Shows
EngagingCommunitiesSeason 2, Episode 8: Designing Strong Engagement with Vince VerlaanIn this episode, host Kelly Hickler talks with engagement and facilitation expert Vince Verlaan about what “strong engagement” really means and why it matters. Drawing on 25 years of experience across city planning, sustainability, and organizational development, Vince shares insights on moving beyond check-the-box consultation, preparing organizations internally before engaging the public, and designing engagement processes that are genuinely relational. The conversation explores the IAP2 spectrum, facilitation in high-conflict environments, and how engagement plays a critical role in addressing complex challenges like climate change, budgeting, and long-term community decision-making.
2025-12-1845 minEngagingCommunitiesSeason 2, Episode 7: Human First Messaging with Katie EvansIn this episode of EngagingCommunities, host Kelly Hickler talks with Katie Evans, Senior Communications Strategist at Woodard & Curran, about what it really means to make public communication human-centered — from translating technical jargon into plain language to running effective listening sessions that build trust.They dive into:- How to turn required notices into meaningful messages- The art of listening without defending- Why every project should start with impact- Creative ways to boost participation (yes, food helps!)If you’ve ever struggled to get people to care, show up, or u...
2025-11-1237 minEngagingCommunitiesSeason 2, Episode 6: Grounded Leadership with Abe HermanOn this episode of EngagingCommunities, join host Kelly Hickler as she chats with Abe Herman, the outgoing mayor of Grand Junction, Colorado — and possibly the only rock climbing mayor you’ll meet. Abe shares how he went from outdoor educator and small business owner to elected office, and how he’s navigated community engagement as a policymaker without a traditional planning background.We dive into the challenges of balancing vocal public feedback with broad community needs, navigating polarized conversations with respect, and rolling out a controversial traffic calming pilot in Grand Junction’s award-winning downtown. Abe brings honesty...
2025-08-071h 04EngagingCommunitiesSeason 2, Episode 5: Community Driven Design With Nora Bland and Laura DohertyWelcome to the very first in-person episode of EngagingCommunities (formerly known as EngagingCities Fireside Chats) the official podcast of the APA Community Engagement Interest Group.Join host Kelly Hickler as she chats with Nora Bland and Laura Doherty from Cushing Terrell, a multidisciplinary design firm based in Denver. Together, they explore what community driven design really looks like in practice, from creative outreach methods to project wins (and missteps) that shaped better outcomes.Don’t forget to join the Interest Group at https://apacommunityengagement.org It’s free and open to all!
2025-06-1822 min
The Everyday PM: Project Management Principles for Your Everyday LifeLean Six Sigma Black Belt vs Project Management ProfessionalOne aspect I love about being a project manager is that there is a plethora of certifications available to us. As a life-long learner, I am a proponent of using education to elevate our understanding of project management fundamentals. Of the certifications and degrees available, there is a long-standing debate between the Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (LSSBB) and Project Management Professional (PMP®).
Which is better? Which will help me advance my career? To answer these questions and provide insight into each certification, I am excited to welcome to The Everyday PM Podcast, Christina Olivarria and Kelly H...
2022-03-0732 min