Aging Together // Unfiltered
TL;DR: A podcast for adult children of aging parents and family caregivers who want honest, no-fluff conversations about aging, care, and caregiving. We talk about what’s working, what’s broken, and what needs to change—without sugarcoating or euphemisms.Aging Together // Unfiltered explores the real challenges and hard decisions families face as they support aging loved ones. Hosted by Dr. Pooja A. Patel—a double-board certified occupational therapist and gerontologist, and longtime caregiver advocate—this show moves beyond “proper” conversations and into the realities families are navigating every day.After four seasons of carefully curated, polished discussions, this podcast is now...
Lost in Translation: Why the U.S. Caregiving System Fails South Asian Families
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Content Type: Interview
Primary Goal: Discussion
Summary:
This episode explores the elder care navigation gap faced by immigrant families in the US, highlighting cultural, systemic, and language barriers. Salina Shah shares insights on building culturally grounded support networks to improve elder care outcomes.
Key Topics:
The System Keeps You Alive, Not Well: Caregiving & Health Span in a Longevity Era
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Content type: Interview
Primary Goal: Educational
Summary:
This episode explores the critical issues of caregiving, health span versus lifespan, and the importance of proactive planning for aging well. Nancy Griffin, an expert in longevity and aging, shares insights on how caregivers can prioritize their health, navigate systemic challenges, and foster intergenerational support.
Key Topics:
The Question of When: Why Most Families Wait Too Long to Plan for Placement
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Summary
In this episode, Pooja & Cory discuss the complexities of long-term care planning, exploring options, timing, and decision-making processes for families facing elder care decisions.
Key Topics
About Cory
Cory Fosco is the author of "The Question of When: A Practical Guide to Knowing...
The ER Wasn't Built for Seniors: What is Hospital-Level Care at Home?
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summary
This episode explores the future of hospital-level care at home, addressing why it hasn't become mainstream yet, and how it can reduce costs, improve patient outcomes, and ease caregiver burdens. Lon Hecht, CEO of Care2U, shares insights on innovative in-home acute care models, insurance coverage, and the impact on healthcare systems.
key topics
Barriers to hospital at home adoptionCare2U's model of in-home acute careInsurance coverage for hospital at homeImpact on caregivers and familiesCost savings and healthcare system benefits
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Long-Term Care Will Wipe Out Your Wealth: Can Home Equity Be Your Plan?
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Summary:
This episode explores the critical topic of long-term care funding, focusing on innovative solutions like reverse mortgages and insurance options. Kevin Guttman, a reverse mortgage expert, shares insights on how seniors can leverage home equity and insurance to secure their future care needs.
Key Topics:
Long-term care funding optionsReverse mortgages explainedInsurance strategies for seniorsUsing home equity for care costsMyths and misconceptions about reverse mortgagesAbout Kevin Guttman, CRMP:
Kevin Guttman is a senior mortgage broker, a r...
Dementia & Financial Exploitation: Who's Responsible?
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Summary:
This episode explores the silent crisis of elder financial exploitation, especially in the context of dementia. Charles Wallace shares his harrowing three-year legal battle to uncover how nearly $1 million was stolen from his mother, highlighting systemic failures and the urgent need for better safeguards.
Key Topics:
Elder financial exploitation and dementiaSystemic failures and responsibility gapsLegal and medical challenges in elder abuse casesAbout Charles E. Wallace, Jr.:
Charles E. Wallace Jr. has a technology background in the finance, ba...
Why Isn’t This Covered? The Truth About Home Medical Equipment and Insurance
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summary
This episode explores the critical role of home medical equipment in aging in place, insurance coverage challenges, and practical strategies for families to access necessary adaptive devices. Erica Sell, founder of Harmony Home Medical, shares insights on how policy and awareness can improve safety and reduce healthcare costs.
key topics
About Erica Sell, ATP, CAPS:
Erica Sell is the Founder and CEO of...
Can I Sue for This? Accountability In Nursing Homes
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Summary
In this conversation, Pooja A. Patel and Riz Ali discuss the complexities of personal injury law, particularly in the context of nursing homes. They explore the nuances of medical negligence, the importance of family advocacy, and the challenges of accountability within nursing homes. The discussion highlights the critical role of documentation and the legal expectations families should have when pursuing justice for their loved ones. The conversation emphasizes the need for families to be proactive in their loved ones' care and to understand their rights within the long-term...
ADA Doesn't Help Everybody: How to Design Inclusive Spaces
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Summary
In this conversation, Pooja A. Patel and Francisco Lasta explore the complexities of accessibility, universal design, and inclusive design. They discuss the evolution of these concepts, the challenges faced in implementing inclusive design, and the critical role of occupational therapy in shaping built environments. The conversation highlights the need for flexibility in design to accommodate diverse needs and emphasizes the importance of user experience in public spaces. They also touch on innovative approaches to design that prioritize both functionality and aesthetics, advocating for a future where inclusive design...
Widowed at 33: The Caregiving, The Grief, & Everything in Between
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Summary
This conversation delves into the profound journey of caregiving, grief, and loss experienced by a young widow. The speaker shares her personal story of navigating the challenges of caregiving for her husband, diagnosed with a brain tumor, the emotional toll it took, and the societal perceptions of young widows. The discussion highlights the importance of support, understanding, and patience from the community during such difficult times, as well as the ongoing struggle of managing grief after loss.
Takeaways
Home Modifications Are NOT A Weekend Project: The Reality of Aging in Place
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Summary:
In this conversation, Pooja A. Patel and Dawn Heiderscheidt discuss the complexities of aging in place and the importance of proactive planning for home modifications. They explore the misconceptions surrounding home modifications, the need for financial planning, and the generational differences in attitudes towards aging. The discussion emphasizes the importance of collaboration between healthcare professionals and contractors, as well as the need for aesthetic considerations in home modifications to maintain dignity and comfort for aging individuals.
Takeaways:
Aging in place requires thoughtful planning a...We're Guilt-Tripping Families Into Dementia Care: A Systems Issue
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Summary
In this conversation, Pooja A. Patel and Rachel Wiley discuss the systemic challenges in dementia care, emphasizing the unrealistic expectations placed on families and the inadequacies of memory care facilities. They explore the importance of communication between caregivers and families, the need for early diagnosis, and the role of occupational therapy in supporting individuals with dementia. The discussion also highlights positive changes in dementia care and the growing community awareness surrounding the issue.
Takeaways
Too Poor to Afford Care, Too Rich for Medicaid: The Forgotten Middle of Aging
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Summary
In this conversation, Pooja A. Patel and Dr. Brandy Archie discuss the challenges faced by the 'forgotten middle' in elder care, particularly regarding Medicare's limitations and the lack of resources available for those who do not qualify for Medicaid. They explore the importance of health literacy, the role of technology in providing solutions, and the necessity of involving occupational therapists in planning for aging in place. The discussion emphasizes the need for better access to information and resources, as well as the importance of planning ahead to ensure...
When Care Is an Hour Away: The Reality of Aging in Rural America
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In this episode, Dr. Pooja A. Patel and Dr. Sydney Marshman delve into the critical issue of healthcare access in rural communities, emphasizing how geographical location significantly impacts the quality of care individuals receive as they age. They discuss the disparities in access to primary care, specialty services, and the challenges faced by families in rural areas when seeking medical attention. Dr. Marshman shares her experiences as an occupational therapist working with older adults in Iowa, highlighting the importance of home assessments and therapy services that cater to the unique needs of rural...
Season 5 Trailer
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We don’t need more polished narratives right now.
We need honesty, especially in healthcare.
Caregiving, aging, access to care, dementia, systems that fail quietly—these realities are already heavy. Sugarcoating them doesn’t protect anyone. It just delays the conversations families are forced to have anyway.
Season 5 of Aging Together is unfiltered by design.
More direct. Less comfortable. Willing to name what’s actually happening, especially in the context of current events that continue to expose how fragile our care systems really are.
This sea...
S4E20: Women's Health - Hormones, Fitness, & Recovery | Karlin Soelberg
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Summary
In this conversation, Karlin D. Soelberg shares her personal journey of navigating health challenges after turning 40, particularly focusing on her experience with hormonal changes and the difficulties in finding appropriate medical care. She emphasizes the importance of patient advocacy and education in addressing women's health issues, especially when faced with dismissive attitudes from healthcare providers.
Takeaways
About the Guest
S4E19: Navigating Grief - from SIL to Mother to Husband | Leslie Frank
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Summary
In this conversation, Leslie Frank shares her extensive experience as a caregiver for her husband, mother, and sister-in-law, highlighting the emotional and logistical challenges of navigating long-term care. She discusses the importance of finding the right care setting, the complexities of grief, and the necessity of self-care for caregivers. Leslie emphasizes the value of support systems, patient advocacy, and the need for ongoing communication with care providers. Her insights provide a roadmap for others facing similar situations, encouraging them to focus on what truly matters for their loved...
S4E18: Tech Tools to Support Elders | Alfred Poor, Health Tech Futurist
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Summary
In this episode of the Aging Together podcast, Dr. Pooja A. Patel interviews Alfred Poor, a health tech futurist, about the intersection of health technology and aging. They discuss the evolution of health tech, the importance of wearable devices, and the challenges faced by caregivers. Alfred shares his personal experiences with technology in caring for his elderly mother and emphasizes the need for tailored solutions that respect the dignity and independence of aging adults. The conversation also highlights the role of employers in supporting caregivers and the necessity...
S4E17: Cultural Perspective: Filial Piety & Remote Work | Vijay Sairam
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Summary
In this conversation, Vijay Sairam shares his transformative journey as a caregiver for his aging parents and how it shaped his mission to democratize access to remote jobs through his startup, Remote Job Central. He discusses the importance of flexibility in work for caregivers, cultural perspectives on caregiving, and the need for a supportive work environment that prioritizes family. Vijay emphasizes that caregiving is an expression of love and duty, and he advocates for remote work as a lifeline for those balancing personal and professional responsibilities. He encourages caregivers to...
S4E16: The 8 Dimensions of Wealth(ness) | Jaelyn (Jae) Vickery, LSW, CFT
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Summary
In this episode of the Aging Together podcast, Dr. Pooja A. Patel interviews Jaylen Vickery, a certified financial therapist, about the intersection of financial wellness and emotional health. They discuss the seven dimensions of wellness, the importance of building a relationship with one's future self, and the challenges faced by caregivers. Jaylen shares her Five Reps to Wealth approach, emphasizing the need for compassionate accountability and the significance of preventative care in achieving a balanced life. The conversation highlights the emotional burdens caregivers carry and offers insights into...
S4E15: Grief & Strength: Raising Children while Losing a Spouse | Allyson Schrier, MFA
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Summary
In this conversation, Allison Schrier shares her profound journey as a caregiver for her husband, diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia, while raising two children. She discusses the emotional turmoil of navigating grief, the challenges of parenting through loss, and the importance of maintaining family dynamics. Allison reflects on her transformation from caregiver to dementia educator, emphasizing the need for resources and support for families dealing with similar situations. The conversation highlights resilience, the complexities of caregiving, and the creation of Zinnia TV, a resource aimed at helping caregivers and...
S4E14: Supportive Living Communities: Finding the Just-Right Fit for You | Dawn Marie Johnson
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Summary:
In this episode of the Aging Together podcast, Dr. Pooja A. Patel interviews Dawn Marie Johnson, a seasoned professional in the senior living industry. They discuss the evolution of supportive living options, the importance of family involvement, and the challenges faced by caregivers. Dawn shares her personal journey into the industry, emphasizing the significance of holistic well-being and the role of technology in enhancing the quality of life for seniors. The conversation also touches on the future of senior living communities, the need for affordability, and the importance o...
S4E13: Sandwich Generation Caregiving: A Story of Radical Acceptance | Amy Martin Quinn, MBA, BCPA
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Summary
In this conversation, Amy Martin Quinn shares her experiences as a communications executive turned patient advocate, navigating the complexities of the sandwich generation. She discusses her personal health challenges, the impact of caregiving for her parents while raising her daughters, and the importance of community support. Amy emphasizes the concept of radical acceptance, the necessity of setting boundaries, and the cultural dynamics that influence caregiving roles. Through her journey, she highlights the significance of allowing others to help and the emotional toll of caregiving, especially during times of...
S4E12: From Provider to Caregiver: Navigating Trauma & Compartmentalization | Lorna J. Hines, LCSW, ACSW
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Summary
In this episode of the Aging Together podcast, Dr. Pooja A. Patel speaks with Reverend Lorna J. Hines, a licensed clinical social worker and caregiver, about her extensive experience in caregiving and the emotional toll it takes. They discuss the systemic barriers caregivers face, the importance of seeking help, and the impact of trauma on both caregivers and their loved ones. Reverend Hines shares her personal journey, including the challenges of caring for her parents and the lessons learned along the way. The conversation emphasizes the need for...
S4E11: Navigating Family Dynamics: A Story of Elder Exploitation | Debora Pokallus
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Summary
Deborah Pocalas shares her harrowing experience of elder exploitation involving her father, revealing the complexities of family dynamics, betrayal, and the emotional toll of caregiving. She discusses the discovery of theft by a sibling, the impact of medical misdiagnosis, and the challenges of navigating guardianship. Throughout the conversation, Deborah emphasizes the importance of documentation, recognizing red flags, and finding support during difficult times. Her story serves as a cautionary tale for caregivers and families dealing with similar situations.
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Takeaways
S4E10: Integrative Dental Care for Older Adults | Dr. Joy Poskozim, DDS, FSCD, CDP
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Summary
In this episode of the Aging Together podcast, Dr. Joy Poskozim discusses the critical importance of oral health for older adults, particularly those in nursing homes and receiving home care. She highlights the connection between oral health and overall health, emphasizing how poor dental care can lead to serious health issues. Dr. Poskozim shares her experiences advocating for better oral care practices and the challenges faced by caregivers in ensuring proper dental hygiene. She also provides practical tips for caregivers and discusses the need for systemic changes in...
S4E09: Caregiver Mastery: Finding Peace in the Chaos of Emotions | Rick Henkin
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Summary
Rick Henkin shares his personal journey as a caregiver for his wife Sonia, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. He discusses the challenges of obtaining a diagnosis, the emotional toll on caregivers, and the importance of acceptance and mindfulness. Rick created the Caregiver Mastery System to help others navigate the complexities of caregiving while maintaining their own mental health. He emphasizes the need for caregivers to prioritize their well-being and offers practical advice for managing stress and guilt.
Takeaways
S4E08: Skin Health through the Ages | Dr. Mary Alice Mina
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Summary
In this episode of the Aging Together podcast, Dr. Pooja A. Patel and Dr. Mary Alice Mina discuss the importance of skin health as we age. They explore the concept of pro-aging versus anti-aging, emphasizing the need for prevention and protection for younger skin, as well as the management of chronic skin conditions in older adults. Dr. Mina shares her journey into dermatology, the significance of a holistic approach to skin health, and the role of dermatologists in guiding patients. The conversation also touches on the misconceptions surrounding...
S4E07: "Boomers Booming": 10 Commandments for Seniors | H. Frances Reaves, Esq.
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Summary
In this episode of the Aging Together podcast, host Dr. Patel speaks with elder law attorney H. Frances Reeves about her journey as a caregiver for her parents, the challenges of navigating the medical industrial complex, and her new book, 'Boomers Booming: How to Thrive After 65 and Have Good Sex.' Frances shares her insights on aging, the importance of proactive planning, and her ten commandments for thriving in later life. The conversation emphasizes the need to challenge stereotypes about aging and the significance of mindset in preparing...
S4E06: Caregiving Beyond Life: One Woman's Journey of Caring for Her Late Husband's Mother | Alison Pena
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Summary
In this episode of the Aging Together podcast, Dr. Pooja A. Patel interviews Allison Penna, a grief resilience coach, who shares her personal journey of caregiving and navigating grief after the loss of her husband. Allison discusses the challenges of caregiving, the importance of setting boundaries, and the need for self-care. She emphasizes the significance of building new networks and reconnecting with oneself after loss. The conversation highlights the often misunderstood nature of grief and the essential role of love and support in the caregiving process.
<...
S4E04: End-of-Life Emotional Insurance Planning | Dr. Kim Harms, JD
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Summary
In this conversation, Dr. Kim Harms, an end-of-life expert, shares her personal journey through grief and the importance of legacy planning. She discusses the concept of emotional insurance, the significance of building emotional legacies, and practical steps individuals can take to prepare for their end of life. The conversation also touches on navigating difficult conversations about death, overcoming procrastination, and the impact of cultural attitudes and spirituality on the end-of-life experience. Dr. Harms emphasizes the need for open discussions about death and encourages listeners to take proactive steps...
S4E04: When Care Meets Cost: A Daughter’s Guide to Balancing Aging & Affordability | Arvette M. Reid, AIF
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Summary
In this episode of the Aging Together podcast, Dr. Pooja A. Patel and Arvette M. Reid discuss the critical intersection of healthcare and financial planning for aging adults. Arvette shares her personal journey into elder care, emphasizing the importance of family conversations, the role of care managers, and the unique challenges faced by solo agers. They highlight the need for systemic changes in elder care policies, particularly regarding dementia care, and stress the importance of education and planning for families navigating these complex issues.
Takeaways<...
S4E03: Caring Across Borders: Navigating Care Between US & Canada | Amy Friesen
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Summary
In this episode of the Aging Together podcast, host Pooja Patel speaks with Amy Friesen, a bestselling author and expert in the senior living industry. They discuss the challenges and similarities in caregiving across borders, the importance of early planning, and the emotional toll on caregivers. Amy shares insights from her book 'Breadcrumbs' and emphasizes the need for support and resources for families navigating elder care. The conversation highlights the cultural expectations surrounding caregiving and the systemic changes needed to improve care for older adults.
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S4E02: Self-Care Isn't Selfish: Practical Strategies for Thriving as a Caregiver | Carol L. Stokes, JD
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Summary
In this episode of the Aging Together podcast, Dr. Pooja A. Patel speaks with Carol L. Stokes, JD, a caregiver coach and advocate. They discuss the challenges faced by caregivers, particularly women, and the importance of self-care, communication, and planning in caregiving. Carol shares her personal journey and insights on how caregivers can reclaim their sense of self and find support. The conversation emphasizes the need for systemic changes to support caregivers and the importance of education and resources in navigating caregiving responsibilities.
Takeaways<...
S4E01: Intergenerational Living: Creating a Montessori Ecosystem for Dementia Care in Your Home | Annie Kulik, MPH, CDP, CMDCP
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Summary
In this conversation, Pooja & Annie explore the Montessori approach & its application in dementia care, particularly in intergenerational settings. Annie shares her extensive experience in working with both children & elders, emphasizing the importance of purposeful engagement & creating supportive environments. They discuss various activities that can benefit both age groups, the challenges faced in intergenerational care, & the significance of respite care for caregivers. The conversation also touches on the role of technology & resources available for families, as well as navigating regulations in intergenerational care settings. Ultimately, the discussion highlights the...
S4E00: Revolutionizing Grab Bars: Meet SafetyGrip, by Hartmobility | Kerry Flickner, VP
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Summary:
In this conversation, Dr. Pooja A. Patel speaks with Kerry Flickner, vice president at Hartmobility, about the innovative SafetyGrip grab bar designed for individuals with compromised grip strength. They discuss the evolution of grab bars, the inspiration behind SafetyGrip, and the collaboration with KITE Rehab Research Institute. The conversation highlights the importance of aesthetics in product design, early adoption feedback, partnerships for community engagement, and future research on the product's effectiveness. Flickner emphasizes the need for better solutions for aging populations and the importance of educating caregivers and u...
Season 4 Trailer
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Welcome to Season 4!
If you're new here, thank you for joining us!
If you're returning, thank you for your support!
We've got our first-ever LIVE streams this season, along with our very first sponsor.
I can't wait to see and hear what you think! Leave some comments :)
S4 Sponsor: SafetyGrip, by HartmobilityPatented anti-slip grip technology for all your home safety needs.
Caregiver Health Tracking Journal
How do you keep track of all the appointments and medications and more?? Check out...
S3E10: When Parenting Doesn't End: Caring for "Difficult Adult Children" | Dr. Judith "Judy" Smith
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Guest: Dr. Judith "Judy" Smith, Ph.D., LCSW
Judith R. Smith, Ph.D., LCSW, is a NYC based psychotherapist, professor, and researcher on women’s issues as they age. She is a professor, Emerita, at Fordham University. She offers support groups on-line for mothers with difficult adult children. Her book, Difficult: Mothering Challenging Adult Children through Conflict and Change, is based on a three-year research project, and brings to life the stories of fifty women, each over sixty years old, whose lives were drastically altered by becoming the default safe...
S3E09: A Lifetime of Caregiving: Supporting Patient Advocacy | Phyllis Anderson (Caregiver Story 5/5)
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Guest: Phyllis Anderson, Retired RN, CEN; RCFE-RCA
Phyllis is a retired nurse with nearly three decades of experience, including 22 years in the emergency room and time as an administrator for a memory care facility for individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia. She is the founder and author of Carefolio, a medical healthcare journal designed to empower individuals and caregivers to take charge of their health and effectively track caregiving details.
Phyllis’s passion for health advocacy stems from her extensive nursing background and personal expe...
S3E08: Have Empathy for Your Care Providers: A Plea to Care Consumers | Emily Clark
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Guest: Emily Clark, M.A., CCC-SLP, RYT 500 Hour Yoga Instructor, Meditation Instructor, Life Coach
Emily Clark is a Life Coach, RYT-500 Yoga Instructor, Meditation Instructor and founder of Abundant Wellness with Emily. Being a former Speech-Language Pathologist in the healthcare industry it was from her own struggles with pouring her heart and soul into her career, being a mom and wife and feeling the pressure of always having to deliver results that she started her journey to radiant living. Through studying Yoga Philosophy, Meditation, Western healing modalities and the...
