Believe.Behave.Become - A Pennant Group Podcast

Executive Director of Santa Maria Terrace, Joanna Casillas has a leadership journey that is a remarkable example of what can happen when curiosity meets commitment. Starting in housekeeping, she worked her way through multiple roles across the community, driven by a simple mindset:“What can I do to help?” Rather than waiting for opportunities, Joanna created them by stepping forward, learning every aspect of the business, and continuously pushing herself to grow. Today, she leads with that same philosophy, helping others discover their own potential. From caregivers to department leaders, many of her team members have followed growth paths similar to hers. Joanna emphasizes accountability, shared goals, and a culture of “no excuses,” while encouraging team members to think beyond their current role and keep striving for more. One of the most powerful moments of the conversation came when Joanna reflected on failure. She believes it’s okay to fall because the comeback is where true growth happens. Her message is simple but impactful: leadership isn’t about titles or perfection, it’s about continuing to climb, helping others along the way, and leaving things better than you found them.

In this episode, we sit down with Christina Darrah, CMO and Business Development Portfolio Leader, to explore what it means to lead with vision and influence. Christina shares how great leadership starts by recognizing the passions and strengths of others, empowering people to grow, and creating opportunities for them to make a meaningful impact.  Christina reflects on a pivotal leadership lesson early in her career that transformed how she viewed herself and the people around her: no one is “just” their job title. That perspective continues to shape her approach to leadership today, helping others see their potential and inspiring them to achieve more than they thought possible. She also shares insights on leading without direct authority, building trust across teams, and creating alignment through consistent communication and shared purpose.Whether you're a new leader, a business development professional, or simply looking to grow your influence, this conversation offers valuable lessons on empowering others, driving strategy through relationships, and completing the "third leg of the stool" that helps organizations reach their full potential.

In this episode of the Believe. Behave. Become. podcast, Elliot and Rich sit down with Horizon Central CEO Nick Pew to explore the story behind the success. Nick reflects on his unexpected journey from newly graduated nurse to healthcare executive, sharing how a job he initially took out of necessity became a calling he never anticipated. The conversation goes beyond leadership highlights and into the challenges that forged Nick's growth. From navigating organizational expansion and splitting a flagship agency, to receiving difficult but transformative feedback from trusted partners, Nick discusses the moments that changed the way he leads. Most importantly, Nick shares a powerful message for leaders at every stage of their journey: no one ascends alone. Success is built by investing in people, assembling the right team, and trusting others to grow alongside you. Whether you're a new leader finding your footing or a seasoned operator striving for your next summit, this episode is a compelling reminder that leadership is less about personal achievement and more about multiplying your impact through others.

Roxy Romero joins us in this episode of the Believe. Behave. Become. podcast to share the inspiring story behind Capitol Hill Senior Living's turnaround. From rebuilding trust in struggling healthcare communities to helping drive growth at Capitol Hill, Roxy shows how authenticity, grit, and genuine relationships became her secret weapons. This episode is packed with leadership lessons on culture, teamwork, and doing the right thing for residents and families. Roxy highlights the power of owning your role, celebrating your team, and creating a culture where people feel valued, trusted, and inspired to succeed together. She also shares how strong partnerships and a resident-first mindset helped transform a challenged community into one built on trust and momentum. Whether you're leading a team, navigating change, or looking to create a lasting impact, Roxy's message will leave you motivated to take ownership, lift others, and keep climbing.

Sarah Crowder’s leadership journey is a masterclass in growth, courage, and authenticity. From speech therapist to Director of Clinical Services, Sarah shares what it was like stepping into the roles of highly respected leaders and learning that success doesn’t come from being just like them, it comes from being the best version of yourself. In this episode, Sarah opens up about leading through fear, embracing feedback, and navigating the challenges of moving from peer to leader. She discusses why curiosity has been one of her greatest leadership strengths, how vulnerability builds trust, and why the best leaders never stop learning. You’ll also hear powerful insights on building team buy-in, creating a culture of continuous growth, and helping people connect to a larger vision. Sarah’s message is simple but impactful: stay curious, stay coachable, and keep climbing, because the real growth happens along the journey.