S2 E7 - What It’s Like To Be A Supervisor

The “New Supe’ Group” is an educational, supportive, and mentorship program that was recently created for COAAA employees who have recently been promoted into supervisory roles. Transitioning into this type of role can be challenging, with learning new programs, skills, and requirements.The goal of the New Supe Group is to create shared learning experiences and connections to peers to ensure a supportive and successful work environment across the agency. Bruce Rhodeback from Care Transitions and Leslie Miller from Assessment share their experiences as new Supervisors.Leslie, who has almost two decades of service at COAAA, opens up about her evolution from case management to her current role as Assessment Supervisor. Having recently stepped into this position, Leslie outlines the multifaceted responsibilities that come with it, such as training staff, managing chart reviews, and dealing with complex consumer issues.Bruce, with COAAA for almost 8 years, brings a slightly different perspective. His journey began with the Aetna MyCare waiver program and transitioned through Care Transitions to his supervisory role. He speaks to the challenges that come with overseeing case managers, adhering to clinical demands, and often finding himself caught between the expectations of upper management and the needs of his staff.Empowering Connections in Large Agencies: "But with these new programs that we're working in, like the (COAAA) University, like the "supe group," and different trainings, we're working to create those cohorts so that people do have peers and people they can go to to support." — Katie WhiteBoth Bruce and Leslie tackle the complexities of middle management, from protecting confidential information to guiding their team through difficult times without divulging sensitive details.Bruce advises those considering a supervisory role to explore available resources, such as coursework and guidance from current supervisors, emphasizing the City of Columbus website as a valuable starting point.Challenges of Being a New Supervisor in a Growing Program: "I've learned a lot about myself in the last year, but also a lot about the, you know, the program and the program that I'm with that is constantly growing and changing and moving." — BruceLeslie complements this by encouraging honest conversations with supervisors about the benefits and drawbacks of stepping into a leadership role.The Joy of Mentorship in the Workplace: "I mean, I've always enjoyed teaching, and so that's, you know, one of my favorite parts about being a supervisor. And, you know, I love this agency, so I really on, you know, instill that in other people and, help new people really be happy here and feel like this is a place for them." — Leslie3 Key Takeaways- **The Support System**: Learn about the impact of structured support through cohorts and small groups. Discover how these systems foster peer learning and prevent isolation within a large organization.- **Middle Management Insights**: Gain insight into the balance required between satisfying upper management expectations and advocating for your team's needs, including the delicate handling of confidential information.- **Personal Growth Strategies**: Uncover strategies for personal and professional development as a supervisor. From leveraging resources like books and podcasts to reflecting on your own values, find out how continuous learning shapes effective leadership.Memorable Moments05:12 Navigating supervisory challenges with older staff members.07:23 New supervisor learns and grows in unique role.13:00 Grateful for growth, seeking feedback on reports.14:09 Staff receive regular supervision, support, and training.16:49 Consumer issues require timely, attentive handling.21:27 Supervising case managers, meeting requirements, balancing act.25:26 Clear communication and validation are key with supervisors.29:39 Columbus offers online classes for supervisor preparation.31:55 Seek guidance from supervisors and explore resources.37:34 Teaching is empowering, agency is supportive, successful.Let me know what you think of this podcast, as well as any ideas you have for an episode. Email me at [email protected]!Copyright 2026 Central Ohio Area Agency On Aging