I'm IN!

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: bobroth@cypresshomecare.com

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: Jay@maxwelltec.comWebsite: 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)john.Icdc.gambill@gmail.comCheck 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.