A Journey From Nursing Homes to Senior Living Advisor at Valley Lakes with Don Woods
On this episode, we’re joined by Don Woods, Senior Living Advisor at Valley Lakes Assisted Living. Don shares how a single opportunity in a small-town care community shaped his life-long commitment to senior care. From washing dishes to becoming a trusted leader, his journey is rooted in compassion, connection, and a desire to leave every team better than he found it.
Key Takeaways:
(00:00) Introduction.
(01:42) Discovering senior care as a life-long calling after walking into his first job at age 21.
(04:49) Staying overnight during a snowstorm to serve breakfast and ensure residents were cared for.
(08:20) Realizing how staff become family to seniors who may not have loved ones nearby.
(13:13) Being handed the keys to lead as a young, first-time manager and learning through experience.
(17:12) Reflecting on the emotional weight and unseen challenges of senior care leadership.
(19:57) Prioritizing mentorship by preparing future leaders and empowering every shift to succeed.
(21:46) Advocating for frontline caregivers in Washington, D.C. to elevate the industry's voice.
(24:45) Reconnecting with purpose during COVID by stepping up in moments of crisis for residents and families.
(31:22) Dedicated to making people smile while building a platform to inspire.
Resources Mentioned:
Alzheimer’s Association | Website
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