Community Catalysts

• "Somebody Ought to Do Something About That" with Kris Amundson, Former Virginia State Delegate

  What sparks the journey into civic leadership? For Kris Amundson, it started with a simple yet fateful phrase: “Somebody ought to do something about that.” From volunteering in her daughter’s school to serving on the Fairfax County School Board and ultimately the Virginia House of Delegates, Kris shares how a commitment to action—not ambition—drove her leadership path. In this episode, she reflects on the lessons of public service, the power of collaboration, and why compromise isn’t a dirty word. At a time when political division threatens progress, Kris offers a refreshing perspective on getting things done and making government work for the people it serves. 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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• "Reflecting on the Chattahoochee's Transformation" with Mayor Skip Henderson, Columbus, Georgia

  Mayor Skip Henderson of Columbus, Georgia, reflects on the profound impact of the Chattahoochee River Restoration Project, more than a decade after its completion. First envisioned as a bold environmental and economic experiment, the project has transformed Columbus into a destination for outdoor adventure and urban revitalization. Building on the insights from Otis White’s original Civic Strategies podcast, this conversation explores lessons learned and how the project’s success has sparked even greater aspirations for the city’s future. From overcoming skepticism to fueling new waves of investment and civic pride, Mayor Henderson shares how a singular vision has prompted an ongoing cycle of growth and renewal.   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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• "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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