OPO Insights

OPO Insights

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We are chatting with professionals in the OPO world!

6d ago

Interview with Tenaya Wallace (Episode 011 - OPO Insights Podcast)

Today we are talking with the very passionate Tenaya Wallace! About Tenaya: Tenaya Wallace is the CEO of Crowd Advocacy, a social impact firm that designs campaigns to create lasting change. Tenaya launched her career developing communication and policy campaigns promoting sustainable development at the state and local level, leading initiatives for the Irvine and Hewlett Foundations, the State of California, and the City of Santa Monica, before becoming a national leader in the organ donation community. She joined OneLegacy, where she built and managed the communications and outreach team for the nation's largest organ procurement organization. She co-founded the Rose Dedication Program on OneLegacy's iconic Donate Life Rose Parade Float, created and launched national Donate Life Blue and Green Day, and served as a national board member of Donate Life America. She went on to design Donate Life Hollywood, an entertainment education campaign that nearly eliminated organ donation myths on television and helped drive the largest single-year increase in the public's willingness to register as an organ, eye and tissue donor. Currently Crowd Advocacy provides policy and communications support to Science in Donation & Transplant (SID&T) and Tenaya writes regularly about the special interest disinformation campaign against OPOs, which is eroding public trust. Crowd Advocacy produces Women with Purpose, an annual summit gathering audacious women who are sparking change in their organizations, communities and lives. Crowd Advocacy is also launching Hollywood Saves Lives, helping causes and companies connect with the greatest storytellers on earth to advance their missions. In 2017, Tenaya ran for Congress in Los Angeles, deepening her belief in the power of purpose-driven leadership. Alongside co-creator Ava Kaufman, she is a frequent keynote speaker helping women harness the power of purpose. A native Los Angeleno, she lives with her family in the Silver Lake neighborhood of L.A. Tenaya's Seminar: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_S5FNx4BqSROo0C7X08pdqg#/registration or https://x.com/scnceindonation/status/2100705981801934861?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw Contact Tenaya: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tenayawallace/ ------------------------ OPO Insights is a podcast where we talk to OPO professionals each week. Everyone has different ways they do things, so the goal is to learn something from others! If you, or someone you know, would like to be on the show, please reach out to our host, Sean Jordan!
Sep 21

Interview with Sarah Jaschen (Episode 010 - OPO Insights Podcast)

Today we are talking to Sarah Jaschen from Iowa Donor Network! About Sarah: Sarah Jaschen is the Director of Promote the Gift at Iowa Donor Network, where she brings 18 years of healthcare experience and more than a decade dedicated to organ and tissue donation. She leads initiatives that strengthen partnerships with hospitals, healthcare professionals, emergency services, medical examiners, and community partners to advance donation opportunities across Iowa. Sarah oversees a multidisciplinary team responsible for hospital relations, professional outreach, volunteer engagement, and community education. Her work focuses on developing effective policies, driving strategic initiatives, analyzing data to improve donation outcomes, and fostering a culture of collaboration and compassion throughout the healthcare system. Through her leadership, Sarah is dedicated to honoring donors, supporting donor families, and creating opportunities to save and heal lives through the gift of donation. OPO Insights is a podcast where we talk to OPO professionals each week. Everyone has different ways they do things, so the goal is to learn something from others! If you, or someone you know, would like to be on the show, please reach out to our host, Sean Jordan!
Sep 14

Interview with Jennifer Clingingsmith and Amy Kennedy (Episode 009 - OPO Insights Podcast)

Today we are speaking with Jennifer and Amy! They are both traveling family services coordinators! Contact Jennifer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-clingingsmith-b25219327/ Contact Amy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-kennedy-ms-rrt-nps-1b54843b3/ About Jennifer: I am a Registered Respiratory Therapist with more than 20 years of critical care experience, dedicated to providing exceptional patient care and supporting families through some of life’s most challenging moments. My career in critical care fostered a deep appreciation for compassionate communication, end-of-life care, and the profound impact of organ and tissue donation. In 2021, I transitioned into the role of Organ Donation Family Advocate with my local Organ Procurement Organization (OPO), where I discovered my passion for guiding families through the donation process with empathy, honesty, and respect. Supporting families during these conversations has become one of the most meaningful aspects of my career. Driven by a desire to expand that impact, I founded Final Act LLC, providing experienced organ donation family advocacy services to Organ Procurement Organizations across the United States. Through Final Act LLC, I partner with OPOs to deliver compassionate family support, help strengthen donation outcomes, provide approach coaching both onsite and remotely, and ensure every family receives the dignity, guidance, and care they deserve while honoring their loved one’s legacy. My mission is simple: to combine decades of critical care experience with compassionate advocacy to help families find hope, create lasting legacies, and support the lifesaving gift of organ and tissue donation. About Amy: Experienced healthcare and family support professional with more than 20 years of clinical expertise as a Registered Respiratory Therapist specializing in neonatal and pediatric critical care, complemented by nearly three years as a Family Support Coordinator providing compassionate care and guidance to donor families across multiple Organ Procurement Organizations (OPOs). Holds a Master’s degree in Healthcare Management and Administration, combining strong clinical knowledge with leadership, healthcare operations, and strategic management expertise. Passionate about supporting donor families during their most difficult moments while advancing community awareness and education on the life-saving impact of organ, eye, and tissue donation. Recognized for executive presence, compassionate communication, and a steadfast commitment to service, collaboration, and excellence in healthcare. To find out more about our Best Practices Summit, visit our website! https://bestpractices.researchplan.com/ OPO Insights is a podcast where we talk to OPO professionals each week. Everyone has different ways they do things, so the goal is to learn something from others! If you, or someone you know, would like to be on the show, please reach out to our host, Sean Jordan!
Apr 27

More Helpful Advice From Previous Best Practices Summit Guests (Episode 008 - OPO Insights Podcast)

Let's look at some more clips from our previous virtual Best Practices Summits! Today, we are focusing on Aftercare! To sign up for the Best Practices Summits this year visit https://bestpractices.researchplan.com/ View the full BPS playlist here: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvmig1ZWcorKxJuK7-gqUl5xYMSYXzPMl&si=9EE0GMv1hT60J2l_ ---------------------------------------- OPO Insights is a podcast where we talk to OPO professionals each week. Everyone has different ways they do things, so the goal is to learn something from others! If you, or someone you know, would like to be on the show, please reach out to our host, Sean Jordan!
Apr 20

Some Helpful Advice From Previous Best Practices Summit Guests (Episode 007 - OPO Insights Podcast)

Today we are looking at some clips from our previous virtual Best Practices Summits! View the full playlist here: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvmig1ZWcorKxJuK7-gqUl5xYMSYXzPMl&si=9EE0GMv1hT60J2l_ OPO Insights is a podcast where we talk to OPO professionals each week. Everyone has different ways they do things, so the goal is to learn something from others! If you, or someone you know, would like to be on the show, please reach out to our host, Sean Jordan!
Apr 13

Why Listening Wins (Episode 006 - OPO Insights Podcast)

Listening is not just something useful in sales, it translates so well to the OPO world! Today, we are listening to the words and recordings of Cecil Puvathingal. Contact Cecil: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cecilpuvathingal/ About Cecil: I genuinely believe that a world of opportunity awaits us all every day. It’s about anticipation, perspective, and the joy of discovery. As a seven-year-old moving from India to the States, that perspective started with discovering the English language. Every day opened up a new possibility. I received a book chronicling every baseball World Series and a Batman comic book that first Christmas, and that joy of discovery created in me a lifelong passion for learning and embracing new opportunities. Many years later, my mindset has not changed. This same feeling emerges each time I advocate for personal and professional growth. And the gift doesn’t have to be for me – I get just as much satisfaction from helping those around me tap into this joy of discovery and become the best version of themselves. In all things, I anticipate the good, take a positive perspective, and tap into the energy that comes from the joy of discovery. WITH MY WORK My passion lies in empowering individuals to boost their self-confidence, contribute effectively to their teams, and nurture a positive team culture, ultimately driving revenue for the organization. As a leader, nothing is more gratifying than witnessing people discover their inherent talents and harness them to impact the world positively. WITH MY EDUCATION With a background in engineering, I have a natural inclination for problem-solving, but my true calling lies in unlocking potential and collaborating with people to achieve tangible results. WITH MY CAREER Across various industries through various SaaS platforms, including healthcare, the gig economy, recruitment, professional services, the performing arts, and now market research, I still see the value in anticipating the next great opportunity. My leadership style creates environments that consistently surpass targets in every business unit I've had the privilege to lead. WITH MY COLLEAGUES I've consistently worked with incredible people throughout my career, mentoring them and broadening their horizons all while learning more about myself. I’ve fostered vibrant organizational cultures, optimized operational efficiency, and leveraged key performance metrics to deliver exceptional results and drive revenue. WHAT’S NEXT Those Batman comics would eventually contribute to meeting my own Wonder Woman – marrying a nurse who is a true superhero working the behavioral health unit. I think there will be an actual puppy under this year’s Christmas tree. Just you wait and see. OPO Insights is a podcast where we talk to OPO professionals each week. Everyone has different ways they do things, so the goal is to learn something from others! If you, or someone you know, would like to be on the show, please reach out to our host, Sean Jordan!
Apr 6

Interview with Erin Wilson (Episode 005 - OPO Insights Podcast)

Today, we are speaking with Erin Wilson from Indiana Donor Network! About Erin: Erin Wilson is the Manager of Hospital Services at Indiana Donor Network, where she has served in multiple roles over her eight years with the organization. Her experience includes four years as a Family Advocate, two years as an Aftercare Coordinator, and the past two years leading the Hospital Services team—giving her a uniquely well- rounded perspective on the entire donation journey. A Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Erin’s professional roots are deeply grounded in healthcare. She previously worked in the Emergency Department at Indiana’s largest Level I Trauma Center and at Riley Children’s Hospital, and she also provided mental health therapy through the Veteran Affairs for two years. Erin’s work with donor families before and after donation has shaped her leadership philosophy and fuels her commitment to supporting both families and hospital partners. That lived experience allows her to help hospitals understand both the bedside experience and the ongoing care and support Indiana Donor Network provides to donor families after donation. Contact Erin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-wilson-9155b066/ To find out more about our Best Practices Summit, visit our website! https://bestpractices.researchplan.com/ OPO Insights is a podcast where we talk to OPO professionals each week. Everyone has different ways they do things, so the goal is to learn something from others! If you, or someone you know, would like to be on the show, please reach out to our host, Sean Jordan!
Mar 30

Interview with Faith Hilterbrand (Episode 004 - OPO Insights)

This week we are getting some amazing insights from Faith Hilterbrand from Lifeline of Ohio! About Faith: Faith Hilterbrand serves as the Director of External Partner Relations at Lifeline of Ohio, where she leads the Hospital Development, Family Services, and Funeral Home/Coroner teams with a strong focus on strategic alignment and clear internal and external communication. With more than twenty years dedicated to education, science, and donor‑family advocacy, her career spans veterinary medicine, life science education, and progressive leadership within the donation community. Faith was elected to the 2026 NATCO Board of Directors, has contributed to the NATCO Pre‑Conference Planning Committee for five years, joined the AOPO Leadership Development Committee in 2025, and served as faculty on the Alliance Advancement Series and Hospital Executive Insights workgroups. She remains deeply committed to strengthening partnerships, enhancing professional collaboration, and supporting best practices across the donation and transplantation field. Contact Faith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/faith-hilterbrand?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app OPO Insights is a podcast where we talk to OPO professionals each week. Everyone has different ways they do things, so the goal is to learn something from others! If you, or someone you know, would like to be on the show, please reach out to our host, Sean Jordan!
Mar 23

Interview with Nekeela De Haarte (Episode 003 - OPO Insights)

This week, we are speaking with Nekeela De Haarte! About Nekeela: Nekeela is a seasoned leader, educator, and clinician with more than 20 years of experience in counseling, education, and behavioral health. She holds two bachelor’s degrees in Education and Forensic Psychology, as well as a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology. Her professional background spans leadership, psychotherapy, behavioral and bereavement counseling, public and inspirational speaking, and higher education. With 18 years of dedicated experience in organ donation and transplantation, Nekeela began her journey in 2008 at LiveOnNY, where she served in a hybrid role as both a Hospital Development Coordinator and Family Services Coordinator (FSC). In this capacity, she supported two Level I Trauma Centers while also providing frontline family services in the field. Over the past decade, Nekeela has worked nationally as a traveling Family Services Coordinator for numerous OPOs, in addition to serving as a professor of psychology and sociology and a professional trainer. She is widely recognized as the first traveling Family Services Coordinator in the United States and brings proven expertise in designing and coordinating OPO-wide family services trainings aligned with annual education and performance goals. In August 2023, Nekeela founded OPO Medical Specialists, Inc., a staffing and training agency dedicated to supporting Organ Procurement Organizations across the United States with temporary staffing solutions and specialized training education. In 2025, she was elected Vice Chair of Family Services for the Association for Multicultural Affairs in Transplant (AMAT), further solidifying her leadership and advocacy within the field. Contact Nekeela: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nekeela-de-haarte-m-s-a424072aa/ https://www.opomedicalspecialists.com/ OPO Insights is a podcast where we talk to OPO professionals each week. Everyone has different ways they do things, so the goal is to learn something from others! If you, or someone you know, would like to be on the show, please reach out to our host, Sean Jordan!
Mar 16

Interview with Allen Ward (Episode 002 - OPO Insights Podcast)

This week, we are speaking with Allen Ward who is the Business Intelligence Architect at Donor Network West! About Allen: Allen D. Ward is a seasoned healthcare operations and analytics leader with more than 30 years of experience improving organizational performance, shaping data strategy, and strengthening stakeholder engagement. His career spans roles in business intelligence, executive consulting, and operational leadership—most notably with Donor Network West, where he directed their early data and analytics efforts, managed multidisciplinary teams supporting organ and tissue donation across California and Nevada, and currently leads Lean performance improvement initiatives throughout the organization. Allen has also served as an adjunct instructor at North Idaho College, teaching business, management, and healthcare law with a focus on team dynamics and ethical decision‑making. Driven by a commitment to service and innovation, Allen has designed numerous strategic frameworks, launched new service lines, delivered national presentations, and guided transformative projects in collaboration with dozens of healthcare partners. Allen holds an MBA from Saint Mary’s College of California and a BA in Psychology from Gonzaga University in Spokane Washington. Contact Allen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allendward/ ---------------------------------------- OPO Insights is a podcast where we talk to OPO professionals each week. Everyone has different ways they do things, so the goal is to learn something from others! If you, or someone you know, would like to be on the show, please reach out to our host, Sean Jordan!
Mar 9

Interview with Michelle Reef (Episode 001 - OPO Insights Podcast)

This week we’re featuring Michelle Reef from Unlock Leadership, an agency she founded to provide consulting services to the OPO industry. About Michelle: Michelle Reef, MA, is a mission-driven healthcare leader with more than 20 years of experience across nonprofit and commercial healthcare, including organ and tissue donation, pharmaceutical sales, leadership development, and national professional organizations. She is the founder of Unlock Leadership Consulting, where she partners with healthcare and professional organizations to strengthen leadership, improve processes, and translate mission into measurable outcomes. Previously, Michelle served in senior and executive-level leadership roles with the Mississippi Organ Recovery Agency (MORA) and Gift of Hope Organ & Tissue Donor Network, working closely with hospital systems, transplant centers, and forensic partners to advance referral practices and support life-saving legacies. At the national level, she served as Leadership Development Facilitator for NATCO’s Emerging Leaders Program and as a consultant and faculty member for The Alliance, and currently consults with OPOs, DeGarmo, and DonorIQ on leadership, family care, and AI-enabled workflow innovation. She holds a Master of Arts in Executive Leadership and is a graduate of the Art and Science of Leadership program through Gift of Life Institute, Wharton and the Fox School of Business. You can contact Michelle Reef by connecting with her on LinkedIn or emailing her at servethemission100@gmail.com. OPO Insights is a podcast where we talk to OPO professionals each week. Everyone has different ways they do things, so the goal is to learn something from others! If you, or someone you know, would like to be on the show, please reach out to our host, Sean Jordan!
Mar 3

Interview with Michelle Reef (Episode 001 - OPO Insights Podcast)

This Week, we are speaking with Michelle Reef!

12 Episodes

We are chatting with professionals in the OPO world!

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OPO Insights
Years Active

2026
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12
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Clean
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