Aging Angst and Alleluias Podcast

Join Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly for a heartfelt episode of Aging, Angst & Alleluias as she shares why compassion genuinely transforms dementia care. From Tennessee's Joint Proclamation recognizing dementia awareness to practical ways we can treat our loved ones with dignity and respect, Mary Anne gently reminds us that staying calm always helps reduce fear, and that caregivers need compassion just...

In this important episode of Aging, Angst & Alleluias, host Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly tackles a growing concern for caregivers and older adults: patient rights during hospital admissions and transfers. What happens when an elderly loved one is transferred to a geriatric psychiatric facility without the knowledge or consent of a caregiver, family member, or Power of Attorney? What if a dementia di...

During a lively event filled with decorated walkers, Derby Day chaos, laughter, respite care, and lunch provided by Chick-fil-a, Veranda Ministries showed that joy and purpose can coexist despite the tough behind-the-scenes work, like running the Kentucky Derby uphill in orthopedic shoes. In this heartfelt and funny episode, we recount the Veranda Ministries Derby Day 2026 fundraiser — the fun, mi...

On this episode of Aging Angst & Alleluias with Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly , we're celebrating a landmark moment for Veranda Ministries —the official signing of new legislation by Bill Lee that expands their reach! This victory means more clients served and an additional day of respite care each week—real help, real hope, and real impact for families navigating dementia care. It's a joyful, hard-e...

In this powerful and joy-filled episode, we celebrate a significant milestone for respite care in Tennessee—new legislation that allows The Veranda to expand its reach, welcoming five additional clients into the day program and increasing care availability to 12 hours per week. This long-awaited breakthrough represents more than policy change—it's answered prayer, faithful perseverance, and a tang...

This episode of the Aging Angst and Alleluias Podcast features Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly and highlights the importance of respite care advocacy in Tennessee. She discusses the legislative landscape with compassion, shining a light on families and caregivers in need of support and dignity. The episode covers legislation such as SB1581 and HB1495 and recognizes leaders such as Sen. Ferrell Haile an...

In this second part of the conversation from episode 85, we want to pause for a moment and share something very real happening behind the scenes with Veranda Ministries. Right now, the Veranda is walking through the careful and sometimes complicated process of securing the proper legislation and permissions that would allow us to serve even more families whose loved ones have dementia. It's an imp...

We sadly said goodbye to our beloved Lovie this month, a gentle soul who loved Jesus and cherished the Veranda. Today, we come together to celebrate and honor the beautiful person Lovie was to each of us. Veranda Ministries is currently navigating the complex process of obtaining legislation and permissions to serve more families in need. It's important to note that the Veranda is not an adult day...

There's no single formula for caring for those living with dementia—only small, meaningful pieces of a puzzle that gradually teach us how to love effectively.  This week's episode, with host Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly, explores how memory, grief, and dignity are interconnected in unexpected ways. From the lost stories buried deep inside the mind to the unwavering determination of carepartners who...

A New Year's Eve celebration with those living with dementia and Alzheimer's feels sacred, filled with soft moments, memories, and unexpected joy. Paper hats sit crooked, cider overflows, noisemakers honking away, and questions may be repeated, but heart and presence matter most. On this very day at the Veranda, stories unfold—some vivid, some fragments—showing that memory lives in body and spirit...

This week, we're highlighting The Veranda's extraordinary ministry where dignity, purpose, and compassion come together beautifully. The Veranda is preparing to launch a new church service specifically for those living with dementia, creating a safe and sacred space where everyone can worship freely and feel deeply loved. Also shared on this episode is how The Veranda continues to support caregive...

In this deeply personal episode, Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly reveals a long-hidden family secret, an admission that, once uncovered, changed the course of events forever. Although the truth may be upsetting, Mary Anne stresses that it is also the foundation for healing. Her story explores how hidden truths affect future generations and how those with dementia may carry the weight of concealed pain...

This episode delves into the emotional challenges faced by care partners and highlights the crucial role of having an advocate in medical settings. Whether dealing with a planned surgical procedure or an unexpected medical emergency, family members may often feel helpless and vulnerable. Trusting medical professionals to care for your loved one is essential, yet this trust can sometimes be tested....

Respite care offers caregivers the opportunity to recharge and find joy, even in the midst of exhaustion. Caring for loved ones with Alzheimer's is sacred but draining, and humor often helps. This episode celebrates the gift of respite, which eases burdens and restores happiness. Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly shares stories with producer, Sue Duffield, from Mike Glenn's book, "Coffee With Mom - Carin...

Join us for an uplifting exploration of the life-changing impact of "Day Respite Care Centers" and the remarkable work of Veranda Ministries. You'll gain insight into the legal aspects of our program and get an exclusive update on the exciting changes on the horizon. We're eager to share our vision with you and invite your feedback on how just four hours can profoundly transform the lives of Tenne...

Host Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly and her sidekick, producer Sue Duffield, will share their recent experiences with back problems, aching bodies, and the struggles of aging humorously. It's guaranteed to make you laugh out loud.  However, beneath the humor, their conversation raises an important question: how do people with dementia cope with aches and pains? How can they communicate when they are h...

Laughter is good for our souls. It's especially good for those who have dementia, providing healing for those who grieve, no matter what our cognitive ability level might be. Today's "all over the place" episode starts off hilariously with "Gomer the bull" and a visit to Andy's Custard. Next is Mary Anne's description of falling on a slippery bathroom floor, added with the discussion of GeneSight,...

(Episode description by podcast producer, Sue Duffield) "Today's episode goes much deeper than just a story about host Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly's sister, Doris. Her heart-felt words will throttle the listener into a Netflix-like mini-series of hope, despair, miracles and over-the-top depth of secrets revealed. Mary Anne is at her finest here, but it took everything she had to disclose the family...

Host Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly shares from her heart, knowing that she'll experience loss and grief very soon in her life, coping with the very thing which she compassionately teaches that comforts others. Caregivers, doulas and professionals like Mary Anne are typically the first line of support as they assist other dementia patients and their family members to cope with serious illness, feeling...

Who says those with dementia and Alzheimer's can't have fun?! What an exciting day at the Veranda Ministries for all who attended. The "ponies" ran (walkers decorated with blow-up horse heads!) and the laughter was contagious. This episode includes LIVE coverage of an exceptional day of celebration for all of the Veranda family and friends. Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly's vision continues, knowing ho...

The brand new location for Veranda Ministries was celebrated with a dedication service, tasty food and community fellowship. This episode is filled with audio clips of the ribbon cutting and ceremony held on April 1st, 2025. Speakers Dusty Wells, Dr. Eddy Moody, Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly, Dave Clark, Billy Blackwood and others are featured in today's podcast episode, LIVE from the ceremony. A ver...

The Heart of Mary House (HOMH) began in a two bedroom home located in the South Nashville area on the campus of St. Edward Church. The mission of Heart of Mary House is to provide a safe, comfortable, and peaceful home-like setting for underserved people who have been given a terminal prognosis and need somewhere to stay and someone to care for them during their final days and weeks. They were abl...

Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly's guest, Anna Marie Adams, is an exceptional digital creator and Founder/CEO of the International Doula Life Movement. This episode is an honest conversation between both of these qualified and expert spokespersons for the need for doulas at every stage of seasoned life. This amazing partnership between the Veranda Ministries and IDLM continues to bring hope and answers...

The Veranda Ministries has a new building and a new projection of goals to reach the aging community of Gallatin, TN and the surrounding areas. What an exciting look into the facility, the dreams fulfilled and the people that make it all happen. Founder and Director, Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly candidly talks about this God-inspired transition in this episode. It is truly a gift of love!  For quest...

Celebrating the collaboration with the "I Love To Tell The Story" Podcast with Dave Clark and Dusty Wells and the "Aging Angst and Alleluias Podcast" episode is an amazing conversation between Dave, Dusty and Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly. So what's her story, and why are Dave and Dusty so excited to share it? As her followers and subscribers already know, Mary Anne is the founder of an exceptional n...