Senior living emergency preparedness is a topic that always needs a refresher, and we are avoiding the “panic” with expert Kristie Schutt in this week’s episode. Kristie reveals the five critical keys to creating bulletproof emergency preparedness plans for foodservice operations. This essential episode covers comprehensive risk assessment strategies spanning natural disasters, cyber attacks, and human threats. Learn proven techniques for developing emergency policies, staff communication protocols, and Christie shares her insider knowledge on managing power outages, downtime procedures, and maintaining food safety during crisis situations. Perfect for senior living operators, foodservice directors, healthcare administrators, and emergency management professionals seeking actionable strategies to protect residents and maintain operations during hurricanes, floods, cyber attacks, and other emergencies.
Discover how AdvantageTrust supports communities with emergency equipment, shelf-stable foods, refrigerated trucks, and specialized vendor networks to ensure operational continuity when disaster strikes by visiting their website at http://www.advantagetrustgp.com/ or email the team at foodinfo@healthtrustpg.com
#TFT437 #EmergencyPreparedness #SeniorLiving #HurricaneSeason #FoodService #DisasterPlanning #HealthcareSafety #CrisisManagement #SeniorCare #EmergencyManagement #FoodSafety #AssistedLiving #OperationalResilience #CyberSecurity #WeatherEmergency #HospitalityMatters
Tune in to discover how community-first leadership transforms organizational culture and drives measurable business results in this episode of Tips from Trestle! Aaron interviews Chris Catania, community leadership expert and author, who reveals how his proven frameworks can help scale authentic connections across multi-location senior living operations. Learn how Fortune 500 companies leverage community building to increase employee retention, reduce social isolation among seniors, and generate millions in cost savings through strategic relationship management. Listen to Chris’s actionable strategies for measuring community ROI, breaking down departmental silos, and implementing both digital and in-person community programs that enhance the resident experience while strengthening bottom-line performance. This conversation proves why soft skills are essential business strategies for modern senior living operators managing multiple communities.
Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:
#TFT435 #SeniorLiving #TipsFromTrestle #SeniorLiving #CommunityBuilding #LeadershipDevelopment #SeniorCare #AssistedLiving #HealthcareLeadership #ResidentEngagement #CommunityFirst #EmployeeRetention #SocialIsolation #SeniorWellness #HospitalityIndustry #OrganizationalCulture #BusinessStrategy #AuthenticLeadership
As we grow and develop, we know we have to crawl be fore we can run. And on this episode of Tips form Trestle, we sprint into the details on how to successfully implement senior living technology with Jenn Kent's proven "crawl, walk, run" methodology. As Director of Project Management at Harmony Senior Services, Jen transformed 45 communities from manual paper processes to seamless digital dining operations using eMenuChoice point-of-sale systems. Learn her seven essential steps for technology implementation success, including creating custom playbooks, role-based training approaches, and cross-departmental accountability strategies. This episode reveals practical insights for senior living operators navigating digital transformation, featuring actionable advice on hardware preparation, staff training methodologies, and ongoing system support to drive resident satisfaction and operational efficiency.
Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:
#TFT434 #SeniorLiving #TipsFromTrestle #TechImplementation #DigitalTransformation #SeniorCare #AssistedLiving #HealthTech #SeniorDining #HospitalityTech #ProjectManagement #ElderCare #SeniorLivingTech #AgeTech #CareInnovation #HealthyAging #ResidentExperience
On this bright episode of Tips from Trestle, learn how United Group of Companies illuminates active adult living through their trademarked SUN® Program. Join Aaron as he explores resident engagement with VP of Sales Francine Bass and VP of Lifestyle Joanne DiMarco, who reveal how thoughtful programming transforms communities from apartments into thriving lifestyle destinations.
Learn how the SUN® Program combats social isolation among seniors, turning health risks into opportunities for connection and joy. The dynamic duo shares how their 7 Core Lifestyle Concepts and unreasonable hospitality principles create monthly activities that residents actually want to participate in—generating remarkable retention rates and extended stays that outshine industry standards.
From resident-led cooking adventures to staff-supported educational journeys, see how personalized programming creates authentic community connections that money can't buy. Plus, uncover proven tactics for leveraging social media storytelling, video marketing, and referral-generating events that attract prospects in the expanding baby boomer market. This episode proves that when you sell lifestyle instead of square footage, everyone wins.
Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:
#TFT433 #SeniorLiving #ActiveAdultLiving #SeniorLifestyle #BabyBoomers #WellnessCommunity #SocialIsolation #55PlusCommunity #SeniorWellness #ActiveLiving #CommunityConnection #LifestyleProgramming #RetirementGoals #HealthyAging #SeniorLivingInnovation #ResidentEngagement #MindfulSeniorLiving
Ready to explore the OG culinary hack for your kitchen? Discover how speed scratch cooking transforms senior living food service operations with culinary expert Cody Middleton from Ben E Keith Foods. This essential Tips from Trestle episode explores practical solutions for labor challenges, cost management, and food safety in senior living kitchens. Learn why speed scratch techniques help small communities deliver restaurant-quality meals while maintaining tight budgets and limited staff. Middleton shares proven strategies for implementing ready-to-use products, reducing food waste, improving resident satisfaction, and enhancing staff quality of life. Perfect for senior living executives, food service directors, and culinary professionals seeking actionable insights on modern kitchen operations, menu planning, and operational efficiency. Host Aaron Fish guides this deep-dive conversation covering everything from financial analysis to staff training, making complex culinary concepts accessible for non-food service managers in today's challenging senior care environment.
Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:
Connect with Cody: pcmiddleton@benekeith.com
#TFT432 #SeniorLiving #ChefDriven #FoodService #CulinaryExcellence #SeniorCare #AssistedLiving #KitchenEffiency #MenuPlanning #FoodSafety #Healthcare #ElderCare #Hospitality #CommunityDining #LongTermCare #AgingInPlace #SeniorWellness
Discover how exceptional hospitality transforms senior living dining in this essential Tips from Trestle episode. Host Aaron Fish interviews Shawn McGregor, Senior Executive Chef at Healthcare Services Group, who oversees culinary operations for over 2,000 kitchens nationwide. Learn proven strategies for staff training, showtime cooking engagement, and managing dietary restrictions in senior care. Sean shares powerful resident connection stories and reveals why getting chefs out of the kitchen creates unforgettable experiences for prospects and residents alike. This episode provides actionable insights for senior living operators, executive chefs, and marketing directors on leveraging food service as a powerful sales and engagement tool. Topics include kitchen tours, resident satisfaction surveys, clinically-driven menus, and creating authentic hospitality moments that drive occupancy and retention in today's competitive senior living market.
Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:
#TFT431 #SeniorLiving #ChefDriven #HospitalityExperience #SeniorCare #FoodServiceInnovation #CulinaryWellness #ResidentEngagement #AssistedLiving #HealthyAging #CommunityDining #ElderCare #SeniorLivingMarketing #ShowtimeCooking #DiningExperience #SeniorNutrition
We're bringing back this fan-favorite episode of Tips from Trestle as we're thrilled to announce our exciting new partnership with Zinnia TV! Join Aaron as he sits down with Allyson Schrier, co-founder and president of Zinnia TV, in this transformative conversation about revolutionizing dementia care through innovative streaming technology.
Discover how Allyson's personal caregiving journey sparked the creation of research-driven, plot-free video content that's changing lives in senior living communities worldwide. Learn about Zinnia's proven ability to reduce agitation, foster meaningful reminiscence, and empower both professional and family caregivers with powerful connection tools.
This re-release comes at the perfect time as Trestle Hospitality Concepts partners with Zinnia TV to bring this groundbreaking dementia-friendly innovation to our clients via our Fractional Director of Resident Engagement program! Hear the science, stories, and research behind this unique streaming service that's earning recognition from major institutions and transforming quality of life for people living with dementia.
Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:
#TFT421 #DementiaCare #SeniorLiving #MemoryCare #TechForGood #CaregiverSupport #AgingInnovation #DigitalHealth #SeniorWellness #HealthcarePodcast #LongTermCare #DementiaAwareness #FoodService #HospitalityIndustry #CareTech #InnovativeCare
Discover the hidden gaps destroying memory care programs in this essential Tips from Trestle episode featuring Dawn Platt, National Director of Memory Care Programs for Discovery Senior Living. Aaron Fish explores how operators can transform their dementia care approach using data analytics, micro-training strategies, and family engagement techniques across 180+ communities nationwide. Learn why traditional memory care programs fail modern residents, how to measure engagement and behavioral patterns, and practical steps for implementing personalized care plans. Dawn shares her proven methodology for reducing incidents, improving staff retention, and creating meaningful resident experiences through her award-winning podcast "The Disappearing Mind." Essential listening for senior living executives, memory care directors, and healthcare professionals seeking evidence-based solutions for dementia care excellence, staff empowerment, and family satisfaction in today's evolving senior living landscape.
Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:
#TFT429 #SeniorLiving #MemoryCare #DementiaCare #SeniorCare #AssistedLiving #ElderCare #CaregiverSupport #DementiaAwareness #HealthcarePodcast #SeniorWellness #CommunitySupport #MentalHealthAwareness #AgingInPlace #LongTermCare #HospitalityMatters
Join Aaron this week as he interviews Bonnie Brindle - "The Anxiety Avenger," on managing anxiety in senior living communities. This essential episode explores practical strategies for helping seniors navigate challenging transitions while supporting overwhelmed caregivers and staff. Brindle, author of "Cracking The Crazy Maker's Code," shares evidence-based techniques for creating calmer community environments and reducing workplace stress. Discover how to identify early anxiety warning signs, improve staff wellbeing, and foster positive energy throughout your senior care facility. Perfect for administrators, caregivers, family members, and hospitality professionals seeking actionable mental health solutions in senior living settings. Learn transformational strategies that enhance resident experiences while preventing caregiver burnout in today's demanding healthcare landscape.
Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:
Get Bonnie’s Book: https://amzn.to/45FPh4u
#TFT428 #SeniorLiving #SeniorCare #MentalHealthAwareness #AnxietyAwareness #Caregiving #Caregiver #AssistedLiving #ElderCare #MentalHealthMatters #SeniorWellness #HealthcareWorkers #CommunitySupport #MentalHealthSupport #SeniorTransitions #HospitalityMatters
According to recent research, social isolation is considered more dangerous than smoking a pack of cigarettes a day. For seniors, social isolation stands out because it amplifies multiple other health risks simultaneously. Unlike single-condition risk factors, social isolation creates a cascade effect that impacts both physical and mental health outcomes.
In this compelling episode of Tips from Trestle shows how cutting-edge technology is revolutionizing how senior living communities are combating social isolation. Aaron discusses this and more with Josh Harris, National Sales Director at AccuShield, sharing about their groundbreaking Love Meter project—an innovative visitor management system that uses data analytics to identify at-risk residents experiencing social isolation and depression. Learn how this technology transforms senior care by tracking visitor patterns, matching volunteers with residents based on shared interests, and improving staff retention through meaningful engagement opportunities.
Explore the future of value-based care in senior living, the integration of behavioral health into the senior living model, and practical solutions for enhancing resident wellbeing through data-driven insights and community connections.
Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:
#TFT427 #SeniorLiving #ProjectLoveMeter #CareCommunity #ResilientLeadership #ResidentSafety #ResidentEngagement #LongTermCare #HealthCareHeroes #SeniorLivingTech #SocialIsolation #SeniorCare #HealthTech #DigitalHealth #ValueBasedCare #TipsFromTrestle #NewEpisode #MentalHealthMatters #AgeInPlace
This episode of Tips from Trestle is an exploration of emergency preparedness for senior living communities, focusing on food service and disaster planning. Aaron takes over the Ben E Keith studios and welcomes in industry veterans Lenny Raymond and Joyce Lamilla, who share firsthand experiences from Hurricane Katrina and major ice storms, revealing how critical pre-planning, culture, and communication are when disaster strikes. Learn how to customize emergency menus, calculate essential supplies like water, and ensure staff and residents are well cared for during crises. With insights on distributor-operator partnerships and real-world disaster scenarios, this podcast delivers actionable tips for senior living leaders to improve their emergency response plans, maximize resident safety, and maintain high-quality hospitality—even in the harshest conditions.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by: - eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenu - WiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOx - Ben E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEK - AdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrust#TFT426 #SeniorLiving #EmergencyPreparedness #FoodService #DisasterPlanning #HospitalityHeroes #CrisisManagement #SeniorDining #CareCommunity #ResilientLeadership #MenuPlanning #StaffWellbeing #ResidentSafety #DistributionChallenges #LongTermCare #HealthCareHeroes
Ready to help your senior living community get ahead of the wellness curve? In this lively episode, Aaron sits down with Brenda Davis, a top plant-based dietitian and international speaker, to unpack how plant-powered eating is transforming senior health. Dive into real-life stories of dramatic turnarounds, practical tips for making menus more plant-forward, and actionable advice for culinary teams looking to please even the most skeptical eaters. Brenda reveals the surprising science behind plant-based nutrition for older adults, how it supports longevity, cognitive function, and reduces the need for multiple medications. Whether you’re a senior living operator, dietitian, chef, or family member, you’ll gain expert insights on boosting satisfaction, cutting costs, and future-proofing dining programs by embracing the plant-based movement. Discover how delicious food can fuel vibrant lives and happier communities!
Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:
#TFT423 #SeniorLiving #HealthyAging #PlantBasedDiet #SeniorNutrition #PlantPoweredSeniors #AgingWell #WellnessForSeniors #EatMorePlants #SeniorDining #VegetarianSeniors #AgelessNutrition #LongevityLifestyle #SeniorHealthCare #PlantForward #CulinaryWellness
Tune in to hear how Presbyterian Homes and Services revolutionized their 47-community senior living operation with point-of-sale technology. Aaron interviews Mary Kieffer, traveling nutrition and culinary director, who shares insider insights on implementing comprehensive POS systems across multiple senior care levels. Learn how integrated technology solutions enhance resident safety through EHR connections, streamlining manual processes, and expand beyond dining to salon services, fitness programs, and family engagement portals. This episode reveals practical strategies for senior living operators seeking operational efficiency, revenue optimization, and improved resident experiences through technology integration. Mary provides actionable advice on cross-departmental collaboration, staff training, and leveraging data analytics for better resident care outcomes in today's competitive senior living marketplace.
Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:
#TFT424 #SeniorLiving #HealthcareTech #PointOfSale #SeniorCare #AssistedLiving #HealthcareInnovation #ElderCare #DigitalHealth #ResidentExperience #CommunityDining #SeniorServices #HealthTech #CaregiverSupport #HospitalityTech #SeniorWellness
Tips from Trestle sat down this week with Chef Matthew Thompson, Chief Culinary Officer at Restaura, to discuss the creation of new culinary and hospitality standards for senior living communities. Learn about the partnership with the International Council on Active Aging, the five core domains of excellence, and the innovative Plate of Distinction program. Chef Thompson shares insights on culinary inclusivity, wellness-driven nutrition, and the importance of hospitality in resident satisfaction. This episode is a must-listen for senior living professionals, culinary leaders, and anyone interested in the future of food, wellness, and community engagement in senior care.
Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:
#TFT423 #SeniorLiving #CulinaryExcellence #HealthyAging #Hospitality #Wellness #ActiveAging #FoodInnovation #SeniorDining #DiningExperience #MenuDevelopment #SustainableDining #CommunityEngagement #ResidentSatisfaction #FoodService #AgingWell
Discover how empathy is transforming leadership in senior living on this episode of Tips from Trestle. Host Aaron Fish welcomes Joseph Cope, “The Empathy Guy,” to break down the actionable CARGO Model for building genuine human connection and accountability in senior living communities. Learn the difference between empathy and sympathy, why empathy is a measurable business skill, and how leaders can foster a culture that improves retention, resident experience, and staff satisfaction. Packed with practical advice for culinary directors, executive directors, and all senior care professionals, this episode is your guide to creating a thriving, people-centered workplace in the evolving world of senior living food and hospitality.
Click here for Joseph's CARGO Empathy Framework
Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:
#TFT422 #seniorliving #seniorcare #assistedliving #eldercare #healthcare #caregiver #community #empathy #leadership #hospitality #compassion #aging #selfcare #caregiving #mentalhealth
Come explore the transformative impact of Zinnia TV on dementia care in this episode of Tips from Trestle! Aaron sits down with Allyson Schrier, co-founder and president of Zinnia TV, who shares her deeply personal journey from caregiver to dementia advocate and tech innovator. Learn how Zinnia’s research-driven, plot-free video content is revolutionizing engagement for people living with dementia—reducing agitation, fostering reminiscence, and empowering caregivers with meaningful connection tools. Discover the science and stories behind this unique streaming service, its proven benefits for senior living communities and home care, and ongoing research partnerships with major institutions. Whether you’re a senior living professional, family caregiver, or technology enthusiast, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiration for improving quality of life through dementia-friendly innovation.
Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:
#TFT421 #DementiaCare #SeniorLiving #MemoryCare #TechForGood #CaregiverSupport #AgingInnovation #DigitalHealth #SeniorWellness #HealthcarePodcast #LongTermCare #DementiaAwareness #FoodService #HospitalityIndustry #CareTech #InnovativeCare
Join Aaron and guest Carrie Aalberts, aka Dementia Darling, for a lively exploration of dementia care through the lens of food, hospitality, and joyful living. Discover how understanding “behaviors” as communication transforms senior dining, why nonverbal cues matter, and how to create truly person-centered environments. Packed with practical tips on reducing overstimulation, designing dignified dining spaces, and honoring residents’ routines, this episode is a must-listen for senior living professionals, caregivers, and families. Learn how small changes—like red plates and positive energy—can spark big improvements in memory care. Tune in for actionable advice, heartfelt stories, and a fresh perspective on making every meal meaningful in senior living communities.
Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:
#TFT420 #SeniorLiving #DementiaCare #MemoryCare #PersonCenteredCare #ElderCare #CaregiverTips #SeniorDining #CompassionateCare #HospitalityMatters #AgingWell #DiningWithDignity #Gerontology #ResidentExperience #DementiaAwareness #JoyfulAging
Discover how senior living dining is being transformed in this episode of Tips from Trestle. Aaron welcomes Liz Oba Killinger, Real Food Mission Ambassador at Thomas Cuisine, to discuss the shift from processed foods to nutrient-dense, scratch-made meals in senior living communities. Liz shares practical strategies for balancing resident preferences with a real food philosophy, engaging both staff and residents in the journey toward wellness and operational excellence. Learn how Thomas Cuisine’s approach boosts resident satisfaction, supports longevity, and empowers culinary teams. Perfect for senior living operators, chefs, and wellness advocates seeking actionable insights to elevate food service and resident engagement in today’s competitive senior living landscape
Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:
#TFT419 #SeniorLiving #FoodService #wellness #healthyeating #seniorcare #hospitality #healthyfood #community #nutrition #aging #residentengagement #scratchcooking #culinarywellness #realfood #assistedliving
We kick off our summer season with another great conversation form the ALAA Spring Conference! This week’s episode finds Aaron catching up with Joyce Lamilla, Director of Healthcare and Nutrition Solutions at Ben E Keith Foods, to explore the evolving role of dietitians in senior living food service. Joyce shares her journey from clinical dietitian to distributor, revealing how her team customizes menus, leverages technology, and supports operators with cost control and compliance. Discover how Ben E Keith’s hands-on approach, innovative menu solutions, and personal customer service are transforming dining experiences for residents across 21 states. Whether you’re a senior living operator or a food service professional, this episode brings great insights on menu development, technology adoption, and building lasting partnerships in the senior living foodservice industry.
Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:
#TFT418 #SeniorLiving #FoodService #DietitianLife #MenuDevelopment #HospitalityInnovation #HealthcareFood #SeniorCare #DiningExperience #NutritionSolutions #CostControl #TechInSeniorLiving #ResidentExperience #CustomMenus #FoodDistribution #HealthyAging
Discover how video is transforming the senior living industry in this latest episode of Tips from Trestle. Aaron sits down with Christie Freeze, senior care guide and video communication expert, to explore the power of authentic video in building trust, boosting occupancy, and nurturing resident loyalty. Christie shares actionable strategies for senior living operators, from using evergreen and personalized videos to reduce no-shows and foster community, to engaging staff and residents in content creation. Learn how simple, unscripted videos can create psychological proximity, enhance the resident experience, and turn leads into lifelong ambassadors. Whether you’re a sales director, chef, or activities coordinator, this episode reveals how video can elevate your senior living community’s hospitality and care.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:
#TFT417 #seniorliving #seniorcare #assistedliving #eldercare #healthcare #community #hospitality #aging #caregiver #family #wellness #dementia #videoengagement #authenticity #residentexperience
