373: Britt Lusk: Growth with Purpose

Britt Lusk: Growth with PurposeLeading Through Change While Preserving Community Identity Episode 373 of The HaltingWinter Podcast Sponsored by Tyler Technologies *]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "7f0aa905-d803-4481-9e44-c1a088a011df" data-testid= "conversation-turn-12" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> Before becoming a city manager, Britt tried nearly everything from foster care caseworker, teacher, factory worker, mental health professional, HR director, and nonprofit leader. None of those careers felt like the right fit. But each one prepared him for the leadership role he never saw coming. In this episode of The HaltingWinter Podcast, Seth Winterhalter sits down with Britt Lusk, City Manager of Pilot Point, Texas, to explore an unconventional journey into local government, the importance of mentorship, and what it takes to lead a community through explosive growth without sacrificing its identity. Britt shares how mentors encouraged him to pursue a Master of Public Administration, why saying "yes" to unexpected opportunities accelerated his career, and how his early experiences shaped the leader he is today. He also offers practical insights from leading through the COVID-19 pandemic, navigating political complexity, and guiding one of Texas's fastest-growing communities with intentional planning and authentic community engagement. If your community is experiencing rapid growth, you're wrestling with organizational change, or you're simply trying to become a better leader, this conversation is full of practical wisdom and encouragement. About Britt LuskBritt Lusk is the City Manager of Pilot Point, Texas, where he leads one of the state's fastest-growing communities while working to preserve its small-town character and rich history. Before discovering his passion for local government, Britt built a diverse career in foster care, education, mental health, human resources, and nonprofit leadership. His unique journey and people-first leadership philosophy have shaped his approach to navigating growth, building trust, and serving communities with purpose. This Episode is Sponsored by: Tyler Technologies – the nation's leading provider of software and technology solutions built specifically for local government. From artificial intelligence and resident engagement to budgeting, planning, and public service delivery, Tyler helps communities operate more efficiently and serve residents more effectively. Learn more at https://tylertech.com/winter The Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC) - The MLDC is a private leadership community designed exclusively for local government professionals. Through practical tools, meaningful conversations, and a nationwide network of peers, members gain the support and perspective needed to lead with greater confidence, clarity, and impact. https://haltingwinter.com/MLDC Connect With Seth Winterhalter Seth Winterhalter is a keynote speaker, storyteller, and President of HaltingWinter, a national media company dedicated to telling the stories of local government. Through The HaltingWinter Podcast and the nationwide HaltingWinter Tour, he highlights the people and communities shaping America from the ground up, celebrating public servants, strengthening the profession, and inspiring the next generation to pursue lives of purpose and impact through local government. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethwinterhalter Website: https://www.HaltingWinter.com