Aspire for More with Erin

Send me your feedback on this episode! Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!Why the Problem Isn't the ProblemWhat if the challenge in front of you isn't actually what's holding you back?In this episode of Aspire for More with Erin, Erin pulls back the curtain on what coaching really looks like and shares three powerful lessons from recent coaching conversations with leaders across senior living and beyond.From navigating state surveys to managing difficult experiences and protecting standards, this episode explores a truth every leader eventually learns:The obstacle is rarely the situation itself. The obstacle is often our capacity to respond to it.If you've ever felt overwhelmed, questioned your ability to lead, struggled with difficult conversations, or wondered why the same leadership challenges keep showing up, this episode will give you a new lens to view those problems through.Because when awareness increases, capacity grows.And when capacity grows, leadership becomes lighter.In This Episode✔ Why anxiety changes decision-making and fear changes communication✔ The unforgettable "turkey in the warming drawer" survey story✔ How great leaders stay calm when everyone else is panicking✔ Why good management of bad experiences creates great growth✔ The connection between pain, leadership development, and confidence✔ How to navigate leadership setbacks without running from them✔ Why psychological safety is often misunderstood✔ The surprising relationship between standards and trust✔ Why avoiding hard conversations creates bigger problems✔ How coaching helps leaders see problems differently✔ What it really means to be a Capacity Architect✔ Why awareness creates capacity and capacity changes everythingConnect with ErinIf this episode resonated with you and you're ready to build your capacity, strengthen your leadership confidence, or work through a challenge with a trusted coach, connect with Erin Thompson.Follow Erin on LinkedIn Visit AspireForMoreWithErin.com Subscribe, rate, and share the podcast with another leader who needs this message.Remember:Awareness creates capacity. Capacity creates confidence. Confidence changes leadership. Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode! Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!What if the reason people resist change… is how we’re communicating with them?In this episode of Aspire for More with Erin, Erin sits down with Tammy Calais, founder of Aging and Change Coach, to break down one of the most powerful communication tools leaders can use:Motivational interviewing.This conversation challenges the way most leaders approach communication, especially in high-pressure environments like senior living.Instead of telling people what to do, this episode explores how to: ask better questions  create safe spaces  and help people arrive at their own solutions Because when people own the solution, they are far more likely to follow through.Tami Calais on LinkedIn Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!What if the biggest challenges in senior living aren’t operational… but invisible?In this powerful episode, Erin sits down with Shubam Gautam—a former monk, physician, and senior living operator—to unpack what leadership actually requires inside a community.From clinical care to culture, from burnout to belonging—this conversation goes beyond strategy and into the human side of leadership that drives real results.If you’ve ever felt the weight of: Leading a stretched team  Supporting overwhelmed families  Making high-stakes decisions in real time This episode will change how you think about leadership.What You’ll Learn: Why root cause thinking matters more than quick fixes  The real reason occupancy and culture struggle How to lead without control—and why it works  The connection between energy, presence, and performance Why your team is your first customer How small daily actions shape long-term results You can follow Shubam Gautam here: LinkedIn profile Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!What if trust is the only metric that actually matters?In this episode of Aspire for More with Erin, Erin sits down with Adrienne Mansfield, co-founder of Adage Marketing Group, to unpack one of the most overlooked truths in senior living:Trust isn’t just important… it’s the foundation of everything.From marketing and sales to operations and retention, trust is the through line that determines whether families move forward—or walk away.This conversation dives into: where trust is built  where it breaks  and how leaders can intentionally design experiences that create it If you’ve ever wondered why momentum stalls, why families hesitate, or why referrals aren’t happening, this episode will challenge how you think about leadership, communication, and growth.In This Episode: Why families are managing risk, not just making decisions  Where trust actually breaks down inside communities  The concept of “seams” and why they matter  How follow-up strategy impacts occupancy  The “Heaven or Hell” rule for sales and leadership  Why experience matters more than messaging  How systems can reinforce trust instead of replace it  The shift from SEO to AEO (Ask Engine Optimization) Key Takeaway:Trust is not a soft skill. It is your growth strategy. Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!What if the most important metric in senior living isn’t occupancy… but trust?In this episode of Aspire for More with Erin, Erin sits down with industry leader Meredith Oppenheim to explore a powerful shift happening across senior living.The conversation moves beyond day-to-day operations and into a bigger question:What actually drives long-term success in our communities?Meredith introduces the VITALS Framework—a six-part model designed to help leaders rethink how they approach growth, care, and performance in a rapidly changing industry.Together, Erin and Meredith connect macro-level strategy with real-life leadership inside the community, showing how trust, systems, and people all work together to create sustainable results.If you’re a leader who wants to move beyond just “getting by” and start building something truly meaningful, this episode will challenge how you think about leadership, culture, and success.In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why trust is the foundation of every KPI in senior living  The shift from occupancy to outcome-based thinking  How the VITALS Framework can guide leadership decisions  Why staff experience directly impacts resident experience  The connection between culture, consistency, and performance  How to align mission and margin in a changing industry Key Takeaway:If you want better results, you don’t start with numbers. You start with trust.You can follow Meredith Oppenheim on LinkedIn here Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!People don’t trust what you say. They trust what they experience.In senior living, every interaction with residents, families, and team members is shaping your reputation in real time.Stop Chasing Occupancy. Start Building It.What if the reason your community isn’t full… has nothing to do with marketing?In this episode, we’re shifting the conversation away from leads, pricing, and competition—and toward the one thing that actually drives sustainable occupancy:👉 the experience inside your communityBecause here’s the truth:You cannot market your way out of a culture problem.If what people experience inside your building doesn’t match what you’re promising outside, occupancy will always feel like an uphill battle.💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why occupancy is not just a sales problem—it’s a leadership and culture problem  The connection between trust, experience, and referrals How your team dynamics directly impact move-ins and retention Why your residents are your most powerful marketing strategy The mindset shift from chasing results → building environments where results follow  What it actually means to operate like 100% is inevitableA Few Questions to Reflect On What are people actually experiencing when they walk into your community?  Would your team describe your culture the same way you would?  Are your residents creating referrals—or resistance?  Are you trying to fix occupancy… or build something that naturally drives it? Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode! Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!You’re working hard.You’re showing up. You’re doing everything “right.”…so why does it feel like nothing is changing?In this episode, Erin breaks down the real reason momentum is missing in your leadership and your community—and it’s probably not what you think.Momentum isn’t something you wait for. It’s something you create.And if you don’t understand how to create it, you will burn out trying.This episode will help you shift your mindset, refocus your energy, and start seeing real movement again—in your team, your culture, and your results. Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode! Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!Many leaders believe ownership means having the answers, fixing problems, and staying involved in everything.But that version of ownership often creates the exact opposite of what organizations want: dependency, burnout, and bottlenecks.In this episode, Erin explores the difference between control-based ownership and scale-based leadership.She explains why the best leaders are not the best problem solvers — they are the best capacity builders.You’ll learn:• Why solving every problem can actually limit growth • The difference between fixing issues and building systems • How leaders accidentally become the bottleneck • The shift from control-based ownership to scalable leadership • How to build capacity inside your team so problems stop repeatingIf you’ve ever felt like everything in your community runs through you, this episode will help you rethink what real leadership ownership looks like. Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!The first 90 days in a leadership role can feel overwhelming.You walk into a new community or organization and suddenly you're expected to fix occupancy, improve morale, reduce turnover, build trust with your team, and create results quickly.Real Talk: The first 90 days of leadership are not about proving how smart you are. They are about building trust.In this episode of Aspire for More with Erin with Guests Kurt Mosely and Neill  Marshall, we explore what really determines whether a new leader succeeds or struggles in those critical early months. We break down the leadership behaviors that create credibility, the mistakes many new leaders make when they try to move too fast, and why listening, observing, and learning the culture are some of the most powerful leadership moves you can make.This episode is especially valuable for new Executive Directors, department leaders stepping into bigger roles, and operators responsible for developing the next generation of leadership in senior living communities.When leaders understand how to navigate their first 90 days well, they create the foundation for stronger teams, healthier cultures, and long-term success.In This Episode You’ll Learn• Why the first 90 days are about building trust, not proving intelligence • The biggest mistakes new leaders make when stepping into a new role • How early leadership actions send powerful signals to your team • Why accountability builds credibility faster than perfection • The importance of observing culture before trying to change it • How listening and learning accelerate leadership successKey Leadership InsightLeadership credibility is not built through speeches or big announcements. It is built through consistent actions that show people you are accountable, trustworthy, and committed to the team.When leaders take the time to understand their people, their systems, and their culture, they create the foundation that allows real change to happen.Kurt Mosely on LinkedInNeill Marshall on LinkedInHealthSearch Partners Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!Gossip inside senior living communities is not random. It has roots.In this episode of Aspire for More with Erin, Erin breaks down the real drivers behind drama and negative energy — and why trying to “shut it down” rarely works.Instead of policing behavior, leaders must examine the systems that fuel it.Erin explores:Why gossip is a storytelling problemHow lack of clarity fuels confusion and assumptionsThe critical role of emotional safetyHow power imbalance creates alliance-buildingThe impact of unprocessed trauma in caregiving environmentsWhy leaders must model the culture they want to seeYou’ll learn how to stop absorbing negative energy and start observing its roots so you can change the environment instead of chasing behavior.Because gossip isn’t always a people problem. It’s often a systems problem.And systems can be rebuilt.Want more information on the 100% Leader click here Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!What if the biggest lie inside senior living is that 100% occupancy is enough?In this episode, Erin breaks down why 100% leadership is not a metric — it’s a mindset.She walks through the full GROW → LEAD → RISE framework behind the 100% Leader program and explains:• Why competence does not equal capacity • Why internal growth determines external influence • How communication builds (or erodes) trust • Why understanding your financial story is essential for credibility • How culture sells before marketing ever does • Why curiosity is the secret weapon of great leaders • And how group coaching accelerates growth faster than solo learningIf you feel overwhelmed, plateaued, or capable of more — this episode is for you.Success is not accidental. It is intentional.The next 100% Leader cohort is open now. If you are ready to grow, lead, and rise intentionally — apply here today. Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!Senior living leaders are tired.Not because they lack skill.Not because they don’t care.But because they are carrying too much.In this episode of Aspire for More with Erin along with Michele Magner explores a powerful leadership shift: what if the “drama” in your community isn’t a people problem… but a capacity problem?When leaders operate beyond their emotional capacity, everything feels heavier — escalations increase, communication tightens, and burnout accelerates. But when leaders become emotionally resourced, everything shifts.This conversation, with Michele Magner from Inspired Caring, unpacks how to reduce friction, stop absorbing unnecessary emotional load, and lead with steadiness instead of reactivity.If you’re a leader who feels like you’re constantly putting out fires, this episode will help you understand why, and how to lead differently.Capacity isn’t soft. It’s strategic.Find out more about Michele and Inspired CARING here: Inspired CARINGMichele Magner LinkedIn page Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode! Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode! Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!If leadership feels heavier than it used to—if you can’t slow down, can’t say no, and feel like everything depends on you—this episode is for you.In this solo episode, Erin Thompson explores why capable leaders burn out not because they lack skill or commitment, but because responsibility has outgrown preparation. She introduces the concept of The Wing-It Window—the messy middle where leaders are expected to perform while they’re still learning—and explains why confidence isn’t the solution.Capacity is.You’ll learn what leadership capacity actually is, why comparison quietly drains it, and how unexamined expectations keep leaders stuck in over-functioning and reactivity. Erin walks listeners through a powerful 4-step capacity awareness framework that helps leaders regain clarity, control, and confidence—without burning out or white-knuckling their role.This episode is especially relevant for leaders in senior living, healthcare, operations, sales, and clinical roles who are carrying constant pressure from teams, families, ownership, or corporate expectations.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy leadership breakdowns don’t come from lack of competence—but lack of capacityThe difference between capacity, confidence, and competenceHow the Wing-It Window shows up in leadership (and why it’s normal)Why alignment restores what comparison has taken awayThe 4 questions that reveal what’s actually running your leadership under pressureHow survival behaviors and competing commitments quietly limit growthWhy capacity grows through awareness and acceptance, not hustleHow to regain clarity and control without changing everything at once Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!Transitions of care are some of the most emotionally charged moments in senior living — and they are where trust is either built or broken.In this episode, Erin is joined by regional long-term care business development leader Kaci to explore why transitions of care are not just operational or clinical challenges, but true leadership moments.Together, they unpack why senior living breaks down most often during transitions, how mismanaged emotions lead to fractured relationships, and why the way a family feels when they leave your community becomes your reputation.Through real-world examples and a rapid-fire “Agree, Disagree, or It’s Complicated” segment, this episode bridges sales, service, and leadership — offering clarity for Executive Directors, regional leaders, sales professionals, nurses, social workers, and anyone navigating complex care conversations.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:Why transitions are emotional long before they are logisticalThe difference between change and transition — and why it mattersHow mismanaged emotions derail trust during care transitionsWhy communication failures are often capacity failuresHow leaders unintentionally turn referrals into rupturesWhen sales should (and shouldn’t) be involved in clinical conversationsWhy relationships don’t end when residents leave — they begin Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!What if failure isn’t the problem — but how leaders respond to failure is?In this episode of Aspire for More with Erin, Erin sits down with Jacob Brown, former professional football player turned keynote speaker and author, to unpack what it really means to fail forward — and why fear-based leadership is quietly burning out capable leaders across industries.This conversation goes far beyond motivation. It’s about identity, recovery, and leadership capacity.Jacob shares his personal journey through professional sports, addiction, homelessness, and rebuilding his life — and how those experiences shaped his Fail Forward philosophy and his powerful concept of Avocado Leadership: leading from your core, not from fear.Together, Erin and Jacob explore why:Protection keeps leaders stuckFailure is information, not a verdictRecovery speed matters more than perfectionLeadership requires softness, strength, and grounded boundariesIf you’re a leader who cares deeply, feels the weight of responsibility, and knows you’re capable of more — this episode will meet you right where you are.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:Why failing forward isn’t failing more — it’s recovering fasterHow fear-based leadership turns leaders into bottlenecksThe hidden cost of over-functioning and self-protectionWhy shame only has power in silenceHow to separate your worth from outcomesWhat Avocado Leadership really means:Soft enough to connectStrong enough to hold the lineGrounded enough to stay true to your coreHow speaking goals out loud creates momentum and opportunityWhy growth doesn’t come from pressure — it comes from capacityMemorable Moments & Quotes:“Failure is information, not a verdict.”“Protection is what keeps leaders stuck.”“Shame only has power in silence.”“Failing forward isn’t failing more. It’s recovering faster.”“Growth doesn’t come from pressure. It comes from capacity.”Why This Conversation Matters:Too many leaders are exhausted — not because they don’t care, but because they care too much in fear-based systems.This episode isn’t about hype or hustle. It’s about learning how to:Trust yourself againLead without carrying everything aloneBuild leadership capacity that actually sustains resultsThis is the work Erin does every day with leaders through coaching, mentoring, and speaking — helping them stop protecting themselves long enough to grow.Follow and learn about Jacob Brown hereFollow Erin for more conversations on leadership, growth, and building capacity without burnout. Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!If you’ve ever felt the immediate urge to jump in, fix the problem, and make everything better — this episode is for you.In senior living leadership, the instinct to rescue is common. When someone comes to you overwhelmed or stressed, your body reacts before your brain does. Your chest tightens. Your heart races. You feel the pressure to act fast.That reaction isn’t leadership instinct — it’s anxiety.In this follow-up episode to The Questions That Build Leaders, Erin explores the skill underneath asking better questions: learning how to breathe through the anxiety of fixing, rescuing, and over-functioning.This is a mentoring-style episode that teaches leaders how to pause, regulate their nervous system, and stay present long enough to help others think, grow, and solve problems for themselves — without guilt, shame, or withdrawal of support.As Erin shares throughout the episode: Every time you help someone solve their own problem, your influence grows.🎧 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:Why the urge to fix feels urgent — and why it’s often anxiety, not leadershipHow rescuing creates short-term relief but long-term dependenceThe simple one-breath pause that interrupts over-functioningHow to respond instead of react when problems come to youWhy fixing soothes the leader but doesn’t build confidence in othersHow asking questions actually multiplies support instead of withholding itThe connection between calm leadership, influence, and capacityHow to stop being the bottleneck and start building leadersWhy leadership requires awareness more than urgency🌱 Key TakeawayYou don’t have to fix everything to be a great leader.Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is stay present in the discomfort long enough to let someone find their own answer. That pause — even one breath — is where confidence, ownership, and leadership capacity begin to grow.📣 Resources & Next StepsIf this episode resonates with you, you may also enjoy: 🎧 The Questions That Build Leaders (previous episode)💡 Erin also teaches these skills inside the 100% Leader Program, where leaders learn how to build capacity, confidence, and influence without burning out. Details and links are available in the show notes.🤝 Let’s Keep the Conversation GoingIf this episode helped you:Share it with a leader who carries too muchListen to the previous episode as a companionSend Erin a message with your biggest takeawayAs always, aspire for more for you , knowing you’re already enough. Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode! Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Erin unpacks the hidden relationship between resentment, worthiness, emotional capacity, and gratitude. You’ll learn why hustling for validation keeps leaders stuck, why gratitude is NOT soft — it’s strategic — and how "stacking the evidence" can rewire your identity, rebuild your confidence, and protect you from burnout.If you've ever struggled to feel proud of what you’ve accomplished… or if you've been waiting for someone else to notice your work… this episode will shift something inside you.What You’ll Learn:Why gratitude is the antidote to resentmentHow leaders numb themselves without realizing itWhy “hustling for worthiness” keeps you stuckThe neuroscience behind gratitude and identityThe “Stack the Evidence” tool that builds confidenceHow to grow emotional capacity in high-pressure rolesWhy gratitude makes you a leader people want to followKey Concepts & Takeaways:The opposite of gratitude is resentment — and resentment is unprocessed disappointmentYou can’t feel joy when you’re still clinging to angerGratitude is not soft; it rewires your brain for clarity and confidenceYour brain believes what you rehearseYou can stack evidence of failure… or evidence of growthGratitude creates expansion, capacity, and alignmentLeadership influence grows when leaders notice the right thingsReflection Questions:What resentment am I still carrying that is blocking gratitude?What evidence have I ignored about my success or growth?What am I grateful for today that I used to pray for?Links & Next Steps:Join the January 100% Leader CohortBook a December Clarity CallSubscribe to Erin’s Saturday Morning Email Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!Over 80% of state reportables in Alabama communities are due to falls—and they’re burning out your teams. In this powerful episode, Erin sits down with Joseph Ross of iWatch Live to uncover how their 24/7 live nurse monitoring system is revolutionizing resident safety without costing communities a dime.You’ll learn:Why fall-related incidents are the #1 claim in senior living—and how to prevent themWhat makes leaders resist technology—and how to overcome itHow this tech has extended resident length of stay by 3+ monthsWhat makes caregivers feel empowered and safer at workWhy innovation isn’t about “more”—it’s about working smarterWhether you're burned out or building a new community from scratch, this is the kind of tool and episode that might just change everything. Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!What if burnout isn’t failure—but feedback?In this deeply moving and practical conversation, Dr. Kimber Del Valle, psychologist, author, and creator of The Fierce + Gentle Method, joins Erin to explore how our nervous system shapes every aspect of leadership, energy, and resilience.Together, they unpack how chronic urgency, unhealed stress, and emotional triggers show up in our leadership—and how awareness, presence, and regulation can restore capacity and peace.From real-world examples in senior living and healthcare to Dr. Kimber’s powerful personal story of loss and renewal, this episode will remind you that your body isn’t your enemy; it’s your greatest guide back to balance.Key Takeaways🔹 Burnout isn’t exhaustion—it’s a loss of capacity. Learn to recognize when your “gas pedal” and “brake” are out of sync.🔹 Regulation is a leadership skill. Awareness of your nervous system directly affects your decision-making, empathy, and boundaries.🔹 Emotional urgency is real. Especially in healthcare, leaders must learn to pause before reacting to triggers.🔹 You matter. I matter. We matter. Dr. Kimber’s framework for empathy, boundaries, and collective healing.🔹 The power of awe. How noticing beauty, nature, and small moments resets your nervous system and rebuilds capacity.Follow Dr. Kimber Del Valle hereWebsite: Click here Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!Transitions are where leadership is most visible, and most vulnerable.In this episode, Erin shares her most personal stories and leadership strategies for guiding families, residents, and teams through the emotional, unpredictable, and critical moments of change.You’ll learn:The TRUE framework for leading transitions with compassionWhy the last impression matters more than the firstHow unmet expectations—not clinical failures—drive most litigationWhat to say when you don’t have all the answersHow to equip your team to respond with empathy, not avoidanceWhether it’s a move-out, a hospitalization, or a shift in care levels, this episode gives you the tools to lead through it with grace—and turn emotional moments into lasting loyalty. Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!In this deeply personal episode of Aspire for More with Erin, Erin shares a raw reflection on her upcoming keynote and the lessons that built it. She unpacks how trauma, avoidance, and over-functioning quietly shape leadership—and how facing our discomfort is the real path to growth.You’ll hear:Why 34% of the senior living workforce carries trauma that impacts communication and performance.How avoidance and over-functioning masquerade as productivity.Why “100%” is not a metric—it’s a mindset.The choice every leader faces: react or respond.The hard truth that what we avoid will eventually control us.This episode is a reminder that growth isn’t about perfection or hustle. It’s about awareness, reflection, and choosing to believe you are enough. Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!Speak Like a Visionary Leader: 5 Communication Shifts That Change EverythingDescription: Communication isn’t just how you talk—it’s how you lead, build trust, and influence every room you walk into. In this solo episode, Erin breaks down 5 powerful communication shifts that will help you speak like a visionary, not just a manager. Whether you're leading a morning stand-up or navigating a tough HR conversation, these tools will elevate your clarity, confidence, and leadership impact.You’ll learn how to:Speak to lead, not manageRegulate emotions to keep your message clearUse fewer words with more weightAsk better questions to unlock team growthStop oversharing and start inspiringThis is your roadmap to leading with your voice, and multiplying your influence. Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!Most leaders think they have a content problem. In reality, they have a communication problem.In this episode of Aspire for More with Erin, I sit down with Eva Daniel — founder of The Speak Shop, former speechwriter for Dave Ramsey, and one of the Top 20 Communication Experts in the U.S. — to unpack the power of words, storytelling, and clarity in leadership.Eva believes communication isn’t a “soft skill.” It’s the leadership skill that determines whether your team trusts you, your message lands, and your influence grows.Together, we explore practical tools and habits that help leaders move from nervous or unclear to confident and compelling. Whether you’re leading a team meeting or standing on a stage, this episode will help you communicate in a way that people remember — and act on.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why clarity is confidence and how leaders can eliminate confusion in their messagingThe 50-25-25 Rule that will change how you prepare for presentationsWhy every meeting is a stage — and how to show up with presence and impactThe surprising power of pauses, grounding, and even potato chips for nervous speakersHow to distill your message into a North Star sentence people will never forgetWhy leaders don’t have to be naturally charismatic — communication is a skill anyone can learnResources & Links:Connect with Eva Daniel and The Speak Shop → [click here]Join the conversation with me on LinkedIn → [click here]Subscribe to Aspire for More with Erin wherever you listen to podcasts Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!What do you do when the door doesn’t open—despite your credentials, your connections, and your calling?You build your own.In this powerful episode, Erin sits down with Norman Harris Jr., healthcare leader, podcast host, and founder of CMC Media & Advocacy. Together, they explore what it means to lead without permission, trust your purpose, and stay the course—even when the industry overlooks you.Norman shares his journey from being a trusted voice in long-term care leadership to launching a nonprofit media platform that centers underrepresented stories in healthcare. This episode is a masterclass in ownership, identity, and the raw, uncomfortable—but necessary—process of becoming.Whether you're a senior living leader, emerging entrepreneur, or someone who’s been waiting to be chosen, this conversation will remind you:“If God gave it to you, it will not miss you.” What You’ll Learn:Why influence starts before the title arrivesThe truth about trust, leadership, and turnover in senior careHow to reframe rejection and invisibility as invitations to leadThe power of story-based advocacy—and why your voice mattersWhy Norman believes no cap rate is high enough to cover a lack of trustHow he started a podcast and media brand, without waiting for permission Quotable Moments:“You have to own the seat before you ever get it.”“I had the credentials, the connections, the experience—but no one was calling. So I created my own opportunity.”“There is no cap rate high enough to compensate for a lack of trust.”“Podcasting wasn’t my plan. But purpose has a way of finding you if you’re listening.” Links & Resources:Follow Norman Harris Jr. on LinkedIn: hereLearn more about CMC Media & Advocacy: hereSubscribe to Aspire for More with Erin on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite app100% Leader Information: HereCall to Action:If you’ve ever felt like you were made for more—but the world wasn’t ready to see it—this is your sign to go anyway.Listen now. Share with a leader you believe in.And remember: becoming is a process, not a performance. Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode! Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!Most people talk about culture like it’s a project. But as Kate Bertram, former CEO and author of Creating Stickiness, reminds us, culture isn’t the initiative. It’s the result.In this episode of Aspire For More with Erin, Kate and I dig deep into the truths leaders often overlook:Why culture shows up most clearly on a Tuesday afternoon in the middle of stressThe role of shadow culture—and how unspoken norms can undermine your best intentionsWhy perks, pay bumps, and pizza parties don’t fix toxic leadershipHow to build trust as the new currency of leadershipThe difference between being “nice” and being “kind” when having tough conversationsWhy development planning creates “stickiness” and helps retain top talentThis conversation is a roadmap for senior living and healthcare leaders who want to create workplaces where people stay, thrive, and belong.💬 What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow to see culture as the result of leadership behaviors, not an HR programWhy trust is fragile—and how to build it consistently with your teamWhat courageous leadership looks like in real time (and why clarity is kindness)How to address “shadow culture” before it damages trust and moralePractical ways to use development planning as a retention strategyConnect with Kate BertramLinkedIn: Kate BertramBook: Creating StickinessListen Now:If you’re a senior living leader, healthcare professional, or simply someone who cares about building trust-centered workplaces, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!Episode Summary: Hiring in senior living is more than filling a position—it’s about protecting culture, improving retention, and attracting people who want to stay. In this episode, I sit down with Dana Weaver, CEO of Weaver Solutions, to unpack the CARE Framework—a practical, people-centered approach to interviewing that reduces turnover and raises the bar for leadership.We explore why interviews are often overlooked, how your energy shapes the outcome, and the simple shifts leaders can make to walk into the interview room with confidence, clarity, and purpose.If you’ve ever wondered how to attract A-players, how to ask better questions, or how to build a team that lasts, this episode is a must-listen.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why turnover starts (or stops) in the interview roomThe 4 steps of the CARE Framework: Clarity, Ask Better Questions, Reflect, Engage with IntentionHow your energy and story as a leader shape who you attractThe cost of turnover—and why improving your interview skills could save thousandsPractical tools to bring more confidence, alignment, and purpose into your next interviewLinks & Resources:Learn more about Dana Weaver and the CARE Framework: weaversolutionsllc.com/careRegister for Dana’s upcoming training webinar on September 10th Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!What if failure isn’t something to fear—but something to use?In this episode of Aspire For More with Erin, we unpack one of the hardest truths of leadership: you will fail. But failure doesn’t have to define you. In fact, it can refine you.Erin introduces the FAIL → GAIN Framework and shares personal stories, practical leadership lessons, and the mindset shifts that can transform mistakes into momentum.You’ll learn:Why assumptions are the fastest way to stall leadership growthHow to use failure as feedback instead of judgmentThe difference between being more and doing moreHow to build resilience that keeps you moving forwardIf you’re an Executive Director, senior living leader, or anyone feeling the weight of mistakes and setbacks—this episode will help you see failure not as the end, but as the beginning of growth. Key Quote: “FAIL becomes the framework that leads to GAIN. When leaders learn to fail forward, they build the freedom to succeed.”Here is a F.A.I.L. to G.A.I.N. Framework for you: https://aspireformore.myflodesk.com/failtogain Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!What if your greatest setback was the seed of your greatest comeback? In this episode, Erin gets real about what failure actually means—and why it's often the doorway to the growth we crave most. From leading a senior living community to 100% occupancy just months after COVID, to being fired to , Erin shares her personal story of transformation, breaking down how mistakes, when reflected on intentionally, become our most powerful leadership assets.Erin introduces the concept of Return on Failure (R.O.F.) and explores how leaders can flip failure from shame into strategy. If you’ve ever felt like you're behind, burnt out, or bouncing back from a loss, this episode is the roadmap to rise.🔑 Key Topics Covered:Why failure and success aren’t opposites—they’re on the same pathThe mindset shift that turns mistakes into momentumErin’s personal story of leadership loss—and bounce-back successHow to own your leadership narrative (especially when it’s messy)Using failure to build confidence, emotional intelligence, and trustWhy perfectionism is the enemy of growth in leadershipWe are enrolling new leaders to our Executive Director Launch Lab now. Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!Perception can make or break senior living. Filmmaker and storyteller Peter Murphy Lewis is here to flip the script — and put caregivers at the heart of the story.In this episode, we unpack the making of People Worth Caring About, the groundbreaking documentary shining a light on the passion, grit, and humanity of long-term care teams. You’ll hear why authentic, imperfect storytelling connects deeper than polished marketing, and how leaders can use it to recruit, retain, and inspire.Whether you’re a senior living leader, marketer, or simply someone who believes in the power of human connection, this episode will leave you inspired — and ready to tell your community’s story.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why caregivers should be the face of your brandHow “Human, not Hollywood” storytelling transforms perception and trustThe key questions to ask staff to capture meaningful storiesWhy documentaries — and long-form storytelling — are the most powerful opinion changersWhy this matters: How authentic storytelling can boost occupancy, staff pride, and your community’s reputationLinks & Resources:Watch People Worth Caring About on YouTube and major smart TV platformsFollow Peter Murphy Lewis on LinkedIn Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!Behind the polished lobby and the corporate metrics is a world of constant pressure, emotional resilience, and the unspoken challenges that senior living leaders face every single day.In this powerful conversation, Erin sits down with Kent Mulkey, Founder of Elevation Coaching and Membership Sales Executive for One-on-One Sales Academy, whose viral LinkedIn posts have resonated with tens of thousands in the senior living industry. Together, they pull back the curtain on the truths no one tells you about leadership in senior living—truths that could save a career from burnout.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The difference between passion and purpose—and why getting this wrong can drain even the best leaders.The unspoken tension between resident needs and corporate pressures, and how to navigate it without losing yourself.Why personal and professional growth are the same thing—and why separating them is costing leaders their well-being.The mindset shift that can help EDs let go of control, build trust, and empower their teams.How vulnerability and sharing your story can open doors, build influence, and restore joy in leadership.Why You Need to Hear This:Whether you’re an Executive Director, a corporate leader, or an aspiring senior living professional, this conversation will challenge how you think about leadership, success, and self-preservation in a demanding industry. Kent’s wisdom, combined with Erin’s hard-won insights, offers a roadmap to not just surviving—but thriving—in senior living leadership.Connect with Kent:LinkedIn: Kent MulkeyOne-on-One Sales Academy: oneonone.com/academyElevation CoachingResources & Links:Connect with Erin: LinkedIn Explore the ED Launch Lab: Schedule a callLeadership coaching with Aspire for More: Schedule a callHere is a link to an article Kent referenced in this episode he wrote: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/should-i-even-talking-kent-mulkey/?trackingId=azfxmFVcSmK%2BM4T2I9ktTw%3D%3D Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!In this episode of Aspire for More with Erin, we’re diving deep into the future of dementia education and staff training with two powerhouse guests:  Dr. Jennifer Stelter, Founder & CEO of the Dementia Connection Institute  Natalie Kravitz, Director of Engagement Operations at Activity Connection and Dementia Connection Institute AmbassadorTogether, they explore what’s broken in today’s dementia education—and how it can be transformed.You’ll learn:Why most dementia training fails to create real changeHow the Dementia Connection Model combines evidence-based tools with caregiver empowermentThe measurable ROI of strategic, proactive training (like $9K saved in 3 months!)How communities can shift from reactive to proactive care by investing in mindset, training, and storytellingWhat “social prescribing” means—and why it might be better than medicationsWhether you're a senior living leader, caregiver, or changemaker—this episode offers real tools, real data, and real transformation. Plus, hear how to get certified as a Dementia Connection Specialist and receive a special 10% discount code: AL10 for the September virtual training. Learn more: dementiaconnectioninstitute.org Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!Episode Summary:What if the key to better dementia care isn’t more complexity—but more simplicity?In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Erin sits down with Allyson Schrier, founder of Zinnia TV, to discuss how personal experience, curiosity, and innovation led to a tool that's transforming dementia education. From caregiving for her husband with frontotemporal dementia to developing a video platform that helps caregivers model daily activities and reduce agitation—Allyson brings both heart and strategy.This episode explores:How trauma and curiosity can birth impactful solutionsWhy traditional staff training misses the mark—and how to fix itHow modeling and pre-framing transform caregiving outcomesCultural awareness and the need to individualize trainingZinnia TV’s power to soothe, connect, and empowerWhether you’re a senior living leader, family caregiver, or simply someone who believes in person-centered care—this episode will shift how you think about training, communication, and compassion.🎥 Learn more about Zinnia TV: zinniatv.com Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!In this milestone episode, Erin reflects on what it really means to show up consistently — as a podcaster, a leader, and a community builder. After 100 episodes, she’s learned that the pursuit of success is rarely about one big moment, it’s about the quiet, steady rhythm of doing the right things over and over again. In this episode, you’ll learn:Why 100% occupancy is a byproduct, not the goalWhat consistency in podcasting taught Erin about consistency in leadershipHow to lead your community like you’re playing the long game,  with intentional action, not reactive hustleThe mindset shift that turns discouragement into momentumHow to define success by what you build in yourself, not just your census Key Quote“I thought 100% occupancy was the win, but it was really about becoming the kind of leader who creates it, not chases it.”Whether you’re at the beginning of your leadership journey or stuck in the messy middle, this episode is a powerful reminder that consistency, aligned with purpose, is the compound interest of leadership.Show up. Build trust. Stay the course. Let’s go. Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode! Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!In this episode of Aspire for More with Erin, we dive deep into one of the most urgent challenges facing the senior living industry: the retention crisis among Executive Directors and administrators. Erin is joined by Blair Quasnitschka, a seasoned senior living leader and board member of the American College of Health Care Administrators (ACHCA), for a real and refreshing conversation about how we can stop burning out our brightest leaders before they have a chance to shine.Together, they unpack:✅ Why “sink or swim” doesn’t work in today’s complex leadership roles ✅ What mentorship actually looks like when done right ✅ How to create growth environments with grace for new leaders ✅ The power of emotional intelligence in retaining talent ✅ How operators and companies can rethink onboarding, support, and developmentIf you’ve ever asked: 🔹 “Why do we keep losing great leaders?” 🔹 “How do I support a struggling ED without taking over?” 🔹 “Where do mentorship and margin intersect?”Then this episode is for you.Whether you’re a senior living operator, mentor, aspiring leader, or passionate advocate for this field — this conversation will challenge your assumptions and inspire change. Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!In this solo episode, Erin breaks down the real reason most senior living leaders quit too soon, and how to tell if you’re facing a Dip, a Cliff, or a Cul-de-Sac (inspired by Seth Godin’s The Dip).She shares the 4 Emotional Phases every Executive Director goes through, the mindset traps that keep you stuck, and 3 powerful questions to ask before you hand in your resignation.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, underappreciated, or ready to run, this conversation will help you decide when to stay, when to grow, and when to walk away wisely. Key Takeaways:The 4 Emotional Phases of senior living leadership (and where you are now)How the messy middle can make or break your careerThe difference between quitting for relief and quitting for strategy3 clarity questions to ask before you quitWhy finishing is rarer, and more rewarding, than starting Connect with Erin: Ready to get the support you need to grow through the dip? Connect with Erin at Aspire For More with Erin or visit The Mentoring Company. Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!R.I.S.E. a Framework for Leadership in the Modern EraIn this podcast episode designed for leaders seeking mentoring and motivation, the focus is on transitioning from control-based leadership to influence-based leadership. Erin introduces the RISE framework, which stands for Relationships, Inspiration, Strategy, and Empowerment. The episode covers how control-based leadership, which relies on authority and fear, fails in modern environments. It discusses management-based leadership as an intermediary step, but emphasizes that influence-based leadership is the most effective way to empower teams and create a growth environment. Key concepts include the emotional bank account, the power of encouragement, and the importance of self-investment. The final part of the episode outlines the RISE framework in detail, providing practical strategies for leaders to build strong relationships, inspire their teams, implement strategic thinking, and empower others to take ownership. The episode concludes with a call to action for leaders to evaluate which pillar of the RISE framework they need to focus on to improve their leadership impact.00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast00:34 From Control-Based to Influence-Based Leadership03:37 The Emotional Bank Account Concept10:24 The RISE Framework: An Overview11:02 Building Relationships: The First Pillar19:59 Inspiration: The Second Pillar25:53 Strategy: The Third Pillar28:57 Empowerment: The Fourth Pillar35:35 Conclusion and Call to ActionJoin my email list here: https://aspireformore.myflodesk.com/aspireformoreforyou Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!In this episode of the Aspire for More with Erin podcast, Erin and guest Malinda Schulte, professor and founder of Ms. Healthcare Consulting, discuss strategies to help leaders in senior living avoid burnout and empower their teams. They explore the importance of not assuming others share the same knowledge, categorizing tasks to avoid feeling overwhelmed, and fostering a psychologically safe environment. Malinda shares her personal journey and practical tips, including creating an effective tier system for task management and emphasizing basic training and clarity within leadership roles. The conversation aims to equip leaders with the mindset and tools to create a sustainable and effective work environment, ultimately enhancing both personal and team performance.00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:38 Guest Introduction: Melinda Schultice01:40 Realizing Assumptions in Leadership04:23 Creating a Culture of Empowerment05:56 The Importance of Psychological Safety08:13 Personal Leadership Journeys23:19 Prioritizing Tasks: Tiers of Work33:00 Final Thoughts and Advice for Leaders35:38 Conclusion and Contact InformationHere is the link to the New ED's Playbook Course: https://growyoursalesskills.thinkific.com/courses/the-new-eds-playbook-creating-an-impactful-community-cultureHere is Malinda Shultice's LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malinda-shultice-dhs-mpa-lnha-43225052/ Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode! Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode! Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode!Championing PACE: Comprehensive Care for the Elderly with Donna WilhelmIn this episode, Erin reconnects with Donna Wilhelm, Vice President for Advocacy and Government Relations for Trinity Health Continuing Care, to discuss the impactful PACE (Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) program. Donna shares insights about her career shift into senior living services, her role in the PACE initiative, and the comprehensive support it offers for seniors and their caregivers, from medical care to everyday necessities like air conditioners and laundry. The conversation also covers the political challenges PACE faces, including the necessity to advocate for federal and state support to ensure its sustainability and expansion. Both Erin and Donna emphasize the critical need for programs like PACE to become mandatory, amid the growing demand for senior care solutions.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:38 Donna Wilhelm's Role and Background01:55 Overview of the PACE Program02:28 Eligibility and Services of PACE03:18 Financial Aspects and Risk Management05:17 Real-Life Examples and Impact06:46 Interdisciplinary Team and Care Approach08:22 Expansion and Advocacy for PACE15:53 Caregiver Support and Holistic Care18:52 Dementia Care in PACE20:37 Managing Expenses and Medicare Coverage21:34 Political Implications and Advocacy23:23 Medicaid Funding Challenges25:27 Potential Cuts and Their Impact27:22 The Importance of PACE35:16 Scalability and Future of PACE36:59 Conclusion and Call to Action Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.

Send me your feedback on this episode! Leadership Test: Are you Bill Clinton or David Letterman?When crisis hits your senior living community, there are two ways leaders show up: Deny, deflect, and damage trust (Bill Clinton strategy) Own it, address it, and build stronger relationships (David Letterman strategy) The truth? You can't lead through crisis by pretending it’s not happening. You can only lead through it with influence, authenticity, and proactive communication. In this week's episode of Aspire for More with Erin, I sit down with PR crisis expert Jeff Bell to break down: ▪️ Why crisis communication isn’t about perfection—it’s about ownership. ▪️ The 3 biggest mistakes leaders make in times of crisis. ▪️ How to lead through vulnerability, not around it.If you're a senior living leader, you can't afford to miss this conversation. Your reputation is built in the hard moments. Your influence is measured when things go wrong—not when everything’s going right.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:51 Jeff Bell's Professional Journey01:31 Think Tank and Parenting Insights02:37 Crisis Management: Clinton vs. Letterman03:38 Lessons from Clinton and Letterman Scandals06:22 Crisis Management in Senior Living08:27 The Importance of Transparency and Honesty12:56 Handling Online Reviews and Personal Accountability15:03 Emotional Intelligence in Leadership19:38 Media Training and Public Relations23:02 Humility and Power in Crisis Management25:05 Understanding True Humility26:05 The Short-Lived Pain of Truth27:25 The Consequences of Hiding29:41 Handling Criticism and Crisis30:26 The Importance of Crisis Planning37:16 Transparency Over Perfection40:16 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Learn more about the 100% Leader here New ED's Playbook to Creating and IMpactful Community CultrueConnect with me on LinkedInFollow me on Facebook where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Follow me on Instagram where I educate, equip and empower family members how to proactively care for their elderly loved ones.Join my email list where I will lift you up, and send tactile advice weekly to support you to grow your experience in your senior living career.