A new episode of the CitiesSpeak podcast from the National League of Cities features Clarence E. Anthony, CEO and Executive Director of NLC, in a keynote-style address recorded at the 2026 Congressional City Conference. The episode explores how local governments are delivering for their communities every day and why local leadership is essential to meeting residents’ needs and strengthening democracy.
During the episode, Anthony reflects on his journey into public service and the responsibility local leaders carry to represent their communities with purpose and urgency, offering perspective on how local leaders can rise to meet this moment. The conversation highlights leadership, resilience and the importance of community trust.
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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. New episodes of CitiesSpeak are available weekly on all major podcasting platforms and on YouTube:
CitiesSpeak Podcast: Ayesha Rascoe and Vincent Evans Engage in Conversation
CitiesSpeak Podcast: Lessons Learned From Five Years of ARPA
CitiesSpeak Podcast: Bridging Community Divides & Strengthening Civic Trust
CitiesSpeak Podcast: National Census Day
CitiesSpeak Podcast: NLC President Kevin Kramer Addresses Congressional City Conference
