Perspectives in Long Term Care

In this episode, host Debbie Stadtler celebrates National Assisted Living Week with Scott Yaeger, regional director of operations at Chelsea Senior Living. Scott reflects on his journey from intern to regional director, the company’s beginnings, and its focus on building strong connections with both employees and residents. Listeners will also hear from Chelsea resident Mo Resner—a lifelong Cubs fan, former player and coach, and co...

In this episode, host Debbie Stadtler chats with Avi Olitzky, president and principal consultant at Olitzky Consulting Group, about navigating conflict in the workplace. Avi unpacks the essential role of tools, trust, and structure in fostering productive conversations and psychological safety. He shares practical skills—like active listening, empathy, humility, and emotional regulation—alongside proven frameworks. The conversation...

In this episode, host Debbie Stadtler sits down with Mark Klyczek, FACHE, president and CEO of Virginia Health Services, to explore how apprenticeships are helping solve healthcare’s workforce challenges. Mark shares highlights from his career and explains how structured, supportive apprenticeship programs are creating meaningful career paths, boosting retention, and attracting diverse talent—including military families. He also of...

In this episode, host Debbie Stadtler is joined by Jalene Carpenter, president and CEO of the Nebraska Healthcare Association, and Zach Shamberg, president and CEO of the Pennsylvania Healthcare Association, about the pressing challenges and emerging opportunities in long-term care. Jalene shares Nebraska’s innovative approaches to workforce development, including licensing reform, hybrid training models, and early engagement strat...

In this episode, host Debbie Stadtler is joined by Kevin Dean, a security consultant and Air Force Intelligence veteran. They discuss the importance of physical security in long-term and post-acute care facilities. Together, they explore the foundational elements of facility security, including risk assessments, essential policies and procedures, and how to make the most of existing resources. The episode also dives into emerging t...

In this episode, host Debbie Stadtler is joined by Darryl Fisher, founder and president of Dream Flights. Darryl shares his inspiring journey from growing up in a senior living family to creating a nonprofit dedicated to giving seniors, especially veterans, the opportunity to take flights in vintage biplanes. He reveals how these flights have touched the lives of participants and their families, bringing joy, renewal, and unforgett...

In this episode, host Debbie Stadtler sits down with Katie Colgan, executive director of Integrated Networks for the American Healthcare Association, to explore the growing shift toward value-based care in long-term care. They discuss how provider-owned networks are reshaping the industry, the power of collaboration, and the challenges and rewards of adopting value-based models. Listeners will hear real-world success stories from s...

In this episode, host Debbie Stadtler talks with Dr. Christian A. Mason, CEO of Senior Housing Managers, and Dr. Monica Tsai, co-founder of CloudMind, to explore how AI is transforming long-term care. They discuss AI’s role in patient monitoring, predictive analytics, and AI companions for memory care residents, highlighting its potential to enhance emotional well-being, improve care quality, and support caregivers. The conversatio...

In this episode, host Debbie Stadtler talks with Tina Sandri, CEO of Forest Hills of DC, about prioritizing employee well-being in long-term care. Drawing from over 20 years in healthcare, Tina shares her approach to supporting caregivers by fostering resilience and trust. She highlights initiatives at Forest Hills, including personalized wellness programs, cultural sensitivity training, and creating a supportive work culture. Tina...

In this episode, host Debbie Stadtler sits down with Michael Bassett, Vice President of Government Relations at the American Health Care Association, to discuss the evolving legislative landscape affecting the long term care industry. Michael shares insights on key issues, including the impact of Trump's administration on the long term care industry, staffing mandates, and quality improvement initiatives. He highlights the critical...

In this episode, host Debbie Stadtler talks with Clif Porter II, the newly appointed CEO of the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living. Porter shares his career journey and deep commitment to the long-term care industry, emphasizing the importance of people and community in shaping his vision. He provides insights into the current challenges facing long-term care, including the slow recovery from t...

In this episode, host Debbie Stadtler, sits down with Dr. David Gifford, Chief Medical Officer at the American Health Care Association, to discuss the Get Vaccinated campaign, which streamlines vaccine and infection control information for long-term care providers. Dr. Gifford addresses common misconceptions about vaccines, clarifying that their primary purpose is to prevent severe illness rather than infection. He also highlights ...

In this episode, host Debbie Stadtler, sits down with Kris Woolley, Founder & CEO of Avista Senior Living, about his career journey from Goldman Sachs to establishing Avista. Woolley shares key insights into the operations and growth of Avista Senior Living, as well as the challenges and opportunities in the long-term care industry. They discuss his approach to leadership, the importance of putting staff first, and the growing ...

In this episode, host Debbie Stadtler, sits down with Ashley Walters, administrator at Brookstone of Papillion in Papillion, Nebraska, a 2024 Silver Quality Award recipient. They dive into the vital role that culture and orientation play in long-term care, highlighting strategies to boost retention, empower new team members with the right tools, and leverage data-driven insights to showcase progress.

Perspectives in Long Term Car...

In this episode, host Debbie Stadtler, sits down with Ted Goins, president and CEO of Lutheran Services Carolinas to discuss recruiting in long term care and the ongoing workforce shortage. They discuss Ted's career journey in long term care, and the impact of immigration, expanding education programs and changes in pay rates on the workforce shortage. Additionally, they delve into the challenges and benefits of international recru...

In this episode, host Debbie Stadtler, sits down with Aimee Middleton, chief operating officer at the Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society to discuss the critical role of organizational culture in long-term care. They dive into the indicators of a thriving company culture, its impact on recruitment, retention, quality, and costs, the significance of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and maintaining a positive culture across ...

In this episode, host Debbie Stadtler, sits down with Zakiyo Jackson, nursing home administrator at Walter B. Crook Nursing Facility. Together they discuss diversity, equity and inclusion in long term care. They delve into the nuances of DEI at the leadership level, exploring challenges and strategies for enhancing inclusivity within organizations. From tackling obstacles with innovative approaches to fostering a more inclusive env...

In this episode, host Debbie Stadtler, sits down with Teepa Snow, dementia care specialist and occupational therapist. They discuss the crucial support required for individuals experiencing brain change and the transformative journey of dementia care, common misconceptions surrounding dementia and the need for training and education among healthcare workers, the needed communication skills, and the future landscape of dementia care...