Shows
Takis TalkKara Roberson - Government Communications That Work: Strategy, Psychology, and Public TrustShare this episode of Takis TalkGovernment communications is at the heart of this episode, as you sit down with Kara Roberson, Strategic Communications Officer for the City of Wentzville, Missouri, to unpack how a fast‑growing community uses smart messaging, data, and creativity to truly connect with residents. From managing 29 different communication channels to doubling down on branding and social media strategy, this conversation gives practical, real‑world insight into what modern government communications looks like when it’s done with intention, humor, and a deep respect for public service.Episode overviewT...
2026-02-0358 min
Takis TalkHow City Salaries And Benefits Really Stack Up Across CaliforniaShare this episode of Takis TalkEver wonder if your paycheck tells the whole story? We pull back the curtain on compensation with verified California city data and pair it with hard-won career lessons from six standout guests who built opportunities through grit, timing, and intent. From a leader who reverse-engineered his path to a dream job, to a 26-year-old assistant city manager balancing family and ambition, their experiences set the stage for a practical, numbers-first look at value.I walk through what our executive team in Livermore did right: a third-party compensation study that...
2025-12-1618 min
Takis TalkCity Management Lessons - Franc Moufarrej a blueprint for leading with humility and heartShare this episode of Takis TalkA childhood spent dodging sniper fire is a brutal teacher, but it forged one of the calmest leaders we know. Chief Building Official Frank Bufarish joins us to share how growing up in Lebanon’s civil war shaped a perspective that now powers Livermore, California’s forward-looking building division—where empathy, clear thinking, and relentless coordination turn complex projects into community wins.We dive into the real work behind a modern city: early alignment meetings that eliminate rework, juggling code enforcement with plan review and inspections, and shepherding everything from n...
2025-12-0247 min
Takis TalkBreaking the Mold in California Housing – A Conversation with Lee Butler, Director of Planning & Community Development for the City of Santa CruzShare this episode of Takis TalkThis episode of Takis Talk delivers a compelling interview with Lee Butler, Director of Planning and Community Development for the City of Santa Cruz—a pivotal figure propelling one of California’s most dramatic housing turnarounds. Immerse yourself as our host Butler in a vibrant, candid conversation about the tough realities, surprising wins, and visionary leadership shaping one of the nation’s least affordable yet most innovative coastal cities.About the Guest: Lee ButlerLee Butler’s background is woven with decades of experience in planning...
2025-11-1859 min
Takis TalkRecruiting the Right Way: Insights from Christine Martin, Director at Tripepi SmithShare this episode of Takis TalkLeading with Vision: Executive Recruitment, Strategic Planning, and Team Culture in Local GovernmentLocal government leaders are tasked with guiding their communities into a more resilient and vibrant future. The journey from planner to Assistant City Manager—and now, executive recruiter and strategic planner with Tripepi Smith—gives Christine Martin a unique vantage point on what it takes to cultivate leadership, manage change, and build organizations where people thrive. Her story, and her practical advice, provide a modern roadmap for local government professionals who aspire to leave a la...
2025-11-0557 min
Takis TalkRecruiting the Right Way: Insights from Christine Martin, Director at Tripepi SmithIn this episode of Takis Talk, host Greg Diktakis sits down with Christine Martin, Director and Executive Recruiter at Tripepi Smith, to discuss what it really takes to attract and retain top talent in local government.Christine shares her journey from city planner to assistant city manager to recruiting expert, offering candid insights into career growth, leadership skills, and hiring best practices for today’s city and county agencies.Whether you’re an HR professional, department head, or
2025-11-041h 11
Takis TalkWayne Snell - Leadership Rarely Asks Permission When A City Needs You & It DependsShare this episode of Takis TalkBuilding Resilient Communities: A Conversation with Wayne Snell of the City of Irving, TexasEpisode guest: Wayne Snell, Director of Inspections, City of Irving, Texas Host: Greg Diktakis, Takis Talk Podcast IntroductionWhen it comes to shaping safe, thriving cities, few voices are as insightful as Wayne Snell’s. As the Director of Inspections for the City of Irving, Texas, Wayne combines decades of field experience with a forward-thinking approach to...
2025-10-2139 min
Takis TalkJose Madrigal The Art of Intentional Leadership: Lessons from Durango’s City ManagerShare this episode of Takis TalkWhen José Madrigal became City Manager of Durango, Colorado in the middle of a pandemic and following a financial scandal, he faced a mountain of challenges — and not just the literal ones surrounding Durango. In this episode, José shares how he rebuilt trust through transparency, empowered his team with autonomy, and created a culture rooted in authenticity and family-first values.From implementing open financial reporting systems to leading with empathy and intent, José offers a masterclass in modern municipal leadership. We discuss how he balances high performance with humanity, what...
2025-10-0756 min
Takis TalkCode Compliance with Compassion: Ceci Muela on Leading with HeartShare this episode of Takis TalkTakis Talk – Episode with Ceci Muela In this episode of Takis Talk, host Greg Diktakis sits down with Ceci Muela, Interim Deputy Director and Chief Building Official for the City of Oakland, to explore the balance between leadership, community service, and resilience.Ceci shares her journey from single mom to respected leader, drawing inspiration from The Alchemist and Queen Elizabeth I. Together, Greg and Ceci dive into the human side of code enforcement, the art vs. graffiti debate, and the challenges of hoarding, street vending, and ne...
2025-09-231h 00
Takis TalkThe Launch EpisodeShare this episode of Takis TalkNot the same old boring PowerPoint presentation. Take a listen, see what's coming.Connect at TakisTalk.com
2025-06-0801 min