367: Garrett Corbin: Chasing Purpose, Not Prestige
367: Garrett Corbin: Chasing Purpose, Not Prestige  
Podcast: The HaltingWinter Podcast
Published On: Tue Aug 04 2026
Description: Garrett Corbin: Chasing Purpose, Not PrestigeThe Career Advice Every Public Servant Needs Episode 367 of The HaltingWinter Podcast Sponsored by Tyler Technologies *]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "7f0aa905-d803-4481-9e44-c1a088a011df" data-testid= "conversation-turn-12" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> Most people think successful careers are built by carefully following a plan. Garrett Corbin's story suggests otherwise. As Town Manager of Carrabassett Valley, Maine, Garrett's path to local government was anything but predictable. He dreamed of working in Washington, D.C., studied international relations and law, served in state government, practiced as an attorney, and spent years advocating for municipalities through the Maine Municipal Association before discovering that his greatest opportunity to make a difference was in a small mountain town he had loved since childhood. In this conversation, Garrett shares how each unexpected stop along his journey prepared him for leadership, why experience often teaches more than education, and why the most meaningful careers are built around purpose rather than prestige. We also explore the unique role local government plays in shaping communities, the importance of leading with integrity, and why finding work you truly believe in can transform both your career and your life. About Garrett CorbinGarrett Corbin is the Town Manager of Carrabassett Valley, Maine, home to Sugarloaf Mountain. Before becoming town manager, he spent more than a decade with the Maine Municipal Association as both a legislative advocate and attorney, helping municipalities navigate public policy and legal issues. Garrett holds degrees from Boston University, the University of Maine School of Law, and the University of Southern Maine, and is passionate about strengthening local government and serving the communities that make Maine unique. This Episode is Sponsored by: Tyler Technologies – the nation's leading provider of software and technology solutions built specifically for local government. From artificial intelligence and resident engagement to budgeting, planning, and public service delivery, Tyler helps communities operate more efficiently and serve residents more effectively. Learn more at https://tylertech.com/winter The Municipal Leadership Development Circle (MLDC) - The MLDC is a private leadership community designed exclusively for local government professionals. Through practical tools, meaningful conversations, and a nationwide network of peers, members gain the support and perspective needed to lead with greater confidence, clarity, and impact. https://haltingwinter.com/MLDC Connect With Seth Winterhalter Seth Winterhalter is a keynote speaker, storyteller, and President of HaltingWinter, a national media company dedicated to telling the stories of local government. Through The HaltingWinter Podcast and the nationwide HaltingWinter Tour, he highlights the people and communities shaping America from the ground up, celebrating public servants, strengthening the profession, and inspiring the next generation to pursue lives of purpose and impact through local government. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethwinterhalter Website: https://www.HaltingWinter.com