Elevate Your Everyday with Elim Park

In the series premiere episode of Voices of Elim, Lauren sits down with Elim Park resident Barbara Welker Griggs to talk about reinvention, independence, and finding renewed purpose in this chapter of life. Barbara shares how staying active, creative, and connected has shaped her experience at Elim Park — and why she feels happier and more fulfilled than ever. It’s an inspiring conversation about community, belonging, and thriving at any age.

Lauren talked with Syndee Winters, the dynamic performer behind Lessons From a Lady: Syndee Winters Sings Lena Horne in Concert. In this inspiring conversation, Syndee shares how she brings Lena Horne’s remarkable story to life through music, storytelling, and heartfelt emotion.Together, they explore how Horne’s groundbreaking career as both an entertainer and activist continues to influence and empower generations of artists today. Syndee also gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at her creative process — blending timeless classics with contemporary flair and original music inspired by Horne’s legacy.Tune in to hear how Syndee Winters celebrates the life, music, and enduring impact of one of America’s most iconic voices.

Lauren sits down with Matt Ryan, the powerhouse performer behind Bruce In The USA, the world’s #1 Bruce Springsteen tribute show. From his beginnings in Las Vegas to performing for sold-out crowds across the globe, Matt shares how this high-energy experience keeps the spirit of The Boss alive for fans everywhere.

In this episode, Lauren and Pam sit down with the Sharpe Family Singers, a Broadway-born family whose journey from Les Misérables to viral stardom has captured hearts worldwide. Parents Ron and Barbra, along with their children Samantha, Logan, Connor, and Aidan, share how music has been woven into their family life, their rise to fame through TikTok and America’s Got Talent, and what audiences can expect from their upcoming performance at Nelson Hall.Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with a family whose harmony extends far beyond the stage.

In this episode, Lauren and Kelsey sit down with Public Health Nurse Emily Gomes, RN to tackle Lyme disease prevention and summer wellness tips. Learn how to spot and safely remove ticks, why they crawl instead of jump, and how long they need to be attached to transmit Lyme. Emily shares practical prevention strategies—from choosing the right clothing and repellents to protecting your pets year-round. Plus, we cover essential summer health reminders like staying hydrated, shielding your skin from the sun, and keeping mosquitoes at bay.

Welcome back! Today’s episode is all about stress awareness and management—a topic that resonates with people of all ages. Lauren and Kelsey are joined by special guest Deb Borzellino, a licensed marriage and family therapist and owner of Pieces That Fit in Cheshire.This episode was inspired by a recent wellness workshop hosted by Elim Park in collaboration with the Cheshire Chamber of Commerce Healthy Community Coalition. The event brought together residents, staff, and members of the broader community to explore how stress impacts our bodies and minds—and what we can do about it.Key Takeaways from Today’s Episode:1. Understanding Stress:Stress shows up in both physical and emotional ways—racing thoughts, rapid heartbeat, muscle tension, irritability, and more.Many people carry stress unknowingly. Recognizing it is the first step toward managing it.2. Simple Tools for Stress Relief:Breathing exercises are a powerful, accessible tool to calm the nervous system. Deb shares a guided breathwork practice at the end of the episode.Other stress relievers mentioned: music, dancing, singing, crying, and laughter.3. The Importance of Self-Care:Self-care is not selfish—it's essential. Yet it’s often the first thing we neglect.Massage, rest, hydration, and even a morning moment of stillness can make a difference. Listeners are encouraged to try stepping outside first thing in the morning for a reset.4. Emotional Health Matters:Mental health deserves as much attention as physical health. Don’t wait to ask for help if you feel overwhelmed.Therapy isn’t just for crisis—it’s a supportive space to process grief, stress, and life transitions.Grief isn’t only tied to death—it can come from diagnoses, job loss, or other major life changes.5. Healthy Habits to Support Well-Being:Reduce screen time—especially first thing in the morning.Prioritize sleep, nutrition, and exercise to keep your body and brain regulated.Be mindful of habits like emotional eating, excessive scrolling, or overconsumption of alcohol.6. Let Go of Perfection:Stress often increases when we strive to do things “perfectly.” Progress—not perfection—is the goal.It's okay to have an off day. What matters is showing up for yourself in small, consistent ways.About Our Guest: Deb Borzellino is a licensed marriage and family therapist and co-founder of Pieces That Fit in Cheshire, CT, alongside her husband, Dave. Their practice offers individual, couples, and family therapy. They are currently accepting new clients.Phone: 203-232-4462Website: www.piecesthatfit.comGuided Breathwork MeditationStay tuned at the end of the episode for a calming breathwork session led by Deb—a peaceful way to reset and center yourself, anytime you need it. Stress is a part of life, but it doesn’t have to control you. Take time for yourself, laugh often, breathe deeply, and remember—it’s okay to ask for help.Thanks for listening to today’s episode. Until next time, stay well and be kind to yourself!

Join Lauren and Pam for an exciting interview featuring Christian Recording Artist, GRAMMY® and Billboard Music Award nominee Ryan Stevenson! Learn more about Ryan's story and our special Fundraising event coming up on Friday, May 16th with showtimes at 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM. Known for his uplifting, hope-filled music, Stevenson has been inspiring listeners worldwide for over a decade. With hits like the Gold-certified “Eye of the Storm” and as co-writer of TobyMac’s #1 hit “Speak Life,” you won’t want to miss this night of music and inspiration. Learn more on this episode!

Join Lauren and Kelsey as we chat with local health department experts about staying healthy during the winter months. A special thankful to Hilary Norcia, MPH, Lorraine Brandolini, RN, and Nora Hartnett, BA, MPH for joining us today! In this episode, we cover:Effective Handwashing: Learn techniques to wash your hands properly and reduce germs.Limiting Germ Spread: Simple strategies to keep your home and community safe.Preventing Illness: Tips to guard against norovirus, flu, and COVID.Coping When Sick: Practical advice for managing symptoms and recovering comfortably.Tune in for wellness tips that will help you balance wellness with proactive prevention.To learn more about our local health department, click here: https://www.chesprocott.org/

In this special episode, we celebrate the diverse traditions and cultures that bring joy and connection to our community. With a spotlight on our Swedish roots, Lauren and Julia welcome special guest Lisa Olsen to share more about Santa Lucia Day and other Swedish Christmas customs. From festive feasts to the warmth of shared stories, this episode is a tribute to the traditions that unite us. No matter how you celebrate, we wish you all a very Merry Christmas and many blessings in the new year!

In this special episode, we shine a spotlight on breast cancer awareness, prevention, and resilience. Thank you to our two incredible guests: Meg Staubley, Development Director for CT at Susan G. Komen, who shares valuable insights into the latest research and advocacy efforts, and April Davis, APRN & CMHS Clinical Director, with a personal journey as a BRCA gene carrier and breast cancer survivor. Together, they discuss the importance of early detection, genetic testing, and empowering individuals to take charge of their health!

Join us for a special Easter message from Pastor Tim Olsen, Director of Christian Ministries at Elim Park. Wishing you a blessed Easter filled with the hope of new beginnings, the joy of cherished traditions, and the profound significance of the resurrection. May this season of renewal fill your heart with love and happiness.

This National Nutrition Month We're Celebrating Nourished - At Elim Park, it's no secret that we offer an incredible fine dining experience for our residents, but where does nutrition fall into that? Join Lauren as she dives into what this program is and how it will benefit seniors at Elim Park. Thank you to our special guests from HHS, Brittney Horn CDM, CFPP and Jeneta Culton RDN, LD for joining us for this episode, and for all they are doing to enhance the nutrition of our residents!   

In this episode, we dive into the tranquil world of "Peaceful Painting" at Elim Park. Join us as we explore the myriad of benefits of this creative endeavor and how it benefits seniors at our community. Join Lauren Bedard and Julia Bleau as they interview Kellyn and Bobby Trapp, and learn more about their Peaceful Painting class offered in our new Art Work's studio.

Elim Park is not just a senior living community, but a vibrant hub of activity, creativity, and lifelong learning. Among its residents, there's a shining example of how age is no barrier to pursuing one's passions and embracing new adventures. Meet Kathy Ross, whose love for theatre has found a new stage at Elim Park!For Kathy, theatre has always been more than mere entertainment – it's a lifelong passion that has woven its way through the fabric of her existence. However, it wasn't until she made the decision to call Elim Park home that this passion truly flourished. Elim Park provided the platform for her to reignite her love for theatre, which Kathy shares on today's episode. By joining the Elim Park Players, led by Nelson Hall's Production Coordinator, Tim Gadomski.Residents at Elim Park are encouraged to explore, discover, and embrace new experiences regardless of their age. Whether it's picking up a new hobby, delving into the arts, or simply connecting with fellow residents over shared interests, the possibilities are endless.For Kathy, the opportunity to participate in theatrical productions at Elim Park has been nothing short of exciting. From regular meetings to rehearsals to the thrill of performing live on Nelson Hall's stage, Kathy has found joy, fulfillment, and a renewed sense of purpose on the stage.But Elim Park isn't just about the spotlight – it's a community where every resident's talents, passions, and contributions are celebrated. Whether it's painting, gardening, music, or culinary arts, there's something for everyone to explore and enjoy. The sense of camaraderie and support at Elim Park is unparalleled. Kathy shares - in our community, we're not just residents – we're a family bound by our shared passions and experiences.As Kathy gracefully demonstrates, life at Elim Park is a testament to the fact that age is no barrier to living life to the fullest. It's a place where dreams are nurtured, talents are explored, and new chapters are written with each passing day. The world's a stage, no matter your age!So, whether you're a seasoned theatre enthusiast like Kathy or someone looking to discover new passions and possibilities, at Elim Park Senior Living, the world truly is your stage. Just ask resident Kathy Ross – she'll be the first to tell you that life's greatest adventures await, no matter your age.Thank you to today's special guests - Kathy Ross and Tim Gadomski.

Join Lauren and Pam for this special episode of the Everything Elim podcast where we had the opportunity to do an exclusive interview with Broadway stars Aaron De Jesus and Quinn VanAntwerp, along with Sharon Klein, the producer of the show. Read our post below to get the insider’s perspective on the creation of “Who Loves You” and some behind-the-scenes stories from the cast.About the ShowWhat can be better than having the music of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons live? When Jersey Boys hit the Broadway scene, ticket sales went through the roof! It was a simple story of four guys from New Jersey recording some of the finest music ever heard, marking its generation. The Who Loves You show consists of four young, Broadway veterans, who re-create the music and stories of the great era of The Four Seasons. With the choreography, staging, and melodious harmonies, audiences clap and sing along to these most memorable hits. Songs like: “Sherry”, “Big Girls Don’t Cry”, “Walk Like a Man”, “Candy Girl” and “Ronnie” – all smash hits, changed musical history forever. This group will take you back to the 50’s capturing all those great songs of that era.Meet the Cast of Today's EpisodeSharon Klein, a producer and booking agent, shares her enthusiasm for bringing the Jersey Boys to Nelson Hall. She talks about the inception of “Who Loves You” and the journey of creating a show featuring the cast members of the original Broadway production.Aaron De Jesus, a key member of the “Who Loves You” cast, shares his history with the show. From starting as Joe Pesci in the Las Vegas production to eventually playing Frankie Valli on Broadway, Aaron reflects on his 10-year journey with Jersey Boys. He expresses his love for the show and excitement about transitioning into directing.Quinn VanAntwerp, the longest-running Bob Gaudio in Jersey Boys history, shares his experience of being a part of the show for eight years and over 3000 performances. He highlights the real-life impact of Jersey Boys on audiences and the unique storytelling that sets it apart.The Power of MusicQuinn VanAntwerp and Aaron De Jesus both shared the impact of the Four Seasons’ music on people’s lives, creating a sense of nostalgia and emotional connection. From personal stories to the communal experience of live performances, the cast of Jersey Boys emphasizes the universal and powerful nature of music.Artistic Challenges and GrowthAaron and Quinn delve into the challenges of keeping their performances fresh after eight and ten years, respectively. They share insights into the dynamic nature of theater, the importance of listening and responding, and the joy of connecting with the audience. Quinn reflects on the growth he experienced playing Bob Gaudio and how it shaped his perspective on life.Theater vs. FilmBoth actors agree on the unique connection and immediate feedback that theater offers. They highlight the communal experience of live performances and the personal touch it adds to storytelling. While acknowledging the power of film and television, the cast emphasizes the irreplaceable magic of live theater.Career Advice for Aspiring ArtistsFor those starting their careers in the arts, Quinn and Aaron offer valuable advice. They stress the importance of saying yes to opportunities, collecting skills, and actively pursuing their passion. The key, they argue, is to be proactive, create content, and not wait for opportunities to come but to go and get them.What to Expect from “Who Loves You”As the interview wraps up, the cast members share their excitement about the upcoming shows at Nelson Hall. They give a glimpse of what the audience can expect from “Who Loves You,” promising a night filled with iconic music, stories, and the unique experience of witnessing the original Broadway cast live on stage.ConclusionIt’s evident from our recent interview that the Jersey Boys bring not only a remarkable musical performance but also a wealth of stories and experiences. “Who Loves You” promises to be a captivating journey through the music and memories of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. If you haven’t secured your tickets yet, act fast, as the shows are selling out quickly. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this extraordinary night at Nelson Hall.

No matter your age or which stage you are at in life, it is always fun to discover your interests and learn something new! Listen to Lauren, Kelsey and special guest Lynn as they discuss exploring new hobbies, and share their favorite holiday traditions and recipes.

Have you ever experienced the winter blues? On this episode, learn more about Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) from Meagen Yacobino, Clinical Director of Outpatient Services at Rushford, a Hartford HealthCare partner and Clinical Program Manager Alie Bates, LCSW.

Heather Chandor and Tabaski Niasse are the two wonderful members of our Fitness and Wellness Department at Elim Park. Join us as we discuss the various ways you can implement fitness and wellness into your everyday routine.

Join Lauren and Kelsey as they discuss tips and tricks to alleviate stress with Dr. Sharon Gutterman, who has her PhD in medical education, along with a master's degree in counseling. She is also the founder of Mindful Wow.

Dallyn Vail Bayles is a professional actor, singer, recording artist and teacher. His performing credits include leading roles in national and international Broadway tours, regional theater productions across the country, and feature films. Join Lauren and Pam to learn more about Dallyn's journey through the arts and his show coming to Nelson Hall Theatre on November 3rd.

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, join us for a special episode of the Everything Elim Podcast with special guests Meg Staubley, Susan G. Komen’s Development Manager for Connecticut and Heather Bugnacki. In this episode, Meg shares life-saving information including early detection resources, statistics, and so much more. Hear from Heather, a breast cancer survivor herself, about her journey to diagnosis, treatment, and how valuable faith and the support of family and friends can be.

The Always Olivia Tribute is a Chicago-based band consisting of some of the city’s best and busiest musicians and vocals coming to Nelson Hall on October 6th. This one-of-a-kind tribute features 5 costume changes and 4 decades of music honoring one of the most celebrated and beloved pop icons of all time – the late Olivia Newton-John. On this episode, join Lauren and Pam with special guest, Annie Aiello, star of the Always Olivia Tribute, to learn more about her journey and this incredible show. We also discuss ways to honor Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October.

You asked for Elvis back and we heard you! The “world’s best young Elvis” Travis Ledoyt brings together the artists of Sun Records: Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and more. Join today's episode with Lauren and Pam and hear more about Travis's exciting show coming up, and what is coming up next at Nelson Hall Theatre!

May is mental health awareness month. Tune in to learn some tips and tricks to promote mindfulness and mind & body wellness. Learn more about support services that Elim Park has to offer.

Welcome to our first episode of the Everything Elim Podcast! Meet Life Enrichment Coordinator Sharon Snow and resident Barbara Swenson. In this episode, we discuss the trips and activities offered at Elim Park, and more about what makes our non-profit senior living community in Cheshire, CT unique.