Cindy Baier, President and CEO of Brookdale Senior Living—the nation’s largest senior living operator in the country—shares how growing up on a farm taught her the benefit of hard work. She tackles tough problems by studying them from every angle, utilizing a team with diverse perspectives, and putting every idea on the table, even the unlikely ones. Baier talks about the rewarding connections and relationships Brookdale staff have with residents–what she calls a “second paycheck”–and how this industry is unmatched with opportunities to make a difference.  Key Insights:  The importance of a leadership team being representative of the residential population to gain a true understanding of what they want, how they feel, and what they need.

Serving side-by-side with staff members who are doing the work—such as maintenance and housekeeping—to make well-informed decision.s

How a supportive care community fosters relationships within families by alleviating the burden of being an unpaid caregiver.