February 27, 2024

Introducing ‘Community Catalysts,’ a weekly podcast on leadership

By Matt Lehrman

Social Prosperity Partners


There are many paths to leadership and many ways to lead, whether you’re in the spotlight or working behind the scenes. And that’s why I am excited, proud and grateful to be hosting “Community Catalysts,” a new weekly podcast for and about community leaders like you.


In the inaugural episode, “Church & State,” I talk with the Reverend Audrey Hartness Reese about balancing her dual callings as a Presbyterian pastor and City Council Member in rural South Carolina.


You can listen to our conversation now on Apple, Spotify and other podcast platforms. New episodes drop every Tuesday, so be sure to subscribe to hear advice and inspiration from future guests such as Rudy Mendoza, Chief of Police in Tolleson, Arizona, and Annette Blackwell, the first African American mayor of Maple Heights, Ohio.

Introducing ‘Community Catalysts,’ a weekly podcast hosted by Matt Lehrman.

More than a showcase for stories, “Community Catalysts” is intended to be a durable demonstration that concepts like vision, courage, leadership, inclusivity, trust and collaboration are more than intangible values. They represent specific knowledge and skills that deserve to be shared, honed and put into practice

HOW TO BECOME A GUEST ON THE PODCAST

Are you a Community Catalyst? We aim to learn from a diversity of community leaders — elected, appointed, staff, board members, activists, and more.  Are you willing to talk about your aspirations, achievements, and the hurdles you’ve faced along the way?  Please tell us of your interest by taking our GUEST SURVEY.

Introducing ‘Community Catalysts,’ a weekly podcast hosted by Matt Lehrman.

Connect with Matt:


Mayor Derrick Wood, Town of Dumfries, Virginia

Don’t Be Right. Be Understood.

By Matt Lehrman • March 31, 2026
A reluctant mayor’s journey from barbecue stand to town leadership, and the hard-earned lesson that success isn’t about being right, it’s about helping people see why it matters.
Social Media Isn’t the Problem. Our Approach Is.

Social Media Isn’t the Problem. Our Approach Is.

By Matt Lehrman • March 24, 2026
Social media isn’t the problem—our approach is. In this candid conversation, we reframe civic dialogue online, offering practical insights for local leaders to foster connection, trust, and meaningful engagement.
Sam Toles, founder of CiviSocial

Rethinking Social Media

By Matt Lehrman • March 24, 2026
Sam Toles, founder of CiviSocial, has spent years navigating the mechanics of social media platforms—first as a media executive and later as a city council member who experienced firsthand the pressures local leaders face online.
More Posts