Episodios

  • Belonging: The Heart of Community—with Arthur Liggins & Candace Young-Schult

    Belonging: The Heart of Community—with Arthur Liggins & Candace Young-Schult
    Feb 9 2026
    Carlsbad By The Sea residents Arthur and Candace were born in adjacent towns in Virginia, but their lives unfolded along very different paths. While Art, with the support of his church community, was navigating life under Jim Crow eventually finding his path in the military, Candace became a school psychologist in rural Illinois, where she learned to gather scarce resources to improve student outcomes. They found their way back to each other, becoming fast friends at Carlsbad By The Sea, where they run a women's and men's group respectively. Arthur and Candace join host Anna Hall for a fascinating discussion on the many ways our various communities empower us to keep us safe, lift us up and help us thrive. Chapters 00:44 – Why Belonging Matters Anna frames the episode around belonging as a basic human psychological need essential to well-being and motivation. 02:13 – The Front Porch Belonging Statement Anna shares Front Porch's Belonging Statement and sets the tone for the conversation ahead. 02:48 – Meet Arthur and Candace Arthur Liggins and Candace Young-Schult are introduced, along with their backgrounds and paths to Carlsbad by the Sea. 04:02 – Born in Adjacent Virginia Towns A surprising connection emerges as Arthur and Candace discover they were born in neighboring towns but lived very different lives. 04:54 – Growing Up Under Jim Crow Arthur reflects on navigating segregation, pressure and resilience while growing up in Jim Crow–era Virginia. 06:06 – The Church as a Safe Haven Arthur shares how church and mentorship provided safety, belonging, and guidance in a hostile environment. 07:06 – Candace's Early Life and Education Candace describes growing up in Illinois within an academic community shaped by curiosity and cultural exposure. 08:03 – Anna's Personal Connection Anna relates her connection to both Art and Candace stories as the biracial daughter of a Black father who grew up under segregation and later became a college professor. 09:23 – Candace's Career as a School Psychologist Candace discusses working in rural Illinois schools and learning how communities come together with limited resources. 11:36 – Listening Without Judgment Candace reflects on the importance of curiosity, listening and suspending judgment in human relationships. 12:02 – College and the Civil Rights Movement Arthur recounts participating in sit-ins while balancing ROTC obligations during the height of the Civil Rights era. 14:03 – Military Life and Leadership Arthur shares lessons from his Air Force career, including navigating race, leadership and opportunity. 16:42 – Choosing Carlsbad by the Sea Arthur and Candace explain what drew them to CBTS and how the move became a meaningful transition. 18:26 – Creating the Men's Group Arthur describes facilitating the men's group as a space for fellowship, dialogue and mutual respect. 20:57 – Creating the Women's Group Candace explains how the women's group fosters deeper connection, learning and community building. 22:44 – "I Belong Here" The conversation centers on intentional belonging—creating spaces where people feel seen, missed and valued. 24:09 – Inclusion Takes Intention Arthur and Candace discuss how inclusion requires effort, invitation and care, especially post-pandemic. 25:35 – Advice for Those Considering Senior Living Arthur and Candace reflect on CBTS as home, challenging common assumptions about senior living. 26:56 – A Third Chapter of Life Arthur describes this stage of life as a "third awakening," focused on contribution, connection and purpose. 28:02 – Gratitude and Closing Reflections Anna thanks Arthur and Candace for their leadership and care as the episode comes to a close. Key Takeaways ● Belonging is a basic human psychological need and essential for motivation and well-being. ● Community does not happen by accident; it requires intention, inclusion, and leadership. ● Listening with curiosity—not judgment—is foundational to meaningful connection. ● Safe spaces allow people to share, heal, and grow, especially later in life. ● Senior living communities can be places of continued growth, purpose, and engagement. ● Relationships—between residents, staff, and neighbors—are what truly make a place feel like home. Resources mentioned: Carlsbad By The Sea - a Front Porch Community Front Porch Communities & Services Front Porch Foundation Guest Bios: Arthur Liggins grew up in a segregated community in Virginia. After high school he attended an all-black college in Greensboro, North Carolina, majoring in engineering and was accepted in the advanced ROTC program. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the US Air Force upon graduation in 1963 where he met his wife, Eloise, who was also an Air Force officer. Arthur retired from the Air Force after twenty years and then worked ...
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    29 m
  • Commander Beth Coye: A Warrior for Equality

    Commander Beth Coye: A Warrior for Equality
    Jan 26 2026
    Beth F. Coye, a retired U.S. Navy Commander, writer, and Wesley Palms resident, shares her remarkable journey as a life-long advocate for social justice. From authoring a groundbreaking study on women in the Navy, to helping shape lasting change through her work on the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell, Beth has been a warrior for equality and inclusion. Now at Wesley Palms, Beth has continued her activism by establishing the first LGBTQ+ group for residents and team members. In this episode, Beth reflects on "what makes her come alive," reminding us that bravery is not separate from community—but essential to its growth. Chapters 00:45 – Standing with and Standing up to Community Host Anna Hall asks: what happens when you feel betrayed by your own community? And how can speaking up help a community to evolve. 01:33 – Meet Beth F. Coye Beth's background as a retired U.S. Navy Commander, educator, writer, and Wesley Palms resident. 02:17 – Leaving the Navy: Betrayal and Bravery Beth shares why she retired early after being targeted for her sexual orientation. 03:02 – Belonging in the Military Finding purpose and professional belonging while serving in intelligence and NATO-related roles. 04:38 – The Coye Study and Advancing Women in the Navy How Beth led a landmark study that helped open ranks and opportunities for women. 06:49 – Family, Expectations, and Choosing a Path Reflections on her parents, independence, and what drew her to the Navy. 08:00 – Military Brat to Warrior Spirit Beth's childhood, identity, and sense of service shaped by military family life. 09:27 – Love, Identity, and Life in the Closet Personal reflections on love, secrecy, and the emotional cost of hiding one's identity. 11:21 – Coming Out Beth discusses coming out to her parents and later living openly after leaving the Navy. 13:51 – My Navy Too Beth introduces her book and its importance for understanding women's and LGBTQ+ experiences in the Navy. 15:04 – Repealing "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" Beth's activism and lobbying work in Washington, D.C., to support repeal efforts. 17:12 – Finding Community at Wesley Palms Life as the first openly lesbian resident at Wesley Palms and helping build LGBTQ+ visibility and inclusion. 18:08 – Continuing Activism in Senior Living Launching an LGBTQ+ gathering and serving as Resident Representative. 21:33 – What Matters Now Aging, companionship, purpose, and joy in later life. 22:12 – Meet CT Beth introduces her dog CT and reflects on care, connection, and community support. 24:26 – Final Reflections Beth shares a quote from Howard Thurman and a call to live fully and authentically. Key Takeaways Belonging is a fundamental human need—but true belonging often requires courage. Bravery is not the absence of fear; it is choosing integrity and service despite risk. Systems change when individuals speak up, document inequities, and persist. Identity suppression can have profound psychological costs, comparable to trauma. Purpose and activism do not end with retirement—they evolve. Inclusive senior living communities can be powerful spaces for continued growth, leadership, and advocacy. Living fully means doing what makes you come alive, at every stage of life. Resources Mentioned My Navy Too, a novel by Beth F. Coye The Coye Study – Landmark study on the status of women in the Navy Z-116 Policy Change – Career and advancement reforms for women in the Navy Service Members Legal Defense Network (SMLDN) – Advocacy organization supporting LGBTQ+ service members Don't Ask, Don't Tell Repeal Howard Thurman – Theologian and author, quoted at the end of the episode The Military Brat by Mary Wertsch W.A.V.E.S Women Accepted for Voluntary Emergency Service Guest Bio Beth F. Coye is a retired U.S. Navy commander. She had two sub-specialties on active duty: Intelligence/National Security and Human Resource Management, and was one of the first women to command a shore activity. A graduate of Wellesley College, the American University School of International Service and the School of Naval Warfare, Beth taught International Relations, Seapower, and Organizational Development at the Naval War College, and Political Science at Mesa Community College; University of San Diego; and San Diego State. A freelance writer and activist, she lives in Pacific Beach, California. Since 2019, Beth has called Wesley Palms home. Host Bio Anna Hall is a purpose-driven leader with over 25 years in senior living, spanning employee engagement, life enrichment, training, and innovation in age-tech and program design. A certified life coach and dynamic speaker, she helps people connect with meaning and motivation at every stage of life. She is the creator of The Purpose Equation®, an evidence-informed framework that empowers individuals to define and activate their unique purpose to enhance wellbeing, engagement, and collaboration. As Chief Culture & ...
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    26 m
  • "It's Not Just Housekeeping": What Gives Work Meaning? A conversation with Randi Jorgenson

    "It's Not Just Housekeeping": What Gives Work Meaning? A conversation with Randi Jorgenson
    Jan 12 2026

    Randi Jorgenson began her career as a housekeeper at Spring Lake Village and now leads a team of 36 employees while overseeing 400 resident apartments in her role as Housekeeping Manager. In this episode, Randi reflects on how opportunities for growth and advancement, respect for each team member's unique contributions, and a strong community culture are essential ingredients in nurturing team members' commitment to an organization. From everyday moments of connection to navigating fires, evacuations, and COVID, she shares what it truly means to serve with purpose and heart.

    Chapters

    00:44 - Rethinking Community in Senior Living
    Host Anna Hall reflects on how community functions as an interconnected ecosystem.

    04:19 - Meet Randi Jorgensen
    Randi's 35-year journey at Spring Lake Village, from housekeeper to housekeeping manager.

    04:50 From Job to Calling
    What drew Randi to senior living and why she stayed.

    06:22 Leadership, Trust, and Follow-Through
    How consistency and reliability build trust with residents and staff.

    08:24 - Housekeeping as Care Work
    The role of housekeeping staff as the "eyes and ears" of the community.

    09:02 - Moments That Matter
    Stories of resident connection, appreciation, and aging in place.

    11:44 - Crisis and Commitment
    Navigating fires, evacuations, and COVID as essential workers.

    12:48 Purpose, Growth, and Gratitude
    What Randi has learned about life, work, and staying open to growth.

    13:25 - Looking Back with Pride
    Reflecting on a career built on service and community.

    Key Takeaways

    • Employee retention grows where people feel valued, trusted, and respected.

    • Purposeful work often comes from everyday acts of care, not job titles.

    • Housekeeping plays a critical, relational role in senior living communities.

    • Opportunities for growth and advancement encourage long-term commitment.

    • Strong communities are built through follow-through, presence, and heart.

    • Crisis moments reveal the depth of care, resilience, and shared responsibility.

    Guest Bio:

    Randi Jorgenson is the Housekeeping Manager at Spring Lake Village. After joining Spring Lake Village as a housekeeper in May 1990, Randi has been serving Spring Lake Village residents with increasing levels of responsibility ever since. She was first promoted to lead housekeeper, scheduling the maintenance of (then) 260 cottages and apartments, before being promoted to Housekeeping Manager overseeing the teams that clean homes for the more than 400 people who live at Spring Lake Village. Randi has a passion for animals and enjoys spending time with family and friends. She has a daughter and has been happily married for over 25 years.

    Host Bio:

    Anna Hall is a purpose-driven leader with over 25 years in senior living, spanning employee engagement, life enrichment, training, and innovation in age-tech and program design. A certified life coach and dynamic speaker, she helps people connect with meaning and motivation at every stage of life. She is the creator of The Purpose Equation®, an evidence-informed framework that empowers individuals to define and activate their unique purpose to enhance wellbeing, engagement, and collaboration. As Chief Culture & Community Officer at Front Porch Communities & Services, Anna leads initiatives that foster belonging, creativity, and human thriving—building communities where everyone feels valued and inspired to make a difference.


    Resources Mentioned

    • Spring Lake Village – A Front Porch community in Santa Rosa, California

    • Front Porch Communities and Services – Nonprofit organization supporting engaged senior living and community services

    The views and opinions expressed on this podcast are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered, legal, health, tax, or professional advice. Always consult a licensed professional for specific advice related to your situation.

    #FrontPorchPodcast
    #PurposeThroughWork
    #MoreThanHousekeeping
    #EmployeeRetention
    #MeaningfulWork
    #SeniorLiving
    #CommunityCare
    #LeadershipWithHeart
    #FrontlineLeadership
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    15 m
  • Welcome Love, Welcome the Stranger - with David E. Jackson (Part 2)

    Welcome Love, Welcome the Stranger - with David E. Jackson (Part 2)
    Dec 29 2025
    After losing his beloved wife of 50 years, David embraces a new chapter of life. From leading inclusive Shabbat services at St. Paul's Towers, to teaching a class of boisterous first graders, to learning to fall in love…again, David shows us how acceptance of loss and grief, as an essential part of life, can lead to healing and transformation. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction Anna Hall sets the stage for Part 2, "Welcome Love, Welcome the Stranger." 00:27 – Opening to Love Again David describes falling in love after loss and how relationships evolve with age. 04:01 – Creating Inclusive Shabbat at St. Paul's Towers How David stepped into a spiritual leadership role and built a welcoming, accessible service for people of all backgrounds. 06:33 – "Welcome the Stranger": The Most Repeated Phrase in the Torah David explains the ancient and deeply relevant Jewish teaching about hospitality, belonging, and shared humanity. 09:28 – Growing Older: Freedom, Fragility & Meaning David reflects on aging, mortality, creativity, and the shift from ambition to purpose. 11:27 – The Joy of First Graders How teaching Torah to first graders became David's purest form of love—and what children teach us about openness and wonder. 14:39 – Rebuilding Community in Later Life On courage, vulnerability, and the necessity of connection as our social circles shift with age. 16:30 – Acts of Kindness That Sustain Us A moving story about receiving rides to rehab from neighbors—many of them strangers. 18:22 – Vulnerability as Strength David shares why becoming more vulnerable has made his later years richer and more meaningful. 19:18 – Being Present at the End of Life Parting wisdom: the profound gift of simply showing up for a loved one at the threshold of death. Key Takeaways Love can return in unexpected and deeply authentic forms—especially when we allow ourselves to be vulnerable. Shabbat as sanctuary reminds us to rest, reflect, and create moments apart from the world's heaviness. "Welcome the stranger" is a foundational Jewish teaching, urging compassion, hospitality, and solidarity across differences. Aging brings clarity—less striving, more meaning, creativity, and connection. Children remind us how to love freely, listen deeply, and engage with curiosity. Community is essential to well-being, especially later in life; kindness, even in small moments, matters profoundly. Being present at the end of life is a sacred act that deepens our own sense of humanity and purpose. Resources Saint Paul's Towers – A Front Porch Community in Oakland, CA Spring Lake Village – A Front Porch Community in Santa Rosa, CA Front Porch Communities and Services Guest Bio After a career in education, Dr. David E. Jackson retired as Head of School for the San Francisco Day School in 2015. He and his wife joined the Spring Lake Village community in Santa Rosa before moving to St. Paul's Towers in Oakland in 2020. A widower after 50 years of marriage, David re-enacts his love of teaching by sharing stories from the Torah with young children at his local synagogue. Host Bio Anna Hall is a purpose-driven leader with over 25 years in senior living, spanning employee engagement, life enrichment, training, and innovation in age-tech and program design. A certified life coach and dynamic speaker, she helps people connect with meaning and motivation at every stage of life. She is the creator of The Purpose Equation®, an evidence-informed framework that empowers individuals to define and activate their unique purpose to enhance wellbeing, engagement, and collaboration. As Chief Culture & Community Officer at Front Porch Communities & Services, Anna leads initiatives that foster belonging, creativity, and human thriving—building communities where everyone feels valued and inspired to make a difference. If David's story inspired you, share this episode with a friend, family member, or colleague. Subscribe to The Front Porch Podcast for more stories of purpose, belonging, and community — and discover how we can all contribute to a life of connection. Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed on this podcast are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered, legal, health, tax, or professional advice. Always consult a licensed professional for specific advice related to your situation. #GriefAndHealing #LoveAfterLoss #WelcomeTheStranger #Shabbat #SpiritualJourney #AgingWell #CommunityMatters #ElderStories #JewishWisdom #TeachingKids #FrontPorchPodcast #Resilience #VulnerabilityIsStrength #LifeAfter50Years
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    21 m
  • Who Shall Live? Growing Through Grief with David E. Jackson (Part 1)

    Who Shall Live? Growing Through Grief with David E. Jackson (Part 1)
    Dec 16 2025
    David E. Jackson spent his career as an educator, but some of his most profound "life lessons" have come out of navigating loss and grief. After evacuating his Santa Rosa home during the Glass Fire and relocating to St. Paul's Towers at the height of Covid, David faced the heartbreaking loss of his beloved wife of 50 years to cancer. Yet in moving through the process of grief, David discovered something unexpected: a spiritual awakening, a new appreciation for life and love, and the sustaining power of community. Stay tuned for Part 2, Welcome Love, Welcome the Stranger, where David reflects on his renewed connection to his faith, the joy he finds in teaching first graders and the journey of opening his heart to a new love. Chapters 00:45 – Episode Theme: Growing Through Grief Anna opens with a heartfelt reflection on the first resident she lost in her career and the recent passing of her father and how her community has supported her through grief and gratitude. 03:30 – Introducing Dr. David E. Jackson Anna welcomes Dr. David E. Jackson, retired Head of School at San Francisco Day School and now a resident of Saint Paul's Towers in Oakland. 04:10 – The Night of the Fire David recounts fleeing the 2020 Glass Fire with his wife, Phyllis, who was undergoing cancer treatment—and the small act of kindness that helped them escape. 05:48 – "Who Shall Live, Who by Fire" As Yom Kippur dawned the next morning, David found new meaning in an ancient prayer about life, loss, and survival. 06:36 – A Community That Opened Its Doors Saint Paul's Towers welcomed David and Phyllis in the midst of the pandemic, offering refuge and compassion. 07:36 – Becoming a Caregiver David reflects on caring for his wife through her illness, the return of her cancer, and the emotional intensity of that journey. 08:52 – Hospice and Compassion in Community He describes the quiet, wise support of neighbors and staff who knew how to offer comfort without asking for explanations. 10:12 – The Final Two Weeks David recounts the profound connection he felt as Phyllis neared the end of her life—two souls joined in presence and love. He shares the moment of her passing and how it reshaped his understanding of life, death, and the mystery beyond. 13:19 – Grief as a Life Force He explains why he sees grief not as sadness, but as an active, transforming power that happens to us, not by us. 14:13 – "This Grief" – A Poem by David E. Jackson David reads his original poem written three days after Phyllis's passing, exploring grief as both pain and blessing. 16:07 – Learning to Be With Grief David and Anna discuss how our culture avoids grief and how sitting with it—doing "nothing"—can lead to healing and self-understanding. 18:14 – The Necessity of Hard Things Together they reflect on the inevitability of grief and the human design for emotional growth through hardship. 18:26 – The Loss of Ancient Wisdom David laments how modern life separates us from death, depriving us of the deep connection that comes from being present with those we love at life's end. 19:50 – Closing & Transition to Part Two Anna thanks David and invites listeners to join Part 2: "Welcome Love, Welcome the Stranger," where the conversation continues about renewal, purpose, and finding love after loss. Key Takeaways Grief is not sadness — it's a force that transforms. It shapes us, opens us, and connects us more deeply with others. Community matters. The compassion of neighbors and caregivers at Saint Paul's Towers helped David through unimaginable loss. Love transcends life and death. Presence at the end of life can reveal the purest forms of connection. Ancient rituals still speak today. The Yom Kippur prayer, "Who by fire, who by water," took on new meaning through lived experience. We are meant to grow through difficulty. Avoiding grief postpones transformation; embracing it leads to wisdom. Resources mentioned Saint Paul's Towers – A Front Porch Community in Oakland, CA Spring Lake Village – A Front Porch Community in Santa Rosa, CA Front Porch Communities and Services Guest Bio After a career in education, Dr. David E. Jackson retired as Head of School for the San Francisco Day School in 2015. He and his wife joined the Spring Lake Village community in Santa Rosa before moving to St. Paul's Towers in Oakland in 2020. A widower after 50 years of marriage, David re-enacts his love of teaching by sharing stories from the Torah with young children at his local synagogue. Host Bio Anna Hall is a purpose-driven leader with over 25 years in senior living, spanning employee engagement, life enrichment, training, and innovation in age-tech and program design. A certified life coach and dynamic speaker, she helps people connect with meaning and motivation at every stage of life. She is the creator of The Purpose Equation®, an evidence-informed framework that empowers individuals to define and activate their unique ...
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    21 m
  • Former Pro-Wrestler Victor Ceron Pays it Forward

    Former Pro-Wrestler Victor Ceron Pays it Forward
    Dec 1 2025
    Before Victor Ceron fell in love with senior living he was known in the pro-wrestling world as "Kafu: The Brazilian Beast." In this episode, Victor shares how his early experiences growing up in Mexico, and his time in the wrestling world shaped his deep appreciation for culture and authenticity. Now, as the Vice President of Project Management at Front Porch, Victor reflects on what it means to lead with love, find strength in community and to "pay it forward" to the next generation. Chapters: 00:00 – IntroductionAnna introduces The Front Porch Podcast and today's theme: the power of culture in shaping belonging. 01:50 – Meet Victor CeronFrom professional wrestling as "Kafu, the Brazilian Beast" to building communities at Front Porch. 03:45 – Childhood in YucatánVictor recalls growing up with his grandparents, learning hard work and gratitude from life on a rural farm. 05:00 – The Run of the VirginA barefoot, five-day torch run teaches lessons in faith, teamwork, and shared purpose. 07:40 – Immigrating to the U.S.A 13-year-old Victor experiences culture shock, struggle, and community support that inspire his lifelong commitment to giving back. 10:15 – The Meaning of Paying It ForwardA shopkeeper's kindness leaves a lasting mark — and becomes Victor's philosophy for life. 12:30 – Becoming "Kafu" the Brazilian BeastInside the ring, Victor learns about storytelling, and connecting with people through authenticity. 17:45 – Leaving the RingFame and sacrifice collide as Victor steps away from wrestling to embrace family and a new calling. 18:36 – A Letter from RubyVictor shares an emotional letter from his daughter, reflecting the love and lessons of their relationship. 21:19 – Discovering Senior Living and his First "Senior Love"How construction work led Victor to a deeper purpose: creating environments where older adults feel safe, valued, and loved. A memory care resident reminds Victor of his grandfather — and shows him what true connection means. 25:00 – Lessons in Leadership and CommunityVictor reflects on the Front Porch and Covia merger, authenticity, vulnerability and what it takes to build a culture of belonging. 27:30 – Passing the TorchNow mentoring his son's wrestling ambitions, Victor shares wisdom about loving what you do and leading with your heart. 29:00 – Closing ReflectionsAnna and Victor discuss what it really means to "pay it forward" — through heart, humility, and humanity. Guest Bio: Before he started working in senior living communities, Front Porch's Vice President of Project Management Victor Ceron was a professional wrestler. As "Kafu, the Brazilian Beast," Victor performed with WWF/WWE around the world, but he says his true calling is in building. With degrees in HVAC, Electrical Specialization and Construction Management, Victor has built commercial facilities, residential homes and senior communities from the ground up. A father and grandfather, Victor is still involved in wrestling, training future stars like his son. Host Bio: Anna Hall is a purpose-driven leader with over 25 years in senior living, spanning employee engagement, life enrichment, training, and innovation in age-tech and program design. A certified life coach and dynamic speaker, she helps people connect with meaning and motivation at every stage of life. She is the creator of The Purpose Equation®, an evidence-informed framework that empowers individuals to define and activate their unique purpose to enhance wellbeing, engagement, and collaboration. As Chief Culture & Community Officer at Front Porch Communities & Services, Anna leads initiatives that foster belonging, creativity, and human thriving—building communities where everyone feels valued and inspired to make a difference. Resources Mentioned Front Porch Communities and Services Kafu: The Brazilian Beast If Victor's story inspired you, share this episode with a friend, family member, or colleague. Subscribe to The Front Porch Podcast for more stories of purpose, belonging, and community — and discover how we can all contribute to a life of connection. The views and opinions expressed on this podcast are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered, legal, health, tax, or professional advice. Always consult a licensed professional for specific advice related to your situation. #FrontPorchPodcast #KafuBrazilianBeast #ProfessionalWrestling #PayItForward #ImmigrantStories #CommunityMatters #Belonging #PurposefulLiving #Inclusion #SeniorLiving #Aging #Community #Intergenerational #SeniorLivingPodcast #RetirementCommunity
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    31 m
  • Building Belonging with Dorothy Astorga

    Building Belonging with Dorothy Astorga
    Nov 17 2025

    From her early years as member of a large migrant family—following the crops from town to town—to her work as a teacher, principal, and advocate, Dorothy Astorga has always understood the importance of community in fostering a sense of belonging and purpose. Now, living at Fredericka Manor, she continues her life's mission of creating community through cultural connections with Fredericka Manor's Culture Club. In this heartfelt conversation, she reminds us that true community grows when we listen, share, and celebrate the many voices that make us who we are.

    Chapters

    00:00–04:00 – Introduction: Purpose and belonging at Front Porch

    04:00–08:00 – Dorothy's early life and migrant roots

    08:00–12:00 – Finding her calling through education & joining the National Teacher Corps

    12:00–16:00 – Moving to Fredericka Manor & starting the Culture Club

    16:00–20:00 – The impact of inclusion and diversity on community

    20:00–24:00 – Finding renewed purpose at Fredericka Manor

    24:00–End – A life of service

    Key Takeaways

    • Belonging begins when we see and celebrate the uniqueness in each person.

    • Cultural exchange strengthens communities and fosters empathy.

    • Lifelong learning and service give meaning at every stage of life.

    • Inclusion isn't just policy — it's a practice of compassion and curiosity.

    • Community is built through shared stories, traditions, and joy.

    • We all have something to give — and something to learn.

    Guest Bio

    Dorothy Astorga is a lifelong educator, activist and community leader who grew up in a family of migrant farmworkers in California. The first in her family to graduate from college, she went on to serve as a teacher and principal, helping build multicultural and multilingual programs that celebrated diversity. Now a resident of Fredericka Manor, Dorothy leads the Culture Club and teaches Spanish, continuing her lifelong mission to build understanding and inclusion through culture and connection.

    Host Bio

    Anna Hall is a purpose-driven leader with over 25 years in senior living, spanning employee engagement, life enrichment, training, and innovation in age-tech and program design. A certified life coach and dynamic speaker, she helps people connect with meaning and motivation at every stage of life. She is the creator of The Purpose Equation®, an evidence-informed framework that empowers individuals to define and activate their unique purpose to enhance wellbeing, engagement, and collaboration. As Chief Culture & Community Officer at Front Porch Communities & Services, Anna leads initiatives that foster belonging, creativity, and human thriving—building communities where everyone feels valued and inspired to make a difference.

    Resources Mentioned

    • Front Porch Communities and Services

    • Fredericka Manor – a Front Porch community in Chula Vista, California

    • Culture Club at Fredericka Manor – resident-led program celebrating diversity through events, learning, and storytelling

    If Dorothy's story inspired you, share this episode with a friend, family member, or colleague. Subscribe to The Front Porch Podcast for more stories of purpose, belonging, and community — and discover how we can all contribute to a life of connection.

    The views and opinions expressed on this podcast are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered, legal, health, tax, or professional advice. Always consult a licensed professional for specific advice related to your situation.

    #FrontPorchPodcast #CommunityMatters #Belonging #PurposefulLiving #Inclusion #CultureClub #SeniorLivingWithPurpose #Aging #Community #SeniorLiving #Intergenerational #SeniorLivingPodcast #RetirementCommunity
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    26 m
  • Discovering Jean Owen

    Discovering Jean Owen
    Nov 3 2025
    Jean Owen always thought of herself as "somebody's someone" – first as her mother's daughter then as her husband's wife. It wasn't until she moved to Villa Gardens that she began stepping into her power as "Just Jean." As president of the resident council and key contributor to Sarah Friedland's award-winning film Familiar Touch (filmed on location at Villa Gardens), Jean has discovered a renewed sense of purpose and identity. Join us for this fascinating conversation about finding yourself and discovering the power of community at any (and every) age. Chapters (timestamps) 00:00 — Welcome & show intro 00:41 — Anna Hall on purpose, belonging & memory care 04:38 — Meet today's guest: Jean Owen (Pasadena roots) 05:46 — Teaching, volunteering & community building 06:28 — Adopt-a-School: seniors + elementary students 08:02 — Proactive planning & the decision to move to Villa Gardens 12:11 — What "four levels of care" means (independent to skilled) 14:20 — Resident Council President: a personal self-awakening 15:49 — Embracing life's "third act" 17:01 — Making the film Familiar Touch at Villa Gardens 18:24 — Why the story matters; residents as cast & collaborators 20:25 — Authenticity: filming in a real community 22:11 — Talking openly about aging & dementia 23:41 — Normal changes vs. dementia; learning to wait for words 25:02 — "You move to retirement community to live your fullest" 25:53 — What's next: LeadingAge screening & closing reflections 26:53 — Credits & thanks Key takeaways Community is a choice—and a catalyst for purpose and growth. Intergenerational connection changes attitudes on both sides. Proactive moves to senior living can increase independence and options. Authentic storytelling helps de-stigmatize dementia and aging. Leadership and identity can deepen in later life ("one of one"). Guest bio Jean Owen—Pasadena educator and community builder—helped launch Kidspace Children's Museum and coordinated Adopt-a-School partnerships (including Villa Gardens with Jefferson Elementary). Widowed in 2017, she moved to Villa Gardens, where she became Resident Council President and contributed to the film Familiar Touch—continuing her lifelong work of building community. Host Bio Anna Hall is a purpose-driven leader with over 25 years in senior living, spanning employee engagement, life enrichment, training, and innovation in age-tech and program design. A certified life coach and dynamic speaker, she helps people connect with meaning and motivation at every stage of life. She is the creator of The Purpose Equation®, an evidence-informed framework that empowers individuals to define and activate their unique purpose to enhance wellbeing, engagement, and collaboration. As Chief Culture & Community Officer at Front Porch Communities & Services, Anna leads initiatives that foster belonging, creativity, and human thriving—building communities where everyone feels valued and inspired to make a difference. Resources mentioned Villa Gardens Front Porch Communities & Services Kidspace Children's Museum (Pasadena) Familiar Touch (feature film shot at Villa Gardens) LeadingAge If this conversation resonated, share it with a friend, subscribe, and leave a review to help others discover the show. The views and opinions expressed on this podcast are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered, legal, health, tax, or professional advice. Always consult a licensed professional for specific advice related to your situation. #Aging #Community #SeniorLiving #Dementia #Purpose #Intergenerational #FamiliarTouch
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    28 m