151: Michael Paulhus: Biology, Banking, and Better Government
151: Michael Paulhus: Biology, Banking, and Better Government  
Podcast: The HaltingWinter Podcast
Published On: Tue Mar 18 2025
Description: Show Notes: Michael Paulhus: Biology, Banking, and Better Government Episode 151 of The HaltingWinter Podcast Overview In this captivating episode of the HaltingWinter podcast, Seth Winterhalter speaks with Michael Paulhus, Town Manager of Plainville, Connecticut. From Tanzania with the Peace Corps to wealth management at RBC to pioneering municipal social media strategies, Michael's diverse career path offers unique insights into effective local government leadership. Their conversation explores how curiosity and continuous learning can transform municipal communication and leadership. Episode Highlights: An Unconventional Journey: Michael's fascinating path from biology student to Peace Corps volunteer in Tanzania to municipal leadership showcases the value of diverse experiences Dual Leadership Perspective: The rare insights gained from serving both as an elected official (First Selectman) and appointed Town Manager Private Sector Principles: How five years at RBC Wealth Management transformed Michael's approach to efficiency, resource management, and questioning established processes Creative Resource Management: The innovative strategies Michael used to acquire expensive equipment for just $50 through state surplus programs, saving his municipality tens of thousands Social Media Revolution: How Michael went from social media novice to municipal communication innovator, creating engaging content across multiple platforms Team Building Approach: Michael's success in building a multi-generational communication team that leverages different strengths and perspectives Self-Care Philosophy: The five pillars Michael follows for personal wellbeing: diet, exercise, meditation, prayer, and sleep Curiosity as Leadership Strength: The power of intellectual curiosity and lifelong learning in opening doors and creating community opportunities Connect with Michael Paulhus: LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeltpaulhus/ About HaltingWinter Municipal Solutions: At HaltingWinter, our mission is to build stronger cities through stronger leaders by providing municipal leadership development services, rooted in the ABCs of Impactful Leadership framework. To explore how we can strengthen you and your municipality, visit haltingwinter.com. Upcoming Events: Don't miss Seth Winterhalter at the Missouri City and County Managers Association Spring Conference at the Margaritaville Resort, starting April 30th. Register now at www.momanagers.org/191/Spring-Conference. Connect With Seth Winterhalter LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sethwinterhalter Website: www.HaltingWinter.com The MLDC The Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC) is a community for city managers and administrators from around the country to find support personally and professionally as they lead thriving teams and communities. We're giving podcast listeners 20% off your subscription with a 7-day FREE trial to make sure it's the right fit for you. Visit the link below and use the coupon code "PODCAST" when you register today! --> JOIN HERE