Good Government Institute
The Good Government Institute
From acclaimed podcast to national nonprofit—The Good Government
Institute strengthens civic leadership, supports innovation, and helps
rebuild trust in public service across America.
About the Institute
What began as a podcast spotlighting smart, impactful public
leaders is now becoming something bigger—and bolder.
Founded in 2024 and based in Fogelsville, Pennsylvania, the
Good Government Institute (GGI) is a 501(c)(3)
nonprofit dedicated to civic education, public-sector innovation,
and strengthening trust in local government.
We expand the mission of
The Good Government Show by turning stories into
strategies—helping communities learn from proven ideas and amplifying
the public servants behind them.
Dave Martin · Co-Founder & Host
Why This Matters
Civic trust is fragile. Public-sector burnout is rising. Yet
communities across the country rely on local leaders to keep us
safe, housed, educated, and moving forward.
We believe government can still be a force for good.
GGI focuses on solutions—not cynicism—by highlighting real-world
examples of government done right and giving leaders the tools to
replicate success.
good government possible.”
Jim Ludlow · Founder
Our Mission
To champion good governance by educating the public, empowering
local government leaders, and elevating stories of effective public
service that strengthen communities across America.
Our Vision
A more engaged, informed, and optimistic democracy—rebuilt from the
local level through transparency, accountability, innovation, and
trust.
What We Do
GGI expands the reach of The Good Government Show through
programs that turn inspiration into action:
Civic Education & Public Engagement
Accessible content, explainers, and workshops that help communities
understand how government works—and how to make it work better.
Leadership Development
Bootcamps and hands-on training for mayors, commissioners, city and
county staff, and rising public-sector leaders.
Youth & Student Initiatives
Student journalism labs, civic storytelling projects, and mentorship
pathways that introduce young people to careers in public service.
Partnerships with Local Governments
Collaborations with cities, counties, school districts, and
statewide associations to share best practices and scale what works.
Recognition & Awards
The Good Government Public Service Award honors leaders who deliver
transparency, creativity, and measurable results for their
communities.
From Podcast to National Platform
The Institute is the next natural step in the evolution of
The Good Government Show.
For years, the podcast has featured mayors, commissioners, city
managers, and agency directors who deliver real results for their
communities. Over time, one message became clear: sharing stories was
just the beginning. Leaders were asking for help, training, and a
network. Students wanted guidance. Communities wanted solutions they
could trust.
The Good Government Institute is our answer to that call—a place where
stories become strategies, and where leaders, students, and citizens can
learn directly from the best examples in public service.
Leadership
David Snyder
Executive producer, civic leader, and architect of the Institute’s
national strategy, partnerships, and program development.
Dave Martin
Journalist and host of the award-winning podcast, bringing decades
of storytelling experience and a commitment to highlighting
exceptional public servants.
Jim Ludlow
Author, entrepreneur, and longtime advocate for public-sector
excellence who spearheaded the Institute’s launch and guides its
mission and vision.
Partners & Collaborators
GGI works with a growing network of organizations committed to better
governance and civic engagement, including:
- State leagues of cities and towns
- National education and civic organizations
- County and municipal leadership associations
- Universities and journalism programs
- Foundations and mission-driven funders
- Local governments across the United States
(Partner logos can be featured here as relationships are formalized.)
Get Involved
Whether you’re a public official, student, funder, or engaged citizen,
there’s a place for you in the Good Government Institute.
Support Our Work
Your contribution helps expand civic education, strengthen local
leadership, and highlight the public servants who make democracy
work.
Partner With Us
Cities, counties, agencies, nonprofits, and funders—let’s
collaborate to bring good-government ideas to communities
everywhere.
Students & Young Leaders
Explore opportunities in journalism, public service, storytelling,
and civic engagement through our student labs and future internship
programs.
in Fogelsville, Pennsylvania.