Ground Floor Government is the podcast for the people who make local government work—behind the scenes. Hosted by David Plappert, founder of PhoneLive.io, this show gives city and county clerks, IT leads, communication pros, and public servants their time at the mic. ㅤ Each week, we dig into what really keeps cities and counties running—last-minute meeting prep, tech shifts, team leadership, and the quiet but essential work of transparency and public service. If you’ve ever hit publish on a public notice, stayed late to prep a meeting, or solved a problem no one even saw coming, this show is for you.
Ground Floor Government
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86 episodes
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Podcast Overview
Ground Floor Government is the podcast for the people who make local government work—behind the scenes. Hosted by David Plappert, founder of PhoneLive.io, this show gives city and county clerks, IT leads, communication pros, and public servants their time at the mic. ㅤ Each week, we dig into what really keeps cities and counties running—last-minute meeting prep, tech shifts, team leadership, and the quiet but essential work of transparency and public service. If you’ve ever hit publish on a public notice, stayed late to prep a meeting, or solved a problem no one even saw coming, this show is for you.
Language
🇺🇲
Publishing Since
8/5/2025
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Recent Episodes
June 29, 2026
From Community Organizer to County Executive (with Steuart Pittman) | Ep. 85
<p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p>In this episode of Ground Floor Government, host Hugh Plappert interviews Steuart Pittman, the elected County Executive of Anne Arundel County, Maryland. Pittman shares his journey from community advocacy to local government leadership, discussing the challenges and triumphs he faced, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. He highlights significant projects, such as the Crownsville Hospital Memorial Park, and emphasizes the importance of public engagement in restoring trust in government. Pittman encourages listeners to consider careers in local government, stressing that every skill set can contribute to community improvement.</p><p></p><p><strong>Takeaways</strong></p><ol><li>Steuart Pittman transitioned from community advocacy to local government leadership.</li><li>His experience during COVID-19 highlighted the importance of adaptability in crisis management.</li><li>The Crownsville Hospital project aims to create a healing space and honor the history of mental health care.</li><li>Engaging the public is crucial for restoring trust in government.</li><li>Local government offers diverse career opportunities for various skill sets.</li><li>Pittman emphasizes the need for collaboration among different departments.</li><li>He believes that government can effectively address community needs when trust is established.</li><li>Public engagement helps citizens feel heard, even if their demands aren't fully met.</li><li>Pittman encourages skepticism towards government as a pathway to meaningful engagement.</li><li>His podcast serves as a platform for deeper discussions on local governance and community issues.</li></ol><br/>
June 26, 2026
From Administrative Assistant to City Clerk (with Addie Balester) | Ep. 84
<p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p>In this episode, Hugh Plappert interviews Addie Balester, the Clerk of the Council for Cleveland Heights, Ohio. They discuss Addie's journey into local government, the challenges she faced, the importance of finance in council actions, and the need for transparency and accessibility in government processes. Addie shares insights on cross-department collaboration, opportunities for aspiring local government workers, and the passion that drives her in her role.</p><p></p><p><strong>Takeaways</strong></p><ol><li>Unexpected is a common word when we talk to people about their career in local government.</li><li>I didn't want to be a politician, but what could I do behind the scenes?</li><li>I had no idea really what I was doing.</li><li>I had to figure out how to communicate and keep things moving.</li><li>Implementing that change has been a game changer.</li><li>Finance plays a major role in what council does.</li><li>Digital ADA accessibility is very important.</li><li>I work for city council, I don't work for the mayor.</li><li>Continuing education is constant.</li><li>No two days are the same.</li></ol><br/>
June 24, 2026
From Secret Service to County Leadership (with Harold Collins) | Ep. 83
<p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p>In this episode, Harold Collins shares his journey from aspiring to join the Secret Service to becoming the Chief Administrative Officer of Shelby County, Tennessee. He discusses his early experiences in local government, the challenges he faces in administration, and the significant projects aimed at improving community health and education. Collins emphasizes the importance of public service and encourages others to consider careers in local government, highlighting the fulfillment that comes from serving the community.</p><p></p><p><strong>Takeaways</strong></p><ol><li>Harold Collins began his career in local government through an internship.</li><li>His experiences in the courtroom shaped his understanding of government and law enforcement.</li><li>Collins worked in the DA's office focusing on juvenile crime and truancy.</li><li>He served on the Memphis City Council for eight years, gaining valuable experience.</li><li>Collins emphasizes the emotional engagement required in county administration.</li><li>He believes in the joy of serving the community and making a difference.</li><li>Shelby County is investing in a new hospital to improve healthcare access.</li><li>A new high school is being built in Shelby County after 60 years without one.</li><li>Collins encourages young people to find their passion in public service.</li><li>Working in government is about fulfillment, not financial gain.</li></ol><br/>
86 total episodes available
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Frequently asked questions
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- What is Ground Floor Government?
- How often does this podcast release new episodes?
This podcast updates daily.
- Where can I listen to this podcast?
This podcast is available on 4 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.
- Does this podcast accept guests?
Yes, this podcast regularly features guests.
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