Bret Prebula: Leading Through Resistance Why Long-Term City Building Requires Courage, Clarity, and Conviction

Episode 273 of The HaltingWinter Podcast Brought to you by Tyler Technologies

In this special episode of The HaltingWinter Podcast, Seth reconnects with Bret Prebula, City Manager of Suisun City, California, before revisiting one of the most compelling leadership stories ever shared on the show.

Bret's original appearance in Episode 182 explored his unconventional path into city management, his willingness to take calculated risks, and his belief that local government must move beyond maintenance mode to truly serve future generations.

Since that conversation, Bret's leadership has been tested on a much larger stage.

In this brief catch-up conversation, Seth and Bret discuss what it looks like to lead transformational change amid public resistance, emotional volatility, and national-level attention. Bret shares how Suisun City is navigating historic annexation efforts, polarized community response, and the personal cost of leading boldly when the pressure is real.

Following the update, we replay Episode 182 in full—because the insights shared then are even more relevant now.

Sponsored by:

• Tyler Technologies – the nation's leading provider of software designed specifically for the public sector. Learn more at tylertech.com/winter

• The Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC) is a global community for local government leaders who want ongoing support, practical insights, and a trusted peer network to help them lead with clarity and conviction. Learn more at haltingwinter.com/MLDC

Connect with Seth Winterhalter

• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sethwinterhalter
• Website: www.HaltingWinter.com