Back In My Day

What does it truly take to create a meaningful and joyful life in aged care?

🌟Step inside the world of aged care through the eyes of Lucy, the passionate CEO of Columbia Aged Care Services, as she shares her inspiring journey and the transformative power of connection, leadership, and compassion.

Whether you're exploring aged care options for a loved one or curious about the sector's inner workings, this enlightening conversation has wisdom and guidance you'll cherish.

Here’s what this episode covers:

- Lucy's unique path to becoming CEO and how her experiences shaped her leadership style.

- The ever-evolving world of aged care and what needs to change to create better outcomes.

- How Columbia Aged Care embraces feedback from residents, families, and staff to foster a thriving community.

- Strategies to improve the quality of life for residents, from personalised programs to cultural initiatives.

- Why understanding the local community is essential for successful aged care services.

- Advice for families navigating the complexities of aged care, including the benefits of respite care.

👩‍⚕️ Lucy’s heartfelt stories and invaluable advice will leave you inspired to think differently about aged care – not as a clinical necessity, but as a vibrant, meaningful way of living. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode!

🎙 Men’s Mental Health: The Journey of a Psychiatric Nurse

In this final episode of our podcast series on men’s mental health, we sit down with Alex Curry to discuss what mental health means to him and reflect on his 35+ years of experience as a psychiatric nurse.

Through personal stories and wisdom gained over decades, Alex shares valuable perspectives on the challenges and changes in mental health care.

A big thank you to Uniting Annsley and Lock Haven facilities for partnering with us on this important conversation about men’s mental health and creating a safe space for these discussions.

🔹 In this episode, we talk about:

- Alex’s journey from working in railways to becoming a psychiatric nurse

- Reflections on mental health care changes throughout the years

- The impact of stigma and techniques for supporting mental health recovery

- Personal insights on enjoying life, learning from regrets, and moving forward

- The importance of empathy and support in mental health

⚠ Support resources: If anything in this episode resonates with you or if you need help, please reach out to these support networks:

Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14

Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636

💬 Share your thoughts and let us know what stood out to you in Alex’s story. How do you approach mental health in your own life?

👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more inspiring conversations.

Thank you for being part of this journey!

🎙Breaking the Stigma: Don Brander’s Powerful Journey in Men’s Mental HealthIn this episode, we dive into the raw and heartfelt journey of Don Brander as he shares his personal experiences with mental health. From struggling with stigma to overcoming challenges like addiction, isolation, and depression, Don opens up about what has helped him find strength and purpose.What to Expect in This Episode:- Don shares his mental health journey, starting from his youth and dealing with stigma.- Insights into how addiction to gambling, smoking, and drinking impacted his life.- The role of support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous and Gamblers Anonymous in his recovery.- How counselling, church connections, and building a healthy support system have made a difference.- Tips and encouragement for men facing mental health challenges to seek help and avoid isolation.Special thanks to Uniting for partnering with us on this vital discussion around men's mental health. If this video raises any concerns for you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Lifeline Australia (13 11 14) or Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) for support.🎧 Don’t miss this powerful and inspiring conversation - your mental health matters!

The Life Story of Ross Bunch: Men and Mental Health

✨ In honour of Men's Mental Health Awareness Month this October, we sit down with Uniting resident Ross Bunch to share his raw and courageous journey with mental health.

From childhood experiences, life-altering struggles, to finding hope and purpose, Ross opens up about the realities of mental health, particularly among men, and the power of seeking help, faith, and connection.

If you or someone close to you finds this episode distressing or needs support, please reach out to Lifeline Australia (13 11 14) or Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636). You're not alone. 💙🔑

What to expect from this powerful episode:

- Insight into why men often grapple with opening up about mental health.

- Ross’s inspiring journey from dark thoughts to finding strength through professional help.

- A heartfelt exploration of mental health stigma and how it shaped Ross’s life.

- The pivotal role of faith in Ross’s path to healing.

- Simple yet impactful advice for men navigating mental health challenges.

This deeply moving conversation is a reminder that there’s always hope, and that speaking up can pave the way to healing.

Watch, listen, and share to help us shine a light on the importance of mental health awareness for men everywhere. 🙌❤️

Don't forget to subscribe for more meaningful episodes championing mental health all this month!

Shining a Light on Men's Mental Health | Mental Health Month Special Episode

This October, in partnership with Uniting Annesley and Locke Haven, we’re highlighting the importance of men’s mental health as part of Mental Health Month.

In this episode, we sit down with Martin Kellard for an enlightening and honest conversation about mental health challenges, stigmas, and the power of opening up.

What’s included in this episode:

- Honest discussions about mental health and why it’s harder for men to ask for help

- Martin’s personal insights on mental health, stigma, and navigating challenges

- The role of mateship and support networks in men’s mental well-being

- The importance of being honest with yourself and others about how you feel

- Potential solutions and progress in addressing mental health issues

- Tips for men who might be struggling with their mental health

If this episode brings up anything difficult for you or you’re in need of support, please reach out to Lifeline Australia or Beyond Blue.

Let’s continue the conversation about mental health and break the stigma together. Please like, share, and comment to spread awareness! 💚

🎙️ Step into the extraordinary journey of Patch Geerin in this captivating episode of the Back in My Day Podcast! Whether you’re an aspiring recruiter, a lover of life stories, or simply curious about how resilience and ambition shape success, this conversation is for you.

Patch Geerin shares his incredible experiences — from starting as a ballroom dancer to becoming one of the best recruiters in the industry, and navigating life’s unpredictable challenges with grit and determination.

🔔 What you’ll discover in this episode:

• 💼 Recruitment Insights: How Patch transformed his career and became a divisional manager in recruitment.
• 🌟 Eventful Life Stories: Patch’s moments of triumph, near-death experiences, and how he overcame adversity.
• 💃 From Ballroom to Boardroom: The surprising journey of a professional ballroom dancer turned recruiter.
• 🛠️ Adapting to Industry Changes: The evolution of sales, recruitment, and management over the decades.
• 🕊️ Reflections on Retirement & Resilience: Life lessons from Patch’s journey through health challenges and personal growth.

Patch’s riveting stories will inspire you to look at challenges as stepping stones and to always keep learning, no matter the odds.

🌟 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more stories like this!

👉 Watch now and let us know your favourite moment from this episode!

Dive into the fascinating life of Bill Og in this heartwarming episode of the Back In My Day podcast!🌟

Highlights from Bill's Incredible Journey:

🌆 Growing up in Glebe and cherishing fond memories of his childhood.

🏌️‍♂️ Pursuing his passion for golf, cycling, and bowls, even becoming president of his local bowls club!

🚴 Racing at Sydney velodromes and dedication to bike riding during his younger years.

🛠️ Creating a business that has now been passed through three generations.

🎺 Performing in brass bands during wartime in Sydney.

🏠 Reflecting on life transitions and his experiences in aged care with heartfelt insights.✨

With tales of personal triumphs, wisdom, and advice for future generations, Bill's captivating story is full of inspiration and nostalgia.

🎙️ Tune in now to hear his story.

🎥 How Peninsula Villages Brings Purpose and Joy to Residents Every DayWelcome back to another episode of the Back in My Day podcast! 👋 This week, we sat down with Greg Patterson, the Lifestyle, Community, and Events Manager at Peninsula Villages, to uncover how their team goes above and beyond to create meaningful experiences for their residents.💬 Greg shared his passion for crafting tailored activities and events that cater to the unique histories, preferences, and needs of every resident—from memory care programs to cultural celebrations and even custom bus trips! 🌟Some highlights include:🚌 Bus trips to events like Vivid Sydney and the Egawa Gardens🎨 Residents featured in international art competitions🎉 Exciting on-site events like happy hours, themed days, and the Peninsula Gala NightPeninsula Villages doesn’t just focus on activities—they focus on PEOPLE. With a strong team and extensive community engagement, they ensure residents find joy, purpose, and connection every single day. Watch now to hear all about Greg’s approach to making every moment count and learn how families can play a vital role in creating personalised care programs for their loved ones.🌍 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to LIKE, SHARE and SUBSCRIBE!

Navigating Aged Care: Tips, Misconceptions, and Insights from Peninsula Villages’ Care Assessment Manager, Siobhan Roe,

🎙️ Welcome to the “Back in My Day” podcast! This week’s episode dives into the aged care process with special guest Siobhan Roe, Care Assessment Manager at Peninsula Villages. If you're supporting a loved one through this transition or just curious about aged care systems, you won't want to miss this episode filled with actionable insights!

🔑 Highlights from the episode:

• Breaking Misconceptions: Is aged care really a prison? Siobhan debunks common stigmas and explains the freedoms and benefits for residents.
• Finding the Right Fit: How to tour facilities, trust your gut, and ensure your loved one’s needs are prioritised.
• The Care Assessment Process: From assessments to interviews, learn how personalised care plans are crafted.
• Keys to Transparency: Open communication, frequent reviews, and safeguarding residents’ individuality -everything families need to know to feel confident.
• Managing Changes: How care plans adapt over time to ensure the best possible support for residents.

📌 Siobhan also offers invaluable advice on navigating choices and ensuring that your loved one feels at home, happy, and cared for.

💬 Whether you’re looking for practical tips or reassurance as you step into the aged care world, this episode is packed with everything you need to know.

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and share!

📺 Watch now to gain peace of mind and the tools you need to make informed decisions. Your loved one deserves the best care, and you deserve the knowledge to make it happen.

Discover the heart of aged care in this powerful and insightful podcast episode featuring Rachel Bowes, Head of Residential Care at Southern Crosscare in New South Wales and ACT!

Join us as Rachel shares her journey into aged care, and bridges the connection between mental health nursing and aged care.

From navigating government systems like My Aged Care 📱, to breaking down financial myths 💰, and challenging the stigma around aged care, this episode is packed with valuable information for families embarking on this emotional journey.

Learn the importance of trusting your instincts when choosing an aged care facility, visiting multiple homes, and focusing on the community and care rather than appearances 🏡.

Dive into the innovative lifestyle programs at Southern Crosscare, including cooking demos 🍳 and community choirs 🎶, that keep residents engaged and connected to their passions!

Rachel opens up about the emotional complexities families face when transitioning to aged care and shares practical tips for shared decision-making, emotional support, and using trusted resources to ease the journey ❤️.

If you’re navigating aged care for a loved one or simply want to understand the field better, this episode is a must-listen. Explore how values-driven care, community connections, and passionate staff are transforming the aged care experience.

📌 Highlights at a Glance:

👉 Navigating My Aged Care for funding and assessment

👉 Why atmosphere and warmth matter more than shiny buildings

👉 Busting financial myths about affordability in aged car

👉 Tailored programs for residents’ hobbies and skills

👉 Communication and emotional support for smoother transitions

Press play now and let Rachel Bose inspire and empower you to make confident, informed decisions about aged care! 🌟

Don’t forget to like, comment, and share your thoughts below!🎥

Ready to learn more about Southern Crosscare? Visit their website for detailed resources and support! https://www.sccliving.org.au/

Making aged care decisions for a loved one can be tough. In this video, Diana Horvatovic (CEO) and Helen Pidgeon (Admissions Manager) from St. Basil's share expert advice, from starting the journey to choosing a facility and addressing common doubts.

💡 What You’ll Learn:

• Where to begin – GP, My Aged Care, or trusted providers like St. Basil's.
• Key things to observe in a facility – resident interactions, dining, and activities.
• Handling guilt, setting expectations, and prioritising your loved one’s needs.
• St. Basil's focus on empathy, personalised care, and cultural understanding.
• Gain practical tips and insights to navigate aged care with confidence.

👉 Hit like, comment, and subscribe for more expert advice!

What if you want to remain in your own home, but you're unsure, or your children have difference in opinions?

We sit down with Richard de Haast, CEO of Scalabrini, who discusses:

- How to give your loved ones agency in choice

- Not to be seduced by fancy looking aged care homes

- Important questions you NEED to ask when touring facilities - Why may Scalabrini be the right choice for your loved one?

In this episode, Reg shares his life story, from meeting his wife at a dance in Dulwich Hill to working as a plumber and in construction before transitioning to architectural drawings. During the war, he helped convert Prince Alfred Hospital for American troops and reflects on life in Sydney under the threat of Japanese attacks. After the war, he built his own house in his spare time. He achieved his dream of working in the Botanical Gardens in his later life. Recently, Reg celebrated his 100th birthday, proudly sharing his signed letter from King Charles.

Born in 1926 in Albury on the Murray River, Joy recalls life during the Great Depression and World War II, when her husband served in New Guinea. A polio outbreak limited travel, and later her family moved to the U.S. for her husband’s work. After his passing, Joy embraced travel, new experiences, and her passion for crosswords.

Mohini, born in Sri Lanka to a family of lawyers, was inspired by her father to pursue law. After living in the UK, she settled in Australia, founding her first legal practice in Sydney and supporting the local Buddhist community. A trailblazing female lawyer, she reflects on breaking barriers, her spiritual journey, and her love for cricket.

Maureen's remarkable life has been shaped by a global upbringing as the daughter of a military doctor, with childhood memories in the Falklands, Uganda, Kenya, and the UK. Inspired by her family’s legacy, she became an army nurse, travelling the world and raising her children with her military husband. Eventually settling in Australia, Maureen’s story is one of resilience, adventure, and love.

In this episode, Christine Tubbs shares her journey from Yorkshire to Australia, her career in Learning and Development, and how personal experiences with mental health and supporting her mum through dementia shaped her passion for helping others. She also reflects on living in a specialist aged care home, offering insights on resilience, compassion, and purpose. Trigger Warning: Topics include mental health, suicide, and anxiety. For support, contact Lifeline at 13 11 14.

At 103 years young, Mabel has witnessed Sydney change an incredible amount. From watching Sydney Harbour Bridge being built and walking across it the very same day, to starting a family. We try and find out what’s the secret to living a full life spanning over a century.

From being bitten by a redback spider to escaping a near run in with a Kangaroo, Bob shares what his childhood in Parramatta was like, and life on the road as a Truck Driver across Australia.

Al’s career has been nothing short of amazing. A life of showbusiness and being one of the leading comics of his generation, Al has performed across the world and alongside some big names. Al’s open and honest recount of his life and how he journeyed to Australia left us wanting to hear more!

Beatrice details her earliest memories of relocating from Bondi during the war to escape the perceived coastal dangers, to her school days and then starting a family and embracing her role as a dedicated mother. She provides an insight into life in aged care, and the experiences on offer for residents to take part in. 

Carl recounts his journey from meeting his cherished wife at the age of 15 to achieving success in his career. He opens up about the challenges he faced after the loss of his beloved wife, Susie. Carl's narrative is rich with anecdotes of global travels, transitioning to aged care, and adapting to a new chapter in life.

Originally from Cornwall, England, Sarah has travelled and experienced life all over the world. In this episode, Sarah shares her fond memories of living in East Africa, her close relationship with her beloved father, and her family link to Queen Elizabeth II.

From being adopted at birth in the UK, to moving to an Australian orphanage aged 6, Richard’s life has been remarkable. Richard shares his life story, including running away at 11 to the Bush and being raised by an Aboriginal family, and being reunited with his identical twin, his career and moving to aged care aged 70.