analyst for the City of Durham, North Carolina and is Co-Host of ELGL's GovLove Podcast. In his role, Toney strives to create better outcomes for citizens through public administration and policy. In addition to being a budget analyst, Toney works on several city-wide projects that help incorporate innovation and equity into city policy and practices. Prior to his current role as a budget analyst, Toney served as the ICMA Fellow for Durham City and County. Toney is originally from Columbia, South Carolina and graduated with a BA in public policy from Duke University and a Master's of Public Administration from The School of Government at UNC Chapel Hill.

Richard (Rick) L. Davis has spent 25 years in local government administration and is the current City Manager of Baytown Texas, the third largest city in Harris County.  An International City and County Management Association (ICMA) Credentialed Manager, Rick received his Masters of Public Administration and Bachelors of Government Relations degrees from Brigham Young University.  Mr. Davis has served over the years on various local, national, and international boards and is the former President of the Utah City Management Association.  In addition to Texas, Rick has managed communities in Utah and Arizona.  Mr. Davis is the co-author of “Elevating Trust in Local Government” and “Marketing Your Community for Economic Development.”  

Sam Stecher is an educator, author, and entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience. He has provided instruction, training, and leadership at every level from elementary school to university institutions. Through MissionMonday.com, as well as the opportunity to speak at conferences, schools, and businesses, Sam has been able to make a significant and difference across several states. joins me today to talk about his leadership and education philosophy as well as his mission in life! http://www.missionmonday.com/

While gaining his Ph.D in e-Research & Technology Enhanced Learning from the world-ranked Lancaster University in the U.K., Dr. Graham developed the award-winning , research-based theoretical lens that has become known as Techno-Resiliency. Dr. Graham joins me today to talk about his knew book, "Mandate to be Great: The 5 Traits of Techno-Resilient People and organizations." 

Zina and Patrick's new book, Leading with Love and Laughter Letting Go and Getting Real at Work was released in May 2021.Dr. Zina Sutch leads the Office of Diversity and Inclusion and Civil Rights at the Small Business Administration. Prior to her current role she held senior positions at the Office of Personnel Management and the United States Department of Agriculture. She has a doctoral degree from the University of Maryland and a master's degree from George Washington University.Dr. Patrick Malone is the Director, Key Executive Leadership Programs at American University.  He is a retired Navy Captain, having served 23 years in a number of leadership and policy roles.https://sutchmalone.com/

Pete Havel talks to me about about his new book "The Arsonist in the Office: Fireproofing Your Life Against Toxic Coworkers, Employees, Bosses, and Cultures. " This is an excellent discussion of  toxicity in people and organizations and how we can engage with these arsonists in healthy ways. https://www.amazon.com/Arsonist-Office-Fireproofing-Coworkers-Employees-ebook/dp/B07NVY7C21https://petehavel.com/

Melissa Douaire speaks with me about burnout and bereavement in today's workplace. Melissa Douaire's years of experience gave her a message and we all need to hear. 

Sarah Elkins discusses her new book, "Your Stories Don't Define You, How You Tell Them Will." She brings light and insight to the role of stories in how we interact with others, understand ourselves, and ultimately experience work and life itself!

Just a heads up, the topic of suicide is briefly discussed in this episode from about 8:50 -9:25. Kevin Strauss shares his insights into team dynamics and the ability to give and receive love in the workplace!

Ernie Stevens has spent 28 years in  law enforcement, he has served in various roles throughout including the DWI task force, Tactical Response Unit (TRU), Street Crimes Assistance Team (SCAT), Field Training Officer. He talks to me today about his development of the San Antonio Police Department Mental Health Unit in 2008.Ernie Stevens is the primary subject in the two time Emmy nominated award winning HBO documentary, Ernie and Joe: Crisis Cops. Emmy winner for best editing. He has been featured on ABC's Nightline with Byron Pitts and NBC documentary, A Different Kind of Force. Also he has is a contributing author to the Amazon best-selling Mental Health category book, Police Mental Barricade. For inquiries, please e-mail: sapdernest@gmail.comFollow me: Twitter: @Estevens0845

Renee Smith's mission is, "To eradicate fear from the workplace and replace it with love." If you think this is an excellent mission, this podcast is for you and if you think this mission is a cheesy waste of time, this podcast is DEFINITELY for you!

Judge David Newell gives brings the right mix of humor and insight to his work on the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals!

Darlene Mays shares her experience, wisdom, and contagious joy with us in this episode! Her positivity and determination make her a wonderful force to be reckoned with!

Ed Everett brings the depth and insight we are all craving in the local government world. His ICMA articles on Leadership are the product of a life spent leading!

Several years ago Irving initiated a program called "Shop Talk."   The program was the idea of Officer Plunkett and the development/launch was shepherded by Chief Spivey (he was Assistant Chief at the time of its creation).  The purpose of the program was to develop a relationship between the police department and the African-American community--especially the younger community. Recognizing the issue, Officer Plunkett came up with the idea to partner with barbershops in the African-American community who could serve as a liaison, and to facilitate conversations that might break down barriers.  They've had this program up and running for a little over 5 years now and it is being replicated across the country.

Michael Abels joins me to talk about the power of trust in institutions, and what it's loss could mean for organizations and society. It's a good one!

Welcome to Leadership From the Arena,  true crime edition! Officer Ghidina walks us through his not-so-typical shoplifting call, and his decision to act with compassion and mercy at a time when we all need it most. Nicholas Ghidina South District Patrolman & Mental Health Peace Officer in Arlington Texas. Nicholas served in the Unites States Army Texas National Guard and has served as a Paratrooper for the last 6 years. He has worked as a Youth Specialized Crises Response Counselor, focusing his efforts on Trauma and suicide prevention. 

Doug Nathan shares his insights into human conflict, relationships, stories, and leadership! 

Pete Blank brings the magic and humor to this episode of Leadership from the Arena! 

Peter Kageyama explains the intimate relationship between citizen and city; and how we can all do more to make the places we live, wonderful places to live in. 

Kirsten Wyatt describes her and ELGL's (Engaging Local Government Leaders) mission to amplify the good, learn from the bad, and connect local governments for the good of us all. 

Jon Ruiz talks to me about all the dirty and taboo public sector words like grace, love, and relationship. Viewer discretion is advised. 

Dr. Froswa Booker-Drew gives us all a refreshing dose of hope and impetus right when we need it most. 

Stacy Schweikhart speaks with me about the role and nature of servant leadership during troubled times.