Behind every title is a person, with a story worth hearing.

In this episode of The Meritage Project, host Phil Lord sits down with The Reserve at Lake Austin resident, artist, and storyteller Erik Sprohge — a man whose life has spanned continents, careers, and creative expression. From his early childhood in Latvia and Germany to building a life in Houston, Erik reflects on the experiences that shaped his identity, his artistry, and his perspective on the world.

Trained as an architect and later known for his watercolor and acrylic work, Erik shares how precision, curiosity, and imagination have guided him through each chapter of life. But for Erik, art has never simply been about technique — it has always been about storytelling. Through his work, he captures not just places and moments, but the deeper reflections that come with time, change, and lived experience.

Now residing at The Reserve at Lake Austin, Erik offers an honest and deeply human perspective on aging, love, and legacy. He speaks candidly about caring for his wife, Helen, navigating the realities of memory loss, and finding meaning in this current chapter of life — one filled with both gratitude and complexity.

With humor, humility, and wisdom, Erik reminds us that life is not about having all the answers, but about continuing to evolve, to create, and to be unapologetically yourself.

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Behind every title is a person, with a story worth hearing. In this episode of The Meritage Project, host Phil Lord sits down with Solera’s Corporate Director of Culinary Experience, Chef Kristen Burman — a leader known for her creativity, heart, and the joy she brings to every kitchen. Kristen reflects on growing up in a close-knit Chicago family, the discipline and love that shaped her, and the path that led her from competitive athletics to culinary school and a life in food. Along the way, she discovered a simple truth: meals matter most when they bring people together. Now in senior living, her purpose is clearer than ever. Whether learning the story behind a resident’s favorite recipe or honoring a special request, Kristen believes great hospitality starts with listening. For her, it’s not about recognition — it’s about connection, service, and community. With warmth and humility, she shares the lessons that guide her leadership, the balance of family life, and the value she hopes to pass on: when you start something, you finish it.

Behind every title is a person, with a story worth hearing. In this episode of The Meritage Project, host Phil Lord sits down with Clark Weaver, a resident of Trulee Evanston, whose life journey spans family, faith, military service, and decades in law and public service. Clark shares reflections from a life well lived — from growing up in the Midwest and serving in the U.S. Army, to building a long, fulfilling career as an attorney and judge. He opens up about the values that shaped him along the way: integrity, loyalty, compassion, and the importance of playing the hand you’re dealt. In this heartfelt conversation, we explore the influence of family and marriage, the lessons learned from leadership on and off the bench, and how community continues to give life meaning in this season. With warmth, humility, and humor, Clark reminds us that legacy isn’t about titles — it’s about how we show up for others. Join us for a moving story of perspective, purpose, and living fully in the moment.