The Clear Voice

#42 - Depopulation and the Future of Local Government | Bill King

Episode 42 of The Clear Voice looks at a shift many public leaders are not planning for, the possibility that population growth cannot be assumed.
Author and public policy researcher Bill King joins the show to discuss how changing demographics are reshaping the long-term outlook for cities, school districts, and public infrastructure. The conversation moves beyond theory and focuses on practical implications for capital planning, facilities, and financial strategy.
King explains why growth has historically helped local governments manage debt, expand services, and plan for the future, and why that cushion may not be there in the decades ahead. For leaders making decisions about new schools, major roadway projects, utility expansion, and long-term bonds, this episode challenges the assumption that more people will always be coming.
Topics include:• Why declining birth rates are changing long-term planning• The risk of overbuilding schools and infrastructure• Right-sizing versus expanding public systems• Repurposing existing facilities instead of adding capacity• The role immigration plays in U.S. demographic trends• What city managers, superintendents, and elected officials should be monitoring now
This is not a panic discussion. It is a planning discussion. The focus is on aligning long-range public investment decisions with demographic reality rather than past growth patterns.
Learn more from Bill King:
Bill King's Blog, Data-Driven Discussion on Public Policy and Politicshttps://billkingblog.com/
Bill King's Book, Depopulation, Our New Demographics Realityhttps://www.amazon.com/Depopulation-Our-New-Demographics-Reality/dp/1965766641
Follow The Clear Voice and Clear Career Professionals for more conversations focused on leadership, governance, and the future of local government.
#clearcareerprofessionals #theclearvoice #positioncast #podcast
00:00 Introduction to Depopulation and Demographics03:18 The End of Assumed Growth07:01 Aging Population and Its Implications09:44 Global Demographic Divergence13:09 Economic Implications of Declining Population16:45 Local Impacts and Future Planning22:06 Understanding Depopulation Trends26:36 Adapting Infrastructure and Services31:19 The Role of Technology in Future Planning35:14 Demographic Monitoring and Policy Implications40:11 Strategic Consolidation and Repurposing Assets41:51 Outro and Thanks!
 
 
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#41 - What Engineers Wish City Leaders Knew | Craig Kerkhoff

Infrastructure problems rarely start the day a pipe breaks or a road fails. Most begin years earlier with decisions cities did not realize carried long term consequences.
In this episode of The Clear Voice, Host James Groom and Clear Career Professionals President Michael Boese sit down with municipal engineer Craig Kerkhoff, Managing Partner at BHC, to discuss the infrastructure realities city leaders face but often cannot see coming.
Craig explains what engineers regularly encounter once construction begins, hidden system deficiencies, aging infrastructure that was never mapped or evaluated, and the difficult conversations that follow when unexpected costs appear. The discussion covers growth pressure in smaller cities, why master planning matters, how political decision making intersects with engineering recommendations, and the truth about grants versus long term funding strategy.
City managers, elected officials, and department leaders will gain insight into how infrastructure planning affects public safety, taxpayer dollars, and a community’s long term stability. This episode offers a practical look at what happens behind the scenes of roads, water systems, and utilities, and why proactive leadership matters long before something fails.
About Craig KerkhoffCraig Kerkhoff is the Managing Partner at BHC, an engineering firm serving municipalities across Texas. With more than 20 years of experience in municipal engineering, Craig works with cities to plan, design, and deliver infrastructure that supports long term community success.
🌐 BHC Website: https://www.bhcllp.com📧 Craig Kerkhoff: ckerkhoff@bhcllp.com
For more leadership conversations focused on local government, follow The Clear Voice and visit Clear Career Professionals for current career opportunities.
00:00 Introduction to Municipal Engineering and Infrastructure03:01 Craig Kerkhoff's Journey in Engineering04:33 Understanding BHC and Its Focus on Municipalities06:25 Building Relationships with Cities09:50 Common Infrastructure Challenges for Cities11:49 Navigating Infrastructure Issues in Smaller vs. Larger Cities18:51 Leadership Dynamics in Municipal Decision-Making27:06 Funding Infrastructure: Grants and Financial Planning31:40 Final Thoughts on Leadership and Infrastructure Challenges
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#40 - Odessa, Texas CFO Opportunity PositionCast™

What does it take to lead municipal finance in one of the most economically dynamic regions in the United States?
In this PositionCast™, James Groom,  Host of The Clear Voice, is joined by Kelly Kuenstler, Vice President with Clear Career Professionals, and Aaron Smith, City Manager of Odessa, Texas, to discuss the Chief Financial Officer opportunity with the City of Odessa. This conversation goes beyond a job posting and gives candidates a direct look at executive leadership expectations, organizational direction, and the financial complexity facing Odessa’s next CFO.
Odessa operates in the heart of the Permian Basin, where oil and gas economic cycles influence municipal revenue, forecasting, and long term financial strategy. The CFO will oversee a 300 million dollar plus municipal budget environment, enterprise operations, financial planning, internal controls, debt management, audits, grants administration, and serve as a principal financial advisor to the City Manager and City Council. The role combines technical municipal finance expertise with executive level strategic leadership.
Aaron Smith shares his servant leadership philosophy, discusses rebuilding organizational stability, strengthening council and staff trust, expanding grant capacity, and positioning Odessa to become a benchmark community for municipal finance best practices. Kelly Kuenstler provides insight into what the City is seeking in its next financial leader and how this role fits into Odessa’s broader executive team structure.
Aaron also talks about quality of life in Odessa and West Texas, highlighting the strong sense of community, family friendly environment, and access to outdoor recreation. He mentions proximity to Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Big Bend National Park, and destinations in New Mexico, making Odessa appealing for leaders who value both professional impact and lifestyle balance.
Candidates will gain clarity on executive team dynamics, expectations for communication with council, support for professional development, and the opportunity to help shape financial operations during a period of growth and organizational renewal.
This episode is designed for municipal finance leaders, finance directors, assistant city managers, city managers, and public sector executives seeking high impact leadership roles in local government.
Learn more and apply for the Chief Financial Officer position herehttps://clearcareerpro.com/chief-financial-officer-odessa-texas/
#ClearCareerProfessionals#TheClearVoice#PositionCast#MunicipalFinance#LocalGovernmentCareers#CityFinance#PublicSectorLeadership
00:00 Introduction to the CFO Position in Odessa04:09 Aaron Smith's Journey to City Manager05:53 Understanding the CFO Role and Responsibilities09:25 Current Projects and Future Opportunities10:38 Challenges Facing the New Finance Director12:22 Community Engagement and Communication13:40 Living in Odessa: A Personal Perspective15:08 Impact of the Permian Basin on Odessa16:43 Support for Professional Development17:25 Final Thoughts for Applicants18:08 Outro
 
 
 
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#39 - Brad Stafford on City Manager Burnout

Episode #39 of The Clear Voice features Brad Stafford, retired City Manager and Vice President at Clear Career Professionals, in an honest and important conversation about city manager burnout, leadership stress, and mental health in local government. Brad is joined by Kelly Kuenstler, Vice President at Clear Career Professionals and former city and county manager, along with James Groom, Host of The Clear Voice and public sector leader.
After 28 years serving as a City Manager, Brad Stafford shares the personal and professional realities that led him to step away from city management, not because he stopped caring, but because the cumulative weight of the job finally caught up with him. His experience reflects what many local government executives face but rarely discuss publicly.
This episode explores the long term impact of constant crisis response, political pressure, public scrutiny, and the expectation that city managers must always be steady, available, and composed for everyone else. Brad Stafford discusses how burnout does not happen overnight. It builds through years of council meetings, community demands, staff oversight, emergency situations, and major events such as COVID and severe weather crises. Over time, the pace, responsibility, and emotional load can erode even the most committed public servant.
James Groom guides the conversation toward the human side of leadership in municipal government, highlighting how leaders often take care of everyone else while neglecting their own well being. Kelly Kuenstler adds perspective from her experience in local government recruitment and executive leadership, emphasizing how widespread stress and burnout have become in city administration.
Listeners will hear Brad Stafford describe the moment he realized something had changed. The work that once energized him no longer felt sustainable. He talks about identity and leadership, and how serving as a City Manager for decades can become deeply tied to who you are as a person. Letting go of that role can feel like losing part of yourself, yet recognizing the need to step away is also a form of leadership.
Key topics in this episode include city manager burnout in local government, leadership stress in high responsibility public service roles, mental health challenges for city managers and executive leaders, the impact of politics and public meetings on administrators, the pressure of being on call at all times, and the challenge of balancing professional responsibility with family and personal well being. The conversation also covers the importance of peer networks, professional associations, and how councils and communities can better support their city manager and department heads.
Brad Stafford emphasizes peer support, family support, and professional networks such as state and regional city management associations. He explains that many leaders struggle in silence because of stigma or the belief that they must always appear strong. By sharing his story, he hopes to help other city managers, assistant city managers, and department directors recognize early warning signs and feel less alone.
This episode of The Clear Voice is especially relevant for City Managers, Assistant City Managers, Department Directors, municipal executives, elected officials, and anyone working in local government leadership. It also offers valuable perspective for city councils and community members who want to understand the human side of the city manager role. Behind every agenda packet, policy decision, and public meeting is a person carrying significant responsibility.
The Clear Voice podcast, produced in partnership with Clear Career Professionals, highlights leadership, careers in local government, and the people behind public service. Episode #39 adds an important discussion about sustainability in leadership and protecting the well being of those who serve communities every day.
Listen to Episode 39 of The Clear Voice to hear Brad Stafford, Kelly Kuenstler, and James Groom discuss burnout in city management, leadership stress, and mental health in public service.
00:00 Introduction to City Management and Burnout02:27 Personal Experiences with Burnout05:19 The Impact of COVID-19 on City Managers07:36 Strategies for Preventing Burnout10:07 The Role of City Councils in Supporting Managers12:25 Mental Health Awareness in City Management15:00 Peer Support and Resources for City Managers17:25 Professional Development and Resilience Training20:11 Civility and Stress in Municipal Government22:40 Recommendations for Reducing Burnout25:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
 
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#38 - The Next Generation of Public Service with Max Fisher

In this episode of The Clear Voice, host James Groom is joined by Clear Career Professionals President Michael Boese to welcome Max Fisher, a recent Texas Tech Master of Public Administration graduate and emerging local government professional. Together, they explore what the next generation of public service looks like and how cities can build stronger leadership pipelines.
Max shares his journey from considering law school to discovering a passion for city management, policy development, and community impact. He reflects on the transition from classroom theory to real world municipal leadership and how early career experiences in West Texas shaped his understanding of public administration. The discussion highlights the gap between academic preparation and daily City Hall operations, and why hands on learning remains essential for emerging leaders.
Michael Boese adds perspective from his work recruiting city managers, finance directors, and department leaders across Texas, particularly in West Texas communities that are building the future of municipal government. He emphasizes the role of mentorship, culture, and personal connection in helping young professionals find the right community and the right first opportunity.
The conversation explores how technology is changing government work while face to face relationships still drive effective leadership. Max discusses internships, early exposure to local government, and how cities can connect with students at the high school and college level to introduce careers in public administration, public works, utilities, and municipal finance.
This episode examines the leadership pipeline facing communities across Texas and the nation. Topics include workforce development, the role of MPA programs, attracting young professionals to municipal careers, and preparing for assistant city manager and city manager roles while staying grounded in humility and service.
If this conversation resonates with you, follow The Clear Voice on your favorite podcast platform and connect with Clear Career Professionals on LinkedIn for ongoing discussions about leadership and local government careers. You can also explore current municipal opportunities through our career portal to find places where your skills can make a real community impact.
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#37 – Nederland, Texas PositionCast™ | City Manager Search with Mayor Jeff Darby

This PositionCast™ episode of The Clear Voice focuses on the City Manager search for Nederland, Texas. Clear Voice Host James Groom is joined by Michael Boese, President of Clear Career Professionals, and James Hopper, Vice President of Clear Career Professionals, along with special guest Mayor Jeff Darby of Nederland to discuss the expectations and opportunities for the next City Manager.
The conversation provides direct insight into the priorities shaping Nederland’s future, including renewal of aging infrastructure, grant development and outside funding, emergency management readiness along the Gulf Coast, and the importance of strong relationships with employees, residents, and regional industry partners. Mayor Darby explains the leadership qualities the City Council values most, open communication, humility, visibility in the community, and collaboration with represented police and fire professionals.
President Michael Boese reviews the recruitment process, salary range, and benefits, while Vice President James Hopper highlights the professional and leadership competencies that will help a new City Manager succeed in a complex Southeast Texas environment. Host James Groom guides the discussion to ensure candidates hear practical perspectives about culture, priorities, and the day to day realities of the role.
Nederland offers highly rated schools, proximity to Houston, access to Gulf Coast amenities, and a stable economic base supported by major energy investment. The next City Manager will play a critical role in strategic planning, capital project delivery, and preparing the community for future growth and emergency events.
This PositionCast™ is designed to help qualified municipal leaders determine if Nederland is the right professional and personal fit for the next chapter of their career.
Position Details
City Manager, Nederland TexasSalary Range: $161,000 to $219,000 DOQResidency within city limits requiredApplication Deadline, January 23View posting and apply: https://clearcareerpro.com/city-manager-nederland-tx/
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#36 - Wichita Falls, Texas Chief Building Official

Wichita Falls, Texas is hiring a Chief Building Official during a period of major growth and development.
In this episode of The Clear Voice, host James Groom is joined by Clear Career Professionals recruiter Michael Boese and Assistant City Manager Paul Menzies to discuss the Chief Building Official opportunity in Wichita Falls, Texas. The conversation explores the city’s compliance focused inspections culture, same day inspection model, leadership expectations, and the role’s importance in supporting major commercial and data center development projected in the billions.
This PositionCast episode breaks down leadership expectations, inspection culture, and why this role matters right now. Listeners gain insight into Wichita Falls’ quality of life, affordability, collaborative work culture, and why this position offers a rare opportunity to help guide a city entering a transformative chapter. Wichita Falls is a regional hub supported by Midwestern State University and Sheppard Air Force Base, offering community scale leadership with access to major metro amenities.
Listen to the full conversation and learn more about the role below.
View the Chief Building Official opportunity in Wichita Falls, Texas:https://clearcareerpro.com/chief-building-official-wichita-falls-tx/
Follow Clear Career Professionals on LinkedIn for future PositionCast episodes and municipal leadership opportunities:https://www.linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro/
Sound bites from this episode include:“We are compliance based, not ticket based.”“Same day inspections are the expectation here.”“The level of construction coming will be measured in billions.”“You can build a career here without sacrificing your family life.”
#ChiefBuildingOfficial#WichitaFallsTX#TexasMunicipalJobs#BuildingInspections#DevelopmentServices#PublicSectorLeadership#MunicipalCareers#CodeCompliance#ClearCareerProfessionals
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#35 - Surfside Beach City Administrator Positioncast

In this episode of The Clear Voice podcast by Clear Career Professionals, we explore a significant development in local government leadership in Surfside Beach, Texas. For the first time in the community’s history, Surfside Beach is creating a City Administrator position to lead day to day operations, implement strategic priorities, and work closely with the Mayor and City Council. This PositionCast highlights a rare opportunity for an experienced public sector leader interested in municipal leadership in a coastal Texas community.
The conversation examines what makes Surfside Beach unique, including its strong employee culture, collaborative leadership environment, and commitment to fiscal responsibility. Mayor Zach Parsch and the recruiting team discuss key priorities for the next City Administrator, including infrastructure planning, tourism management, emergency management and hurricane preparedness, and long term community resilience.
Listeners gain firsthand insight into what the City Council is seeking in its first City Administrator, the leadership qualities needed to succeed in this role, and why Surfside Beach represents a true blank canvas for thoughtful, people focused local government leadership. This episode is especially relevant for city administrators, assistant city managers, and local government professionals considering their next leadership opportunity.
For more information on the City Administrator position in Surfside Beach, Texas, including job details and application materials, visit:https://clearcareerpro.com/city-administrator-surfside-beach-tx/
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#34 - Clear Looks Ahead to 2026: Strengthening Our Impact

The Clear Voice closes out the year with a reflective wrap-up conversation between host James Groom and Clear Career President Michael Boese, looking back on the moments, lessons, and impact that shaped 2025 while setting the stage for the year ahead. Together, they revisit key themes from the past twelve months, discuss how leadership and service continue to evolve in local government, and reflect on the mission-driven work that defines Clear’s approach to recruitment, consulting, and community impact.
This episode explores how meaningful relationships, intentional leadership, and a focus on service shape outcomes for organizations, communities, and the people who lead them. James and Michael also look forward to 2026, sharing thoughts on purpose, growth, and the opportunities ahead for leaders working in public service.
Whether you’re a municipal leader, an aspiring executive, or someone who cares deeply about community-focused leadership, this year-end discussion offers both reflection and forward momentum.
Explore current leadership opportunities with Clear Career Professionals here:
https://clearcareerpro.com/opportunities
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#33 - Clear Reflects on 2025: A Year of Growth and Gratitude

In this special year-end episode of Clear Voice, host James Groom takes us on a reflective journey through 2025, sharing personal and professional milestones of the Clear Career Professionals team.
Listeners will hear from various team members, including James Hopper, Marty Schmitt, Deanna Hendrix, Kevin Boese, and Kelly Kuenstler, as they share their own reflections on the past year. From leadership lessons to personal anecdotes, each guest offers unique insights into what made 2025 a year to remember.
The episode also looks forward to 2026, with discussions on upcoming goals, exciting trends in local government, and the continuous journey of personal and professional development. Whether you're a leader, a team member, or simply someone looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with wisdom and encouragement for the new year.
Tune in to hear heartfelt stories, valuable lessons, and a collective vision for the future.
Don't miss this opportunity to reflect, learn, and grow with us.
For our open leadership opportunities: https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities/
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#32 - Lamesa, Texas City Manager PositionCast

The City Manager position in Lamesa, Texas offers a rare opportunity to lead a full service West Texas city at a moment of real transition. In this City Manager PositionCast, Mayor Hayden Davis, Clear Career Professionals President Michael Boese, and The Clear Voice host, James Groom, provide a candid discussion about the Lamesa City Manager role, including council expectations, governance philosophy, economic development strategy, infrastructure priorities, and community culture.
This episode covers what it is like to live and work in Lamesa TX, the City Manager salary and benefits, TMRS retirement, quality of life in West Texas, and the leadership qualities the City Council is seeking in its next City Manager. Topics include I-27 corridor growth, housing development, city branding, customer service culture, public safety, infrastructure investment, and long term economic opportunity.
If you are a City Manager, Assistant City Manager, or senior municipal leader considering your next move in Texas local government, this episode will help you determine fit before applying.
City Manager job opening in Lamesa Texas. Council Manager form of government. Full service city. Professional management opportunity.
Learn more and applyhttps://clearcareerpro.com/city-manager-lamesa-tx/
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#31 - Weatherford, Texas Director of Finance

In this episode of the Clear Voice, host James Groom is joined by Clear President Michael Boese and City of Weatherford leadership for a PositionCast highlighting an exceptional municipal finance opportunity, Director of Finance for the City of Weatherford, Texas.
City Manager James Hotopp and Assistant City Manager and CFO Dawn Brooks provide an in depth look at Weatherford’s culture, values, and strategic approach to growth. They discuss why the city has intentionally pursued steady, well managed expansion, how fiscal discipline supports quality of life and public safety, and what makes Weatherford an attractive place to live and work just west of the DFW Metroplex.
The conversation explores the structure and strengths of the Finance Department, leadership expectations for the next Director of Finance, and the importance of mentoring, modernization, and strategic advising. Listeners will hear how Weatherford empowers directors to operate their departments with autonomy while maintaining accountability, collaboration, and a strong people focused culture.
This PositionCast also covers key challenges and opportunities ahead, including managing growth, navigating legislative changes, complex capital planning, and maximizing the city’s ERP system. Compensation, benefits, and Clear’s candidate focused recruitment process are also discussed.
This PositionCast is essential listening for finance professionals seeking a high impact leadership role in a financially healthy, values driven, and forward looking city.
More information or to Apply - https://clearcareerpro.com/director-of-finance-weatherford-tx
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#30 - Liberty, Texas Assistant Police Chief

The Clear Voice sits down with Liberty Police Chief Rick Ashe for a detailed look at one of the most meaningful leadership opportunities currently open in Texas, the Assistant Chief of Police for the City of Liberty.
Chief Ashe shares his decades long journey in law enforcement, including his tenure in Temple, his time as an assessor for TPCA accreditation, and the path that ultimately brought him to Liberty. He provides a clear and candid overview of the department’s structure, culture, technology modernization, and the transformative work underway to elevate service delivery, community visibility, and supervisory accountability.
This episode explores the vision behind the newly created Assistant Chief role, which will oversee investigations, dispatch, records, evidence, internal affairs, accreditation, and training. Chief Ashe details the qualities he is seeking in a second-in-command, why the position is ideal for lieutenants or senior sergeants ready for their next professional step, and how the selected candidate will be mentored to eventually assume command of the organization.
Listeners will also learn about Liberty’s low crime rate, community support, operational improvements, upcoming TPCA reaccreditation cycle, investment in technology including MDTs and Flock ALPR, and the city’s future economic growth tied to new subdivisions and the developing shallow-water port.
Whether you are a seasoned law enforcement leader looking for upward mobility or simply want to understand how a department modernizes while strengthening culture, this episode provides an in-depth look at a compelling opportunity in a growing Texas community.
Learn more or apply at:
https://clearcareerpro.com/assistant-chief-of-police-liberty-tx/
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#29 - Marble Falls, Texas Finance Director

In this episode of The Clear Voice, Clear recruiter Kelly Kuenstler visits with Marble Falls City Manager Caleb Kraenzel to discuss the city’s open Finance Director position. The conversation gives listeners a grounded look at the role, the organizational culture, and the opportunities that come with serving a fast-growing Hill Country community.
Caleb outlines how the finance team supports budgeting, accounting, purchasing, utility billing, payroll, and financial reporting for a city that operates as a regional hub. He also emphasizes Marble Falls’ commitment to customer service and clear internal and external communication.
The discussion highlights the city’s significant capital environment, including major water and wastewater investments, park and trail enhancements, transportation improvements, and a variety of state and federal grants. These projects provide a strong platform for a finance professional who enjoys complex planning, multi-source funding, and collaboration across departments.
Inside the organization, Caleb speaks to process improvements, policy updates, staffing assessments, and the city’s focus on leadership development and stable governance. He describes an executive environment that supports thoughtful, long-range financial work without political turbulence.
The episode closes with a practical look at life in Marble Falls, touching on housing, community culture, and the flexibility offered to new directors considering relocation.
If you are a finance director or senior finance professional seeking meaningful work, organizational stability, and the chance to help shape a growing Hill Country city, explore the full posting and apply at:
https://clearcareerpro.com/finance-director-marble-falls-tx/
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#28 - Power Thinking, Purpose, and Leadership with Dr. Don Hooper

In Episode 28 of The Clear Voice, we sit down with Dr. Don Hooper, a lifelong educator and national leadership expert whose work connects neuroscience, purpose, mindset, and organizational performance. Dr. Hooper has served as a superintendent, university professor, and the longtime president and CEO of the Center for Quality Leadership. His career has been shaped by decades of studying high performing leaders, refining problem solving systems, and teaching others how to unlock the full potential of their own thinking.
During this conversation, Dr. Hooper explains the core principles behind Power Thinking, a practical and disciplined approach that helps leaders understand how their brains shape decisions, how purpose sharpens clarity, and how daily habits create new neural pathways. He also challenges conventional ideas about data driven decision making and provides a model that places wisdom, intentional thought, and disciplined reflection at the center of leadership.
Listeners will hear Dr. Hooper’s insights on selective thought, thought control, self regulation, culture building, organizational listening, and the habits that strengthen clarity at every leadership level. The discussion highlights how Power Thinking can improve problem solving in education, municipal government, business, and any environment where leaders must navigate complex challenges.
Explore Dr. Hooper’s work at the Center for Quality Leadership:https://cql.net
Find Dr. Hooper's book, Power Thinking: Discovering the Unknown by Unlocking Your Brain, on Amazon.
If you are a current or aspiring leader searching for your next opportunity, Clear Career Professionals has open recruitments that need strong leaders. View active postings here:https://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities/
Tune in, learn something useful, and take your leadership thinking to a higher level.
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#27 - Montgomery County, Texas Emergency Communication District Deputy Director

In this episode of The Clear Voice, brought to you by Clear Career Professionals, host James Groom sits down with Executive Director Chip VanSteenberg and Clear Associate Vice President Brian Beasley to explore what makes this opportunity both unique and highly accessible to strong government leaders.
Montgomery County is one of the fastest growing counties in Texas, with a rapidly expanding population, complex interagency dynamics, and a 9-1-1 system that plays a critical role in daily public safety. Chip explains how the Deputy Director position supports long-range planning, system modernization, and operational reliability for a network of partner agencies across law enforcement, fire, EMS, and education.
This conversation covers:
• Why a 9-1-1 background is not required for this role• The county’s rapid growth and its impact on emergency communications• How budgeting, policy, and project leadership drive success in this position• The culture of MCECD, built on service, family, and excellence• Major initiatives, system challenges, and long-term strategic planning• What qualities distinguish a strong candidate from a great one• How the Deputy Director will shape the next 20 to 30 years of 9-1-1 service
For leaders who thrive in complex environments and enjoy work that blends strategic planning with operational support, this role offers a rare opportunity to make a lasting impact in a fast-growing region.
To review the full job posting and apply, visit: https://clearcareerpro.com/9-1-1-deputy-director-montgomery-county-tx/
Email the Recruiter, Brian Beasley, with any questions: brian@clearcareerpro.org
Please email your cover letter and resume in .pdf format to applymontgomery@clearcareerpro.com
Connect With Clear Career Professionals Websitehttps://clearcareerpro.com Career Opportunitieshttps://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities Recruitmenthttps://clearcareerpro.com/recruitment Interim Serviceshttps://clearcareerpro.com/interim-services Other Serviceshttps://clearcareerpro.com/other-professional-services Abouthttps://clearcareerpro.com/about-us LinkedInhttps://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro Listen and Subscribe:Subscribe to The Clear Voice wherever you get your podcasts to receive future episodes. Production Credit:Produced by Clear Career Professionals

#26 - Fairfield, Texas City Administrator

Episode 26 takes you to Fairfield, Texas, where the city is recruiting its next City Administrator. Mayor Robert Nichols joins the show to share Fairfield’s small town character, its strong council dynamics, and the vision guiding the community as it plans for future growth along the I 45 corridor. He discusses the city’s ongoing investments in streets, drainage, water, sewer, and parks, as well as the qualities he believes are essential for the city’s next organizational leader.
Clear Vice President Mark Shrives outlines the role in detail, including salary and benefits, relocation support, preferred experience, and the February 1, 2026 start date. Together, the conversation offers candidates a clear, direct look at Fairfield’s culture, priorities, expectations for community engagement, and the opportunities awaiting the next City Administrator.
This episode is a valuable resource for municipal leaders who want to understand the community, the leadership environment, and what success looks like in this role.
More information about the position and the recruitment brochure can be found at:https://clearcareerpro.com/city-administrator-fairfield-tx/
 
#theclearvoice #clearcareerprofessionals #leadership #podcast
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#25 - Dumas, Texas Finance Director Position

In this episode of The Clear Voice, we sit down with Dumas City Manager Mark Hall and finance expert Debbie Reid, who is currently consulting with the City of Dumas to support its financial operations. Together, they walk listeners through the Finance Director opportunity in this growing community in the Texas Panhandle.
Mark shares his vision for Dumas, the culture he is building, and why the finance function is central to the city’s long term success. Debbie provides insights into the current financial structure, ongoing improvements, and what a new director can expect to take on in the months ahead.
From strong community support to a collaborative leadership team, both guests highlight why Dumas offers a unique place to build a meaningful career in public finance. The Finance Director will play a key role in budgeting, long range planning, financial reporting, and partnering with city leadership to strengthen Dumas for the future.
Candidates will appreciate the competitive salary range of $90,000 to $110,000, full benefits, TMRS retirement, strong organizational support, and available relocation assistance. The city welcomes experienced professionals from both inside and outside Texas, including those transitioning from the private sector who bring strong accounting and leadership skills.
To learn more about the position, view the full brochure, or submit your application, visit:
https://clearcareerpro.com/finance-director-dumas-tx/
Applicants may also apply directly by sending a resume and cover letter to applydumas@clearcareerpro.com
Connect With Clear Career Professionals Websitehttps://clearcareerpro.com Career Opportunitieshttps://clearcareerpro.com/career-opportunities Recruitmenthttps://clearcareerpro.com/recruitment Interim Serviceshttps://clearcareerpro.com/interim-services Other Serviceshttps://clearcareerpro.com/other-professional-services Abouthttps://clearcareerpro.com/about-us LinkedInhttps://linkedin.com/company/clear-career-pro Listen and Subscribe:Subscribe to The Clear Voice wherever you get your podcasts to receive future episodes. Production Credit:Produced by Clear Career Professionals

#24 - From Conflict to Community with Dr. Alex del Carmen

In this episode, The Clear Voice host James Groom and Clear Career Professionals President Michael Boese sit down with Dr. Alex del Carmen, one of the nation’s leading experts on policing practices, racial profiling research, and community trust. For nearly three decades, Dr. del Carmen has trained every police chief in Texas, consulted with agencies across the country, and helped shape modern accountability standards.
Dr. del Carmen shares his remarkable personal journey from civil war and communism in Nicaragua to becoming a nationally recognized criminologist, professor, consultant, and Fulbright scholar. He explains how those early life experiences shaped his views on justice, service, and the responsibility that police and city leaders have to build real trust with diverse communities.
The conversation explores practical steps leaders can take today, warning signs city managers should pay attention to, and why honest assessment, transparency, and community partnership matter more now than ever. Dr. del Carmen also discusses his full time consulting work, including constitutional policing initiatives, racial profiling analysis, and organizational reviews designed to reduce liability and strengthen public confidence.
He closes with powerful advice for young leaders about preparation, humility, faith, and the courage to ask the hard questions.
 
Learn more about Dr. Del Carmen’s services:https://www.delcarmenconsulting.com
 
Explore Clear Career Professionals and current leadership opportunities:https://www.clearcareers.org
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#23 - From the Classroom to City Hall with Pey Zeigler

This week on The Clear Voice, host James Groom and Clear President Michael Boese sit down with Pey Zeigler, a graduate student at the Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University, where she is pursuing her Master of Public Service and Administration (MPSA).
Pey shares how faith, family, and hands-on experience shaped her calling to serve, including her internship with the City of College Station, Texas. The conversation explores how thoughtful internship programs, both paid and unpaid, can create opportunities for students from every background while helping cities invest in the next generation of leaders.
From lessons learned in the classroom to insights gained inside City Hall, Pey’s story reminds us that public service is more than a career path. It is a commitment to community.
🌐 Learn more about Clear Career Professionals, including current recruitments, leadership services, and contact information, at clearcareerpro.com.
🎓 Discover the Bush School of Government and Public Service and explore admissions for the Master of Public Service and Administration (MPSA) program at bush.tamu.edu/admissions/mpsa.
#LocalGovernment #PublicService #Leadership #Internships #TheClearVoice #ClearCareerProfessionals #BushSchool #TAMU
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