Washington, D.C. — A new episode of the CitiesSpeak podcast from the National League of Cities (NLC) features John McArdle, former mayor of Independence, Oregon, and U.S. Olympian in the hammer throw, in conversation with Melanie Fonder Kaye, Senior Executive & Director, Digital Engagement, Marketing and Communications for NLC. The episode explores how lessons from elite athletics – discipline, teamwork, bold goal setting and sportsmanship – translate directly into effective local leadership and community building.
The CitiesSpeak podcast features conversations with leaders and policy experts on the biggest issues facing America’s cities, towns and villages.
During the episode, McArdle reflects on his journey from the University of Oregon to the 1980 U.S. Olympic team, offering perspective on how local leaders can think bigger, build momentum and unite communities around shared goals. The conversation highlights civic leadership in small communities, attracting major events, fostering civility through sportsmanship and the power of inspiration in public service.
Highlights from the Conversation
On the connection between athletics and public service:
“To be successful as an athlete, you need to have a goal, have a focus, build a team around you and work hard every day towards that goal… It’s very much just like local government.”
– John McArdle, Former Mayor of Independence, Oregon
On sportsmanship and civility in polarized times:
“Competition does not mean ripping the throat out of your opponent. There is respect, there is sportsmanship.”
– John McArdle, Former Mayor of Independence, Oregon
On bold leadership in small communities:
“Think big enough and make a plan and move forward… Don’t just exist. Prosper. Flower.”
– John McArdle, Former Mayor of Independence, Oregon
Listen to the full conversation, also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube.
About CitiesSpeak
Each episode of NLC’s podcast, CitiesSpeak with Clarence Anthony, dives into a critical issue facing local leaders today, featuring conversations with elected leaders and policy experts from across the country. The podcast is a relaxed and entertaining resource for local policymakers looking for ideas and information to bring back to their communities. The podcast is guest hosted by NLC Senior Executive and Director of Digital Engagement, Marketing and Communications, Melanie Fonder Kaye.
New, episodes of CitiesSpeak are available on all major podcasting platforms and on YouTube. If you have feedback for the show or ideas for future guests, email us at citiesspeakpodcast@nlc.org. Happy listening!
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