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PODCAST

Ground Floor Government

Ground Floor Government is the podcast for the people who make local government work—behind the scenes. Hosted by David Plappert, founder of PhoneLive.io, this show gives city and county clerks, IT leads, communication pros, and public servants their time at the mic. ㅤ Each week, we dig into what really keeps cities and counties running—last-minute meeting prep, tech shifts, team leadership, and the quiet but essential work of transparency and public service. If you’ve ever hit publish on a public

government

All Episodes

23:08

From 9/11 to Public Service (with Dustin Sternbeck) |...

Ground Floor Government ·

2026/08/14

SummaryIn this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert interviews Dustin Sternbeck, the Chief Communication Officer of Denton, Texas. Dustin shares his unique journey into public service, driven by the events of 9/11 and his desire to make a positive impact in his community. He discusses the essential skills needed for success in local government, including problem-solving, critical thinking, and effective communication. Dustin highlights the importance of community projects, such as

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21:01

The Art of Storytelling in Local Government (with...

Ground Floor Government ·

2026/08/12

SummaryIn this episode, Hugh Plappert interviews Jenna Martin, the Director of Public Relations for Shelbyville, Indiana. They discuss Jenna's unexpected journey into local government, the challenges and strategies of effective communication within the government, the importance of technology and ADA compliance, and the diverse opportunities available in local government careers. Jenna emphasizes the significance of storytelling and community engagement in her role, as well as the evolving nature of

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22:37

From Classroom to Community (with Vickie Hathaway) |...

Ground Floor Government ·

2026/08/10

SummaryIn this episode, Vickie Hathaway shares her journey into local government, discussing her educational background, the challenges she faces in communication and marketing, and the importance of stakeholder relationships. She emphasizes the creativity required to work within budget constraints and the diverse roles within local government. Vicky also highlights the differences between theoretical knowledge and real-world experience, particularly in emergency communication. She encourages

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20:22

From Theme Park to Local Government (with Angela...

Ground Floor Government ·

2026/08/07

SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Angela Wilson, the Deputy Public Information Officer of Frederick, Colorado, shares her unique journey from managing events at a theme park to her current role in local government. She discusses the importance of effective communication, crisis management, and building trust within the community. Angela emphasizes the need for proactive communication strategies, especially in infrastructure projects, and how to navigate budget constraints while maintaining

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23:40

Building Trust in Local Government (with Lora-Marie...

Ground Floor Government ·

2026/08/05

SummaryIn this episode, Lora-Marie Bernard shares her journey from journalism to becoming a public information officer in Lake Jackson, Texas. She discusses the importance of trusted sources in building community relationships and the challenges she faced on her first day in municipal government. Laura highlights the stability of city government careers compared to the private sector and emphasizes the unique dynamics of various city departments. She also addresses the need for trust in local

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18:37

From Photography to Public Service (with Melissa...

Ground Floor Government ·

2026/08/03

SummaryIn this 100th episode of the podcast, host Hugh Plappert interviews Melissa Harmer, the Communications Director for Raymore, Missouri. Melissa shares her unique journey from a career in photography to her role in local government, discussing the challenges and successes she has faced along the way. The conversation highlights the importance of communication in local government, the impact of inclusive community projects, and the skills needed to navigate the complexities of public service

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22:11

From Police Officer to County Executive (with Mike...

Ground Floor Government ·

2026/07/31

SummaryIn this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert interviews Mike Callagy, the County Executive of San Mateo, California. Mike shares his unique journey from being an undercover police officer to leading a county with a vast array of responsibilities. He discusses the challenges faced during the pandemic, the importance of empowering leadership within his team, and the impactful projects like the Navigation Center aimed at addressing homelessness. The conversation also touches on

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18:15

Crisis Communication in Local Government (with Ariana...

Ground Floor Government ·

2026/07/29

SummaryIn this episode, Ariana Briceno, Public Relations Coordinator for the Town of Davie, Florida, shares her journey into local government and the challenges and rewards of working in public relations. She discusses her transition from social media marketing to crisis communication during COVID-19, the importance of community engagement, and creative strategies for effective communication on a limited budget. Ariana emphasizes the significance of being genuine in communication and the

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21:32

From Family Tradition to Public Service (with Mikki...

Ground Floor Government ·

2026/07/27

SummaryIn this conversation, Mikki Huntsman, City Clerk of Reno, Nevada, shares her journey in local government, highlighting her family's legacy in public service. She discusses the transition from the private sector to public service, the challenges faced in local government, and the importance of collaboration and accessibility. Mikki emphasizes the significance of budgeting and resource management, the need for effective public relations, and her passion for serving the community and developing

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18:53

The Vital Role of a Deputy Clerk (with Bryson Behm) |...

Ground Floor Government ·

2026/07/24

SummaryIn this conversation, Bryson Behm, the County Clerk of Cache County, Utah, shares his journey in local government, discussing the various career paths available, the role of a deputy clerk, and the challenges faced in navigating budgets and public service. He emphasizes the importance of communication, record-keeping, and the impact of local government on the community. Bryson also encourages young professionals to consider careers in local government for their potential for growth and

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16:37

Leading Local Governments (with Leonardo Brown) | Ep. 95

Ground Floor Government ·

2026/07/22

SummaryIn this episode, Hugh Plappert interviews Leonardo Brown, County Administrator of Richland County, South Carolina, discussing the various aspects of working in local government. They explore career opportunities, the challenges faced during the pandemic, the importance of financial management, and the need for collaboration across departments. Brown emphasizes the significance of community impact and the diverse roles available in local government, encouraging listeners to consider a career

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19:58

The Dual Roles of a Town Manager and Clerk (with...

Ground Floor Government ·

2026/07/20

SummaryIn this conversation, Hugh Plappert speaks with Austin Simko, a deputy town manager and town clerk in Andover, Massachusetts. They discuss Austin's unconventional journey into local government, the dual roles he plays, the challenges and rewards of working in this field, and the importance of community engagement. Austin shares insights on budgeting, consensus building, and the impact of unfunded mandates on local governance. He emphasizes the variety of career opportunities in municipal

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26:01

Making an Impact in Local Government (with Colleen...

Ground Floor Government ·

2026/07/17

SummaryIn this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert interviews Colleen Roberts, the Public Information Officer and Brand Manager for New Bern, North Carolina. Colleen shares her journey into local government, the challenges she faces in public communication, and the innovative strategies she employs to engage the community. She discusses the importance of ADA accessibility in communications and offers advice for those considering a career in local government. The conversation

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21:22

From Fire Chief to City Manager (with Chuck Winn) |...

Ground Floor Government ·

2026/07/15

SummaryIn this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert speaks with Chuck Winn, the City Manager of Bozeman, Montana. Chuck shares his journey from aspiring police officer to fire chief and eventually city manager, emphasizing the importance of community service and the unexpected paths that can lead to fulfilling careers in local government. The conversation explores the challenges of managing a growing city, the significance of partnerships, budgeting for community needs, and the

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21:00

The Journey of a City Administrator (with Jeff...

Ground Floor Government ·

2026/07/14

SummaryIn this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert interviews Jeff Fiegenschuh, the City Administrator of Washington, Illinois. They discuss Jeff's journey into local government, the dynamics of working in smaller communities, and the challenges faced during unexpected events like COVID-19. Jeff shares insights on the importance of budgeting as a policy tool, the impact of community projects, and the significance of transparency and collaboration in local government. He also

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20:44

The Growth of Communication in Local Government (with...

Ground Floor Government ·

2026/07/10

SummaryIn this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert interviews Kara Roberson, the Strategic Communication Officer in Wentzville, Missouri. They discuss Kara's journey into local government, her career growth, and the evolution of communication strategies within local government. Kara shares insights on the challenges of reactive communication, innovative projects that engage the community, and the unique aspects of working in local government. The conversation highlights the

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15:39

Navigating Election Challenges (with Lisa Goodwin) |...

Ground Floor Government ·

2026/07/08

SummaryIn this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert interviews Lisa Goodwin, the City Clerk of Bangor, Maine. They discuss Lisa's journey in local government, the challenges faced during the 2024 election, and the positive impact of community projects. Lisa shares insights on budgeting, resource management, and the essential people skills required in local government. The conversation also touches on ADA compliance, the broad scope of the City Clerk's role, and the importance of

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16:43

From Business to Public Service (with Frederick...

Ground Floor Government ·

2026/07/06

SummaryIn this conversation, Frederick Tobar shares his journey in local government, highlighting the diverse opportunities available and the importance of adaptability and people skills. He discusses his various roles, the challenges faced, and the positive impact of local projects on the community. Frederick emphasizes the value of a helpful attitude and the significance of understanding the connection between numbers and people's emotions in public service.TakeawaysLocal government offers diverse

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19:36

From Music to Local Government (with Rick Dave) | Ep. 87

Ground Floor Government ·

2026/07/03

SummaryIn this episode, Hugh Plappert interviews Rick Dave, an IT technician in local government, exploring his journey from a music background to a career in local government technology. Rick shares insights on the impact of local government on communities, the importance of technology and people skills, and how he navigates challenges in his role. He emphasizes the need for continuous learning and adaptation in a fast-paced environment, while also discussing the future of AV projects and the

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20:42

Understanding the Role of County Government (with...

Ground Floor Government ·

2026/07/01

SummaryIn this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert interviews Melissa Agard, County Executive of Dane County, Wisconsin. They discuss Melissa's journey from being a recipient of local government services to leading the county. The conversation covers the breadth of county government services, the importance of crisis management, and the successes achieved in the community. Melissa emphasizes the need for compassion and service in local government, encouraging individuals,

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126 results

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