Life Under The Willow Tree Podcast By The Podcast Group at Willow Valley Communities cover art

Life Under The Willow Tree

Life Under The Willow Tree

By: The Podcast Group at Willow Valley Communities
Listen for free

Podcasts designed by Willow Valley residents, for Willow Valley residents, their friends & families. These podcasts are about Willow Valley residents and the people and events that surround them. Art Career Success Economics Entertainment & Performing Arts
Episodes
  • E208: Goddesses of Hearing

    E208: Goddesses of Hearing
    Mar 25 2026
    E208: Goddesses of Hearing Hosts: Ray Loewe and Mary Ann Steinhauer Guests: Heather Eck and Carrie Hermann Description: This podcast episode from Willow Valley features a conversation with two doctors of audiology, Heather Eck and Carrie Hermann, who discuss the complexities of hearing loss and modern solutions. The experts explain that hearing is a collaborative process between the ears and the brain, noting that "selective hearing" often occurs when the brain prioritizes specific stimuli over others. They highlight how artificial and augmented intelligence in modern hearing aids helps filter background noise, making it easier for users to engage in meaningful conversations and maintain relationships. The guests emphasize that adapting to these devices is a rehabilitative process that requires time for the brain to relearn how to process environmental sounds. Ultimately, the discussion encourages regular audiology screenings as a vital component of overall health and personal connection.
    Show more Show less
    29 mins
  • E207 Willow Valley's Wonderful Shuttle Services

    E207 Willow Valley's Wonderful Shuttle Services
    Mar 19 2026
    Host: Carol MacAllister Guests: Sandra Derr, Kim Pfeffer, James Merkel Description: WV’s Transportation Department is a gift to all those residents who no longer drive for whatever reason, temporarily or permanently, or when winter storms make it impossible to shovel their cars free, even if the roads are plowed and salted. The well-trained drivers are intrepid in such situations, but even on the nicest days, they are there to take residents where they need to go on both campuses and off campus. On-campus transport is free, but when a resident has a medical appointment, the charge is prorated based on mileage and requires a reservation. In addition, the department provides residents with transportation to various cultural events on both campuses and in town, such as the symphony or the Fulton Theater. And don’t forget those shopping trips for groceries and other necessities. On an average good-weather day, they may respond to 175-250 requests, and on snow days, it can go up to 400. Delays can happen, especially when a driver is out sick or a vehicle needs service. But this podcast leaves no doubt that the staff is dedicated to providing WV residents with transportation services when they need them the most.
    Show more Show less
    25 mins
  • E206: Kindness at Willow Valley

    E206: Kindness at Willow Valley
    Mar 12 2026
    Hosts: Dale Johnson and Candace O'Donnell Description: In this podcast episode titled "Kindness at Willow Valley," hosts Dale Johnson and Candace O'Donnell explore the pervasive culture of kindness at the Willow Valley retirement community. The discussion is structured around a series of personal anecdotes and observations involving both residents and staff, ranging from organized support networks to anonymous, random acts of generosity. Key themes include the importance of welcoming new neighbors, providing practical assistance during health crises, and the deep sense of communal solidarity found in small-town environments like Lancaster. Ultimately, the program serves to celebrate these selfless behaviors and inspire listeners to adopt similar practices to further enrich their local community.
    Show more Show less
    20 mins
No reviews yet