2026 is an incredibly interesting time to be a political communications professional as changing technology, politics, and generational differences have never been more clear.

Outgoing Communications Director at City Hall Michelle Woods Matthews has extensive experience in the field, from working as the spokesperson for former Connecticut State Treasurer Shawn Wooden to reproductive rights work and President Obama's 2012 campaign. Host Jack Pavia and Michelle discuss all of it, from the importance of seeing and hearing from your local government to honing the voice of the Mayor of Norwalk as she works to represent him publicly.

In this special co-host episode of Community Ties, Jack and Romney start the New Year by introducing themselves and sharing how the podcast came to be. They reflect on the experiences that shaped who they are, why local government and community care matter so deeply to them, and what they hope these conversations can spark in Norwalk. With a focus on connection and collaboration, they share their vision for a more engaged and connected city.

In this episode, host Jack Pavia has on Norwalk's first-ever Director of Sustainability and Resilience, Jodi Trendler. They dive into not only her job in City Hall, but her thoughts on the evolution of the environmental movement and the long-term trajectory of ensuring there exists a healthy and habitable planet for all humans to continue to exist on.