30 APR 2024 · In this enlightening episode, host Tim Mallad sits down with Ke’o Velasquez, Corporate Director of Operations and Hospitality at Forefront Living, and Alison Patt, President and Chief Executive Officer of Thomas Cuisine. They delve into the recent partnership between the two organizations and the array of services offered by Thomas Cuisine. The discussion covers day-to-day dining, evolving residential preferences ranging from formal dining to pop-up experiences and offering a diverse selection of foods including ethnic cuisines. The guests also discuss the topics of aging and wellness and the pivotal role food plays in these aspects. Additionally, they share insights on accommodating diverse preferences within a senior living community while maintaining freshness and interest. Tune in to this very special episode to gain valuable insights into the dynamic world of hospitality and senior living. About Ke’o Velasquez In his role as Forefront Living’s (FL) Corporate Director of Operations and Hospitality, Ke’o focuses on teammate engagement and retention, resident satisfaction and continuously improving the quality of services provided to residents and patients. Prior to joining FL, he served as Executive Director of The Preston of Park Cities, a luxury senior living community in Dallas, Texas. Before transitioning to senior living, Ke’o worked as Executive Sous Chef for The Four Seasons Resort and Club in Irving, Texas. In this position, he oversaw all aspects of the extensive culinary program. Ke’o is passionate about multi-ethnic cuisine, nutritional therapy, restaurant design and management with the highest expectations of hospitality standards and was also featured on Food Network’s Best Young Chefs of America program. When not serving seniors, he enjoys traveling to his native Hawaii, camping with his son, working on projects around the house and cooking in a hula skirt.    About Alison Patt Alison, President and Chief Executive Officer of Thomas Cuisine, joined the organization in October of 2020, and brought with her more than a decade of contract foodservice and hospitality experience, having served most recently as Group President of Continental Services, Detroit’s top independent contract dining management company. Alison has a proven background centered on developing high performing teams, driving meaningful growth, fostering enduring client relationships and demonstrating a strong commitment to servant leadership. “I am honored and excited to lead Thomas Cuisine. This organization is positioned for growth as it delivers custom food service solutions at the intersection of food, service and wellness. I look forward to leading Thomas Cuisines’ incredible teams in continuing to design customized solutions and healthy menus for our clients in healthcare, senior dining and business and industry sectors. I embrace Thomas Cuisine’s commitment to improve the lives of others – one nutritious meal at a time.” – Alison Patt

3 APR 2024 · In this informative episode, host Tim Mallad engages in an enlightening conversation with Bella Vida (BV) VIPs, Phil and Karen Hunke, to reveal what attracted them to BV, an upcoming Forefront Living (FL) senior living community in San Antonio. The couple shares insights from their exploration of senior living options, guided by positive recommendations from friends. They discuss essential features they sought in their future home, emphasizing the significance of personalization options and the vibrant South Texas culture featured at BV. Additionally, the Hunkes complimented the transparency of financial matters and FL leadership’s receptiveness to feedback. Looking ahead, they eagerly anticipate a fulfilling quality of life as they age, especially through the lively atmosphere and socialization offered within the BV community. Don’t miss this very special episode, as Phil and Karen Hunke share their journey into premiere senior living, highlighting the importance of proactive planning for a meaningful life at every stage.   About Phil and Karen Hunke San Antonio residents Phil and Karen Hunke are avid world travelers who also love the outdoors. Phil is a retired pediatric dentist and he and Karen share a passion for philanthropy, particularly in supporting oral health care for special needs children. The Hunkes provided funding for the Phil and Karen Hunke Special Care Clinic, a dental clinic at UT Health San Antonio School of Dentistry, ensuring that individuals of all ages with disabilities are able to receive high-quality oral health care in a welcoming environment designed specifically for them, their families and their caregivers.

28 FEB 2024 · In this educational episode, host Tim Mallad sits down with Estee Cahani, Director of Rehabilitation at Presbyterian Village North (PVN), and Dr. Cynthia Logan, PVN resident and physical therapy patient, to shed light on the benefits of therapy, discussing the areas of physical, occupational and speech therapy. The conversation covers practical questions such as eligibility for therapy, the assessment process and the workings of outpatient therapy. Additionally, the guests discuss the emotional aspects of therapy, addressing how to support individuals navigating pain and discouragement. Dr. Logan shares her personal journey, reflecting on her initial challenges and the invaluable support received from therapists. She also offers insights into the role her faith played in her journey, especially during moments of hopelessness. Tune in for this very special episode highlighting how therapy serves as a cornerstone of care and the importance of prioritizing wellness at every stage of life. About Estee Cahani Born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, Estee received her bachelor’s degree in Exercise Physiology from the University of New Orleans. In 2008, she moved to Dallas to attend the Texas Woman’s University Doctor of Physical Therapy program. While there, through completing a clinical at the former Grace Presbyterian Village (Grace), Estee became familiar with Forefront Living. “I fell in love with their culture and mission and vowed that I’d work there someday after I graduated,” she said. Upon earning her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in 2011 and after gaining experience, Estee returned to Grace as an Outpatient Physical Therapist in 2014. In 2017, Estee was named Assistant Director of Rehabilitation at Presbyterian Village North and then Director of Rehabilitation in 2020, a position she still holds today. Estee is married and is the mother of two young and energetic sons that keep her extremely busy! About Dr. Cynthia Logan Dr. Cynthia Logan, Ph.D. and minister, holds a bachelor’s degree from Sam Houston State University, a master’s from Presbyterian School of Christian Education and a Master of Divinity from Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. She has been an active resident at Presbyterian Village North since 2016 and a physical therapy patient, under the care of Estee, since 2017.

19 JAN 2024 · In this insightful episode, host Tim Mallad sits down with Jason Whitely, Senior Political Reporter at WFAA/Channel 8 in Dallas/Fort Worth, to delve into the dos and don'ts of interacting with the media, offering valuable insight for individuals and organizations alike. From discussing topics that capture journalists’ attention to navigating crisis communication, the conversation also provides awareness for best practices during interviews. The discussion emphasizes the significance of building positive relationships with journalists, underscoring that personal connections can be a benefit. In addition, the episode highlights that any organization, including senior living communities, has the potential to play an expert role in its field. Tune in for this very special episode highlighting media interactions and organizational communication strategies. About Jason Whitely Jason Whitely is the Senior Political Reporter at WFAA in Dallas / Fort Worth and host of https://www.wfaa.com/insidetexaspolitics, a weekly political television program that is broadcast statewide every Sunday morning on eleven Texas television stations. Jason also co-hosts the https://www.wfaa.com/yallitics political podcast which has more than a million downloads. Jason's reporting has earned 24 Emmy Awards, three Edward R. Murrow Awards, and two dozen others. He won the Emmy for Best General Assignment Reporter in 2019, 2018, 2017, 2010 and 2005. In 2023, D Magazine named Jason as Best TV Broadcaster in its annual Best of Big D list.

11 DEC 2023 · In this compelling episode, host Tim Mallad welcomes distinguished guest John “Lucky” Luckadoo, former B-17 Flying Fortress pilot, the last living original pilot of the World War II Eighth Air Force 100th Bomb Group and Presbyterian Village North (PVN) resident, to explore his remarkable life and the significance of keeping his historical recounts alive. The two discuss Lucky’s book, Damn Lucky (https://www.amazon.com/Damn-Lucky-Bloodiest-Military-Campaign/dp/1250274389), detailing how that project came to life during the pandemic, and preview two upcoming, remarkable projects including an interactive holographic representation of Lucky coming soon to the National WWII Museum in New Orleans. In addition, his group, “The Bloody Hundredth”, will be featured in a docu-series entitled Masters of the Air (https://tv.apple.com/us/show/masters-of-the-air/umc.cmc.7bxcni0vwgll9kmicq738k5q2), scheduled to premiere in January of 2024, on Apple Plus. This special episode highlights the vital role storytelling plays in keeping history alive and serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made for our freedoms. ABOUT LUCKY: John Luckadoo was a wide-eyed 21-year-old lieutenant assigned to the Eighth Air Force’s 100th Bomb Group when he manned the controls and took to the sky for his first bombing mission as co-pilot of a famed B-17 Flying Fortress. The aeronautical revelation at Luckadoo’s fingertips could fly at altitudes of 35,000 feet for up to 2,800 miles and carried a hefty bomb payload supplemented by ten .50-caliber machine guns. Luckadoo goes by Lucky, a nickname he earned while flying bombing runs over Nazi-occupied France and Germany. His group known as “The Bloody Hundredth” suffered staggering high casualties. By the war’s end in 1945, 36 of Luckadoo’s 40 classmates from flight school had either withdrawn from flying, been shot down, or killed in action. John “Lucky” Luckadoo earned the Distinguished Flying Cross for his actions during WWII. He currently resides at Presbyterian Village North in Dallas, Texas.

27 SEP 2023 · In this insightful episode, host Tim Mallad welcomes Cheryl Harding, President and CEO of Fort Worth’s James L. West Center for Dementia Care, to discuss the organization’s mission to provide personalized, innovative care and compassionate support for families grappling with the challenges of dementia. The two discuss the center's advocacy for specialized education for caregivers, healthcare professionals and the wider community in the realm of dementia care. This multifaceted approach is aimed at changing the stigma associated with the diagnosis and inspiring a newfound sense of hope and joy for individuals and families facing this challenging journey. This organization is incorporating the following hashtag and launching a campaign centered on this theme: #FindingJoyInDementia. Join us for this very special episode as Cheryl and Tim's discussion showcases the power of empathy, innovation and dedication in the pursuit of a brighter future for those impacted by dementia. About Cheryl Harding, Ph.D., LNFA In 2018, Cheryl Harding was named president and CEO of Fort Worth’s James L. West Alzheimer Center. Harding earned a Ph.D. in Family Studies (Gerontology) from Texas Woman’s University in Denton and holds her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Louisiana at Monroe. Harding was awarded her Licensed Nursing Home Administrator certificate by Texas in 2003, and selected as Administrator of the Year in 2007 by LeadingAge Texas. Harding and her husband, Glen, have two teenage sons and four adult children. About James L. West Center for Dementia Care James L. West Center for Dementia Care is a faith-inspired, not-for-profit organization serving persons impacted by dementia. James L. West is founded on the love and compassion of Eunice P. West, who witnessed the devastating effects of Alzheimer’s disease on her husband, Fort Worth business leader and philanthropist James L. West. As a caregiver, Mrs. West understood the hardships families face, at a time when services for people with dementia were not commonly available. To honor her husband’s memory, Mrs. West directed the James L. and Eunice P. West Charitable Trust, through First Presbyterian Church of Fort Worth, to provide major funding to build a nondenominational facility dedicated to the care of people living with Alzheimer’s and related disorders.

15 AUG 2023 · About this Episode Welcome back to the second installment of our podcast series centered around the evolving design in senior living. In part one of our discussions, we explored the shifts in design philosophy and innovative approaches that are reshaping senior living communities. Today, we're excited to dive into the tangible manifestations of these changes – the designs that are coming to life. Host Tim Mallad, discusses an array of design components with designer Bridget Bohacz, drawing wisdom from the recent updates at Presbyterian Village North they explore the lessons learned that have been skillfully translated into the design of The Outlook at Windhaven and the future design of Bella Vida at La Cantera (BVALC). Special attention is paid to the overarching theme guiding BVALC’s design journey and the backdrop of a senior living landscape undergoing a continual metamorphosis. The spotlight is shared across all Forefront Living communities with glimpses of what's on the horizon for the future. This episode is your ticket to an exclusive tour through the visual evolution that's shaping the very essence of senior living. About Bridget Bohacz Bridget Bohacz received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Michigan State University in the early eighties. With a strong interest in history and classical architecture, Bridget began her career in senior living interior design working for Oxford Retirement Services, Inc. In 1989, Bridget founded Bridget Bohacz & Associates, Inc., (BBA). The company specializes in senior living interiors to create interesting and fresh housing options for seniors across the country. For the past 25 years, they have worked to curate senior living communities that are reflective of the architectural styles and design preferences found in each region, community or neighborhood. Every BBA community is filled with local flavor - art, historical artifacts, photography and hand-crafted art objects that are made by local and regional artisans.

28 JUL 2023 · In this educational episode, host Tim Mallad welcomes guests Dr. Michael Bond and Dan Naegeli, to discuss an exciting partnership between Forefront Living (FL) and Greenville University, a four-year Christian liberal arts school in Greenville, IL, to develop and run an immersive education program called the Healthcare Experience Institute (HEI), coming to the campus of the T. Boone Pickens Hospice Center in January 2024. In this informative podcast, Tim and his special guests discuss highlights of the innovative program dedicated to undergraduate students majoring in Biology/Biochemistry (Pre-Med), Nursing, Health, Social Work, Psychology, Social Services, Ministry, Religious Studies, Business, Non-Profit Management or other related areas. HEI students will receive a blend of classroom learning and field experience after being paired with teammates to shadow throughout their semester, based on their interests and abilities. In addition to field work with patients and families, students will assist with established programs such as Camp Faith, Celebration of Life ceremonies, the Each Moment Matters Luncheon, Support Groups and others, to fully understand the services offered by FL and each of its entities. Experienced FL teammates serving as HEI course faculty members and professional development seminar speakers are excited to educate the next generation on providing exceptional hospice care. Join us for this very special episode to learn more about HEI, an experiential education model teaching students the business of compassionate holistic healthcare with a focus on end-of-life care. Visit https://heidallas.org/ to learn more. About Dr. Michael Bond Dr. Bond is board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine, the American Board of Osteopathic Family Physicians, and the Board of Certification in Emergency Medicine by the American Board of Physician Specialists. Dr. Bond has been engaged in end-of-life care for the past 13 years and became certified in hospice and palliative care in 2011. He actively practices emergency medicine and hospice and palliative care medicine in the Dallas Metroplex. In November 2017, Dr. Bond joined Faith Presbyterian Hospice as a Medical Director and a year later was appointed as Chief Medical Officer and Medical Director. He currently provides daily oversight for all medical operations which includes a 36-bed inpatient unit for severely ill hospice patients. Dr. Bond has a passion for end-of-life care and is recognized as an expert and thought leader in this evolving field of medicine. In addition to his military decorations and other civilian recognitions, he is a life member of the National Eagle Scout Association. Dr. Bond resides with his wife and their three children in Plano, Texas. He enjoys cooking, saltwater reef aquaria and medical history. About Dan Naegeli After more than 30 years in college and university-level career services, Dan currently serves as Executive Director for the Healthcare Experience Institute, a pioneering immersive learning program. He is honored to help curate a program designed to develop students' skills in the field of hospice and healthcare. In his role at HEI, Dan focuses on student development through a comprehensive curriculum covering essential healthcare skills, hospice expertise and relevant industry knowledge. HEI strives to provide hands-on experience in real healthcare settings to help students make informed decisions about their future in the healthcare industry.

30 MAY 2023 · About this episode In this insightful episode, host Tim Mallad welcomes designer Bridget Bohacz, to discuss the evolution of design styles in senior living communities across the country. In this thirty-minute podcast, Tim and Bridget review popular design elements desired by senior living community residents including ample storage space, abundant natural lighting and high-quality materials. In addition, they examine current community trends incorporating state-of-the-art performance halls and dedicated conference rooms and training center spaces for resident use. Finally, Bridget and Tim discuss the progression of dining preferences, with modern-day seniors seeking healthy food choices and variety within community dining venues. Join us for this very special episode to learn more about the beautiful transformations occurring in senior living communities and view some of the showstopping elements planned for future Forefront Living communities. About Bridget Bohacz Bridget Bohacz received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Michigan State University in the early eighties. With a strong interest in history and classical architecture, Bridget began her career in senior living interior design working for Oxford Retirement Services, Inc. In 1989, Bridget founded Bridget Bohacz & Associates, Inc., (BBA). The company specializes in senior living interiors to create interesting and fresh housing options for seniors across the country. For the past 25 years, they have worked to curate senior living communities that are reflective of the architectural styles and design preferences found in each region, community or neighborhood. Every BBA community is filled with local flavor - art, historical artifacts, photography and hand-crafted art objects that are made by local and regional artisans.

28 APR 2023 · In this insightful episode, host Tim Mallad welcomes special guests Reverend Denise Odom, Director of Spiritual Life for Presbyterian Village North, and Rabbi Howard Wolk, community chaplain with Jewish Family Service of Greater Dallas. This trio spends 30 minutes discussing faith and religion, working at faith-based organizations, including hospice services and senior living, while also serving those considered non-religiously affiliated. The Reverend and Rabbi offer guidance on respecting and recognizing religions outside of anyone’s personal faith. They remind audience members that everyone is connected through the commonality of humanity – often sharing similar feelings and emotions during times of joy and sorrow. The guests highlight the demonstration of faith through the practice of core values, sharing that a minister’s objective, regardless of a patient or resident’s religious affiliation, is to offer comfort and companionship during times of crises, while practicing the Golden Rule of loving one another. Join us for this informative podcast designed to help audience members recognize that faith-based organizations do not seek to build barriers through religious rigor, but instead wish to overcome obstacles to build personal connections with those they serve. About the guests Rabbi Howard Wolk serves as community chaplain with the Jewish Family Service of Greater Dallas. He was born in the Bronx and grew up in Queens, New York. Rabbi Wolk moved with his family to Dallas, where he first became the founding Rabbi of Congregation Shaare Tefilla. He continues to be a strong role model and active leader within Dallas’s Jewish community and with many organizations, including Jewish Family Service and the Jewish Federation of Greater Dallas. Reverend Denise Odom serves as Director of Spiritual Life for Presbyterian Village North where she and the PVN Spiritual Care team assist residents in their spiritual growth through council, community worship and service to others. She and her husband, Andy, have been married for more than 20 years and have two daughters.