Forged in Fire: LGBTQ+ Leadership · 2026-03-02 · 49 min
“We don’t have Democratic potholes or Republican snowplows.” Milwaukee Alderman Peter Burgelis joins Forged in Fire to talk about leadership where it matters most: the neighborhoods we live in. In this episode, Dr. Liz Cavallaro and guest co-host Eduardo Placer explore leadership in local government, public service, and LGBTQ representation in politics through Peter’s experience serving the people of Milwaukee. From knocking on thousands of doors to pointing out potholes on a neighbor’s street, Peter reflects on leading in one of the most immediate and accountable forms of government. Local office, he reminds us, is not about party labels. It is about solving problems and earning trust. Peter also shares how his immigrant roots, his grandmother’s quiet wisdom, and his early career in community lending shaped his belief that leadership is fundamentally about service. He discusses becoming the first openly LGBTQ elected official on the Milwaukee County Board , launching a recognition effort for LGBTQ leaders, and passing legislation ensuring the Intersex Progress Pride flag flies at city and county buildings during Pride Month.
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