365: Eric Swanson: Just Keep Showing Up

About this episode

Eric Swanson: Just Keep Showing UpWhy Resilience Is a Leader's Greatest Strength Episode 365 of The HaltingWinter Podcast Sponsored by Tyler Technologies

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Leadership isn't about avoiding adversity. It's about continuing to show up, especially when the path gets difficult.

In this episode of The HaltingWinter Podcast, Seth Winterhalter sits down with Eric Swanson, City Manager of Phoenix, Oregon, retired U.S. Air Force Reserve Colonel, and a public servant whose career has taken him from small-town Maine to North Carolina, South Dakota, and Oregon. Along the way, Eric has navigated political transitions, military deployments, community disasters, career setbacks, and one of Oregon's most devastating wildfires.

Eric shares how a childhood rooted in faith, family, and service shaped his approach to leadership long before he entered local government. He reflects on becoming a town manager at just 25 years old, learning to lead without having all the answers, and why asking for help is one of a leader's greatest strengths.

The conversation also explores the realities of city management that rarely make headlines: adapting to new councils and mayors, earning trust during times of uncertainty, balancing public service with family, and staying committed when criticism inevitably comes.

Eric also recounts returning to Phoenix after stepping away from city management, only to lead the community through COVID-19 and the devastating Almeda Fire. His story illustrates how trust, resilience, and strong relationships can help communities recover and rebuild even after unimaginable loss.

Whether you're a city manager, department director, elected official, or aspiring public servant, this episode is a powerful reminder that leadership isn't measured by a career without setbacks; it's measured by the courage to keep showing up.

About Eric SwansonEric Swanson is the City Manager of Phoenix, Oregon, and a retired Colonel in the U.S. Air Force Reserve with more than three decades of leadership in public service. Throughout his municipal career, Eric has served communities in Maine, North Carolina, South Dakota, and Oregon, leading organizations through political transitions, natural disasters, economic challenges, and long-term community development. Following the devastating 2020 Almeda Fire, he helped guide Phoenix's recovery by securing millions of dollars in grant funding and rebuilding critical infrastructure. Drawing from both military and municipal leadership, Eric is passionate about resilient leadership, public service, and helping communities thrive through trust, adaptability, and unwavering commitment.

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, executive coach, and President of HaltingWinter Municipal Solutions. As host of The HaltingWinter Podcast, he shines a spotlight on the people behind local government, sharing the inspiring stories of city and county leaders from across the nation to elevate the profession, encourage those who serve, and inspire the next generation to pursue meaningful careers in public service.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethwinterhalter
• Website: https://www.HaltingWinter.com