The Clear Voice

In Episode #84 of The Clear Voice, James Groom sits down with Dee Maddox, founder of DMX Consulting, to talk about leadership, communication, workforce development, and what it really takes to lead people through change. Dee brings more than 30 years of experience working with people and organizations, including a long federal career and service with NASA during the transition of the Space Shuttle Program. She shares what that experience taught her about communicating through uncertainty, taking care of people during major organizational change, and why knowing the reason for a change does not necessarily make it easier to accept. James and Dee also discuss the evolving role of HR, breaking down silos inside organizations, helping employees understand how their work connects to the bigger picture, and why strong job candidates sometimes struggle to clearly communicate their value during an interview. Dee also introduces her DEED Framework for leadership: Design, Education, Execution, and Documentation, with an emphasis on ownership and accountability. Chapters 00:00 - Leading Through Change 00:47 - Meet Dee Maddox 07:23 - When Technology Replaces the Job 11:39 - AI and the Future of Work 15:34 - Leading the NASA Space Shuttle Transition 21:23 - Communication During Major Change 25:16 - Is HR Really There for Employees? 28:06 - Breaking Down Organizational Silos 32:21 - Why Great Candidates Get Passed Over 40:14 - The DEED Framework 49:18 - The Work Public Servants Do That People Never See 54:54 - Developing People and Keeping Good Employees 1:02:48 - The One Thing Every Leader Should Understand Connect with Dee Maddox Dee Maddox on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deemaddox/ DMX Consulting on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dmxconsulting/ DMX Consulting: https://deemaddoxconsulting.com/ ATD Dallas: https://tddallas.org/page-1863843 The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

In this PositionCast™, James Groom is joined by Sansom Park Mayor Jim Barnett to discuss the city’s search for its next Chief of Police. Mayor Barnett shares his background in Sansom Park, law enforcement, and public administration, along with what candidates can expect from the community, City Council, and city leadership. The conversation also covers the police department’s accreditation, Drone as First Responder program, K9 unit, staffing, culture, recruiting, and long-term priorities. James adds perspective from his current role as interim police chief, including what he found when he arrived, the department’s strengths, and what the next chief will need to do to move the organization forward. The episode closes with a discussion about leadership, accountability, retention, budgeting, and what success should look like during the new chief’s first year. View the full job posting and apply: https://tml.careerwebsite.com/job/chief-of-police/85793743/ View the recruitment brochure: https://sansompark.org/DocumentCenter/View/3040/Sansom-Park-Police-Chief-Brochure?bidId= Chapters 00:00 - Why Sansom Park Stands Out 00:52 - Welcome to the PositionCast™ 04:30 - Mayor Jim Barnett’s Background 09:33 - Leadership Philosophy and Council Support 13:07 - “Greater Together” and the Sansom Park Community 15:34 - Inside the Sansom Park Police Department 19:27 - Living and Working Near Fort Worth 25:38 - Priorities for the Next Police Chief 30:47 - Leading from the Front 32:39 - Finding the Right Fit 35:47 - An Interim Chief’s Perspective on the Department 41:31 - Recruiting, Retention, and Building Culture The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

Dr. Wes Blair, Chief of Police at Memphis International Airport, joins The Clear Voice to talk about his career across multiple states, the move from traditional municipal policing into airport law enforcement, and why wellness has to start at the top. Wes shares how airport policing is still police work, but in a very different environment with travelers, tenants, airlines, federal regulations, security expectations, and customer service all layered together. The conversation also turns to officer health and wellness, the old law enforcement culture that kept many people from talking about what they were carrying, and why leaders must model the same care and support they expect from their teams. Read Wes’s article for Clear Career Professionals: https://clearcareerpro.com/clear-news/authentic-leadership-taking-care-of-ourselves Learn more about Wes and Blair Advisor Group: https://blairadvisorgroup.com/ Connect with Wes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wes-blair/ Chapters: 00:00 Why Wellness Became Personal 03:09 Wes Blair’s Law Enforcement Background 06:19 Federal Air Marshal Experience 08:08 Returning to Community Policing 11:09 Knowing When It Is Time to Leave 12:40 Moving Across States and Organizations 16:11 Leadership, Uniforms, and Culture 19:33 Municipal Policing vs. Airport Policing 22:12 Airport Reporting Structure and Leadership 24:49 Relationships Across the Organization 28:18 Officer Health and Wellness 36:45 Annual Mental Health Check-Ins 41:22 Put Your Mask On First 46:36 Blair Advisor Group and Leadership Training 48:07 Advice for Public Sector Leaders The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

The City of Frisco, Texas, is searching for its next Fire Chief. In this PositionCast™, James Groom and Clear Career Professionals President Michael Boese are joined by Frisco City Manager Wes Pierson, Deputy City Manager E.A. Hoppe, and Interim Fire Chief Clay Carpenter for an inside look at the department, the community, and what Frisco needs from its next fire service leader. Frisco’s next chief will inherit a high-performing department with significant resources, talented employees, a strong command staff, and a culture built around teamwork, innovation, and high expectations. The conversation covers department operations, continued growth, EMS, emergency management, Frisco’s SAFER system, organizational culture, and the leadership qualities that will matter most in the selection process. Interested candidates can find the official recruitment brochure, position details, and application instructions on the Current Opportunities page at ClearCareerPro.com. Chapters 00:00 – Why This Is a Unique Fire Chief Opportunity 00:37 – Welcome to the PositionCast™ 02:38 – Meet Frisco’s Leadership Team 06:41 – Leadership Philosophy: Citizens First 08:38 – The Culture of Team Frisco 11:09 – What Frisco Needs From Its Next Fire Chief 15:29 – Inside the Frisco Fire Department 18:13 – Growth, New Stations & Future Resources 19:44 – ISO 1, Accreditation & High Standards 21:27 – Living, Working & Leading in Frisco 29:35 – Emergency Management & the SAFER System 33:55 – Operational Challenges & Opportunities 38:06 – The Clear Recruitment Process 41:42 – Final Advice for Candidates 44:46 – Learn More & Apply The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

Organizations spend enormous time and money developing leaders, but how much attention do we give to developing better followers? Rick Chambers, author of Inspired: A Story of Leading, Following, and Changing and creator of Followership Works, joins James Groom to explore why followership may be one of the most overlooked pieces of organizational success. Rick explains how strong followers use critical thinking, self management, coachability, managing up, and constructive dissent to help their leaders, their teams, and themselves become more effective. The conversation explores why followership is not about being a yes person, how employees can influence an organization without formal authority, and why learning to follow well can help prepare someone to lead. Rick and James also discuss respectfully challenging a boss, navigating poor decisions, building trust, knowing when it may be time to leave, and the responsibility every employee has to help advance the organization’s mission. Rick closes with the trim tab analogy, a reminder that even someone without the title or authority can help turn the entire ship. Chapters: 00:00 The Power of the Trim Tab 03:05 What Is Followership? 04:53 Learning to Influence Without Authority 09:52 Why We Train Leaders but Not Followers 14:30 Managing Up and Constructive Dissent 28:44 How to Respectfully Disagree With Your Boss 34:03 When All Else Fails 40:47 Finding Your Trim Tab Opportunity Connect with Rick Chambers: LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/followership/ Followership Works https://followership.works Inspired: A Story of Leading, Following, and Changing https://amzn.to/4zpSe7y The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

The City of Denison, Texas, is searching for its next Director of Development Services during a period of significant growth and development. In this PositionCast™, Interim City Manager Renee’ Waggoner discusses the opportunity, Denison’s leadership culture, the Development Services team, and what the successful candidate will need to bring to the role. Topics include: • Leading planning and zoning, building permitting and inspections, neighborhood services and code compliance, and historic preservation. • Managing rapid growth while protecting Denison’s historic character, established neighborhoods, and quality of life. • The approximately 3,200 acre Preston Harbor development along Lake Texoma and other major growth occurring throughout the community. • Building strong relationships with employees, developers, residents, City Council, and community partners. • The leadership style, experience, and approach Denison is seeking in its next director. Salary Range: $150,000 to $170,000, depending on qualifications and experience. First Review: August 24, 2026. Learn more and apply: https://clearcareerpro.com/clear-news/denison-texas-director-of-development-services-job-posting   00:00 Denison Is the Right Step 01:30 Growth and Opportunity in Denison 02:49 Leadership and Culture at the City 08:04 Managing Growth While Protecting Denison 11:48 The Director of Development Services Role 16:25 Preston Harbor and What’s Ahead 19:39 What Makes Denison Special 27:37 The First 90 Days and Ideal Candidate The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

The City of Rowlett, Texas is searching for its next City Manager. In this PositionCast™, Rowlett Mayor Jeff Winget joins James Groom, The Clear Voice host, and Michael Boese, President of Clear Career Professionals and lead recruiter for the search, for an in depth conversation about the community, the organization, and the leadership opportunity ahead. Rowlett is a community of nearly 70,000 residents on the shores of Lake Ray Hubbard in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. The city is entering an important period of transition, with significant opportunities in economic development, organizational culture, infrastructure, capital projects, and community growth. Mayor Winget discusses the City Council’s priorities for the next City Manager, including rebuilding trust, strengthening communication, filling key leadership vacancies, developing a positive organizational culture, and moving major projects forward. He also explains why economic development will be critical to Rowlett’s future, including opportunities at Sapphire Bay and in the North Shore area. The conversation also explores several funded capital projects, including a new public safety building, animal shelter, and improvements to Herfurth Park. Throughout the episode, Mayor Winget emphasizes the importance of humility, honesty, empathy, communication, and a willingness to listen. The City is looking for a leader who wants to put down roots in Rowlett, build relationships with employees and residents, and help shape the community for years to come. The salary range is $285,000 to $315,000, with a competitive benefits package. Applications are open through August 28, 2026. Learn more about the City Manager opportunity and apply: https://clearcareerpro.com/clear-news/rowlett-texas-city-manager-job-posting 00:00 Introduction 03:04 Why This Moment Matters for Rowlett 07:12 Leadership, Council, and Community 11:30 Priorities for the Next City Manager 17:14 Economic Development and Rowlett’s Future 21:25 Capital Projects and Growth Opportunities 24:59 Organizational Culture and Rebuilding Trust 28:03 Living and Working in Rowlett 37:40 The Candidate Rowlett Is Looking For 41:21 Why Experienced City Managers Should Consider Rowlett 43:26 Salary, Benefits, and Recruitment Process 47:20 Final Message to Candidates The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

This episode is dedicated to Zackery Mehlman, July 19, 2004 to March 22, 2021, and the more than 350,000 lives lost to the opioid crisis. May their memories strengthen our commitment to preventing further loss. This episode includes discussions of mental health, substance abuse, fentanyl, overdose deaths, and family trauma. Listener discretion is advised. A community crisis cannot be solved by one department, one program, or one enforcement strategy. Aubrey D. Paul, also known as A.D. Paul, joins James Groom and Clear Career Professionals President Michael Boese to discuss the experiences behind his memoir, Plano Grace. Aubrey is a retired Plano police sergeant and longtime crisis intervention leader whose career placed him at the center of Plano’s response to heroin addiction and overdose deaths during the 1990s. Aubrey shares how law enforcement, city leadership, schools, hospitals, churches, treatment providers, and other community partners came together during the crisis. He also explains why transparency, collaboration, and treating every person with dignity remain essential when communities confront addiction, mental illness, and other complex challenges. The conversation explores the continued fight against fentanyl, the development of crisis intervention programs, the importance of Narcan access, and the role municipal leaders play in supporting long-term solutions. Aubrey also discusses the personal loss, family struggles, redemption, and faith that shaped his life and inspired him to write Plano Grace. 📘 Purchase Plano Grace on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3TVWzPs 00:00 Dignity and Respect in Law Enforcement 00:16 Introduction and Content Advisory 02:28 Aubrey D. Paul’s Journey into Law Enforcement 05:07 Leadership and the Growth of Plano 08:13 The Story Behind Plano Grace 14:02 How Plano Responded to a Community Crisis 18:17 Addiction Then and Now 23:30 Communication, Transparency, and the Media 26:29 Encouragement for Frustrated Officers 31:02 Helping a Loved One Facing Addiction 34:35 The Development of Crisis Intervention Teams 39:03 Community Partnerships and Jail Diversion 42:06 Investing in Long-Term Solutions 44:24 Narcan and Overdose Prevention 46:08 Aubrey’s Final Message and Faith Journey 48:53 Continuing to Serve with Purpose 49:43 Closing and Resources The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

Ben Jarrett has spent his career around water, first as a professional bass fisherman, then in the boating industry, and now as a Regional Sales Director for Next Meters USA. In this episode of The Clear Voice, Ben joins James Groom to discuss his unconventional career journey and the lessons he learned from fishing, competition, hard work, and conservation. The conversation then moves into the challenges facing municipal water utilities. Ben explains how aging meters can miss usage, how hidden leaks can lead to unexpectedly high bills, and how smart water meters give utilities and customers faster access to accurate information. They also discuss water scarcity, infrastructure planning, meter replacement, customer satisfaction, and the importance of selecting technology that employees can actually understand and use. Ben shares what communities should consider when moving from manual meter reading or drive-by systems to advanced metering infrastructure. For Next Meters, the goal is simple: provide utilities with powerful technology while making smart water beautifully simple. Chapters 00:57 Introduction and Ben’s Career Journey 03:02 From Professional Bass Fishing to the Water Industry 05:54 Work Ethic, Preparation, and Career Lessons 08:29 Meeting Your Heroes and Competing at the Highest Level 10:22 Conservation and Protecting Water Resources 12:07 Water Scarcity and the Role of Smart Metering 14:52 Finding Leaks and Water Loss Faster 16:53 Customer Satisfaction and Usage Awareness 21:13 Aging Meters and Lost Utility Revenue 23:36 Better Data for Rates and Infrastructure Planning 25:09 Moving from Manual Reading to Smart Metering 27:36 Implementing and Maintaining a Smart Meter System 31:10 Choosing the Right Metering Technology 33:25 Why Software and Usability Matter 35:58 Making Smart Water Beautifully Simple 40:41 Encouragement for Utility Professionals Connect with Ben LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-jarrett-288969108/ Email: [email protected] Phone: 903-387-3550 Learn More About Next Meters https://nextmeters.com/ The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

What if a city could inspect roads, drainage systems, water tanks, utilities, and other hard-to-reach infrastructure faster, safer, and with more detail than a traditional field survey? In this episode of The Clear Voice, Host James Groom talks with Craig Kerkhoff, PE and Dr. Robert Hendricks of Birkhoff, Hendricks & Carter, LLP about how LiDAR, drones, remote sensing, 3D mapping, and artificial intelligence are changing municipal engineering. They explain how LiDAR creates detailed 3D models that help cities document existing conditions, improve worker safety, speed up surveys, inspect infrastructure, and support future projects. The conversation also explores how cities can turn raw data into useful information and better decisions. Topics include LiDAR technology, drone-based surveys, digital mapping, elevated storage tank inspections, pavement analysis, municipal asset identification, and the future of AI in city infrastructure. Learn more about Birkhoff, Hendricks & Carter, LLP: https://bhcllp.com Contact Craig Kerkhoff: [email protected] 00:00 Introduction to Innovative Infrastructure Inspection 02:15 Meet the Experts: Craig and Robert 04:28 The Role of BHC in Municipal Engineering 07:00 Transitioning from Geology to Engineering 08:19 The Power of LiDAR Technology 09:03 Understanding LiDAR: How It Works 11:32 Creating 3D Maps for Cities 13:03 Improving Survey Speed and Safety 15:14 Eliminating Red Tape with Drone Surveys 16:59 Rapid Data Collection for Municipal Projects 17:55 How LiDAR Works in Dense Environments 18:55 Real-World LiDAR Applications 25:59 From Data to Information to Understanding 33:24 AI, Digital Twins, and the Future of City Mapping 38:06 Advice for Public Works Leaders 40:51 How to Connect with BHC The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

In Episode #74 of The Clear Voice, host James Groom sits down with Justin Atherton, President of Training and Operations at Proactive Leadership, bestselling author of How to Get to the Damn Point, and a nationally recognized leadership and investigative interviewing instructor. Drawing on nearly two decades of experience in corrections, patrol, investigations, SWAT, supervision, and leadership development, Justin shares practical strategies for becoming a more effective communicator and leader. The conversation explores why clarity builds confidence, how supervisors can coach employees without creating dependence, and why emotional regulation goes far beyond the traditional concept of emotional intelligence. James and Justin also discuss cognitive interviewing, building rapport, avoiding memory contamination, creating organizational buy-in, and helping employees develop the confidence to make sound decisions on their own. Whether you work in law enforcement, local government, human resources, investigations, or another leadership role, this episode offers practical tools for communicating more clearly and leading more effectively. Topics discussed include: • Why clarity is a leadership obligation • The Point–Why–Context communication framework • Coaching employees to become confident decision-makers • Building trust through clear and authentic communication • Emotional regulation, emotional vocabulary, agility, and resilience • Cognitive interviewing and avoiding memory contamination • Building rapport during difficult interviews and investigations • Creating buy-in during organizational change • Developing future leaders through coaching and accountability Chapters 00:00 Preview 00:26 Introduction to Leadership and Communication 02:45 Justin's Journey Through Law Enforcement 05:18 Why Communication Is a Leadership Skill 07:49 Lessons from Corrections and Patrol 10:28 Becoming a Leader Instead of Just Doing the Job 14:32 Clarity Is a Leadership Obligation 16:08 Confidence vs. Competence in Leadership 19:23 Creating Organizational Buy-In 22:47 Coaching Without Micromanaging 27:45 Developing Independent Decision-Makers 28:26 The Cognitive Interview and Better Conversations 36:02 Emotional Regulation Beyond Emotional Intelligence 40:40 Justin's Favorite Leadership Emotions 43:28 Inside How to Get to the Damn Point 48:36 Where to Find Justin's Book and Training 49:19 Final Leadership Advice 50:23 Outro Learn more about Proactive Leadership: https://proactiveleader.com Purchase How to Get to the Damn Point: https://a.co/d/08C3Gqlo The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

In this episode of The Clear Voice, we highlight the Chief of Police opportunity in Pampa, Texas. Host and recruiter James Groom visits with City Manager Shane Stokes and Assistant City Manager Dustin Miller about the community, the police department, the city’s leadership culture, and the type of servant leader Pampa is seeking for its next Chief of Police. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Pampa Chief of Police Opportunity 02:51 Meet City Manager Shane Stokes 03:50 Meet Assistant City Manager Dustin Miller 06:20 Leadership Philosophy and Servant Leadership 08:23 Working with the Mayor and City Commission 09:56 Mission Statement, Absolutes, and Organizational Culture 12:14 One City Team: Collaboration Across Departments 15:20 About the Pampa Police Department 17:51 Motors, Dispatch, and Community Trust 20:15 Department Strengths and Current Challenges 21:43 Key Public Safety and Community Partnerships 24:24 Welcome Home: Life in Pampa 27:32 Recreation, Events, and Quality of Life 32:21 What Pampa Wants in Its Next Police Chief 36:01 How Candidates Can Apply 38:27 Final Thoughts from Dustin Miller and Shane Stokes 39:57 Closing Remarks The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

Denison, Texas is searching for its next City Manager, and this PositionCast™ gives candidates a closer look at the community, council, staff, and leadership environment behind the opportunity. In this episode of The Clear Voice, host James Groom is joined by Mayor Robert Crawley and Clear Career Professionals President Michael Boese to discuss Denison’s historic character, award-winning downtown, access to Lake Texoma, strong community partnerships, and major development momentum. The conversation also explores what the next City Manager will need to bring to the role, including communication, financial acumen, growth management, relationship building, humility, listening, and the ability to lead a strong staff without micromanaging. Denison is a growing North Texas community with a historic Main Street district, a service-first culture, and a major opportunity ahead through the Preston Harbor development. Candidates interested in helping guide that next chapter are encouraged to review the full posting and brochure. Full posting and brochure: https://clearcareerpro.com/clear-news/denison-texas-city-manager-job-posting Chapters: 0:04 Welcome to The Clear Voice and the Denison Opportunity 2:27 Mayor Robert Crawley Joins the Conversation 2:58 Mayor Crawley’s Path to Denison and Public Service 6:06 Banking, Service, and Local Government Leadership 7:45 What Makes Denison Unique 11:55 Schools, Families, Livability, and Community Partnerships 13:48 Why Candidates Will Be Attracted to Denison 15:24 Growth, Preston Harbor, and Preserving Denison’s Character 19:26 Skills Needed for the Next City Manager 21:42 How the Denison City Council Works 23:08 Communication with Council, Staff, and the Community 24:49 Team Denison and the Strength of City Staff 26:40 Service-First Culture and Leadership Style 28:47 First-Year Priorities for the New Manager 30:46 Key Technical Skills for Candidates 32:46 Humility, Listening, and Leadership Intangibles 35:16 How to Apply for the Denison City Manager Role 36:34 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

In this episode of The Clear Voice, James Groom sits down with Matt Wright, Human Resources Director for the City of Buda, Texas, to talk about employee retention, organizational culture, and the human side of public service. Matt brings a unique perspective to the conversation after transitioning from a long career with the Austin Police Department into municipal HR. The discussion explores why good employees leave public sector organizations, why culture often matters as much as compensation, and how leaders can better serve the employees who serve the community. James and Matt also discuss the importance of organizational justice, procedural fairness, emotional regulation, and treating employees with dignity and respect. From public works crews fixing water lines in the Texas heat to police officers serving the public after a difficult interaction with a supervisor, this conversation focuses on how internal leadership directly affects external service. Matt’s key takeaway for leaders is simple but powerful: you get to decide how you show up in your next interaction. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and why good employees leave 02:50 Culture, retention, and feeling valued 05:13 Balancing community expectations and employee needs 07:48 Public Works and the unseen work of local government 08:09 Recognizing employee disengagement before they leave 12:52 Matt’s transition from policing to municipal HR 22:20 The human element in public service leadership 24:31 HR as service to the people who serve the community 28:08 Organizational justice, fairness, and internal culture 32:50 Dignity, respect, and emotional regulation in leadership 35:10 Push versus hold: slowing down leadership reactions 38:12 Using AI to improve communication and understanding 41:18 Matt’s future aspirations and leadership growth 42:37 Final takeaway for leaders The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

In this episode of The Clear Voice, guests Debbie Munoz, Executive Director of the Texas Municipal Retirement System, Dan Wattles, former TMRS Director of Governmental Relations, and Michael Boese, President of Clear Career Professionals, join host James Groom to discuss an important executive leadership opportunity with TMRS. TMRS is recruiting for its next Director of Governmental Relations, a role that sits at the intersection of public policy, relationships, pension governance, and public service. This position plays a critical role in protecting the retirement system that serves Texas cities, public servants, retirees, and their families. Throughout the conversation, Debbie and Dan explain why governmental relations at TMRS is about much more than monitoring legislation. The right person must build trust before session begins, understand how policy changes can impact the system, work closely with internal departments, and maintain strong relationships with state and federal stakeholders. Dan shares his experience serving in the role and describes TMRS as one of the most rewarding positions of his career. Debbie also discusses TMRS’s organizational culture, the importance of collaboration, and the kind of energetic, engaged, mission-driven leader she hopes to bring into the organization. For candidates with governmental relations experience, public policy knowledge, strong relationship-building skills, and a passion for public service, this is a rare opportunity to help protect one of the most important retirement systems in Texas. Apply for the Position Learn more and apply for the TMRS Director of Governmental Relations position here: https://clearcareerpro.com/clear-news/tmrs-director-of-governmental-relations-posting In This Episode 00:00 Introduction and Why This Role Matters 03:02 Dan Wattles’ Path to TMRS 06:17 Serving Texas Cities, Public Servants, and Retirees 08:11 Debbie Munoz’s Background and TMRS Mission 12:53 Why Governmental Relations Is Critical to TMRS 15:16 Building Trust Before Legislative Session 18:11 Playing Defense and Protecting the System 21:04 Federal Issues and Pension Policy 25:25 Why TMRS Is Different from a State Agency 28:57 The Culture and Organizational Health at TMRS 32:55 Internal Relationships and Cross-Department Collaboration 38:23 The Work Between Legislative Sessions 42:23 How to Apply for the TMRS Opportunity 45:20 Living and Working in Austin 50:19 Can Private-Sector GR Experience Transfer? 53:17 Final Advice for Applicants   The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

La Marque, Texas is looking for its next City Manager. In this PositionCast™, Mayor Keith Bell joins The Clear Voice host James Groom and Clear Career Professionals recruiters Brad Stafford and James Hopper to discuss the opportunity, the community, the council’s priorities, and the leadership qualities needed for La Marque’s next chapter. Known as the Gateway to the Gulf, La Marque sits along the I-45 corridor between Houston and Galveston, offering a unique blend of hometown community, regional access, economic development opportunity, and strong local pride. This conversation covers: • The type of City Manager La Marque needs • Council and community expectations • City services, infrastructure, and fiscal accountability • Economic development along the I-45 corridor • Staff culture and organizational leadership • Stakeholder relationships and regional partnerships • What success could look like in the first year For leaders who can manage people, build trust, communicate clearly, and lead with steady accountability, La Marque offers a meaningful opportunity to make a lasting impact. Learn more about this role and apply through Clear Career Professionals. 00:00 Opening: Getting La Marque Back on Track 01:05 Introducing the La Marque City Manager Opportunity 03:01 Mayor Keith Bell’s Public Service Journey 05:29 Leadership, Diversity, and Community Voice 11:49 Gateway to the Gulf: Location, Growth, and Opportunity 19:48 What La Marque Needs from Its Next City Manager 24:45 Leading a Passionate Council, Staff, and Community 29:41 Desired Experience and Leadership Style 33:48 Schools, Football, and Community Pride 36:45 City Staff, Culture, and Organizational Leadership 42:25 Accountability, Infrastructure, and Economic Development 46:24 Building Relationships with Stakeholders and Regional Partners 54:57 First-Year Success and Recruitment Details 59:15 Candidate Advice from Clear Career Professionals 1:02:07 Final Thoughts: Why La Marque 1:07:56 Closing: Leave Your Mark on La Marque The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

In Part 2 of our conversation with Jim Devlin, we pick up with his transition from Police Chief to Assistant City Manager and what that move has taught him about leadership, succession planning, relationships, and service beyond the badge. Jim talks about the natural progression from leading a department to helping lead an organization, the importance of collaboration across city departments, and why relationship building remains one of the most transferable skills in local government. He also shares thoughts on mental health and wellness in city management, the value of professional development through the Texas City Management Institute, and the importance of regional partnerships in serving communities well. The episode closes with Jim’s advice for emerging public servants: know yourself, build relationships, stay humble, strive for excellence, and remember that people may forget the programs and projects, but they will remember how you treated them. Chapters 00:00 - Welcome Back to Part 2 00:57 - Moving from Police Chief to Assistant City Manager 06:17 - Skills That Transfer from Police Leadership to City Management 11:55 - Leadership, Wellness, and Taking Care of Yourself 12:45 - Mental Health in Public Safety and City Administration 16:53 - Burnout, Pressure, and Secondhand Smoke in City Leadership 19:43 - Texas City Management Institute 24:43 - Borrowing Good Ideas and Making Them Fit Your Community 25:51 - Hewitt, Waco, and the Real Central Texas 32:33 - Regional Partnerships and Shared Services 35:15 - Advice for Emerging Public Servants 38:05 - Is a Career in Public Service Worth It? 39:43 - Closing Thoughts Connect with Jim Devlin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-devlin-cpm-15886570/ The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

In this episode of The Clear Voice, James Groom and Michael Boese sit down with Bryan Lockerby to discuss leadership, law enforcement, city management, organizational assessments, and the lessons learned from more than four decades of public service. Bryan shares perspective from his career in Montana law enforcement, including leading the state’s Division of Criminal Investigation, working with rural agencies, managing complex public safety challenges, and transitioning into city management. The conversation also covers leadership clarity, decision-making, mentorship, organizational health, and why strong systems matter long after individual leaders move on. Chapters 00:00 Leadership Principles and Opening Thoughts 03:55 Clarity Purpose and Courage in Decision-Making 06:30 Difficult Decisions in Law Enforcement Leadership 09:12 Early Career Lessons and the Value of Experience 11:48 Rural Law Enforcement and Resource Challenges 14:23 Community Relationships and Police Legitimacy 17:01 How Law Enforcement Has Improved Over Time 20:07 Recruitment Staffing and the Future of the Profession 25:07 Officer Trauma Secondary Trauma and Mental Health 27:33 The Complexity of Modern Law Enforcement 31:26 Leading Montana’s Division of Criminal Investigation 33:38 Major Cases Politics and Public Safety Priorities 35:56 Building Effective Teams and Protecting the Mission 37:19 Career Highlights Montana and Public Perception 41:34 The Unique Challenges of Law Enforcement in Montana 44:52 Transitioning from Law Enforcement to City Management 49:29 Organizational Assessments Communication and Leadership Health 54:39 Bryan’s Advice for Future Leaders Learn more about Bryan Lockerby and Lockerby Leadership Group: https://bryanlockerby.com/ Services: https://bryanlockerby.com/services/ The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

In this episode of The Clear Voice, James Groom is joined by Joseph Lujan, author of Reflective Resonance, A Quiet Spark Approach to Authentic Leadership, and creator of the CAMP OUT Method. Joseph shares his perspective on authentic leadership, generational change in the workplace, employee motivation, and the importance of leaders staying consistent, self aware, and emotionally present. The conversation explores how workplace culture has shifted since COVID, why autonomy and trust matter, and why leaders must be willing to reflect on their own influence before trying to improve the people around them. Joseph also discusses his background in county probation, federal probation, and leadership, explaining how working with people under supervision shaped his understanding of human behavior. He shares practical lessons about individualizing leadership, building trust, avoiding robotic communication, and helping employees feel seen, valued, and heard. The episode also breaks down Joseph’s CAMP OUT Method, which focuses on consistency, authenticity, mindfulness, purpose, optimizing leadership, upshifting, and transforming leadership practices. These concepts provide a practical framework for leaders who want to grow, strengthen their teams, and create healthier workplace cultures. Joseph’s final takeaway is simple but important. Leaders need to show up authentically and genuinely. Employees notice more than leaders sometimes realize, and the way leaders communicate, respond, and carry themselves can shape the culture around them. Resources Reflective Resonance Website https://www.reflectiveresonance.org/ Reflective Resonance Worksheets https://www.reflectiveresonance.org/documents/ Reflective Resonance Book https://a.co/d/0fZNrEGQ Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction to Reflective Resonance and Authentic Leadership 00:02:47 Workplace Culture After COVID 00:05:20 Autonomy, Trust, and Accountability 00:07:32 Employee Motivation and Finding Purpose 00:10:05 Joseph Lujan’s Leadership Journey 00:12:53 Emotional Intelligence and Human Behavior 00:15:12 Common Leadership Failures 00:17:43 The Story Behind Reflective Resonance 00:22:11 Consistency in Leadership 00:24:14 Authenticity and Effective Leadership 00:25:31 Mindfulness in Leadership Communication 00:28:54 Purposeful Leadership and the Why 00:31:09 Optimizing Leadership Through Reflection 00:33:35 Upshift and Transform 00:36:15 Continuous Growth and Feedback 00:39:21 Final Takeaway, Showing Up Authentically The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

Mayor Alejandro Flores from Los Fresnos, Texas joins The Clear Voice for a PositionCast™ focused on the City Manager opportunity there. Los Fresnos is a growing South Texas community with strong local identity, respected schools, regional access, and major opportunities ahead. In this episode, Mayor Flores discusses his connection to the community, the City Council’s priorities, the organization, and the type of leader who can be successful in the role. The conversation highlights responsible growth, infrastructure planning, budget management, communication with council, staff relationships, community involvement, and the importance of preserving the close community feel that makes Los Fresnos special. Kent Myers, the recruiter for this search, also provides context for candidates. He discusses the stability of the organization, the strength of the existing staff team, the long tenure of the outgoing city manager, and the opportunity for the next City Manager to help guide the city through meaningful growth. This PositionCast™ is designed to help prospective candidates better understand the community, the organization, the role, the City Council’s expectations, and the leadership fit needed in Los Fresnos. This role can be found at https://clearcareerpro.com/clear-news/los-fresnos-city-manager-posting Chapters 00:00:00 Cold Open: Why Candidates Should Look at Los Fresnos 00:00:36 Introduction to the City Manager PositionCast 00:02:07 Mayor Alejandro Flores and His Connection to Los Fresnos 00:04:56 Leadership, Stewardship, and Council Priorities 00:08:34 Communication, Onboarding, and Early Expectations 00:10:27 City Services, Staff Leadership, and Organizational Culture 00:13:02 Community Growth, Schools, and Falcon Pride 00:18:11 Local Events, Culture, and Quality of Life 00:20:40 South Padre Island, Outdoor Life, and Regional Access 00:23:35 Infrastructure, Development, and Budget Priorities 00:26:32 Ideal Candidate Qualities and Leadership Fit 00:28:17 Kent Myers on Why This Opportunity Stands Out 00:34:28 Application Process, Candidate Communication, and Closing Thoughts The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

Jim Devlin joins James Groom for Part 1 of a 2 part conversation on leadership, accountability, culture, and the move from Police Chief to City Hall. Jim serves as Assistant City Manager for the City of Hewitt, Texas, after nearly three decades in law enforcement, including more than a decade as Chief of Police. In this episode, he discusses dynamic leadership, correcting people without tearing them down, building trust inside an organization, and why culture matters in public service. The conversation also covers Jim’s decision to move to Hewitt, the challenge of helping reshape an organization, the value of community connection, and how police leadership can prepare someone for broader municipal leadership. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jim Devlin 02:39 Dynamic leadership in law enforcement 07:00 Accountability and relationships 10:20 Correcting people without tearing them down 16:55 Taking on the challenge in Hewitt 23:04 Building community trust 26:10 Succession planning and leadership development 29:04 Culture fit in recruitment 32:02 Problem solving in local government 35:33 Moving from police chief to city hall 40:51 Part 2 Coming Soon Announcement The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

The City of Caldwell, Texas is searching for its next City Administrator, and this PositionCast™ episode gives candidates a deeper look at the community, the organization, and the leadership expectations behind the role. James Groom, Host of The Clear Voice and Retired Chief of Police, is joined by Brad Stafford of Clear Career Professionals, outgoing Mayor Janice Easter, and incoming Mayor John Rychlik for a conversation about Caldwell’s future. The discussion covers Caldwell’s small town identity, growth pressures, downtown opportunity, infrastructure priorities, full service city operations, community partnerships, and the type of leader who can build trust with staff, council, residents, and regional partners. Caldwell is described as a close knit Texas community with strong civic pride, a growing local economy, a historic downtown, major community events, strong parks and recreation assets, and a council focused on responsible growth. The next City Administrator will enter an organization with meaningful opportunities in communication, modernization, infrastructure planning, economic development, and community engagement. This episode is especially useful for candidates who want to understand not just the job description, but the people, expectations, and leadership environment behind the opportunity. For more information about this role by check the job posting: https://clearcareerpro.com/clear-news/caldwell-city-administrator-posting The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

In this PositionCast™ episode of The Clear Voice, James Groom and Michael Boese talk with Debbie Munoz, Executive Director of the Texas Municipal Retirement System, about the Human Resources Director opportunity at TMRS. Debbie explains TMRS’ mission to provide secure lifetime income to members across 946 participating Texas cities, the organization’s statewide impact, and the culture that makes TMRS a meaningful place to work. The conversation covers the role of the next HR Director, including employee engagement, HR modernization, succession planning, learning management, leadership development, and the need for an authentic, people centered leader. The episode also highlights TMRS’ Austin location, compensation and benefits, TMRS retirement participation, the Clear Career Professionals recruitment process, and why this role offers a unique opportunity to support the people who serve public servants across Texas. More Information: For more information about the TMRS Human Resources Director position, including job details and application materials, visit: https://clearcareerpro.com/clear-news/tmrs-human-resources-director-posting Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction to TMRS and the Human Resources Director recruitment 00:03:21 Understanding TMRS, mission, structure, and statewide service 00:06:45 What makes TMRS unique for cities and members 00:11:47 TMRS funding, stability, and fiduciary responsibility 00:14:51 TMRS culture and employee engagement 00:19:14 The HR Director role, reporting structure, and team size 00:22:14 Rebranding HR and building employee trust 00:24:21 Modernizing HR systems, knowledge transfer, and AI 00:25:52 Training, continuing education, and learning management 00:26:16 Candidate traits, communication, and leadership presence 00:27:17 Why city HR leaders should consider TMRS 00:29:33 Measuring success for the next HR Director 00:32:25 Why this opportunity stands out 00:33:32 TMRS office location and working in Austin 00:34:55 Living in Austin and the community environment 00:37:33 Compensation, benefits, and TMRS retirement participation 00:40:06 The Clear Career Professionals recruitment process 00:41:37 Upcoming TMRS Governmental Relations Director recruitment 00:42:24 Sneak peek at the Governmental Relations Director role 00:45:29 Final message for candidates considering TMRS 00:47:12 Closing and how to learn more The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

Katie Hagen, CEO of CPS HR Consulting, joins Host of The Clear Voice James Groom and Clear Career Professionals President Michael Boese for a conversation about public sector HR, workforce challenges, organizational change, and the future of public service. Katie brings decades of public sector leadership experience, including senior roles in California state government, where she worked in HR, civil service reform, organizational turnaround, and change management. In this episode, she discusses why hiring challenges are often about more than salary, how agencies can reduce barriers for applicants, why professional development still matters, and how public organizations can use technology without losing the human side of human resources. James and Michael join Katie to explore recruitment, candidate communication, civil service systems, organizational assessments, public sector partnerships, and the importance of helping agencies move forward before problems become crises. Topics include public sector HR, workforce challenges, hiring barriers, candidate experience, salary and flexibility, public service motivation, organizational turnaround, change management, civil service systems, AI, technology, professional development, organizational assessments, workforce planning, internships, apprenticeships, and keeping people at the center of public service. Learn more about CPS HR Consulting: https://www.cpshr.us/ Learn more about Katie Hagen: https://www.cpshr.us/katie-hagen/ Contact Katie Hagen: [email protected] 00:00 Introduction to Public Sector Challenges 03:58 Understanding Hiring Challenges in the Public Sector 06:28 Generational Perspectives on Public Service 08:48 Katie Hagen's Journey in HR and Leadership 11:03 Leading Change in Public Sector Organizations 13:29 The Political Landscape of Public Sector Leadership 15:55 CPS HR Consulting and Public Sector HR Solutions 17:50 Maintaining Culture Across a Remote Team 20:14 Current Trends in Public Sector Recruitment 22:47 Building Talent Pipelines for the Future Workforce 25:10 Streamlining the Hiring Process for Applicants 26:48 Candidate Communication and Modern Recruitment 29:49 The Role of Technology in Public Sector HR 32:18 Balancing AI and Human Interaction in HR 34:29 Understanding Organizational Dynamics Before Acting 36:55 Finding Simple Solutions to Complex Problems 39:36 Professional Development for HR Leaders 41:55 The Future of the Public Sector Workforce 43:25 Organizational Assessments Before Crisis 43:39 Employee Development in a Technology Driven Workplace 44:54 Basic Technology Skills Still Matter 46:12 TMHRA, CPS HR, and Public Sector Partnerships 47:42 Final Advice for Public Service Leaders The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

The City of Victoria, Texas is recruiting its next Deputy City Manager, and this PositionCast™ episode gives candidates a closer look at the opportunity, the organization, and the leadership environment. James Groom, Host of The Clear Voice, is joined by Kelly Kuenstler, retired city manager and recruiter for this position, and Jesús Garza, City Manager for the City of Victoria. Together, they discuss why Victoria is creating this Deputy City Manager role, what the City needs from the successful candidate, and why this opportunity may appeal to experienced local government executives. Victoria is a regional hub of approximately 65,000 residents, located between San Antonio, Houston, Austin, and Corpus Christi. The community offers a strong mix of big city amenities and small town character, with retail, restaurants, outdoor recreation, access to the Guadalupe River, and proximity to the Texas coast. A major theme of this episode is stability. Victoria operates under a council manager form of government, with a seven member City Council that includes the Mayor. City Manager Jesus Garza describes a governing environment marked by alignment, professionalism, and a shared focus on the entire community. That stability matters for candidates who want to join an organization where elected officials, staff, and the public are generally moving in the same direction. This Deputy City Manager role is designed to support continuity of progress. Victoria has seen recent internal promotions and leadership transitions, and the City is being intentional about strengthening executive capacity for the future. The position is not framed around finding one candidate who can do everything. Instead, Victoria is considering two clear candidate pathways. One pathway is for an experienced public safety leader. A candidate with this background may bring value in areas such as police, fire, municipal court, dispatch, emergency management, civil service, collective bargaining, and public safety operations. Victoria recently brought multiple public safety functions into a new 70,000 square foot public safety headquarters, creating new opportunities for coordination, collaboration, and strategic planning. The second pathway is for an experienced economic development or growth focused leader. A candidate with this background may help advance the City’s Growing Victoria initiative, support population and tax base growth, strengthen the use of the City’s Type B economic development corporation, and help move major strategic priorities forward. Victoria is not requiring candidates to have both public safety and economic development experience. Either pathway may be the right fit. The goal is to find an experienced executive who complements the existing leadership team and brings depth, judgment, and leadership capacity in one of these key areas. The episode also covers Victoria’s full service municipal operations, including water, wastewater, landfill services, residential trash collection, tourism, public safety, parks, infrastructure, and other core city functions. The City has 656 authorized full time employees and a fiscal year 2026 operating budget of approximately $255 million. Candidates will also hear about Victoria’s workplace culture, employee retention efforts, new public safety investments, strategic planning, master planning, infrastructure work, downtown improvements, parks improvements, and the Victoria 2035 comprehensive plan. Jesus also discusses his leadership style, which he describes as mission driven, transformational, and focused on developing the next generation of leaders. For candidates preparing for the interview process, the advice is straightforward. Do the research. Victoria has major plans, priorities, and investments already in motion. Candidates who understand the community, the organization, and the opportunity will be better prepared to show how their experience can help Victoria continue its momentum. Learn more about the Victoria Deputy City Manager opportunity here: https://clearcareerpro.com/clear-news/victoria-deputy-city-manager-opportunity The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

In this episode of The Clear Voice, James Groom and Michael Boese talk with Darren Mann, leadership coach, speaker, and author of Rise Above Routine. Darren shares lessons from his project management career, early leadership failures, and transition into coaching. The conversation covers daily leadership habits, asking for help, mentoring, building support systems, servant leadership, failure friendly cultures, and the importance of communication that actually connects with people. Connect with Darren Mann: https://dmanncoaching.com/ https://dmanncoaching.com/rise-above-routine-ebook https://www.linkedin.com/in/manndarren/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 02:16 Darren Mann’s Career Journey and Transition to Coaching 05:18 Managing Life Like a Project and Setting Clear Goals 07:28 Daily Habits for Leadership Growth 10:20 Learning from Failure and Using It to Grow 12:23 Promoting Top Performers Into Leadership Roles 15:12 Support Systems, Mentorship, and Leadership Blind Spots 17:32 Acceptable Failure Versus Repeated Mistakes 18:43 Sharing Failure to Build Trust and Resilience 22:16 Core Concepts from Rise Above Routine 24:30 Consistency and Building Leadership Habits 26:37 Asking for Help and Overcoming Fear of Rejection 28:42 Servant Leadership in Practice 32:42 John Maxwell’s Rule of Five and Daily Leadership Practices 34:32 Communication, Connection, and Being Heard 37:02 Public Service Leadership and Rising Above Routine 38:23 Final Advice for Leaders Feeling Stuck The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

In this episode of The Clear Voice, host James Groom sits down with Sam Toles, founder of CiviSocial, to discuss why local government social media is failing and how agencies can rebuild trust through modern communication strategies. With experience in both public office and digital media leadership, Sam explains why traditional approaches like polished graphics and static posts no longer resonate in today’s fast-moving, video-driven environment. The conversation focuses on a shift toward authentic, human-centered content, what Sam calls “neighbors serving neighbors.” Instead of institutional messaging, agencies must show real employees doing real work in simple, unscripted ways. This approach not only builds trust but also improves engagement and strengthens recruitment in a competitive hiring environment. Sam also breaks down platform strategy, why Facebook should no longer be the primary focus for most local government organizations, and how agencies can move beyond the negativity of the same small group of critics by creating shareable content that reaches the broader community. Connect with Sam Toles LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samtoles1/ Website: https://civisocial.com Social Media Playbook: https://civisocial.com/the-social-media-playbook The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

When a school district prepares for a bond election, they aren't just asking for funding; they are asking for community trust. In an era of strict legislative oversight, accidental planning can sink a project before it starts. Host James Groom and co-host James Hopper (retired superintendent) sit down with Derek Bird (Director of Operations, Central Texas for AG|CM) and Jason Burdine (Texas education leader) to break down the "Two-Year Runway" for successful planning. The Superintendent’s Burden: The 75% Rule James Hopper introduces the 75% Rule: Without an Owner’s Representative, a superintendent will spend 75% of their time managing construction instead of education. A professional Owner’s Rep handles the high-stakes paperwork so leadership can stay focused on students. The Two-Year Runway: Planning vs. Reacting Successful bonds aren't built in a semester. Derek Bird recommends a 24-month planning cycle to address: Legislative Compliance: Navigating the Attorney General’s guidelines and Senate Bill 843. Facility Assessments: Identifying true infrastructure needs (HVAC, roofs) over "wants." Long-Range Strategy: Planning for fast-growth districts without sacrificing build quality. Engineering Public Trust through Transparency Jason Burdine explains that you can’t sell a "cure" (the bond) until the community is convinced of the "disease" (aging infrastructure). The Naysayer Strategy: Invite your biggest critics to the Community Advisory Committee. Site Visits: Let skeptics see outdated facilities firsthand to turn vocal opponents into informed stakeholders. Education over Advocacy: Bridging the gap on how schools are funded (M&O vs. I&S). What Does an Owner’s Rep Actually Do? Unlike architects or contractors, the Owner’s Rep has 100% loyalty to the district. Audit and Oversight: Verifying that the work in place matches the billing for 20+ subcontractors. Cost Control: Escalating budgets for 2-3 years out to mitigate inflation and supply chain volatility. Staff Augmentation: Providing scalable expertise without the need for permanent full-time hires. The Future Landscape: Declining Birth Rates As birth rates shift, many districts are pivoting from new construction to maintenance and consolidation. Using facility assessments ensures existing roofs and HVAC systems are prioritized for the long term. The Clearly Exceptional Finish The link between facilities and the classroom is undeniable. When you tie facility needs to student achievement, you show the community that the investment is about the kids, not just brick and mortar. Resources and Connections Official Website: AG|CM Project Management LinkedIn: AG|CM, Inc. on LinkedIn Timestamps 00:00 Introduction: School Bonds and the 75% Rule 02:51 The 10-Year Plan: Why Bonds Fail Without a Runway 06:05 Building Community Trust Before Asking for Funding 09:29 Transparency: Convincing the Community of the Need 13:38 Engaging the Naysayers: Advisory Committee Strategy 16:19 Linking Bricks and Mortar to Student Achievement 17:40 Why Superintendents Can't Be Project Managers 18:57 Quick Wins: Delivering Results in the First 60 Days 22:11 The Owner's Rep: Who is Actually on Your Side? 25:56 SB 843 and the New Landscape of Bond Transparency 29:59 Social Media and Modern Bond Communication 33:53 Declining Birth Rates: When Bonds Mean Consolidation 37:42 Final Thoughts: Invigorating Teachers and Students The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

Odessa, Texas is hiring two Assistant City Attorneys, and this PositionCast™ episode of The Clear Voice takes you inside the opportunity. Host James Groom is joined by recruiter Kelly Kuenstler, Odessa City Manager Aaron Smith, and City Attorney James Parker to walk through the structure, expectations, and day to day reality of these roles inside a large and growing West Texas organization. Odessa operates under a council manager form of government with a highly engaged council that understands its role and trusts staff to lead. That structure creates a stable environment where legal professionals can focus on advising and execution, not internal friction. The legal department is built around a partnership model. Attorneys are expected to help departments accomplish objectives within the law, not act as gatekeepers. The focus is on finding compliant paths forward and supporting progress across the organization. These positions offer broad exposure to municipal law with flexibility to develop specialized interests over time. Attorneys may work across land use, zoning, public safety, procurement, and general advisory work while building depth in areas that align with their strengths. The role requires both proactive and reactive legal work. Attorneys are expected to identify issues early while also responding to real time challenges across a complex organization. Odessa’s municipal court handles approximately 2,200 cases annually. The city operates with roughly 1,000 employees and a budget in the $330 million range, serving a regional population that functions closer to 200,000. Leadership within the legal department emphasizes teaching, autonomy, and professional growth. Attorneys are given responsibility, encouraged to make decisions, and supported through the learning process in a collaborative environment. For candidates, the key question is simple, why municipal law. This opportunity is designed for attorneys who want to learn, grow, and directly impact how a city operates and serves its community. To learn more or apply, visit clearcareerpro.com under Career Opportunities. The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

Certainly a lot to unpack as we feature three amazing opportunities from Ruidoso, New Mexico. Ruidoso is entering a defining moment. In this PositionCast™ episode of The Clear Voice, Mayor Lynn Crawford and City Manager Ron Sena join recruiter Kelly Kuenstler and Host James Groom to outline three critical leadership roles that will help shape the future of the Village of Ruidoso. This is more than a recruitment. It is an opportunity to step into a community that is rebuilding, growing, and positioning itself for long-term success after significant challenges. A Community at a Turning Point Ruidoso is a small mountain community with big aspirations. Located in the Lincoln National Forest at elevations between 6,500 and 12,000 feet, the Village blends natural beauty with a tourism-driven economy. It serves as a destination for both weekend visitors and long-term seasonal residents, particularly from Texas. Recent years have brought major challenges, including wildfires and flooding that destroyed over 1,300 homes. In response, the Village has secured substantial federal and state funding and is now actively rebuilding infrastructure, housing, and long-term resilience systems. At the same time, Ruidoso is advancing major initiatives, including a $145 million green energy project, expansion of the regional airport, and hosting international events such as Ironman and XTERRA. This is not a maintenance phase. This is transformation. The Opportunities Three director-level roles are open, each playing a critical role in the Village’s future. Economic Development Director Newly created position reporting to the City Manager. Focused on business recruitment, strategic growth, and long-term economic planning. Expected to grow into a larger department over time. Chief Financial Officer Oversees a $152 million budget and finance team. Critical role in grant management, audits, and maintaining the Village’s strong financial standing. Water Resources Director Highly specialized role overseeing water rights, conservation, and long-term sustainability. Works closely with technical experts and operations teams. Leadership Culture and Expectations Ruidoso operates with a high-performance, team-oriented culture. Leadership expectations include collaboration across departments, transparency with elected officials and the public, responsiveness to residents, and the ability to operate in a fast-paced environment. The organization emphasizes hiring strong people, providing support, and allowing them to lead. Departments are expected to work together, not in silos. What Candidates Should Know This is a small town environment with big responsibilities. Candidates should understand the Village’s recovery from fires and floods, review key planning documents, and be prepared for a tourism-driven workload that includes seasonal demands. This is local government at its most direct. Your work will have a visible impact on the community. Why Ruidoso Ruidoso offers the opportunity to build a meaningful career in a place where leadership matters. It is a community where you can see the results of your work, be part of a close-knit team, and help shape the future during a critical period of growth and recovery. The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

Episode Summary What does it take to develop strong leaders in local government, and why do so many high performers struggle when they move into leadership roles? In this episode of The Clear Voice, James Groom, Clear Vice President and Host of The Clear Voice, is joined by Michael Boese, President of Clear Career Professionals, for a conversation with LaShon Ross, Deputy City Manager for the City of Plano, Texas. With more than 30 years of experience in municipal government, LaShon shares practical insight on leadership development, accountability, and the human side of managing organizations that serve the public. The conversation explores the transition from individual contributor to supervisor, the importance of coaching and difficult conversations, and why technical competence alone is not enough to lead effectively. LaShon also discusses how local governments can strengthen leadership pipelines, improve organizational culture, and better prepare the next generation of public servants. From accountability beyond the spreadsheet to communication, mentorship, and self awareness, this episode provides a clear and practical look at leadership in today’s public sector. Key Topics Leadership development in local government Why high performers struggle in supervisory roles Coaching and difficult conversations Accountability in municipal government Human capital challenges in local government Communication and leadership effectiveness Mentorship and leadership growth About LaShon Ross LaShon Ross is the Deputy City Manager for the City of Plano, Texas, with more than three decades of experience in local government. She has served in key leadership roles including Human Resources Director and Deputy City Manager, with responsibility for organizational development, employee relations, and executive leadership support. After retiring from Plano in 2016, she worked as a professional development facilitator and leadership trainer before returning to the City of Plano in 2022 as Director of Human Resources and Risk Management. She was appointed Deputy City Manager again in 2023. Her work focuses on leadership development, organizational culture, and helping individuals understand their value beyond their work accomplishments. Leadership Takeaways Strong leadership requires more than technical ability. Leaders must be able to manage people, navigate conflict, and communicate effectively across an organization. High performers are often promoted without being prepared for leadership, which can create challenges for both the individual and the organization. Intentional leadership development and coaching are critical to long term success. Accountability in local government extends beyond financial oversight. It includes decision making, communication, and alignment with organizational values and community expectations. Difficult conversations are a necessary part of leadership. Avoiding them can lead to performance issues and reduced trust within teams. Why This Episode Matters Local governments are facing increasing demands while managing workforce challenges and evolving expectations from their communities. Developing strong leaders at every level is essential to maintaining effective, responsive organizations. This episode provides practical insight for professionals looking to grow into leadership roles and for organizations working to build stronger teams. The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

In this episode of The Clear Voice, James Groom is joined by Chief Carrie Ellis, a law enforcement leader with more than three decades of experience and the author of Ma’am In Command. Chief Ellis currently serves as the Chief of Police at Central Texas College and was recently sworn in as President of the Texas Police Chiefs Association, becoming only the second woman to hold that position in roughly thirty years. This conversation explores the realities women face in law enforcement, but more importantly, the practical leadership lessons required to reach command positions. While the book is written with women in mind, much of the guidance applies to anyone pursuing executive leadership in policing. The discussion also expands beyond policing to examine how police chiefs, city managers, and elected officials influence organizational culture, recruitment, and leadership development inside departments. Chief Ellis shares her journey into law enforcement, the barriers she encountered, and the mindset required to overcome them. She also discusses the 30×30 initiative and what agencies are getting right, and where more work is needed to build sustainable leadership pipelines. This episode is a must listen for police executives, city managers, and anyone interested in leadership development within local government. Key Topics • Why Chief Ellis wrote Ma’am In Command and the gap it fills in leadership development • The reality of women in law enforcement and leadership roles • Practical advice for officers pursuing command positions • The importance of listening to understand in leadership • Cultural barriers inside police organizations and how they develop • What police chiefs can do to support leadership growth • The role of city managers and elected officials in shaping police culture • Chief Ellis’ leadership as President of the Texas Police Chiefs Association • Leadership lessons that apply beyond law enforcement Leadership Insights Leadership is built over time, not in a single moment Chief Ellis describes her path as a series of experiences that shaped how she leads, rather than a single defining event. Listening is one of the most critical leadership skills Leaders must listen to understand, not just to respond, in order to build trust and develop their teams. Leadership culture starts at the top The approach of the chief directly influences recruitment, retention, and advancement opportunities within a department. Confidence and mindset are critical to advancement Future leaders must push past doubt, avoid perfection paralysis, and take action even when conditions are not ideal. Resources 🔗 Ma’am In Command https://www.amazon.com/Maam-Command-Guide-Aspiring-Positions/dp/B0GFT6889N The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

In Episode #52 of The Clear Voice, Marty Schmitt, President and CEO of AGCM, and Kendra Hickman, Director of Operations for AGCM South Texas, join the show to discuss what it actually takes to deliver successful public sector projects. They are joined by Michael Boese, President of Clear Career Professionals, and James Groom, Host of The Clear Voice. From city facilities and infrastructure to school district bond programs, public sector leaders are often responsible for multimillion dollar projects without having the time, staff, or technical expertise to manage every detail. Even when leaders do everything right, projects can still fall behind schedule, exceed budgets, and create significant pressure from elected officials and the community. This episode explores the real reasons projects fail and what separates successful outcomes from costly setbacks. Marty and Kendra break down the critical role of communication, stakeholder alignment, and trust in project delivery. They explain how breakdowns between architects, contractors, and municipalities lead to delays, change orders, and finger pointing, and why those issues are often preventable with the right structure in place. The conversation also highlights the value of owner’s representation in the public sector. Rather than designing or building projects, an owner’s representative serves as an extension of the municipality, providing unbiased oversight, protecting budgets, managing schedules, and ensuring that the final product meets the expectations of both leadership and the community. Key topics include: • Why communication failures are the root cause of most project breakdowns • The hidden risks city managers, finance directors, and department heads take on during major projects • How early stakeholder alignment can prevent costly changes later • The financial risks associated with billing, change orders, and contract oversight • The difference between public and private sector project delivery • Why successful projects often feel “invisible” when done correctly • The real cost of trying to manage complex projects without dedicated support This episode is designed for city managers, assistant city managers, public works directors, finance directors, school district leaders, and elected officials who are responsible for delivering capital projects in their communities. Whether you are preparing for a major project or currently managing one, this conversation provides practical insight into reducing risk, improving outcomes, and protecting public trust. AGCM LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ag-cm-inc-/ AGCM Website: https://www.agcm.com/ The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

Marshall, TX City Manager Recruitment | PositionCast™ Marshall, Texas is at a pivotal moment. In this PositionCast™ episode of The Clear Voice, Mayor Amy Ware joins Clear Career Professionals Vice President and recruiter and Retired City Manager Brad Stafford along with Host, James Groom, to provide a detailed look at the City Manager opportunity in Marshall. This conversation goes beyond the job brochure to explore the leadership expectations, community culture, and real opportunities for impact. Marshall offers a rare combination of historic character and forward-looking growth. With major infrastructure investments, strong institutional partnerships, and a supportive governing body, this role presents a chance to lead meaningful, visible progress in a community ready to move forward. About the Opportunity The City Manager in Marshall will step into a role with both stability and momentum. The City is investing in core infrastructure, including major water and wastewater system upgrades, while also expanding quality of life initiatives such as parks, recreation, and community facilities. Key focus areas include: Infrastructure modernization, especially water and wastewater systems Economic development and retail expansion Building code updates and long-term planning Parks, recreation, and community amenities Strengthening regional and institutional partnerships This is a hands-on leadership role with the ability to influence multiple facets of the organization and community. What Makes Marshall, Texas Unique Marshall is located in Northeast Texas, approximately two hours east of Dallas, and offers a distinct blend of small-town accessibility and regional connectivity. Highlights include: Population of approximately 25,000 with a strong community identity Proximity to major highways including I-20 and future I-69 corridor Diverse local economy including healthcare, education, retail, and industry Four higher education institutions, creating strong workforce pipelines Affordable cost of living with flexible housing options The community maintains a welcoming culture while continuing to attract new residents and investment. Leadership Profile The ideal candidate is not just an administrator, but a visible and engaged leader. Key traits for success: Strong community presence and relationship-building ability Comfort engaging with civic groups, schools, and local organizations Transparency and responsiveness, especially during challenges Ability to balance tradition with forward-thinking leadership Commitment to communication and public trust This is a role for someone who wants to be part of the community. Community and Organizational Strengths Marshall benefits from strong collaboration across organizations and institutions. Notable strengths include: Supportive and aligned City Council Strong partnerships with schools, colleges, and workforce programs Active economic development efforts Regional cooperation with county and public safety partners High community engagement and civic pride The environment is cooperative, not siloed, allowing leaders to move initiatives forward more effectively. Why This Opportunity Stands Out This position offers a balance of operational leadership and strategic impact. Candidates will have the opportunity to: Lead major infrastructure investments that shape long-term growth Influence development patterns and community planning Build on an already engaged and supportive community foundation Deliver visible, meaningful results within a reasonable timeframe For the right leader, this is an opportunity to leave a lasting mark. How to Apply To learn more about this opportunity and apply: Career Opportunities: https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

Lufkin, Texas is Seeking a Director of Engineering! The City of Lufkin, Texas is at a pivotal moment, focused on steady, intentional growth and delivering tangible improvements that residents can see and experience every day. In this PositionCast™, Host of The Clear Voice and Retired Police Chief James Groom is joined by Retired City Manager and President of Clear Career Professionals, Michael Boese, Lufkin City Manager Kevin Gee, and Lufkin Assistant City Manager Brian Bray to break down the Director of Engineering opportunity designed with flexibility in mind. Whether you are an experienced public sector leader or a private sector engineer ready to step into management, this role can be tailored to fit your background and career goals. This is a hands-on leadership position with real impact. From infrastructure and utilities to downtown revitalization, parks, and long-range development planning, the Director of Engineering will play a central role in shaping Lufkin’s future. Beyond the work itself, Lufkin offers a unique quality of life. As a regional hub in East Texas, the city combines strong amenities, community events, and economic activity with a small-town feel and access to nature. The organization emphasizes collaboration, open communication, and a team-oriented culture where departments work together to solve problems and move projects forward. For engineers considering the move from private to public sector, this role offers something different. The work is not driven by the bottom line, but by service to the community. You can see the results of your work, experience them firsthand, and build a lasting legacy in one place. Compensation ranges from $110,000 to $150,000, with strong benefits including TMRS retirement, paid time off, and a focus on work-life balance. If you are looking for a role where you can lead, grow, and make a visible impact, this opportunity in Lufkin is worth exploring. To learn more or apply, visit: https://clearcareerprofessionals.applytojob.com/apply/0Ovg4DFK8x/Lufkin-Director-Of-Engineering/ The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

In this episode of The Clear Voice, we sit down with Andrew Weber, a Texas attorney and public policy leader focused on groundwater, water governance, and aquifer sustainability. Andrew is a partner at Kelly Hart and Hallman, where he leads the Austin office and chairs the firm’s Public Law practice, working at the intersection of law, policy, and government relations before the Texas Legislature and state agencies. He currently serves as President and Executive Director of the Trinity Edwards Springs Protection Association and President of Friends of Wimberley Parks, where his work centers on groundwater protection and regional water stewardship. Earlier in his career, Andrew served on the staff of the Texas Supreme Court and later as First Assistant Attorney General of Texas, giving him experience at the highest levels of state government before transitioning into nonprofit advocacy and water policy. In this conversation, we break down how groundwater conservation districts work, why Desired Future Conditions matter, and the growing challenges around data, modeling, and determining how much water is truly available. We also explore “white zones” where no groundwater districts exist, creating gaps in regulation and long-term planning. Andrew shares insight into ongoing litigation involving Aqua Texas, the role of private utilities, and the broader tension between development, property rights, and resource sustainability. The discussion also covers recent legislative activity, funding efforts, and what may be coming next for water policy in Texas and beyond. The episode closes with practical advice for city leaders, emphasizing the importance of requiring sustainable water sourcing before approving development and the growing need for informed, science-based decision making at the local level. Learn more: Andrew Weber: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-weber-61223217 Trinity Edwards Springs Protection Association: https://tespatexas.org/about/ Friends of Wimberley Parks: https://friendsofwimberleyparks.org/ Training resource mentioned in the episode: Hill Country Alliance Leadership and Environmental Training Program: https://hillcountryalliance.org/ The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

Leadership is often portrayed as vision, strategy, and motivation. But experienced leaders know there is another side. The difficult conversations, personnel decisions, and moments when doing the right thing carries real consequences for people and organizations. In this episode of The Clear Voice, host and Retired Police Chief James Groom sits down with Ron Ward, Amazon bestselling author of The Dirty Side of Leadership, executive coach, and founder of 4Ward Operations. Ron spent more than 26 years in federal service, including leadership roles within the United States Probation and Pretrial Services system and serving as Director of Training for the Federal Probation and Pretrial Services National Academy at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center. Ron shares how those experiences shaped his perspective on leadership and ultimately led to his book The Dirty Side of Leadership. The book focuses on the moments leaders rarely talk about openly, including difficult personnel decisions, managing internal conflict, and carrying the responsibility that comes with leadership authority. The conversation explores how leaders can prepare for those moments through scenario based leadership training, communication awareness, and executive coaching. Ron explains how many leadership problems stem from perception gaps, misunderstandings, and a lack of self awareness. Developing stronger communication skills and emotional awareness can help leaders navigate difficult situations while maintaining trust within their teams. James and Ron also discuss Ron’s podcast The Dirty Side of Leadership, which he co hosts with Kristin Sokoloff. Their show blends leadership lessons with storytelling and humor, creating an engaging format that explores the real challenges leaders face in their organizations. For leaders in municipal government, public safety, and executive leadership roles, this episode offers insight into the realities of leadership, the importance of communication and trust, and the mindset required to make difficult decisions when it matters most. Ron’s message throughout the episode is clear. Leadership is not defined by easy moments. It is defined by how leaders handle the difficult ones and whether they leave the organization better than they found it. Connect With Ron Ward Website https://4wardoperations.com/ Book The Dirty Side of Leadership https://www.amazon.com/Dirty-Side-Leadership-Management-Development/dp/1641117435/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0 Podcast The Dirty Side of Leadership https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dirty-side-of-leadership/id1676009249 Interview Skills to Land Your Dream Job https://ron-s-school-847d.thinkific.com/manage/courses/1741299 The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

Strong communities are built one life at a time, and at the center of every strong community are its kids. Episode 47 features Dena Petty, Founder and Director of Mentors Care, in conversation with host and Retired Police Chief James Groom. This episode explores how structured mentoring programs create measurable impact for at-risk students and strengthen schools, cities, and entire communities. Episode Summary Founded in Midlothian, Texas in 2009, Mentors Care connects students with consistent, caring adult mentors inside public high schools. What began as Dena Petty’s deeply personal journey through adversity has grown into a structured mentoring model now serving 23 high schools with documented outcomes. In this conversation, Dena shares how her childhood shaped the mission behind Mentors Care, why mentoring must be intentional and organized to succeed, and how measurable results demonstrate long-term community impact. Among students with a history of disciplinary referrals, 63 percent improved their behavior while in the program. Attendance rates have improved across participating campuses, and thousands of student outcries have been identified and addressed through consistent adult relationships. Key Topics Discussed • Mentoring at-risk students • Reducing disciplinary referrals and improving attendance • Community impact and workforce development • Why structured mentoring programs succeed • Mentoring inside public schools • Internal mentoring programs for employee retention and leadership development • The long-term economic and public safety impact of investing in youth About the Book and Launch Event Dena Petty’s new book, Collateral Hope, shares the deeply personal story behind Mentors Care and the adversity that shaped her mission. Through honest reflection and lived experience, the book highlights how resilience, faith, and the presence of caring mentors can alter the trajectory of a life. The official book launch event will take place: Thursday, March 12, 2026 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM Author Reading at 6:00 PM Wilson’s Seafood & Grill 322 E Avenue F Midlothian, Texas Purchase Collateral Hope on Amazon: https://www.mentors.care Dena Petty https://www.denapetty.com Wilson’s Seafood & Grill, Midlothian Texas https://wilsonsseafood.com 00:00 Mentoring and Strong Communities 09:35 Dena Petty’s Story and the Birth of Mentors Care 18:40 How Mentoring Works Inside Public Schools 27:04 Measurable Results and Student Success 33:50 The Book and Community Impact 36:45 How to Get Involved with Mentors Care The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

Assistant Chief of Police at Bridgeport, Texas PositionCast™ Are you exploring command-level law enforcement leadership opportunities or preparing for a future Chief of Police role? In this PositionCast™ episode of The Clear Voice, retired Chiefs of Police James Groom and Jeff Spivey sit down with Bridgeport Chief of Police Steve Stanford to discuss the newly created Assistant Chief of Police position in Bridgeport, Texas. Clear Career Professionals partners with cities to recruit Chiefs of Police, City Managers, Finance Directors, and other municipal executives across Texas and beyond. Our Police Chief search process is guided by retired chiefs with firsthand leadership experience. This episode provides direct insight into the department’s culture, leadership expectations, growth trajectory, and compensation structure so candidates can evaluate fit before applying. Bridgeport, located approximately 45 minutes northwest of the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex in Wise County, is experiencing significant residential growth, with projections that could potentially double the population within five to seven years. The city is preparing intentionally for that expansion. The Bridgeport Police Department is a 32-member agency with an 11-person leadership team. Bridgeport is building on a foundation of stability and momentum. It is a stable, community-supported department focused on preserving culture while scaling responsibly. Chief Steve Stanford describes his leadership approach as servant-driven and transformational, grounded in consistency, character, and competency. The Assistant Chief will support operational leadership, accreditation alignment, internal affairs oversight, budget development, and strategic planning as the department grows. Compensation includes a salary range of approximately 92,500 to 110,000, three weeks vacation at entry, certificate pay incentives, and participation in the Texas Municipal Retirement System with a two-to-one city match. Bridgeport offers a small-town feel with strong law enforcement support, access to Lake Bridgeport and outdoor recreation, and proximity to Denton and the greater DFW region without daily metro congestion. If you want to help shape a growing police department in a community that supports law enforcement, this opportunity deserves serious consideration. Apply here: https://clearcareerpro.com/assistant-chief-of-police-bridgeport-tx/ Chapter Markers 00:00 Introduction and PositionCast overview 00:48 Chief Stanford background and career path 04:42 Leadership philosophy and internal culture 07:18 Leadership team structure and expectations 12:22 Entering a tight-knit department 14:20 Community growth and Wise County expansion 18:55 Why the Assistant Chief role was created 22:48 Delegation, authority, and operational expectations 24:18 What success looks like in the first year 26:05 Living in Bridgeport, Texas 30:22 Compensation, benefits, and TMRS 33:58 Why leaders should consider applying 36:55 Final thoughts and closing The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

Building Strong Public Sector Teams with Cheree Bontrager How do Texas cities attract, hire, and retain strong executive leaders? In this episode of The Clear Voice, host and Retired Police Chief James Groom and Retired City Manager Michael Boese speak with veteran municipal Director of Human Resources Cheree Bontrager about municipal hiring strategy, executive interview preparation, retention, and building a workplace culture that attracts leadership talent. For councils preparing to hire a City Manager in Texas or organizations navigating municipal executive recruitment, this episode provides practical guidance from inside local government HR. Municipal Hiring and Executive Recruitment Cities across Texas are facing leadership pipeline challenges. Roles such as City Manager, Assistant City Manager, Finance Director, and HR Director require leadership readiness, not just technical qualifications. This episode covers: Current hiring challenges in municipal government Why executive roles are harder to fill How cities must market purpose and community impact Why candidates evaluate council dynamics and city culture Successful city manager recruitment depends on both process and workplace culture. Resume and Interview Preparation for Municipal Leaders For candidates pursuing executive roles in local government: Why hiring managers review resumes in about one minute Writing concise cover letters that explain employment gaps Ethical use of AI in professional applications Using the STAR method for behavioral interviews How to answer “Tell us about yourself” effectively Candidates are interviewing the city just as much as the city is interviewing them. Retention, Culture, and HR Partnership Recruitment does not end when the offer is signed. Why culture often drives retention more than compensation Building a positive workplace culture in city government How HR supports department heads and executive leaders The importance of mentorship in developing future city managers For any Texas municipal executive search, culture is often the deciding factor for top candidates. TMHRA and Professional Development Cheree also discusses the Texas Municipal Human Resources Association and its role in advancing municipal HR leadership across the state. Learn more about TMHRA education and certification programs here: https://tmhra.org/education/ Chapters 00:00 What HR Really Does in Local Government 03:03 Cheree’s Journey into Municipal Human Resources 04:30 Resume Tips and Writing Effective Cover Letters 10:57 Interview Preparation and the STAR Method 14:35 Answering “Tell Us About Yourself” and Standing Out 20:00 Remember, Candidates Are Interviewing the City Too 22:43 Council Dynamics and City Reputation Matter 24:11 Why Interview Skills Matter for Executive Leaders 25:13 Current Hiring Challenges in Municipal Government 27:11 Attracting Leadership Talent to Public Service 28:16 Marketing the Value of City Government Careers 29:53 Building a Positive Workplace Culture 30:31 Retention Strategies Beyond Compensation 31:53 How HR Supports Departments and Leadership 33:37 TMHRA, Certification, and Statewide HR Collaboration 37:14 Final Advice for City Managers and HR Professionals   The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

In this PositionCast™ episode of The Clear Voice, Host James Groom, Clear Vice President and Retired Police Chief, sits down with Mayor Jimbo Snyder of Morgan’s Point Resort, Texas, alongside Retired City Manager Kent Myers, Vice President at Clear Career Professionals, to provide a detailed look at the City Manager recruitment. Listeners gain direct insight into council expectations, organizational structure, leadership culture, and the real priorities facing the next City Manager. Morgan’s Point Resort is a residential lakeside community on Belton Lake in Central Texas, offering small town quality of life with access to modern amenities, regional healthcare, and nearby economic centers including Temple and Belton. The city operates with a lean team of approximately 35 employees, making this a highly visible and hands on executive leadership role. During the conversation, Mayor Snyder discusses governance philosophy, communication expectations, infrastructure needs, water supply considerations, staff development, and long term planning. The discussion highlights the importance of community engagement, organizational leadership, and strong council manager relationships in a small city environment. Retired City Manager Kent Meyers provides professional context on the recruitment process, compensation structure, candidate expectations, and what makes this opportunity competitive in the Texas municipal executive market. The episode also reflects Clear Career Professionals’ candidate focused recruiting approach, known as the Clear Way, emphasizing transparency, preparation, and professional guidance throughout the hiring process. Key topics covered in this episode include: • Texas City Manager recruitment • Texas city manager recruiter insights • Municipal executive search in Texas • Council manager form of government leadership • Infrastructure and strategic planning • Staff mentoring and organizational development • Small city executive leadership expectations • Quality of life in Central Texas communities This episode is especially valuable for City Managers, Assistant City Managers, and senior municipal executives seeking executive opportunities in Texas local government.   00:00 Introduction to Morgan's Point Resort and City Manager Role 03:51 Leadership Lessons from Military Experience 07:03 Council's Relationship with the City Manager 09:50 City Priorities for the Next Few Years 13:23 Mentoring and Developing City Staff 14:52 Software Transition Challenges 16:08 City's Financial Position and Debt Management 17:17 Community Volunteerism and Support 19:15 Community Expectations for the Next City Manager 20:34 The Role of a City Manager 21:47 Organizational Culture and Staff Dynamics 23:09 Community Vibe and Natural Beauty 25:23 Family Life and Community Amenities 26:56 Safety and Education in the Community 27:48 Challenges and Opportunities for Growth 28:27 Defining Success for the New City Manager 29:47 Key Takeaways for Candidates 32:33 Unique Characteristics of Morgan's Point Resort 35:32 Clear Career Professionals' Recruitment Process 37:41 Final Thoughts and Community Appeal Job Posting Apply Here: https://clearcareerpro.com/city-manager-mpr/ The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

Bobby Quinten, PCC, Founder of To A Better Place Executive Coaching, joins James Groom, Retired Chief of Police and Host of The Clear Voice, for a powerful conversation on executive coaching, emotional intelligence, work life balance, culture transformation, and sustainable leadership in both public and private sector organizations. With decades of experience in leadership development, nonprofit governance, and municipal advisory service, Bobby helps executives strengthen communication, performance, and organizational culture through strengths based leadership and intentional growth strategies. Executive Coaching vs Training vs Mentoring Executive coaching is not training and it is not mentoring. Bobby explains how coaching creates structured space for leaders to think differently, identify blind spots, and build intentional action plans. The most effective coaching sessions are client centered and solution driven, often leading to powerful “aha” moments that shift perspective and unlock momentum. Emotional Intelligence in Leadership Emotional intelligence is a foundational leadership competency. Leaders who fail to regulate emotions erode trust and credibility. This episode explores emotional regulation, active listening, vulnerability, and why mastering your emotional responses is critical for long term executive success. Work Life Balance and Burnout Burnout is common among high performers, especially city managers, department heads, and executive leaders. Bobby discusses how unmanaged ambition can shorten careers and why sustainable leadership requires intentional pacing, healthy modeling, and proactive stress management. Building Organizational Trust Trust cannot be established through policy or slogans. It is built through credibility, consistency, accountability, and human connection. Leaders who admit mistakes, listen actively, and respond with compassion create cultures that retain high performers and reduce burnout. Culture Change in Government and Business Culture transformation requires participation at every level, especially frontline supervisors and informal influencers. Leaders must assess the current state honestly, define a clear future vision, and involve ambassadors who will carry the culture forward beyond any single leader’s tenure. Strengths Based Leadership Rather than focusing primarily on weaknesses, high performing leaders identify and lean into their natural talents. Bobby discusses the impact of Clifton Strengths and how leveraging strengths increases engagement, motivation, and long term performance. Volunteer Leadership and Community Perspective Drawing from his experience in Kiwanis International and municipal advisory work, Bobby shares how community service broadens executive perspective. Leaders who step outside their organizational bubble gain insight that strengthens decision making and deepens community impact. Key Takeaways • Emotional intelligence drives leadership credibility • Active listening strengthens trust and team cohesion • Culture change requires involvement, not announcements • Leaders are often harder on themselves than others are Connect with Bobby Quinten Bobby Quinten, PCC Founder, To A Better Place Executive Coaching LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/bobbyquinten Email - https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

Episode 42 of The Clear Voice looks at a shift many public leaders are not planning for, the possibility that population growth cannot be assumed. Author and public policy researcher Bill King joins the show to discuss how changing demographics are reshaping the long-term outlook for cities, school districts, and public infrastructure. The conversation moves beyond theory and focuses on practical implications for capital planning, facilities, and financial strategy. King explains why growth has historically helped local governments manage debt, expand services, and plan for the future, and why that cushion may not be there in the decades ahead. For leaders making decisions about new schools, major roadway projects, utility expansion, and long-term bonds, this episode challenges the assumption that more people will always be coming. Topics include: • Why declining birth rates are changing long-term planning • The risk of overbuilding schools and infrastructure • Right-sizing versus expanding public systems • Repurposing existing facilities instead of adding capacity • The role immigration plays in U.S. demographic trends • What city managers, superintendents, and elected officials should be monitoring now This is not a panic discussion. It is a planning discussion. The focus is on aligning long-range public investment decisions with demographic reality rather than past growth patterns. Learn more from Bill King: Bill King's Blog, Data-Driven Discussion on Public Policy and Politics https://billkingblog.com/ Bill King's Book, Depopulation, Our New Demographics Reality https://www.amazon.com/Depopulation-Our-New-Demographics-Reality/dp/1965766641 Follow The Clear Voice and Clear Career Professionals for more conversations focused on leadership, governance, and the future of local government. #clearcareerprofessionals #theclearvoice #positioncast #podcast 00:00 Introduction to Depopulation and Demographics 03:18 The End of Assumed Growth 07:01 Aging Population and Its Implications 09:44 Global Demographic Divergence 13:09 Economic Implications of Declining Population 16:45 Local Impacts and Future Planning 22:06 Understanding Depopulation Trends 26:36 Adapting Infrastructure and Services 31:19 The Role of Technology in Future Planning 35:14 Demographic Monitoring and Policy Implications 40:11 Strategic Consolidation and Repurposing Assets 41:51 Outro and Thanks!     The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

Infrastructure problems rarely start the day a pipe breaks or a road fails. Most begin years earlier with decisions cities did not realize carried long term consequences. In this episode of The Clear Voice, Host James Groom and Clear Career Professionals President Michael Boese sit down with municipal engineer Craig Kerkhoff, Managing Partner at BHC, to discuss the infrastructure realities city leaders face but often cannot see coming. Craig explains what engineers regularly encounter once construction begins, hidden system deficiencies, aging infrastructure that was never mapped or evaluated, and the difficult conversations that follow when unexpected costs appear. The discussion covers growth pressure in smaller cities, why master planning matters, how political decision making intersects with engineering recommendations, and the truth about grants versus long term funding strategy. City managers, elected officials, and department leaders will gain insight into how infrastructure planning affects public safety, taxpayer dollars, and a community’s long term stability. This episode offers a practical look at what happens behind the scenes of roads, water systems, and utilities, and why proactive leadership matters long before something fails. About Craig Kerkhoff Craig Kerkhoff is the Managing Partner at BHC, an engineering firm serving municipalities across Texas. With more than 20 years of experience in municipal engineering, Craig works with cities to plan, design, and deliver infrastructure that supports long term community success. 🌐 BHC Website: https://www.bhcllp.com 📧 Craig Kerkhoff: https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

What does it take to lead municipal finance in one of the most economically dynamic regions in the United States? In this PositionCast™, James Groom,  Host of The Clear Voice, is joined by Kelly Kuenstler, Vice President with Clear Career Professionals, and Aaron Smith, City Manager of Odessa, Texas, to discuss the Chief Financial Officer opportunity with the City of Odessa. This conversation goes beyond a job posting and gives candidates a direct look at executive leadership expectations, organizational direction, and the financial complexity facing Odessa’s next CFO. Odessa operates in the heart of the Permian Basin, where oil and gas economic cycles influence municipal revenue, forecasting, and long term financial strategy. The CFO will oversee a 300 million dollar plus municipal budget environment, enterprise operations, financial planning, internal controls, debt management, audits, grants administration, and serve as a principal financial advisor to the City Manager and City Council. The role combines technical municipal finance expertise with executive level strategic leadership. Aaron Smith shares his servant leadership philosophy, discusses rebuilding organizational stability, strengthening council and staff trust, expanding grant capacity, and positioning Odessa to become a benchmark community for municipal finance best practices. Kelly Kuenstler provides insight into what the City is seeking in its next financial leader and how this role fits into Odessa’s broader executive team structure. Aaron also talks about quality of life in Odessa and West Texas, highlighting the strong sense of community, family friendly environment, and access to outdoor recreation. He mentions proximity to Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Big Bend National Park, and destinations in New Mexico, making Odessa appealing for leaders who value both professional impact and lifestyle balance. Candidates will gain clarity on executive team dynamics, expectations for communication with council, support for professional development, and the opportunity to help shape financial operations during a period of growth and organizational renewal. This episode is designed for municipal finance leaders, finance directors, assistant city managers, city managers, and public sector executives seeking high impact leadership roles in local government. Learn more and apply for the Chief Financial Officer position here https://clearcareerpro.com/chief-financial-officer-odessa-texas/ #ClearCareerProfessionals #TheClearVoice #PositionCast #MunicipalFinance #LocalGovernmentCareers #CityFinance #PublicSectorLeadership 00:00 Introduction to the CFO Position in Odessa 04:09 Aaron Smith's Journey to City Manager 05:53 Understanding the CFO Role and Responsibilities 09:25 Current Projects and Future Opportunities 10:38 Challenges Facing the New Finance Director 12:22 Community Engagement and Communication 13:40 Living in Odessa: A Personal Perspective 15:08 Impact of the Permian Basin on Odessa 16:43 Support for Professional Development 17:25 Final Thoughts for Applicants 18:08 Outro       The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

Episode #39 of The Clear Voice features Brad Stafford, retired City Manager and Vice President at Clear Career Professionals, in an honest and important conversation about city manager burnout, leadership stress, and mental health in local government. Brad is joined by Kelly Kuenstler, Vice President at Clear Career Professionals and former city and county manager, along with James Groom, Host of The Clear Voice and public sector leader. After 28 years serving as a City Manager, Brad Stafford shares the personal and professional realities that led him to step away from city management, not because he stopped caring, but because the cumulative weight of the job finally caught up with him. His experience reflects what many local government executives face but rarely discuss publicly. This episode explores the long term impact of constant crisis response, political pressure, public scrutiny, and the expectation that city managers must always be steady, available, and composed for everyone else. Brad Stafford discusses how burnout does not happen overnight. It builds through years of council meetings, community demands, staff oversight, emergency situations, and major events such as COVID and severe weather crises. Over time, the pace, responsibility, and emotional load can erode even the most committed public servant. James Groom guides the conversation toward the human side of leadership in municipal government, highlighting how leaders often take care of everyone else while neglecting their own well being. Kelly Kuenstler adds perspective from her experience in local government recruitment and executive leadership, emphasizing how widespread stress and burnout have become in city administration. Listeners will hear Brad Stafford describe the moment he realized something had changed. The work that once energized him no longer felt sustainable. He talks about identity and leadership, and how serving as a City Manager for decades can become deeply tied to who you are as a person. Letting go of that role can feel like losing part of yourself, yet recognizing the need to step away is also a form of leadership. Key topics in this episode include city manager burnout in local government, leadership stress in high responsibility public service roles, mental health challenges for city managers and executive leaders, the impact of politics and public meetings on administrators, the pressure of being on call at all times, and the challenge of balancing professional responsibility with family and personal well being. The conversation also covers the importance of peer networks, professional associations, and how councils and communities can better support their city manager and department heads. Brad Stafford emphasizes peer support, family support, and professional networks such as state and regional city management associations. He explains that many leaders struggle in silence because of stigma or the belief that they must always appear strong. By sharing his story, he hopes to help other city managers, assistant city managers, and department directors recognize early warning signs and feel less alone. This episode of The Clear Voice is especially relevant for City Managers, Assistant City Managers, Department Directors, municipal executives, elected officials, and anyone working in local government leadership. It also offers valuable perspective for city councils and community members who want to understand the human side of the city manager role. Behind every agenda packet, policy decision, and public meeting is a person carrying significant responsibility. The Clear Voice podcast, produced in partnership with Clear Career Professionals, highlights leadership, careers in local government, and the people behind public service. Episode #39 adds an important discussion about sustainability in leadership and protecting the well being of those who serve communities every day. Listen to Episode 39 of The Clear Voice to hear Brad Stafford, Kelly Kuenstler, and James Groom discuss burnout in city management, leadership stress, and mental health in public service. 00:00 Introduction to City Management and Burnout 02:27 Personal Experiences with Burnout 05:19 The Impact of COVID-19 on City Managers 07:36 Strategies for Preventing Burnout 10:07 The Role of City Councils in Supporting Managers 12:25 Mental Health Awareness in City Management 15:00 Peer Support and Resources for City Managers 17:25 Professional Development and Resilience Training 20:11 Civility and Stress in Municipal Government 22:40 Recommendations for Reducing Burnout 25:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

In this episode of The Clear Voice, host James Groom is joined by Clear Career Professionals President Michael Boese to welcome Max Fisher, a recent Texas Tech Master of Public Administration graduate and emerging local government professional. Together, they explore what the next generation of public service looks like and how cities can build stronger leadership pipelines. Max shares his journey from considering law school to discovering a passion for city management, policy development, and community impact. He reflects on the transition from classroom theory to real world municipal leadership and how early career experiences in West Texas shaped his understanding of public administration. The discussion highlights the gap between academic preparation and daily City Hall operations, and why hands on learning remains essential for emerging leaders. Michael Boese adds perspective from his work recruiting city managers, finance directors, and department leaders across Texas, particularly in West Texas communities that are building the future of municipal government. He emphasizes the role of mentorship, culture, and personal connection in helping young professionals find the right community and the right first opportunity. The conversation explores how technology is changing government work while face to face relationships still drive effective leadership. Max discusses internships, early exposure to local government, and how cities can connect with students at the high school and college level to introduce careers in public administration, public works, utilities, and municipal finance. This episode examines the leadership pipeline facing communities across Texas and the nation. Topics include workforce development, the role of MPA programs, attracting young professionals to municipal careers, and preparing for assistant city manager and city manager roles while staying grounded in humility and service. If this conversation resonates with you, follow The Clear Voice on your favorite podcast platform and connect with Clear Career Professionals on LinkedIn for ongoing discussions about leadership and local government careers. You can also explore current municipal opportunities through our career portal to find places where your skills can make a real community impact. The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

This PositionCast™ episode of The Clear Voice focuses on the City Manager search for Nederland, Texas. Clear Voice Host James Groom is joined by Michael Boese, President of Clear Career Professionals, and James Hopper, Vice President of Clear Career Professionals, along with special guest Mayor Jeff Darby of Nederland to discuss the expectations and opportunities for the next City Manager. The conversation provides direct insight into the priorities shaping Nederland’s future, including renewal of aging infrastructure, grant development and outside funding, emergency management readiness along the Gulf Coast, and the importance of strong relationships with employees, residents, and regional industry partners. Mayor Darby explains the leadership qualities the City Council values most, open communication, humility, visibility in the community, and collaboration with represented police and fire professionals. President Michael Boese reviews the recruitment process, salary range, and benefits, while Vice President James Hopper highlights the professional and leadership competencies that will help a new City Manager succeed in a complex Southeast Texas environment. Host James Groom guides the discussion to ensure candidates hear practical perspectives about culture, priorities, and the day to day realities of the role. Nederland offers highly rated schools, proximity to Houston, access to Gulf Coast amenities, and a stable economic base supported by major energy investment. The next City Manager will play a critical role in strategic planning, capital project delivery, and preparing the community for future growth and emergency events. This PositionCast™ is designed to help qualified municipal leaders determine if Nederland is the right professional and personal fit for the next chapter of their career. Position Details City Manager, Nederland Texas Salary Range: $161,000 to $219,000 DOQ Residency within city limits required Application Deadline, January 23 View posting and apply: https://clearcareerpro.com/city-manager-nederland-tx/ The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

Wichita Falls, Texas is hiring a Chief Building Official during a period of major growth and development. In this episode of The Clear Voice, host James Groom is joined by Clear Career Professionals recruiter Michael Boese and Assistant City Manager Paul Menzies to discuss the Chief Building Official opportunity in Wichita Falls, Texas. The conversation explores the city’s compliance focused inspections culture, same day inspection model, leadership expectations, and the role’s importance in supporting major commercial and data center development projected in the billions. This PositionCast episode breaks down leadership expectations, inspection culture, and why this role matters right now. Listeners gain insight into Wichita Falls’ quality of life, affordability, collaborative work culture, and why this position offers a rare opportunity to help guide a city entering a transformative chapter. Wichita Falls is a regional hub supported by Midwestern State University and Sheppard Air Force Base, offering community scale leadership with access to major metro amenities. Listen to the full conversation and learn more about the role below. View the Chief Building Official opportunity in Wichita Falls, Texas: https://clearcareerpro.com/chief-building-official-wichita-falls-tx/ Follow Clear Career Professionals on LinkedIn for future PositionCast episodes and municipal leadership opportunities: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro/ Sound bites from this episode include: “We are compliance based, not ticket based.” “Same day inspections are the expectation here.” “The level of construction coming will be measured in billions.” “You can build a career here without sacrificing your family life.” #ChiefBuildingOfficial #WichitaFallsTX #TexasMunicipalJobs #BuildingInspections #DevelopmentServices #PublicSectorLeadership #MunicipalCareers #CodeCompliance #ClearCareerProfessionals The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro

In this episode of The Clear Voice podcast by Clear Career Professionals, we explore a significant development in local government leadership in Surfside Beach, Texas. For the first time in the community’s history, Surfside Beach is creating a City Administrator position to lead day to day operations, implement strategic priorities, and work closely with the Mayor and City Council. This PositionCast highlights a rare opportunity for an experienced public sector leader interested in municipal leadership in a coastal Texas community. The conversation examines what makes Surfside Beach unique, including its strong employee culture, collaborative leadership environment, and commitment to fiscal responsibility. Mayor Zach Parsch and the recruiting team discuss key priorities for the next City Administrator, including infrastructure planning, tourism management, emergency management and hurricane preparedness, and long term community resilience. Listeners gain firsthand insight into what the City Council is seeking in its first City Administrator, the leadership qualities needed to succeed in this role, and why Surfside Beach represents a true blank canvas for thoughtful, people focused local government leadership. This episode is especially relevant for city administrators, assistant city managers, and local government professionals considering their next leadership opportunity. For more information on the City Administrator position in Surfside Beach, Texas, including job details and application materials, visit: https://clearcareerpro.com/city-administrator-surfside-beach-tx/ The views and opinions expressed on The Clear Voice do not necessarily reflect those of Clear Career Professionals. The discussion of any company, product, or service is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement. Connect With Clear Career Professionals Clear Career Professionals is a Texas based municipal executive search firm specializing in City Manager search services, municipal executive search, and local government leadership consulting for cities and counties across Texas and the United States. Clear works with communities to recruit City Managers, City Administrators, Assistant City Managers, Police Chiefs, Fire Chiefs, Finance Directors, HR Directors, and other senior municipal leaders. In addition to executive search services, Clear provides local government leadership training, organizational assessments, executive coaching, interim leadership placements, and strategic consulting designed to strengthen city organizations and support effective public service leadership. Clear partners with city councils, county commissioners, and public sector leadership teams seeking experienced municipal professionals who can guide growing communities, manage complex organizations, and deliver strong public service outcomes.  Career Opportunities https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro