Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Tips from Trestle: The Senior Living Food and Hospitality Podcast
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beyond Activities: Creating Meaningful Engagement | 04 Mar 2025 | 00:29:33 | |
On this week’s Tips from Trestle, Aaron chats with Heather Burns, a seasoned resident engagement professional, to explore innovative strategies for enhancing senior living communities. Heather shares her resident-first philosophy, emphasizing holistic well-being that foster independence and purpose. She highlights the importance of bridging departmental silos, fostering teamwork, and training staff on empathy and compassion to elevate resident care. The discussion also unveils exciting initiatives in her role as the new Corporate Director of Resident Engagement for Trestle Hospitality Concepts - like a comprehensive engagement guidebook & tailored training programs to support activities directors in creating meaningful connections and thriving communities. Tips from Trestle is sponsored by: #TFT407 #SeniorLiving #ResidentEngagement #HolisticCare #MontessoriMethod #ElderCareInnovation #SeniorWellness #TeamworkInCare #CompassionateCare #ActivityDirectors #EmpathyInAction #CommunityConnections #SeniorLivingLeadership #SiloBuster #TrestleHospitality | |||
| Bridging Senior Needs - An RAL Primer | 24 Feb 2025 | 00:26:35 | |
This week’s episode of Tips from Trestle finds Aaron immersing himself into the world of Residential Assisted Living (RAL) with guest Isabelle Guarino, COO of the Residential Assisted Living Academy. Together, they explore how RAL homes offer a unique, personalized alternative to traditional senior living communities by blending residential comfort with professional care. Isabelle shares insights on staffing, creative resident engagement, and the financial models that make RAL a compelling choice for families and entrepreneurs alike. With the "silver tsunami" approaching, this episode sheds light on how RAL homes can address the growing demand for senior care. Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:
Social - RAL Academy
#TFT406 #SeniorLivingInnovation #ResidentialAssistedLiving #SilverTsunami #CreativeCaregiving #SeniorCareRevolution #ResidentEngagement #PersonalizedSeniorCare #SmallHomeBigImpact #SeniorLivingTrends2025 #ElderCareSolutions #FoodServiceInSeniorLiving #CommunityCareMatters #InnovativeSeniorHousing #CompassionateCaregiving #FutureOfSeniorLiving | |||
| Savoring Senior Wellness | 25 Nov 2024 | 00:17:55 | |
In this episode of Tips from Trestle, Aaron reconnects with Nancy Rhodes from the GFS team at the recent Georgia Senior Living Association Conference. Nancy is a non-commercial business solutions specialist at Gordon Food Service, and a recent guest host on Trestle Tactics. Aaron & Nancy discuss the evolving concept of wellness in senior living communities, emphasizing its six dimensions, and they talk about innovative ideas for incorporating wellness into senior living through food-related activities, and the conversation highlights the importance of engaging residents, staff, and external resources to create diverse wellness programs that can drive occupancy and improve overall community satisfaction. Tips from Trestle is sponsored by eMenuChoice & ClarkPro #SeniorLiving #HealthyAging #FoodService #CulinaryInnovation #SeniorCare #NutritionMatters #ActiveAging #SeniorWellness #FoodieLife #HealthyLiving #SeniorLifestyle #CommunityEngagement #FoodForThought #AgingWell | |||
| Crafting Captivating Tabletops | 25 Jul 2023 | 00:27:04 | |
Dining is a sensory experience, and it all starts with our eyes. Knowing that, are you ready to create a visually stunning and inviting dining experience for your senior living community? Join us on Tips from Trestle this week as we sit down with Heidi Noe, a Boelter Superstore leader as we explore a critical piece of dining real estate - the tabletop. Discover how Heidi's background in retail and visual merchandising has empowered her to design captivating tabletops for senior living operators. During the episode, Aaron and Heidi dive into the art of streamlining tabletops, considering aesthetics, functionality, storage space, staffing levels, and budget for various dining concepts. We also discuss the significance of creating tailor-made tabletop setups for different care levels, with a focus on visually appealing and inviting dining experiences for residents in skilled nursing and memory care settings. Moreover, uncover the potential revenue source of high-quality room service experiences, providing added value for communities and convenience for families. Don't miss this insightful episode that elevates your tabletop game to a whole new level! Heidi Noe is Boelter Superstore Leader at their Glendale, WI location and has been with the company for over 6 years. In addition to her time as a superstore leader, she also worked at the Boelter corporate office providing executive level support to their operations. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & hospitality operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support TFT is sponsored by: Links: Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish/ Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com Heidi Noe: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidi-noe-a2977694/ The Boelter Companies: https://www.boelter.com/ | |||
| "Navigating" GPO Partnerships | 18 Jul 2023 | 00:29:40 | |
Ever wondered how you can easily optimize your purchasing decisions and develop an amazing partnership at the same time? Join Aaron for this episode of "Tips from Trestle" as he delves into the world of Group Purchasing Organizations (GPOs) and the key role of trust in this realm. We speak with Brian Lopp of Navigator Group Purchasing, who shares his journey from the food industry to the GPO world, highlighting the benefits of GPOs in aggregating spending to secure better prices and contracts with manufacturers. Throughout the conversation, Aaron and Brian emphasize the importance of building strong relationships with GPOs to effectively manage costs and deliver exceptional services to residents. Trust and accountability are key pillars in this partnership, and finding a reliable GPO to rely on can make all the difference in optimizing contracts and providing the best value. Don't miss out on this enlightening episode! Tune in to unlock the secrets to successful GPO collaboration. Brian Lopp has been with Navigator Group Purchasing since March 2018 and is currently the Vice President of Operations. He has 26 years’ experience in the food industry which includes operations, distribution, GPO and government. He is responsible for multiple areas of the Navigator organization including GPO operations, contracts, field implementation and market baskets. Brian graduated from the New England Culinary Institute with a BA in Culinary Arts, and Hospitality and Restaurant Management. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & hospitality operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support TFT is sponsored by: Links: Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish/ Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com Brian Lopp: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-lopp-28747513/ Navigator: | |||
| From Venice, Virtually | 12 Jul 2023 | 00:32:20 | |
Ready for an extraordinary virtual adventure? Join Aaron on this well-traveled podcast episode as he talks to Susan Black, Founder and Chief "Wow" Executive Officer of Wowzitude. Aaron & Susan unveil the magic of Wowzitude, a game-changing live stream virtual tour service designed with an eye on supporting You'll learn how residents can be immersed in captivating destinations, engage in real-time interactions with knowledgeable guides, and discover Food & Beverage trip kits packed with local recommendations. Wowzitude collaborates with senior living communities, creating an authentic and engaging experience that fosters social connections and fuels our innate sense of exploration. So, don't miss out on this fascinating conversation that breaks barriers and brings the world to your fingertips. It's time to kick-start your virtual journey with Wowzitude today! In 2021, Susan Black launched award-winning Wowzitude, live-streamed virtual travel, for thousands of armchair travelers, experiencing interactive guided walking tours in 100+ cities around the world. SUsan was able to accomplish this as a high-energy entrepreneur, accomplished strategist, with a distinguished career successfully launching businesses and reinvigorating established brands within the travel industry. Throughout her career, she's led transformative customer-focused strategies for start-ups to Fortune 500 companies, generating $10MM to $10B in revenues. Susan’s 60+ travel clients have brought her across 37 countries and six continents and have included leading brands in travel and tourism. Susan is a graduate of Rutgers University and holds a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree in Urban Planning from University College London (UCL). Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & hospitality operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support TFT is sponsored by:
Links: Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish/ Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com Susan Black: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanblackassociates/ Wowzitude: | |||
| From Caregiver to Influencer | 26 Jun 2023 | 00:35:12 | |
Have you ever wondered...what exactly is Speech Therapy is and what is the crucial role it plays in senior living? On this week's TFT, Aaron sits with Adria Thompson. Adria shares her journey into the senior care space and discusses her work with individuals facing communication, swallowing, and cognition disorders. Adria unlocks the secrets of how speech therapists can impact the success of your dining operations and the pivotal role they play in improving the quality of life for seniors. Adria also shares her journey to becoming a leading social media influencer, with nearly 130,000 Instagram and 146,000 TikTok followers for her message and support for those providing care to those with dementia. Adria Thompson is a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist with over 9 years of experience in dementia care. She is the owner of Be Light Care Consulting, where she creates educational content for professional and personal caregivers on social media platforms. She holds a master's and bachelor's degree in Communication Disorders from Eastern Kentucky University. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & hospitality operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support TFT is sponsored by: - The Boelter Company - Navigator GPO - eMenuChoice POS Links: Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish/ Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com Adria on Socials
Adria Thompson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrialthompson/ Be Light Care Consulting: https://www.belightcare.com/ | |||
| How Food & Beverage Can Build Community | 20 Jun 2023 | 00:29:18 | |
Have you ever wondered how food can truly build community among residents in senior living? It starts with a fundamental question: What is the purpose and expected outcome of the dining experience? In this engaging episode of Tips from Trestle, we dive deep into the transformative power of food in senior living communities. Join Aaron & Matt Perez as they explore the insights and experiences they have had with developing a strong purpose and advocating for creating meaningful dining experiences. Through his contagious enthusiasm, Matt emphasizes the importance of getting others fired up about food as a catalyst for fostering connections, and collaboration and inclusivity take center stage as Aaron and Matt discuss the keys to crafting dining experiences that resonate with residents. They shed light on the need for flexibility and versatility in food programs, ensuring nutrient density and wholesome food choices that nourish both the body and the soul. So are you ready to make a positive impact in senior living communities through transformative dining experiences? Tune in to this inspiring episode and discover how local produce vendors, well-defined training programs, and prioritizing the team can create an environment where community and connection thrive. Matt Perez is currently the National Director of Dining Operations for MBK Senior Living. In his role he supports and leads the dining strategic direction for the company, additionally supporting each community culinary & service programs to create a best-in-class resident experience. A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone in Napa Valley, Matt’s prior roles included, VP of Hospitality at Vineyard Luxury Communities, National Director of Dining at Kisco Senior Living, Principle of Fork Fusion Consultants and Executive Chef / Partner at TS Restaurants. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & hospitality operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support TFT is sponsored by: - The Boelter Company - Navigator GPO - eMenuChoice POS Links: Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish/ Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com Katie Griffith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-j-perez-3156a149 MBK Senior Living: https://www.mbkseniorliving.com | |||
| F&B Futurism: Channeling Ray Kurzweil | 13 Jun 2023 | 00:30:57 | |
"The past is over; the present is fleeting; we live in the future." - Ray Kurzweil When we're talking about technology trends in senior living and dining, we often discuss robots and point-of-sale systems. But what would it look and sound like if we push the envelope and embraced the most cutting edge of technology and futuristic endeavors in our operations? That's the focus for host Aaron Fish and his guest Katie Griffith on this week's episode of Tips from Trestle. They dive into a few possibilities on how the latest and most cutting edge technologies could amplify our services and better empower both residents and employees in creating a community focused on meeting the needs of everyone that it serves. It's a fascinating dive into technology such as AI and autonomous vehicles, and how they could shape the senior living communities of the future - and how they can expand the hospitality and food services that we provide as well. Katie Griffith started Bright Solutions, a technology consulting firm exclusively serving senior living, eight years ago when she saw a need for senior living providers to have an unbiased third party help them evaluate and implement technology in their communities. Their experts help leaders of senior living communities create a technology plan that attracts the next generation of residents and employees. They have their finger on the pulse of senior services tech with the knowledge of what’s working, what’s not, and how to maximize value from every dollar. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & hospitality operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support TFT is sponsored by: - The Boelter Company - Navigator GPO - eMenuChoice POS Links: Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish/ Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com Katie Griffith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrightsolutions/ Bright Solutions: https://www.brightsolutions.co/ | |||
| The Power of Strategic Alliances | 06 Jun 2023 | 00:28:16 | |
Are you interested in elevating your senior living dining experience using the power of your strategic partnerships with your vendors? Join us on Tips from Trestle as we dive into the transformative power of partnerships in the food service and senior living industries. In this episode, we speak with Brit Gala-Ploeckelmann, who shares her expertise in creating exceptional dining experiences for seniors. With a wealth of experience in hospitality and a passion for customer service, Brit discusses the importance of building long-term partnerships, customized solutions, and providing transparent communication. Discover how she helps to bring to life The Boelter Companies' partnership-based approach to help senior living operators elevate their dining programs, enhance resident satisfaction, and stay ahead of industry trends. So are you ready to take your community's dining experience to the next level? Don't miss this conversation about how you can use your partnerships to elevate your residents' culinary journey and create a lasting impact. After many early years of diverse foodservice and hospitality experience, Brit Gala-Ploeckelmann spent 10 years focusing on Senior Living, working for a private healthcare company as a Senior Foodservice Consultant, working with customers to customize selections for commercial kitchen equipment and smallwares, with emphasis on layout and design. She then expanded her experience by traveling abroad and working with global companies in retail food operations and commercial cooking equipment manufacturing to manage complex business projects and bids. Brit’s deep passion for customer service and exceptional client experience brought her back to Senior Living and Boelter to provide value-added solutions, continued support to national and key accounts, and innovative problem solving for all our Senior Living valued customers. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & hospitality operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support TFT is sponsored by: - The Boelter Company - Navigator GPO - eMenuChoice POS Links: Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish/ Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com Brit Gala-Ploeckelmann: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brit-gala-ploeckelmann-cfsp-54b8546 The Boelter Companies: https://www.boelter.com/ | |||
| Trust but Verify | 23 May 2023 | 00:35:23 | |
Are you curious about the world of digital auditing and its transformative potential? How do you audit the complex operations of your senior living operation and ensure trust? In this episode of Tips from Trestle, we delve into the fascinating realm of digital auditing with George Collado, the CEO of My Field Audits. Aaron & George explore the answers to thought-provoking questions surrounding digital audit tools, their applications, and the future of auditing. George shares valuable insights into the process of auditing, the value it brings to all levels of stakeholders, and sheds light on the tools used in this dynamic practice. They also discuss how digital audit tools enable businesses to ensure compliance, efficiency, and accuracy in an ever expanding footprint for senior living operators. George provides expert guidance on leveraging these tools to collect and analyze data, mitigate risks, and drive operational excellence. If you're seeking a deeper understanding of digital audits and the tools driving this transformative process, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in as we unravel the power and possibilities of digital auditing tools with George Collado. As an entrepreneur, George Collado has spent the last 20 years investing in people first and ideas second. He believes one of the most important things in life is to maximize your potential and inspire others to do the same. Over his career he’s invested in and managed several Hospitality businesses, including restaurants, bars and live music venues. He has also launched three startup’s-one in the Fashion & Short film industry, which produced a Doritos Superbowl contest winning commercial, and two in the technology industry. George has had the privilege of mentoring entrepreneur students at The Marshall School of business (USC) and serving in leadership roles of several Churches. He is a Marathoner, fitness enthusiast and life long learner. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & hospitality operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support TFT is sponsored by: - The Boelter Company - Navigator GPO - eMenuChoice POS Links: Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish/ Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com George Collado: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgecollado/ My Field Audits: https://www.myfieldaudits.com/ | |||
| BULLish on Senior Living | 16 May 2023 | 00:36:05 | |
What impact does the food experience have on the real estate and investor aspects of the senior living industry? Do investors even consider it when they look at their portfolio? It's a question that TFT host Aaron Fish wanted to get more answers to, so he connected with Shane Connor to talk senior living investing, real estate, and yes, how the F&B operation impacts all of this. It's a forward looking conversation that is a smart listen for anyone that is interested in better understanding the senior living market and how investors have shifted their thinking about how to approach assets in the space. Shane Connor is the Vice President of Bull Realty’s Senior Housing Group, specializing in the acquisition and disposition of institutional-quality senior housing and healthcare-related properties with a particular focus on the Southeast. He brings over 10 years of healthcare industry knowledge and has experience investing as well as advising in commercial real estate. His focus is on property types to include Age Restricted Multifamily, Independent Living, and traditional Seniors Housing. Shane is deeply passionate about the intersection of Real Estate, Seniors, and Healthcare. Shane holds a B.S. in Finance from King’s College and a Master’s in Business and Health Administration from The University of Scranton. He is also actively involved in both the National Investment Center and the Urban Land Institute. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & hospitality operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support TFT is sponsored by: - The Boelter Company - Navigator GPO - eMenuChoice POS Links: Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish/ Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com Shane Connor:
Bull Realty: www.bullrealty.com/ | |||
| Listen, Listen, Listen | 09 May 2023 | 00:24:59 | |
When you are working on a project, how do you ensure that it is a success? It's not rocket science, it's simple - listen to your customer. On this episode of Tips from Trestle, we talked with Becky Clark and Mary Warrell of Clark Food Service Equipment. We dive into their approach on creating support for specialized projects and how they have developed their process to be able to make any customers project a success. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & hospitality operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support TFT is sponsored by: - The Boelter Company - Navigator GPO - eMenuChoice POS - Clark Food Service Equipment Links: Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com Becky Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/becky-smith-cfsp-095189b/ Mary Warrell: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-warrell-230079b5/ | |||
| Experience Matters: Improving Resident Experience with POS - Part 2 | 18 Nov 2024 | 00:37:18 | |
This week’s episode is the continuation of our live podcast discussing the value of a point of sale system in your senior living community. Aaron & Matt are chatting with operators Paige Hoffman, Katie Tibbets, & Kim Bendickson on how they are using their point of sales system to not only create revenue opportunities, but how each of them are elevating the resident, guest & family experience in all areas of their communities by embracing the flexibility and functionality of their eMenuChoice system. Tips from Trestle is sponsored by eMenuChoice & ClarkPro #TFT342 #SeniorLivingTech #SeniorDining #SeniorCareInnovation #DigitalHealthcare #SeniorLivingTrends #FoodServiceTech #ResidentExperience #AgingInPlace #SeniorDiningInnovation #PointOfSale #CX #AssistedLiving #SeniorCareRevolution #FoodTechTrends | |||
| Embrace Your Essence | 02 May 2023 | 00:31:29 | |
Have you ever stopped for a second to look around and realize that somehow you got "boxed" in to your career? It can happen to the best hospitality professional - we get into our daily routines and work processes and feel that we get into a mental block and our growth stalls. What we need is to dig deep and realize that all the tools needed to break through is already within ourselves. And that's where our guest Alison Anne comes in. Alison blends her experience as a restaurateur and passion to help hospitality professionals use their "essence" to rise above and find greater success. Alison Anne is the founder of Alison Anne Coaching and Restaurant Revolution, and loves bars and restaurants. She has spent over half of her life working in the industry. What started as an after-school job in high school developed into a 17-year career, ranging from bussing tables at a family-owned Italian restaurant in her hometown to a role as the Communications and Events Director of Washington DC’s #1 sports bar. Alison help bars and restaurants identify techniques and policies that are affecting management and employees in both positive and negative ways, develop new policies and practices, and create workplaces that not only hang onto their employees, but that are actually - gasp! - pretty dang enjoyable to work in. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & beverage operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support TFT is sponsored by: - The Boelter Company - Navigator GPO - eMenuChoice POS Links: Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com Alison Anne:
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| The Joy in Building a Culture of Learning | 25 Apr 2023 | 00:31:39 | |
What would happen in your organization if you allowed new employees to do a capstone project about their role in the operation as a part of their onboarding process? What if they had THIRTEEN weeks to complete it? In this episode of Tips from Trestle, Aaron chats with James Lee, Founder & CEO of Bella Groves They discuss how he has built a thriving culture of learning within his company, and why more senior living operators should as well. From creating a supportive learning environment to offering ongoing training and development opportunities, James talks about fostering a company culture that values personal and professional growth as well as an environment that honors the individual on a dementia journey. Whether you're a business leader looking to inspire your team or an individual seeking to develop your own skills, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical tips for building a culture of learning. From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & beverage operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support Links: Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com James Lee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seniorlivingguy/ Bella Groves: https://www.bellagroves.com/ | |||
| Are Your Residents Bored or Beaming? | 19 Apr 2023 | 00:31:48 | |
How does a cupcake explain a great resident engagement program? In this episode of TFT, we're diving into the state of resident engagement in senior living communities. We talk to Nikki Jo Olsen, who shares insights and trends from the front lines of the industry, exploring what's working and what's not when it comes to keeping residents happy, active, and engaged. From virtual reality experiences to creative dining options, we'll discuss the latest trends and innovative ideas for keeping residents stimulated and social. We even talk about keeping the program focused and successful, even when you have many communities to manage. So toss that bingo card in the trash and get ready to join the party – this episode is packed with fun and practical advice for anyone looking to boost resident engagement in senior living. Nikki Jo Olsen has been in the wellness and event coordinating industry since 2010. As a Certified Personal Trainer, Group Fitness Trainer, Functional Aging Specialist, and Fitness Studio Manager she has gained the necessary knowledge to understand and implement life enrichment wellness programs for the senior demographic. With experience as a Client Relations Manager, Office Manager, Resident Enrichment Director and a Senior Director of Resident Experience, Nikki Jo immersed herself in the customer experience industry and refined her skills for developing and implementing creative, challenging, unique, and active programs and events while balancing exceptional customer service. Originally from Florida, she graduated from Florida State University with a Bachelor's in Recreation Management. She now lives in Nashville with her husband and two daughters. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & beverage operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support Tips From Trestle is sponsored by: Show Links: Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com Nikki Jo Olsen:
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| The Calculus of Purpose | 04 Apr 2023 | 00:31:41 | |
Purpose is not a goal or role. Who you are, what you notice, and how you’re built - that’s your purpose and it informs how you show up for your roles and goals. In this episode of Tips from Trestle, we explore the concept of purpose and how to find it using "The Purpose Equation®" as developed by industry veteran & entrepreneur Anna Hall. Aaron talks with Anna about her journey to creating The Purpose Equation®, and they discuss how important it is for senior living operators to create a sense of purpose throughout their communities, from staff, to residents, to families. Anna then turns the tables on Aaron by asking a few questions as she shows him how the process of creating a Purpose Equation begins. Anna Hall is the Founder + Chief Purpose Officer of The Purpose Equation®. Through over 20 years as an engagement thought-leader in senior living, the most difficult challenge of her career was how to define purpose. The questions that she asked: "We know how important it is to have a reason to rise in the morning, but how do we identify it and activate it consistently - and measure it?" The definition of purpose is vague; ‘having a sense of meaning and motivation to do things’. Anna's philosophy on purpose is derived from research, intuition, willingness to try new things, and fail, and most of all, years of interacting with people in their 80’s and 90’s. She now has the pleasure of collaborating with individuals and organizations to share simple, meaningful tools that define, activate, fuel and measure purpose in daily life. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & beverage operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support Links: Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com Anna Hall+ https://www.linkedin.com/in/annakhall1/ The Purpose Equation®: https://thepurposeequation.com/ | |||
| The Power of Provocative Storytelling | 28 Mar 2023 | 00:31:02 | |
"It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen." - George Orwell, 1984 Stories are how we share our knowledge, history, and how we teach future generations about the times we lived in. They are also how we can connect with our prospective audience - intellectually, emotionally, and even spiritually. Storytelling is how we can harness the power of imagination to inspire and motivate. In this episode of TFT, Aaron visits with Cheryl Slavinsky. Cheryl shares insights on how to leverage provocative storytelling to engage, connect, and inspire your audience. We discuss how to avoid common mistakes and ensure authenticity in your stories while also embracing the power of storytelling to build relationships, create support systems, and foster a strong company culture. Cheryl Slavinsky is an engaging brand storyteller and passionate advocate with a lifetime of experience helping organizations tell their success stories. She’s an award-winning writer and editor with a demonstrated history of working in the aging services industry. She previously served as Editor of Senior Living News and Senior Public Relations Strategist for Varsity, a senior living-focused marketing firm. Currently Cheryl serves as the Member Storyteller for the Senior Dining Association. The SDA is the only dedicated association providing resources, education and networking opportunities for dining & hospitality in the senior living industry. She writes the weekly digital newsletter Senior Dining News and edits the SDA’s magazine, HOSPITALITY & DINING, Enhancing the Senior Living Experience. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & beverage operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support Links: Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com Cheryl Slavinsky: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylslavinsky Senior Dining Association: https://seniordining.org | |||
| It's More Than A Feeling... | 14 Mar 2023 | 00:31:21 | |
It's more than a feeling...that's how the Boston tune goes. And it's how this episode of TFT went, as I connected with Matt Perez to talk about hospitality as a strategic value, and what that actually means when you have to sell the vision to both the C-Suite and the front line. Matt and I bonded over a shared passion for what a great hospitality strategy can do for a senior living operator, and we share our (similar) senior living origin stories and why those set the stage for our careers as industry leaders focused on bringing the best experiences to our residents. Southern California native Matt Perez has enjoyed a career that has taken him to some of the most sought-after destinations in the world. He is currently the National Director of Dining Operations for MBK Senior Living. In his role he supports and leads the dining strategic direction for the company, additionally supporting each community culinary & service programs to create a best-in-class resident experience. Matt’s prior roles included, VP of Hospitality at Vineyard Luxury Communities, National Director of Dining at Kisco Senior Living, Principle of Fork Fusion Consultants and Executive Chef / Partner at TS Restaurants. Perez was educated at the highly regarded Culinary Institute of America at Greystone in Napa Valley and over the years, has honed his skills working with some of the country’s best known restaurateurs including Chris Cosentino, Jordan Kahn and Adam Fleishman. In Hawaii, Matt had the privilege of serving under Hawaii Regional Cuisine Founder, Peter Merriman. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & beverage operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support Links: Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com Matt Perez: www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-j-perez-3156a149/ MBK Senior Living: www.mbkseniorliving.com | |||
| Unleashing Your Influencer Brand: A Chat with The Brand Therapist℠ | 07 Mar 2023 | 00:31:26 | |
In today's landscape of social media influencers, how is someone supposed to set themselves apart? And why would a full-time employee even need a personal brand? A personal brand is not just for executives, it's for everyone. In this episode of Tips from Trestle, we sit down with Michelle B Griffin, The Brand Therapist℠ to discuss the value of personal branding and how it can set you apart on platforms like LinkedIn. From creating a standout profile to maximizing your connections, this episode is a must-listen for professionals in the senior living industry at every level. MICHELLE B. GRIFFIN, is an internationally certified personal brand and marketing strategist, speaker, author, 2x podcast host and community builder who has devoted her career to connecting people, growing communities, and building brands. As The Brand Therapist,℠ Michelle trains professional services providers and practices worldwide to clearly communicate their story, confidently share their expertise and positively grow their authority and businesses with personal brands that make a statement and make a difference. Michelle's debut book, The LinkedIn Branding Book, is available on Amazon. Learn more at MichelleBGriffin.com. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & hospitality operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. TFT is sponsored by: Additional Links:
Connect with Michelle:
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| The Key Ingredient: Why POS is a Gamechanger | 28 Feb 2023 | 00:38:24 | |
Are you ready to spice up your community's dining experience? This TFT has the technological ingredients & recipe for success for senior living dining operations! In the fast-paced world of senior living food and hospitality, technology is quickly becoming a critical component for success. In this episode of Tips from Trestle, we speak with Matt Stenerson, Co-Founder and CEO at eMenuCHOICE POS about the value of point-of-sale systems in senior living communities. From revenue capture to process improvement to customer service, Aaron & Matt share valuable insights on why a good point-of-sale system is more than just a "nice-to-have" tool. If you're an owner/operator, executive, or even a dining director in the senior living industry, you won't want to miss this episode! Matt Stenerson is the co-founder and CEO of eMenuChoice. Matt has over 15 years of experience managing the development and implementation of complex software applications. In 2012, Matt began working with Lyngblomsten, a nonprofit Senior Living provider in St. Paul, MN, on an application to provide residents in their care center with more choice, while also modernizing the kitchen’s then, paper-based process. That work led to the creation of eMenuCHOICE Point of Sale. In 2015, eMenuChoice won the LeadingAge Minnesota Leading Change Innovation award and Lyngblomsten began offering eMenuChoice to other communities. Today, eMenuChoice has evolved to support the complex needs of all senior communities from dietary management in Skilled Nursing, to Point-of-Sale in Assisted, Independent Living and CCRCs/LPCs. eMenuChoice is improving dining at hundreds of communities throughout the United States and Canada. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & hospitality operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. TFT is sponsored by: Additional Links:
Connect with Matt & eMenuCHOICE
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| Beyond the Room: The Importance of Experience in Senior Living Sales | 21 Feb 2023 | 00:36:30 | |
What if I told you that your Sales and F&B teams could be as great together as peanut butter and jelly? In the senior living industry, it's not enough to just sell a room or a meal - it's about selling the entire experience. In this episode of Tips from Trestle, Aaron visits with Julie Podewitz of Grow Your Occupancy to explore the importance of creating a seamless and exceptional experience for residents, and how sales and food & beverage teams can work together to make that happen. We offer actionable tips and insights to help you avoid overselling and under-delivering, and to adjust to the ever-changing market. Julie Podewitz is the CEO & Founder of Grow Your Occupancy, a sales & marketing consultancy specializing in senior living. Julie is a senior living sales expert and published author, and has spent time on both the provider and consultant side, all focused on sales and marketing. Julie began her career as a community sales director and quickly filled census-challenged buildings. Her experience as a teacher, trainer and coach gave her great insight to consult with hundreds of communities across 46 states. She has spent the past eight years in the VP Sales and CMO roles on the provider side. All along, she kept her foot on the ground, never losing the “here and now” experience of the customer – the prospects, families, community, executive and ownership entities she serves. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & hospitality operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. TFT is sponsored by: Additional Links:
Connect with Julie Podewitz:
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| Aspire for More | 14 Feb 2023 | 00:30:56 | |
Motivation. Mindset. Momentum. All words we use to describe creating a success in any endeavor. Do you and your teams Aspire for More of this in your everyday operations? In this episode, we visit with Erin Thompson, a seasoned executive director with 20 years of experience in the senior living industry, specializing in assisted living and memory care. Erin's passion for serving residents and their families has enabled her to lead each community she has worked with to high occupancy and peak performing teams, through her focus on teamwork, hard work, and motivation. We talk about how she managed her foodservice operations with little experience in a kitchen, and how her willingness to learn helped her achieve a high level of success there and throughout her career. Erin's new endeavor is Aspire for More with Erin, a company that focuses on leadership development for families caring for elderly loved ones, as well as for leadership teams in the senior living industry. The company's main mission is to fill in the gaps in training and development, to create, hire and retain great leaders in the industry. Aspire for More with Erin is a group and individual leadership development company that focuses on mindset, motivation, and momentum. Join us in this episode as Erin shares her inspiring journey and sheds light on the importance of mindset, motivation, and momentum in the senior living industry. She is the host of two podcasts aimed at improving the senior living industry: I Have Fallen and Need Some Help (for families) and Aspire for More with Erin (for industry professionals) Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & hospitality operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. TFT is sponsored by: Additional Links:
Connect with Erin Thompson
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| Experience Matters: Improving Resident Experience with POS - Part 1 | 12 Nov 2024 | 00:17:00 | |
Recorded live for a select audience, this week’s TFT is the first of a two-part podcast that explores how eMenuChoice, and it’s unique approach to serving senior living, can and does enhance the resident experience. Here in Part 1, Aaron chats with Matt Stenerson and they discuss how the technology improves resident interactions, streamlines dining processes, and captures revenue efficiently. By integrating technology into senior living dining services, communities can offer a more restaurant-like experience, leading to increased resident satisfaction and operational efficiency across various care levels, from independent living to memory care. Tips from Trestle is sponsored by eMenuChoice & ClarkPro #TFT341 #SeniorLivingTech #SeniorDining #SeniorCareInnovation #DigitalHealthcare #SeniorLivingTrends #FoodServiceTech #ResidentExperience #AgingInPlace #SeniorDiningInnovation #PointOfSale #CX #AssistedLiving #SeniorCareRevolution #FoodTechTrends | |||
| "Alma By Stephan Pyles' - A Unique Culinary Collab | 07 Feb 2023 | 00:39:19 | |
Serving seniors & open to the public? Buckle up for a culinary collaboration that breaks the mold, as we explore how the expertise of a James Beard award winner and a forward thinking senior living operator is bringing the public inside of their unique restaurant concept. In this episode of TFT, we delve into the unique partnership between MedCore Partners and Stephan Pyles, the "founding father of Southwestern Cuisine" in the creation of Alma by Stephan Pyles, a public-private restaurant that aims to serve both the residents of The Hacienda at Georgetown, and the larger community of Sun City, a suburb of Austin, TX. Along with Tiffany Cobern (Director of Senior Housing Operations), we explore the journey of how this partnership came about and what it took to bring Alma by Stephan Pyles to life. Tiffany & Chef Pyles share their insights into what makes this partnership so special and how it will change the face of senior living F&B operations going forward. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & hospitality operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. TFT is sponsored by: Additional Links:
Connect with Tiffany Cobern:
Follow MedCore Partners
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| Discovering the Mediterranean Way | 31 Jan 2023 | 00:40:05 | |
What is the secret to creating a menu featuring Italy's healthiest secrets? Join us as we discover the beauty of the Mediterranean Diet and explore the traditional methods and key ingredients that make this diet so beloved. In this episode, we welcome Amanda Goldman, a registered dietitian who took a trip to Italy to explore the Mediterranean diet and bring back its "secrets" to the non-commercial foodservice sector in the US. She shares her experience visiting various regions in Italy and learning about the traditional methods of product preparation, as well as the key ingredients used in the Mediterranean diet. She speaks about the importance of incorporating these healthy habits into our daily lives, and how the Mediterranean diet can have a positive impact on our overall health and well-being. We also explore how producers in these regions are working to bring their authentic products to the US for use in operations such as senior living food service. Amanda Goldman is currently the Healthcare Industry Sales Strategist for Gordon Food Service. In this role, she utilizes her background to serve as a segment customer operational and financial subject matter expert for the national healthcare sales team. She obtained her B.S. in Dietetics from Miami University, and her M.S. in Clinical Nutrition from the University of Kentucky. Prior to her current role, Amanda was the System Director for the Catholic Health Initiatives Food & Nutrition Services national program. There she helped to implement room service dining, healthy food initiatives, as well as guest satisfaction & comprehensive malnutrition programs. Amanda volunteers on a number of committees affiliated with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. In addition, she is an Association for Healthcare Foodservice Industry Advisory Board member, a Past President of the Kentucky Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, and a member of the AHCA/NCAL Customer Experience Committee. She is passionate about food & nutrition, and has been speaking for several years at multiple state & national association events on a variety of timely topics. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & hospitality operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. TFT is sponsored by: Additional Links:
Connect with Amanda Goldman:
Follow Gordon Foodservice:
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| Seeing the “Full Spectrum” of Senior Living Recruitment | 24 Jan 2023 | 00:33:11 | |
Ready to unlock new opportunities and advance your career in senior living? This episode of "Tips From Trestle" explores the "Full Spectrum" of senior living recruitment and will help you uncover the secrets to success in getting to the next level in your senior living journey. Aaron sat down with Katie Churchill, a leading expert in senior living recruitment to discover the keys to unlocking new opportunities and advancing your career in the industry. She shares her insights on the recruitment process for senior living, discusses the different factors she looks for in a candidate when hiring for leadership roles, the difference between filling a community leader position versus a regional or corporate role and how using a recruiter can be beneficial for individuals looking to find their next position Katie is a Managing Partner at Full Spectrum overseeing the Senior Living practice on the West Coast, recruiting in retained searches for executive leadership roles. She began her journey in senior living began at a young age, calling bingo at a local non-profit senior living community and with a grandfather diagnosed with Alzheimer's. She set out to earn a degree in Health Administration and Gerontology and her mission was to change the lives of seniors and family members she had the privilege of interacting with. She spent ten years in the Senior Living industry as a Regional Sales Director and Sales Director for senior living operators on the West Coast and after traveling and being heavily involved in her regions sales and marketing efforts, she joined an Independent and Assisted Living community working in Resident Relations and Operations. It was there that Katie became Forbes Customer Service Certified, expanding in providing exceptional customer service to residents and family members of the community. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & hospitality operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. TFT is sponsored by: Additional Links:
Follow Katie Churchill:
Follow Full Spectrum Search Group:
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| David Page's Delicious Discoveries: From Triple-D to "Food Americana" | 17 Jan 2023 | 00:35:51 | |
It's a Food Network staple -Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.. But how did it start, and what does it have to do with our experiences with food in senior living? Get ready for a captivating season premiere episode of Tips From Trestle where Aaron sits down with two-time Emmy winner David Page, the mastermind behind the hit food show, Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. He shares his journey, secrets behind his book "Food Americana", shares the common thread he has discovered when people dine, and future trends in food industry. David shares his predictions on the hottest trends that operators will embrace, including the increased focus on sustainability and the use of technology in the restaurant industry. He also shares his personal food experiences with his mother-in-law in assisted living, and the challenges of providing delicious and nutritious food for older adults. Join us for an engaging conversation with David Page and gain access to his wealth of knowledge on American food culture and the world of food television. David Page changed the world of food television by creating, developing, and executive-producing the groundbreaking show Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Before that, as a network news producer based in London, Frankfurt, and Budapest, he traveled Europe, Africa, and the Middle East doing two things―covering some of the biggest stories in the world, and developing a passion for some of the world’s most incredible food. Once back in the states, Page pursued his passion both personally and professionally. Show-producing Good Morning America, his substantial food coverage included cooking segments by Emeril Lagasse. Creating Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives and hands-on producing its first eleven seasons took him deep into the world of American food―its vast variations, its history, its evolution, and especially the dedicated cooks and chefs keeping it vibrant. His next series, the syndicated Beer Geeks, dove deep into the intersection of great beer and great food. It is those experiences—that education, the discovery of little-known stories and facts—that led Page to dig even deeper and tie the strands together in his new book, Food Americana. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & hospitality operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. TFT is sponsored by: Additional Links:
David Page's Food Americana:
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| Building a Place For Dining Professionals | 06 Dec 2022 | 00:27:17 | |
Senior living food service is a unique operation. It's not exactly a restaurant or country club, but it's also not healthcare. It is a delicate blend of managing both while balancing the vision of full-service hospitality in the homes of our residents. And as dedicated professionals in this immense sector, we know that our professional networks are invaluable to our growth, development, and even our sanity. But when you are a dining & hospitality professional in senior living, your options seem limited. What should you do? That where the Senior Dining Association comes in to fill this void. Started in 2018 by founder & CEO Harris Ader, the Senior Dining Association was started to provide foodservice professionals something much needed for our industry - a place where we could come together with other professionals that specialize in senior living. Ien this episode of TFT, Aaron talks with Harris about the origins of the SDA, how it evolved and grew throughout the pandemic, and what he has on the horizon for senior living food service professionals heading into 2023. Harris Ader has more than 20 years of operational experience in the senior living industry. His extensive background also includes experience in contract foodservice management, the national school lunch program, hotels and restaurants. Prior to founding the Senior Dining Association, Harris was the Vice President of Dining Service at Senior Living Communities, based in Charlotte, NC. Harris’ areas of expertise include conceptual development, financial and business acumen, organizational effectiveness, project management, talent development and strategic vision & planning. Harris graduated from Johnson & Wales University. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & beverage operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support Additional Links: Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com Harris Ader: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harris-ader-161b792/ Senior Dining Association: https://seniordining.org/ | |||
| The Burnt Chef Project | 29 Nov 2022 | 00:29:29 | |
Mental health is hard to talk about in any setting. But especially in the hospitality industry. In a recent survey of 1273 hospitality professionals, 8 out of 10 respondents had experienced mental health issues during their career and 46% would not feel comfortable talk about their health concerns with their colleagues. So how do we address this looming crisis? Enter the The Burnt Chef Project. Launched in May of 2019, The Burnt Chef project was set up with the sole intention of eradicating the mental health stigma in the hospitality industry. Knowing how important this need is, Aaron talks with David Thornton, the lead Ambassador for The Burnt Chef Project in the United States. They talk about David's mental health journey, the mission behind The Burnt Chef Project, and how invaluable it is to address mental health in the hospitality industry. Starting in the hospitality industry 24 years ago in a small brewing company in Wasilla, Alaska at age 14, David Thornton found his passion for the industry. He attended the Scottsdale Culinary Institute Le Cordon Bleu, where he received an Associate’s Degree in the culinary arts. He is a Pro Chef mentor through The Culinary Institute of America and instructs any chance he can at Christian Culinary Academy in Cannon Beach, Oregon. I currently live in Washington and have spent time traveling throughout the Pacific Northwest looking for adventure, places to forage and promoting the beauty of our unique cuisine. Myguests, in many sectors of our industry, have enjoyed the bounty of this seasonal, fresh approach to menu planning. My most uncommon work experience was 400 miles north of the Arctic Circle, serving 1,800 meals a day. Like many Hospitality workers, he has struggled with mental health. As the ambassador for Burnt Chefs in the USA his goal is to work to ensure there is always a safe space to talk and work through the mental struggles we face in our industry. If you need help with your mental health or need to speak to someone, you can text 'HOME' to 741741, or visit https://www.theburntchefproject.com/helpandsupport for additional resources. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & beverage operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support Additional Links: Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com David Thornton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chef-david-thornton/ The Burnt Chef Project: https://www.theburntchefproject.com/ | |||
| Can We Solve the Labor Challenge? | 15 Nov 2022 | 00:27:09 | |
The senior living industry is set for expansive growth in the coming years to meet market demand. But with these great opportunities will come new barriers to capitalizing on them. Especially the barrier of labor. So how do we tackle the ongoing labor challenges? What is the right combination of tools & actions needed to overcome these obstacles? This episode of TFT Aaron tries to sort through where we are and how we can get there by talking to Kate Risa. They talk about the looming labor challenges, and the four things that Kate and her team believe will be actions that any operator can take to ease and overcome what the industry faces as we move into this exciting time of growth. Kate Risa has specialized in the senior living PEO industry for over 10 years and regularly supports clients with analyzing, developing and implementing strategic HR initiatives that support workplace culture, improve employee retention and engagement and drive occupancy. Kate has over 20 years of human resources experience across a variety of industries, holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, a Master’s of Business Degree in Human Resources Management, a Paralegal certification in employment law, and National certificates as a Strategic Human Resources Professional from SHRM (SHRM-SCP) and HRCI (SPHR). She currently is the HR Enterprise Accounts Director focusing on Senior Living for Paychex. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & beverage operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support Additional Links: Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com Kate Risa: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-risa/ Paychex: https://www.paychex.com/ | |||
| It's time to POWER UP! | 08 Nov 2022 | 00:28:54 | |
Do you wish you knew how to build up your team in this post-pandemic environment? Could you use creative ways to elevate mindsets about senior living? Are you ready for tips to better understand mental health and reduce burnout? If you answered “yes” to any of those questions, then this episode of Tips from Trestle is for you! Aaron caught up with Kathy Parry for this episode of TFT to talk about her new book Senior Living Power: Energize & Serve with JOY! They discuss her "Circuit of Power", the light bulbs you need to power each day, as well as helping you identify the important energy sources to "light your light bulbs". It's a great conversation about making sure you are ready to help you and your teams energize. Get ready to explore a circuit of power that will help your organization, your teams and you burn bright! Kathy Parry works with industry leading organizations that want to energize employees in order to BOOST PERFORMANCE, INCREASE RETENTION and IMPROVE STAFF UTILIZATION. Audiences rave about Kathy’s humorous, yet inspirational speaking style. A recognized authority in personal energy and productivity, Kathy uses her passion to ignite positive changes for professional services leaders and early-career associates. Prior to launching her own business Kathy was a trainer for a super-regional bank on their merger and acquisition team. Travel throughout the south implementing training for merger-acquired operations facilities, Kathy developed her own protocol for staying energized and productive on the road.Kathy holds degrees in Business and Food Management from Miami University and a Certification in Plant Based Nutrition as well as a coaching certification. She is the creator of the POWER UP and PERFORM course for senior living professionals and holds the designation of professional speaker from the National Speakers Association. Ms. Parry has authored four books, including her latest book: Senior Living Power: Energize and Serve with JOY. Ms. Parry lives in Ohio where she enjoys a mild dark chocolate addiction and cooking for hungry friends. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & beverage operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support Additional Links: Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com Kathy Parry: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathyparryspeaker/ Senior Living Power: https://amzn.to/3t7Qwqn | |||
| A Visit to Hospitality School | 25 Oct 2022 | 00:54:01 | |
Cultivating and educating the next generation of the hospitality workforce about the benefits and unique opportunities in senior living is something that I truly enjoy and embrace as a responsibility. We have to show the next generation of hospitality leaders that they can and should find their calling in the senior living industry - the only place where they can truly provide #HospitalityWithAPurpose. TFT also sends a big thank you to Karen Byrd for inviting me to lead the discussion for their Management of Senior Living Communities class - one of many of it's kind that we are beginning to see across college campuses as the industry sees the need for these leaders in our ranks. #seniorliving #hospitality #foodandbeverage #thoughtleaders #education Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & beverage operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support Additional Links: Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com | |||
| It's Time to #dinewithdignity | 11 Oct 2022 | 00:37:14 | |
152 Million People. That's the expected number of people around the world that will be experiencing some form of dementia by 2050. A number that will have tripled from current figures in only a couple of decades. So how will we support them, especially with one of the most important activities of daily living - eating? The good news is that there are great resources and experts that can help with this difficult task. And Aaron was able to connect with Toni Fisk to get her insights and expertise on how to make it easier for both the person with dementia, and those that are caring for them. Toni Fisk is a professional speaker, with multiple dementia certifications as educator and trainer, working with professional care partners and family members. She is also skilled as a Teepa Snow PAC® Certified Independent Trainer as well as a Virtual Dementia Tour® Certified Trainer. As a Certified Dietary Manager and vetted senior living dining operations consultant, Toni follows her deep commitment towards education and enlightenment in the care for persons living with dementia. And she shares her expertise in her book #dinewithdignity: Unlocking the Mystery of Dementia & Dining, which is currently available on Amazon. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & beverage operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support Links: Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com Toni Fisk: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonifisk/ DinnerWEARhc, Inc.: https://dinnerwearhc.info/ | |||
| Senior Living Stories: Creating Viral Content That Matters | 04 Nov 2024 | 00:22:12 | |
Recorded live at the recent Georgia Senior Living Association conference, this week’s TFT episode features Nathan Jones, founder of Dash Media, discussing the transformation of senior living perceptions through authentic storytelling and social media. Jones emphasizes the importance of resident-focused content, particularly in showcasing senior living cuisine. He outlines strategies for creating engaging video content and he highlights the significance of authenticity in content creation, the power of food-related stories, and the impact of short-form videos across various social media platforms in changing public perception of senior living communities. Tips from Trestle is sponsored by eMenuChoice & ClarkPro #TFT340 #SeniorLiving #ElderCare #DigitalStorytelling #SocialMediaMarketing #AuthenticContent #SeniorCare #FoodService #SeniorDining #TikTokMarketing #AgingGracefully #RetirementLiving #SeniorWellness #CulinaryExperience #HealthyAging #SeniorLifestyle | |||
| Dining by Design | 04 Oct 2022 | 00:35:38 | |
We all know that we need all of our senses to experience a great meal. Seeing perfect grill marks on a steak, having the smell of garlic & onions hitting you as you walk by an open kitchen, or hearing the sizzle of fajitas as they come to your table - these all enhanced and elevate our dining experience. But what about everything around you that isn‘t on the plate? The atmosphere and ambiance of the physical space where you enjoy these meals also has an impact on how you process the experience. And it is critical when you factor in the factors that come with creating a space that is both communal, home-like, and geared for an older adult. That’s why Aaron spoke with Moria Soden for this Tips from Trestle episode. Moria is the Owner and Principal Designer of 1720 Design Group based out of the greater Dallas/Fort Worth area. She is a Michigan State alumni with a Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design. In 2015 she attained the top-level status of National Certification that all Interior Designer’s strive to achieve, the NCIDQ. With this certification she has the expertise to perform her duties nation-wide that protect public health, safety and welfare. Moria is also a Professional Practitioner for the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) and is a Registered Interior Designer (RID) with the great state of TX. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & beverage operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support Links: Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com Moria Soden: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moria-soden-asid-ncidq-rid-20344718 1720 Design Group: www.1720designgroup.com | |||
| Creating a Winning Kitchen Culture | 27 Sep 2022 | 00:32:25 | |
"That place is TOXIC - don't work there!" If you've been around the hospitality industry, you've heard this before. But the best kitchens with the best culture will be the ones that do culture the right way. That's what I talk with Andrew Moret about on this week's TFT podcast. Andrew has worked in those toxic kitchens, and has seen what it can do to team morale and performance. He has also seen it done right, and has taken his experience to elevate the employee experience for his teams at Oakmont Senior Living. We get into the lessons learned, how to translate that into the right culture, and how instilling and making your leadership team responsible for that not only makes for happy employees, but also has a direct impact on diner satisfaction and the bottom line. Andrew Moret is Vice President of Culinary Services for Oakmont Management Group, the fastest growing premier senior living provider on the west coast. He leads the culinary teams at over 60 communities throughout California and Nevada to provide seasonally curated meals while accommodating individual dietary preferences and needs. By cultivating strong leadership among his team, Andrew elevates the senior living dining experience and advocates for residents to ensure that being a senior is an enjoyable lifestyle and not a diagnosis. Andrew is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America and has over 15 years of leadership experience in all aspects of fine dining and food operations. As Executive Chef, he opened The Trumpet Vine in Simsbury, CT, and he developed a “Food Medicine” program at St. Helena Hospital in St. Helena, CA. Before bringing his knowledge and skills to senior living, He worked in two Michelin starred restaurants in the Napa Valley and as a private chef in the San Francisco Bay area. Extensive training beyond the CIA included the Sichuan Culinary Institute in China and the award-winning 2941 in Washington, D.C. By cultivating strong leadership amongst his team Moret strives to continue to elevate the senior living dining experience and be a driving force in the industry. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & beverage operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support Links: Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com Andrew Moret: www.linkedin.com/in/charles-andrew-moret-aa5a0487/ Oakmont Senior Living: www.oakmontseniorliving.com | |||
| A Daily Dinner Party, You Say... | 20 Sep 2022 | 00:32:17 | |
So it's 5:30, and you have just finished watching the evening news, and you decide that you want to catch up with the latest happenings with your neighbors today. So you head down to the kitchen, where there are people talking and laughing, and giving Chef Joe pointers on the best way to make tonight's meal. You sit down at the counter and chat with everyone as chef puts the final touches on your evening meal. It's a great experience that as been tailored to you and your neighbors. And tomorrow at breakfast, you get to do it all over again. This is just one aspect of the home model that has been created by Loe Hornbuckle with Sage Oak Denton. Their unique model of creating a campus of small residential homes has blended the best of both worlds in senior living - the focused care and support of the residential model, and the efficiencies of a large community. They operate off of a simple philosophy: great care, great food, great communication. And in this episode of TFT, Aaron & Loe take a deeper look at the uniqueness of the model, how food plays a critical role, and how this could be the answer for seniors looking for a different living option. Loe Hornbuckle is the CEO and founder of Sage Oak Assisted Living and Memory Care. Founded in 2015, Sage Oak isn’t just another assisted living company, Sage Oak is “the boutique assisted living company” with 5 locations in Dallas and a total of 40 beds. Sage Oak provides small, intimate, home settings that allow those who need a little extra care to receive the love and dignity that they deserve. Sage Oak also has two ground up boutique assisted living/memory care developments now open in Texas and Louisiana totaling just under 300 beds. Loe also co-Founded GoodHorn Capital, a private equity firm focused on recession resistant assets like multifamily and build to Rent Developments. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & beverage operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support Links: Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com Loe Hornbuckle: www.linkedin.com/in/loe-hornbuckle-76b6aba/ Sage Oak Assisted Living: www.TheSageOak.com Sage Oak Denton: www.TheSageOakDenton.com GoodHornCapital: www.GoodHornCapital.com | |||
| Building Your Hospitality MasterClass | 06 Sep 2022 | 00:33:09 | |
Hire wisely, and onboard & train RELENTLESSLY. This is a motto that host Aaron Fish has used throughout his career to create successful teams that will outperform. And what better way is there than working with the experts and creating your own masterclass to help develop, grow, and retain your best employees? On this episode of TFT, Aaron talks with Greg Gorgone of Pineapple Academy. They discuss the value of continuous learning, what micro-learning is, and how being strategic with implementing it and blending it with your training program can make you stand above the competition for employees and with your customers. Greg Gorgone is the Co-Founder of Pineapple Academy, an online culinary & hospitality training system designed to raise the standards in the industry through training in a cost-effective way so that it is accessible to everyone. By providing knowledge, tools and support for all employees, from entry level staff to senior management, we empower them to create a more consistent and enjoyable experience for their customers, patients and residents. Greg is a graduate and former Chef Instructor of Johnson & Wales University with over 35 years of experience in food service and hospitality management. With a successful track record in the restaurant and hospitality industry, Greg has brought his unique insights and leadership style to the healthcare industry to deliver a more patient centered, culinary driven experience while still keeping careful focus on financial objectives and customer satisfaction scores. For a Free Look at what Pineapple Academy can offer, use this link to register: Free 14-day Trial: Pineapple Academy Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & beverage operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support Links: Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com Greg Gorgone: www.linkedin.com/in/greggorgone/ Pineapple Academy: https://pineappleacademy.com/ | |||
| Bringing Digital to Your F&B Operations | 16 Aug 2022 | 00:30:22 | |
When evaluating your technology needs, many operators tend to overlook their kitchen operations. They will implement a point of sale system for better meal tracking, but typically the tech stops there. But what if it didn't? What would the impact be if you created a digital kitchen? This episode of Tips from Trestle, Aaron visits with Connor Joffe of QSR Automations on the technologies that are available to operators that can not only create a wealth of data to better manage the food service operation, but also create a more efficient flow of service that will improve the quality of work for employees. And the impact on food quality and diner satisfaction can be dramatic. As the Senior Living Business Consultant for QSR Automations, Connor Joffe works with operators in the senior living industry to achieve operational excellence by implementing tools in the front and back of house that simplify workflows, improve food quality, and optimize staffing. Using their ConnectSmart platform allows staff to spend more time on the details and operators to make data-driven decisions that simplify processes while simultaneously improving the experience for the residents at each meal. In addition to his experience with QSR, Connor has worked with several operators as an Executive Director. Being an experienced administrator, he has dealt firsthand with the challenges that occur within a community’s Dining Services department. QSR Automations, headquartered in Louisville, KY, with offices in London, England, is a global food service technology company with a leading, data-driven operational platform – ConnectSmart. The platform includes kitchen automation, guest management, off-premise technology, and predictive analytics – resulting in increased consistency, reduced ticket times, a calmer kitchen, which all ultimately translates into happier residents. The platform can turn any kitchen into a smart successful operation that adapts and thrives in the ever-evolving Senior Living Industry by simplifying workflows enabling operators to make data-driven decisions. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & beverage operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support Links: Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com QSR Automations Website - qsrautomations.com LinkedIn - linkedin.com/company/qsr-automations/mycompany/ Connor Joffe LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/connorjoffeky Email - cjoffe@qsrautomations.com Phone - 502-715-6117 | |||
| Just Two Consultants and a Dish Pit | 02 Aug 2022 | 00:30:28 | |
If you're looking to have a chat with John Herzog about the foodservice industry, it probably wouldn't hurt to start your search in the dish pit. Why? Because not only is there a calming and rewarding aspect to seeing that job through, it's also a great place to start when wanting to win over the F&B team in any operation. Plus there is a lot to learn as an outsider when you set up shop on the back side of that dish window. On this episode of Tips from Trestle, Aaron catches up with John to discuss not just the dish pits, but also the role of the consultant in today's foodservice operations. They discuss supporting transitions, helping an operator create value with their operations, capitalizing on a consultant's experience and unbiased expertise, and the drive that comes with wanting to make every operator a success story all while making real human connections along the way. John Herzog is the Director of Business Development for Don Miller & Associates (aka DM&A) John's background and experience has been cultivated over 25 years of food service experience including holding positions from dishwasher to General Manager in the fine dining arena. From there, John embarked on a healthcare foodservice career in 2008 and was instrumental in process improvement initiatives, kitchen/café renovations, culture change initiatives, sustainability projects, and financial stability as a Food & Nutrition Service Director while overseeing multiple hospital campuses. Once a former client, John joined the team at DM&A in 2017 as a Culinary Success Coach. With DM&A, he has since assumed the roles of Culinary Lead, Project Manager, Interim Director and National Sales Director until his promotion in January 2022 supporting the business development aspects for DM&A. Don Miller & Associates is a full-service consulting firm supporting Healthcare Foodservice, Nutrition, and EVS Transformation across all of North America. The DM&A team consists of highly experienced, internationally recognized coaches, bringing unparalleled knowledge, experience, and training to each client location. DM&A’s Suite of Services supports our clients’ organizational goals in becoming the “Best of the Best” in the areas of culinary prowess, food presentation, creating a culture of customer service, and high patient satisfaction measurement outcomes. The same is true in the environmental services discipline. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & beverage operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support Links: John Herzog: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnherzogdma/ Don Miller & Associates: https://destination10.com/ Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com | |||
| You Promoted the Special Teams Coordinator to Head Coach?!? | 26 Jul 2022 | 00:32:08 | |
Ever heard of this head football coach named Tony Dungy? Of course you have, and he's known for his ability not only to win football games, but to be a quiet and effective leader in AND out of the locker room. And on this week's Tips from Trestle, I got the chance to speak with the co-author of his biography and leadership expert, Nathan Whitaker. I get some amazing backstory on Nathan’s time working with the Super Bowl champion coach, as well as deep dive into how indirect leadership can and should have a significant impact on organizations in the industry. As a diehard football fan (Go Cats!) and student of leadership, this was as much fun as one could have on a podcast. Nathan Whitaker is a motivational speaker, the co-author of eight New York Times best sellers, and a former executive in the National Football League (with a Super Bowl ring). He has spoken to corporations, sports teams, and trade associations across the country and world, including the Miami Dolphins, Duke Business School’s Leadership Symposium, the International School of Bangkok, and has delivered numerous commencement addresses. He holds degrees from Duke University, University of Florida, and Harvard Law School. A two-sport athlete in baseball and football at Duke University, he played for Steve Spurrier on Duke’s most recent ACC Championship football team. After law school, he spent two years as a law clerk for US District Judge William Terrell Hodges, and then entered private practice. In 1998, he joined the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he was responsible for the football operations & budgeting, as well as salary cap and player contract negotiations. In 2001, he went to work for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. In Tampa, he met and worked alongside Tony Dungy, and it was here he earned that Super Bowl ring. Turning his talents to become an author, he helped pen Tony Dungy’s 2007 memoir, Quiet Strength. Since its release, it has become one of the best-selling hardcover sports autobiographies ever, and has over two million copies in print. He also written other books, including: Role of a Lifetime, with James Brown of CBS Sports (2009), Uncommon, with Tony Dungy (2009, #2 NYT Bestseller), The Mentor Leader, with Tony Dungy (2010, #2 NYT Bestseller), Through My Eyes, with Tim Tebow (2011, #6 NYT Bestseller Nonfiction List), and Snap Decision, a novel for teens. Whitaker currently lives in Gainesville, Florida with his wife, Amy, and two daughters, Hannah and Ellie. They have a dog, RickyBobby, and three cats, Hemingway, Fezzik & Scout. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & beverage operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support Links: Nathan Whitaker Website: www.nathanwhitaker.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanwhitaker12/ Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com | |||
| Creating Connections and Planting Seeds | 19 Jul 2022 | 00:23:57 | |
Creating connection is a key aspect of what we do in senior living. But how do we bridge the gap between generations in a way that allows the newest participants in the workforce get a glimpse of how great working in our industry can be? And how can these connections allow for seniors in these communities to continue to feel they have a purpose and can pass along their knowledge and wisdom to a younger generation? On this episode of Tips from Trestle, we visit with Eric & John Peterson. During his time working as a caregiver in senior living, Eric developed a passion for wanting to help create a way to connect high school students with those living in senior communities. We chat about Eric;s experiences in senior living, his desire to create his not-for-profit, and even how a couple of his volunteers have found careers in the industry. Founded by Eric Peterson, Seniors4Seniors started in 2019 and is a nonprofit corporation that enables meaningful connections between students and senior members of our community seeking opportunities to serve one another. John Peterson is a board member and president of the organization, Their goal with Seniors4Seniors is to connect the young with the young at heart. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & beverage operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support Links: Eric Peterson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-peterson-814965b5/ Seniors4Seniors : https://www.seniors4seniors.org/ Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com | |||
| Would You Like to Play A Game? | 12 Jul 2022 | 00:25:36 | |
They say that "necessity is the mother of invention", and this week's Tips From Trestle is very much a story of this being true. This week we visit with Sasha Dawn. During the peak of COVID-19 quarantines in 2020, she experienced what many adult children did - isolation from her parent in care. Her father had fallen and been placed in a skilled nursing facility on the other side of the country. And due to pandemic restrictions, she couldn’t visit. So she did what everyone else did - embrace technology. She tells her experience of seeing her father in a very different light due to these conditions, and knew at that moment that she had to take action. Thus the birth of Utopia Experiences. A resident engagement platform built on virtual live-hosted interactive game show entertainment, Utopia Experiences is focused to serve senior living communities and their residents. It's a journey that you will want to listen to for sure. Sasha Dawn is the Founder & CEO of Utopia Experiences, a SaaS company that brings live virtual hands free game shows to senior communities to connect, engage and delight - while building community and reducing staff burn out, all from one easy to use platform. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & beverage operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support Links: Sasha Dawn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sasha-dawn-b55a385/ Utopia Experiences : https://www.utopiaexperiences.net/ Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com | |||
| Let's Get TECH-nical | 28 Jun 2022 | 00:26:54 | |
The surge of technology needs and vendors in the senior living space has taken off in the past couple of years as operators have been forced to adopt more due to the COVID-19 pandemic. There are many solutions to every aspect of a communities operations, but what processes do they use to evaluate if they will be getting the functionality, service, and support from their vendor of choice? Enter Katie Griffith. Her company Bright Solutions provides unbiased third party support to organizations as they evaluate technology solutions for food & beverage, resident engagement, and all other areas of operations. She has a wealth of experience and a deep knowledge of the selection process, and shares some of her best practices & strategies for listeners who may be in the market for some new technology solutions. Katie Griffith is Founder and Principal at Bright Solutions, a technology consulting firm working exclusively in the senior living industry. Katie has been working in the senior living industry for 20 years and founded Bright Solutions 7 years ago when she saw a need for communities to have an unbiased, third party help them identify the right technology solutions for their organization and create an adoption strategy that produces better results. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & beverage operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support Links: Katie Griffith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrightsolutions/ Bright Solutions: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bright-solutions-kgriffith Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com | |||
| AI's Human Touch | 29 Oct 2024 | 00:25:41 | |
This week’s Tips from Trestle finds Aaron exploring artificial intelligence in senior living Fritz Brumder, CEO of WiseOx. Aaron & Fritz go deep into the transformative potential of AI in senior living. They discuss how AI-powered "mascots" can streamline operations, enhance resident care, and support staff in various roles. The conversation covers the benefits of customized AI assistants, implementation strategies, and addressing concerns about job displacement. The focus of the conversation is about emphasizing that AI aims to augment human capabilities, allowing more time for personalized care. Tips from Trestle is sponsored by eMenuChoice (https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenu) & ClarkPro (https://bit.ly/ClarkPro_TFT) #TFT339 #SeniorLiving #AIinHealthcare #SeniorLivingTech #DigitalCaregiving #AIAssistants #FoodTechInnovation #HealthTechTrends #AIforGoodAging #SeniorLivingInnovation #FutureOfEldercareAI #TechForSeniors #SmartSeniorLiving #AIEmpoweredCare #ArtificalIntelligence #HumanTouch #CX | |||
| It's Time to Integrate, not Balance | 23 Jun 2022 | 00:27:29 | |
We've all have spent countless hours and energy trying to create the right environment for work-life balance. But have we really been successful with it? Have we created a workplace that truly values the challenges that face our front line employees? In this episode of Tips from Trestle, Aaron visits with Milton McGowian about how the theory and practice of creating work/life balance is failing employees and how we need to embrace work/life integration so that we can foster better employee relationships, give them opportunities to be successful in and out of the workplace, and better meet the ever-changing needs of the workforce. Milton McGowian is the Vice President of Resident Services at Sharon Towers at SouthPark in Charlotte, NC. He earned a certification from the National Restaurant Association as a Foodservice Management Professional (FMP) and a certification from the Association of Nutrition and Foodservice Professionals (ANFP) as a CDM, CFPP. Milton is also an alumni fellow for the Larry Minnix Leadership Academy at Leading Age National, and is the Chair for the diversity, equity, and inclusion committee as well as a member of the professional development committee for the Association of Nutrition and Food Service Professionals (ANFP). Milton holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and a Masters of Business Administration from Liberty University. Milton is currently a doctoral candidate at Liberty University, studying Non-profit Leadership and management in Business Administration. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & beverage operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support Links: Milton McGowian: www.linkedin.com/in/milton-l-mcgowian-jr-mba-cdm-cfpp-fmp-mcp-a2298940 Sharon Towers: http://www.sharontowers.org Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com | |||
| Wait...How Many Calories Are in That?!? | 14 Jun 2022 | 00:23:25 | |
They say you are what you eat, but how do you know exactly what you are eating these days? Especially in a senior living community where the balance of nutrition, medication interactions, and multiple palettes must be considered? A glimpse into Menu Transparency in Senior Living is a great place to start. This episode of TFT finds Aaron speaking with Lisa Eberhart about her experience and work around menu transparency, why they believe it is coming for senior living operators whether they are ready or not, and they discuss how to use it to their advantage. Lisa Eberhart is a Registered Dietitian, Licensed Dietitian/Nutritionist, and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Institution Management and Dietetics from Iowa State University. Lisa has over 25 years' experience working as a registered dietitian, 13 of which were full-time with North Carolina State University, where Lisa and her team helped NC State Dining become a leader in nutrition and wellness, excelling in technology, food management systems, and ingredient transparency. Lisa is currently the co-founder of Menu Analytics, a foodservice consulting firm focused on menu development and analysis for a wide variety of operators. With over sixty years of food service experience in restaurants, coffee shops, catering, and large scale dining venues, Menu Analytics is a nutrition and food service consulting service that can help you achieve success by offering you on-demand expertise in nutrition analysis, menu development, business support services, training, and more. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & beverage operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support Links: Lisa Eberhart: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-eberhart-99a14b1b/ Menu Analytics: https://www.menuanalytics.com/ Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com | |||
| Current Dining Trends from Senior Housing News | 07 Jun 2022 | 00:34:13 | |
This week's Tips from Trestle podcast dives deep into the Top Senior Living Dining Trends for 2022. Senior Housing News' Liz Ecker joins Aaron to discuss the findings from her most recent research on the topic. Liz used her research to author a white paper sponsored by SHN and Navigator GPO that was shared at the recent Navigator GPO Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C. where both she and Aaron were speaking. Liz and Aaron discuss her findings, as well as talk about some of the conversations around their presentations back in May. Liz Ecker is Vice President of Branded Content for Aging Media Network, the parent company of Senior Housing News (SHN). SHN is a business-to-business publication covering topics relating to senior housing and care. Liz previously served as editor of Senior Housing News and has reported widely on topics relating to aging and the care continuum including finance, construction and development, operations, technology, health care and dining. Senior Housing News (SHN) is the leading source for news and information covering the senior housing industry. With a national reach of over 30,000 professionals that includes senior housing operators, developers, banking institutions, real estate investment trusts, private equity, and service providers catering to the industry. SHN provides a cutting edge and targeted platform unlike any other publication, giving you the opportunity to reach decision makers every day. Navigator Group Purchasing, Inc.. is the largest and most experienced full-service GPO exclusively focused on senior living. Members gain access to a full range of programs, tools, and services to help them achieve their resident and financial goals. Tips From Trestle is a podcast focused on discussion about senior living food & hospitality. Hosted by Trestle Hospitality Concepts Founder & CEO Aaron Fish, he shares his thoughts, musings and discussions about the food & beverage operations, trends and happenings in the senior living industry. To support the podcast, click here: https://anchor.fm/tips-from-trestle/support Links: Liz Ecker: www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethecker/ Senior Housing News: seniorhousingnews.com Navigator GPO: www.navigatorgpo.com Aaron Fish: www.linkedin.com/in/aaronfish Trestle Hospitality Concepts: www.trestlehospitalityconcepts.com | |||