People Worth Caring About

Zach Cram, President of Rehab Services at Rehab Strategies, and Devon Cram, Chief Financial Officer at The Strategies, share the story of building a clinician-led, family-owned long-term care organization in Indiana. They reflect on growing up in nursing homes, taking the risk to purchase facilities during COVID, and why putting patient care and community first shapes every decision they make. The conversation explores leadership, succession, culture, and the unseen people who make high-quality care possible. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 02:56 ChatGPT helped them identify and pursue media opportunities. 04:24 A clinician-owned model shapes every care decision. 06:24 Clinical experience informs leadership across the organization. 07:46 Finance and operations require constant collaboration. 11:28 Patient-first care guides business strategy. 15:38 Staffing demands constant availability and accountability. 17:11 Running facilities requires managing countless vendors. 23:12 Investing in staff growth creates internal experts. 27:33 Celebrating employees strengthens culture and retention. Resources Mentioned: Zach Cram https://www.linkedin.com/in/zach-cram-a95881222/ Rehab Strategies https://www.linkedin.com/company/rehab-strategies Devon Cram https://www.linkedin.com/in/devon-cram-mba-hfa-963368185/ The Strategies | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/thestrategies/ The Strategies | Website http://www.thestrategies.net Thank you for listening to “People Worth Caring About.” If you found value in this episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star rating to help others discover these important stories. For more information and to connect with our guests, visit PeopleWorthCaringAbout.com. #HealthcareLeadership #SkilledTrades #PeopleWorthCaringAbout

On this episode, Peter Murphy Lewis and Jalene Carpenter are joined by Rep. Mike Flood, Member of the United States Congress, who represents Nebraska’s First Congressional District. A lifelong broadcaster and former Nebraska state legislator, Mike brings a deeply personal and practical lens to public service, shaped by decades of listening to constituents and showing up in local communities. Mike reflects on why town halls still matter, how media can bring people together in moments of crisis, and what responsible stewardship looks like when it comes to Medicaid and public spending. From his “Quarantine Tonight” television show during COVID to difficult conversations around health care access, Mike shares why trust, accountability, and human connection remain at the center of leadership. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 03:16 Creative programming can sustain community connection during public crises. 04:06 Nostalgic entertainment offers comfort for isolated and widowed older adults. 05:40 Smart travel strategies make constant work-related flying more sustainable. 07:00 In-person forums remain essential tools for civic accountability today. 08:39 Targeted Medicaid reforms aim to preserve long-term funding sustainability. 09:18 Work expectations increase fairness for taxpayers funding public health care. Resources Mentioned: Rep. Mike Flood https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-flood-72a5a262/ United States Congress | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/u-s-house-of-representatives/ United States House of Representatives | Website https://www.house.gov/ House Financial Services Committee | Website https://financialservices.house.gov/ Thank you for listening to “People Worth Caring About.” If you found value in this episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star rating to help others discover these important stories. For more information and to connect with our guests, visit PeopleWorthCaringAbout.com. #HealthcareLeadership #SkilledTrades #PeopleWorthCaringAbout

Nash Mahupete, President and CEO of QLI, shares a deeply personal journey that begins in Zimbabwe and leads to a 25-year career inside one organization. He reflects on arriving in the US as an immigrant, starting as a CNA with no intention of staying in health care, and slowly discovering the meaning of mission, community, and leadership. Nash opens up about grief, regret, impostor syndrome, and the moments that reshaped how he views people, work, and responsibility. His story is not about titles, but about learning when to speak up, how to serve others with dignity, and why believing in people changes everything. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 04:52 Leaving your home country to seek better opportunities requires courage. 08:56 Personal connection transforms work from being transactional to deeply meaningful. 11:20 A clear organizational mission attracts and connects talented team members. 13:28 Self-doubt can be reframed using supportive mentors and repeated success experiences. 16:00 Nash’s grandmother taught him that unconditional care creates loyal communities. 19:16 Your past circumstances do not determine your future success trajectory. 30:24 An organizational mission should encompass all stakeholders, not just customers. 34:32 Teach children values repeatedly, like doing things right the first time. Resources Mentioned: Nash Mahupete https://www.linkedin.com/in/mahupete/ QLI | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/qlirehab/ QLI | Website https://qliomaha.com/ Thank you for listening to “People Worth Caring About.” If you found value in this episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star rating to help others discover these important stories. For more information and to connect with our guests, visit PeopleWorthCaringAbout.com. #HealthcareLeadership #SkilledTrades #PeopleWorthCaringAbout

In this episode, hosts Peter Murphy Lewis and Jalene Carpenter sit down with the heart and soul of The Grace Space, a hospice facility in Nebraska. Kelly Sparr, the founder who spent seven years bringing her vision to life, and Jace Cooley, a dedicated CNA turned nursing student, discuss the profound beauty found in end-of-life care. From the unconventional path Jace took from installing sprinklers to guarding souls, to the vital role of Pickles the therapy dog, this conversation reframes hospice as a place of deep human connection, dignity, and even joy. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 03:12 Documentary episodes help comfort families from long distances. 07:53 Seeing oneself on screen reveals personal communication strengths. 11:01 CNA work is a challenging yet rewarding career. 17:40 Pickles the dog provides comfort that humans cannot. 21:11 Employee retention requires personalized connection and genuine listening. 25:00 End-of-life care is a raw and vulnerable privilege. 27:47 Education helps normalize death as a beautiful transition. Resources Mentioned: Kelly Sparr https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-sparr-895284102/ Jace Cooley https://www.linkedin.com/in/jace-cooley-07301a389/ The Grace Space | Website https://thegracespace.com/ Southlake Village Rehab | Website https://www.southlakevillagerehab.com/ Thank you for listening to “People Worth Caring About.” If you found value in this episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star rating to help others discover these important stories. For more information and to connect with our guests, visit PeopleWorthCaringAbout.com. #HealthcareLeadership #HospiceCare #PeopleWorthCaringAbout

Steven Boulware, Managing Partner of Priority Management Group, shares his journey and leadership insights from the world of long-term care. As a licensed nursing facility administrator, he values the daily, hands-on satisfaction of solving problems for residents and their families. Steven discusses the unexpectedly non-boring nature of the sector, the philosophy of taking action over seeking perfection, and the essential value of putting resident happiness and safety first. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 02:57 The flat management model empowers administrators over corporate rules. 05:46 Hard work and dedication earn respect in a family business. 07:54 Long-term care stays interesting because every day brings new challenges. 08:59 A good plan started today beats a perfect plan delayed. 12:26 Resident happiness and safety come before everything else. Resources Mentioned: Priority Management Group | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/priority-management-group/ Priority Management | Website https://prioritymgt.com/ Thank you for listening to “People Worth Caring About.” If you found value in this episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star rating to help others discover these important stories. For more information and to connect with our guests, visit PeopleWorthCaringAbout.com. #HealthcareLeadership #SkilledTrades #PeopleWorthCaringAbout

Peter Murphy Lewis and Jalene Carpenter are joined by Philip Scalo, Founder and Chairman of Bartley Healthcare and Chairman of Preferred Care Management. An attorney who began his career representing health-care clients, Phil pivoted in the 1980s to build a better model for long-term care, founding Bartley Healthcare in 1984. He has grown it into one of New Jersey's most awarded senior living organizations, spanning skilled nursing, rehab, assisted living, memory care, hospice, and home care. Phil shares his perspective on the industry's big wins, the fight for regulatory relief, and the formative moments that have shaped his leadership philosophy. He discusses the critical role of the AHCA in supporting its members and the importance of changing the public perception of the entire long-term care sector. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 03:24 Building a better care model was the best way to argue for better care. 06:08 Quality senior care is found even in rural communities across the country. 08:20 Representing long-term care professionals is a great honor for leadership. 11:00 Industry-wide legal action requires uniting diverse state perspectives. 13:28 Surviving existential threats requires unity around a great mission. 16:16 Documentary storytelling effectively portrays the reality of long-term care. 19:08 The care profession must combat the feeling of being "just a" worker. 23:56 Cautious optimism for more appropriate regulations. 27:40 Success in any field is built on hard work, passion, and humble aspiration. 37:52 Every team member makes a difference and has great, valued potential. Resources Mentioned: Philip Scalo https://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-scalo-3350b210/ Bartley Healthcare | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/bartley-healthcare-nursing-rehabilitation/ Bartley Healthcare | Website https://bartleyhealthcare.com/ Preferred Care Management | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/preferred-care-health-centers/ Preferred Care Management | Website https://preferredcarehc.com/ “Getting to Yes” by Roger Fisher and William Ury https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Yes-Negotiating-Agreement-Without/dp/0143118757 Thank you for listening to “People Worth Caring About.” If you found value in this episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star rating to help others discover these important stories. For more information and to connect with our guests, visit PeopleWorthCaringAbout.com. #HealthcareLeadership #SkilledTrades #PeopleWorthCaringAbout

Peggy Abels, Director of Health Sciences at the University of Nebraska at Kearney, joins Peter to share her 30-year journey guiding students into health care careers. She discusses her rural roots, the growing needs across Nebraska, and the programs UNK and UNMC have built to strengthen the state’s health care workforce. Peggy walks through the creation of Health Science Explorers and the Kearney Health Opportunities Program (KHOP), explaining how these initiatives spark interest early, support first-generation students, and help rural communities build long-term access to care. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 01:48 Seeing rural roots shape her path toward health care service. 02:50 Nebraska’s rising need for a stronger rural health care workforce. 05:29 Health care education remains hands-on despite industry shifts. 07:17 KHOP supports rural students from college to eventual practice. 08:24 Nebraska builds a uniquely comprehensive health care workforce pipeline. Resources Mentioned: Peggy Abels https://www.linkedin.com/in/peggy-abels-396557162/ University of Nebraska at Kearney | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/school/university-of-nebraska-at-kearney University of Nebraska at Kearney – Health Sciences | Website https://www.unk.edu/academics/health_sciences/ Kearney Health Opportunities Program (KHOP) https://www.unk.edu/academics/health_sciences/kearney-health-opportunities-program.php Thank you for listening to “People Worth Caring About.” If you found value in this episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star rating to help others discover these important stories. For more information and to connect with our guests, visit PeopleWorthCaringAbout.com. #HealthcareLeadership #SkilledTrades #PeopleWorthCaringAbout

On this episode, host Peter Murphy Lewis talks with Jessica Guerrero, Administrator of Emerald Nursing and Rehab Lakeview, whose journey from a teenage dietary aide to a respected health care leader is as inspiring as it is heartfelt. Jessica shares her path from working at Subway to building a culture of compassion and belonging within her facility. She opens up about overcoming fear and imposter syndrome, leading through vulnerability, and transforming a once-struggling workplace into a true home for residents and staff alike. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 01:24 A coworker’s encouragement sparked passion for a health care career path. 03:01 Imposter syndrome nearly cost Jessica her administrator position twice. 03:57 Perfectionism as a manager can scare employees away. 05:08 Building a team with aligned values fills organizational gaps automatically. 06:34 Creating a genuine culture can transform the workplace environment and satisfaction. 10:32 Therapy can help leaders recognize their accomplishments and overcome self-doubt. 12:52 Having amazing energy can bless other people in long-term care. Resources Mentioned: Jessica Guerrero https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-guerrero-lnha-744b83160/ Emerald Nursing and Rehab Lakeview |Website https://emeraldlakeview.com/ Thank you for listening to “People Worth Caring About.” If you found value in this episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star rating to help others discover these important stories. For more information and to connect with our guests, visit PeopleWorthCaringAbout.com. #HealthcareLeadership #SkilledTrades #PeopleWorthCaringAbout

On this episode, host Peter Murphy Lewis talks with Benjamin VanDiest, a sophomore at the University of Nebraska Kearney and Certified Nursing Assistant at Mount Carmel Home. Benjamin shares his journey from a high school CNA class to discovering a deep passion for caregiving. He reflects on lessons learned from the elderly residents he serves and the personal inspiration he draws from his own family’s experience with caregiving. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 01:16 Taking a CNA class in high school sparked an early interest in health care. 03:00 Overcoming first-day nerves and gaining confidence through mentorship. 04:20 Discovering the deeper purpose behind caregiving and connection. 05:32 Learning wisdom from residents who lived through major historical moments. 06:36 Becoming more patient and gentle through daily interactions with elders. 07:32 Drawing inspiration from his grandmother’s compassion as a lifelong caregiver. Resources Mentioned: Mount Carmel Home | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/mountcarmelhome/ Mount Carmel Home | Website https://mountcarmelhome.org/ Thank you for listening to “People Worth Caring About.” If you found value in this episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star rating to help others discover these important stories. For more information and to connect with our guests, visit PeopleWorthCaringAbout.com. #HealthcareLeadership #SkilledTrades #PeopleWorthCaringAbout

In this episode, Victoria Arrowsmith, a Certified Nursing Assistant of Brookestone of Papillion, shares her inspiring journey from high school science teacher to health care professional. Her career transition during the COVID-19 pandemic led her to discover profound purpose through patient care and human connection in long-term care settings. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 02:40 Career transitions can open unexpected paths to purpose. 03:00 Global crises can catalyze meaningful personal transformations. 03:52 Genuine human connections form health care’s most powerful foundation. 04:44 Small compassionate gestures create lasting impacts on patients. 06:12 True leaders inspire others to pursue growth opportunities. 06:40 Thoughtful acts of kindness matter most during grief. 07:52 Confronting mortality reminds us to cherish loved ones. 08:40 Early exposure to compassionate care can shape vocations. Resources Mentioned: Brookestone of Papillion | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/papillion-manor/ Brookestone of Papillion | Website https://www.brookestonepapillion.com Thank you for listening to “People Worth Caring About.” If you found value in this episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star rating to help others discover these important stories. For more information and to connect with our guests, visit PeopleWorthCaringAbout.com. #HealthcareLeadership #WasteManagement #SkilledTrades #PeopleWorthCaringAbout

On this episode, host Peter Murphy Lewis talks with Collette Mieres, Executive Director of Ovation Heartwood Preserve. She shares how early lessons in compassion shaped her leadership in senior living and how creativity, empathy, and everyday acts of kindness drive meaningful care for both residents and staff. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 01:01 Family influences can shape a lifelong commitment to care. 04:17 Love and care for patients make a lasting impact. 06:38 Creativity in daily activities enhances connection and joy. 08:44 Treating others like family builds trust and belonging. 12:44 Leadership is about being on the floor with your team. Resources Mentioned: Collette Mieres https://www.linkedin.com/in/collette-mieres-ala-lpn-cdp-cmdcp-697774162/ Ovation Heartwood Preserve | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/ovation-heartwood-preserve/ Ovation Heartwood Preserve | Website https://ovationheartwoodpreserve.com/ Thank you for listening to “People Worth Caring About.” If you found value in this episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star rating to help others discover these important stories. For more information and to connect with our guests, visit PeopleWorthCaringAbout.com. #HealthcareLeadership #WasteManagement #SkilledTrades #PeopleWorthCaringAbout

In this episode, Madison Guthrie, Director of Safety and Environmental Services of Vetter Senior Living, shares how attentive leadership and hands-on experience across different roles can drive meaningful change in senior living environments. The discussion reveals practical strategies for building trust, improving teamwork, and inspiring personal growth within care communities. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 01:33 Getting to know multiple facilities provides new operational insights.​ 02:09 Different team communication styles inspire process improvements.​ 03:45 Listening to diverse perspectives fosters open-minded leadership.​ 06:33 Interdepartmental efforts build dignity and strong teamwork daily.​ 07:42 Valuing team members through unique communication truly motivates.​ 09:09 Career growth opportunities exist at every level in care. Resources Mentioned: Madison Guthrie https://www.linkedin.com/in/madison-guthrie-9a368b222/ Vetter Senior Living| LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/vetter-senior-living/ Vetter Senior Living | Website https://www.vetterseniorliving.com/ Thank you for listening to “People Worth Caring About.” If you found value in this episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star rating to help others discover these important stories. For more information and to connect with our guests, visit PeopleWorthCaringAbout.com. #HealthcareLeadership #WasteManagement #SkilledTrades #PeopleWorthCaringAbout

In this heartfelt episode, Chris Moninger of Brookestone View shares his journey as a medication aide, his experiences living with disabilities, and how those challenges helped him build meaningful bonds with residents. Chris discusses mentorship, emotional resilience, rural community life, and receiving the NPV award for exceptional care. He offers practical advice for young caregivers starting in long-term care. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 02:30 Early mentorship helps shape lifelong values in care. 04:50 Personal challenges create deeper empathy for others. 06:14 Overcoming adversity can bring a renewed perspective on life. 06:53 Everyday acts of service provide lasting fulfillment. 07:50 Teamwork and recognition motivate consistent improvement. 09:01 Listening to stories helps form meaningful connections. Resources Mentioned: Brookestone View | Website https://www.brookestoneview.com/ Thank you for listening to “People Worth Caring About.” If you found value in this episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star rating to help others discover these important stories. For more information and to connect with our guests, visit PeopleWorthCaringAbout.com. #HealthcareLeadership #WasteManagement #SkilledTrades #PeopleWorthCaringAbout

On this episode, host Peter Murphy Lewis talks with Greg Ernst, Vice President of Operations at Dial Senior Living and Chair of the Nebraska Healthcare Assisted Living Association. Greg shares his path from an uncertain start in healthcare to finding lasting purpose in senior living. He reflects on the daily rewards of connecting with residents, the importance of authenticity in leadership, and the impact of often-overlooked frontline caregivers. His story highlights the heart of long-term care and why people matter most. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 02:40 Discovering senior living through an unexpected internship. 05:10 How a resident’s gratitude for housekeeping revealed a daily impact. 09:23 Residents carry wisdom, vitality, and life experience. 12:42 Senior living offers unmatched daily career satisfaction, often in simple ways. 15:41 Overnight and dining staff often go unseen. 18:15 Leadership values are shaped by the memory of a grandmother’s selflessness. Resources Mentioned: Greg Ernst https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-ernst-46b3502b/ Dial Senior Living | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/dial-senior-living/ Dial Senior Living | Website https://dialseniorliving.com Thank you for listening to “People Worth Caring About.” If you found value in this episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star rating to help others discover these important stories. For more information and to connect with our guests, visit PeopleWorthCaringAbout.com. #HealthcareLeadership #WasteManagement #SkilledTrades #PeopleWorthCaringAbout

On this episode, host Peter Murphy Lewis talks to Maria Hudson, Senior Lead Administrative Assistant at the Good Samaritan Society. Maria shares how community involvement, frontline advocacy, and powerful resident experiences are reshaping perceptions of long-term care. From fishing trips to policy discussions in Washington, Maria highlights both the challenges and the joys of senior living today. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 02:52 Sitting with senators to share frontline stories of long-term care. 04:52 How COVID reshaped the workforce and made hiring in rural care difficult. 06:42 Why community and staff are equally responsible for elder care. 07:38 The joy and excitement of a 98-year-old’s first fishing trip. 09:37 How showing the docuseries changed local views of nursing homes. 10:47 Using storytelling and visuals to reassure new residents and their families. Resources Mentioned: Maria Hudson https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-hudson-25692a12a/ Good Samaritan Society | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/good-samaritan-sanford-health/ Good Samaritan Society | Website https://www.good-sam.com/ Thank you for listening to “People Worth Caring About.” If you found value in this episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star rating to help others discover these important stories. For more information and to connect with our guests, visit PeopleWorthCaringAbout.com. #HealthcareLeadership #WasteManagement #SkilledTrades #PeopleWorthCaringAbout

Host Peter Murphy Lewis is joined on this episode by Danielle Rasmussen, Life Enrichment Coordinator at Linden Court. Danielle shares her journey from librarian to life enrichment, her high-energy approach to engaging residents, and the meaningful stories that shape her work in senior living. From celebrating 104th birthdays to helping a 101-year-old find renewed purpose, she illustrates the power of connection, dignity, and joy in long-term care. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 01:38 Feeling grateful to get paid for making residents happy. 06:02 Giving a 101-year-old resident a sense of purpose as her “assistant.” 06:55 Discovering a resident’s hidden gift of knowing the day of the week for any date. 08:31 Realizing preconceptions can blind us to someone’s true brilliance. 10:38 Hosting a 104th birthday that left residents in tears of joy. 11:42 Encouraging young people to consider the rewards of long-term care. Resources Mentioned: Danielle Rasmussen https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-rasmussen-314b0b132/ Linden Court | Website https://www.lindencourt.com/ Thank you for listening to “People Worth Caring About.” If you found value in this episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star rating to help others discover these important stories. For more information and to connect with our guests, visit PeopleWorthCaringAbout.com. #HealthcareLeadership #WasteManagement #SkilledTrades #PeopleWorthCaringAbout

Brenda Van Leer, Program Director at Grandview Assisted and Independent Living, shares how she stepped into long-term care and quickly built programs that stand out statewide. In just over a year, she introduced fresh ideas that have energized residents, strengthened community partnerships, and earned national recognition. From launching a traveling balloon volleyball league to hosting Nebraska volleyball coach John Cook, Brenda shows how creativity and teamwork can shape a thriving culture. She also reflects on how daily connections with residents have reshaped her patience, perspective, and sense of purpose — insights that matter to anyone leading in senior care. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 04:12 Why assisted living is described as a feel-good job. 07:33 The value of leaning on experienced teammates. 11:10 Launching a balloon volleyball league across facilities. 14:09 Turning activities into spirited competition that residents love. 15:13 When national sports figures engage senior communities. 19:19 Why volunteering is the best entry into long-term care. Resources Mentioned: Grandview Assisted and Independent Living | Website https://www.grandviewassisted.com/ Thank you for listening to “People Worth Caring About.” If you found value in this episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star rating to help others discover these important stories. For more information and to connect with our guests, visit PeopleWorthCaringAbout.com. #HealthcareLeadership #WasteManagement #SkilledTrades #PeopleWorthCaringAbout

On this episode, host Peter Murphy Lewis talks to Jenni Torres, Education Service Coordinator at Nebraska Health Care Association. Jenny shares how her first year in the role has focused on outreach, education, and supporting students from diverse communities across Nebraska. She highlights her work connecting schools and agencies, building CNA pathways, and promoting programs like their Spanish track to better serve the local Latino community. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 02:33 Experience working with diverse populations adds value to health care education efforts. 03:27 Community engagement is highlighted through events like the Latino Festival in Lincoln. 03:45 Students retaking certification exams show resilience when supported through challenges. 5:44 Around 20% of students enrolled in the Nebraska Health Care Association education program have English as a second language. 6:50 Patience and passion are key requirements for success in the long-term care industry. 8:20 Not all cultures are familiar with long-term health care facilities. It's important to know about the resources available in your community. Resources Mentioned: Nebraska Health Care Association | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/nebraska-health-care-association/ Nebraska Health Care Association | Website https://nehca.org Thank you for listening to “People Worth Caring About.” If you found value in this episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star rating to help others discover these important stories. For more information and to connect with our guests, visit PeopleWorthCaringAbout.com. #HealthcareLeadership #WasteManagement #SkilledTrades #PeopleWorthCaringAbout

On this episode, host Peter Murphy Lewis talks to Julie Masters, Professor of Gerontology at the University of Nebraska Omaha. Julie shares her passion for reframing how we view aging and why education, community design, and storytelling are essential to creating meaningful experiences for older adults. She reflects on shifts in gerontology programs, her own experiences navigating health care systems, and the urgent need to make communities more age-friendly. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 01:54 Nobody hopes to end up in long-term care. 06:07 COVID created a lasting stigma around aging. 08:09 Students find inspiration in grandparents’ active lives. 14:01 Health care systems can be difficult for older adults to navigate. 15:37 Simple design changes make environments age-friendly. 18:19 Older adults grow less alike as they age. 22:40 Safe spaces encourage storytelling and dignity. 26:40 Meaning and purpose remain possible at any age. Resources Mentioned: Julie Masters https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-masters-1903b69/ University of Nebraska Omaha | LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/school/unomaha/ University of Nebraska Omaha | Website https://www.unomaha.edu/ “The Book of Charlie” by David Von Drehle https://www.amazon.com/Book-Charlie-Remarkable-American-109-Year-Old/dp/1476773920 Thank you for listening to “People Worth Caring About.” If you found value in this episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star rating to help others discover these important stories. For more information and to connect with our guests, visit PeopleWorthCaringAbout.com. #HealthcareLeadership #WasteManagement #SkilledTrades #PeopleWorthCaringAbout

On this episode, host Peter Murphy Lewis talks to Sean Baessler, Assistant Executive Director of Elk Ridge Village. Sean shares how a part-time job at 17 grew into a two-decade career in senior care, the mentors who shaped his path, and the small daily actions that make a big difference in community life. From pranks with residents to board-level leadership in Nebraska, Sean reflects on the people and moments that defined his calling. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Introduction. 02:59 Small gestures can mean the world. 04:24 Helping seniors live their best life. 07:52 A 90-year-old plans a prank. 11:05 Nothing is ever as bad as it seems. 12:48 Flexibility matters more than perfect planning. 14:30 Serving seniors beyond one community. 15:25 Remembering residents are still themselves. Thank you for listening to “People Worth Caring About.” If you found value in this episode, please subscribe and leave a 5-star rating to help others discover these important stories. For more information and to connect with our guests, visit PeopleWorthCaringAbout.com. #HealthcareLeadership #WasteManagement #SkilledTrades #PeopleWorthCaringAbout