Discover Strength in Shared Questions and Conversation
Every month, you’re invited to a free, friendly, and forward-thinking forum for civic leaders across the country.
Hosted by Matt Lehrman of Social Prosperity Partners, this lightly moderated conversation brings together municipal officials, school board members, nonprofit managers, and other community leaders.
There’s no formal presentation—just authentic dialogue about the challenges you face and the questions worth reflecting on.
Attendance is free but limited to 45 participants. Reserve your place early to join this reflective, supportive exchange.
Discover Strength in
Shared Questions and Conversation
Every month, you’re invited to a free, friendly, and forward-thinking forum for civic leaders across the country.
Hosted by Matt Lehrman of Social Prosperity Partners, this lightly moderated conversation brings together municipal officials, school board members, nonprofit managers, and other community leaders.
There’s no formal presentation—just authentic dialogue about the challenges you face and the questions worth reflecting on.
Attendance is free but limited to 45 participants. Reserve your place early to join this reflective, supportive exchange.
Prosperity
What We’ve Been Talking About
"Bridging Dislike"
Navigating personal tensions within your Council, Board, or Team can be one of local leadership's toughest challenges. Let’s candidly discuss ways to keep personal animosity from derailing the important work of governing - you know, “like a bridge over troubled waters.”
"The Mechanics of Trust"
Let’s talk about how civic leaders earn trust, both individually and for our governing boards and councils. From our experiences, we'll share what works and what doesn't. Join us for a conversation about practical ways to build confidence and credibility in our communities.
"Shaping Tomorrow"
What challenges and opportunities do you see right now that could make a lasting impact in your community or organization? Join civic leaders from across the country to discuss priorities and strategies for building resilience and prosperity in the future.
Join us in 2026 for more
Local Leadership Chats
Where honest dialogue, fresh ideas, and community-minded leadership continue to take root and grow.

A Season for Asking Better Questions
As the year ends, the November 2025 Chat embraced the idea that meaningful New Year’s resolutions start not in January but in the reflective questions we ask now...
A Message for
Every Season
The October 2025 chat was one of our most candid, courageous, deeply honest, and trusting conversations yet.
Who Are We Becoming?
Reflections on Belonging—and
Why It Matters
The September 2025 chat circled one theme again and again: belonging—not just as economics or growth, but as spirit, ownership, and care.
Beyond Burnout:
Leading When You’re Exhausted
Leadership can be lonely. If you’re feeling spent, you’re not alone. Our August 2025 conversation among a cross-section of local civic leaders looked past quick fixes into...
Threats, Safety, and Local Leadership
In July 2025, we explored what leadership looks like when simply serving your community carries real risk. How do local leaders stay focused, stay visible, and stay true to their purpose when threats—both direct and ambient—keep rising?
When to Say No:
The Courage to Stand Apart
The June 2025 Chat explored a theme that resonates deeply: The courage to stand apart. When is it right to say no? How do you do it in a way that’s principled, not performative? And how do you live with the fallout, especially when it’s personal?
When Faith Inspires Service
In May 2025, we discussed how faith inspires service and what guides us in public leadership. We shared how we balance personal conviction and public accountability, and the challenges leaders face when private beliefs meet public responsibility.
When Words Collide
In April 2025, we discussed how leaders can unite when words divide. We reflected on the challenges of upholding fairness, strengthening civic trust, and creating belonging in a time when language itself has become a battleground.
Leading Through Tumultuous Times
At the March 2025 Local Leadership Chat, mayors, council members, school board representatives, and other civic leaders shared challenges and strategies for strengthening governance and public trust.
6 Practical Tips for Building Stronger Communities
At the February 2025 Local Leadership Chat, we discussed the challenges and opportunities of civic communication in a rapidly evolving media environment. The conversation was lively, insightful, and filled with practical advice for navigating the complexities of public engagement.
Leading Through Unreason
At the January 2025 Local Leadership Chat, civic leaders from across the country—representing a wide range of roles and perspectives within local government—came together to share their experiences and strategies for tackling these challenges with resilience and grace.
"Bridging Dislike"
Navigating personal tensions within your Council, Board, or Team can be one of local leadership's toughest challenges. Let’s candidly discuss ways to keep personal animosity from derailing the important work of governing - you know, “like a bridge over troubled waters.”
"The Mechanics of Trust"
Let’s talk about how civic leaders earn trust, both individually and for our governing boards and councils. From our experiences, we'll share what works and what doesn't. Join us for a conversation about practical ways to build confidence and credibility in our communities.
"Shaping Tomorrow"
What challenges and opportunities do you see right now that could make a lasting impact in your community or organization? Join civic leaders from across the country to discuss priorities and strategies for building resilience and prosperity in the future.