The Front Porch Podcast

Inside the Kingsley Manor Fashion Show with Michael Essex and Amani Rose

What started as an ambitious idea for a resident fashion show became something much bigger: a powerful reminder of how much creative expression and visibility matters at any age. In this episode of The Front Porch Podcast, host Anna Hall talks with Kingsley Manor Life Enrichment team Michael Essex and Amani Rose about the real power of their work (sometimes known as "Activities" in senior living) and Michael and Amani share how this work can transform not only residents, but also the people called to serve in senior living. Chapters 00:39 - Welcome and Why Life Enrichment Matters Anna introduces the episode by reframing Life Enrichment as far more than activities. At its heart, the work is about relationships, belonging and helping people feel seen. 02:20 - Meet Michael Essex and Amani Rose Anna introduces Michael and Amani from Kingsley Manor, sharing their backgrounds in music, performing arts and senior living. Their creativity and heart shape everything they do in community. 03:49 - How the Fashion Show Began Michael explains how he pitched a resident fashion show early in his time at Kingsley Manor. Having not seen fashion for seniors, his goal was to create something bold that would help residents feel seen, valued and celebrated. 05:26 - Challenging Ageism Through Creativity The conversation turns to ageism and the assumptions people make about what older adults can or should do. Michael and Anna reflect on why creating vibrant, joyful experiences matters so deeply. 06:30 - Bringing the Runway to Kingsley Manor Michael and Amani describe how the fashion show comes together, from recruiting residents to bringing in makeup artists, stylists and run- -- way coaches. The event is designed as a true Hollywood-caliber experience. 08:32 - Community Buzz and Growing Momentum The team shares how the show began attracting attention from volunteers, industry professionals, and even a documentarian. What began as one event is growing into something much larger. 10:38 - Last Year's Impact Michael reflects on how the previous fashion show drew media attention and spotlighted residents in a powerful way, including a 105-year-old participant whose presence challenged stereotypes about aging. 12:59 - Resident Transformation Stories Michael and Amani share stories of residents who were initially hesitant but ended up shining on the runway. Their stories reveal how encouragement, trust, and relationship-building can unlock confidence and joy. 14:49 - This Year's Vision: Paris Meets LA The team previews this year's theme and reflects on how the fashion show has shaped Amani's experience at Kingsley Manor. The event has become a symbol of dreaming bigger in senior living. 17:10 - How Senior Living Changed Their Lives Amani and Michael open up about their personal journeys into this work and how they discovered purpose in a career in senior living Both describe senior living as meaningful, healing, and deeply connected to their own sense of purpose. 23:52 - Why Relationships Come First Michael explains that Life Enrichment is not really about activities at all, but about human connection. The relationships formed with residents and families often last far beyond a single role or community and are an important part of a career in senior living 26:01 - Never Too Late to Dream Again Michael shares his ultimate hope for the fashion show: that residents feel inspired to dream, try new things and embrace possibility at any age. Amani adds a story about identity and the power of being known as you truly are. Key Takeaways * Life Enrichment in senior living is about much more than scheduled activities. It is rooted in belonging, visibility and human connection. * Creative programs like Kingsley Manor's fashion show can challenge ageism and expand what people imagine is possible in later life, including for senior fashion. * When residents are invited to step into the spotlight, they often reveal confidence, joy and dimensions of themselves others have never seen before. * Senior living communities can be places of healing and connection, not only for residents, but also for staff and volunteers. * A career in senior living can help individuals discover their purpose. * It is never too late to evolve, express yourself and be recognized for who you are. Guest Bios Michael Essex started working with seniors over 10 years ago as a temporary plan while pursuing a music career. Originally from Grand Rapids, Michigan, Michael grew up traveling and performing as a background vocalist for major recording artists, beginning in high school. He has his Bachelor's degree in Communication and Assisted Social Services from Indiana Wesleyan University and has been Life Enrichment Director at Kingsley Manor for two years. Amani Rose, Life Enrichment Leader at Kingsley Manor, got her footing in senior living while volunteering at nursing homes throughout her childhood in Seattle, Washington. After studying performing arts at the Seattle Academy of Arts and Sciences, she attended Xavier University of Louisiana in New Orleans. In her role she plans events at Kingsley Manor, researches global holidays to bring their essence to the community and explores Los Angeles with residents. 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. Photo Credits (YouTube version) Serena Duffin Resources Mentioned Kingsley Manor [https://frontporch.net/community/kingsley-manor/], a Front Porch senior living community in Hollywood, CA Front Porch Communities and Services [https://frontporch.net/] Michael Essex Spotify Page [https://open.spotify.com/track/0UVWr40ywd4GRlHGZdUbz6?si=5d442714257b43d6&nd=1&dlsi=e6f0068292cc4caa] 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.

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

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 [https://frontporch.net/community/carlsbad-by-the-sea/?utm_campaign=gmb] Front Porch Communities & Services [https://frontporch.net/] Front Porch Foundation [https://frontporch.net/give/] 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 in the Aerospace industry for over twenty-five more. He and his wife have been residents of Carlsbad By The Sea for the past five years. Candace Young-Schult had a 25-year career as a school psychologist in the Illinois public schools before she and her husband moved to Southern California, their home now for 30 years. Together, they moved to Carlsbad By The Sea in 2018, seeking community and accessibility. An avid traveler, reader and lifelong member of choirs, Candace enjoys creative outlets like watercolor and beading, and her genuine interest in people drives her to engage fully with her community, including her role facilitating a women's breakfast discussion group. 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 Art and Candace'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. #WeBelongTogether #ThePowerOfBelonging #CommunityMatters #InclusiveLiving #AgingWell #SeniorLivingRedefined #FrontPorchCommunity #LeadershipAndCare #LifeStories #BlackHistoryMonth #CivilRightsMovement

Commander Beth Coye: A Warrior for Equality

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 [https://www.amazon.com/My-Navy-Too-Beth-Coye/dp/0965857808] * 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 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Don%27t_Ask,_Don%27t_Tell_Repeal_Act_of_2010] * Howard Thurman [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Howard_Thurman] – Theologian and author, quoted at the end of the episode * The Military Brat by Mary Wertsch [https://www.amazon.com/Military-Brats-Legacies-Childhood-Fortress/dp/0977603326] * W.A.V.E.S Women Accepted for Voluntary Emergency Service [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WAVES] 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 & 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 Beth'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 #SeniorLiving #AgingWithPurpose #LGBTQSeniors #WomenVeterans #MilitaryHistory #InclusiveCommunities #LivingFully #BraveryAndBelonging #DontAskDontTell #WesleyPalms #FrontPorchCommunities

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

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 [https://frontporch.net/community/spring-lake-village/] – A Front Porch community in Santa Rosa, California * Front Porch Communities and Services [https://frontporch.net/] – 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

Welcome Love, Welcome the Stranger - with David E. Jackson (Part 2)

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 [https://frontporch.net/community/st-pauls-towers/] – A Front Porch Community in Oakland, CA Spring Lake Village [https://frontporch.net/community/spring-lake-village/] – A Front Porch Community in Santa Rosa, CA Front Porch Communities and Services [https://frontporch.net/] 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