Kellye and Charisse discuss the potential challenges and opportunities faced by city management professionals as they transition into entrepreneurship. They explore the identity shifts that occur when leaving traditional roles, the transferable skills gained from city management, and the importance of coaching in supporting leaders. The conversation emphasizes the need for clarity, sustainability, and the creation of supportive environments for city managers and executives. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to embrace new possibilities and stay true to their passions while navigating their careers.

Takeaways

• City management leaders are feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about their future.
• Many are considering leaving the profession not due to failure, but due to lack of support.
• Building our own tables means creating spaces that add value to city management.
• Identity shifts occur when transitioning from city management to entrepreneurship.
• The skills gained in city management are highly transferable to coaching and consulting.
• Coaching helps city leaders feel grounded and less fragmented.
• Sustainable leadership is about using existing skills in new ways.
• Clarity and capacity are essential for effective decision-making in entrepreneurship.
• Exploring new opportunities can lead to fulfilling careers outside of traditional roles.
• Support and community are vital for city managers navigating their careers.

Chapters
00:00 The State of City Management Today
02:57 Identity Shift: From City Management to Entrepreneurship
05:39 Building a Business: Skills and Challenges
08:12 Transferring Skills: From City Hall to Coaching
11:10 Supporting City Management Through Coaching
19:11 Navigating Decision-Making in Leadership
21:51 The Importance of Grounded Leadership
24:54 Building a Humane City Management
26:59 Understanding Capacity vs. Capability
28:55 The Shift from Team to Solo Work
32:35 Exploring New Possibilities in Your Career