Advertise on podcast: The Quest for the GoodLife with Dr. Mike Strouse

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Dr. Mike Strouse, Megan McKinney Todd, David McDonald, Abby Baden and co-host Ivo Ivanov explore the quest for the good life through innovative care models, addressing the complexities of the privacy paradox, the importance of independence and self-direction, and the role of technology in enhancing care delivery. They discuss the challenges posed by regulatory barriers and staffing issues, emphasizing the need for meaningful choices in care. The dialogue culminates in the introduction of the Neighborhood Network as a potential solution to improve care outcomes while respecting privacy and personal safety.  Additionally, Dr. Mike Strouse and his colleagues discuss the evolving landscape of remote care, emphasizing the importance of privacy, self-direction, and the role of technology in providing effective support. They explore the choices available to individuals receiving care, the hierarchy of intrusion related to different support methods, and the necessity of organic decision-making in care planning. The discussion highlights the advantages of remote support over traditional in-home care, particularly in terms of privacy and autonomy, while also addressing the challenges and misconceptions surrounding the use of technology in caregiving. Stay in the Loop with GoodLife Innovations: Website: https://mygoodlife.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoodLifeInnovations Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodlifeinnov/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/goodlifeinnovations Donate: https://mygoodlife.org/donate/ Check out: Relevant Video Check out: Relevant Blog

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Dr. Mike Strouse and legal expert Lewis Walton discuss the intersection of privacy, technology, and care. They explore the implications of remote support technologies, the ownership of privacy, and the evolving landscape of healthcare. The conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities presented by new technologies, emphasizing the importance of choice and the least intrusive approaches to care. They also reflect on societal attitudes towards technology and privacy, drawing parallels with historical technological advancements. Takeaways: The conversation emphasizes the importance of privacy in care.All care methods can be seen as intrusive to some degree.Ownership of privacy is a fundamental right for individuals.Technology can enhance privacy rather than diminish it.The perception of intrusiveness varies with technology acceptance.AI and remote support are reshaping care expectations.Regulatory frameworks must adapt to new technologies.Choice in care methods is essential for individual autonomy.

Send us Fan Mail In this conversation, Dr. Mike Strouse welcomes Beth McCoach and David McDonald to discuss the complexities of privacy in care, emphasizing the paradox of seeking privacy while relying on intrusive methods. He explores how technology can enhance independence and care delivery, advocating for remote support as a less intrusive alternative to in-home care. The discussion also highlights the role of sensors in modern care and the regulatory challenges that hinder the adoption of innovative care solutions. Takeaways The privacy paradox highlights the contradiction in care expectations.Technology can enhance independence and privacy in care.Remote support is often less intrusive than in-home care.Sensors play a crucial role in modern care solutions.Regulatory challenges impede the adoption of innovative care methods.Comparing care techniques is essential for effective decision-making.Privacy should not be sacrificed for the sake of care.The least intrusive approach to care is a fundamental expectation.Care delivery must evolve with technological advancements.Understanding the role of technology is key to improving care.

Send us Fan Mail Today we welcome Nate Beers, the founder and host of the popular "IDD Leader" podcast. The conversation explores the critical role of frontline supervisors in staff retention and the lack of training they often receive in leadership. Nate Beers introduces the Leadership Lab, a new initiative aimed at providing comprehensive training, accountability, and community support for supervisors, focusing on essential skills like having difficult conversations and giving effective feedback. Takeaways Do your frontline supervisors sometimes unintentionally contribute to staff turnover? Most were never trained to lead. Training almost always has it bent towards compliance. What is the "Leadership Lab"? Training, accountability and community. How to have hard conversations. How to give informal feedback. How to avoid repetition Practical tools that are very evidence-based. Please visit Idd Leader here: https://iddleader.com Watch and subscribe to the podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/@IDDLeader Stay in the Loop with GoodLife Innovations: Website: https://mygoodlife.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoodLifeInnovations Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodlifeinnov/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/goodlifeinnovations Donate: https://mygoodlife.org/donate/

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of 'The Quest for the Good Life,' Dr. Mike Strouse and Ivo Ivanov welcome Marcy Davis, CEO of Candeo, who shares her journey in transforming the lives of individuals with disabilities through the innovative workforce strategies developed by GoodLife. The conversation explores the successful implementation of new work schedules that have led to a significant increase in applications and a decrease in vacancies. Marcy emphasizes the importance of communication and collaboration in navigating workforce challenges, providing valuable insights for other agencies facing similar issues. Marcy Davis emphasizes the importance of human connection in her work.Candeo has grown from serving 14 individuals to a larger community.Natural disasters can have a profound impact on local communities.The transition to a new work schedule strategies developed by GoodLife and Dr. Strouse can lead to increased employee satisfaction.Effective communication is key to implementing change in organizations.Marcy's experience highlights the importance of not going it alone during transitions.The quality of support improves when full-time employees work weekends.A dedicated recruiter can streamline the hiring process significantly.The new work model has led to a dramatic decrease in vacancies.Marcy's leadership style focuses on collaboration and understanding employee needs.Visit Candeo Iowa here: https://www.candeoiowa.org/

Send us Fan Mail The Quest continues way up north as Dr. Mike Strouse travels to the stunning, vast and unforgiving state of Alaska! Our distinguished guests are Amanda Elder and Kim Champney.  The conversation explores the unique challenges and innovative solutions in delivering disability services in Alaska. Among other things the discussion highlights the economic factors affecting workforce availability, the diversity of service providers, and the transition to a three-day work week as a response to changing workforce demands. The guests share insights on the need for flexibility and innovation in service delivery, emphasizing the importance of adapting to the unique needs of Alaskan communities. Takeaways Alaska's vast geography presents unique challenges for service delivery. Transportation issues significantly impact access to services in remote areas. Extreme weather conditions affect community inclusion and service provision. Diversity among service providers is essential to meet varying community needs. Economic factors, such as the oil industry, influence workforce availability. Innovative care models are necessary to address service gaps in Alaska. The transition to a three-day work week can improve work-life balance for employees. Flexibility in service delivery is crucial for adapting to community needs. Technology can enhance service delivery but requires careful integration. Collaboration among providers is key to overcoming challenges in the system.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode Dr. Mike Strouse addresses the enduring challenges facing service providers such as:  - wonky schedules - reliance on part-time labor - early turnover  - working short - reliance on PRN and pool staffing Finding the right solutions starts with asking the right questions.  What are the twelve important questions service providers must ask themselves to make the first step towards arriving at the right solutions? The conversation also delves into the ongoing workforce stability crisis, emphasizing the multifaceted challenges beyond just pay. It explores the importance of metrics for assessing staffing stability, strategies for improving staffing capacity, and the role of local providers in the care ecosystem. Our workforce concerns are not going away organically.We need to stop looking at turnover as our estimate of instability.If you want different results, you just need to behave differently.Your pipeline is solely based upon attractiveness of the schedules.Do you even know what your call-off rate is?We can make a big difference but only with the right strategy.We need to pursue a different vision of care.The only reason people don't want to put solutions in place is because they can't change what they're doing.To continue on the quest for the good life we must rise up, look back and step forward. Chapters 00:00 Overview of Workforce Stability Crisis 02:39 Challenges Beyond Pay in Workforce Management 05:33 Metrics for Assessing Staffing Stability 08:58 Strategies for Improving Staffing Capacity 11:50 Addressing Staffing Challenges and Solutions 14:44 The Future of Care and Workforce Collaboration

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Dr. Mike Strauss discusses the challenges faced by seniors in accessing effective care, particularly the limitations of traditional in-home care and assisted living. He introduces the Neighborhood Network, a new model that combines community support, technology, and professional caregivers to provide affordable, on-demand assistance for seniors. The conversation emphasizes the importance of preventative health practices and the role of technology in empowering seniors to maintain their independence while receiving the care they need. Senior Neighborhood Network - Learn More Takeaways In-home care often fails due to unpredictable staffing and needs. Assisted living is expensive and not always desired by seniors. The Neighborhood Network aims to provide facility-level support at home. Technology can enhance senior care but must be user-friendly. Preventative health practices can significantly extend seniors' lives. Community support and volunteerism are vital for senior well-being. The iCoach offers 24/7 remote support for seniors. Seniors should only pay for the services they actually use. Engaging in simple health practices can prevent costly care later. The Neighborhood Network is a scalable solution for senior care. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Senior Care Challenges 02:53 The Viability of In-Home Care 06:03 The Need for a New Care Model 08:46 Introducing the Neighborhood Network 11:43 Characteristics of Effective Senior Care 15:04 The Role of Technology in Senior Care 17:54 The iCoach and Remote Support 20:55 Cost-Effective Solutions for Seniors 23:58 Community and Volunteer Support 26:56 The Importance of Preventative Practices 29:53 Engaging Seniors in Their Care 32:44 Conclusion and Call to Action

Send us Fan Mail What does it truly mean to live a “normal life”? In this episode of The Quest for the GoodLife, Dr. Mike Strouse and Ivo Ivanov explore how technology, shifting expectations, and the lessons of the pandemic are transforming care. From “place killers” like Netflix and Amazon to the enduring vision of the Final Rule, they reimagine what’s possible for people with disabilities, seniors, and communities everywhere. Join us as we uncover how care must evolve beyond old models—like Blockbuster and group homes—toward a future where people have home-field advantage, time for what matters most, and support that fits seamlessly into everyday life.

Send us Fan Mail What happens when MacGyver meets Wonder Woman in the world of human services? In this episode, Dr. Mike Strouse and Ivo Ivanov sit down with Veronica St. Cyr, Director of Strategic Partnerships at Navigating Life. Together, they explore how private social platforms can foster connection, build trust, and transform care for individuals, families, and communities. From GoodLife’s award-winning Neighborhood Network to the bold vision of creating new “blue zones,” this conversation is all about redefining what’s possible with creativity, technology, and heart.  Episode Links: Who is MacGyver?Watch our Video Episode: Noel's Quest for IndependenceExplore the Navigating Life appExplore GoodLife's Expanded Neighborhood Network for Aging AdultsExplore the active "Blue Zones" and learn about the history of the concept.

Send us Fan Mail What happens when you combine the wisdom of the world’s healthiest communities with a vision to reinvent how we age?  In this episode, Dr. Mike Strouse and co-host Ivo Ivanov take listeners from stories of synchronicity and small-town magic to a bold plan for creating America’s first “Blue Zone” without walls. Learn how logistics, technology, and purpose-driven living could help people age in place, stay connected, and live longer, healthier, more meaningful lives. Episode Links:  The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer BradleySynchronicity: An Acausal Connecting Principle

Send us Fan Mail Watch this Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/jG4M1him8Hk?si=4qKdXTWneqaS5y3o Watch this Episode on Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/goodlifeu/quest13?share=copy About this Episode: In this special video episode of The Quest for the GoodLife Podcast, Dr. Mike Strouse travels to Arkansas to meet Noel—an insightful, passionate young man with cerebral palsy—and Whitney Garrison, Director of Regional Services for GoodLife. What unfolds is a deeply personal, eye-opening conversation that lays bare the realities of support systems for people with disabilities. Noel shares his experiences navigating Arkansas’s fragmented care landscape, his struggle to remain independent, and the emotional toll of unreliable staffing, limited transportation, and bureaucratic complexity. With humor, grace, and wisdom beyond his years, Noel reminds us what it truly means to live a “good life”—not just with support, but with friendship, dignity, and the freedom to contribute meaningfully to one's community.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Quest for the GoodLife, Dr. Mike Strouse and co-host Ivo Ivanov welcome Todd Lewis, VP at IMA and a passionate advocate for those who care for others. Together, they unpack the complex world of ICHRAs—Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangements—and why these innovative benefits are gaining traction across the caregiving industry. With over 400% growth in recent years, ICHRAs empower employers to offer flexible, individualized, and portable healthcare options for employees—especially critical for the hourly caregiving workforce. Todd and Mike discuss how these plans can break the one-size-fits-all model, ease the financial burden on staff, and stabilize a workforce under strain. If you’re a CEO, HR leader, or policymaker navigating rising insurance costs and caregiver retention challenges, this episode offers a fresh perspective—and a path forward. 👉 Learn how to customize benefits, contain costs, and truly “take care of the people who take care of people.”

Send us Fan Mail Is your workforce strategy stuck in the past? In this episode, Dr. Mike Strouse and co-host Ivo Ivanov dig into the hidden traps of traditional scheduling in the care industry. Through powerful analogies and data-driven insights, they explore how rigid five-day workweeks, fragmented part-time roles, and outdated scheduling models are driving workforce instability—and what you can do to fix it. Listeners will learn: Why your “stayers” might be hurting your hiring pipelineThe measurable impact of schedule design on recruitment and retentionHow to transform scheduling from a liability into an incentiveWhy a 3-day workweek might be your secret weapon for workforce sustainabilityWhether you're a leader in healthcare, disability services, or just curious about human-centered operations, this episode offers fresh perspectives and practical frameworks to help you pivot with purpose.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Dr. Mike Strouse and Ivo Ivanov sit down with Lewis Walton—attorney, tech innovator, longtime board member, and one of the most respected professional family teachers in GoodLife’s history. Together, they revisit the pivotal years between 1999 and 2002, when the seeds of remote support, professional family living, and the three-day work week were planted—years before the rest of the field caught on. Lewis shares his unique path from philosophy student to tech leader to extended family caregiver. You’ll hear behind-the-scenes stories of GoodLife’s first analog-to-digital transition, the birth of the extended family model, and the invisible infrastructure that has supported some of the nation’s most innovative care models. The trio also dives into professional wrestling, podcasting, neighborhood networks, and why some lives—and careers—just don’t punch in and out. 🎧 Tune in to explore what happens when care becomes a lifestyle, not a shift—and how technology, relationships, and purpose are transforming what’s possible.