I'm IN!

When I looked at the Trifectas for Jay Duty and Scott Beard, I did an actual double take.Jay is the COO of Maxwell TEC and he is a Connector • Communicator • Synthesizer. Scott is the Chief Strategy Officer and an Organizer • Designer • Strategist.Six of The Hodges 12 types of Creative Genius, half the framework in one conversation. And I don't think that's a coincidence I think it's a big part of why they make such a powerful team.We recorded live at Mandalay Bay during the Interim HealthCare Franchise Partnership Conference. Three old friends talking about what it takes to innovate inside healthcare's most disruptive season.A few of the threads we pulled on:·      Why Jay's COO wiring isn't about running systems it's about reading the room, translating the message, and pulling ideas from everywhere·      What it feels like for Scott to be a Strategist with the title Chief Strategy Officer (almost too on the nose)·      The blind spots every Creative Genius has and why your team needs the types it's missing·      What question they recommend your should ask when your team is stuck and you don't know whyTo connect with the guys:Jay Duty: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-duty-7262747/Scott Beard: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-beard-01003723/www.MaxwellTEC.comTo take The Hodges 12 Types of Creative Genius assessment:Visit: www.heatherhodges.com

This week I sit down with Dana Rutland, a senior HR executive whose career has been shaped by a simple truth: she loves solving the problems that can't be handled by a checklist or an algorithm. Dana has served as CHRO at Right at Home and VP of HR at Impro Industries, and on The Hodges 12 she's a Cultivator–Synthesizer–Communicator Which means she's wired to grow people, connect dots across silos, and translate complexity into something teams can actually use.Right now, Dana is in what I call a sacred in-between, a discernment season where she's asking big questions about the next chapter. Our conversation moves through the moments that shaped her leadership, from the young employee she coached, to her father's simple but unforgettable advice about never settling for a job that has you praying for Saturday.A few of my favorite moments from this episode:Why Dana never set out to be in HR, and how her problem-solving instinct quietly led her there anywayThe coaching story that shows what a Cultivator actually does when someone walks in ready to quitWhy the "messy middle" is where the most meaningful leadership happensRunning a marathon at a sprint's pace, and the permission we all need to finally slow downThe closing charge every HR leader needs to hear: your gifts matter, and never, ever settleIf you've ever felt the pull between who you've been and who you're becoming, this one is for you.Want to discover your own Creative Genius Trifecta like Dana did? Take the Hodges 12 assessment at www.heatherhodges.comConnect with Dana:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-rutland/To take The Hodges 12 Types of Creative Genius assessment:Visit: www.heatherhodges.com

In this episode Heather sits down with Riley Simpson, the founder of LeapYear, a life accelerator for high school graduates designed to help young people discover their identity, purpose, and direction before rushing into the next chapter. Riley is a bold entrepreneur, passionate advocate for the next generation, and a fellow ACU Wildcat. On the Hodges 12 Types of Creative Genius™, Riley is a Connector—Synthesizer—Teacher.In This Episode, We Talk About:What LeapYear is and why Riley believes young people need a different kind of startThe moment he realized he'd essentially built a business out of everything he lovesHow he went from zero to a complete 12-month program, in only12 monthsWhat surprised him about seeing "Teacher" in his TrifectaThe micro-commitment growth edge he's actively working on, and the accountability system he's put in placeWhy Connectors and Synthesizers can be especially prone to overpromising and underdelivering (and what to do about it)What he wants to learn from the Functional Creative Genius types, and why Builders fascinate himThe question he wants every future guest to answer: "Which creative genius type do you most want to learn from?"Riley's Creative Genius Trifecta: Connector — Intuitively sees potential matches between people, opportunities, and resources. Synthesizer — Integrates insights across multiple fields and weaves diverse information into new solutions. Teacher — Breaks down complex concepts and equips others with the knowledge, tools, and resources to grow.Connect with Riley:https://www.linkedin.com/in/rileywsimpson/https://www.startleapyear.comTo take The Hodges 12 Types of Creative Genius assessment:Visit: www.thehodges12.com

What happens when a shark and a shrink walk into a podcast studio together? You get one of the most honest, insightful, and warmhearted conversations about creativity and leadership you've ever heard.Trey Reese is the Chief Operating Officer of Brightmoor Hospice and a board member of the Georgia Hospice and Palliative Care Organization. He is a leader who has spent his career at the intersection of law, compassionate care, and people development. On The Hodges 12, Trey is a Cultivator— Communicator— Healer and in this episode, you'll see exactly why that combination is so powerful.Trey and Heather explore what it really means to be creative when you've never called yourself a creative person, why the Cultivator's work is often invisible until years later, and how his Trifecta showed up in a single, pivotal conversation with a colleague, before he even realized what he was doing.What You'll Hear in This Episode:Why Trey never considered himself creative, and what changedThe invisible nature of the Cultivator genius: planting seeds and trusting the long gameThe kudos card that arrived two years in the making, and what it revealedHow his Healer genius goes straight for the root cause beneath what's being saidWhy humor and playfulness are essential leadership tools (yes, even in hospice)The courage it takes to share your biggest failures, and why people love itTrey's powerful message to anyone convinced they are not creative: "You're wrong."Percy the Penguin's lightning round, including a question from previous guest Jen ElliottConnect with Trey: Reach out directly, he welcomes real conversations.https://www.brightmoorhospice.comTo take The Hodges 12 Types of Creative Genius assessment:Visit: www.thehodges12.com

What does it look like when a visionary leader finally lands in the perfect role? In this episode, Heather sits down with Michael Mead, CEO of EDC Communications, whose Hodges 12 Creative Genius Trifecta is Strategist— Synthesizer—Communicator, and it perfectly matches a career built on helping experts become exceptional communicators.Michael didn't expect "Synthesizer” to be in his trifecta, but the discovery unlocked an insight for him. A lifelong book and podcast junkie, he now has language for why his brain is in constant search of patterns, pulling together insights from wildly different places to find solutions no one else sees. He also gets refreshingly honest about the downsides of his wiring: moving too fast for the people around him, getting mentally overloaded, accidentally casting vision to people he can't yet invite in. Full of practical wisdom on cognitive reset, scaling impact, and the creative conditions that unlock his best thinking. If you've ever felt like you're running ahead of your own capacity, this episode is for you.Connect with Michael: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-mead/www.thinkedc.comTo take The Hodges 12 Types of Creative Genius assessment:Visit: www.thehodges12.com

What happens when a physical therapist trades the clinic for healthcare marketing, and discovers her creative genius was working behind the scenes all along? In this episode, Heather sits down with Rachel Taylor, Market Manager at Agape Care Group/Georgia Hospice Care, whose Hodges 12 Creative Genius Trifecta is Connector—Healer—Communicator, maps perfectly onto her life's work.Rachel never would have called herself creative. But through this conversation, she unpacks how creativity shows up in the most unexpected places: transforming a patient's room into a mini beach, coordinating a final wedding, and meeting grieving families exactly where their fear lives. She shares why creativity isn't "extra," it's how you multiply impact, and how great leaders create the psychological safety their teams need to take risks, fail forward, and grow. If you've ever wondered what creativity looks like in a high-stakes, deeply human industry, this episode is for you.Connect with Rachel:https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-taylor-a234a3202/https://agapecaregroup.com To take The Hodges 12 Types of Creative Genius assessment:Visit: www.thehodges12.com

In this special live episode from the Georgia Hospice and Palliative Care Organization annual conference, host Heather Hodges sits down with Natalie McNeil, Director of Hospice and In-Home Palliative Care, and Dr. Mary Keith, Medical Director at the Hospice of Northeast Georgia Health System, to explore what creativity really looks like in hospice care. Through the lens of the Hodges 12 Creative Genius assessment, Natalie (Cultivator–Strategist–Designer) and Dr. Keith (Communicator–Synthesizer–Organizer) share how they’ve learned to see themselves as creative leaders, far beyond traditional ideas of art and talent.Together they unpack how regulations can serve as a starting line instead of a ceiling, why “no” is the fastest way to kill innovation, and how collaborative, non-hierarchical teams generate the best ideas for patients and families. Along the way, they reframe hospice from something associated with giving up to a space for abundant, intentional life all the way to the end, where creativity shows up in every home, every family, and every conversation.Connect with Natalie McNeal & Dr. Mary King: https://www.nghs.com/hospiceTo take The Hodges 12 Types of Creative Genius assessment:Visit: www.thehodges12.com

Jen Elliott is back! As the Executive Director of Heart of Georgia Hospice, Jen brings a rare combination to everything she leads: the precision of an Organizer, the big-picture thinking of a Strategist, and the people-centered heart of a Cultivator. That Trifecta is an absolute force of nature.In this episode, we dig into what it really means to lead creatively in hospice care, and why the people who say "I'm not creative" are often the most creative people in the room. Jen opens up about the moments she's held her creativity back, the ideas that almost didn't make it, and how she nurtures creative courage in the people she leads.If you've ever wondered what human-centered innovation looks like from the inside of a hospice organization, this conversation will remind you why human creativity is still the most powerful tool we have.Connect with Jen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-elliott-rn-30905b139/https://heartofgahospice.orgTo take The Hodges 12 Types of Creative Genius assessment:Visit: www.thehodges12.com

Hannah Tomlinson is the CEO of HT Executive Search, where she helps healthcare organizations find director to C-suite talent while consulting and training talent acquisition teams on best practices and strategy. With experience spanning agency and in-house recruiting across all 50 states, Hannah brings a rare blend of relational depth and strategic precision to everything she does.On The Hodges 12 Types of Creative Genius™, Hannah is a Connector-Strategist-Healer — and once you hear her talk about her work, you'll understand exactly why.In this episode, Hannah shares how her creative genius shows up in talent acquisition, what conditions help her do her best work, and why creativity is more essential to healthcare recruiting than most people realize. We also dig into what kills innovation before it has a chance to take root and what leaders can do about it.What you'll hear in this episode:How Hannah's Connector-Strategist-Healer trifecta shapes the way she leads and serves clientsWhat surprised her most when she saw her creative genius profileThe role creativity plays in executive recruiting that most people overlookWhat kills creativity and innovation in organizations and how to protect against itWhat Hannah is building right now and why she's excited about itConnect with Hannah: www.htesearch.comlinkedin.com/in/hannah-tomlinson-272747bTo take The Hodges 12 Types of Creative Genius assessment:Visit: www.thehodges12.com

This week on the podcast, we have a special treat for you. We are giving you the first few chapters of my newly released leadership audiobook.  So sit back, enjoy, and if you love what you hear, you can grab the full audiobook on Amazon or Audible. Here is Heart Work: How to Lead People, Build Culture, and Unleash Creativity in Home Care.To get your copy of Heart Work on Audible, visit: https://a.co/d/00vZcLo0 To Connect with Heather go to:www.heatherhodges.comTo take The Hodges 12 Types of Creative Genius assessment:Visit: www.thehodges12.com

Elizabeth Vahey Smith is a trauma-informed leadership expert, soft skills coach, and COO of TCK Training. With an MA in Linguistics and certification as a Trauma-Informed Care Practitioner, she's built a career around making complex human dynamics simple and actionable for leaders. She's authored several books including Trauma-Informed Leadership and The Practice of Processing, co-authored three white papers on trauma in Third Culture Kids, and conducted original research on psychological safety in the workplace.Oh, and she does all of this while traveling the world full-time with her family. They have visited 25+ countries and counting with the globe as her children's classroom.On The Hodges 12, Elizabeth is a Healer-Synthesizer-Cultivator. In this episode, we explore how this creative trifecta shows up in her work: healing workplace trauma, synthesizing complicated concepts into clear frameworks, and cultivating environments where teams can thrive. We also dig into what creativity means when you're working across cultures, what kills innovation before it starts, and the surprising creative thought that caught even her off guard.To Connect with Elizabeth:Website: https://elizabethvaheysmith.comLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-vahey-smith-3ba0251b3/Access Elizabeth’s Free 1-Hour Training:https://elizabethvaheysmith.myboss.io/free-1-hr-diagnostic-trainingTo take The Hodges 12 Types of Creative Genius assessment:Visit: www.thehodges12.com

In this episode, Heather sits down with one of her oldest friends, Cecilia de la Hoz, who joins the podcast from Madrid, Spain. Cecilia is a Partner at EY-Parthenon and specializes in corporate valuation. Cecilia and Heather have been friends since 8th grade at the American School of Paris. Before taking the assessment, Cecilia never would have called herself creative, but her results tell a different story. The Hodges 12 profile revealed her powerful creative trifecta: Connector-Communicator-Synthesizer.This warm conversation explores how creativity shows up in unexpected places, how cultural background shapes creative expression, and why even analytical professionals have creative genius waiting to be recognized.Key Takeaways:You don't have to be an artist to be creative. Cecilia's work as a consultant requires synthesizing complex information and communicating it clearly to clientsThe Connector-Communicator-Synthesizer trifecta thrives on building relationships, translating ideas across audiences, and pulling together diverse information into coherent insightsCecilia shares the ways she is now leaning into her creativity and making room for incubation.Percy the Penguin Segment: Cecilia translates "Creative Genius" into multiple languages; hear how creativity sounds in Spanish, French, and German!Connect with Cecilia:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ceciliadelahoz/Take the Assessment: Discover your creative genius type at www.thehodges12.comConnect with Heather:Website: www.HeatherHodges.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-l-hodges-phd-07400a142/

In this episode, Heather takes us back to her 8th-grade art class at the American School of Paris, where Mr. Kingsley made every student feel like Claude Monet in training. But not everyone had a Mr. Kingsley, many of us had our creative identity stolen at a young age. Heather explores the five systemic ways creativity gets killed in our lives and organizations. If you've ever packed away your creative self and learned to color inside the lines, this episode is for you.Key Takeaways:School taught us there's one right answer, so fear of being wrong causes us to skip divergent thinking and jump straight to finding the "correct" solutionCreativity has been optimized out of the schedule and you cannot innovate on a ruthlessly optimized calendar.We say we want innovation but punish every mistake.Well-meaning gatekeepers starve creativity through micromanagement, chronic stress, and criticism that destroys the psychological safety creativity needs to flourishWe defined creativity too narrowly. If you only look for artists and inventors, you'll miss the creative genius all around you, including your ownNext Episode: Special guest Cecilia de la Hoz joins us from Madrid, Spain. She never saw herself as creative until she took The Hodges 12. Fun fact: She and Heather have been friends since 8th grade!Take the Assessment: Discover your creative genius type at www.thehodges12.com Connect with Heather: Website: www.HeatherHodges.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-l-hodges-phd-07400a142/

In this episode, Heather reveals why creativity is more than artistic ability, it's a universal human capacity that shows up in twelve distinct ways. She introduces The Hodges 12 Types of Creative Genius™ framework and walks through each type across three domains: Relational, Analytical, and Functional. Discover why 96% of leaders now say creativity is essential for success, yet 75% of people feel their creative potential is untapped at work. It's time to stop asking "Am I creative?" and start asking "How am I creative?"Key Takeaways:Everyone is creative, and we need everyone’s creativity.Creativity is more than just being good at art, it's the intentional process of generating novel and useful ideas to solve complex problemsYour creativity is a gift; whether you see it through a spiritual or psychological lens, you were born to createThe Creativity Crisis: While 96% of leaders say creativity is essential, 75% of employees feel their creative potential is not being fully used at workThe Hodges 12 Types are organized into three domains: Relational (how you work with PEOPLE), Analytical (how you THINK), and Functional (how you BUILD)Your top three types form your "Creative Genius trifecta" with over 1,300 unique profile combinations possibleTake the Assessment: Discover your creative genius type at www.thehodges12.com Connect with Heather: Website: www.HeatherHodges.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-l-hodges-phd-07400a142/

Welcome to Season 2 of the I'm IN! Podcast, and welcome to the Creative Genius Revolution.This season, I'm on a mission to democratize creativity and help everyone recognize their creative gifts. Here's what I've learned after years of research and thousands of conversations: most people don't think they're creative. They've been told by a teacher, a boss, or a culture that defines creativity too narrowly that it's just not their thing.That’s simply not true. And this season, I'm going to prove it.In this kickoff episode, I share why creativity is so much bigger than art, why human creativity matters more than ever in the age of AI, and what's ahead as we explore the 12 Types of Creative Genius™ together.If you've ever thought "I'm not creative," this episode is your invitation to think again. It's time to become a creative force of nature.In this episode:Why I'm starting a Creative Genius RevolutionThe difference between human creativity and AI "pseudo-creativity"What's coming in Season 2: discovering YOUR creative genius typeWhy the world can't afford for your creativity to stay hiddenTake the 12 Types of Creative Genius™ Assessment: www.thehodges12.com Connect with Heather: Website: www.HeatherHodges.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-l-hodges-phd-07400a142/

In this episode, we explore the heart of deep listening with leadership coach Jon Mullican, founder of the Mullican Leadership Group. Jon is a self-proclaimed Listening Evangelist. He has spent a lifetime learning how to truly pay attention beginning in his years at the US Naval Academy, as a nuclear power officer aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln, in corporate leadership, and across his work in churches and nonprofits. He’s discovered listening is one of the greatest gifts we can offer another human being.Jon shares a powerful acronym to help us prepare ourselves for meaningful listening moments: CLEAR Clear your mind Limit distractions Expect an exceptional encounter Allow time for silence (and ask God to bless the encounter) Remember your purposeThis simple framework invites us to be intentional, grounded, and most importantly, fully present.Together, we talk about what it means to be devoted to being present with someone, and how that devotion builds trust, psychological safety, influence, and genuine human connection. If you’re someone who leads, influences, mentors, or simply wants to show up more fully for the people in your life, this conversation will give you tools, stories, and inspiration to listen in a different way.Where to find Jon:Mullican Leadership Grouphttps://www.mullicanlead.com

If you’ve ever been in a meeting where ideas get stuck or only a few voices dominate, this episode will flip your perspective on what collaboration can look like.Dr. Denise Meyerson joins me to explore LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®, a creative facilitation method that helps teams think deeply, communicate openly, and solve problems more playfully. Using LEGO bricks as a language for thinking and storytelling, this method helps people surface insights, align around strategy, and connect in ways that traditional meetings rarely achieve.Dr. Denise is a global pioneer and master trainer in LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® and trains facilitators and leaders all over the world in how to use this hands-on approach to unlock creativity, innovation, and team alignment.In this episode, we explore:·       What makes LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® “serious” and why it works so well·       The psychology behind creative facilitation·       Real-world applications in leadership, innovation, and strategy·       How to become a certified facilitator and bring this method into your own workTo connect with Dr. Denise Meyerson or to become a Certified Facilitator visit:https://seriousplaybusiness.com/

Welcome back to the Enneagram Series! Today we’re wrapping up this solo series by exploring Type 7, The Enthusiast, The Epicure or The Enthusiastic Visionary.Sevens bring joy, energy, and possibility wherever they go. They are spontaneous, optimistic, and endlessly curious. They are always looking for what’s next. But beneath that enthusiasm lies a deep desire to avoid pain and a fear of being deprived or limited.In this episode, Heather explores:·      What drives Enneagram 7s: their Basic Fear, Desire, and Motivation·      How the passion of gluttony shows up as an insatiable hunger for experiences·      The difference between 7s with a strong 6 wing and 7s with a strong 8 wing·      What 7s look like at work; their strengths, blind spots, and leadership style·      How 7s handle stress (Type 1) and growth (Type 5)·      Practical tips for 7s to grow in self-awareness, emotional depth, and follow-throughWhether you’re a 7 yourself or have a 7 in your life or workplace, you’ll come away with a new appreciation for the joyful, visionary spirit they bring, and a deeper understanding of how to support their growth journey.Key Takeaway:When Sevens slow down, stay present, and follow things through, their creativity and optimism become powerful forces for transformation.If you missed earlier episodes in this Enneagram series, go back and listen to explore all nine types.If you are interested in taking the iEQ9 Enneagram Assessment (note there is a fee) please visit: https://www.hodgesgroupintl.com/enneagramtest

Today’s guest knows what it takes to perform at the highest level. Steve Mellor went from being a world-ranked swimmer and coach of an Olympic athlete, to becoming an executive coach trusted by CEOs, entrepreneurs, and elite performers across the globe.He’s the author of Shock the World: A Competitor’s Guide to Realizing Your Potential, and he brings a powerful message; that the pursuit of your optimal self begins not with perfection, but with purpose, self-awareness, and the courage to be growth ready.In this episode, Steve and I explore what it really takes to build a mindset for sustained performance, how the principles of athletic excellence translate to leadership and business, and why the best performers never stop learning who they can become.Whether you’re leading a team, chasing a big goal, or redefining what high performance means to you, this conversation will challenge and inspire you to keep reaching for your own version of greatness.Steve’s story is a reminder that greatness isn’t about chasing perfection, it’s about showing up fully, courageously, and intentionally every day.Connect with Steve Mellor:https://growthready.com

Today, I’m joined by Jennifer Maxwell, Co-Founder and CEO of Maxwell TEC (Tech-Enabled Care), a company reshaping home care by blending technology, servant leadership, and data-driven insight.Jennifer shares how she’s guided Maxwell TEC through a bold rebrand and built a culture where innovation is more than a buzzword, it’s a disciplined practice. We explore how visionary ideas become real-world impact, the lessons learned from initiatives that didn’t go as planned, and how leaders can sustain innovation in risk-averse environments.Jennifer also looks ahead to the next wave of technology that will transform home care and healthcare overall as she reveals her “moonshot” vision for Maxwell TEC by 2030.Key themes: leading innovation, culture and mindset, lessons from failure, and the future of tech-enabled care.To connect with Jennifer Maxwell visit: www.maxwelltec.com

Today’s guest is Bob Roth, an influential leader whose story beautifully bridges purpose, leadership, and the human side of home care. Bob is the Managing Partner and Co-Founder of Cypress HomeCare Solutions, a family-owned agency built from a deeply personal experience of caring for his own mother. That journey inspired a lifelong mission to help others age with dignity.Bob is an award-winning leader and a respected advocate for senior care, ethical leadership, and building people-centered organizations.In this episode, Heather and Bob explore what it means to truly step into your full potential and lead from a place of purpose. They discuss the roots of Cypress HomeCare Solutions, how to preserve a strong family culture as an organization grows, and what it takes to mentor the next generation of compassionate leaders.To connect with Bob Roth:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobrothchs/Email: [email protected]

In today’s episode, Heather continues the Enneagram series with a deep dive into Type 6, The Questioner, Loyal Skeptic, or Devil’s Advocate. Sixes are loyal, responsible, and deeply committed to security and trust, but they often wrestle with anxiety, self-doubt, and overthinking.Heather explores how 6s show up at work and in relationships, their blind spots and fears, and their incredible capacity for courage and loyalty. Ultimately, the 6’s growth lies in learning to trust themselves, to take action even when the path isn’t certain, and to remember that the safety and courage they’re searching for already exists inside them.Highlights include:The Six’s basic fear, motivation, and need for securityHow 6s manage fear through “worst-case scenario” planningThe Wing influences for the 6How 6s respond under stress (Type 3) and in growth (Type 9)Blind spots: overestimating risk, seeking reassurance, and analysis paralysisPractical tips for growth, leadership, and self-trustIf you’re just joining this series, be sure to listen back to previous episodes and stay tuned as we continue to move through all nine numbers.If you are interested in taking the iEQ9 Enneagram Assessment (note there is a fee) please visit: https://www.hodgesgroupintl.com/enneagramtest

I’ve been looking forward to this episode for a while, and I’m excited to welcome my friend, Jay Duty, to the show. Jay is a visionary healthcare leader with deep expertise in strategy, corporate development, and operations. He currently serves as COO at Maxwell TEC, where he helps home health and hospice organizations thrive through tech-enabled care solutions. His career spans leadership roles across both in-patient and post-acute care settings, and he holds a master’s in healthcare administration from Trinity University as well as recognition as a distinguished alumnus of Abilene Christian University (Go Cats!).In this conversation, Jay shares his leadership journey and the philosophy that has guided him from the early days of his career. He offers three powerful axioms he lives by:1. We live under the shade of trees we did not plant.2. Leave a legacy.3. Ask yourself, “Why not me?”This is a thoughtful and inspiring conversation about leadership, growth, and stepping fully into your potential.To connect with Jay Duty:Email: [email protected]: www.maxwelltec.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-duty-7262747/

In this inspiring episode, Heather welcomes Jennifer Maxwell back to the show for a deep dive into leading through constant change in the home care and hospice industry.Jennifer is the co-founder and CEO of Maxwell TEC, where she dedicates her career to helping home care and hospice organizations thrive amid operational, regulatory, cultural, and technological shifts. Her unique perspective comes from a rich background that bridges mental health expertise, executive leadership experience, and hands-on service delivery with aging populations.With her extensive background, Jennifer brings invaluable insights on navigating the rolling waves of disruption that define the home care industry today.This conversation offers both strategic insights and practical tools for leaders who are navigating the complex landscape of home care and hospice. Jennifer shares specific examples of organizations that have successfully transformed challenges into opportunities and provides listeners with actionable strategies they can implement immediately.To connect with Jennifer Maxwell visit: www.maxwelltec.com

In this episode, we continue our journey through the Enneagram by moving from the heart triad into the head triad starting with Type 5, the Investigator. Sometimes called the Observer or Thinker, 5s are perceptive, innovative, and deeply curious, yet they also long for independence, privacy, and competence.We’ll explore what motivates 5s, their greatest fears, and how their drive for knowledge shapes both their strengths and struggles. From their passion for learning to their tendency toward withdrawal and energy conservation, you’ll hear stories and insights that bring this type to life, including personal anecdotes about my own family members who embody this thoughtful number.You’ll also discover:·       The unique dynamic of 5s in the fear triad and withdrawing stance.·       How 5s show up in work and leadership, and what they need most from colleagues.·       The difference between wings 4 and 6 and how they color a 5’s personality.·       What happens when 5s are under stress versus when they’re secure.·       Common blind spots that 5s may not see in themselves.·       Five practical tips for growth and leadership development as a 5.Whether you identify as a 5 or know someone who does, this episode will help you better understand the brilliance, complexity, and courage of this type. If you’re just joining this series, be sure to listen back to previous episodes and stay tuned as we continue to move through all nine numbers.If you are interested in taking the iEQ9 Enneagram Assessment (note there is a fee) please visit: https://www.hodgesgroupintl.com/enneagramtest

What if the same bricks kids build castles with could also help them build emotional insight? Join me as I have an insight conversation with a friend and colleague, John Gambill, MA, LPC, LCDC, as we explore how creative counseling strategies are bringing LEGO® into the therapy room. From helping clients create coping creatures and emotional landscapes to designing personal identity flags and future-focused vision boards, this episode highlights practical, playful interventions backed by research. Whether you're a therapist, educator, or just passionate about the power of creativity, you'll learn how LEGO® can spark meaningful reflection and transformation in the lives of your clients.To connect with John visit:Gambill Counseling & Consulting, PLLC109 N. Jackson Ave., Ste. 103Wylie, TX 75098(469) 443-6512 (call/text)[email protected] out the services John provides on his Psychology Today page:https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/979352

When COVID hit, Donya Winters was on the front lines in a small-town hospital, caring for patients in extreme conditions. A registered nurse, legal nurse consultant, and advocate for healthcare reform, she saw firsthand the toll the pandemic took, not just physically, but emotionally and morally. In this powerful conversation, Donya shares the hidden cost of the pandemic: moral injury. We explore how it differs from burnout, the invisible wounds many clinicians still carry, and the cultural changes needed to truly support those who care for us.She also offers insights from her upcoming book, The Virus, and practical ways for healthcare professionals to begin healing and reclaiming their voice.We discuss:Why moral injury is different from burnout, and why it mattersThe lasting impact COVID had on frontline cliniciansWhat needs to change in healthcare cultureFirst steps toward healing and speaking outTo connect with Donya, visit www.wintersrnconsulting.com

In this episode, Tom Maxwell, co-founder of Maxwell TEC, joins me for a lively conversation about innovation, leadership, and the future of home care. We explore the origin story of Maxwell TEC, the biggest needs he’s hearing from providers, and how empathy, agility, and ingenuity drive their work. Tom shares what’s on his radar for the industry’s future and why building a business with his wife Jennifer has been both a joy and a strength. To connect with Tom visit www.maxwelltec.com.

This week I’m officially launching my new book, Heart Work: How to Lead People, Build Culture, and Unleash Creativity in Home Care. In this episode, I give you a sneak peek by reading the opening pages of the book and walking you through the three main parts:Lead People – How to lead yourself first through this insights of the Enneagram and show up as a leader who inspires trust, connection, and growth.Build Culture – How to create a workplace where people feel safe, valued, and energized.Unleash Creativity – How to tap into fresh thinking and innovation so your team can solve problems and thrive.Whether you work in home care, healthcare, or any people-centered field, Heart Work is packed with real-world strategies, stories, and insights to help you lead with purpose and courage.The book officially launches this week on Amazon. If this conversation resonates with you, I’d love for you to grab your copy and join me in rethinking how we lead and build healthier, more human organizations.To get your copy of “Heart Work: How to Lead People, Build Culture, and Unleash Creativity in Home Care” got to: https://a.co/d/elFByho

In this episode, we explore the most emotionally rich and complex number on the Enneagram, Type 4, also known as The Romantic or Individualist. With their deep need to be seen as unique and significant, Fours bring unmatched creativity, emotional honesty, and depth to every space they enter.Dr. Heather unpacks what makes Fours so special, and so misunderstood. From their comfort with melancholy to their longing for identity, belonging, and beauty, Type 4s have a unique superpower: the ability to bear witness to pain. You’ll hear how this shows up in leadership, relationships, and the workplace, along with insights on wings, stress and growth patterns, blind spots, and pathways to personal development.In this episode, we’ll explore:·       Why Fours are the rarest and most emotionally complex Enneagram type·       Their motivations, fears, and deep desire for meaning·       How Type 4s show up at work and in leadership·       Common blind spots and five growth strategies for Fours·       How to support and connect with a Four in your life or on your teamIf you are a 4, or you love or work with one, this episode will help you appreciate their creative gifts, emotional intensity, and need for authenticity.Want to find your type or go deeper? Take the iEQ9 Enneagram Assessment at: https://www.hodgesgroupintl.com/enneagramtest

In this episode, Heather unpacks the surprising psychology of procrastination and reveals a deeper, less obvious cause of procrastination, The Jonah Complex. This is a term coined by Abraham Maslow to describe the fear of our own greatness. It is the kind of procrastination that keeps you from stepping into your true calling.Heather shares her personal Jonah Complex moment and the emotional tension between safety and self-actualization. Whether you’re putting off a task or postponing a dream, this episode offers a blend of storytelling, research, and real-world strategies to help you move forward.In this deeply personal solo episode, you’ll hear:·       The surprising connection between procrastination and purpose· Heather’s own Jonah moment, and what finally pushed her forward·       How the fear of visibility and vulnerability often hides beneath “I’m just not ready”·       What Maslow’s theory of self-actualization has to teach us about courage·       A powerful invitation to stop running and start becoming who you were meant to be.Listen now and take your next courageous step, not when the timing is perfect, but because you’re ready.

In this episode, we’re joined by the extraordinary Kim Tate, a registered nurse with over 30 years of experience in home health and hospice. As the founder of Tate Healthcare Consulting Solutions, Kim partners with agencies and leaders to elevate care, strengthen operations, and drive sustainable growth.We explore Kim’s inspiring leadership journey and the pivotal moments that shaped her bold and strategic leadership style. We also explore her Enneagram type, the overlooked barriers to quality and financial success in home care, and how to lead with purpose in a rapidly changing healthcare landscape.You’ll hear:·       Kim’s reflections on leadership, excellence, and courage·       The most common challenges home care agencies face and how to overcome them·       Advice for nurses and clinical leaders ready to take the leap into their next chapter·       Her take on emerging trends in home health and hospice careA special appearance from Percy the Penguin with questions on self-care and legacy.Whether you’re a home care leader, nurse, or just someone seeking inspiration to lead with heart and boldness this episode is for you.Connect with Kim Tate and learn more about her work at www.tatehealthcaresolutions.com

In this solo episode, Heather explores what it takes to lead well when everything feels uncertain. Using Dr. Elisabeth Kübler-Ross’s well-known Change Curve, originally developed to describe the stages of grief, Heather walks us through how people emotionally process change, and how leaders can guide them through it with steadiness, compassion, and strength.You’ll learn:·       The emotional stages of change: denial, anger, depression, acceptance, and integration·       How to meet your team where they are without rushing them or losing momentum·       What it means to be a less-anxious presence in a time of upheaval·       Why managing your own internal state is the most powerful leadership move you can make·       How to unlock creativity on the other side of changeHeather offers real-world strategies to help you support your team, adjust your communication style, and stay grounded even when everything seems to be shifting under your feet."The most important work we do as leaders is the work we do on ourselves."If your team is facing uncertainty, or you're walking through change yourself, this episode offers a steady hand and a hopeful path forward.Contact us with podcast ideas: [email protected]

In this episode, we explore the high-energy, ambitious, and success-driven world of Enneagram 3s, also known as The Performer or Achiever. Threes are adaptable, goal-focused, and image-conscious, with a deep desire to be valuable, admired, and successful.We’ll explore: • The core fears, motivations, and strengths of a 3 • How their drive for achievement can be both inspiring and exhausting • Their wings (2 and 4) and how they shape their personality • What stress and growth look like for 3s • Blind spots and strategies for personal and professional growthJoin me as we uncover the drive, depth, and hidden challenges behind Enneagram 3s.If you are interested in taking the iEQ9 Enneagram Assessment visit: https://www.hodgesgroupintl.com/enneagramtest

What does it take to lead with vision and conviction in a world full of ambiguity? In this powerful episode, Heather sits down with Natalie Venable, home health and hospice consultant and Founder and CEO of Thrive Healthcare Solutions, to explore the real work of leadership in complex, regulated, emotionally charged environments.Natalie opens up about what it means to lead “in the gray” when compliance and compassion don’t always align, and there’s no easy playbook to follow. She also shares her journey as an Enneagram One, and how self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and values-based decision-making have shaped her leadership path.🐧 Plus, don’t miss Percy’s questions where Natalie answers a few surprise questions that reveal her heart and vision.To connect with Natalie Venable please visit: www.thrivehealthtx.com

In this episode, we sit down with Jennifer Maxwell, Co-Founder and CEO of the newly rebranded Maxwell TEC (Tech Enabled Care), a trailblazing company at the forefront of transforming home-based care. Jennifer shares the vision behind the rebrand, and explains how Maxwell TEC blends scalable technology, tailored expertise, and data-backed strategies to deliver lasting results across the care continuum. We also dive into her leadership journey and hear powerful reflections on what it means to lead as a woman in today’s evolving healthcare landscape. With warmth and clarity, Jennifer offers practical wisdom on building sustainable solutions, empowering teams, and bridging the critical gap between innovation and real-world care delivery. Whether you're in home care, health tech, or simply passionate about leadership and transformation, this episode will leave you inspired.To connect Jennifer visit: www.maxwelltec.com

What happens when operational excellence meets cutting-edge innovation? You get today’s guest, Beau Sorensen.With over 25 years in home health and hospice, Beau is a transformative leader and the current COO of First Choice Home Health & Hospice, where he has helped propel the agency to a CMS 5-star rating. Beau is widely regarded as the leading expert in applying artificial intelligence to post-acute care, and his impact is reshaping how organizations think about care delivery, technology, and the future of healthcare.In this episode, we explore:·       How Beau got started in home care and what’s kept him committed to the field·       Practical ways AI is improving outcomes, streamlining operations, and elevating patient care·       Why innovation doesn’t have to mean losing the human touch·       The biggest missteps organizations make when implementing new tech·       A sneak peek at emerging trends Beau is watching closelyThis episode is packed with insight, strategy, and vision. Don’t miss it.To connect with Beau you can find him on LinkedIn (be sure to mention you heard him on the I’m IN! podcast), or email him at [email protected].

What does it take to build a high-performing team that thrives on purpose, connection, and results? In this episode, we sit down with Monique Thornquist, CEO of Inteli-Care and a powerhouse leader with nearly 20 years of experience in home care operations. Known for her strategic mind and people-first leadership, Monique shares what it really means to cultivate a strong organizational culture, and why it’s the secret sauce behind great teams and great outcomes.From spotting early signs of culture drift to shaping environments where every team member feels seen and valued, Monique offers actionable insights for leaders at every level. Whether you’re stepping into a new leadership role or refining the culture on your current team, this conversation will leave you inspired and equipped to lead with heart and intention.We cover:·       How to assess team culture when stepping into a new role·       What strong (and struggling) cultures look like day to day·       Why culture is more than just a buzzword, it’s a business imperative·       Monique’s three essential ingredients for a thriving culture·       Practical advice for leaders who want to build belonging from day onePull up a chair for this rich conversation on the power of culture, purpose, and leadership that lasts.To connect with Monique visit www.inteli-care.com. 

In a galaxy not so far away… we’re celebrating May the Fourth by combining two of my favorite things: the wisdom of the Enneagram and the epic characters of Star Wars! Join me as I boldly (and playfully) explore what might happen if Obi-Wan, Leia, Yoda, and even Han Solo took an Enneagram test. Which type is Luke Skywalker? Why does Kylo Ren feel so much? And what makes Princess Leia the fierce, protective leader we all admire?We’ll dig into each of the nine Enneagram types using Star Wars icons to illuminate the strengths, struggles, and motivations behind each number. It’s part insight, part fandom, and 100% fun.Whether you’re a longtime Enneagram nerd or just here for the lightsabers, you’ll walk away with new insights about yourself, your team, and maybe even your favorite scruffy-looking nerf herder.So grab your blue milk, press play, and remember: the first rule of the Enneagram is never type real people... but fictional ones? Fair game.May the Fourth be with you. Always.If you are interested in taking the iEQ9 Enneagram Assessment visit: https://www.hodgesgroupintl.com/enneagramtest

In this episode, we explore the warm, generous, and people-centered world of Enneagram 2s—also known as The Giver or Helper. Twos are intuitive, caring, and connection-driven, with a deep need to be needed and a gift for nurturing the people around them. We’ll explore: • The core fears, motivations, and strengths of a 2 • How their giving nature can be both beautiful and complicated • Their wings (1 and 3) and how they shape their personality • What stress and growth look like for 2s • Blind spots and strategies for personal and professional growth Join me as we uncover the heart, hope, and hidden challenges behind Enneagram 2s. If you are interested in taking the iEQ9 Enneagram Assessment visit: https://www.hodgesgroupintl.com/enneagramtest

What if the path to healing, connection, and joy was paved with creativity? In this powerful episode, we sit down with artist and visionary leader Beth Inglish to explore how creativity isn’t just about making art—it’s about making meaning. Beth shares how unlocking your creative voice can shift you from fear into joy, from surviving into thriving. Drawing from her own journey of healing through art and founding the Nashville Creative Group, Beth offers inspiring insights on the intersection of creativity, emotional intelligence, and leadership. Together, we explore: How creativity helps us move through fear and access joyWhy emotional intelligence is essential to the creative processThe role of community in supporting creative expressionPractical ways to reconnect with your creativity—even if you don’t call yourself an artist Beth’s message is clear: Joy transforms lives, and creativity makes it possible. Whether you’re a leader, creator, or someone craving more meaning, this conversation will leave you inspired to trust your intuition, embrace your voice, and create from the inside out. To connect with Beth please visit www.bethinglish.com

Creativity isn’t a happy accident—it’s a skill that teams can develop with intention. In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Amy Climer, a leading expert in team creativity and innovation. With clients like the Mayo Clinic and Stanford University, Amy teaches leaders how to deliberately cultivate the conditions that unlock breakthrough ideas.Amy is the author of Deliberate Creative Teams: How to Lead for Innovative Results and host of The Deliberate Creative Podcast. In our conversation, she breaks down the difference between creativity and innovation, debunks the myth that only some people are creative, and shares practical strategies that help teams innovate on demand.We explore:The core elements required for team creativityWhat leaders often get wrong about innovationWhy creativity is hard—and how to make it easierA simple mindset shift to help you reclaim your creative confidenceWhether you’re leading a team or just trying to think differently, this episode offers a powerful framework for building creative capacity on purpose—and with purpose. To connect with Dr. Amy Climer go to www.climerconsulting.com

What if the key to better leadership, deeper connection, and greater impact is already inside you waiting to be unleashed?In this episode of I’m IN! Heather sits down with internationally acclaimed storytelling powerhouse David Hutchens, author of Story Dash, Circle of the 9 Muses, and creator of the Leadership Story Deck. David has worked with global giants like NASA, Walmart, and Coca-Cola to unlock the power of narrative in business—and today, he’s here to help you do the same.Together, Heather and David explore:Why storytelling is the most human—and effective—technology in leadershipHow to quickly access your best stories with “lightning-fast” techniquesThe neuroscience behind why stories connect usWhy your brain lights up when you hear a good story (and how to use that on your team)How leaders can turn storytelling into strategy for innovation, engagement, and transformationWhether you think you’re “not a good storyteller” or you’re looking to level up your leadership, this episode is your invitation to step into the narrator role and start shaping stories that move people.And yes, Percy the Penguin pops in with a few great questions, too.To connect with David please visit https://www.storytellingleader.com/David’s latest book, The Story Dash, and his other resources are available on Amazon and anywhere books are sol.

In this exciting episode of the I’m IN! Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Michelle Griffin, CEO of Griffin Resources, an end-to-end business solutions provider based in Tampa, Florida. Dr. Griffin holds a PhD in Industrial-Organizational Psychology and has mastered the art of running multiple businesses simultaneously.Join us as we explore how creativity fuels her ability to launch and scale multiple companies at once. Michelle shares how creative insights from one business often spark innovation in others, her strategies for overcoming creative roadblocks, and the powerful mindset shifts that help her reframe setbacks as catalysts for growth.Tune in to be inspired by Michelle’s creativity, resilience, and bold approach to building businesses. Listen now and keep saying “I’m IN!” to creativity, growth, and transformation!To connect with Michelle, visit:https://griffin-resources.com/

In this episode, we continue our Enneagram series by exploring Type 1s – The Perfectionist, Reformer, or Improver. As part of the Gut (Anger) Triad 1s are principled, disciplined, and detail-oriented but they often struggle with self-criticism and perfectionism. Their inner critic is relentless and pushes them to correct mistakes and uphold high standards. Join me as we discuss their core motivations, blind spots, workplace behaviors, and pathways for personal growth.Core fear: Being corrupt, evil, or defectiveStrengths: Ethical, organized, honest, and purposefulGrowth: Practice self-acceptance, embrace imperfection, and delegate tasksWork & Leadership: Industrious, reliable, and structured, but may struggle with delegation and letting goAs leaders, 1s inspire others with their commitment to doing things right and their dedication to improving systems. Tune in to learn how to channel the strengths of this disciplined and idealistic type!If you are interested in taking the iEQ9 Enneagram Assessment visit: https://www.hodgesgroupintl.com/enneagramtest

In this episode, we continue our Enneagram series by exploring Type 9s – The Mediator or Adaptive Peacemaker. As part of the Gut (Anger) Triad and the Withdrawn Stance, 9s are easygoing, patient, and accepting but can struggle with inertia and avoiding conflict. Beneath their calm exterior, they struggle with inertia, indecisiveness, and unexpressed anger. Join me as we explore their core motivations, blind spots, workplace behaviors, and pathways for personal growth. Core fear: Loss & separation Strengths: Trustworthy, kind, creative, and natural mediators Growth: Assert yourself, set priorities, and express your needs Work & Leadership: Consensus-driven, stabilizing, and quietly influential As leaders, 9s have the power to unite and lead in a way that fosters harmony and collaboration. Tune in to learn how to harness the strengths of this compassionate and steady type! If you are interested in taking the iEQ9 Enneagram Assessment visit: https://www.hodgesgroupintl.com/enneagramtest

When leadership causes harm—whether through toxic behaviors, neglect, or systemic issues—the effects can be lasting. In this episode I sit down with Dr. April Minatrea a psychologist who specializes in leadership injuries, to explore: What leadership injuries are and how they impact individuals and teams. The most common ways leaders unintentionally harm employees. How to heal from a leadership injury and rebuild trust. Practical advice for both employees and leaders navigating these challenges. If you’ve ever experienced a leadership injury or want to ensure you’re fostering a workplace culture that uplifts rather than wounds, this episode is a must-listen. To find Dr. April Minatrea or inquire about the Leadership Injury Project, please www.DrAprilSpeaks.com

Creativity isn’t just for artists—it’s a business imperative. Yet, while most organizations claim to value creativity, many unknowingly stifle it through leadership behaviors and rigid workplace cultures. So, how can leaders truly unlock the creative potential within their teams? In this episode I sit down with Shannon Tremel, a dynamic business leader with three decades of sales experience, including 18 years in healthcare. Shannon shares her insights on:Why creativity is a competitive advantage in today’s business landscapeLeadership behaviors that foster (or hinder) innovationHow to create psychological safety so employees feel empowered to take creative risksThe role of failure in driving breakthrough ideasPractical strategies for leaders who want to cultivate a culture of creativityJoin us for a thought-provoking conversation on how leaders can champion creativity in their teams and organizations.To connect with Shannon:https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-tremel/https://griffin-resources.com