In this conversation, Amanda and Mark Lenhard, President & CEO of UMC, sit down at LeadingAge's Annual Meeting in Boston, MA (November 2025) to explore the themes of aging, human connection, and leadership within the context of aging services. They discuss Mark's TEDx Talk, "Re-envisioning Aging Successfully," the importance of living abundantly, the role of relationships in being human, and the challenges and opportunities that come with navigating change. 

The conversation emphasizes the significance of vulnerability in leadership and the need for personal growth and community engagement in the aging sector.

Takeaways

• Aging is not just about quantity but quality of life.
• Living abundantly means finding purpose at any age.
• Human connection is essential in the aging process.
• Change can lead to personal and professional growth.
• Leadership in aging services requires vulnerability and openness.
• Family support is crucial for success in leadership roles.
• Networking is key to innovation and collaboration.
• It's important to embrace the unknown and seek help.
• Engagement with the community enhances the aging experience.
• Vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.

Enjoy, and don't miss Part 2 of this conversation (coming soon in Season 2, Episode 2)!

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Special thanks to Mark Lenhard and LeadingAge for making this first on-location episode possible!

This episode is made possible by LeadingAge Texas' Partners: LeadingAge Texas Health Plan, Inc., Value First, and Ziegler; along with LeadingAge Texas' Diamond Sponsor: Communities of Faith, RRG.

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The Uplift Aging Podcast is a production of LeadingAge Texas.