#123 Sioux Falls, South Dakota, US: Leading with Heart and Data

In this episode, Paul TenHaken, Mayor of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, shares his remarkable journey from launching a successful digital marketing business to serving as the leader of the state’s largest city. The conversation explores how entrepreneurial thinking and innovative public-private partnerships have helped manage rapid urban growth, while emphasising the importance of humility, transparency, and bold experimentation in local governance. Paul discusses the impact of the 437 Project and his fitness initiatives on community health and mental wellbeing, addresses the balance between private investment and public responsibility, and reflects on the role of data, servant leadership, and vision in creating truly smart, inclusive cities. Episode Overview: [00:00:59] Teaser Question: “If you had to describe Sioux Falls with just three emojis, which emojis would you use and why?” [00:03:11] Our guest’s background [00:07:16] Bringing marketing and entrepreneurship to leadership [00:11:38] Embracing experimentation and risk in city government [00:17:42] Health and fitness advocacy: the 437 Project and mental health initiatives [00:25:51] Public-private partnerships and the philanthropic role in Sioux Falls [00:29:31] Addressing the challenges of rapid growth and housing affordability [00:33:44] Lessons in leadership and decisions during the COVID-19 pandemic [00:36:13] The importance and challenges of using data in local government [00:39:04] Priorities for the final year in office [00:41:11] Vision for Sioux Falls in 2050 [00:43:49] Encouragement for future leaders and the call for public service [00:46:39] Podcast Segment: “Roll with the punches” rapid-fire this-or-that questions [00:49:06] Ending Question: “To you, what is a Smart City?”   Like our show? Remember to subscribe and rate it! Want to join us for an episode? Fill out the form on our Podcast Page. And for more insights, visit our BABLE Smart Cities Knowledge Hub