Elevate Eldercare

This week marks our first of four encore episodes this month – the most popular of 2025. As we close out the year, we are happy to present @AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan's interview with Village to VillageNetwork national director Barbara Sullivan. The Village to Village Network works to create durable webs of support in communities all across the country, organizing volunteers to provide the kind of nuts-and-bolts assistance — transportation, home maintenance, tech support — and social experiences that make thriving in place possible. Sullivan joins Ryan to discuss her journey through eldercare, as well as her vision for making these intentional villages the norm in neighborhoods everywhere. Learn more about the Village to Village Network: https://www.vtvnetwork.org/

This week on Elevate Eldercare is an encore episode with former U.S. Surgeon General and current AgingIN Board Member, Joycelyn Elders, MD. In honor of the Thanksgiving holiday, we thought this very special discussion, in which AgingIN's Susan Ryan and the late Alex Spanko (who served as director of communications from 2021 to 2024) engage Dr. Elders in a discussion about her trailblazing life and career. An added motivation for the replay of this episode is that the New York Academy of Medicine recently presented Dr. Elders with the Alma Dea Morani Renaissance Woman Award. With humor and refreshing honesty, Dr. Elders shares her perspectives on racism, sexism, and all the other "isms" that continue to shape the way health care is provided in the United States. As an elder herself, she also provides insights into what she might want out of the U.S. eldercare landscape and how supports and services might fit into her still-busy life as a widely sought-after and admired public health expert. Dr. Elders is renowned for breaking barriers and sparking essential conversations throughout her remarkable career. Appointed in 1993 as the 15th Surgeon General of the United States, the first African American and only the second woman to hold that office, Dr. Elders brought unprecedented visibility to issues ranging from adolescent health and reproductive rights to substance use prevention and health education. TIME magazine named her "1994 Woman of the Year" and "One of the 100 Most Influential Women of the 20th Century."

In this week's episode of Elevate Eldercare, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan welcomes Bob Chapman, CEO of Barry-Wehmiller and a global ambassador for human-centered leadership.  Chapman shares how he transformed a struggling $20 million family business into a thriving $4 billion enterprise by embracing a simple but radical idea: leaders have a profound responsibility for the lives entrusted to them. Drawing on decades of experience across industries—including healthcare, government, education, and business—Ryan and Chapman dive into why empathy, listening, and recognition are not "soft skills," but essential human skills that build stronger organizations and healthier communities. Chapman walks listeners through the pivotal moments that transformed his views of business and leadership, including making business fun, how business shapes lives, and the fact that everyone is someone's precious child.  Learn about the Truly Human Leadership Institute here: https://www.ccoleadership.com/services/develop/leadership-development-training/truly-human-leader-program

In this episode, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan welcomes Steve Nygren, visionary founder of Serenbe, a pioneering biophilic community outside Atlanta that blends sustainability, wellness, and human connection. Beginning in 1991 as an impromptu farm purchase, Serenbe has become a decades-long experiment in how people can live harmoniously with nature—and with each other. Steve shares his story, which includes a transition from a successful hospitality career to a life dedicated to community building and land preservation. Confronted by the threat of urban sprawl, he turned his private sanctuary into a model for regenerative development. Serenbe's design—complete with centralized mailboxes, shared gardens, trampolines, and a wellness hub housing 27 health providers—embodies the idea that thoughtful design can nurture both people and the planet.  Listeners will hear how biophilic design and new urbanism come together at Serenbe to create a thriving "agrihood" that supports intergenerational living. Nygren advocates for environments that foster mobility, creativity, and vitality at every age. Steve and Susan also discuss Serenbe's intergenerational housing models and its innovative wellness hub, which offers integrated medical and holistic care—including what may be the nation's only chemical-free pharmacy. As Serenbe evolves into a think tank for arts, agriculture, and health, Steve invites listeners to reimagine their own neighborhoods and communities.  Find his book, Starting Your Own Backyard: Radical Common Sense Reimagining, here: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Start-in-Your-Own-Backyard/Nygren-Steve/9781637747445 Learn more about Serenbe here: https://www.serenbe.com AgingIN Website

In the realm of storytelling in the senior living field, few come close to what Jack York has done in his decades-long career as a tech entrepreneur and now professional storyteller. In this episode of Elevate Eldercare, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan welcomes Jack, founder of iN2L and co-founder of Talegate, whose journey from Silicon Valley to the world of eldercare has inspired an industry-wide shift toward recognizing the power of stories and how they foster meaning and connection. In addition to reflecting on his early struggle as a tech founder, Jack shares the pivotal experiences that shaped his life's work. Through his latest venture, Talegate, Jack describes the Vintage Voices 100 Tour, an initiative that has culminated in recorded interviews of nearly 150 centenarians. Jack also discusses the profound intergenerational potential of this work—how connecting high school students with elders to record and share their stories can deepen empathy, preserve history, and change how society views aging. More about Talegate here: https://talegate4joy.com/

In this inspiring episode, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan sits down with Erin Hart and Peter Murphy Lewis, who share how they're transforming perceptions of long-term care through storytelling and authentic human connection. Erin, who has spent 13 years in long-term care and now works with the Ohio Health Care Association, describes how growing up across the street from her grandmother shaped her lifelong dedication to caregiving. Her personal story and professional mission intersect in powerful ways—advocating for caregivers and restoring pride in their work. Peter, whose childhood experiences with his grandparents' caregivers left a lasting impression, brings his background in media and storytelling to the eldercare space. His documentary series, "People Worth Caring About," captures genuine caregiver stories that highlight the dignity, skill, and heart within the profession. In addition to discussing the power of storytelling to move hearts and reshape cultural narratives about aging and care, Erin and Peter highlight how authentic stories can do what data alone cannot—inspire empathy and drive change. Learn more about the docuseries here: https://peopleworthcaringabout.com/home. Please visit our website at : https://aginginnovation.org Thanks to Amba our sponsor: https://www.ambahealth.com/

In this episode, Katie Smith Sloan, president and CEO of LeadingAge, sits down with AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan to discuss Katie's remarkable journey from studying political science to shaping the future of eldercare. Drawing on her early work in the U.S. Senate and at AARP, Katie reflects on how policy and program must work hand in hand to create meaningful, systemic change for older adults. Now leading an association of 5,500 mission-driven organizations, Katie shares how LeadingAge champions innovation, collaboration, and advocacy across the continuum of care—from affordable housing to aging in place. She also tackles the challenges of today's polarized political climate, the impact of government gridlock on providers, and the growing need for public-private partnerships to ensure a sustainable future for aging services. Katie believes that progress depends not only on policy but on people and stories—keeping human impact at the center of every decision. She calls on leaders to think boldly, share ideas openly, and recruit visionary minds to aging services boards. Listeners will also get a preview of the upcoming LeadingAge Annual Conference in Boston, featuring keynotes by José Andrés and David Brooks, and opportunities for global learning through the Global Aging Network. More about LeadingAge here:  LeadingAge.org AgingIN Website  Please visit or sponsor - Amba 

In this week's episode, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan sits down with Nancy Zionts, chief program officer at the Jewish Healthcare Foundation (JHF). In a wide-ranging discussion, the two talk about the importance of valuing older adults, human-centered technology, and intergenerational connections. Zionts shares insights from a study tour to Japan, where she observed innovative practices like virtual reality training for dementia care and stand-up CT machines.  Ryan and Zionts discuss integrating experiences with older adults into the curriculum for health professional students, such as having them regularly spend time with elders in the community. Zionts suggests that reimagining of aging and care by connecting generations, humanizing technology, and reshaping healthcare to honor the dignity, wisdom, and individuality of older adults. She asserts that systems of care, learning, and innovationmust see elders not as problems to solve, but as people to learn from and partners in progress. Zionts' call to action envisions building a future where aging is valued, technology serves humanity, and every generation learns from and cares for one another. More about JHF here: https://jhf.org

In this episode, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan sits down with Tamar Krebs, founder of VideriAustralia (formerly Group Homes Australia), to explore her remarkable journey transforming aged care through person-centered, household living. From her early experiences in nursing homes to building 26 small-scale homes across Australia, Tamar shares how her vision redefines what it means to age with dignity. Tamar and Susan discuss the household model, where six to 10 residents live in real homes supported by trained teams. Tamar explains how thoughtful design—like central kitchens and adaptable spaces—creates meaningful daily life, while technology tools reduce care fatigue without compromising autonomy. The two also discuss the groundbreaking Rementia program, a dementia retreat designed to empower both individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. Backed by a three-year government grant, the program covers practical and personal aspects of life—food, exercise, sleep, intimacy, and financial planning—helping families reframe what's possible. Tamar urges listeners to challenge the status quo and make small, intentional changes that improve the lives of older adults. Her story is a powerful reminder that care is designed around people—not institutions—it creates communities where everyone can be seen, valued, and supported.

In this week's episode, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan sits down with Kristen Parsons, who shares her inspiring journey from pediatrics to eldercare and why she is passionate about helping older adults maintain their independence. Now leading operations at Tiffany Village and Kenny's Pond in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, Kristen highlights how their approach to care and the use of technology are transforming outcomes for residents and staff alike. Susan and Kristen discuss the impact of AMBA, a data-driven platform that provides insights on sleep, activity, and medication management, and how its implementation led to higher occupancy, reduced falls, improved compliance, and greater staff satisfaction.  Finally, Kristen underscores the importance of visionary leadership, staff collaboration, and continuous improvement to create better aging experiences. Visit our website – https://aginginnovation.org

In this week's episode, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan welcomes Michael Giuliano, chief operating officer at Planetree International, who shares his inspiring journey from growing up in a family of healthcare professionals to leading a global nonprofit dedicated to advancing person-centered care. Michael reflects on how his father's medical practice shaped his belief in the power of relationships in healthcare and explains how Planetree's work—from its origins to its internationally recognized certification program—has transformed outcomes for patients, families, and staff alike. Susan and Michale discuss the proven benefits of person-centered care, including lower hospital readmission rates, higher patient satisfaction, and stronger staff engagement. Their conversation also touches on the importance of cultural transformation in healthcare organizations and practical ways leaders can foster environments where patients and staff truly feel seen, heard, and valued. The Planetree Global Person-Centered Care Forum will take place in Baltimore, Oct. 12–15, 2025. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with leaders and innovators from around the world. Find out more here: https://www.planetree.org/. Visit our website at https://aginginnovation.org/

In this episode of Elevate Eldercare, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan sits down with Anne Tumlinson, founder and CEO of ATI Advisory, and creator of Daughterhood, to explore her remarkable journey from environmental activism to national healthcare leadership. Anne shares how her early work with U.S. Rep. John Lewis and Sen. Harris Wofford inspired her pivot toward aging and healthcare policy. Her time at the Office of Management and Budget gave her a front-row seat to the complexities of Medicare and Medicaid, particularly in long-term care—a focus that would shape the rest of her career. Drawing on her experience, Anne reflects on launching ATI Advisory, where she leads efforts to improve care for complex populations through data-driven insights, value-based care models, and innovative solutions like AI. Their conversation also highlights Anne's deeply personal initiative, Daughterhood, a grassroots movement to support family caregivers. Through community-building efforts, she is helping reframe caregiving as a collective responsibility rather than a solitary burden. Together, Anne and Susan discuss a vision for the future of eldercare that is seamlessly integrated into community services, much like education for children. Anne challenges us to rethink how society supports aging, leverage AI to increase efficiency, and—most importantly—preserve the human touch at the heart of care. Learn more about Daughterhood here: https://daughterhood.org/ Visit our website here: www.aginginnovation.org

In this week's episode, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan welcomes back Rob Liebreich, president and CEO of Goodwin Living, for a wide-ranging conversation on leadership, innovation, and the future of eldercare. Rob reflects on his 23-year journey in aging services, inspired by his grandmother's experience, and shares how that personal connection continues to guide his mission. He recounts the challenges of leading Goodwin Living through COVID-19 and highlights the strength of a workforce in which 40 percent are immigrants. Together, Susan and Rob explore the growth of Goodwin Living, serving 4,000 older adults and supporting 1,500 team members; expansion projects; innovative initiatives, such as the Stronger Memory program; the role of the Goodwin Living Foundation; and the urgent need for immigration reform to address the growing demand for eldercare workers. Rob lays out his vision: expanding services and housing, strengthening brain health and anti-loneliness initiatives, and growing the foundation to better serve older adults and caregivers alike. Explore the Goodwin Foundation here: https://goodwinlivingfoundation.org/

In this episode, Charles DeVilmorin, co-founder of Linked Senior and now part of LifeLoop, joins AgingINSM CEO Susan Ryan to share his journey into eldercare and the passion that drives his work in resident engagement. Charles began his path with a thesis on nursing home environments that revealed the devastating effects of isolation and boredom on residents. That eye-opening experience led him to create LinkedSenior, a technology platform designed to foster connection, purpose, and dignity for older adults. He discusses the challenges of segregation in eldercare, the critical importance of social connection, and the entrepreneurial journey that led to the merger of LinkedSenior with LifeLoop—bringing together the strengths of two leading platforms to create a comprehensive solution for resident engagement. Susan and Charles explore the transformative power of person-centered care, the dangers of chemical restraints, and the vital role of activity professionals in bringing meaning and joy to residents' lives. He also reflects on the impact of the #ActivitiesStrong initiative, which offered free education and support to thousands of activity directors during a time of great need. Looking ahead, Charles shares his vision for a future where senior living communities are affordable, desirable, and deeply human-centered—places where freedom, connection, and dignity are the standard, not the exception. Explore the #ActivitiesStrong platform here: https://lifeloop.com/activities-strong

In today's episode of Elevate Eldercare, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan welcomes Deke Cateau, CEO of A.G. Rhodes, a nonprofit nursing and rehabilitation organization in metro Atlanta. Born and raised in Trinidad and Tobago, Deke's path to long-term care was sparked by his wife's encouragement and is sustained by his deep belief in the power of family and person-centered care. Deke offers a behind-the-scenes look at A.G. Rhodes, which serves 1,300 eldersannually. Listeners will learn about A.G. Rhodes' innovative programs, including its small house model—designed to create intimate, elder-centered living environments—and its intergenerational initiatives that bring older and younger generations together in meaningful ways. Deke also highlights AG Rhodes' successful staffing agency, which ensures consistent, quality care, and ongoing research collaborations with Georgia State and Georgia Tech exploring the impact of music and horticultural therapy on resident wellbeing. The conversation digs into pressing policy and funding issues, including the devastating impact of Medicaid cuts on long-term care providers. Deke urges policymakers to reimagine Medicaid reimbursement structures, tying payments to quality outcomes rather than physical facilities. Looking ahead, Deke envisions eldercare that is fully integrated into the fabric of communities—much like childcare or schools—where intergenerational programs, dementia-friendly communities, and the longevity economy take center stage. His message is both practical and inspiring: we must all prepare for our own futures by engaging in advocacy, supporting innovation, and reframing how society values and supports older adults. Learn more about A.G. Rhodes here: https://www.agrhodes.org

In today's episode, AgingIN CEO Susan Ryan sits down with Ben Veghte, director the WA Cares Fund, a state-run entity that provides working Washingtonians a way to earn access to long-term care benefits that will be available to eligible individuals. when they need them. Ben shares his inspiring journey from studying capitalism and social justice in Germany to directing the Fund. He and Susan explore why integrating housing, healthcare, and community is essential for aging with dignity, and he highlights the influence of the Dutch model—which prioritizes person-centered care, affordable housing, and strong community supports. As a first-of-its-kind program, the WA Cares Fund will provide $36,500 toward long-term care needs, offering a critical resource for families navigating aging and caregiving. Veghte emphasizes the need for multi-sector planning and grassroots involvement to meet the challenges of the coming age wave. His message is clear: preparing for the future of long-term care requires policy innovation, community engagement, and collective advocacy. More information about the Fund here: https://wacaresfund.wa.gov  

This podcast's producer, Center or Innovation, now has a new name: AgingIN. With a mission to be the catalyst for person-directed living and empowered cultures in the community of one's choice, AgingIN's rebrand and new strategic direction was ushered in through a partnership with 3rd3rd Marketing, a marketing firm that specializes in senior living. In today's episode, Susan Ryan sits down with Cynthia Thurlow, founder of 3rd3rd. Inspired by personal experiences with her grandmother and father, Cynthia's journey into eldercare is deeply rooted in empathy, innovation, and a passion for improving lives. Cynthia shares how 3rd3rd blends creative marketing strategies with radical transparency to help senior living organizations stand out and stay true to their mission. She takes us behind the scenes of the agency's recent collaboration with AgingIN, a rebrand that champions person-directed living, fresh insights, and consulting designed to elevate care.  From the origin of its name to the power of custom photography and explainer videos, Cynthia examines how marketing can drive real change in eldercare. She also paints a hopeful vision for the future—one of intergenerational communities, a focus on healthspan over lifespan, and senior living investments that directly improve the lives of older adults and care teams. More information about 3rd3rd here: https://3rd3rd.com

Host Susan Ryan sits down with visionary eldercare advocate and Pioneer Network co-founder Barry Barkan for a profound conversation on reimagining aging and the transformative potential of community, spirit, and consciousness. Barkan shares his journey from founding the Live Oak Institute to helping launch the Pioneer Network, driven by a belief that aging is not a problem to solve but a gift to elevate. He recounts his efforts to create a regenerative, inclusive community at the Jewish Home in Oakland—an idea that initially faced rejection but ultimately gained momentum and global influence, including a successful expansion into 15 homes in Israel. But this conversation goes beyond history. Barry offers a deeply reflective vision for a paradigm shift—a movement from a worldview rooted in domination and separation to one grounded in interconnection, kindness, and sufficiency. He challenges listeners to see humanity as one living being, where every person and every creature matters. Together, Susan and Barry explore the concept of "Elder Awesome" and moving beyond traditional notions of "elder care." They also discuss the "Tao of Blessings"—a personal path to leave grace in every encounter Barkan offers his vision for communities and care environments rooted in equity, dignity, and accountability.

In this insightful conversation, host Susan Ryan sits down with senior living innovator Andy Carle, consultant and founder of UniversityRetirementCommunities.com. Andy shares his personal journey into eldercare and the bold moves he's made to elevate the field, from founding a 70-community company to creating the first university-level curriculum for senior living executives. Andy also dives into the concept of "nana technology"—his term for tech that supports aging with dignity—and explores the rise of University Retirement Communities (URCs), a model that merges lifelong learning with purposeful aging. He outlines the five essential criteria for certification and shares how URCs foster mutual benefit for both older adults and students through intergenerational connection, shared resources, and collaborative programming. This episode takes a deep dive into what's possible when we stop settling for outdated models and start designing for a future that values older adults as engaged, capable, and vital members of society. More information about URCs here: universityretirementcommunities.com

In this inspiring conversation, architect and eldercare innovator Jane Rohde shares her lifelong passion for community development and the power of person-centered care. From her early days with Erickson Retirement Communities to founding JSR Associates and the nonprofit Live Together, Jane has remained committed to transforming aging services through relationship-based, sustainable models. Susan Ryan sits down with Jane to discuss her experience working with The Green House Project and designing care systems in the U.S. and China. She also shares her vision for the future—leveraging AI and grassroots partnerships to create scalable, intergenerational communities that support vulnerable populations, particularly in rural areas. Visit Live Together to learn more or explore ways to get involved: https://www.livetogethercommunity.org/