In Good Company Podcast: Age Better

Alzheimer’s disease affects millions of families—but many people don’t realize how much progress depends on advocacy, education, and public policy.
In this episode of In Good Company, we’re joined by Marcia Rauwerdink, a longtime volunteer advocate and board member with the Alzheimer’s Association, to discuss:
The real impact of Alzheimer’s on families and caregivers
Why advocacy and legislation matter in the fight against the disease
Breakthroughs, challenges, and what still needs to change
How everyday people can get involved and make a difference
Marcia’s journey began after losing her mother to Alzheimer’s, and for over 17 years she has worked at the local, state, and federal levels to raise awareness, push for research funding, and fight for better care and treatment options.
🧠 About the Alzheimer’s Association
The Alzheimer’s Association® is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support, and research. They are dedicated to accelerating global research, driving risk reduction, and advancing early detection and quality care.
🔗 Website: https://www.alz.org
📞 24/7 Helpline: 1-800-272-3900Free, confidential support for people living with Alzheimer’s, caregivers, families, and professionals.
💜 Services include:
Caregiver support and education
Local community programs
Research funding and advocacy
Guidance for navigating diagnosis and care
If you or someone you love is affected by Alzheimer’s or dementia, help is available, you are not alone.

In this powerful and deeply moving episode, we sit down with Camelia Jacob, founder and CEO of Jacob’s Ladder, Jacob’s Houses, and Jacob’s Care Center—alongside Luchiia Lebed, manager and integral part of the mission. Together, they share the incredible story behind a network of intimate, faith-led end-of-life homes where compassion isn’t just a value… it’s the culture. What began as a leap of faith—sparked by prayer, purpose, and a $5,000 sign—grew into one of Missouri’s most unique care models: small, home-like environments where dignity is protected, families are supported, and no one has to die alone. Camelia and Luchiia reveal: How a calling became a community resource for those facing the hardest moments of life Why traditional facilities struggle to deliver truly personal care What families need (but aren’t told) when navigating end-of-life decisions Common hospice misconceptions and what comfort care actually looks like How Jacob’s Ladder gives peace—not just to patients, but to entire families The extraordinary stories of healing, reconciliation, and faith they witness daily This episode will open your heart, challenge your assumptions, and leave you hopeful about what end-of-life care can be. Contact Jacob’s Ladder If you or someone you love needs guidance, support, or care—reach out. Jacob’s Ladder is here to help. 📞 Phone: 417-425-4409 🌐 Website: https://jacobsladdercare.org 📧 Email: Jacobsladdercare@gmail.com 🏠 Jacob’s Houses Email: Jacobshousesllc@gmail.com 📱 Follow on Social Media: Instagram & Facebook — Jacob’s Ladder and Jacob’s Houses #JacobsLadder #JacobsHouses #EndOfLifeCare #HospiceCare #NoOneDiesAlone #CompassionateCare #FaithBasedCare #CaregiverSupport #DignityInDeath #ComfortCare #HospiceAwareness #HealingJourneys #FaithInAction #HopeAndHealing #SpringfieldMO #OzarksCommunity #FamilyCaregivers #CommunitySupport #InspiringStories #PodcastEpisode #HumanStories #ReconciliationStories #PurposeDrivenLife

In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with the Development Director of the Ozarks Area Community Action Corporation (OACAC) to uncover the powerful work happening behind the scenes of one of the region’s most impactful nonprofits. For nearly 60 years, OACAC has been quietly transforming lives—helping individuals and families break cycles of poverty, access essential resources, and move toward long-term self-sufficiency. OACAC is part of a nationwide network of Community Action Agencies founded to combat poverty at the local level. Today, the organization serves ten Southwest Missouri counties through a wide range of programs designed to meet people where they are. From education and employment opportunities to housing assistance, crisis support, early childhood programs, energy assistance, community partnerships, and more, OACAC works every day to create real, lasting change. In this conversation, you’ll learn: ✨ What Community Action Agencies are—and why they matter ✨ The story behind OACAC’s mission and decades of service ✨ How local families are supported through wraparound programs ✨ Why collaboration, compassion, and community leadership are essential in addressing poverty ✨ How YOU can get involved, support the mission, or connect someone in need Whether you’re familiar with OACAC or discovering this organization for the first time, this episode will leave you with a deeper understanding of poverty in the Ozarks—and the hopeful, hands-on work being done to fight it. 🔗 Learn more about OACAC: https://oac.ac (Replace with your actual link if different) If you enjoy conversations that highlight meaningful local impact and the people creating real change, hit LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

In this heartfelt episode of In Good Company, we sit down with Casey Cordell, Admissions Director at James River Nursing and Rehabilitation in Springfield, Missouri, to explore what compassionate, personalized care really looks like during one of life’s most challenging transitions. With five years of experience in healthcare admissions, Casey has helped countless families navigate the journey from hospital to rehab with confidence and calm. She shares her own story, what makes James River Rehab unique, and how her team ensures every admission feels personal, welcoming, and full of heart. 💜 🏥 What You’ll Learn What to expect during the rehab and skilled nursing admissions process How James River Rehab supports patients and families — every step of the way Common myths and misconceptions about rehab care Real stories of healing, hope, and community 💬 Connect with James River Nursing & Rehabilitation 📍 Address: 3550 East Battlefield Street, Springfield, MO 65809 📞 Phone: (417) 882-0320 🌐 Website: www.jamesriverrehab.com 📧 Email: info@jamesriverrehab.com 🎧 Listen, Learn, and Share If you or a loved one are preparing for rehab or long-term care, this conversation is for you. 👉 Watch now, and discover how compassion and connection make all the difference. 💡 Subscribe to In Good Company for more inspiring stories from caregivers, healthcare professionals, and the communities that support them. #InGoodCompany #JamesRiverRehab #SkilledNursing #RehabilitationCare #HealthcareHeroes #PatientStories #CompassionateCare #CaseyCordell

Most families have no idea that they can qualify for Medicaid… and still lose their home care services because of one misunderstood question. In today’s eye-opening episode, longtime caregiver and Director of Home Care Amanda Presley at Haven Home Health and Hospice, reveals the hidden pitfalls in Medicaid reassessments, the mistakes people make out of pride, and why answering based on your “best day” can cost you the help you need on your hardest days. We break down the difference between home care and home health, the myths surrounding Medicare coverage, and the support most people don’t realize is available. Amanda also shares real stories from her 30 years in the field—from helping families keep loved ones at home longer, to caring for clients with extremely high needs who were told a facility was their only option. If you’re caring for an aging parent, navigating Medicaid, or trying to keep a loved one at home safely, this episode could save you thousands of dollars, months of stress, and the risk of losing essential services simply because of how you answer a question. How to qualify. What to avoid. What families don’t know. And how one wrong answer changes everything. This is an episode every caregiver needs to hear.

*In this Quickcast, we break down what you really need to know about Parkinson’s disease — from early symptoms to breakthrough treatments — and highlight the incredible work being done right here in our community by the Parkinson’s Group of the Ozarks (PGO).
Parkinson’s is far more than tremors. It affects movement, sleep, mood, speech, and day-to-day independence. But with the right support, individuals can live fuller, more empowered lives — and that’s exactly why PGO exists.
For more than twenty years, the Parkinson’s Group of the Ozarks has provided free classes, support groups, education, resource referrals, and financial assistance for families across our region. Their mission is simple: No one in the Ozarks should face Parkinson’s alone.
In this episode, we cover:• What Parkinson’s disease actually is• The three main factors that contribute to developing Parkinson’s• Why exercise is one of the most effective tools for managing symptoms• Breakthrough technologies — including Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)• How wearable devices and digital tools are transforming care• How to get plugged into PGO’s free local support network
If you or someone you love has been impacted by Parkinson’s, this episode is a must-listen.
📞 Parkinson’s Group of the Ozarks — Contact & Resources
🌐 Website: https://www.parkinsonsgroup.org📱 Phone: 417-889-1999📍 Programs & Support: Exercise classes, Rock Steady Boxing, support groups, education, and community resources for individuals and caregivers in the Ozarks.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Cory Davis, a courageous man living with Parkinson’s who opens up about his personal journey — the fear, the faith, the setbacks, and the moments that pushed him to keep going. His message to anyone facing the disease is simple but profound: never give up. We also highlight the incredible work of the Parkinson’s Group of the Ozarks, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families living with Parkinson’s through education, exercise programs, support groups, caregiver resources, and unwavering community connection. Cory’s wife, Dawn Davis, plays a vital role in this mission as she leads one of the organization’s impactful programs, bringing strength, empathy, and guidance to families navigating their own Parkinson’s journey. We’re also joined by Cassi Locke, the Executive Assistant of the Parkinson’s Group of the Ozarks, who shares insight into the organization’s expanding vision and the meaningful ways they’re transforming lives across the region. Whether you’re directly affected by Parkinson’s, love someone who is, or simply need a dose of inspiration, this episode delivers a moving reminder of resilience — and the power of community that ensures no one fights Parkinson’s alone. 👉 Listen now to hear Cory’s story of strength, Dawn’s compassionate leadership, and Cassi’s dedication to a mission that truly matters. https://www.parkinsonsgroup.org/ info@parkinsonsgroup.org 417-814-6067

What’s the hidden side of senior living that families don’t see? In this episode of In Good Company, Sales Director Emily Christopher pulls back the curtain on what really happens inside senior living communities—and why the journey into eldercare is far more emotional, meaningful, and human than most people realize. Emily’s path is anything but typical. After 14 years as a NICU nurse, she discovered a new calling in post-acute care and eventually found her passion in senior living. Today, she sits with seniors and their families every day, guiding them through one of life’s most emotional decisions with empathy, humor, and heart. 🌟 In This Episode, Emily Shares: • The surprising moments that drew her from NICU nursing to senior living • What families don’t know about choosing a senior community • Why listening to seniors’ stories can change everything • The emotional side of the transition that many overlook • Behind-the-scenes insights from The Waterford at Ironbridge (Sonida Senior Living) • How empathy and education shape her approach to senior care Emily reminds us that everyone has a story—and when you take the time to listen, seniors will share the most beautiful, unexpected truths.

In this episode of In Good Company, John and I dive into the heart of the holidays — the traditions, the memories, and the moments that remind us how important family truly is. But we’re also tackling a conversation that so many families avoid… until it becomes urgent. 🦃 Thanksgiving is often the first time all year we see our aging parents or grandparents up close. That makes it the perfect — and sometimes unavoidable — moment to ask the hard questions: Are they safe at home? Are they starting to struggle more than they let on? Is it time to consider home care support? Whether it’s changes in mobility, memory lapses, or subtle signs they’re overwhelmed, the holidays can reveal a lot. And pretending not to notice doesn’t help the people we love most. In this episode, we talk about: Our favorite Thanksgiving family traditions The red flags you might see at holiday gatherings How to approach “the talk” with grandparents compassionately Why early conversations about home care protect dignity — not take it away Practical tips for navigating family emotions, resistance, and fear 💛 If you’ve been putting off this conversation, this episode will give you the confidence, framing, and language to finally have it — with love. 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this with someone who’ll be sitting across from aging parents this holiday season.

In this eye-opening conversation, we sit down with Ryan Horn — veteran, funeral director, and co-founder of Eden Cremation Services — to explore a cultural transformation: why more Americans are choosing cremation over traditional funerals, and what that shift really means for families, values, and the end-of-life industry. What you’ll discover in this episode: Ryan’s personal journey: from military service to founding a veteran & family-owned funeral home grounded in compassion and integrity. Eden Cremation Services Why the rise of direct cremation isn’t just about cost—but about simplicity, dignity, and redefining how we honor our loved ones. How the industry is evolving, and what families should know to make informed decisions during one of life’s most difficult moments. The emotional, practical, and societal factors driving America’s big shift from traditional funerals to cremation. Ryan’s insights on how funeral homes can serve families better in this changing landscape. edencremation.com Why this matters: Funeral traditions are deeply personal, yet many find themselves navigating confusing options at the worst possible time. With expert-guidance from Ryan, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and a fresh lens on how to honor life and legacy with intention. 🔔 Subscribe & Stay Connected: If you’re drawn to these deeper conversations around life, loss, and legacy, make sure to subscribe so you never miss future episodes. We’d also love to hear from you—share your thoughts or questions in the comments below.