December 2, 2025

Calling Local Leaders: Be a Guest on Community Catalysts

An Invitation to Share Your Leadership Story

The Community Catalysts podcast is taking a year-end break. As we plan our January return, we’re seeking new guests — leaders from throughout local government with inspiring and instructive experiences worth sharing. If you serve your community as an elected official, an appointed leader, or a staff professional in a city, county, or school district, we’d be honored to hear from you.


This podcast is strongest when it lifts the full range of leadership journeys: how people step into public service, the pressures they face, and the lessons that help others lead with clarity and courage. Your story, or the story of someone you know, could make a real difference!


Click here to express your interest. Now is the perfect moment to add your voice to the conversations that will shape the year ahead.


See you in January with fresh insights and important perspectives!


Connect with Matt:


Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, Penny Gross

Public Service Begins With Listening

By Matt Lehrman • May 26, 2026
In the newest episode of Community Catalysts, Penny Gross reflects on the human side of governance, the growing challenge of sustaining civic trust, and the responsibility leaders have to create spaces where difficult conversations can still occur constructively.
One hundred episodes ago, Community Catalysts began with a simple idea: create a space where civic l

Still Reaching

By Matt Lehrman • May 19, 2026
One hundred episodes ago, Community Catalysts began with a simple idea: create a space where civic leaders could speak honestly about the realities of leadership, service, and community.
Charlie Cauffman, COO, Washakie County School District #1, Wyoming

The Truth Is the Work

By Matt Lehrman • May 11, 2026
Charlie Kaufman, Chief Operations Officer for a rural Wyoming school district, shares what it’s like to face both the numbers and the human impact at the same time.
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