Lights, Camera, Community: Reimagining Aging at Villa Gardens

What happens when a senior living community becomes the set of a feature film? In this powerful episode, Sean Kelly (CEO of Front Porch) and Shaun Rushforth (Executive Director at Villa Gardens) share the behind-the-scenes journey of Familiar Touch — a groundbreaking film made with residents, not just about them.

They dive into the early skepticism, the logistical hurdles, and the transformative impact the production had on staff, residents, and the broader public’s view of aging. From busting harmful stereotypes to showcasing intergenerational collaboration, this conversation reveals how storytelling can reshape the way we see senior living, care work, and purpose in later life.

Whether you're a senior living leader, a Gen Z job-seeker, or someone who cares about how we age — this episode will change how you think about what’s possible in community life.