In this special re-release, we’re revisiting a powerful conversation with Ila, in honour of her passing on April 20, 2026.

Ila was not only an incredible leader, but also my friend. She inspired me on many levels—through her courage, her perspective, and the way she showed up so fully for the people around her.

In this episode, she shares her perspective on leadership, resilience, and what it really means to show up for others in complex, demanding environments. Her words carry a depth that feels even more meaningful now.

As you listen, you’ll hear the clarity, honesty, and strength that defined her. This conversation is a reminder of the impact one person can have—through how they lead, how they connect, and how they care.

I’m deeply grateful to have known Ila, and to share this conversation again in her memory.

In this episode of Central Line, Leah Wuitschik sits down with Kelly Baskerville, a nurse leader with 25 years of experience across frontline care, education, and system-level leadership in continuing care.

Now the Executive Director of the Institute for Continuing Care Education and Research, Kelly shares how her career in gerontology unfolded—and why working with older adults is among the most complex and overlooked work in healthcare.

At the heart of this conversation is a simple but powerful truth: leadership is a long game, and you can’t do it alone.

Together, Leah and Kelly explore what it really takes to sustain yourself over time—why connection matters, how to find your people, and the role community plays in navigating pressure, uncertainty, and change.

They also get practical about what holds people back from reaching out—and how to start building meaningful connections, even when it feels uncomfortable.

This episode is a reminder that the leaders who last aren’t the ones who go it alone—they’re the ones who stay connected.

What happens when you’re 21 years old and suddenly responsible for leading people twice your age?

In this episode, I sit down with Max to explore his journey from the Canadian Armed Forces to senior healthcare leadership. We talk about leading under pressure, navigating imposter syndrome, and the transition from structured military systems to the complexity of civilian healthcare.

We unpack what healthcare can learn from military leadership — especially around communication, closing the loop, and building trust — and why emotional intelligence and coaching are essential, not optional, for today’s leaders.

If you’ve ever questioned whether you belong in the seat you’re in, this conversation will resonate.