Join us for an extraordinary conversation with two legends of local government management: John Phillips and Steve Carter. After decades leading communities and another decade as senior advisors mentoring Illinois managers, these veterans share unfiltered insights about what it really takes to sustain a career in public service.From their first internships in the 1960s and 70s to wrapping up their roles as ILCMA senior advisors, John and Steve discuss the evolving challenges of the profession—from navigating social media storms and changing council dynamics to building trust in university towns and managing multi-jurisdictional relationships. They reveal why they stayed in their communities for 25-30 years when others leave after five, how they built staff cultures that outlasted their tenures, and what it means to show up with integrity when the work gets hard.This isn't a retirement party—it's a masterclass in relationship building, ethical leadership, and the quiet art of making local government work. Whether you're new to the profession or a seasoned manager, their stories about hiring good people, maintaining work-life balance, and keeping the code of ethics close will resonate deeply.#CityManagement #LocalGovernment #PublicService #LeadershipLegacy #ICMA #ILCMA #AuthenticityFM01:07 Meet the City Management Legends02:59 The Role of Senior Advisors08:55 Understanding Downstate Illinois13:10 Building Networks in City Management16:06 The Importance of Professional Local Government17:32 Navigating Modern Communication Challenges22:19 Evolving Relationship Management33:11 Reflections on Long-Term Careers in City Management43:07 Hiring for Values and Integrity48:41 Evolving Paths to City Management55:14 Ambassadors of Change in Local Governance01:02:17 Legacy and Collaboration Beyond Boundaries01:09:07 The Importance of Work-Life Balance01:16:08 Reflections on Mentorship and Inspiration

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