Raise Your Hand

John Little

Partner Emeritus

Social Prosperity Partners


“Raise Your Hand.”

This week’s episode of Community Catalysts is unlike any I’ve shared before.

My guest is John Little, former City Manager of Scottsdale, a friend of more than 30 years, and my co-founder in Social Prosperity Partners.

Before we had a name, a website, or even a single client, there was a conversation. John helped shape the questions that became the foundation of Social Prosperity Partners—and the values that continue to guide everything we do.

This interview offers a return to where it all began while, at the same time, marks a defining transition—as John steps into the role of Partner Emeritus.

I want you to hear from him directly… how the words of John F. Kennedy, seeded within him a lifelong call to public service. And how that call was tested, refined, and lived out over decades of community leadership.

At the center of it all is a simple idea that John returns to again and again: Nothing works until someone raises their hand.

Not to complain. Not to observe.

But to step forward, take responsibility, and serve.

As you’ll hear, this episode is deeply personal for me. It’s a reflection on our friendship and partnership, our shared sense of purpose, and especially on the kind of leadership we hope to inspire and enable at the local level.

If you care about public life, about leadership, or about the future of your community, this is a precious chance to hear from John directly—the same wise and thoughtful voice I’ve had the privilege to learn from for more than 30 years.

And if it resonates, I’d genuinely love to hear what it stirred for you.

—-------

An Invitation to Share Your Leadership Story

Community Catalysts is built on the belief that some of the most valuable leadership insights are earned quietly, through real service in real communities.

If you serve in a civic leadership role—and you’d be open to sharing hard-won lessons from your own experience—I invite you to consider being a guest on a future episode.

You can learn more and volunteer by completing a brief guest questionnaire at:www.CatalystGuest.us 

Every submission is reviewed personally. Your story may help another leader see their own work more clearly, or feel less alone in the responsibilities they carry.

Thank you for the work you do—and for considering this invitation.