A Time to Care: The Caregivers Podcast

Most families are one missed call away from falling out of sync. Chad Hensle built an AI-powered check-in service that sends three warm texts a day to aging parents, then turns their replies into a simple daily recap for the family - no app required. Isabel Melgarejo talks with Chad about the real caregiving problem that sparked Juta: a family trying to stay connected while an aunt’s dementia, a busy uncle, and a tangled relay of updates made even basic communication harder than it should be. What started as a solution for his own family quickly be...

Hospital stays can feel overwhelming, but preparation can make all the difference.

In this episode, Isabel speaks with Dr. Monique Nugent about how caregivers can confidently navigate the hospital experience, communicate effectively with healthcare teams, prepare for discharge, and build realistic care plans that support both the patient and themselves.

A practical and compassionate conversation for anyone caring for an aging parent, spouse, or loved one with complex medical needs.

When families begin planning for the future, they often receive information one piece at a time. Medicare from one source. Social Security from another. Financial planning somewhere else.

In this episode, Isabel Melgarejo talks with Natalie Contorno about bringing those pieces together to help families see the bigger picture.

Together they explore what Medicare covers, why long-term care planning is essential, how Social Security fits into the conversation, and why building relationships with trusted professionals can bring clarity and peace of mind.

If you're preparing for retirement, supporting aging parents, or simply want...

What if the hardest moments of your life could become the very experiences that help you care for others with greater compassion?

In this episode, Isabel Melgarejo sits down with author Rebecca (Becky) Galli to discuss caregiving, grief, resilience, journaling, and the daily practices that help us keep moving forward—even when life doesn't go as planned.

Together they share practical tools for processing emotions, finding peace during uncertainty, building a healthy support system, and discovering hope one day at a time.

Whether you're caring for an aging parent, a spouse, a child wi...

What if your symptoms are trying to tell you something?

In this episode, Isabel Melgarejo talks with Gail Blair about the powerful connection between mind, body, and spirit.

Gail shares how learning to listen to your body's signals, caring for yourself as a caregiver, and embracing purpose, movement, and community can lead to greater health, healing, and hope.

Can music reconnect someone with memories that seem lost?

In this episode, Isabel Melgarejo talks with Dan Cohen, founder of the Music & Memory movement, about how personalized music can reduce anxiety, spark meaningful memories, ease caregiving challenges, and bring moments of joy to people living with dementia.

Discover simple, practical ways to use music as a powerful tool for connection, comfort, and hope—for both caregivers and their loved ones.

When is it time to stop driving?

For many older adults, driving symbolizes independence and freedom. For caregivers, concerns about driving safety can bring uncertainty, worry, and difficult conversations.

In this episode, occupational therapist and driver evaluation specialist Judy Romano shares practical guidance for recognizing warning signs, approaching conversations with compassion, and helping loved ones maintain dignity and quality of life while prioritizing safety.

A thoughtful and encouraging resource for anyone caring for aging parents or supporting a loved one through changing abilities.

Autism caregiving can place deep emotional and practical demands on families. In this gentle conversation, Teresa Lyons, PhD and Isabel Melgarejo explore family dynamics, caregiver burnout, multigenerational support, and the importance of sharing care with steadiness and compassion.

Sometimes caregiving is not only about caring for someone else—it is about learning how to care for the way you speak to yourself.

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, Isabel welcomes Joseph Brooks, motivational speaker, caregiver, and resilience leader, for a conversation about grief, difficult decisions, perfectionism, and the daily practice of self-belief.

After growing up in a violent neighborhood, losing both parents at a young age, caring for his wife through years of severe illness, and eventually facing the heartbreaking decision to remove life support, Joseph brings a perspective rooted in lived experience, fa...

What if care could also look like fresh air, nature, and the gentle rhythm of a horse?

In this heartfelt episode, Isabel speaks with Dr. Beth Fields about Riding in the Moment, an adaptive horseback riding program created for adults living with dementia.

Together, they explore how horses, movement, and community can support joy, connection, balance, long-term memory, and moments of relief for caregivers as well.

This is a hopeful conversation about the many ways care can remain meaningful, human, and deeply connected to what brings us alive.

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How does caregiving change who we become?

In this deeply moving conversation, Isabel speaks with author Suzy McNamara about caring for her husband through early-onset Alzheimer’s, the grief of watching someone change, and the importance of finding joy in the present moment.

This episode explores identity shifts, caregiver isolation, allowing others to help, and learning to honor yourself through the caregiving journey.

A gentle, honest conversation for anyone navigating long-term care, grief, or the emotional weight of loving someone through illness.

AI is becoming part of everyday life, and for caregivers, that can bring both curiosity and quiet uncertainty.

In this conversation, Isabel Melgarejo and Dr. Jeremy Holloway explore what it means to use AI in a way that feels supportive—without losing the human presence that caregiving requires.

Together, they reflect on the balance between receiving help and staying grounded…. between using tools and holding on to your own judgment, intuition, and care.

This is not about getting it right.

It is about finding a way to let AI sit beside you—...

Reverse mortgages are often misunderstood — and that fear can keep families from exploring helpful options.

In this episode of A Time to Care, Isabel talks with Kristy Osborne, a mortgage and reverse mortgage specialist, about what these loans really are, who they’re for, and how they can support caregivers and retirees.

They discuss common myths, planning strategies, and real stories of people using home equity to create more peace of mind in retirement.

This is an educational conversation to help you make informed, confident choices.

To c...

Caregivers are always giving — but who takes care of them?

In this episode of A Time to Care: The Caregivers Podcast, Isabel sits down with Amy Temperley, founder of Aging is Cool, to talk about movement, rest, purpose, and finding joy even in the hardest caregiving seasons.

They explore:

✨ Why small movement matters more than big workouts

✨ How rest is not laziness — it’s survival

✨ Ways caregivers can protect their energy

✨ How to find meaning during grief and burnout

✨ Simple daily pra...

What if success didn’t have to cost your peace?

In this episode of A Time to Care: The Caregivers Podcast, Isabel sits down with wellness coach Jessica Rich to talk about something many caregivers silently struggle with: burnout, pressure, and the belief that we must always carry everyone else first.

Jessica shares her journey from senior corporate leadership to redefining success on her own terms — walking away from burnout, setting boundaries, and creating a life rooted in harmony instead of hustle.

Together, we explore:

In this heartfelt episode, Isabel sits down with Maureen Jirikowic, founder of Miracles of Beauty, to explore what it really means to rediscover yourself after caregiving, grief, and major life transitions. Drawing from her journey as a caregiver to her late husband, Maureen shares how style, self-care, and small daily choices can become powerful tools for healing, confidence, and renewal. This conversation is an invitation for caregivers and women in transition to reconnect with who they are — gently, intentionally, and with compassion.

In this episode of A Time to Care: The Caregivers Podcast, Isabel Melgarejo sits down with Medicare expert Kandice Hall to unpack one of the most confusing topics caregivers and families face: Medicare.

Kandice shares her personal journey into healthcare education and explains why Medicare is not “free,” how costly penalties can happen without proper guidance, and why timing matters when enrolling. Together, they clarify common misconceptions, upcoming changes, and the importance of having a trusted agent who educates rather than sells.

This conversation is a compassionate, practical guide for caregivers, families, and anyone approaching Medi...

In this heartfelt episode of A Time to Care: The Caregivers Podcast, host Isabel Melgarejo speaks with caregiver advocate and author Paul Wynn about the emotional and practical realities of caring for multiple loved ones while raising a family. Paul shares his personal story of supporting both his mother and uncle through Alzheimer’s, the challenges of being a working caregiver in the sandwich generation, and the essential role of connection, support networks, and flexible workplaces. Together, they explore how caregivers can bring families together, use small moments for self-care, and find community—even when they feel alon...

“Design isn’t just about beauty — it’s about dignity.”

This week, Janet Elizabeth Roche shares how inclusive and trauma-informed design helps people feel seen, heard, and welcomed.

If you care for someone, or you need a space that supports your own emotional well-being, this episode will inspire you.

If you have questions about any of this, make sure to listen to the episode all the way through.

Estate planning doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. In this episode of A Time to Care: The Caregivers Podcast, Isabel sits down with estate planning attorney Arma Fitzgerald to break down wills, trusts, probate, and how planning ahead can bring peace and clarity to families. This gentle, practical conversation will help you understand what steps truly matter — so you can protect your loved ones and yourself.

If you have questions about any of this, make sure to listen to the episode all the way through.

Welcome to A Time to Care: The Caregivers Podcast! In this episode, Isabel Melgarejo sits down with financial advisor Mark Kashar to talk about the importance of insurance, long-term care planning, and how to protect your loved ones with smart financial decisions. Learn why early planning matters, what insurance companies look for, and how to avoid common — and costly — mistakes caregivers face. Perfect for anyone wanting clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.

In this episode, Isabel Melgarejo talks with Dr. Laura Paredes, a geriatrician, about one of the biggest challenges caregivers face — burnout. Together, they explore why it happens, how it affects both caregivers and their loved ones, and what can be done to prevent it. Dr. Paredes shares real-life stories from her patients, practical tips for self-care, and the importance of recognizing our own limits.

A heartfelt and eye-opening conversation for anyone who gives care with love but sometimes forgets to care for themselves.

In this short update, host Isabel Melgarejo shares exciting news with the A Time to Care community! As the podcast celebrates over 100 episodes, Isabel talks about what’s ahead — including new projects, resources, and ways to support caregivers. She also announces a small change: new episodes will now be released every other week to make space for upcoming initiatives designed to help you thrive in your caregiving journey.

✨ Stay connected and don’t miss what’s coming next — subscribe to the newsletter and get your free guide to having difficult conversations by registering in our page.

In this inspiring episode of A Time to Care: The Caregivers Podcast, Isabel Melgarejo talks with Hailey How, co-founder of CareCorgi, an AI-driven caregiving platform designed to make family caregiving simpler and more connected. Hailey shares her deeply personal caregiving story that inspired her to create a tool to support the 53 million caregivers across the U.S.

Together, they explore the emotional realities of caregiving—from family communication challenges to the need for personalized care plans that honor culture and family dynamics. Hailey also offers a glimpse into how technology and empathy can wo...

In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode of A Time to Care: The Caregivers Podcast, Isabel Melgarejo talks with filmmaker, actress, and elder care advocate Susie Singer Carter. What begins as a warm, humorous conversation about Susie’s caregiving journey with her mother evolves into a powerful discussion about ageism, dementia, and the broken long-term care system.

Susie shares how her personal experience inspired her short film My Mom and the Girl and her documentary No Country for Old People, exposing the deep issues in elder care while championing dignity, love, and laughter through th...

In this insightful episode of A Time to Care: The Caregivers Podcast, host Isabel Melgarejo welcomes her friend and special guest, Lynn Lambrecht, founder of The Living Planner. Drawing from her experience in aviation emergency response and years of helping families prepare for life’s unexpected moments, Lynn shares why planning ahead is an act of love — not fear. Together, they explore how to make practical, thoughtful choices about important documents, caregiving, and end-of-life wishes, and why honest conversations today can ease tomorrow’s burdens.

The Living Planner Social Media Accounts

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In this episode of A Time to Care: The Caregivers Podcast, Isabel Melgarejo sits down with financial advisor Ryan Botzong to explore the often-overlooked side of financial planning: managing risks, protecting loved ones, and making tough conversations easier. From life insurance and long-term care to aligning your plan with what truly matters, Ryan shares practical advice and personal insights on how to approach these challenging topics with care, clarity, and compassion. This episode is perfect for anyone looking to create a plan that protects both their family and their peace of mind.

In this episode of A Time to Care: The Caregivers Podcast, Isabel welcomes Dr. Clay Lowder, family physician and founder of the Winners Travel Foundation. Together they explore the realities of caregiver syndrome, the importance of rest, and how travel can renew body, mind, and spirit. Dr. Louder shares his journey from medicine to creating life-changing retreats and free travel opportunities for caregivers, reminding us all that renewal is possible and community makes the journey lighter.

In this episode of A Time to Care: The Caregivers Podcast, Isabel Melgarejo welcomes Claudia Cometta, a pharmacist who transformed her own family’s health crisis into a mission of hope and advocacy. Claudia shares how her father’s illness opened her eyes to the struggles patients face and inspired her to guide others with compassion, clarity, and courage. Together, they explore how to reclaim your voice in healthcare, set meaningful goals for well-being, and embrace a new paradigm where patients and families are empowered to shape their own health journey.

Why do we fear death—and how can we see its beauty? In this heartfelt episode, host Isabel Melgarejo speaks with death doula Martha Jo Atkins about end-of-life care, breaking taboos, and finding peace in life’s hardest goodbyes.

In this episode, Isabel shares how a simple shift in mindset—choosing love, care, joy, and abundance—can transform everyday life. From self-talk to daily habits, she shows how to replace guilt with gentleness and discover the abundance already around us. A gentle reminder that you deserve more kindness, more joy, and more peace—starting with yourself.

In this episode of Time to Care Like Caregivers, Isabel Melgarejo sits down with psychologist, author, and podcast host Dr. Mara Karpel to explore the hidden impact of ageism in healthcare and caregiving. From her personal journey advocating for her mother to her upcoming book on navigating an ageist system, Dr. Karpel shares insights, tools, and hope for caregivers who often feel unheard. A powerful conversation about dignity, advocacy, and finding passion at any age

In this episode of A Time to Care: The Caregivers Podcast, Isabel Melgarejo reminds us that life is more than work and responsibilities. She explores the power of hobbies and joyful activities, why we often postpone them, and how even small steps—like researching or trying something new—can bring energy and fulfillment into our daily lives.

In this episode, Isabel invites listeners to pause, reflect, and imagine their future as caregivers—or as care receivers. Drawing from her experience leading her first Planning Lab for Caregivers and Retirees, she shares how planning for care can be just as meaningful and intentional as planning a trip, a new home, or retirement dreams.

Through a guided journaling and reflection exercise, Isabel encourages listeners to:

 In today’s episode, we take you behind the scenes at Tum Coeur to share an exciting glimpse of what’s coming next. From new podcast series and live workshops to community events and creative collaborations, we’re building meaningful spaces to grow, connect, and care—together.

Whether you’ve been with us from the beginning or you’ve just joined our community, this is the perfect time to tune in and learn about the vision that inspires everything we do. We talk about our goals for the months ahead, the new resources we’re working on for...

 In today’s episode, we speak with Eve Buck, an expert in generational trauma—the emotional and psychological wounds that are passed down from one generation to the next.

Eve helps us understand that trauma isn’t always caused by a single event. Sometimes, it’s inherited. We may carry the weight of experiences we didn’t personally live through, but that were passed to us through learned behaviors, emotional responses, and even family silence. These patterns often show up in our lives as chronic stress, anxiety, over-vigilance, or feelings of fear or...