Joe Carlson Enjoys His Role Off-Stage as Oak Crest's New TV Coordinator

After two decades acting in film, television, and theater, it turns out that Joe Carlson is also a natural behind the camera. 

As the newest team member to join Channel 973, the in-house television station at Oak Crest, an Erickson Senior Living community in Parkville, Md., Carlson helps keep residents entertained, engaged, and informed. 

"I have always been interested in television production. When I heard there was an opening for a TV coordinator, I thought it would not only be a great opportunity to get more experience in audio, visual, and broadcast engineering, but to be part of a company with a heart for service," says Carlson. "Oak Crest's values-driven culture aligns with my personal values." 

Carlson joins Station Manager Allison Gerardy as a full-time staff member at the station. Together, they work with Oak Crest residents to host television programs, develop show content, manage video cameras, and run sound and light for various campus events.

"We always have a lot of projects in the pipeline. We produce resident-driven programming, weekly live update shows, and special programming filmed around campus," Carlson notes. "We also help other departments create content and residents promote their own groups."

Variety of programming

Fourteen shows are aired throughout the week, including fitness programs, such as yoga and stretching; spiritual programs, like live Catholic and Protestant services; and movies, shown three nights a week. 

Residents can tune in to informative shows like "Dining With Dakota," a one-on-one with Dining Director Dakota Scaletta to hear about the latest dining updates. 

"Meeting with Mark," cohosted by Executive Director Mark Roussey and Associate Executive Director Todd Sullivan, discusses programs, events, and other topics important to residents. They also take calls and answer questions live on air. 

"Sports Talk" is an original program cohosted by residents Wyatt Schuerholz and John Gregory, who offer insights and perspectives on the world of sports from the Oak Crest bocce league to the big leagues. Recently, the duo welcomed special guest Bill Dwyre--new resident and longtime sports editor for the Los Angeles Times--to discuss his career and current sports issues.

Wyatt also cohosts "Getting to Know You" with resident Judy Phebus. The 30-minute show, filmed at locations around campus, introduces viewers to new and longtime residents, helping everyone get to know each other. 

Great place to live and work

The kindness that Wyatt and Judy display on "Getting to Know You" is shared by all residents, notes        Carlson. 

"Everyone works together to make Oak Crest a great place to live and work. Over time, you find that you have a community of friends that feel like family," says Carlson. 

He recalls one meaningful interaction he had with residents who wanted to watch their grandson's lacrosse game that was airing on ESPN2. 

"They were having difficulty accessing the channel, so they asked if I could help," he explains. "While I was at their apartment home, we chatted about their grandson, and I mentioned I have a two-year-old daughter." 

He continues, "We ended up getting it working, and they wrote me a lovely thank you note. Now, every time I see them, I ask them how their grandson is doing and they ask me about my daughter. It's these little moments that mean so much." 

'So inspiring'

One of Carlson's goals as a TV coordinator is to encourage residents to give broadcasting a try. 

"You don't need experience to volunteer with the station," he says. "My acting mentor taught me that knowledge is only truly yours once you give it away. I love that residents come in wanting to learn."

Wyatt recalls that his love for the Baltimore Orioles initially landed him as a guest on "Getting to Know You." After his appearance, he decided he wanted to get involved.   

"I am so grateful to have the opportunity to be part of the TV studio. I am enjoying the heck out of it!" says Wyatt, with a laugh. 

Living life to the fullest

And since coming to Oak Crest just a little over a year ago, Carlson says he already has a new perspective on life. 

"The residents are so inspiring and live life to the fullest. It's made me realize that I have so much life ahead of me and so many opportunities to take advantage of," he says.

To learn more about senior living at this vibrant community, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and so much more.