The Meritage Project

Behind every title is a person, with a story worth hearing. In this episode of The Meritage Project, host Phil Lord sits down with Solera’s newest Executive Director, Jess Tougeron — a leader whose path from retail and hospitality to senior living is rooted in connection and purpose.Jess reflects on her early influences, the experiences that shaped her leadership, and the unexpected transition that led her to senior living. What began as a career shift quickly became a calling — one centered on creating joy, building relationships, and honoring each resident’s story.Along the way, her personality shines through — from her love of mini Highland cows to the meaningful (and often humorous) bonds she forms with residents. With warmth and authenticity, she shares the lessons that guide her today and the legacy she hopes to leave: to make people feel seen, valued, and happy.Thank you to our sponsor, ALIS: https://www.go-alis.com/

Behind every title is a person, with a story worth hearing.In this episode of The Meritage Project, host Phil Lord sits down with The Reserve at Lake Austin resident, artist, and storyteller Erik Sprohge — a man whose life has spanned continents, careers, and creative expression. From his early childhood in Latvia and Germany to building a life in Houston, Erik reflects on the experiences that shaped his identity, his artistry, and his perspective on the world.Trained as an architect and later known for his watercolor and acrylic work, Erik shares how precision, curiosity, and imagination have guided him through each chapter of life. But for Erik, art has never simply been about technique — it has always been about storytelling. Through his work, he captures not just places and moments, but the deeper reflections that come with time, change, and lived experience.Now residing at The Reserve at Lake Austin, Erik offers an honest and deeply human perspective on aging, love, and legacy. He speaks candidly about caring for his wife, Helen, navigating the realities of memory loss, and finding meaning in this current chapter of life — one filled with both gratitude and complexity.With humor, humility, and wisdom, Erik reminds us that life is not about having all the answers, but about continuing to evolve, to create, and to be unapologetically yourself.Thank you to our sponsor, ALIS: https://www.go-alis.com/

Behind every title is a person, with a story worth hearing. In this episode of The Meritage Project, host Phil Lord sits down with Solera’s Corporate Director of Culinary Experience, Chef Kristen Burman — a leader known for her creativity, heart, and the joy she brings to every kitchen. Kristen reflects on growing up in a close-knit Chicago family, the discipline and love that shaped her, and the path that led her from competitive athletics to culinary school and a life in food. Along the way, she discovered a simple truth: meals matter most when they bring people together. Now in senior living, her purpose is clearer than ever. Whether learning the story behind a resident’s favorite recipe or honoring a special request, Kristen believes great hospitality starts with listening. For her, it’s not about recognition — it’s about connection, service, and community. With warmth and humility, she shares the lessons that guide her leadership, the balance of family life, and the value she hopes to pass on: when you start something, you finish it.

Behind every title is a person, with a story worth hearing. In this episode of The Meritage Project, host Phil Lord sits down with Clark Weaver, a resident of Trulee Evanston, whose life journey spans family, faith, military service, and decades in law and public service. Clark shares reflections from a life well lived — from growing up in the Midwest and serving in the U.S. Army, to building a long, fulfilling career as an attorney and judge. He opens up about the values that shaped him along the way: integrity, loyalty, compassion, and the importance of playing the hand you’re dealt. In this heartfelt conversation, we explore the influence of family and marriage, the lessons learned from leadership on and off the bench, and how community continues to give life meaning in this season. With warmth, humility, and humor, Clark reminds us that legacy isn’t about titles — it’s about how we show up for others. Join us for a moving story of perspective, purpose, and living fully in the moment.

Behind every title is a person, with a story worth hearing. In this episode of The Meritage Project, host Phil Lord sits down with Brian Geyser, Head of Clinical Innovation at Inspiren, to explore the life experiences that shaped his professional path — beginning with one-on-one clinical care and evolving into work that improves lives at scale through technology. At the heart of Brian’s story is a deep commitment to vulnerable populations and a belief that meaningful change begins with listening — to the people, to the work, and even to what isn’t being said. We follow the moments that defined his perspective, the values that guide his leadership, and the personal through-line that connects compassion with innovation. Join us as we share the story of a leader whose drive to help others has only grown as his impact has expanded.

Behind every title is a person, with a story worth hearing. In this episode of The Meritage Project, host Phil Lord sits down with Nicole Graham, Executive Director of Lumina Las Vegas, a Solera Senior Living community. Nicole’s journey embodies resilience, leadership, and a deep commitment to senior living. In this episode, we dive into her personal evolution — the influences that shaped her, the challenges she’s overcome, and the philosophy of service she carries forward. We explore the impact of community, the power of listening, and her drive to continually elevate the lives of residents and families. Join us as we share the story of a leader who blends innovation with genuine human warmth.

Behind every title is a person, with a story worth hearing. In this episode of The Meritage Project, host Phil Lord sits down with Jessie Lucci, Founder and CEO of AllieHealth. Their conversation traces the moments that defined her path — the people who guided her, the challenges that taught her, and the purpose that continues to drive her work today.Their conversation offers an authentic look at the personal story of someone who drives innovation forward with empathy — reminding us that progress in senior living begins and ends with people.

Behind every title is a person, with a story worth hearing. In this inaugural episode of The Meritage Project, host Phil Lord sits down with Solera’s Founder & CEO, Adam Kaplan. Through authentic conversation, Adam reflects on the life experiences and lessons that shaped him — both personally and professionally.This opening conversation sets the tone for the project itself: an ongoing journey to share the voices and stories of those at the heart of senior living — the people.Blending voices. Creating legacy. This is The Meritage Project.

Behind every title is a person, with a story worth hearing. In the upcoming inaugural episode of The Meritage Project, our host, Solera's COO Phil Lord sits down with Solera’s Founder & CEO, Adam Kaplan. Through authentic conversation, Adam reflects on the life experiences and lessons that shaped him — both personally and professionally.This opening conversation sets the tone for the project itself: an ongoing journey to share the voices and stories of those at the heart of senior living — the people.Blending voices. Creating legacy. This is The Meritage Project.