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:

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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.

In Episode 2, host Amanda Wiedenfeld continues her interview with Nicole Gann, MS, SPHR, President & CEO of Juliette Fowler Communities. They discuss the power of words and the importance of continuous personal growth. Nicole shares her unexpected journey into aging services, and the two discuss changing perceptions of aging services and the benefits of living in a community. Nicole shares a powerful moment that has shifted her perspective on aging and emphasizes the value of continual learning and growth.

This episode elevates the conversation with takeaways like:

• Words have power and can be used to uplift or harm ourselves and others.
• Continuous personal growth is essential for personal and professional development.
• The path to a fulfilling career can be unexpected and may lead to unexpected opportunities.
• Living in a community can provide connection and purpose and combat isolation and loneliness.
• Aging brings new experiences and perspectives, and embracing them can lead to personal growth and empathy.

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Episode breakdown: 

• 00:30 | Welcome back and what to expect
• 01:00 | #careislove campaign
• 02:05 | Part 2 of Interview with Nicole Gann
• 03:06 | The power of words
• 04:23 | Revisiting impactful works
• 05:11 | From manufacturing to aging services
• 08:53 | An unexpected path
• 10:15 | This is different 
• 14:08 | Changing perceptions of aging services
• 18:46 | Uplift Aging: Unfiltered
• 25:19 | Wrap up
• 26:20 | Outro

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Special thanks to Nicole Gann, MS, SPHR, and Juliette Fowler Communities in Dallas, Texas!

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

Welcome to the Uplift Aging Podcast's debut episode! Host Amanda Wiedenfeld and special guest Nicole Gann, MS, SPHR, President & CEO of Juliette Fowler Communities, embark on a powerful conversation about the profound journey of aging. 

This episode elevates the conversation on aging by diving into the question, "What is aging, anyway?" and the duo chat about:

• Aging is more than "just getting old"; it is a testament to a life lived and a journey of growth and wisdom.
• It is time to shift the narrative from anti-aging to ageless, celebrating the experiences and lessons that come with age.
• Examining and challenging our own belief systems about aging can help us create a more positive and inclusive perspective.
• Aging is a shared experience that connects people of all ages, and we can learn from and support each other throughout the journey.

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

• 00:00 | Defining aging
• 02:23 | Introducing Nicole Gann
• 03:14 | Starting a movement
• 05:05 | Aging as a shared experience
• 08:18 | Challenging the anti-aging narrative
• 09:17 | Examining belief systems
• 13:33 | Celebrating aging
• 14:42 | Curating a positive perspective
• 17:26 | The importance of knowing yourself and your values
• 22:30 | Embracing the joys and challenges of aging
• 28:36 | Life is 50-50
• 28:51 | Part 2 of This Interview is Coming Soon

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Special thanks to Nicole Gann, MS, SPHR and Juliette Fowler Communities in Dallas, Texas!

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

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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.

Get ready to Uplift Aging! Our first episode drops January 17 - subscribe now.

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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.