AuthentiCity FM | Real Stories. Bold Ideas. Better Communities.

• AuthentiCity FM, Episode 8: Rivalries, Resilience, and Real Leadership with Victor Cardenas

  #Resilience #PublicSector #LocalGov #CityManagement #Leadership #Authenticity When Midwest leadership collides with sports rivalries, team transitions, and a touch of Detroit flair, you get an episode that’s anything but ordinary.What happens when city management meets football fandom, career leaps, and a wardrobe bursting with Motor City spirit? This episode takes listeners inside the real-life journey from aspiring public servant to the "big chair" in city government, offering candid stories, lessons learned, and plenty of laughter along the way.Discover how stepping up—whether to lead a team through change, adapt from medium-sized municipal life to small-town multitasking, or navigate the uncharted waters of crisis—builds authentic leadership and resilience. You’ll hear how trust is built in city hall and the local barber shop, why small towns run on relationships, and what it truly means to show up for a community in moments big and small.Sports rivalries and fashion statements spark friendly debate, but the heart of this episode lies in its exploration of fiscal stewardship, infrastructure investment, international connections, and the creative ways local leaders keep teams united and communities thriving.Above all, it’s a fast-paced, joy-filled look at the magic that happens when community spirit, organizational growth, and a healthy dose of humor come together in the heart of the Midwest—reminding us that the most meaningful leadership stories are often a blend of grit, grace, and a wardrobe change or two.02:24 Victor Cardenas: Journey into Local Government05:17 Transitioning from Assistant to City Manager08:16 The Challenges of Small Town Management11:27 Economic Development in Novi19:37 Navigating Relationships as a City Manager22:29 Pushing Boundaries in Leadership28:00 Global Connections and Cultural Experiences31:23 Navigating Board Service During COVID35:20 Reflections on Service and Leadership52:03 Cultural Connections and Community Involvement56:50 The Importance of International Collaboration58:10 Sports Rivalries and Community Spirit

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• AuthentiCity FM, Episode 7: Recruitment: What Works, What Doesn't, and Why it Matters

  #Recruitment #PublicSector #LocalGov #CityManagement #Leadership #Authenticity #AuthentiCityFM #RealStories #BoldIdeas #BetterCommunitiesCity managers, directors, and department heads don’t just appear—they’re recruited, chosen, and tested under pressure. Recruiting these top leaders for local government has never been more complex—or more urgent. In this episode of Authenticity FM, we’re joined by Charlene Stevens, Vice President of Human Capital at MGT and a veteran executive recruiter who’s seen every angle of the hiring table. With communities facing waves of retirement, rising expectations, and candidate pools that look nothing like they did a decade ago, how do you actually find the right leader—and what really works in high-stakes recruitment?Phil, Corri, and Mike dig into today’s realities with Charlene, exploring everything from the challenge of attracting great candidates and the influence of social media, to the tension between internal and national searches and the surprising ways mentorship shapes careers. Whether you’ve been through a city manager search or you’re thinking about your next step in public service, you’ll find unfiltered perspectives on what’s changing, what’s challenging, and the practical strategies that can set both organizations and candidates up for success.00:00 The Importance of Executive Recruitment in Local Government01:30 Charlene Stevens: A Journey Through Public Sector Recruitment04:18 Current Trends in Executive Recruitment06:28 Navigating Internal vs. External Candidates11:44 Generational Shifts in Local Government Recruitment15:29 Addressing Reputation Issues in Recruitment18:58 Understanding Governing Body Dynamics29:56 Negotiating Offers: The Role of the Recruiter37:52 Navigating Candidate Communication43:10 Common Interview Mistakes and How to Avoid Them50:19 Mentorship and Talent Spotting56:27 Networking and Building Professional Relationships

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• AuthentiCity FM, Episode 6: Moves, Mentors, and Members Matter

  #Resilience #Vulnerability #LocalGov #CityManagement #Leadership #Authenticity #AuthentiCityFM #RealStories #BoldIdeas #BetterCommunitiesWhat does it really take to keep showing up—at work, at home, and in the moments that test your limits? This episode is all heart, laughter, and honesty, as the team dives into moving families mid-pandemic, balancing burnout and big ambition, and the messy business of leading when nobody has all the answers. From boardroom debates and “easy tiger” pep talks to cutting grass at wild angles and learning reverse mentorship from kids, it’s a conversation that embraces imperfection and proves that vulnerability isn’t a weakness—it’s the secret sauce.If you’ve ever been the “line leader,” felt the pressure to be everything to everyone, or just struggled to find your footing during a year that wouldn’t quit, you’ll find real talk and relatable energy here. Whether you’re chasing career milestones, cheering for your own growth, or just trying to keep your battery charged, this hour is a reminder: bring your whole self, laugh at your missteps, and never underestimate the power of a good team.00:00 Introduction to Tanya and Her Journey13:22 The Role of ICMA and Community Engagement22:13 Leadership Challenges and Vulnerability26:47 The Importance of Authenticity34:46 Stewardship of Democracy in Leadership38:51 The Need for Personal Breaks53:07 Advice for Young Leaders56:41 The Power of Open Disagreement01:00:05 Leadership and Cultivating Others01:04:58 Vulnerability as a Leadership Strength01:12:19 Reverse Mentoring and Learning from the Next Generation

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• AuthentiCity FM, Episode 5: Civility, Safety, and Showing Up

  #Civility #Safety #Resilience #LocalGovernment #CityManagement #Leadership #Authenticity #AuthenticityFM #RealStories #BoldIdeas #BetterCommunitiesWhat happens when the boundaries of public debate break down and incivility becomes the norm? In this episode, the AuthentiCity FM team takes a candid look at the real-world impact of rising hostility, personal attacks, and threats faced by public servants—and explores how leaders can hold the line on civility, safety, and simply showing up in their communities.Through honest stories and frank reflection, Corri, Mike, and Phil talk about what’s driving this new intensity, the toll it takes on local leaders at every level, and what it means for the future of local government. The conversation digs into why civility still matters, how to build real resilience on the front lines of public service, and how safety—both emotional and physical—has become a central concern for those who choose to serve.Along the way, you’ll find moments of vulnerability, camaraderie, practical advice, and even a bit of nostalgia (yes, there’s a Gargamel glass cameo!)—reminding us that showing up authentically is as important as the work itself.00:00 Introduction to Incivility in Local Government02:58 The Impact of Threats and Harassment06:37 Personal Experiences and Reflections09:56 The Role of Social Media in Public Discourse14:29 Learning to Disconnect from Negativity20:01 The Crisis in Local Governance25:12 Building Resilience in Public Service30:09 The Importance of Community Support34:00 Strategies for Civil Discourse39:07 The Role of Storytelling in Governance53:13 Finding Hope and Moving Forward

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• AuthentiCity FM, Episode 4: Talent, Timing, and Turning Points

  #LocalGovernment #CityManagement #Leadership #Authenticity #AuthenticityFM #RealStories #BoldIdeas #BetterCommunitiesJoin hosts Phil, Corri, and Mike as they dig deep into the transformative power of mentorship—the core relationships that shape careers, communities, and confidence. In this episode, the team shares personal stories, explores the evolving definitions of mentorship across generations, and uncovers the small nudges and tough lessons that unlock hidden potential.Discover why the best opportunities often come from someone else recognizing your talents before you do. Learn about the changing nature of mentorship: from traditional, top-down models to collaborative, boundaryless connections fueled by curiosity and technology. You’ll hear about reverse mentorship, generational shifts, and practical advice for finding and becoming great mentors in local government and beyond.Whether you’re a seasoned leader, an emerging professional, or just seeking inspiration for your next chapter, this conversation will challenge how you think about guidance, purpose, and growth. Tune in for real talk, a few laughs, and powerful takeaways that might just change how you see the journey ahead.Sound Bites"Behind every success story, there's usually a mentor who made a difference.""Mentorship is more than advice. It’s about recognizing talent and encouraging growth.""Good mentors help us see potential we didn’t see in ourselves.""Mentorship is not a one-way street. We derive as much as we give."Chapters00:00 The Importance of Mentorship06:03 Personal Stories of Mentorship13:33 Generational Perspectives on Mentorship20:54 Navigating Mentorship in Leadership Roles26:42 Technology and Mentorship Across Generations29:59 Generational Perspectives on Technology and Engagement35:28 Purpose-Driven Work and Reverse Mentorship38:44 Building Connections and Strategic Networking45:06 Curiosity and the Role of AI in Mentorship50:55 Nostalgia and Childhood Memories58:46 The Importance of Mentorship and Support

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