Uplift Aging

About Uplift Aging

Welcome to the Uplift Aging Podcast, a LeadingAge Texas production. Through insightful discussions, our guests help reshape aging perceptions. Join us to challenge stereotypes, explore the positives, and empower each other to embrace the journey of aging. Whether you're an older adult, caregiver, or just curious about aging, this podcast is for you. Together, let's Uplift Aging!

Publisher

LeadingAge Texas

Category

education · health & fitness · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

14 Jan 2024

Latest episode

3 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

13 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   3 Sept 2026

   S2 E05: Where Expertise Meets Mission | with Cory Macdonald

   Aging services is shaped by people serving in many different roles, including some the public may rarely see or associate with the field. Amanda sits down with healthcare attorney, Cory Macdonald, a member at Reed Claymon and longtime general counsel for LeadingAge Texas, who has spent two decades helping mission-driven aging services organizations navigate growth, change, governance, regulation, and public policy. Cory reflects on the expertise, mentorship, and relationships with not-for-pro...

2. 

   24 Apr 2026

   S2 E04: Living the Dash: Storytelling That Transforms How We See Aging | with Nathan Jones & Shelby Rayner

   Amanda is joined by Nathan Jones and Shelby Rayner of Dash Media (a LeadingAge Texas gold sponsor), a storytelling and social media agency working with aging services providers across the country. Nathan, a former college football coach, found his way into aging services after a sermon about "the dash" on a gravestone representing the life that is lived. Shelby built her career in senior living sales and went viral making videos with her grandmother, Nanny, before joining Dash. They shar...

3. 

   23 Mar 2026

   S2 E03: Rooted in Purpose, Driven by People | with Christie Hinrichs

   In this episode, Amanda sits down with Christie Hinrichs, President & CEO of Frasier (Boulder, Colorado) and LeadingAge (national) Board Chair. From her first job at 15 in a rural Nebraska nursing home to leading one of the most prominent life plan communities in the country, Christie's career is a masterclass in persistence, purpose, and servant leadership. The conversation covers the thirty years she spent growing into nearly every role at Tabitha in Nebraska, what legacy meant when it ...

4. 

   25 Feb 2026

   S2 E02: Re-envisioning Aging Successfully | Part 2 with Mark Lenhard

   In this episode, Amanda and Mark Lenhard, President & CEO of UMC, continue their discussion recorded at LeadingAge's Annual Meeting in Boston, MA (November 2025), going deeper into Mark's TEDx Talk, "Re-envisioning Aging Successfully," and what it was like to step onto that stage. They explore the power of storytelling in shaping how we understand and communicate about aging, the ripple effect of human connection, and the hope Mark carries for the future of our field and the people in it....

5. 

   24 Nov 2025

   S2 E01: Re-envisioning Aging Successfully | Part 1 with Mark Lenhard

   In this conversation, Amanda and Mark Lenhard, President & CEO of UMC, sit down at LeadingAge's Annual Meeting in Boston, MA (November 2025) to explore the themes of aging, human connection, and leadership within the context of aging services. They discuss Mark's TEDx Talk, "Re-envisioning Aging Successfully," the importance of living abundantly, the role of relationships in being human, and the challenges and opportunities that come with navigating change. The conversation emphasiz...

6. 

   21 Nov 2024

   007: On Leadership, Aging, and The Power of Books | with Darrell Jones

   Amanda chats with Darrell D. Jones, Lieutenant General, USAF (Ret), about how reading shapes effective leadership in aging services and fosters empathy and innovation.

7. 

   28 Aug 2024

   006: Aging Well | with Robin Gonzalez

   In this episode, Amanda talks with Robin Gonzalez, Director of Resident Health Services & Nurse Navigator at Westminster in Austin, Texas, about the community’s holistic, resident-centered approach to aging services. Robin shares how her social work and nursing background is beneficial in her role as she partners with residents and families to address health and wellness needs with minimal interruption to everyday community life. Robin's role at Westminster helps to reduce the stress ofte...

8. 

   25 Jul 2024

   005: Ageless Creativity | with Dr. Hayley Moseley and Brian Parman of CC Young

   In Episode 5, Amanda interviews Dr. Hayley Moseley, Director of Campus Education (https://www.linkedin.com/in/drhayley), and Brian Parman, Director of The Point & Pavilion (https://www.ccyoung.org/brian-parman/) from CC Young in Dallas, Texas, (https://www.ccyoung.org/) about how the arts inspire ageless creativity. CC Young's Spirit is Ageless Art and Writing Contest (https://www.ccyoung.org/events/2024-spirit-is-ageless-art-and-writing-contest-intake/) is a premier example of a LeadingAge Texas member celebrating the incredible talents of older adults, challenging societal perceptions, and inspiring a (renewed) appreciation for the arts. Dr. Hayley and Brian highlight the contest's history and purpose, the joy and pride it brings to participants, and the power of creative expression in connecting people and processing life experiences. Additionally, they also emphasize the importance of creating environments that spark creativity, redefining the perception of art and creativity, and challenging ageist stereotypes. The episode concludes with inspiring stories highlighting the transformative power of creativity. CLICK HERE (https://www.ccyoung.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/SIA-2024-Entry-details.pdf) to learn more about CC Young's 2024 Spirit is Ageless Art and Writing Contest! CC Young residents and the general public, age 55 and better, are invited to submit their original art and writing creations. Online registration opens Thursday, August 1! — This episode elevates the conversation with takeaways like: Creative expression, such as art and writing, can bring joy, pride, and a sense of purpose to older adults, while also fostering connections and deeper relationships. Creativity is not limited to traditional art forms; it can be found in various activities, such as gardening, cooking, and even creating a welcoming environment for others. The process of creating is often more important than the final product, as it allows individuals to explore their identity, process emotions, and find meaning. Creating environments that encourage and support creativity is essential in promoting the well-being and engagement of older adults. Age should not limit one's ability to be creative and have fun; redefining the perception of aging and embracing childlike creativity can lead to a more fulfilling and joyful life. Creative expression can be particularly beneficial for individuals with dementia, as it taps into the preserved abilities of the right side of the brain and allows for self-expression and connection. Challenging ageist stereotypes and reframing society's view of aging can help promote the value and importance of creativity in older adults. Intelligent risk-taking and trying new things, even if they seem unconventional, can lead to transformative experiences and personal growth. --- Special thanks to Dr. Hayley Moseley (https://www.linkedin.com/in/drhayley) and Brian Parman (https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-parman-0877937) & CC Young (https://www.ccyoung.org/)! This episode is made possible by LeadingAge Texas' Partners: (https://www.leadingagetexas.org/page/LeadingAgeTexasHealthPlanInc) --- Visit upliftaging.org/episodes (https://www.upliftaging.org/episodes) for show notes and more information about each episode. Join the movement as we continue to elevate the conversation on aging by visiting upliftaging.org (https://www.upliftaging.org/) and following us on our socials @upliftaging (https://www.tiktok.com/@upliftaging). --- The Uplift Aging Podcast is a production of LeadingAge Texas (https://www.leadingagetexas.org/).

9. 

   25 Jun 2024

   004: Opening Doors to Aging Services | with Gwen Fitzgerald

   Episode 4 features the second part of Amanda's conversation with Gwen Fitzgerald (https://leadingage.org/staff/gwen-fitzgerald/), Director of Public Messaging at LeadingAge (https://leadingage.org/) (national). They explore how LeadingAge’s Opening Doors to Aging Services initiative (https://openingdoors.org/) is reshaping perceptions about aging services through research and storytelling. Discover the profound impact on public trust, government support, and personal insights into navigating aging with dignity and understanding. This episode offers a compelling look at why redefining our approach to aging and aging services is more important than ever. Tune in and join the movement to uplift aging today! Episode breakdown: 0:04 Intro 0:27 Recap of Opening Doors to Aging Services 1:23 Impact of Market Research 3:44 Personal Reflections and Inclusive Language 6:06 Public Perception and Government Support 8:10 Storytelling and Positive Perceptions 11:17 Personal Impact and Family Experience 16:21 Understanding the Aging Services Continuum 18:29 Telling the Basic Story 19:38 Conclusion and Call to Action 19:58 Outro --- Special thanks to Gwen Fitzgerald (https://leadingage.org/staff/gwen-fitzgerald/) & LeadingAge (https://leadingage.org/)! This episode is made possible by LeadingAge Texas' Partners: Functional Pathways (https://fprehab.com/), LeadingAge Texas Health Plan, Inc. (https://www.leadingagetexas.org/page/LeadingAgeTexasHealthPlanInc), and Ziegler (https://www.ziegler.com/); along with LeadingAge Texas' Diamond Sponsors: Value First (https://www.value1stonline.com/) and Communities of Faith, (https://www.leadingagetexas.org/page/CommunitiesofFaithRRG) --- Visit upliftaging.org/episodes (https://www.upliftaging.org/episodes) for show notes and more information about each episode. Join the movement as we continue to elevate the conversation on aging by visiting upliftaging.org (https://www.upliftaging.org/) and following us on our socials @upliftaging (https://www.tiktok.com/@upliftaging). --- The Uplift Aging Podcast is a production of LeadingAge Texas (https://www.leadingagetexas.org/).

10. 

    22 Mar 2024

    003: Careers in Aging | with Gwen Fitzgerald and Rahim Habib

    Episode 3 features two guests to help us highlight careers in aging services for #CareersInAging Month (https://www.leadingagetexas.org/page/Campaign-CareersInAging). First, Gwen Fitzgerald (https://leadingage.org/staff/gwen-fitzgerald/), Director of Public Messaging at LeadingAge (https://leadingage.org/) (national), provides insights into the workforce landscape in aging services and touches on the Opening Doors Initiative (https://openingdoors.org/). (psst! get excited because we'll explore this more in an episode next month!). Then, Rahim Habib (https://www.claconnect.com/en/directory/h/habib-rahim), Managing Principal at CLA (https://www.claconnect.com/en)*, shares his journey into aging services not as a nurse, a social worker, or the like, but as an accountant (yep, you read that right!), offering advice and even sharing a powerful story of family and connection with care teams. This episode elevates the conversation with takeaways like: The episode showcases unconventional careers in aging services. Gwen Fitzgerald offers insights into the workforce landscape and the Opening Doors Initiative. Rahim Habib shares his personal journey and provides advice. The discussion highlights the power of language and includes uplifting moments. Takeaways Aging services offer varied career paths beyond traditional roles. Employee investment and growth opportunities are vital. Language can counter ageism. Personal experiences, like Rahim's, underscore healthcare's importance in aging. --- Episode breakdown: 00:00 | Intro 01:38 | Context of Careers in Aging 06:32 | Power of Language 07:19 | Benefits of Working in Aging Services 09:08 | Investing in Employees 13:40 | Opening Doors Initiative 16:42 | Dynamic Professional Growth Opportunities 17:57 | Aging Gratefuly 21:44 | From Intern to Managing Principal at CLA* 26:00 | Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life.' 27:04 | Passion. Purpose. Possibilities. 30:13 | Uplift Aging: Unfiltered (grab your tissues!) 35:01 | Care Teams: Experts. Skilled. Knowledgable. 36:38 | Thank you, thank you! 37:18 | Outro --- Special thanks to Gwen Fitzgerald (https://leadingage.org/staff/gwen-fitzgerald/) & LeadingAge (https://leadingage.org/) and Rahim Habib (https://www.claconnect.com/en/directory/h/habib-rahim) & CLA (https://www.claconnect.com/en)*. *Disclaimer: The information herein has been provided by CliftonLarsonAllen LLP for general information purposes only. This episode is made possible by LeadingAge Texas' Partners: Functional Pathways (https://fprehab.com/), LeadingAge Texas Health Plan, Inc. (https://www.leadingagetexas.org/page/LeadingAgeTexasHealthPlanInc), and Ziegler (https://www.ziegler.com/); along with LeadingAge Texas' Diamond Sponsor: Value First (https://www.value1stonline.com/), and Platinum Sponsor: Communities of Faith, RRG (https://www.leadingagetexas.org/page/CommunitiesofFaithRRG). --- Visit upliftaging.org/episodes (https://www.upliftaging.org/episodes) for show notes and more information about each episode. Join the movement as we continue to elevate the conversation on aging by visiting upliftaging.org (https://www.upliftaging.org/) and following us on our socials @upliftaging (https://www.tiktok.com/@upliftaging). --- The Uplift Aging Podcast is a production of LeadingAge Texas (https://www.leadingagetexas.org/).

11. 

    7 Feb 2024

    002: Care. Love. Connection. | Part 2 with Nicole Gann

    In Episode 2, host Amanda Wiedenfeld continues her interview with Nicole Gann (https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-gann-ba62638), MS, SPHR, President & CEO of Juliette Fowler Communities (https://fowlercommunities.org/). They discuss the power of words and the importance of continuous personal growth. Nicole shares her unexpected journey into aging services, and the two discuss changing perceptions of aging services and the benefits of living in a community. Nicole shares a powerful moment that has shifted her perspective on aging and emphasizes the value of continual learning and growth. This episode elevates the conversation with takeaways like: Words have power and can be used to uplift or harm ourselves and others. Continuous personal growth is essential for personal and professional development. The path to a fulfilling career can be unexpected and may lead to unexpected opportunities. Living in a community can provide connection and purpose and combat isolation and loneliness. Aging brings new experiences and perspectives, and embracing them can lead to personal growth and empathy. --- Episode breakdown: 00:30 | Welcome back and what to expect 01:00 | #careislove campaign 02:05 | Part 2 of Interview with Nicole Gann 03:06 | The power of words 04:23 | Revisiting impactful works 05:11 | From manufacturing to aging services 08:53 | An unexpected path 10:15 | This is different 14:08 | Changing perceptions of aging services 18:46 | Uplift Aging: Unfiltered 25:19 | Wrap up 26:20 | Outro --- Special thanks to Nicole Gann (https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-gann-ba62638), MS, SPHR, and Juliette Fowler Communities in Dallas, Texas (https://fowlercommunities.org/)! This episode is made possible by LeadingAge Texas' Partners: Functional Pathways (https://fprehab.com/), LeadingAge Texas Health Plan, Inc. (https://www.leadingagetexas.org/page/LeadingAgeTexasHealthPlanInc), and Ziegler (https://www.ziegler.com/); along with LeadingAge Texas' Diamond Sponsor: Value First (https://www.value1stonline.com/), and Platinum Sponsor: Communities of Faith, RRG (https://www.leadingagetexas.org/page/CommunitiesofFaithRRG). --- Visit upliftaging.org/episodes (https://www.upliftaging.org/episodes) for show notes and more information about each episode. Join the movement as we continue to elevate the conversation on aging by visiting upliftaging.org (https://www.upliftaging.org/) and following us on our socials @upliftaging (https://www.tiktok.com/@upliftaging). --- The Uplift Aging Podcast is a production of LeadingAge Texas (https://www.leadingagetexas.org/).

12. 

    17 Jan 2024

    001: What is aging, anyway? | Part 1 with Nicole Gann

    Welcome to the Uplift Aging Podcast's debut episode! Host Amanda Wiedenfeld and special guest Nicole Gann (https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-gann-ba62638), MS, SPHR, President & CEO of Juliette Fowler Communities (https://fowlercommunities.org/), embark on a powerful conversation about the profound journey of aging. This episode elevates the conversation on aging by diving into the question, "What is aging, anyway?" and the duo chat about: Aging is more than "just getting old"; it is a testament to a life lived and a journey of growth and wisdom. It is time to shift the narrative from anti-aging to ageless, celebrating the experiences and lessons that come with age. Examining and challenging our own belief systems about aging can help us create a more positive and inclusive perspective. Aging is a shared experience that connects people of all ages, and we can learn from and support each other throughout the journey. Enjoy, and don't miss Part 2 of this conversation (coming soon in Episode 2)! --- Episode breakdown: 00:00 | Defining aging 02:23 | Introducing Nicole Gann 03:14 | Starting a movement 05:05 | Aging as a shared experience 08:18 | Challenging the anti-aging narrative 09:17 | Examining belief systems 13:33 | Celebrating aging 14:42 | Curating a positive perspective 17:26 | The importance of knowing yourself and your values 22:30 | Embracing the joys and challenges of aging 28:36 | Life is 50-50 28:51 | Part 2 of This Interview is Coming Soon --- Special thanks to Nicole Gann (https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-gann-ba62638), MS, SPHR and Juliette Fowler Communities in Dallas, Texas (https://fowlercommunities.org/)! This episode is made possible by LeadingAge Texas' Partners: Functional Pathways (https://fprehab.com/), LeadingAge Texas Health Plan, Inc. (https://www.leadingagetexas.org/page/LeadingAgeTexasHealthPlanInc), and Ziegler (https://www.ziegler.com/); along with LeadingAge Texas' Platinum Sponsors: Communities of Faith, RRG (https://www.leadingagetexas.org/page/CommunitiesofFaithRRG) and Value First (https://www.value1stonline.com/). --- Visit upliftaging.org/episodes (https://www.upliftaging.org/episodes) for show notes and more information about each episode. Join the movement as we continue to elevate the conversation on aging by visiting upliftaging.org (https://www.upliftaging.org/) and following us on our socials @upliftaging (https://www.tiktok.com/@upliftaging). --- The Uplift Aging Podcast is a production of LeadingAge Texas (https://www.leadingagetexas.org/).

13. 

    14 Jan 2024

    000: Welcome to Uplift Aging (Trailer)

    Get ready to Uplift Aging! Our first episode drops January 17 - subscribe now. --- Visit upliftaging.org/episodes (https://www.upliftaging.org/episodes) for show notes and more information about each episode. Join the movement as we continue to elevate the conversation on aging by visiting upliftaging.org (https://www.upliftaging.org/) and following us on our socials @upliftaging (https://www.tiktok.com/@upliftaging). --- The Uplift Aging Podcast is a production of LeadingAge Texas (https://www.leadingagetexas.org/).

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

3 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

4 ratings

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Guest appearances

Does not typically book guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.