What does it really take to lead a city with courage—especially when your path is unconventional, the budget is tight, and the stakes are personal?

In this episode, Gov360 host Chris Mann shares his guest appearance on the Courage Wise Podcast, where he sat down with Gavin Johns for an honest, wide-ranging conversation about leadership, resilience, and building a meaningful career in local government.

Together, they explore:

✅ Chris’ untraditional journey to becoming a city manager

✅ Why resilience—not perfection—is the key to lasting leadership

✅ Strategic planning lessons from turning deficits into surpluses

✅ How to build high-performing teams without micromanaging

✅ Faith, family, and finding purpose in public service

They also dive into leadership mindset—how to push forward even when you’re doubted, and why being “ready” isn’t a requirement for taking the first step.

You don’t need a traditional path to lead in local government—you need purpose and perseverance.

Resilient leaders build trust by facing challenges head-on.

Strategic planning is about defining a city’s future—not just checking boxes.

Empowered teams outperform micromanaged ones.

The best leaders serve others and build cultures of ownership.

Nontraditional career paths in local government

Strategic planning in growing cities

Budget turnaround and innovation under pressure

Empowerment-based leadership

Faith and family as leadership foundations

The emotional toll—and rewards—of city management

Organizational culture and trust-building

Wildomar’s vision and long-range planning

🎙️ Courage Wise Podcast on Apple Podcasts

📲 Connect with Gavin Johns on LinkedIn

📲 Connect with Chris Mann on LinkedIn

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🎧 Listen on Spotify

Gov360 is the show for local government professionals who want to lead with impact, master their craft, and rise to the top of the profession.

Tags: LocalGovernment, CityManager, Leadership, Gov360, ResilientLeadership, PublicAdministration, StrategicPlanning, CityManagement, CivicEngagement, FaithInLeadership, CourageWise, PublicService, GovTech, TeamEmpowerment, WildomarCA