Magic in the Room #92: Living Purpose - The Institute for Shelter Care with Jeanne Allert
March 9, 2022
When we listen to other people’s stories, we may realize there are challenges in the world that are bigger than ourselves. Sometimes we are compelled to take on these challenges and change the world around us. In this episode of Magic in the Room, Hannah and Chris are joined by guest Jeanne Allert, who tells her story of living a purpose-driven life by making sure victims of sex trafficking have access to qualified, compassionate care through The Samaritan Women Institute for Shelter Care.
Jeanne L. Allert, Ph.D. is the Founder and Executive Director of The Samaritan Women Institute for Shelter Care. In 2007 Jeanne was convicted to leave the trappings of a lucrative career as an Internet consultant to establish one of the first long-term restorative care programs in the Mid-Atlantic for victims of domestic sex trafficking. She immersed herself in learning—mostly from survivors themselves—and created TSW-ISC’s unique Care Model. Over the years TSW expanded its service and took on several national research projects. In 2018-2019 she led the organization through a major shift to create the Institute of Shelter Care, which leverages the expertise of TSW-ISC and industry peers across the country to train and mentor new shelter programs in the areas of greatest need.
Find out more about Jeanne and her work at thesamaritanwomen.org
Listen now on your favorite platform!
Find our latest online learning courses at www.purposeandperformancegroup.com/online-learning
Get a free Magic in the Room hat by posting a review and sending a screenshot to:
info@purposeandperformancegroup.com
Music by evangrimmusic.com
Recorded at storycatcher.studio
Support from techblogwriter.co.uk

In this episode of Magic in the Room, Luke, Hannah, and Chris explore how the concept of mattering transforms customer experience through their practical GUEST framework. Building on the idea that people thrive when they feel noticed, affirmed, and valued, they argue that exceptional service is not just about efficiency or technical competence, but about intentionally designing experiences where guests truly feel significant. They unpack the five elements of the GUEST model: Greet with empathy, Uncover needs, Express gratitude, Share names, and Teach benefits. They show how each step reinforces belonging and loyalty, whether in a 30-second interaction or a 30-year relationship. The conversation highlights the difference between service and hospitality, the power of recovery when mistakes occur, and the leadership responsibility to embed mattering into culture rather than leaving it to chance.

In this episode of Magic in the Room, Luke, Hannah, and Chris explore the lessons, transitions, and leadership insights they’re carrying forward into 2026, emphasizing the importance of narrowing focus, letting go of resistance, and aligning with natural rhythms to create meaningful momentum. They discuss how personal and professional growth often emerges through periods of chaos and transition, highlighting themes such as intentionality, subtraction as a multiplier, and the courage required to release control, certainty, and outdated habits. Drawing on their work with purpose-driven organizations, they explain how leadership transformation begins internally, noting that organizational change is inseparable from personal development and mindset shifts. They also explore how embracing disturbance, addressing root causes instead of symptoms, and cultivating hope rather than cynicism can unlock resilience, stronger culture, and long-term performance.
