Top Stories from 2025, and Predictions for 2026 by Chris Comeaux and Cordt Kassner | Part 1

Part 1 | Top Stories from 2025, and Predictions for 2026 by Chris Comeaux and Cordt KassnerThis episode of TCNtalks / Anatomy of Leadership brings together a year-in-review and a forward-looking conversation, as Chris Comeaux and Cordt Kassner reflect on the most important healthcare and hospice stories from 2025 and share their predictions for what lies ahead in 2026.In Part One, Chris and Cordt review key headlines from late 2025, connecting policy shifts, technology trends, workforce realities, and financial pressures to the everyday leadership decisions facing hospice and healthcare organizations. Rather than reacting to news in isolation, the discussion focuses on how these forces intersect at the front lines of care.A central theme throughout the episode is the role of technology and artificial intelligence. While AI continues to gain momentum, the conversation reinforces a critical insight: technology is an accelerator, not a solution. Leadership, governance, and values ultimately determine whether innovation strengthens care or amplifies existing challenges.The episode also examines hospice-specific issues, including Medicare Advantage pressures, care pathways in skilled nursing facilities, financial strain on nonprofit providers, and the often underutilized role of volunteers in extending care and culture.The discussion concludes by framing 2026 as a hinge year—one where deeper forces are shaping the future beneath the surface. While change may come incrementally, the choices leaders make now will influence care delivery, trust, and sustainability in the years ahead.Episode Continues in Part II - Dropping Friday, January 16th, 2026Host: Chris Comeaux, President/CEO of TELEIOSCo-Host:Cordt Kassner, PhD, Publisher of Hospice & Palliative Care Today& CEO and Founder of Hospice AnalyticsTeleios Collaborative Network   /   https://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast