Podcasts about trestle

In this episode of Tips from Trestle, host Aaron Fish sits down with Chef Alan Velazquez, culinary director at Oaks Senior Living, live from the Georgia Senior Living Association (GSLA) Conference in Savannah. The conversation unpacks what makes independent living dining a fundamentally different — and often underserved — experience in senior care. Chef Alan shares proven strategies for elevating resident dining, including cross-utilization of ingredients, resident-driven menu building through a "Chef's Corner" model, and intentional kitchen design that blurs the line between care levels. He also explores QR code technology for RSVPs, smart revenue reinvestment, and his golden rule: "You can recoup a steak. You can't recoup service." Essential listening for senior living operators, executive chefs, food service directors, and culinary professionals seeking to use dining as a marketing and retention powerhouse.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenuWiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOxBen E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEKAdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrust#TFT505 #SeniorLiving #SeniorDining #IndependentLiving #HospitalityFirst #SeniorLivingFood #ResidentExperience #CulinaryOperations #ActiveAdults #AgingWell #FoodServiceLeadership #SeniorLivingTrends #DiningInnovation #SeniorCareLeadership #FoodAsWellness

Discover how curiosity-driven sales strategies transform senior living communities' closing rates and customer relationships. Jessica Phaup and Kelly Singleton Myers from KJB Sales Consulting reveal proven techniques for senior living sales professionals, including the revolutionary "treasure box" method for gathering prospect information and the counterintuitive power of slowing down to close faster. Learn why replacing clinical jargon with empathetic language creates deeper connections, how leveraging team expertise elevates the sales experience, and why the sales process previews what life will be like in your community. This episode delivers actionable insights for sales directors, community leaders, and hospitality professionals seeking to improve occupancy rates, enhance customer experience, and build lasting relationships in senior housing, assisted living, and memory care environments.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:- eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenu- WiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOx- Ben E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEK- AdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrust#TFT504 #SeniorLiving #AssistedLiving #SalesTips #CustomerExperience #SalesStrategy #Hospitality #MemoryCare #LeadershipDevelopment #SalesTraining #ActiveListening #SeniorHousing #CommunityLiving #SalesCoaching #EmotionalIntelligence #RelationshipSelling

Our second episode on 2026 trends features the operators perspective, as Aaron sits down with John Tolbert, Associate VP of Culinary for Sagora Senior Living, to unpack 2026 food and hospitality trends. They dive into leveraging GPOs and POS technology to fight inflation, cut waste, and boost revenue while still delivering restaurant-quality, home-style comfort food residents love. From personalized menus built on resident preference data to bistros, room service apps, and “high tech, high touch” service models, this conversation shows how modern senior living communities can elevate both experience and efficiency. Aaron and John also explore wellness-focused menu design, “stealth health” recipes, and flavor-forward nutrition that keeps residents happy, healthy, and engaged. It's a must-listen for senior living leaders, culinary directors, and hospitality teams.A special thanks to Ben E Keith Foods for hosting this episode in their corporate recording studio in Fort Worth!Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenuWiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOxBen E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEKAdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrust#TFT503 #SeniorLiving #SeniorLivingDining #FoodAndHospitality #SeniorLivingLeadership #CulinaryInnovation #ResidentExperience #WellnessThroughFood #SeniorDining #HighTechHighTouch #POSforDining #HospitalityMatters #BoomerGeneration #MenuEngineering #GPOstrategy #HealthyComfortFood

This episode of Tips from Trestle explores how senior living communities can transform into a hospitality‑driven engine for wellness, engagement, and revenue. Aaron chats with Sharalene Roper, COO of Ignite Living leader to unpack how independent and assisted living can use intentional design, intergenerational programming, and creative use of space to combat social isolation and drive resident satisfaction. They explore practical strategies like POS systems, robotics in the dining room, always‑available wellness‑focused menus, and flexible “club‑style” grill rooms that elevate senior living foodservice. You'll hear actionable ideas around the eight dimensions of wellness, community partnerships with schools and local government, and how hospitality‑driven design keeps residents happier, healthier, and in your community longer.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenuWiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOxBen E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEKAdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrust#TFT502 #SeniorLiving #SeniorLivingDining #SeniorLivingDesign #ActiveAging #AgingWell #HospitalityDriven #ResidentExperience #DiningExperience #SeniorLivingLeaders #WellnessInAging #IntergenerationalLiving #SeniorCareInnovation #FoodServiceManagement #RetirementLiving #SeniorLivingMarketing

This season 5 premiere of Tips from Trestle features tech-powered aging, dementia care, and senior living innovation taking center stage in this CES 2026 debrief with Carrie Aalberts (aka the Dementia Darling). She and Aaron go deep into what the world's largest tech show reveals about the future of aging, hospitality, and dementia care. They explore how themes like AI, mobility, and digital health are converging with senior living operations, and why leaders can't afford to ignore the rapidly growing longevity economy. Framed as the first of three “trends for the new year” episodes, this conversation shares some great tech to be aware of for 2026, as well as sets the stage for deeper discussions on innovation, collaboration, and how forward-thinking providers can elevate resident and caregiver experiences across the entire continuum of senior care.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenuWiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOxBen E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEKAdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrust#TFT501 #SeniorLiving #AgeTech #DementiaCare #MemoryCare #CaregiverLife #SeniorLivingInnovation #DigitalHealth #AIInHealthcare #SeniorLivingDining #HospitalityMatters #FallsPrevention #BrainHealth #CaregiverSupport #HealthyAging #TipsFromTrestle #DementiaDarling

To earn her own way through theater school in Philadelphia, Tai Ricci bussed tables at one of Stephen Starr's restaurants. With her naturally outgoing personality and drive, she moved up the ranks to become a high-earning server and realized the restaurant business was her true calling.That calling took her to LA and eventually San Francisco, landing at one of Michael Mina's restaurants and meeting up with Ryan Cole and Chef Jason Halverson. Over lunch one day, the three came up with a plan to open their first restaurant. Twelve years later, the partners lead Hi Neighbor Hospitality Group in the San Francisco area and operate five diverse independent restaurants that have become neighborhood favorites.Ricci oversees events and people operations for the group, developing a vibrant team culture that fosters growth and creates a workplace where the next generation of hospitality professionals can thrive. But she also has a keen sense of what diners are seeking in restaurants today, and the group's concepts including Trestle, MAMA Oakland and The Vault Steakhouse deliver on that with their menus, ambience and service.Listen as Ricci shares how her love for hospitality has shaped Hi Neighbor's restaurants into dining destinations admired by guests and team members alike. 

In a perfect re-release to start the new year, let's flashback to Aaron's conversation with Seth Winder, a training specialist at Clark National Accounts, about the critical role of DISC assessments and emotional intelligence (EQ) in team building and development. Seth shares his journey from public education to corporate training, emphasizing the importance of understanding individual tendencies and emotional triggers. The discussion highlights practical applications of assessment tools like DISC and understanding EQ in senior living and foodservice environments, offering insights into improving team dynamics, communication, and overall performance. Seth underscores the value of self-awareness and proactive engagement in fostering a collaborative and efficient workplace culture.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenuWiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOx Ben E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEKAdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrust#TFT326 #EmployeeDevelopment #TeamBuilding #CareerGrowth #LeadershipDevelopment #WorkplaceCulture #EmotionalIntelligence #DISCAssessment #FoodserviceIndustry #SeniorLiving #ProfessionalGrowth #WorkplaceWellness #TeamDynamics #TrainingAndDevelopment #HospitalityManagement #EmployeeEngagement

This year-in-review episode of Tips from Trestle pulls back the curtain on how senior living dining, hospitality, and resident experience evolved in 2025. Host Aaron Fish revisits conversations on dementia-friendly dining, real food and speed-scratch menus, emergency preparedness, and frontline leadership that turns strategy into lived experience in senior living communities. Hear how empathy with intention, work-life integration, and Montessori-inspired engagement reshape memory care and move resident programs far beyond bingo. Explore whether tech – from smarter POS systems to assistive spoons and social robots – truly enhances human connection in the dining room instead of replacing it. Leaders, operators, and culinary pros will walk away with practical ideas to personalize menus, elevate hospitality, reduce isolation, and center resident dignity in 2026 and beyond.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenuWiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOxBen E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEKAdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrust#TFT446 #TipsFromTrestle #SeniorLiving #YearInReview #SeniorLivingDining #SeniorLivingLeadership #ResidentExperience #DementiaCare #MemoryCare #SeniorLivingFood #HospitalityLeadership #AgingServices #SeniorCareInnovation #DiningExperience #FoodAsMedicine #CaregiverSupport #SeniorLivingMarketing #SeniorLivingPodcast

For this holiday week re-release, nutritional wellness is back on the menu in senior living, and this “re-release” with Margaret Roche and host Aaron Fish gives operators a practical, no‑nonsense roadmap for getting it right. we go way back into the archives to unpack what *real* wellness looks like on the plate in senior living communities. Margaret & Aaron break down how to build a clear, evidence-based nutrition philosophy, translate it into menus residents actually love, and create true collaboration between chefs, dining leaders, and dietitians. From the MIND and Mediterranean diets to plant-based options, texture-modified meals, and that irresistible fried chicken, they explore how to balance clinical best practices with soul-satisfying comfort food and resident choice. Perfect for senior living executives, dining directors, and wellness teams who want to improve outcomes, occupancy, and the overall resident experience through smarter, more intentional food and hospitality programmingTips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenuWiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOxBen E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEKAdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrust#TFT445 #TipsFromTrestle #SeniorLiving #AssistedLiving #SeniorLivingFood #SeniorLivingDining #FoodAsMedicine #SeniorNutrition #WellnessPrograms #MINDDiet #MediterraneanDiet #PlantBasedEating #DietitianApproved #CulinaryLeadership #ResidentExperience #ReRelease

In this episode of Tips From Trestle, host Aaron Fish sits down at the Georgia Senior Living Association Conference with senior living expert Jocelyn Schrader to unpack how activity programs can directly drive occupancy and revenue. They explore why a strategic activity calendar is one of the most powerful sales tools in assisted living and independent living, from scheduling tours around high-impact events to renaming generic programs so they resonate with prospects and families. Jocelyn shares how aligning sales, activities, and food & beverage in a “new triad” transforms the resident experience, boosts referrals, and turns residents into the community's best ambassadors. Whether you lead sales, life enrichment, or dining, you will learn practical ways to differentiate your senior living community, improve tour conversions, and market events that truly stand out.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenuWiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOxBen E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEKAdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrust#TFT444 #TipsFromTrestle #SeniorLiving #AssistedLiving #SeniorLivingMarketing #LifeEnrichment #ActivityDirector #SeniorLivingSales #ResidentExperience #SeniorCareLeadership #OccupancyGrowth #DiningAndHospitality #SeniorLivingEvents #TourToMoveIn #EngagedResidents #SeniorLivingPros

With the holidays upon us, Tips from Trestle explores the impacts of seasonal depression, caregiver burnout, and mental health in senior living with therapist and caregiver advocate Stephanie Muskat of Compassion in Caregiving. We explore how seasonal affective disorder impacts both family and professional caregivers supporting residents with dementia, chronic illness, and complex care needs. Stephanie shares practical strategies like SAD lamps, winter outdoor time, mindfulness body scans, and micro self-care moments caregivers can realistically fit into busy days. The conversation tackles emotional exhaustion, fight–flight–freeze responses, and how unresolved childhood patterns shape today's coping skills. Senior living leaders also learn how simple acknowledgment, teamwork, and everyday check-ins create psychologically safe, resilient communities for caregivers and families.You can get more great insights from Stephanie on her podcast Caregiver's Compass, available now on Spotify & Apple Podcasts.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenuWiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOxBen E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEKAdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrust#TFT443 #TipsFromTrestle #SeniorLiving #CaregiverSupport #SeasonalDepression #SADAwareness #MentalHealthMatters #DementiaCare #CaregiverBurnout #SeniorLivingLeaders #HospitalityMatters #MindfulCaregiving #CompassionInCaregiving #ResidentExperience #SeniorCareProfessionals #WellnessInSeniorLiving

In “Metrics With a Human Touch”, Tips from Trestle host Aaron Fish and ECP national sales consultant Loren Odom unpack how smart technology and meaningful data can transform senior living operations while keeping residents at the heart of every decision. They explore how eMAR, EHR, and digital workflows reduce documentation errors, protect licensure, and improve survey readiness, all while giving nurses and frontline teams precious time back for real connection and hospitality-driven care. The conversation dives into medication management metrics, move-in automation, and integrated reporting that support value-based care, better staffing decisions, and stronger stories for owners and investors. Senior living leaders will learn how to turn metrics into actionable insights without losing the warm, high-touch resident experience that defines great communities.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenuWiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOxBen E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEKAdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrust#TFT442 #TipsFromTrestle #SeniorLiving #SeniorLivingLeadership #SeniorLivingTech #SeniorLivingMarketing #SeniorCareInnovation #LongTermCare #AssistedLiving #ResidentExperience #HospitalityInCare #CulinaryExcellence #HealthcareTech #DigitalTransformation #ValueBasedCare #AgeTech

There's a new bridge in town! November ushered in the opening of the South Trestle superstructure spanning between the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel and the Norfolk shoreline. To learn more about the new mega trestle, click on the latest HRBT Tunnel Talk podcast here:

In this holiday week re-release, we look back at Aaron's conversation with Christie Freeze from the ALAA Spring Conference. They discuss how video is transforming the senior living industry and explore the power of authentic video in building trust, boosting occupancy, and nurturing resident loyalty. Christie shares actionable strategies for senior living operators, from using evergreen and personalized videos to reduce no-shows and foster community, to engaging staff and residents in content creation. Learn how simple, unscripted videos can create psychological proximity, enhance the resident experience, and turn leads into lifelong ambassadors. Whether you're a sales director, chef, or activities coordinator, this episode reveals how video can elevate your senior living community's hospitality and care.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenuWiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOxBen E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEKAdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrust#TFT417 #seniorliving #seniorcare #assistedliving #eldercare #customerloyalty #community #hospitality #elevatetheexperience #caregiver #family #wellness #dementia #videoengagement #authenticity #residentexperience

Discover what placement consultants really see during senior living tours in this revealing conversation with Jenny Skis, founder of Premier Senior Solutions. With 25+ years of healthcare expertise, Jenny exposes critical dining red flags that operators miss—from wrinkled linens to empty dining rooms at mealtime. Learn why authentic resident experiences outperform polished brochures, how storytelling builds trust with families, and which culture elements create lasting connections. Jenny shares insider placement strategies, explains why older communities often outperform new construction, and reveals the power of personalized touches. This episode is essential listening for senior living operators, food service directors, and hospitality teams seeking to improve occupancy through genuine resident-centered dining experiences that families can feel during tours.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenuWiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOxBen E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEKAdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrust#TFT440 #SeniorLiving #SeniorLivingDining #SeniorCarePlacement #AssistedLivingTips #HealthcareDining #ResidentExperience #SeniorLivingCulture #FoodServiceManagement #SeniorCareConsultant #ElderCareAdvice #MemoryCareDining #SeniorLivingMarketing #AgingInPlace #SeniorLivingCommunity

This special Veterans Day episode of Tips from Trestle features Navy Petty Officer First Class Michael Lammey, who survived a catastrophic boiler explosion aboard the USS Frank Cable that left him with third-degree burns over 48% of his body. After enduring more than 50 surgeries, Michael transformed his life-altering experience into hope through Folds of Honor's Speakers Bureau, sharing his story to honor fallen service members and educate audiences about military sacrifice. We explore how Folds of Honor has awarded over $340 million in scholarships to families of fallen or disabled military members and first responders since their inception in 2007. The episode also features Marc Mosley from Ben E Keith Foods discussing their eight-year partnership supporting Folds of Honor's mission. Learn how the work Folds of Honor does creates a lasting impact for military & first responder families facing unimaginable challenges and discover ways to support this life-changing organization.​​​To Support Folds of Honor, please check out their website at http://www.foldsofhonor.org/Tips from Trestle is sponsored by: eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenuWiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOxBen E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEKAdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrust#TFT439 #VeteransDay #FoldsOfHonor​​ #MilitaryFamilies​ #VeteranSupport #HonorTheirSacrifice​ #ThankYouVeterans​ #Scholarships​ #SupportOurVeterans​ #MilitaryHeroes​ #VeteransDay2025​

Unlock proven secrets to "Managing from the Middle" in this special episode, recorded live during a recent "Cocktails & Conversations" hosted by Trestle Hospitality. Discover the art of the middle in this insightful episode, as host Aaron Fish welcomes Chrystal Hawley, Regional Director of Operations for Oak Senior Living. Chrystal shares practical strategies for thriving in middle management—balancing expectations from senior leadership with the needs of your frontline team. This episode offers actionable tips for building boundaries, embracing resets, scheduling real downtime, and motivating teams in high-pressure environments. Learn the value of leadership from the center, where communication, collaboration, and culture collide to create lasting impact. Insights for directors, managers, and senior living professionals looking to lead confidently, boost performance, and foster positive workplace culture, this episode reveals secrets to staying resilient and effective, even when caught between competing priorities.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenuWiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOxBen E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEKAdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrust#TFT438 #WorkLifeIntegration #SeniorLiving #HospitalityMatters #TimeManagement #LeadershipLessons #FoodServiceInnovation #MomLife #CaringCommunities #ResidentExperience #CalendarHacks #ResetAndRecharge #BoundariesMatter #WomenInLeadership #StorytellingSuccess #TipsFromTrestle

Something new stirs in the dark... This weekend, The Whispering Woods unveils After Dark, our most haunting tales yet. New Episodes every Saturday and Sunday.High above the woods of eastern Louisville stands the Pope Lick Trestle, an active railway bridge with a terrifying reputation. For decades, locals have whispered about the Pope Lick Monster - a half-man, half-goat creature said to hypnotize trespassers and lure them to their deaths. The site has claimed numerous lives, each one tangled in the legend's long shadow. In this episode, we explore the chilling folklore, its origins, and the tragic fatalities that gave an urban myth a body count.The BOOKBY US A COFFEESubscribe to our PATREONEMAIL us your storiesJoin us on INSTAGRAMJoin us on TWITTERJoin us on FACEBOOKVisit our WEBSITEResearch:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pope_Lick_Monsterhttps://www.wdrb.com/in-depth/legend-and-loss-at-the-pope-lick-trestle/article_76a6c0be-9373-11ed-b06b-cb4c71fe25b9.htmlhttps://www.courier-journal.com/story/news/local/2019/07/03/pope-lick-trestle-legend-has-claimed-lives-in-louisville/1626600001https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/kentucky/pope-lick-goatman-kyhttps://www.wave3.com/story/31505416/why-are-people-still-climbing-pope-lick-trestlehttps://www.atlasobscura.com/places/pope-lick-monster-legend-kentuckyThanks so much for listening, and I'll catch up with you again tomorrow.Sarah xx"Spacial Winds," Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licenced under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licencehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/SURVEY Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Aaron as he interviews Sara Mitchell, co-founder and president of Solinity Marketing, in this essential re-release examining how senior living communities can leverage culinary programs for enhanced marketing impact. Originally aired February 2025, this episode reveals proven strategies for transforming dining experiences into authentic storytelling opportunities that drive occupancy and resident satisfaction.Sara shares her unique journey from ESPN sports reporter to senior living marketing expert, sparked by her work with legendary coach Pat Summitt during her battle with early-onset dementia. Discover how communities can capture authentic resident testimonials, create compelling video content using simple iPhone techniques, and integrate culinary excellence across sales, marketing, and activities departments. This episode provides actionable insights for marketing directors, executive chefs, and senior living operators seeking to maximize their dining programs' promotional potential through resident-driven storytelling, strategic social media integration, and cross-departmental collaboration that converts prospects into residentsTips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenuWiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOxBen E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEKAdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrust#TFT405 #Rerelease #SeniorLiving #CulinaryExcellence #FoodAndHospitality #Marketing #DiningExperience #Storytelling #ResidentVoices #CommunityConnections #FoodMemories #HospitalityMatters #Branding #SeniorLivingMarketing #SeniorLivingCommunity

Tune in to discover how community-first leadership transforms organizational culture and drives measurable business results in this episode of Tips from Trestle! Aaron interviews Chris Catania, community leadership expert and author, who reveals how his proven frameworks can help scale authentic connections across multi-location senior living operations. Learn how Fortune 500 companies leverage community building to increase employee retention, reduce social isolation among seniors, and generate millions in cost savings through strategic relationship management. Listen to Chris's actionable strategies for measuring community ROI, breaking down departmental silos, and implementing both digital and in-person community programs that enhance the resident experience while strengthening bottom-line performance. This conversation proves why soft skills are essential business strategies for modern senior living operators managing multiple communities.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenuWiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOxBen E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEKAdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrust#TFT435 #SeniorLiving #TipsFromTrestle #SeniorLiving #CommunityBuilding #LeadershipDevelopment #SeniorCare #AssistedLiving #HealthcareLeadership #ResidentEngagement #CommunityFirst #EmployeeRetention #SocialIsolation #SeniorWellness #HospitalityIndustry #OrganizationalCulture #BusinessStrategy #AuthenticLeadership

As we grow and develop, we know we have to crawl be fore we can run. And on this episode of Tips form Trestle, we sprint into the details on how to successfully implement senior living technology with Jenn Kent's proven "crawl, walk, run" methodology. As Director of Project Management at Harmony Senior Services, Jen transformed 45 communities from manual paper processes to seamless digital dining operations using eMenuChoice point-of-sale systems. Learn her seven essential steps for technology implementation success, including creating custom playbooks, role-based training approaches, and cross-departmental accountability strategies. This episode reveals practical insights for senior living operators navigating digital transformation, featuring actionable advice on hardware preparation, staff training methodologies, and ongoing system support to drive resident satisfaction and operational efficiency.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenuWiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOxBen E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEKAdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrust#TFT434 #SeniorLiving #TipsFromTrestle #TechImplementation #DigitalTransformation #SeniorCare #AssistedLiving #HealthTech #SeniorDining #HospitalityTech #ProjectManagement #ElderCare #SeniorLivingTech #AgeTech #CareInnovation #HealthyAging #ResidentExperience

On this bright episode of Tips from Trestle, learn how United Group of Companies illuminates active adult living through their trademarked SUN® Program. Join Aaron as he explores resident engagement with VP of Sales Francine Bass and VP of Lifestyle Joanne DiMarco, who reveal how thoughtful programming transforms communities from apartments into thriving lifestyle destinations.Learn how the SUN® Program combats social isolation among seniors, turning health risks into opportunities for connection and joy. The dynamic duo shares how their 7 Core Lifestyle Concepts and unreasonable hospitality principles create monthly activities that residents actually want to participate in—generating remarkable retention rates and extended stays that outshine industry standards.From resident-led cooking adventures to staff-supported educational journeys, see how personalized programming creates authentic community connections that money can't buy. Plus, uncover proven tactics for leveraging social media storytelling, video marketing, and referral-generating events that attract prospects in the expanding baby boomer market. This episode proves that when you sell lifestyle instead of square footage, everyone wins.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenuWiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOxBen E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEKAdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrust#TFT433 #SeniorLiving #ActiveAdultLiving #SeniorLifestyle #BabyBoomers #WellnessCommunity #SocialIsolation #55PlusCommunity #SeniorWellness #ActiveLiving #CommunityConnection #LifestyleProgramming #RetirementGoals #HealthyAging #SeniorLivingInnovation #ResidentEngagement #MindfulSeniorLiving

Ready to explore the OG culinary hack for your kitchen? Discover how speed scratch cooking transforms senior living food service operations with culinary expert Cody Middleton from Ben E Keith Foods. This essential Tips from Trestle episode explores practical solutions for labor challenges, cost management, and food safety in senior living kitchens. Learn why speed scratch techniques help small communities deliver restaurant-quality meals while maintaining tight budgets and limited staff. Middleton shares proven strategies for implementing ready-to-use products, reducing food waste, improving resident satisfaction, and enhancing staff quality of life. Perfect for senior living executives, food service directors, and culinary professionals seeking actionable insights on modern kitchen operations, menu planning, and operational efficiency. Host Aaron Fish guides this deep-dive conversation covering everything from financial analysis to staff training, making complex culinary concepts accessible for non-food service managers in today's challenging senior care environment.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenuWiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOxBen E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEKAdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrustConnect with Cody: pcmiddleton@benekeith.com#TFT432 #SeniorLiving #ChefDriven #FoodService #CulinaryExcellence #SeniorCare #AssistedLiving #KitchenEffiency #MenuPlanning #FoodSafety #Healthcare #ElderCare #Hospitality #CommunityDining #LongTermCare #AgingInPlace #SeniorWellness

Discover how exceptional hospitality transforms senior living dining in this essential Tips from Trestle episode. Host Aaron Fish interviews Shawn McGregor, Senior Executive Chef at Healthcare Services Group, who oversees culinary operations for over 2,000 kitchens nationwide. Learn proven strategies for staff training, showtime cooking engagement, and managing dietary restrictions in senior care. Sean shares powerful resident connection stories and reveals why getting chefs out of the kitchen creates unforgettable experiences for prospects and residents alike. This episode provides actionable insights for senior living operators, executive chefs, and marketing directors on leveraging food service as a powerful sales and engagement tool. Topics include kitchen tours, resident satisfaction surveys, clinically-driven menus, and creating authentic hospitality moments that drive occupancy and retention in today's competitive senior living market.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenuWiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOxBen E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEKAdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrust#TFT431 #SeniorLiving #ChefDriven #HospitalityExperience #SeniorCare #FoodServiceInnovation #CulinaryWellness #ResidentEngagement #AssistedLiving #HealthyAging #CommunityDining #ElderCare #SeniorLivingMarketing #ShowtimeCooking #DiningExperience #SeniorNutrition

We're bringing back this fan-favorite episode of Tips from Trestle as we're thrilled to announce our exciting new partnership with Zinnia TV! Join Aaron as he sits down with Allyson Schrier, co-founder and president of Zinnia TV, in this transformative conversation about revolutionizing dementia care through innovative streaming technology.Discover how Allyson's personal caregiving journey sparked the creation of research-driven, plot-free video content that's changing lives in senior living communities worldwide. Learn about Zinnia's proven ability to reduce agitation, foster meaningful reminiscence, and empower both professional and family caregivers with powerful connection tools.This re-release comes at the perfect time as Trestle Hospitality Concepts partners with Zinnia TV to bring this groundbreaking dementia-friendly innovation to our clients via our Fractional Director of Resident Engagement program! Hear the science, stories, and research behind this unique streaming service that's earning recognition from major institutions and transforming quality of life for people living with dementia.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenuWiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOxBen E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEKAdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrust#TFT421 #DementiaCare #SeniorLiving #MemoryCare #TechForGood #CaregiverSupport #AgingInnovation #DigitalHealth #SeniorWellness #HealthcarePodcast #LongTermCare #DementiaAwareness #FoodService #HospitalityIndustry #CareTech #InnovativeCare

Journey into the heart of Kentucky's most terrifying legend with this comprehensive exploration of the Pope Lick Monster, a cryptid that has haunted Louisville for over eight decades.This ten-thousand-word narrative traces the evolution of a local legend that refuses to remain merely legendary, examining documented encounters, mysterious deaths, and the increasingly disturbing pattern of events surrounding the Norfolk Southern Railway trestle that spans Pope Lick Creek.Our investigation begins in the 1940s with the first recorded sightings of a creature that defies biological explanation—a seven-foot-tall hybrid of man and goat that stalks the shadows beneath the railroad bridge. Through meticulous research of historical records, witness testimonies, and investigative reports, we explore how what started as whispered folklore has evolved into something far more complex and terrifying. The narrative examines multiple origin theories, from a circus train disaster in the early 1900s to the curse of a Depression-era sheep herder, each attempting to explain the impossible existence of this creature.The story takes a dark turn as we document the deaths and disappearances associated with the trestle, including the tragic fate of teenagers who dared to cross the bridge, the mysterious three-day disappearance of university student Jennifer Walsh in 1984, and the recent vanishing of seventeen people in 2024. We analyze the disturbing pattern that emerges from these incidents, particularly the reports of victims being "called" or "invited" by the creature through dreams and visions.Special attention is given to the scientific investigations that have attempted to understand the phenomenon, including Dr. Lawrence Kingston's 1968 expedition that recorded unexplained acoustic anomalies and hormonal markers, and the 2008 University of Kentucky study that discovered pre-Columbian cave paintings depicting the creature beneath the trestle. The narrative also explores the controversial DNA evidence collected from the caves that shows markers from both human and caprine sources, along with genetic sequences that match no known terrestrial life form.The digital age has brought new dimensions to the Pope Lick Monster phenomenon, from the 2018 mass sighting witnessed by over 300 Louisville residents to the final livestream of paranormal investigator Derek Matthews, who jumped from the trestle while fifty thousand viewers watched in horror. We examine how the creature appears to be adapting to modern technology, including reports of it mimicking human voices in phone calls and learning from social media content posted by its victims.Four primary theories are explored to explain the creature's existence. The interdimensional hypothesis suggests the monster is a visitor from a parallel dimension, manifesting at a weak point between worlds. The genetic experiment theory points to classified military documents referencing "Operation Chimera" and escaped specimens from caprine-human hybridization trials in the 1940s.The tulpa theory proposes the creature is a manifestation of collective human fear and belief, while the ancient entity theory, supported by indigenous oral traditions and pre-Columbian artifacts, suggests something far older and more terrifying has dwelt in this area since before recorded history.Recent developments have attracted federal attention, with a joint task force comprising the FBI, CDC, and Department of Defense establishing operations in Louisville in 2024. Leaked documents suggest the government has been monitoring "Biological Anomaly PL-1" since 1953, with multiple failed attempts to capture or eliminate the entity.The escalating situation, including seventeen missing persons in 2024 alone, has raised concerns about what investigators cryptically refer to as "potential multiplication events."The narrative draws from over eighty years of documented encounters, newspaper accounts, police reports, and witness testimonies to construct the most comprehensive examination of the Pope Lick Monster phenomenon ever assembled.From the creature's evolution from local folklore to its current status as an active federal investigation, we trace how a legend has become a terrifying reality for the people of Louisville.This is not merely a collection of ghost stories or urban legends, but a serious examination of one of America's most persistent and disturbing cryptid phenomena. The Pope Lick Railroad Trestle remains an active railway bridge where multiple people have died in recent years, and the area is now under federal investigation.Whether the Pope Lick Monster is an interdimensional being, a genetic experiment gone wrong, a manifestation of collective fear, or something beyond our current understanding, the evidence suggests that the phenomenon is real, it's escalating, and according to those who claim to know, something significant is coming.The narrative serves both as a historical document and a warning. As reports of encounters increase and the creature's behavior becomes more aggressive and purposeful, the question is no longer whether the Pope Lick Monster exists, but rather what it wants and whether we're prepared for whatever it's planning. The caves beneath the trestle echo with prophecies written in multiple languages, all carrying the same chilling message about bringing others in exchange for being spared. The monster that once lurked in local legend has become something far more dangerous, and its story is far from over.Listen to the locals. Heed the warnings. Stay away from the trestle. Some mysteries are better left unsolved, and some bridges should never be crossed.

Discover the hidden gaps destroying memory care programs in this essential Tips from Trestle episode featuring Dawn Platt, National Director of Memory Care Programs for Discovery Senior Living. Aaron Fish explores how operators can transform their dementia care approach using data analytics, micro-training strategies, and family engagement techniques across 180+ communities nationwide. Learn why traditional memory care programs fail modern residents, how to measure engagement and behavioral patterns, and practical steps for implementing personalized care plans. Dawn shares her proven methodology for reducing incidents, improving staff retention, and creating meaningful resident experiences through her award-winning podcast "The Disappearing Mind." Essential listening for senior living executives, memory care directors, and healthcare professionals seeking evidence-based solutions for dementia care excellence, staff empowerment, and family satisfaction in today's evolving senior living landscape.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenuWiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOxBen E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEKAdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrust#TFT429 #SeniorLiving #MemoryCare #DementiaCare #SeniorCare #AssistedLiving #ElderCare #CaregiverSupport #DementiaAwareness #HealthcarePodcast #SeniorWellness #CommunitySupport #MentalHealthAwareness #AgingInPlace #LongTermCare #HospitalityMatters

Join Aaron this week as he interviews Bonnie Brindle - "The Anxiety Avenger," on managing anxiety in senior living communities. This essential episode explores practical strategies for helping seniors navigate challenging transitions while supporting overwhelmed caregivers and staff. Brindle, author of "Cracking The Crazy Maker's Code," shares evidence-based techniques for creating calmer community environments and reducing workplace stress. Discover how to identify early anxiety warning signs, improve staff wellbeing, and foster positive energy throughout your senior care facility. Perfect for administrators, caregivers, family members, and hospitality professionals seeking actionable mental health solutions in senior living settings. Learn transformational strategies that enhance resident experiences while preventing caregiver burnout in today's demanding healthcare landscape.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenuWiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOxBen E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEKAdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrustGet Bonnie's Resources:Her Book: https://amzn.to/45FPh4uSoaring Seniors Sourcebook: A Superhero's Guide to Mental, Physical, and Social Wellness...for Seniors 60+: https://www.bonniebrindle.com/tireswingseniors#TFT428 #SeniorLiving #SeniorCare #MentalHealthAwareness #AnxietyAwareness #Caregiving #Caregiver #AssistedLiving #ElderCare #MentalHealthMatters #SeniorWellness #HealthcareWorkers #CommunitySupport #MentalHealthSupport #SeniorTransitions #HospitalityMatters

Greetings from the East,The individuality of a person needs no bounds, living life without considering the opposing factors that pull us down is the only way to get some meaning out of it. All worthy men who are respected today lived a simple life, which is why they are respected and followed today. They saw adversity in the eye without losing their self-control, to be part of the superficial vices of life. The yield comes naturally when the times strike rich as spring follows winter. Liberation is the ultimate value we experience while passing through struggles and troubles without compromising our ways. Freemasonry gives those options to use freedom of life in a disciplined mindset to maintain success by controlling their passions and desires. Freemasonry never looks for perfect human beings but to make them better. Often shrouded in mystery "I Own the Yield" holds significance on personal responsibility, courage, growth, and the pursuit of wisdom. The virtue of brotherly love perpetuates the timeless ideals of fraternity.Nature had it all we loved and owned merged into nature againThe lodge has seen another fine degree through the members of the fraternity. Newly initiated Brother Brandon Layman was honored by a traveling Brother Wfl. Aaron Reddoch who happened to visit across town and presided over the function. We saw some brothers that rarely came by exhibiting the fraternal spirit of Freemasonry. We also had a rainy March culminating into April with a relief that nature's bounty unloads and allows us to enjoy once again the beauty and true expression of flora and fauna coming out to bloom. Once again we take from the lodge that ownership of self, yield of knowledge, stewardship of virtue, and cultivation of brotherhood. Something deep down always asks when all is gone what is left is Love and the reason to prepare for the next occasion to mingle and cultivate the joy of sharing and giving. This constant process of self-yield gives the pride and joy of being a Freemason.Shivam Sharma, HA2024 Master

According to recent research, social isolation is considered more dangerous than smoking a pack of cigarettes a day. For seniors, social isolation stands out because it amplifies multiple other health risks simultaneously. Unlike single-condition risk factors, social isolation creates a cascade effect that impacts both physical and mental health outcomes.In this compelling episode of Tips from Trestle shows how cutting-edge technology is revolutionizing how senior living communities are combating social isolation. Aaron discusses this and more with Josh Harris, National Sales Director at AccuShield, sharing about their groundbreaking Love Meter project—an innovative visitor management system that uses data analytics to identify at-risk residents experiencing social isolation and depression. Learn how this technology transforms senior care by tracking visitor patterns, matching volunteers with residents based on shared interests, and improving staff retention through meaningful engagement opportunities.Explore the future of value-based care in senior living, the integration of behavioral health into the senior living model, and practical solutions for enhancing resident wellbeing through data-driven insights and community connections.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenuWiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOxBen E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEKAdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrust#TFT427 #SeniorLiving #ProjectLoveMeter #CareCommunity #ResilientLeadership #ResidentSafety #ResidentEngagement #LongTermCare #HealthCareHeroes #SeniorLivingTech #SocialIsolation #SeniorCare #HealthTech #DigitalHealth #ValueBasedCare #TipsFromTrestle #NewEpisode #MentalHealthMatters #AgeInPlace

Greetings from the East,The unwavering loyalty of a candidate that is priceless to freemasonry is not built in a moment, it develops over time as he knocks at the door of the oldest fraternity and passes through the vital passages to transform into a fine man whose purity of intention and virtue of love wins him acceptance in different walks of life. Vitamin D3 from sunlight also hits the cholesterol in the skin and passes through the liver and then through the kidneys and forms a hormone we know as Vitamin D. It makes the body stronger and boosts immunity to develop into an efficient engine. The lodge is like a body that waits and watches along the recesses of time when the projection of a new and incoming leader wants his transition into a better person. This eventually makes the Lodge's skeletal structure stronger like Vitamin D and makes it more dependable that resists internal and external stresses. The summer event set up in June for the Renaissance Faire as a group will be an awesome example. Welcome Sunshine!I may not be worthy of you, watch me wait with interestMany candidates have been waiting with interest, we picked the diligent ones and watched their curiosity in the examination and frequent visits to help out with chores. Mohammad Ali, a native of Pakistan mesmerized all of us with his cooking, we finally gave him the first degree the week after the Stated Meeting which was my first degree as the sitting master. Yours truly was born in India whose rich culture dominated the communal and regional divisions, and freemasonry's ethics of global brotherhood worked to top it off. In Freemasonry, we go beyond the political divides and still hold on to our principles of friendship and brotherly love no matter what. The 3rd degree for Joe Edwards was no small fete, it happened on a leap day and at least 4 lodges attended the ceremony. Infinity can't be measured only added to what our lodge members do with their punctual presence and unfettered joy of service that beseeches us to say Welcome Sunshine!Shivam Sharma, HA2024 Master

This episode of Tips from Trestle is an exploration of emergency preparedness for senior living communities, focusing on food service and disaster planning. Aaron takes over the Ben E Keith studios and welcomes in industry veterans Lenny Raymond and Joyce Lamilla, who share firsthand experiences from Hurricane Katrina and major ice storms, revealing how critical pre-planning, culture, and communication are when disaster strikes. Learn how to customize emergency menus, calculate essential supplies like water, and ensure staff and residents are well cared for during crises. With insights on distributor-operator partnerships and real-world disaster scenarios, this podcast delivers actionable tips for senior living leaders to improve their emergency response plans, maximize resident safety, and maintain high-quality hospitality—even in the harshest conditions.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by: - eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenu - WiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOx - Ben E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEK - AdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrust#TFT426 #SeniorLiving #EmergencyPreparedness #FoodService #DisasterPlanning #HospitalityHeroes #CrisisManagement #SeniorDining #CareCommunity #ResilientLeadership #MenuPlanning #StaffWellbeing #ResidentSafety #DistributionChallenges #LongTermCare #HealthCareHeroes

Greetings from the East,Awaited still, eagerness persists causing the winter as an endless pursuit, humanity suffers in anticipation & want of new possibilities of nature's renewal. Such was a dream of a fellow Freemason Alessandro Volta, an Italian physicist who invented the battery in the year 1800. We are looking at a finer measure of using bio-degradable electrodes in modern battery and mobile charging methods not limited to the piezoelectric effect where energy is produced just by mechanical pressure on elements which we were studying in the 1900s. Dismal is the fortune of our generations that we look for a higher conduit after sunset to renew our digital lives, and charge our device battery; oh so essential. Freemasons are seekers who spread the findings for everyone's use free of cost. The phenomenon of sending a packet of electric charge as a wifi or LED-based LIFI signal must be one of such freebies that humans can use to free themselves. Wires or no wires, nomads will turn into decent travelers where there will be no crime or theft. Eagerness persists, while it is still awaited.In the long run, the sword is always beaten by the mind - Napoleon Bonaparte (a Freemason)With the budget already presented, the accounting books are being delved into for taxes and general upkeep of the official matters in full swing. What do we do without Brother Secretary & Treasure is all we judge ourselves against. No wonder they are gearing ahead for their retreat before we plan to settle for youth orders month of March. We have already started practicing for degrees and our brothers are wholeheartedly joining in full swing by pleasuring the food prepared by our chef Ali every Thursday who is a prospect and helping around where he can. The monthly checks on brothers accepting new roles in the future are going on along with their proficiency & certifications for the next degrees and roles. However most couldn't make it but so far about 4 brothers might be going to our masonic cruise scheduled for a Mexican getaway on the 26th of Jan, 2024. Once we are back in time for the next stated meeting in February, gearing ahead for at least 3 proficiencies and an influx of degrees our hearts and minds will Masonically say in unison, is it spring already?Shivam Sharma, HA2024 Master

Ready to help your senior living community get ahead of the wellness curve? In this lively episode, Aaron sits down with Brenda Davis, a top plant-based dietitian and international speaker, to unpack how plant-powered eating is transforming senior health. Dive into real-life stories of dramatic turnarounds, practical tips for making menus more plant-forward, and actionable advice for culinary teams looking to please even the most skeptical eaters. Brenda reveals the surprising science behind plant-based nutrition for older adults, how it supports longevity, cognitive function, and reduces the need for multiple medications. Whether you're a senior living operator, dietitian, chef, or family member, you'll gain expert insights on boosting satisfaction, cutting costs, and future-proofing dining programs by embracing the plant-based movement. Discover how delicious food can fuel vibrant lives and happier communities!Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenuWiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOxBen E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEKAdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrust#TFT423 #SeniorLiving #HealthyAging #PlantBasedDiet #SeniorNutrition #PlantPoweredSeniors #AgingWell #WellnessForSeniors #EatMorePlants #SeniorDining #VegetarianSeniors #AgelessNutrition #LongevityLifestyle #SeniorHealthCare #PlantForward #CulinaryWellness

Greetings from the East,Deflagration results from the partial burning of fuel at subsonic speeds inside an IC engine eventually giving rise to the knocking and damage to the cylinder. The size of a cylinder with a bore-to-stroke ratio is kept in check to reduce such partial combustion. Such a small variant can cause innumerable diseases in the air and can be a chief source of air pollution. Modern science speculates numerous way-outs and postulates scientific theories from time to time to reduce this combustion defect from moving motor engines. H2O is a combination of 2 hydrogen atoms and 1 oxygen atom. Hydrogen can be extracted and hydroxyl ions can be safely discarded. This way water can be the combustion source rather than an extinguishing agent of fire. Sounds funny but by burning hydrogen itself we can reduce emissions as hydrogen burns itself whereas oxygen helps in burning any fuel may it be wood, charcoal, or fossil fuel.Gods are the happiest when the children are at playIn our society, right from brushing our teeth in the morning to not wearing dirty clothes, we are taught to remain clean. This impactful behavior can be exercised time and time again by rightfully washing our hands each time we touch something unhygienic. Let us start the new masonic year of 2024 by washing our hands top, bottom, and between the knuckles, as scientific study has suggested, this basic habit can ward off the majority of bacterial and virus threats. We intend to have a safe year ahead and possibly wait to hear how we can use water as a fuel. Sounds funny, most inventions were that way. Electric flights with charging done wirelessly can and will be the target to keep our plant happy. Rain or shine we will keep on making new Master Masons, regardless.Shivam Sharma, HAMaster

Tune in to hear how Presbyterian Homes and Services revolutionized their 47-community senior living operation with point-of-sale technology. Aaron interviews Mary Kieffer, traveling nutrition and culinary director, who shares insider insights on implementing comprehensive POS systems across multiple senior care levels. Learn how integrated technology solutions enhance resident safety through EHR connections, streamlining manual processes, and expand beyond dining to salon services, fitness programs, and family engagement portals. This episode reveals practical strategies for senior living operators seeking operational efficiency, revenue optimization, and improved resident experiences through technology integration. Mary provides actionable advice on cross-departmental collaboration, staff training, and leveraging data analytics for better resident care outcomes in today's competitive senior living marketplace.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoice: https://bit.ly/TFT_eMenuWiseOx: https://bit.ly/TFT_WiseOxBen E Keith Foods: https://bit.ly/TFT_BEKAdvantageTrust GPO: https://bit.ly/TFTAdvTrust#TFT424 #SeniorLiving #HealthcareTech #PointOfSale #SeniorCare #AssistedLiving #HealthcareInnovation #ElderCare #DigitalHealth #ResidentExperience #CommunityDining #SeniorServices #HealthTech #CaregiverSupport #HospitalityTech #SeniorWellness

Greetings from the EastThe world is shattered by war. Who can hide from it? Even those of us fortunate to be at a safe distance from its horrors and depravity, still share in some part the gut-wrenching misery and devastation, if only in the understanding of how it fractures and damages civil, moral and peaceful humanity. Apart from its rationale, war is also hard to contain. It can, and has pulled nations into its indiscriminate death spiral, claiming millions of innocent lives.Our early modern Freemasonry traces its roots into the mid-1600s, where in the aftermath of the English Civil War (and other European conflicts) opposing sides were repulsed and shocked at the magnitude of the raging violence, meted out against their fellow countrymen. Essentially, it is here in this moment, certain historically notable men came together, as brothers, and formed a nucleus for a new, intellectual and private society, where the discussion of religion and politics would be diminished and replaced with the search for truth in nature. Such began the greatest advance in the history of the world.And it is also here, where we see a nascent scientific awakening, that will characterize The Enlightenment, guided by a reverential religious philosophy that begins to form the early structure of our Freemasonry. The call to a brotherhood founded on the principles that make men better through friendship and mutual affection, despite their differences, was also almost certainly established here. Such a new brotherhood was based on a higher call that meant advancements in learning, together with civility and decency as guidance, that would displace the wrangling over politics and religion— the twin causes for sharp differences in opinion among people.Who can best work and best agree, other than men who truly see themselves as brothers? To discover what works for the best of all in consensus: This is the Call. Being united in the understanding that morality and its offspring of justice, civility and innocence, can only be sustained when men pursue higher aims, being part of a universal Brotherhood of Good, under the fatherhood of God!John McCargar, HA, 32°

Tips from Trestle sat down this week with Chef Matthew Thompson, Chief Culinary Officer at Restaura, to discuss the creation of new culinary and hospitality standards for senior living communities. Learn about the partnership with the International Council on Active Aging, the five core domains of excellence, and the innovative Plate of Distinction program. Chef Thompson shares insights on culinary inclusivity, wellness-driven nutrition, and the importance of hospitality in resident satisfaction. This episode is a must-listen for senior living professionals, culinary leaders, and anyone interested in the future of food, wellness, and community engagement in senior care.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoiceWiseOxBen E Keith FoodsAdvantageTrust GPO#TFT423 #SeniorLiving #CulinaryExcellence #HealthyAging #Hospitality #Wellness #ActiveAging #FoodInnovation #SeniorDining #DiningExperience #MenuDevelopment #SustainableDining #CommunityEngagement #ResidentSatisfaction #FoodService #AgingWell

Greetings from the EastSocial connection, in-person, has always been and will always be a basic human need. It cannot be overstated how important it is that we meet with others to personally exchange and engage, and to have places where we can assemble and establish relationships and friendships. This also involves shared activities and other necessary aspects of life such as involvement in worthy projects, recreation and culturally significant events, and even those for charitable purposes.Freemasonry provides one of the greatest social environments ever devised, as suggested above; this we already know. The Craft manages to fuse together so many features of personal enrichment that a man cannot help but be increased in his unique capacities, if followed, across the board. Attending to that is a built-in mystique and prestige that is attached to our “world-class logo” of square and compass, where we can find an impressive motive for men to join. We did.So what is our future as we look across younger demographic groups that eschew the traditional “legacy institutions” of the past, ours included? While Freemasonry appears to be spreading again, there are many who want nothing to do with organized charitable or social institutions, either secular or religious; a travesty. This also happened in the boomer generation. Yet Solomon's Staircase needs the younger man to come and join, and in respectable numbers; for their benefit and ours. Perhaps like other times in history when crises abounded, an awakening ensued as to what was needed to advance or inculcate serious values wrenched from upheavals, while restoring memories of ethical greatness reached in prior epochs. Society today is fractured with some segments having been divided into competing and seemingly disoriented or profane factions. The outcome of conflict is evident. Such is difficult to change. Let's hope this leads the quiet and thoughtful good man to come and seek us, and join in our efforts to perpetuate our sublime and gentle Craft of enlightenment. We need to be openly promoting our “benefits” to the right prospects.Grand Lodge has recently implemented a prospect gathering program that successfully offers an “advisor” by telephone, to inform and guide the caller to local lodges. It appears to be working.John McCargar, HA, 32°Master

Discover how empathy is transforming leadership in senior living on this episode of Tips from Trestle. Host Aaron Fish welcomes Joseph Cope, “The Empathy Guy,” to break down the actionable CARGO Model for building genuine human connection and accountability in senior living communities. Learn the difference between empathy and sympathy, why empathy is a measurable business skill, and how leaders can foster a culture that improves retention, resident experience, and staff satisfaction. Packed with practical advice for culinary directors, executive directors, and all senior care professionals, this episode is your guide to creating a thriving, people-centered workplace in the evolving world of senior living food and hospitality.Click here for Joseph's CARGO Empathy FrameworkTips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoiceWiseOxBen E Keith FoodsAdvantageTrust GPO#TFT422 #seniorliving #seniorcare #assistedliving #eldercare #healthcare #caregiver #community #empathy #leadership #hospitality #compassion #aging #selfcare #caregiving #mentalhealth

Freemasonry & PoliticsGreetings from the EastWe are correctly told that the discussion of religion and politics is forbidden in the Lodge. The reason why is so obvious that the phrase has become axiomatic, such that any discussion of them could automatically lead to sharp differences and worse. There are good lessons to be learned from whence Freemasonry emerged, and it having had a profound effect on the future of worldwide governments.From its organizational origins, which publicly arose after the very bloody and horrific English Civil War of 1642-1651 (matched with other European wars), the learned framers of our Craft and ritual introduced language we take for granted—brotherhood, friendship, brotherly affection and unity, intentionally superseding adversarial positions that even they held. These civil wars shocked both sides, as all violent wars do. Neglectful, totalitarian or dictatorial powers will always lead to corruption, hubris and abuse, thus eventually being the cause of all political and civil strife, and can ultimately, tragically, cost human life.This does not mean however that we cannot and should not ever talk about political issues. Intelligent, wise and experienced men should be free to express ideas or insights to their brothers, who should be willing to listen, but with a caveat. I have known brothers who expressed regrettable comments unbecoming a Freemason...on both sides of the political divide (not from our lodge). The truth should be revealed. Entrenched dogma can be problematic. But so can emotional or speculative idealism. It is during open lodge where the prohibition is in effect. So feel free to speak. Yet the question remains are we even capable of having serious and reasonable dialogue about serious issues amongst ourselves whenever the occasion arises? Truth is a painful antiseptic to any idealism and provides a motive to evolve toward higher realizations.John McCargar, HA, 32°Master

Come explore the transformative impact of Zinnia TV on dementia care in this episode of Tips from Trestle! Aaron sits down with Allyson Schrier, co-founder and president of Zinnia TV, who shares her deeply personal journey from caregiver to dementia advocate and tech innovator. Learn how Zinnia's research-driven, plot-free video content is revolutionizing engagement for people living with dementia—reducing agitation, fostering reminiscence, and empowering caregivers with meaningful connection tools. Discover the science and stories behind this unique streaming service, its proven benefits for senior living communities and home care, and ongoing research partnerships with major institutions. Whether you're a senior living professional, family caregiver, or technology enthusiast, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiration for improving quality of life through dementia-friendly innovation.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoiceWiseOxBen E Keith FoodsAdvantageTrust GPO#TFT421 #DementiaCare #SeniorLiving #MemoryCare #TechForGood #CaregiverSupport #AgingInnovation #DigitalHealth #SeniorWellness #HealthcarePodcast #LongTermCare #DementiaAwareness #FoodService #HospitalityIndustry #CareTech #InnovativeCare

Why Freemasonry?The earliest and best known of the English handlers of London Free & Accepted Masonry in the 1720's, were Dr. Anderson, who wrote the book of Masonic Constitutions, and Dr. Oliver, who wrote extensively on Freemasonry. Briefly, there were other notables at the time of course who simply studied its background and the known initiatory doctrines of antiquity (Ashmole, Desaguliers, et al.), who realized its power in their era as both a movement for the edification of worthy men, and a possible means as a catalyst for advancing, and even hastening, the development of society toward its greater potential, including the promulgation of constitutional governance and rights. This would be accomplished through an “elevated” man who became a Freemason, initiated into a spiritual brotherhood, pursing knowledge promoting civility, and perhaps achieving a higher plane of wisdom. The test of veracity for this view can be observed in the way Freemasonry instigated in the world, so much improvement, in doing exactly what it implied.Subsequent Masonic authors added to our degrees (Colcott, Preston, Webb) each drawing from sources available to them, shaping them into what we practice today. And indeed many others have attempted to explain and interpret the Craft, collectively writing thousands of books, pamphlets, compendiums, encyclopedias, handbooks, papers and speeches. But none of them “invented” Freemasonry from scratch. The lore from the Stone Masons was probably reshaped by the prominent group of learned insiders (additionally in F. Bacon, I. Newton, J. Dee, and from other influential sources—Templar and Church Architects, Rosicrucians, Alchemists), who knew it had existed in different forms, under different names and was practiced in different historical settings—wherever stone monuments were erected. It is likely beyond our reach to know precisely its complex evolution. But one acknowledgment is true: Freemasonry is perennial, relevant now and will be in the future, wherever a motivated individual wishes to advance toward the Light.John McCargar, HAMaster

Join Aaron and guest Carrie Aalberts, aka Dementia Darling, for a lively exploration of dementia care through the lens of food, hospitality, and joyful living. Discover how understanding “behaviors” as communication transforms senior dining, why nonverbal cues matter, and how to create truly person-centered environments. Packed with practical tips on reducing overstimulation, designing dignified dining spaces, and honoring residents' routines, this episode is a must-listen for senior living professionals, caregivers, and families. Learn how small changes—like red plates and positive energy—can spark big improvements in memory care. Tune in for actionable advice, heartfelt stories, and a fresh perspective on making every meal meaningful in senior living communities.Tips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoiceWiseOxBen E Keith FoodsAdvantageTrust GPO#TFT420 #SeniorLiving #DementiaCare #MemoryCare #PersonCenteredCare #ElderCare #CaregiverTips #SeniorDining #CompassionateCare #HospitalityMatters #AgingWell #DiningWithDignity #Gerontology #ResidentExperience #DementiaAwareness #JoyfulAging

Master's MessageAs your Master for 2023, I'd like to hear from you. Send me a note at john.mccargar@gmail.com if you have any comments, concerns or questions at all. We have around 170 brother-members many of whom are out of state, many who are possibly unable to attend lodge. But either way, drop me a note and tell me how you are doing or offer some words about your journey at this stage in your life. I'd love to hear from you.The theme this month is secrecy, an important topic throughout the history of the Craft. The picture-insert of the figurine, with index finger placed close to his lips, appears to be a gesture to remain silent. Perhaps the depiction also hints at a finger pointed heavenward, as if to also suggest silence and reverence are combined to express the virtue of both. The ideal of secrecy forms a basis for protecting or even perpetuation our Masonic domain or body of knowledge. But what's the big deal about that? Many are or have been hostile to our fraternity. Here's a quick summary of why we have a need for maintaining “secrecy”:• Freemasonry stands against oppression and totalitarianism (AASR).• It is non-sectarian yet abhors atheism and promotes religious belief.• It proposes free-thought and free-conscience for determining truth.• It has spiritual rituals that can be the subject of ridicule or mockery.• It has no religious dogma yet invokes the blessings of Deity.• It has been seen as a conspiracy or prejudicial by the profane (historically).• Freemasons can be and have been the target of violence.• Seeks improvement in all human affairs through a select brotherhood.• Tolerates diverse philosophies in the exposition of truth.• Science and Religion go hand in hand.• It stands against ignorance, fanaticism, corruption and hate.These some of the bigger reasons; our modes of recognition and ritual details are lesser ones but just as important, if only for reverence in what leads to sacredness and respect for what is good and true among men. Tell me what you think. (Picture of figurine courtesy of the London Museum of Freemasonry)John McCargar, HAMasterFrom the WestA human being living alone at -71 deg C in the wilderness of snowy forests isn't affected by any secrecy; or is he part of one? In theory, secrecy and openness are mutually exclusive, meaning they can't exist at the same time just like war and peace. In the information age we live in, anything that brings criticism or vulnerability is termed to have been engulfed in secrecy or layers of it. Esoteric may or may not be a secret but a secret might be esoteric or it loses its definition. Does that make sense? Does secrecy breed incompetence, of course, it does. Maybe that is why it should be handled by the initiated and/or chosen few and not just anyone with a pulse. To avoid dire consequences secrecy acts as a shield. Ask an electrician the meaning of insulation that protects him but only a trusted man well-trained in the craft deserves that protection.The universe itself holds secrecy, colors don't announce the outcome when mixed.Greek, Roman, Egyptian, and Babylonian civilizations came and went away as time and tide wait for none. The society we live in has been destroyed and rebuilt many a time with the added knowledge that demands secrecy. The attentive ear receives sound from the instructive tongue and mysteries of freemasonry are safely lodged in the repository of faithful breasts. Freemasonry itself has withstood the tide of changing times because of the respect for the esoteric and the eyes that are upon its members. The goodness of heart and purity of intention keeps the tenets of our esteemed institution sacred and solid. The burdens and responsibilities that come with it entitle a Freemason to its benefits and privileges. Classified it is what makes them want it more or more will want it hence keeping classified, is the secrecy we all must deal with. Elite clubs have their limitations.Shivam J. Sharma, HASenior Warden

Discover how senior living dining is being transformed in this episode of Tips from Trestle. Aaron welcomes Liz Oba Killinger, Real Food Mission Ambassador at Thomas Cuisine, to discuss the shift from processed foods to nutrient-dense, scratch-made meals in senior living communities. Liz shares practical strategies for balancing resident preferences with a real food philosophy, engaging both staff and residents in the journey toward wellness and operational excellence. Learn how Thomas Cuisine's approach boosts resident satisfaction, supports longevity, and empowers culinary teams. Perfect for senior living operators, chefs, and wellness advocates seeking actionable insights to elevate food service and resident engagement in today's competitive senior living landscapeTips from Trestle is sponsored by:eMenuChoiceWiseOxBen E Keith FoodsAdvantageTrust GPO#TFT419 #SeniorLiving #FoodService #wellness #healthyeating #seniorcare #hospitality #healthyfood #community #nutrition #aging #residentengagement #scratchcooking #culinarywellness #realfood #assistedliving

Lost $100,000 before even breaking ground on a construction projectIt happens more often than you think in the construction industry.In today's episode of Bricks, Bucks & Bytes, we had Victor Zhang from Trestle and we got to learn about the hidden profit leaks in construction, why phone calls still beat emails in B2B sales, and how AI is actually being used in construction tech... and many more!Tune in to find out about:✅ Why construction companies lose money before projects even start✅ The real reason email marketing fails with general contractors✅ How proprietary data creates stronger defensibility than AI algorithms✅ Why now is the perfect time to start a construction tech companyVictor shared real examples from his 15 years as a civil engineer and how he built Trestle into an AI-driven risk management platform for general contractors.The talent shortage in construction is so severe that if your startup fails, there will be more jobs waiting for you than when you left.Listen now on Spotify to hear the full conversation about building in the construction tech space.

Angie Clinger and her friends would spend their summer days exploring the woods and hillsides near their homes in Monroe Township, Clarion County, Pennsylvania. But on July 22nd, 1990, the day before Angie's 8th birthday, a simple outing with friends took a dark and unexpected turn. While playing near a tunnel under a railroad trestle, the children stumbled upon a horrifying discovery that would forever alter their childhood memories. The joy and anticipation of Angie's birthday (then and in the future) were instantly replaced by fear, confusion, and a profound sense of loss. This is the case of Penny Doe.Key sources:“For 32 Years, Someone in Clarion County Has Kept a Horrifying Secret” Gavin Fish (9/21/22)“New Information Uncovered in Penny Doe Case for the First Time in 30 Years” Gavin Fish (10/3/22)“DNA and Genetic Genealogy May Unlock the Secret of Penny Doe's Identity” Gavin Fish (11/25/22)If you are interested in bonus content for our show or in getting some Coffee and Cases swag, please consider joining Patreon. There are various levels to fit your needs, all of which can be found here: https://www.patreon.com/coffeeandcases

The deeper into the woods we went, the more the smell of rain surrounded us.

This is the third and final episode in a three-part series of Roman Mars recording on-location guides to the design features and interesting spots in cities he loves. Roman moved to Athens, Georgia, to pursue a PhD in plant genetics, but dropped out and got into the local music and art scene instead, and started making his way toward radio.Roman Mars Describes Athens GA As It IsNote: This series is made possible by the all-new 2024 Lexus GX and SiriusXM.