About Malinda —

My Journey

At the start of my career, my focus was on the hustle—pushing for my own success. Over time, I realized that what truly inspired me wasn’t my own wins, but seeing others succeed and grow around me.

Long-term care was never on my radar, yet in my early twenties I found myself stepping into an administrator role. At that stage, I didn’t fully grasp the scope or influence of the position—I just moved forward with determination and a bit of naïve confidence. Nearly a decade later, I understand just how much responsibility and impact that role carried. And while the industry has always been challenging, today’s environment is tougher than ever.

My Why

When people ask why I started M.S. Healthcare Consulting, my answer is simple: I’m driven to nurture the next generation of healthcare leaders. My approach is rooted in real-world experience, balanced with curiosity and compassion.

For me, nothing is more meaningful than building authentic connections and helping others navigate their own growth. That’s where I find my purpose—and where I believe lasting impact is made.

When I am not tackling the world of long-term care,

I am a professor at Iowa State University, as well as Barcelona Executive Business School. Helping to make a positive impression on the next generation is incredibly important to me, and my ultimate hope is that they choose to embark on the tough, gritty world of healthcare. I have my doctorate degree from MCPHS University in Boston (go Bruins!) in health sciences, my master’s degree from Drake University in public administration, and my bachelor’s degree from Iowa State University in journalism. I love all things Halloween-related, enjoy going for nature walks, write children’s books in my spare time, and will never say no to a cup of hot tea.

“Before you are a leader, success is all about growing yourself. When you become a leader, success is all about growing others.”

— Jack Welch