Whether you’re passionate about local government, leadership, or just want a front-row seat to the stories that shape our communities, this episode has something for you.

In this episode, I’m thrilled to sit down with Betsy Keller, the newly elected president of the National Association of County Administrators. We talk about what it really means to run one of the nation’s 3,069 counties and the unique challenges and opportunities that come with this critical work.

Betsy, who also serves as the Chief Administrator for El Paso County, Texas, shares her journey from her early days in city government to stepping up as a leader on the national stage. We talk about what makes El Paso special—a diverse, cross-border county full of economic vitality and cultural richness—and how she works with partners on both sides of the border to address complex issues like food insecurity, housing, and economic development.

Our conversation touches on the human side of county administration. What motivates us, the importance of mentorship, and how building a great team makes all the difference. Betsy also lets us in on her personal life, from her love of family and adventure to her unexpected passion for fast cars and drag racing.

Here are 3 key takeaways from our discussion:

Collaboration Across Borders: El Paso County’s unique position as a diverse, binational community highlights the power of collaboration, with both local, state, and international partners. Betsy emphasizes the importance of building and maintaining relationships across sectors and countries, particularly around economic development and crisis management.

Investing in People & Leadership: Betsy’s HR background proved invaluable as she stepped into higher leadership. She shares candid reflections on how foundational people management, leadership development, and fostering team accountability are to the county’s success. She also speaks passionately about uplifting future leaders and pushing for opportunities for women to advance.

Facing Community Challenges Head-On: Whether navigating flooding in a desert county or supporting local nonprofits through federal funding cuts, Betsy demonstrates a proactive, people-first approach. Her commitment to innovating in areas like affordable housing and workforce development stands as a model for public sector leaders nationwide.

Moments

00:00 El Paso's Unique Location Highlights

06:02 Cross-Border Cooperation Efforts

07:17 Career Journey from Clerk to HR Director

13:35 El Paso's Flood Management Efforts

16:56 El Paso's Housing Stability Examined

17:43 "Population Shift to Suburbs"

24:09 State Grants Boost El Paso Region

27:24 Nonprofits Struggle Amid Funding Cuts

29:42 Impacts of County Funding Reductions

32:26 Strengthening Affiliates, Expanding Partnerships

35:18 Sponsors Enable Genuine Connections

38:49 County Administrators Sharing Knowledge

44:03 Role Modeling Through Leadership

46:11 Education: Tools Beyond Experience

48:23 "Advancing Our Association's Future"

51:38 Music, Family, and Outdoor Life

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