#145 - Behind the Scenes at Covenant Woods

We're thrilled to bring you the latest episode of The ASHHRA Podcast, recorded live from the ASHHRA 2025 Conference in vibrant Albuquerque!

In this special episode, our hosts Luke and Bo sit down with the insightful Emily Endert, Corporate Director of HR at Covenant Woods in Mechanicsville, Virginia. Emily shares her incredible journey of joining Covenant Woods back in 2005, a place that's much more than just a retirement community. It’s a village teeming with life where healthcare regulations meet heartwarming stories and community connections.

Emily dives into the challenges and triumphs of recruiting in the healthcare industry, highlighting the unique nature of working in a community where residents make life-changing commitments to stay. She offers a glimpse into the importance of building genuine relationships and how Covenant Woods fosters an environment where employees and residents thrive.

Curious about workplace dynamics? The conversation unpacks the unique benefits and occasional challenges of working in a setting that's both employees’ workplace and residents’ home. Hear about Emily’s innovative solutions to the universal challenges like minimum wage adjustments, employee appreciation, and the small joys that come from refusing gifts with grace.

Oh, and did we mention the farm-to-table garden at Covenant Woods? Emily details how this not only supplies fresh produce to the community but also attracts new residents excited by the homey, engaged living experience.

Plus, get inspired by the conference energy and explore why the ASHHRA annual gathering is a must-attend event. Whether it’s networking, innovation, or the sheer joy of face-to-face interactions, there’s something for everyone.

Warm regards,

The ASHHRA Podcast Team

P.S. Mark your calendars now for ASHHRA26 in Savannah, Georgia (May) and, who knows, maybe you’ll join Bo and Luke on the podcast stage next year!