In this episode of Bend Don’t Break, Aaron sits down with Cyrus Mooney, Business Development Manager for the City of Bend, whose path from student affairs to civic leadership reflects a deep commitment to service and connection. With roots in Sherwood and a decade in Corvallis, Cyrus brings a rare blend of empathy, adaptability, and strategic insight to Bend’s evolving economic landscape.

They talk about what it means to lead from the middle—liaising between city departments, business associations, and everyday residents—and how Cyrus balances policy work with human relationships. From his early days managing 70 student employees at OSU to his current role shaping Bend’s economic development strategy, Cyrus shares how he stays grounded in purpose while navigating the complexity of civic life.

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