Uplift Aging

Aging services is shaped by people serving in many different roles, including some the public may rarely see or associate with the field. Amanda sits down with healthcare attorney, Cory Macdonald, a member at Reed Claymon and longtime general counsel for LeadingAge Texas, who has spent two decades helping mission-driven aging services organizations navigate growth, change, governance, regulation, and public policy.

Cory reflects on the expertise, mentorship, and relationships with not-for-profit leaders that have shaped his career and deepened his commitment to the field. Together, Amanda and Cory explore what allows organizations to endure for generations, why regulation is both necessary and incredibly complex, how policy decisions affect residents and team members, and what serving as Board Chair of Family Eldercare has taught Cory about leadership from the other side of the boardroom.

Released during National Workforce Development Month, the conversation also highlights the breadth of people and professions that make up aging services and the many ways each of us can contribute to serving older adults and their families.

Highlights

• Cory offers a look at the legal, financial, regulatory, and governance considerations involved in operating and sustaining aging services organizations.
• Longstanding not-for-profit organizations have continually evolved in response to changes in leadership, funding, regulation, and the needs of the people they serve.
• Cory shares why protecting residents and supporting team members both need to be part of conversations about regulation and public policy.
• Cory also provides a helpful breakdown of Medicare and Medicaid and the differences among independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing.

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

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Visit upliftaging.org/episodes for show notes and more information about each episode.

Join the movement as we continue to elevate the conversation on aging by visiting upliftaging.org and following us on our socials @upliftaging.
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The Uplift Aging Podcast is a production of LeadingAge Texas.

Amanda is joined by Nathan Jones and Shelby Rayner of Dash Media (a LeadingAge Texas gold sponsor), a storytelling and social media agency working with aging services providers across the country.

Nathan, a former college football coach, found his way into aging services after a sermon about "the dash" on a gravestone representing the life that is lived. Shelby built her career in senior living sales and went viral making videos with her grandmother, Nanny, before joining Dash.

They share what it takes to tell these stories well and lessons they've learned from interviewing 1000+ people in aging services organizations.

Takeaways

• The dash is the part you get to choose. The dates on either end are fixed. How you live in between is not.
• Storytelling is a system, not a project. Consistent, resident-led storytelling moves the needle on culture, leads, and workforce.
• The best content starts with dignity. The protagonist is always the resident or employee, not the organization.
• How someone feels after sharing their story matters as much as the story itself. 
• Workforce starts with visibility. Many don't know these roles exist in aging services, and telling those stories is how the field grows.

Special Links & Resources

• Dash Media's website
• Dash Media's socials:
  • Instagram
  • YouTube
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • TikTok
• Senior Living Stories — the aggregator account Nathan started in 2017
• Shelby's book: Grandma's in the Phone!
• Two of Shelby's TikTok Videos with "Nanny" that started it all: The Rockettes! & "How do you think you've lived to be 97?"
• LeadingAge Texas Annual Conference & Solutions EXPO — use code: UPLIFT for a discount

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

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Visit upliftaging.org/episodes for show notes and more information about each episode.

Join the movement as we continue to elevate the conversation on aging by visiting upliftaging.org and following us on our socials @upliftaging.
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The Uplift Aging Podcast is a production of LeadingAge Texas.

Amanda sits down with Christie Hinrichs, President & CEO of Frasier (Boulder, Colorado) and LeadingAge (national) Board Chair. From her first job at 15 in a rural Nebraska nursing home to leading one of the most prominent life plan communities in the country, Christie's career is a masterclass in persistence, purpose, and servant leadership.

The conversation covers the thirty years she spent growing into nearly every role at Tabitha in Nebraska, what legacy meant when it was time to go, along with the burnout she navigated and finding renewal at Frasier in Boulder. Christie speaks candidly about the workforce challenges she sees at the national level, the tension between technology and human connection, and her deep conviction that a person's ZIP code should never determine their access to care.

Takeaways

• The concept of "servant leadership" gets thrown around a lot. Christie is someone who actually lives it — and she breaks down what that looks like when the pressure is real, and the resources are thin.
• Legacy is about leaving a place better than you found it and trusting that the mission carries on.
• Burnout is real, even for the most seasoned leaders. The antidote is not going it alone.
• Technology gives us tools. Compassion gives us meaning. Both matter, and neither replaces the other.
• The field acknowledges the access and equity gap of care. Christie pushes further and asks what it will actually take to move the needle.
• Christie will be co-presenting the Closing Keynote with George Linial, President & CEO of LeadingAge Texas to close out the LeadingAge Texas Annual Conference & Solutions EXPO in Austin this May. 

Special Links & Resources

• Frasier — Christie's community in Boulder, CO
• LeadingAge — National association of nonprofit aging services providers
• "Rebel with a Cause: Christie Hinrichs" — McKnight's Long-Term Care News, James M. Berklan, March 2026
• LeadingAge Texas Annual Conference & Solutions EXPO — Register (use promo code: UPLIFT) to attend and see Christie and George Linial close out the 2.5-day event

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

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Visit upliftaging.org/episodes for show notes and more information about each episode.

Join the movement as we continue to elevate the conversation on aging by visiting upliftaging.org and following us on our socials @upliftaging.
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The Uplift Aging Podcast is a production of LeadingAge Texas.

In this episode, Amanda and Mark Lenhard, President & CEO of UMC, continue their discussion recorded at LeadingAge's Annual Meeting in Boston, MA (November 2025), going deeper into Mark's TEDx Talk, "Re-envisioning Aging Successfully," and what it was like to step onto that stage. They explore the power of storytelling in shaping how we understand and communicate about aging, the ripple effect of human connection, and the hope Mark carries for the future of our field and the people in it.

The conversation reflects on what it means to be a "hopeful contrarian," the importance of listening to the people we serve, and why engaging the next generation gives reason for optimism.

Takeaways

• Storytelling is one of the most powerful tools we have in changing the narrative around aging.
• Being a hopeful contrarian means challenging the status quo with possibility, not cynicism.
• The aging population we serve is more vocal, engaged, and expectant than ever before.
• Youth involvement in aging services is a genuine reason for hope.
• Vulnerability in leadership invites others to show up more fully.
• Learning is lifelong — and that's something to celebrate, not fear.
• Connection is at the heart of everything we do in aging services.
• Action, even when messy, moves us further than conversation alone.

Don't miss Part 1 of this conversation (Season 2, Episode 1) if you haven't already — and check out Mark's TEDx talk!

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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: Communities of Faith, RRG, LeadingAge Texas Health Plan, Inc., Value First, and Ziegler.

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Visit upliftaging.org/episodes for show notes and more information about each episode.

Join the movement as we continue to elevate the conversation on aging by visiting upliftaging.org and following us on our socials @upliftaging.
---
The Uplift Aging Podcast is a production of LeadingAge Texas.

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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Visit upliftaging.org/episodes for show notes and more information about each episode.

Join the movement as we continue to elevate the conversation on aging by visiting upliftaging.org and following us on our socials @upliftaging.
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The Uplift Aging Podcast is a production of LeadingAge Texas.

In this episode, Amanda chats with Darrell D. Jones, Lieutenant General, USAF (Ret), President and CEO of Blue Skies of Texas in San Antonio, to discuss the pivotal role of reading in shaping effective leadership in aging services. Darrell shares how his passion for reading has shaped his approach to management and decision-making, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning.

Darrell offers book recommendations and shares some of the most impactful books that have influenced his leadership style. Additionally, he highlights how reading diverse perspectives helps foster an understanding of the complex needs of residents and staff, leading to more empathetic and innovative solutions.

This episode elevates the conversation on aging with takeaways like:

• Leadership Development: How reading can shape and refine leadership skills in aging services.
• Empathy and Innovation: Using diverse reading materials to better understand and serve residents' needs.
• Continuous Learning: The importance of staying current with industry trends and best practices through reading.
• Community Engagement: Leveraging reading programs to enhance resident life and staff development.
• Technology and Reading: Balancing traditional and digital reading methods in senior living communities.

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Special thanks to Darrell Jones and Blue Skies of Texas!

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

The episode was mixed and mastered by Maxwell Franko.

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Visit upliftaging.org/episodes for show notes and more information about each episode.

Join the movement as we continue to elevate the conversation on aging by visiting upliftaging.org and following us on our socials @upliftaging.
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The Uplift Aging Podcast is a production of LeadingAge Texas.

In this episode, Amanda talks with Robin Gonzalez, Director of Resident Health Services & Nurse Navigator at Westminster in Austin, Texas, about the community’s holistic, resident-centered approach to aging services. Robin shares how her social work and nursing background is beneficial in her role as she partners with residents and families to address health and wellness needs with minimal interruption to everyday community life. Robin's role at Westminster helps to reduce the stress often associated with location services and resources as residents' mental or physical needs change. 

Robin also discusses Westminster's focus on employee well-being, highlighting initiatives like the associate's "Treehouse" break room and amenity space where associates have a gaming space, library, gym with locker rooms, and a new lunch room. By prioritizing the care of both residents and staff, Westminster fosters a thriving community where everyone feels supported and valued.

This episode elevates the conversation on aging with takeaways like:

• Holistic Resident Care: Combining social work and nursing for personalized, comprehensive support.
• Community and Belonging: Programs like the Navigator Program enhance resident and family experiences during transitions.
• 8 Dimensions of Wellness: A broad approach to resident well-being, encompassing physical, mental, and spiritual health.
• Employee Well-being: Prioritizing staff health with resources like the Tree House gym to maintain a balanced work environment.
• Sustainable Success: Emphasizing the connection between staff well-being and high-quality resident care.

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Special thanks to Robin Gonzalez and Westminster!

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

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Visit upliftaging.org/episodes for show notes and more information about each episode.

Join the movement as we continue to elevate the conversation on aging by visiting upliftaging.org and following us on our socials @upliftaging.
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The Uplift Aging Podcast is a production of LeadingAge Texas.

In Episode 5, Amanda interviews Dr. Hayley Moseley, Director of Campus Education, and Brian Parman, Director of The Point & Pavilion from CC Young in Dallas, Texas, about how the arts inspire ageless creativity. CC Young's Spirit is Ageless Art and Writing Contest is a premier example of a LeadingAge Texas member celebrating the incredible talents of older adults, challenging societal perceptions, and inspiring a (renewed) appreciation for the arts. Dr. Hayley and Brian highlight the contest's history and purpose, the joy and pride it brings to participants, and the power of creative expression in connecting people and processing life experiences.

Additionally, they also emphasize the importance of creating environments that spark creativity, redefining the perception of art and creativity, and challenging ageist stereotypes. The episode concludes with inspiring stories highlighting the transformative power of creativity.

CLICK HERE to learn more about CC Young's 2024 Spirit is Ageless Art and Writing Contest! CC Young residents and the general public, age 55 and better, are invited to submit their original art and writing creations. Online registration opens Thursday, August 1!

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This episode elevates the conversation with takeaways like:

• Creative expression, such as art and writing, can bring joy, pride, and a sense of purpose to older adults, while also fostering connections and deeper relationships.
• Creativity is not limited to traditional art forms; it can be found in various activities, such as gardening, cooking, and even creating a welcoming environment for others.
• The process of creating is often more important than the final product, as it allows individuals to explore their identity, process emotions, and find meaning.
• Creating environments that encourage and support creativity is essential in promoting the well-being and engagement of older adults.
• Age should not limit one's ability to be creative and have fun; redefining the perception of aging and embracing childlike creativity can lead to a more fulfilling and joyful life.
• Creative expression can be particularly beneficial for individuals with dementia, as it taps into the preserved abilities of the right side of the brain and allows for self-expression and connection.
• Challenging ageist stereotypes and reframing society's view of aging can help promote the value and importance of creativity in older adults.
• Intelligent risk-taking and trying new things, even if they seem unconventional, can lead to transformative experiences and personal growth.

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Special thanks to Dr. Hayley Moseley and Brian Parman & CC Young!

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

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Visit upliftaging.org/episodes for show notes and more information about each episode.

Join the movement as we continue to elevate the conversation on aging by visiting upliftaging.org and following us on our socials @upliftaging.
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The Uplift Aging Podcast is a production of LeadingAge Texas.

Episode 4 features the second part of Amanda's conversation with Gwen Fitzgerald, Director of Public Messaging at LeadingAge (national). They explore how LeadingAge’s Opening Doors to Aging Services initiative is reshaping perceptions about aging services through research and storytelling. 

Discover the profound impact on public trust, government support, and personal insights into navigating aging with dignity and understanding. This episode offers a compelling look at why redefining our approach to aging and aging services is more important than ever. Tune in and join the movement to uplift aging today!

Episode breakdown: 

• 0:04 Intro
• 0:27 Recap of Opening Doors to Aging Services
• 1:23 Impact of Market Research
• 3:44 Personal Reflections and Inclusive Language 
• 6:06 Public Perception and Government Support
• 8:10 Storytelling and Positive Perceptions
• 11:17 Personal Impact and Family Experience 
• 16:21 Understanding the Aging Services Continuum
• 18:29 Telling the Basic Story 
• 19:38 Conclusion and Call to Action
• 19:58 Outro

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Special thanks to Gwen Fitzgerald & LeadingAge!

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

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Visit upliftaging.org/episodes for show notes and more information about each episode.

Join the movement as we continue to elevate the conversation on aging by visiting upliftaging.org and following us on our socials @upliftaging.
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The Uplift Aging Podcast is a production of LeadingAge Texas.

Episode 3 features two guests to help us highlight careers in aging services for #CareersInAging Month. First, Gwen Fitzgerald, Director of Public Messaging at LeadingAge (national), provides insights into the workforce landscape in aging services and touches on the Opening Doors Initiative. (psst! get excited because we'll explore this more in an episode next month!).

Then, Rahim Habib, Managing Principal at CLA, shares his journey into aging services not as a nurse, a social worker, or the like, but as an accountant (yep, you read that right!), offering advice and even sharing a powerful story of family and connection with care teams.

This episode elevates the conversation with takeaways like:

• Aging services offer varied career paths beyond traditional roles.
• Employee investment and growth opportunities are vital.
• Language can counter ageism.
• Personal experiences, like Rahim's, underscore the importance of human connection between families and care teams.

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Episode breakdown: 

• 00:00 | Intro
• 01:38 | Context of Careers in Aging
• 06:32 | Power of Language
• 07:19 | Benefits of Working in Aging Services
• 09:08 | Investing in Employees
• 13:40 | Opening Doors Initiative
• 16:42 | Dynamic Professional Growth Opportunities
• 17:57 | Aging Gratefuly 
• 21:44 | From Intern to Managing Principal at CLA
• 26:00 | Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life.'
• 27:04 | Passion. Purpose. Possibilities.
• 30:13 | Uplift Aging: Unfiltered (grab your tissues!)
• 35:01 | Care Teams: Experts. Skilled. Knowledgable.
• 36:38 | Thank you, thank you!
• 37:18 | Outro

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Special thanks to Gwen Fitzgerald & LeadingAge and Rahim Habib & CLA*.
*Disclaimer: The information herein has been provided by CliftonLarsonAllen LLP for general information purposes only.

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

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Visit upliftaging.org/episodes for show notes and more information about each episode.

Join the movement as we continue to elevate the conversation on aging by visiting upliftaging.org and following us on our socials @upliftaging.
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The Uplift Aging Podcast is a production of LeadingAge Texas.