On this episode of the Civic Trust Podcast, host Matt Harder speaks with Holly Russon Gilman, a leading voice in democratic innovation whose work spans from the White House, academia, and cities across the U.S. Holly shares her perspective on what’s actually working in civic engagement today, and why participatory budgeting stands out as a model that gives residents real power, not just a seat at the table.

Drawing on years of research and hands-on experience, Holly explores how participatory budgeting builds civic agency, breaks down silos, and creates deeper, more relational forms of democracy. The conversation also looks beyond PB to broader trends in democratic innovation, including citizen assemblies, deliberative processes, and the importance of transparency and follow-through in public engagement.

Join host Alexander Lipka in conversation with Matt Harder, founder and CEO of Civic Trust, as they explore the origins and growth of Civic Trust, and their unique brand of Participatory Budgeting. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how Civic Trust is making civic engagement more intuitive, rewarding, and impactful through technology. From lessons learned during the Occupy movement to groundbreaking projects in Atlanta, Denver, and beyond, discover what it takes to empower residents, inspire government innovation, and reshape how communities make decisions that matter.