A Time to Care: The Caregivers Podcast

In today’s episode of A Time to Care: The Caregivers Podcast, we speak with Amy Chastain, author of How to Find God in the Caregiver’s Journey. Amy opens her heart and shares how her personal relationship with God was both tested and strengthened through her caregiving experience. She candidly describes a time when she felt unworthy and had to return to the foundations of her faith to rebuild from within.

Amy emphasizes the vital importance of community, even when it feels incredibly vulnerable to admit we need help. She reminds us that healing is not a on...

In today’s episode of A Time to Care: The Caregivers Podcast, we sit down with Brian Lerch, a seasoned executive in healthcare who works at a rehabilitation hospital that supports individuals recovering from traumatic events—such as car accidents or major strokes.

Brian shares valuable insights into the journey of rehabilitation, where the goal is not just physical recovery but also emotional and mental transformation. Patients at his facility participate in three hours of therapy a day, focusing on regaining the ability to perform daily tasks. But the journey doesn’t stop there. A crucia...

 In this deeply moving episode of A Time to Care: The Caregivers Podcast, we speak with Rick Henkin, who shares his personal journey as a caregiver for his wife after she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Faced with overwhelming emotions, unanswered questions, and a heart heavy with grief, Rick found little external guidance to help him cope. So, he turned inward.

What followed was a profound internal transformation—a path toward peace, self-acceptance, and emotional resilience.

Rick opens up about the lessons he’s learned in this intimate caregiving journey. He encourages caregivers not to be too...

 In today’s episode of A Time to Care: The Caregivers Podcast, we sit down with Traci Poe, a communication expert with a powerful message—not about how we speak to others, but how we speak to ourselves.

Traci explains that one of the most damaging and overlooked forms of communication is our inner dialogue. Far too often, we mistreat ourselves with negative self-talk, using harsh labels or being overly critical. This internal narrative can quietly erode our confidence, especially during challenging life stages like caregiving or retirement.

To help shift this dynamic, Traci offers a sim...

 In this heartfelt episode of A Time to Care: The Caregivers Podcast, we speak with Deborah Armstrong, a specialist in senior isolation and loneliness. Deborah sheds light on a reality many older adults face: feeling disconnected from their families and the world around them. Whether it’s an inability to relate to the fast-paced conversations of their children and grandchildren or the impact of cognitive or mental health issues, isolation often leads to deep sadness or depression.

Deborah also reminds us how the COVID-19 pandemic heightened this problem, as everyone became more familiar with the toll that pro...

 In this inspiring episode of A Time to Care: The Caregivers Podcast, we sit down with Alara Rosenberg, a retirement coach who helps individuals navigate the emotional and practical transition into post-career life. Alara shares that one of the most essential steps in this phase is taking the time to reflect on key questions: Who are you now? What do you want to do? Who do you want to become?

She emphasizes the importance of social connection, encouraging retirees to build meaningful relationships and embrace the freedom to explore new interests. Retirement, she reminds us, is not a...

In today’s podcast episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Giancarlo Paolillo, whose background in law enforcement has inspired him to develop a cutting-edge mobile application designed to enhance safety and communication in elder care. Drawing from his experience on the police force, Giancarlo recognized the urgent need for real-time information sharing and reliable systems that support both caregivers and families.

His app—available for both Android and iOS—is versatile and scalable, making it ideal for individuals, small businesses, and large organizations alike. The platform allows users to document real-time biometric testing results, track medica...

In this episode of the podcast, we sit down with financial advisor Michael Lewis, who shares insightful perspectives on the intersection of brain health and financial planning.

Michael points out that certain cognitive decline conditions can begin developing 7 to 10 years before any noticeable symptoms appear. With this in mind, he strongly recommends that just as we schedule annual physical checkups, we should also routinely assess our cognitive function. Proactive brain health screenings can make a significant difference in long-term financial decision-making and personal well-being.

He also emphasizes that periods of high stress are some of...

Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Aneesh Chaudhry, who shares powerful insights into the connection between mental health and athletic performance. Through his work, Aneesh discovered that many athletes struggle to reach their full potential not due to physical limitations, but because of psychological barriers that often go unaddressed.

Motivated by this realization, he developed a specialized program designed to support athletes in nurturing strong mental well-being. His approach focuses on helping individuals build emotional resilience, foster inner peace, and maintain a balanced mindset—essential tools not only for sports but for life.

An...

Today on the podcast, we are joined by Miriam Bahar, a specialist in movement and transitions, who provides compassionate support to individuals—especially older adults—during the significant life event of relocating to a new home.

Miriam shares how moving is not simply about changing addresses; it is a deeply emotional and meaningful process. For many seniors, parting with personal belongings can be difficult, as these items often hold sentimental value and are linked to cherished memories. She emphasizes the importance of having support during this time—someone who can walk alongside them with empathy and understanding, helpin...

In this episode of our podcast, we have the pleasure of interviewing Traci Poe, a communication specialist with a deep understanding of human connection and emotional intelligence. Tracy shares valuable insights on how we can learn from others by observing and even mirroring their ways of expressing love, helping us to better connect with those around us—whether it's our partners, family members, or friends.

One of the key highlights of the episode is Traci’s explanation of the Five Love Languages, a concept developed by Dr. Gary Chapman that has transformed how many people understand and expr...

In today’s podcast episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Judy Swanson, who shares valuable insights on mental health and well-being. She provides practical tips on how to cultivate small sparks of joy in everyday life and emphasizes the importance of being kinder to yourself.

Judy encourages us to practice gratitude daily, engage in acts of kindness, smile more often, and find joy in the simple beauty of nature. She also explains how the way we phrase our thoughts and words can significantly impact our mood. For example, shifting from saying “I have to” to “I get to...

In this episode of our podcast, we have the pleasure of interviewing Jodi Benusa, a dedicated geriatric consultant who helps families find the ideal living arrangement for their aging loved ones. Her work is truly remarkable, as she goes beyond the surface to ensure that every placement is a perfect match.

Jodi follows a unique and thorough approach to finding the right senior living community. She starts by asking the right questions to understand not only the medical and physical needs of the elderly person but also their personality, lifestyle, and personal preferences. She then reaches out...

Today, we are thrilled to celebrate a major milestone—our 100th podcast episode! This journey has been incredible, and we are so grateful to have you as part of our community. Every episode has been an opportunity to learn, grow, and connect, and we couldn't have done it without you.

No matter where you are, we invite you to celebrate with us! Whether it’s by sharing your favorite episode, reflecting on the insights gained, or simply taking a moment to appreciate this journey, let’s make this a special occasion together.

Thank you for being...

In this podcast, we have the pleasure of interviewing Amy Bridger from Farmstead, an organization dedicated to honoring those who have passed away in a truly unique and heartfelt way.

Farmstead offers a special service that allows families to commemorate their loved ones in a serene and picturesque setting—a beautiful farm where ashes can be laid to rest in a manner that truly reflects the essence of the departed.

This peaceful haven provides a personalized farewell, ensuring that the final tribute aligns with what would have been most meaningful to the individual. Whether it’s du...

In this episode, we interview Alex Hall, a healthcare professional who shares valuable insights on the challenges women face during perimenopause—a transitional phase in life that often coincides with the responsibility of caring for aging parents. 

Alex highlights the importance of self-care, not just as a way to manage stress but as a powerful tool for self-discovery and renewed confidence. He offers practical advice on prioritizing personal well-being and maintaining balance while navigating this demanding stage of life. Tune in to hear his expert tips and strategies for embracing self-care during this transformative period.

In this episode of our podcast, we delve into the beauty and symbolism of the arrival of spring. As the season changes, we witness the rebirth of flowers, the lush green transformation of fields, and the return of migratory birds that had flown south during the winter months.

Winter often keeps people indoors, not only physically but also emotionally, as the cold and shorter days encourage a period of introspection and solitude. However, this retreat isn’t just within our homes—it happens in our minds as well. If we’re honest, the things we tell ourselves during...

In this episode, we sit down with Jeremy Holloway, who works on an inspiring project focused on intergenerational communication. He shares insights on what he considers the four key aspects of well-being: Mobility, Meditation, Medicine, and What Matters—the "4 Ms," as he calls them.

Among these, Jeremy emphasizes that the most important element is what truly matters to each individual. He reflects on how, from a young age, we have an innate desire to help and bring joy—first to our parents and later to others around us. This natural inclination to care for...

In this episode, we explore how we tend to write everything down—our to-do lists, things we've learned, important points, and even our thoughts. But one thing we often overlook is keeping track of what happens in the lives of others.

Being a caregiver can be a lonely journey, and having a list of what others are going through can serve as a powerful tool. It allows us to ask thoughtful questions, deepen our conversations, and foster genuine connections. This simple act of paying attention creates a sense of community—one that can offer support, understanding, and comp...

Many of us were raised to prioritize others' feelings so much that we’ve forgotten how to say “no.” We’ve been conditioned to avoid discomfort and ensure we don’t hurt anyone, but in doing so, we often neglect our own needs.

Saying "no" isn’t about rejecting others; it's about honoring yourself. When we refuse something that doesn’t serve us, we’re making space for what truly matters. Sometimes that means certain tasks might not get done—or someone else will step in to handle them—and that's okay.

It’s also important to remember...

In today’s episode, we sit down with Christopher Hensley, a financial advisor with years of expertise in guiding families through financial planning. Christopher shares invaluable advice tailored specifically for caregivers, focusing on how to manage the finances of their loved ones with care and foresight.

One of his key messages is the importance of taking proactive steps: “Do it before you need it.” Christopher emphasizes the significance of planning ahead to avoid stress and ensure that resources are available when they’re most needed.

From budgeting for medical expenses to setting up a sustainable financia...

This episode is a heartfelt invitation to practice self-appreciation and self-care. Isabel shares practical tips on how to be gentler with ourselves, acknowledge our efforts, and treat ourselves with the same care and affection we offer to others. Whether it's indulging in a small treat, taking a quiet moment to reflect on your progress, or simply speaking kind words to yourself, she encourages you to embrace the day as an opportunity to honor your own journey.

Don't miss this inspiring episode filled with warmth, encouragement, and self-love.

In today’s podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome Paul and Rachel, who share their wisdom on mindfulness, chocolate, yoga and self-care. They dive into the incredible benefits of cacao, highlighting it as one of the most powerful antioxidants available. They also explain how combining cacao with other natural ingredients from the earth can help us feel more grounded and connected.

Beyond the science, Paul and Rachel offer practical tips on how to enhance your everyday experiences, turning ordinary moments at home into opportunities for emotional connection and joy. Whether you’re looking to bring more mindfulness into y...

In this episode, I share practical tips to help you break free from dwelling on the past and bring your focus back to the present. It's easy to get caught in the cycle of reliving moments that are long gone, but there are ways to regain control of your thoughts and emotions.

The first step is awareness. Recognize when your mind has wandered back to the past. Ask yourself:

Acknowledging yo...

In this episode, we ask a simple yet profound question: Are you truly enjoying the present moment? So often, we find ourselves stuck in the past or consumed by the future, missing the beauty and joy of the now.

The past is gone—it no longer exists except in our memories. Holding onto it, whether through regret or nostalgia, can weigh us down. The key is to let it go and release its hold on our present.

The future, on the other hand, is where our minds often wander with worry. When we think ahead, we...

In this episode, we dive into the vital yet often overlooked practice of auditing your relationships. Our connections have a profound impact on our emotions, energy, and personal growth.

It's often said that we are the average of the five people we spend the most time with. If we surround ourselves with individuals who are consistently negative or sad, we may find ourselves feeling emotionally drained or weighed down. On the other hand, being around uplifting, supportive people can inspire us to become the best versions of ourselves.

The purpose of this practice isn’t to...

In this episode, we explore the transformative practice of auditing your daily activities to create a more fulfilling and intentional life.

Many people take time to track their daily routines over the course of a few days, writing down every activity they engage in. This process provides valuable insights into how you spend your time and how those activities make you feel.

When it comes to decluttering your schedule, your emotions are a crucial guide. Ask yourself:

For tasks that...

Welcome to the very first podcast episode of 2025! In this episode, Isabel dives into the art of setting meaningful goals to kickstart your year with intention and focus. She breaks down a powerful, straightforward process to help you clarify and achieve your aspirations:

Our final podcast of the year is a guided reflection to celebrate and appreciate the moments that brought us joy and growth. It’s an opportunity to relive those memories and savor them once more.

This reflection also invites you to take a moment of gratitude for the people who crossed your path this year and made a positive impact in your life.

We warmly invite you to listen, reflect, and embrace this journey of gratitude.

Sometimes, we set goals for ourselves and feel worried or frustrated when we don’t achieve them. In these moments, it’s important to “let it go” and remind ourselves that our worth as human beings isn’t tied to the goals we achieve.

Goals are valuable tools to guide and motivate us, but they don’t define who we are. Life is full of unpredictable twists and turns, and sometimes not meeting a goal can lead us to unexpected growth or opportunities. Be kind to yourself, celebrate the effort you put in, and remember that your inherent val...

In this fascinating interview, Alyssa, an experienced executive coach, delves into how our bodies often signal what’s happening beneath the surface. She explains that grief, being an internal experience, is something we may deny or ignore. Grief doesn’t always stem from negative events—it can arise from positive changes too, or simply from losing something that once was.

Ignoring grief doesn’t mean it’s resolved. Alyssa emphasizes the importance of recognizing these feelings and processing them. She also highlights the value of having a supportive community where you can share your emotions openly, helping you naviga...

Gradual changes in children and the elderly often go unnoticed, but when a noticeable shift occurs in an elderly loved one, it can lead to the need for challenging conversations. These moments can be delicate, whether you're the one initiating the conversation or on the receiving end of it.

If you're the one starting the conversation, take time to understand the perspective of those you're speaking with. People generally mean well and want what’s best for their loved one, even if their words or actions seem hurtful. Avoid taking things personally, and focus on the shared go...

In this podcast, I talk about the importance of not taking responsibility for others' feelings. Many times, we assume we know why people feel or act the way they do, often without actually asking them. This tendency comes from the fact that many of us were never taught to ask or even to openly discuss emotions. When we feel a physical sensation or reaction in our own bodies—like tension, a racing heartbeat, or discomfort—it’s a signal to pay attention. These sensations are often tied to thoughts and emotions, and acknowledging them can help us better understand our re...

I had the pleasure of listening to Traci Steelman, who joins us in this podcast to discuss the important topic of finance. Her insights are incredibly enlightening and provide valuable information that can help listeners navigate their financial journeys. Traci shares practical tips and strategies for managing personal finances, understanding investments, and planning for the future. Don’t miss out on this fascinating conversation!

I’ve researched the work circumstances of caregivers and have found that, generally, the unique needs and challenges of caregivers often go unrecognized in the workplace. I would love to hear about your experiences—your perspectives, challenges, what strategies have worked for you, what you’d like to change, what keeps you motivated, and what adjustments you would hope for in your work environment. If we aim for more support at work, it’s crucial to share both our strengths and struggles. I invite you to share yours with me.

Today, we have the pleasure of interviewing Kori Linn, who offers invaluable insights on setting boundaries and why our own mental conditioning can sometimes make establishing them feel surprisingly difficult. She explains how societal norms, upbringing, and personal beliefs often play into why we hesitate to protect our time and energy. Kori also tackles the topic of burnout, shedding light on some of its primary causes—such as overcommitment, lack of support, and unclear boundaries—and emphasizes the importance of addressing burnout symptoms as soon as they surface, which makes recovery and regaining balance more manageable. Finally, she shares prac...

This podcast highlights the essential role of having a strong support group, a safe space where you feel understood and where you can openly share your experiences. It’s a place to talk through life’s challenges without fear of judgment, to be heard, and to gain perspective. Support groups help people recognize and validate their struggles, offering comfort, resources, and advice to navigate difficult times. Having a network of people who empathize can make an enormous difference, helping you build resilience and find solutions that bring growth and relief.

Negotiation is something we all learn from a young age. We negotiate with ourselves, with those around us, and with life itself. To be successful in negotiation, it's crucial to identify what we are unwilling to sacrifice and to be clear about setting boundaries. Understanding your non-negotiables allows you to approach situations with confidence and clarity. Whether in personal relationships, at work, or in everyday decisions, knowing where to draw the line is key to effective negotiation. Establishing boundaries isn’t just about protecting what matters to you, it also fosters respect and healthier interactions with others.

In most life projects, whether personal or professional, there is typically a planning phase. However, when it comes to caregiving, many people find themselves in the role without any prior thought or preparation, simply reacting as things unfold. It’s important to consciously decide how much time you want to dedicate to being a caregiver—whether part-time, full-time, remotely, or by providing only financial or emotional support. Once you’ve made that decision, it’s crucial to establish your non-negotiables: which tasks you can and want to handle, and which ones you cannot. Regularly reassessing these aspects is a healthy...

The brain has certain ways of thinking that make it difficult to follow advice, even when we receive it, until our brain actually believes it. As women, many of us were raised to prioritize the well-being and service of others over our own, and changing this mindset requires a conscious process and effort. The first step is becoming aware of the internal dialogue we have with ourselves. Once we recognize these thoughts, we can begin to introduce neutral thoughts, gradually teaching our brain to accept them. Ultimately, this will allow us to integrate thoughts of self-care and kindness, creating...