Community Catalysts

• "Choosing Collaboration” with Robert Lazaro, Executive Director, Northern Virginia Regional Commission

  What does it take for independent municipalities to choose collaboration over going it alone—without mandates or central authority? Robert Lazaro, Executive Director of the Northern Virginia Regional Commission (NVRC), reveals how regional leadership is rooted in trust, shared priorities, and open communication. As a forum for 13 local governments and 2.5 million residents, NVRC connects communities across boundaries to address common challenges—from expanding clean energy initiatives to strengthening climate resilience. Sponsored by the Regional Elected Leaders Initiative (RELI) at George Mason University’s Schar School of Policy and Government.   LINKS Ask a Question or Leave a Comment:  602-688-2724 Send Matt a Note:  [email protected]  Apply to Be a Podcast Guest:  Click Here     Follow on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn Produced by Social Prosperity Partners

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• "When Incivility Wins” with Former Mayor Ginny Dickey of Fountain Hills, Arizona

  “Their goal isn’t to govern better—it’s to blow things up.”  Former Mayor Ginny Dickey of Fountain Hills, Arizona, shares an unflinching account of how local politics took a dark turn. Having lost her 2024 reelection bid, the Mayor reflects on the rise of vicious attacks designed to fuel anger and spread division—and how conventional campaigning proved no match for these tactics. Her experience is a wake-up call for leaders everywhere. Listen for her hard-earned insights on how to stay alert and ready to respond.   LINKS Ask a Question or Leave a Comment:  602-688-2724 Send Matt a Note:  [email protected]  Apply to Be a Podcast Guest:  Click Here     Follow on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn Produced by Social Prosperity Partners

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• "Decency, Fortitude, Community" with Mayor Brian Vincent of Farmville, Virginia

  Mayor Brian Vincent of Farmville, Virginia, shares how his leadership philosophy—rooted in decency, fortitude, and community—guides him through the challenges of public service. Drawing from personal resilience and the principles of Stoicism, he reflects on balancing history with progress, fostering meaningful civic dialogue, and navigating political division with unwavering integrity. Inspired by the legacy of his father, a fallen U.S. Army officer, the Mayor’s approach to leadership is a testament to the power of quiet strength, service, and purpose-driven action. LINKS Ask a Question or Leave a Comment:  602-688-2724 Send Matt a Note:  [email protected]  Apply to Be a Podcast Guest:  Click Here     Follow on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn Produced by Social Prosperity Partners

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• "Bring the Compassion" with Vivienne Leyva, Public Information Officer for Riley County, Kansas

  Vivian Leyva, Public Information Officer for Riley County, Kansas, reflects on the pros and cons of social media and how it reaffirms the critical importance of human connection in local government leadership and communication. Drawing on her experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic and other crises, she highlights why empathy and clear messaging are essential for building trust, strengthening relationships, and guiding communities through challenging times. Her candid insights provide thoughtful and practical guidance for leaders striving to foster authenticity and compassion.   LINKS Ask a Question or Leave a Comment:  602-688-2724 Send Matt a Note:  [email protected]  Apply to Be a Podcast Guest:  Click Here     Follow on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn Produced by Social Prosperity Partners

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• "Collaboration, Vision, and Leadership" with Mary Hynes and Jay Fisette of Northern Virginia’s Regional Elected Leaders Initiative

  What does it take to foster meaningful collaboration in Northern Virginia’s diverse, fast-changing communities? Mary Hynes and Jay Fisette, co-directors of the Regional Elected Leaders Initiative (RELI) at George Mason University, draw on their decades of leadership experience to share powerful insights on breaking barriers and building trust. From visionary transit-oriented development to tackling climate challenges, Mary and Jay reflect together on the practical steps needed to turn shared challenges into collaborative opportunities. LINKS Ask a Question or Leave a Comment:  602-688-2724 Send Matt a Note:  [email protected]  Apply to Be a Podcast Guest:  Click Here     Follow on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn Produced by Social Prosperity Partners

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