Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver
Natalie Elliott Handy and JJ Elliott Hill
The Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver podcast offers a candid, unfiltered space to confess the good, the bad, and the ugly of being a caregiver through storytelling, guest interviews, and information sharing. JJ & Natalie are a dynamic duo of sisters supporting their mom living with Parkinson's and a husband who survived cancer. Along with their guests, they discuss their shared experiences in caregiving. Viewers and listeners alike will relate to our reluctance, be affirmed in their ability to be caregivers and gain the courage to confidently step out of the shadows to express their own needs. You are sure to laugh, cry, and everything in between but in the end, all will leave feeling better for the journey and part of the sisterhood of care. So grab your favorite guilty pleasure, and let's get to confessing!
All episodes
Best episodes
Seasons
Top 10 Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver episode by adding your comments to the episode page.
A Love to Remember: A Young Woman's Journey Caring for Her Partner Through ALS
Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver
06/18/24 • 46 min
Ready for even MORE honest caregiver conversations? Become a supporter of "Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver" and unlock bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes peeks, and resources you won't find anywhere else! Plus, your support makes this podcast possible! Sign up at https://www.buzzsprout.com/2101429/subscribe
**********************************************************************************************
This week, Heidi McCann shares her story and her experience caring for her partner Curtis after he was diagnosed with ALS at 25. Heidi shares how she and Curtis met as teenagers in Vermont and maintained their relationship through college before Curtis began exhibiting symptoms of ALS. When he was diagnosed, Heidi left her job to care for Curtis full-time. She moved with him to his small hometown to be closer to his support system and cared for him over the next year as his condition deteriorated. Heidi and Curtis married 22 days before his passing to declare their commitment to one another.
After Curtis' death, Heidi found new love and purpose, going on to write a book about her caregiving journey of living with and preparing for the death of her partner from ALS. She married again and became a mother of four children. Heidi also now cares for her own mother, who has Parkinson's disease. Throughout the episode, Heidi emphasized the importance of self-care for caregivers and making future plans for support systems. She shares lessons learned from her extensive personal experience of caring for a terminally ill partner through the challenges of ALS.
About Heidi:
Born in Hartford, CT, Heidi Erdmann Vance McCann graduated from the Loomis Chaffee School, where she discovered the power of words. Observing humanity from a young age, her high school years shaped her voice and leadership skills. At Middlebury College, she refined her writing and athletic prowess. After working in development and coaching tennis, she cared for her boyfriend with ALS, ultimately founding a nonprofit in his honor after his passing at age 26.
Over time, Heidi remarried and earned a MALS degree with a concentration in creative writing from Dartmouth College. She returned to the development field at Loomis Chaffee, where she currently works and enjoys tutoring. Living in Simsbury, CT, with her husband, Paul, and their four children - Martha, Ava, Caroline, and James - along with their dogs, Bruin and Bauer, Heidi treasures family time. Setting aside an hour daily for physical activity, she often finds inspiration for future books during this time.
Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver
Sisterhood of Care, LLC
Beyond Duty: Embracing the Chaos and Compassion of Caregiving
Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver
05/28/24 • 47 min
Ready for even MORE honest caregiver conversations? Become a supporter of "Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver" and unlock bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes peeks, and resources you won't find anywhere else! Plus, your support makes this podcast possible! Sign up at https://www.buzzsprout.com/2101429/subscribe
**********************************************************************************************Elizabeth Miller has extensive experience as a family caregiver. She cared for her aging parents with chronic illnesses as they desired to age in place, which required much travel and coordination between siblings. She also cares for her older brother Tom, who has developmental and intellectual disabilities. Elizabeth shares moving her family members to different living situations as her parents' health declined. She continues caring for her brother, Tom, along with her siblings.
Elizabeth started the Happy Healthy Caregiver podcast and resources to share her knowledge and lessons learned from her caregiving journey. Through being open about her experiences, she has helped many other caregivers. Her podcast and newsletter provide practical self-care tips that empower caregivers. She emphasizes the importance of addressing all aspects of well-being, including physical, emotional, intellectual, spiritual, social, and professional fulfillment.
Elizabeth's caregiving experiences have transformed her career path. Where she previously worked in corporate settings, she now focuses full-time on supporting family caregivers through her business. She encourages letting go of expectations and having faith that things will work out, as she has survived difficult life challenges and transitions through caregiving.
About Elizabeth:
Elizabeth Miller is a family caregiver, caregiver advocate, speaker, author, podcast host, Certified Caregiving Consultant, and Certified Senior Advisor. Her personal experiences caring for aging parents with chronic and terminal illnesses and for a sibling with developmental disabilities inspired her to create Happy Healthy Caregiver, LLC, in 2015. She is an empty nester living in Marietta, GA with her husband and two dogs.
Connect with Elizabeth:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happyhealthycaregiver/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happyhealthycaregiver
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethbmiller/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/HHCaregiver
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/HHCaregiver/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happyhealthycaregiver
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAcYkpMK6I3Y0ep-kyvrZaQ
Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver
Sisterhood of Care, LLC
Parkinson's Warrior: Turning Pain into Purpose Through Advocacy
Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver
04/30/24 • 53 min
Ready for even MORE honest caregiver conversations? Become a supporter of "Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver" and unlock bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes peeks, and resources you won't find anywhere else! Plus, your support makes this podcast possible! Sign up at https://www.buzzsprout.com/2101429/subscribe
**********************************************************************************************
George Ackerman shares his personal caregiving journey caring for his mother, Sharon, who battled Parkinson's disease for 15 years. As a New York native turned Florida resident, George came from a background of success as a lawyer and police officer. However, when his mother's Parkinson's progressed and she needed more support, George stepped up to become her primary caregiver.
He faced many challenges in caring for his mother, from managing her hallucinations and dementia to struggling to find trustworthy in-home caregivers. Throughout it all, George found purpose in advocating for others affected by Parkinson's through the foundation he started called Together for Sharon. Even after losing his mother, George continues fighting to support those diagnosed with Parkinson's, their caregivers, and others who have lost loved ones to the disease. He shares his story openly to raise awareness of the challenges of male caregivers and hopes to be a voice for those who feel unseen in their caregiving journeys.
About George:
Dr. George Ackerman (Sharon’s son) is from Brooklyn, N.Y. Now residing in Florida, he works in the fields of law, police, and education. George lost his mother, Sharon Riff Ackerman on 1/1/2020 due to Parkinson’s Disease.
George wanted to honor his mother and continue to help in the Parkinson’s awareness cause, but he did not know how to bring about change. We started TogetherForSharon® as a family to keep my mother, Sharon Riff Ackerman, ’s memory alive and share the message of Parkinson’s Awareness and hope for a cure.
Today https://www.togetherforsharon.com/ reaches thousands of individuals across the country for PD Awareness. George currently interviews individuals throughout the Parkinson’s community including various foundations, caregivers, and Parkinson’s warriors to help share their stories and causes.
Connect with George:
Websitehttps://www.togetherforsharon.com/
Email[email protected]
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-ackerman-ph-d-esq-mba-00871a82/
TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@togetherforsharon1
Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/togetherforsharon112020
Tw
Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver
Sisterhood of Care, LLC
Bridging Gaps in Care: Ali Ahmadi's Caregiver Revolution
Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver
04/23/24 • 48 min
Ready for even MORE honest caregiver conversations? Become a supporter of "Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver" and unlock bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes peeks, and resources you won't find anywhere else! Plus, your support makes this podcast possible! Sign up at https://www.buzzsprout.com/2101429/subscribe
**********************************************************************************************
Ali Ahmadi's caregiving journey began unexpectedly when his mother-in-law was diagnosed with stage four lymphoma cancer over seven years ago. As a former Navy aviator and aerospace engineer, Ali prided himself on navigating difficult situations. However, nothing could have prepared him for the challenges of caring for his ill mother-in-law while balancing work and family responsibilities. Ali and his wife decided to bring her into their home without hesitation. Still, they soon found themselves overwhelmed trying to manage her complex medical needs and navigate the healthcare system alone.
At his wit's end, Ali was introduced to the TCARE protocol. Developed by researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, TCARE helped Ali and his family better understand the emotional toll of caregiving through clinical assessments. To Ali's surprise, the recommended care plan focused on marriage counseling rather than just medical support. This unexpected recommendation opened Ali's eyes to how caregiving impacted every aspect of his life. Through TCARE, Ali also discovered local resources he didn't know existed, like free family counseling. Inspired by the difference TCARE made, Ali developed the program into the caregiver support platform it is today.
Now, Ali dedicates his career to helping other caregivers avoid burnout through TCARE's individualized support plans and focus on preventing emotional hardships. Driven by his caregiving experiences and commitment to family, Ali continues working tirelessly to validate caregivers' challenges and connect them with the resources needed to care for their loved ones without sacrificing their well-being.
About Ali:
Ali Ahmadi is a veteran of three venture-backed tech startups, having raised over $100 million in funding. A former U.S. Naval Aviator, he holds an M.S. and B.S. in Aerospace Engineering from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and an Executive MBA from Washington University in St. Louis. Ahmadi has vast experience in the Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) industry and has developed strategic partnerships with Fortune 100 companies, including Microsoft, RGA, PwC, SAP, Salesforce, McKinsey, and Aflac.
Currently, he serves as the CEO and Co-Founder of TCARE, a company that provides a CMS-approved platform aimed at reducing family caregiver burnout and delaying nursing home placement through predictive analytics. TCARE has formed significant partnerships with companies such as Aflac, BlueCross BlueShield, Microsoft, Unum, Anthem, Cigna, and UnitedHealthcare.
Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver
Sisterhood of Care, LLC
Courageous Motherhood: A Caregiver's Journey through Disability and Hope
Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver
03/05/24 • 53 min
Jessica Patay shares her journey as a caregiver for her son, Ryan, who was diagnosed with Prader-Willi Syndrome at five weeks. Prader-Willi Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that requires 24/7 supervision and care due to its associated symptoms, including low muscle tone, delayed milestones, and an insatiable food drive. Jessica talks about the difficulties she faced with her newborn, Ryan, who was unable to cry or suck and needed a feeding tube and occupational therapy. Managing Ryan's anxiety about eating is an ongoing challenge that requires constant monitoring of the kitchen.
Jessica discusses the impact of her son Ryan's condition on her family and the importance of maintaining a healthy balance. She prioritizes spending one-on-one time with her other children and taking trips without Ryan. Jessica also emphasizes the importance of having a supportive community and resources for caregivers. She has created an organization called "We Are Brave Together" to provide a platform for caregivers of disabled children to connect and find support.
Jessica plans to set up a care plan for her son Ryan before she and her husband become incapacitated or pass away. She also emphasizes the need to take breaks as a caregiver and empower their children to survive without them.
About Jessica:
Jessica Patay is the founder and executive director of We Are Brave Together (WABT), a 501(c)(3)nonprofit organization that supports caregiving moms with children of all types of disabilities and neuro-diverse diagnoses. In addition, she is a sought-after speaker, podcast guest, writer retreat coordinator, fundraiser, mother of three, social influencer, and a champion of self-care practices and their positive effect on motherhood. Jessica excels at creating and supporting communities of caregiving moms, and she is a visionary for the disability community worldwide.
Jessica’s mission is to combat the isolation and burnout that these moms and their families face by creating supportive, resourceful, and empowering communities and meaningful connections. Her vision is that every family in the disability community is strengthened, equipped, and inspired for their unique journey. This vision has fueled WABT’s growth in 6 years into an international community of over 2200 moms, representing all 50 states and 24 countries. Jessica has helped launch dozens of support groups throughout the U.S., New Zealand, and Australia. To extend her outreach, Jessica hosts a podcast, “Brave Together with Jessica Patay,” which offers a library of inspirational stories and resources for the disability community.
Connect with Jessica:
Web https://www.wearebravetogether.org/
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/wearebravetogether/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wearebravetogether/
Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver
Sisterhood of Care, LLC
Unexpected! Finding True Love in Caregiving
Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver
12/17/24 • 52 min
Charisma Sydnor's path crossed with Cole's at a rehab center following his teenage spinal cord injury; their professional rapport blossomed into romance and they wed in 2020. Taking over from his mother, Charisma adapted to the comprehensive caregiver role, focusing on fostering independence for Cole while ensuring their connection thrives beyond her caregiving responsibilities. They openly celebrate their life together on social networks, challenging preconceptions about disability and relationships. Their shared narrative delves into the seamless transition from dating to matrimony, weaving in the complexities and dedication involved in caregiving. Charisma speaks to establishing a healthy balance of duties and intimacy, highlighting continuous dialogue, self-care, and an optimistic perspective as cornerstones of their unique partnership. She emphasizes that a disability is not a hindrance, but rather a unique aspect of a vibrant and fulfilling life.
About Charisma:
Charisma Sydnor, 29, has lived most of her life as a native of Richmond, Virginia. Before becoming an entrepreneur, she pursued her master’s in Occupational Therapy at Shenandoah University.
The success of her and her husband’s business led her down a new and exciting path where she was able to use her platform for a broader purpose.
Together they started their vlog to bring people into their lives, their relationship, to answer some questions about how they navigate the world with some of the behind-the-scenes stuff people typically don't see, and hopefully raise awareness surrounding accessibility and dating in a wheelchair.
Outside of their channel, Charisma uses her Instagram to share what it is like being a caregiver to her husband, as well as tips and tricks to maintain a healthy mind, body, and soul while caring for someone.
Connect with Charisma
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happilycharisma/?hl=en
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charisma-sydnor-96632411b/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCA5Zfb-OOm7eDHHa8iu9izQ
Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver
Sisterhood of Care, LLC
Caregiving 2023: Reflections and Resolutions
Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver
12/26/23 • 55 min
In our final episode of 2023, we're taking a moment to reflect on what we've learned about caregiving and ourselves throughout the year. We'll also share some amazing insights from our incredible guests. Join us as we dive into the world of caregiving and discover how to strike a balance between self-care and nurturing relationships.
Caring for someone can be challenging, but it's important to find harmony between our personal obligations and the needs of those we care for. It's all about understanding, being patient, and showing deep respect for the person in our care.
We also explore the dynamics of sibling relationships in the caregiving journey. Sometimes, sharing responsibilities can strain our bond with our siblings. But we can foster understanding and maintain a strong connection through open dialogue and mutual respect. Remember, despite our differences, we can find common ground and preserve harmony by cherishing our shared love for the person we’re caring for.
In this episode, you will be able to:
- Overcoming caregiving challenges and gaining valuable lessons.
- Balancing caregiving roles while nurturing important relationships.
- Understanding the impact on sibling relationships during caregiving.
- Prioritizing self-care for enhanced well-being as a caregiver.
- Embracing lessons learned and finding resolutions as a caregiver.
📖 Link to the article mentioned in the show: When Medicare thinks you're dead... but you're not. (confessionsofareluctantcaregiver.com)
🥰 Big thanks to our sponsor, Tena, for supporting this episode! Try Tena yourself here: https://buy.tena.us/link/1702396455795b19bcf4d/aebb325b-ab56-384c-3f88-f940d48f8663?
Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver
Sisterhood of Care, LLC
A Dramatic Reset with Amy Bushatz
Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver
11/14/23 • 54 min
Amy Buschatz's caregiver journey began when her husband, Luke, faced a life-altering traumatic brain injury (TBI) and PTSD during his Army Airborne Ranger deployment in 2009. In 2016, Amy and Luke knew something had to change. They made a radical reset and moved the family to Alaska (sight unseen) to support Luke on his healing journey. Little did she realize healing would come for the entire family.
Amy candidly shares the complexities of their relationship, the challenges they encountered, and how they coped together. We explore the ups and downs of Amy's caregiving experience, including moments of betrayal and the process of rebuilding trust. Amy also discusses how she used physical activities and therapy to navigate the emotional landscape while balancing her caregiving responsibilities with her own need for personal healing.
Amy talks about her experience as “two caregivers,” one caring for her spouse and raising two children and another supporting an independent spouse. Amy confessed it all - touching on mental health care, setting boundaries, and available resources for disabled U.S. military veterans and their spouses.
In this episode, you will be able to:
- Enhance your caregiving experience by understanding the challenges and dynamics involved.
- Prioritize your own well-being with self-care techniques that will support your role as a caregiver.
- Discover the resources and tools available to make your caregiving journey more manageable and effective.
- Learn how to balance caregiving responsibilities and other aspects of your life.
- Develop self-awareness and effective communication skills to navigate the complexities of caregiving relationships.
About Amy:
Amy is a reporter for the Anchorage Daily News and the founder of the Mat-Su Sentinel, a non-profit startup newsroom in Alaska. She is the host and producer of the Humans Outside podcast, sharing what she loves - being outside and running.
But what in the world took her to Alaska - Caregiving. Her husband Luke sustained a TBI/PTSD during his 2009 deployment as an Army Airborne Ranger, though it would take years to understand its impact on Luke and their family.
So - in 2016, Amy, Luke, and their two sons - Huck and David - moved to Alaska sight unseen to help Luke find healing, Amy says in the process, they found healing for everyone.
Connect with Amy:
Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver
Sisterhood of Care, LLC
Caregiving: It's in our DNA featuring the Schiessle Sisters
Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver
09/12/23 • 54 min
In a world where caregiving often consumes every aspect of one's life, three sisters, Jen, Jamie, and Jesse, found themselves on an extraordinary journey. Their collective responsibility? Caring for their differently-abled brother, Matt. As they navigated the complex dance of love and duty, something unexpected happened that would forever change their lives. This is a story of resilience, sacrifice, and the beautiful spirit of sisterhood. Find out the turn of events that would challenge everything they thought they knew about balancing caregiving responsibilities with their desires.
In this episode, you will be able to:
- Witness the power of inclusiveness drawing from the caregiving experiences of the Schiessle sisters.
- Gain unique insights on the impacts that taking care of a sibling with disabilities can have on one's life.
- Discover strategies for efficiently balancing personal life ambitions with caregiving responsibilities.
- Understand the perspectives and intricacies involved in planning for the future care of a sibling with disabilities.
- Immerse yourself in depicting the profound bond among the Schiessle sisters, fortified through shared caregiving responsibilities.
About the Schiessle Sisters:
The Schiessle sisters are originally from Northwest Indiana and currently reside across the US. Jen (the oldest) lives in Los Angeles, Jessie (the middle) lives in Palm Beach Gardens, and Jamie (the youngest) lives in Chicago. Growing up, we were all super active & played sports, including basketball, volleyball & softball. As adults, life took us in different directions geographically, but we are all avid travelers and try to see each other as much as possible. You can catch us at a trendy new restaurant, a Broadway show, or the nearest Hanson concert :)
Jen: Jen works as a sales rep in women’s fashion in LA; she’s worked in the wholesale side of fashion for the past 10 years and has a degree in Fashion Design. She enjoys reading, playing volleyball, and traveling in her free time.
Jessie: Jessie works for a private family as an Executive Assistant, starting her career in the industry as a nanny. She has traveled the world, experiencing different cultures and creating friendships in multiple countries. In her free time, she enjoys being very ACTIVE, playing volleyball, pickleball, and golf, going to the beach, going out with friends, and trying new things!
Jamie: Jamie works for United Airlines in their Customer Strategy & Innovation group. She started her career as a CPA and has held various roles within the airline industry. In her free time, she enjoys traveling to see the Cubs play at MLB stadiums, trying new restaurants, and the occasional karaoke bar.
Connect:
Instagram:
Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver
Sisterhood of Care, LLC
The Ugly Part of Caregiving with Cassie Abel
Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver
05/09/23 • 57 min
Healthcare professional Cassie Abel brings over twenty years of experience to our discussion on caregiving's emotional challenges and the guilt that sometimes accompanies them. Cassie's caregiving journey with her mother, Carol, diagnosed with ALS in 2020, has shaped her outlook on caregiving. Carol inspired Cassie's love for healthcare, and when her health began to decline, Cassie stepped in to provide care, gaining firsthand experience with the challenges that many caregivers face. Cassie's insights make her a valuable resource for all.
Cassie vividly remembers her mother, a “bulletproof” woman who devoted her life to the nursing home industry. Cassie followed in her mother's footsteps and became a nursing home administrator. However, life suddenly turned when her mother was diagnosed with ALS. The emotional challenges and guilt began to weigh heavily on Cassie's heart as she balanced her career, family, and caregiving responsibilities. As her mother's health declined, Cassie experienced the heart-wrenching reality of watching the woman who had once been her pillar of strength gradually fade away. Cassie found solace in her blog, where she shared her mother's story, drawing strength from her mother's unwavering determination to live life to the fullest.
In this episode, you will learn to:
- Navigate the emotional landscape and manage guilt associated with caregiving.
- Recognize the crucial factors to consider when choosing dependable caregivers for your family members.
- Master the art of juggling work, personal life, and caregiving tasks in harmony.
- Understand the importance of self-care and mental health to ensure personal well-being during the caregiving journey.
- Acquire knowledge and wisdom from past caregiving experiences to enhance your own approach.
About Cassie:
Cassie Abel resides in Vincennes, Indiana, with her husband, Scott, and their two children, Emma and Archer. With over 20 years of experience in healthcare leadership, Cassie primarily worked in the nursing home setting, starting as an Admissions Coordinator, moving to Executive Director, and then taking on a new challenge in the hospital setting. Cassie now serves as the Director of Patient Experience at the local hospital. In her role, Cassie works with providers and caregivers to achieve excellence in service delivery and leads the Patient Liaison department in addressing patient and family concerns. Cassie is an active member of her local Rotary, whose motto is “Service Above Self” – a passion she carries over into her personal and professional life. Cassie holds a bachelor’s degree in Public Relations and a license as a Healthcare Facility Administrator. Currently, Cassie is working towards her MBA and writing her first book based on her experience as a caregiver.
Connect with Cassie:
Twitter: @CassieAbel2
Instagram: @CASSIENABEL2
Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver
Sisterhood of Care, LLC
Show more best episodes
Show more best episodes
FAQ
How many episodes does Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver have?
Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver currently has 192 episodes available.
What topics does Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver cover?
The podcast is about Health & Fitness, Society & Culture, Cancer, Mental Health, Humor, Podcasts, Caregiver, Caregiving, Relationships and Selfcare.
What is the most popular episode on Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver?
The episode title 'A Love to Remember: A Young Woman's Journey Caring for Her Partner Through ALS' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver?
The average episode length on Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver is 40 minutes.
How often are episodes of Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver released?
Episodes of Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver are typically released every 5 days.
When was the first episode of Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver?
The first episode of Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver was released on Dec 27, 2022.
Show more FAQ
Show more FAQ