#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench

Latest Episodes:

Collected Moments: What the Green Bench Has Taught Us Jun 02, 2025

Show notes

In this special five-minute episode, we take a step back to reflect.

Gathered from conversations past, this mash-up features voices from our cherished guests—offering their most memorable stories, reflections, and wisdom shared from the Green Bench.

These are the words that stuck with us, made us think, and reminded us what matters most.

Whether you're new to Stories from the Green Bench or have been with us from the beginning, this short collection is a heartfelt reminder of the power of listening—and the beauty of a shared story.

Take five minutes. Find a quiet spot. And sit with us.

Share this episode with someone who needs a moment of reflection.
#ElderWisdom Green Bench celebrates 10 Years! Learn more at elderwisdom.ca

Reflections on the Voices That Continue to Inspire Feb 04, 2025

Show notes

Episode #75 - In this special episode, hosts Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle celebrate two years of podcasting together and reflect on the Green Bench initiative. They take a look back at some of the most memorable moments, impactful stories, and inspiring guests who have shared their wisdom over the past two years.

Special guest Ted Hudson, who was involved in the early days of the Green Bench, joins the conversation to discuss how this initiative has evolved—from a simple idea encouraging intergenerational conversations to a powerful movement fighting ageism and celebrating the voices of older adults.

Throughout this episode, Kathy and Evelyn revisit key insights and heartfelt stories from remarkable guests like:
✅ Royal Hamil, who embodies optimism and resilience
✅ Diane Dupuy, reflecting on the influence of her mother’s wisdom
✅ Ashton Applewhite, a leading voice in the fight against ageism

They also explore:
✔️ The power of storytelling in fostering understanding
✔️ The importance of community and intergenerational connections
✔️ How the Green Bench continues to amplify the voices of older adults

As the podcast takes a pause to expand the Green Bench initiative into new communities, this episode serves as a reminder of the impact that sharing wisdom can have across generations.

✨ Remember: Good friends never say goodbye; they simply say, "See you soon!"

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

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The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

The Power of Family, Fishing, and Life Lessons with Michael Tepsich Dec 03, 2024

Show notes

Episode #74 - Co-hosts Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle welcome Michael Tepsich, a resident of the Village of Erin Meadows, who shares his remarkable life story. Michael, who has been married to his wife Rose for 67 years, reflects on his upbringing in a northern Quebec mining town, where he navigated the challenges of learning multiple languages as the child of immigrants.

Michael discusses his career journey, transitioning from a cost accountant to a beloved school teacher, and emphasizes the importance of family in his life. He shares heartwarming anecdotes about his children and grandchildren, highlighting the joy they bring him.

A significant part of the conversation revolves around the influence of Dr. Jim, a mentor from Michael's childhood, who taught him valuable life lessons about language, sharing sorrow and happiness, and the importance of living a meaningful life. Michael's passion for fishing, which began with Dr. Jim, is also explored, showcasing how it became a cherished hobby and a source of peace throughout his life.

As the episode wraps up, Michael offers advice on maintaining balance in family life and finances, reflecting on the different challenges faced by today's families compared to his own experiences. His gratitude for life, despite health challenges, shines through, leaving listeners with a sense of hope and inspiration.

Join us for this touching episode filled with wisdom, love, and the enduring spirit of family. Don't forget to subscribe and share your own words of wisdom using the hashtag #ElderWisdom!

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

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The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Celebrating Family Traditions and Kindness with Donna Harrison Nov 19, 2024

Show notes

Episode #73 - Kathy Buckworth along with co-host, Evelyn Brindle dive into the life and wisdom of Donna Harrison, a resident of The Village of Sandalwood Park in Brampton.

Donna's story is a heartwarming journey through her early years in Port Credit, where she met her beloved husband, George, and started a family at a young age. She fondly recalls their life together, George's career with Pepsi Cola, and the strong family ties that have been a cornerstone of her happiness. Donna's narrative is filled with touching anecdotes, from meeting George on the lakeshore to their shared love for the casino game Blazing Sevens.

Throughout the episode, Donna's positivity and resilience shine through, even as she recounts the challenges of losing loved ones and adapting to life changes, such as moving to Sandalwood Park. Her stories of family gatherings, especially around the Sunday roast and Christmas, highlight the importance of family traditions and togetherness.

Donna also shares her experiences at Sandalwood Park, where she has found a supportive and loving community. She participates in various activities like word games and bingo, and has formed meaningful friendships, particularly with a fellow resident named Mary.

One of the key takeaways from the conversation with Donna is her unwavering belief in kindness. She attributes her positive outlook and the kindness she receives to the kindness she extends to others. Her simple yet profound advice to "just be kind" resonates deeply and serves as a guiding principle for living a fulfilling life.

We reflect on the wisdom Donna has imparted and the joy she finds in her family and community. We encourage our listeners to embrace kindness and cherish the moments with their loved ones.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Innovating Senior Living with Lora Bruyn Martin Nov 05, 2024

Show notes

Episode #72 - In this enlightening episode, hosts Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle sit down with Lora Bruyn Martin, the Director of Innovation, Improvement, and Research at Schlegel Villages.

Join us as we explore the fascinating world of innovation in senior living and how it enhances the lives of older adults and their caregivers. Lora shares her passion for working with seniors and discusses the importance of grassroots innovation programs like Innovation Catalyst, where frontline team members collaborate to improve care and services.

Discover the role of technology in senior living, including exciting trials like dining service robots and the impact of color contrast on mealtime experiences for residents with dementia. We also delve into the significance of involving family members in care and the wisdom that seniors bring to the innovation process.

Whether you're a caregiver, a family member, or simply interested in the future of senior care, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiring stories.

Learn more about the Innovation Catalyst Program: https://youtu.be/lYK8ppJvQWY

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Navigating Life with Parkinson's: Sharon Hunwicks' story Oct 22, 2024

Show notes

Episode #71 - Hosts Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle engage in a heartfelt and enlightening conversation with Sharon Hunwicks, a resident of Erin Mills Lodge Long-Term Care in Mississauga. Sharon shares her personal journey with Parkinson's disease, having been diagnosed at the early age of 43. She discusses the initial denial, the challenges of managing symptoms, and the importance of maintaining a positive attitude despite the daily struggles.

Sharon also delves into her extensive experience mentoring teenagers, particularly those facing communication barriers and cultural adjustments. She recounts how she became involved in youth mentorship through her local recreation center and the positive impact she has had on many young lives. Sharon emphasizes the importance of listening, providing guidance, and encouraging young people to explore various opportunities.

The conversation shifts to Sharon's professional background, including her time working at the Office of the Attorney General. She explains how her career in politics began and how it has influenced her advocacy work for Parkinson's awareness.

Throughout the episode, Sharon offers valuable advice for those newly diagnosed with Parkinson's or supporting someone with the disease. She highlights the significance of staying informed, maintaining a routine, and seeking support from community resources.

Her resilience and dedication to helping others shine through as she shares her story. Sharon's involvement in the Schlegel Villages community, including participating in events like the Schlegel Olympics, underscores her commitment to staying active and engaged.

Listeners are encouraged to visit Parkinson's Canada and the Michael J. Fox Research Foundation for more information and resources. Sharon's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, community support, and the wisdom that comes with experience.

Parkinson Canada: https://www.parkinson.ca/

The Michael J. Fox Foundation: https://www.michaeljfox.org/

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Wisdom across the globe with Sandy and Ellie Oct 08, 2024

Show notes

Episode #70 - In this exciting episode, Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle are joined by two spirited women in their eighties, who embarked on an incredible 80-day journey around the globe. Sharing laughter, stories, and priceless wisdom, Dr. Sandra Hazelip and Eleanor Hamby prove that age is just a number when it comes to exploring the world.

Listen in as they recount their adventures across seven continents, from piranha fishing in the Amazon to rooftop views of the pyramids in Cairo. Their infectious zest for life will inspire you to embrace curiosity, push your boundaries, and remember that every day is an opportunity for adventure—no matter your age.

Through tales of spontaneous decisions, incredible sights, and the kindness of strangers, Sandy and Ellie’s journey is one of connection, positivity, and embracing the unexpected. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or simply love stories of adventure, this episode is a testament to the power of friendship, resilience, and living life to the fullest.

Social Media Channels for Sandy and Ellie

What is your Dream Travel Location??

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

The Art of Teaching and Traveling with Christine Runstedtler Sep 24, 2024

Show notes

Episode #69 - In this enlightening episode, hosts Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle welcome Christine Runstedtler, a resident of The Village of Winston Park in Kitchener. Christine shares her incredible travel adventures, from exploring the arts in Java and Bali to her experiences in China and Thailand.

As a former teacher with over 35 years of experience, Christine reflects on the evolution of education, the importance of teaching the arts, and the value of integrating travel experiences into the classroom. She discusses the significance of extracurricular activities and how they can engage students in meaningful ways.

Tune in to hear Christine's insights on the importance of preserving the arts in our communities and the wisdom she has gained throughout her life. Whether you're a seasoned traveler, an educator, or simply someone who appreciates the stories of our elders, this episode is packed with inspiration and valuable lessons.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Soaring to New Heights: Lillian Parker's Skydiving Adventure Jun 11, 2024

Show notes

Episode #68 - Hosts Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle had the joy of chatting with the remarkable Lillian Parker, a resident at The Village of Riverside Glen in Guelph, who has an extraordinary story to share.

Lillian is a true thrill-seeker. She recently went skydiving and described the experience as "fantastic" and "better than a bird." Even though she broke her ankle upon landing, her enthusiasm for adventure hasn’t dimmed one bit. Lillian shared her lifelong love for flying, having also tried gliding and hot air ballooning. She’s already eyeing her next adventures: helicopter rides and ziplining.

Lillian’s story is about more than just the thrill of skydiving—it’s about inspiring others to step out of their comfort zones. She encourages everyone to seize new experiences, no matter their age. Her adventurous spirit shows that you’re never too old to set new goals or dream new dreams.

We were also joined by Bryce McBain, the General Manager at Riverside Glen, who was instrumental in organizing the skydiving experience. Bryce shared how the idea came from a younger resident’s bucket list and quickly gained traction, leading to 32 residents, team members, and family members taking the plunge over the summer of 2023.

Bryce emphasized that age should never be a barrier to living life to the fullest. He highlighted how such experiences help residents forget their limitations and embrace the joy of living. With the support from the community and the Schlegel Villages team, these adventures became a reality, proving that with the right support, anything is possible.

As we wrapped up the episode, we reflected on the importance of stepping outside our comfort zones and the value of elder wisdom in combating ageism. Lillian’s story is a powerful reminder that life is meant to be lived fully, no matter your age.

Learn more about our partners at Skydive Swoop: www.skydiveswoop.ca

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com

Curling, Chicken Coops, and Counting Blessings with Murray Woods May 28, 2024

Show notes

Episode #67 - Kathy Buckworth and Evelyn Brindle had the pleasure of speaking with Murray Woods, a man with a wealth of life experiences and wisdom (Recorded at The Village of Arbour Trails in Guelph). Murray, born in 1932 on a farm in Dufferin County, shared vivid memories from his childhood, including a daring ride on the back of a car at the age of five, which became a defining story of his early years.

Murray's career journey was equally fascinating. He spent 19 years as an egg grader, explaining the intricate process of grading eggs and the technological advancements in the field. He also had a significant tenure with Masterfeeds, where he witnessed and contributed to the evolution of the poultry industry, including his involvement with the early days of Swiss Chalet restaurants in Toronto.

A passionate sports enthusiast, Murray has been actively involved in both baseball and curling. He shared his experiences as a fastball pitcher and his long-standing love for curling, a sport he continues to play twice a week at the age of 91. Murray's insights into the spirit of curling, the changes in the sport over the years, and his personal achievements, including being part of a rare seven-ender game, were truly inspiring.

Murray also imparted some timeless wisdom, emphasizing the importance of counting blessings, courage, and health over crosses, fears, and wealth. His guidelines for a fulfilling life resonated deeply with us and are sure to inspire our listeners.

We wrapped up the episode with a light-hearted note, leaving the age-old question of what comes first, the chicken or the egg, up in the air for our audience to ponder.

*Schlegel Villages is proud to sponsor the Grand Slam of Curling 2024/25 Season and look forward to joining everyone at the WFG Masters, hosted in Guelph at the Sleeman Centre, January 14-19, 2025.

Subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on any network and share your thoughts on social media using the #ElderWisdom tag to help others find us.

----more----

The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.

It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.

"The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders." -Ron Schlegel

This podcast is brought to you by Schlegel Villages Retirement & Long-term Care homes in Ontario, Canada.

#ElderWisdom | Stories from the Green Bench is produced by Memory Tree Productions

Learn more about our host, Kathy Buckworth, at kathybuckworth.com

Learn more about #ElderWisdom at elderwisdom.ca

Learn more about Schlegel Villages at schlegelvillages.com