187: Will Ibershof: Guts, Growth, and the Greater Good: Leading Through Service in Small-Town Government
187: Will Ibershof: Guts, Growth, and the Greater Good: Leading Through Service in Small-Town Government  
Podcast: The HaltingWinter Podcast
Published On: Tue Jun 10 2025
Description: Show Notes: Will Ibershof: Guts, Growth, and the Greater Good: Leading Through Service in Small-Town Government Episode 187 of The HaltingWinter Podcast Overview In this episode, Seth Winterhalter sits down with Will Ibershof, City Administrator of Madras, Oregon—and former mayor of Duval, Washington—for a conversation that's as raw as it is inspiring. From throwing up during his first campaign event to building parks, securing grants, and mentoring the next generation of public leaders, Will's story is a powerful reflection on the real work of local government. Will opens up about what it takes to lead with courage in small communities—especially through burnout, rapid growth, and the constant push-and-pull between progress and preservation. Whether you're an elected official, a department director, or aspiring to either, this episode offers a front-row seat to the challenges and rewards of leading where you live. Episode Highlights: From Dare to Duty: How a challenge from friends led Will to run for office despite never having attended a council meeting Doorbelling and Discomfort: The unforgettable (and stomach-turning) campaign moment that taught him the power of grit and authenticity No Administrator, No Problem: What it's like to serve as an elected mayor and CEO in a city without a city manager or administrator Burnout and Regret: A candid look at the personal cost of public service and what Will wishes he had done differently Mentorship That Matters: How Will forged a powerful partnership with the City Manager of Bend, Oregon and why big-small city collaboration is a rising-tide strategy Rural Growth, Urban Expectations: Lessons from Sultan and Madras, where housing demand, infrastructure realities, and small-town identity collide The Heart of Connection: Why events, community grants, and everyday kindness are essential tools for cities battling isolation and division   Connect with Will Ibershof: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/willibershof Connect with Seth Winterhalter: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sethwinterhalter Website: www.HaltingWinter.com About HaltingWinter Municipal Solutions At HaltingWinter, we help local government leaders build thriving teams and resilient workplace cultures through keynotes, workshops, and leadership development programs rooted in the ABCs of Impactful Leadership. Learn more at HaltingWinter.com Seth's Upcoming Keynotes: 2025 South Carolina APWA Chapter Annual Conference June 24 | Spartanburg, SC Details at SCAPWA 2025 Kentucky League of Cities Conference & Expo September 24 | Owensboro, KY Details at KLC 2025 Kansas City/County Management Association Annual Conference December 4 | Manhattan, KS Details at KCMA The MLDC The Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC) is where municipal leaders grow together through weekly podcasts, curated book insights, and a nationwide peer community focused on real leadership, real culture, and real conversations. Secure Your Summer Special and Start Your FREE 7-day trial  Join the MLDC