Shows
The Caregiver Cup PodcastPersonal Update: The Pause ButtonSend Cathy a text:)Cathy shares a personal update about her absence from the podcast as she takes time to heal and find stillness after eight years of non-stop caregiving, including Denis's recent stem cell transplant recovery. She explains her decision to pause – not quit – the podcast to reconnect with her body, rediscover joy, and learn what it means to simply be rather than constantly do.• Operating at high speed for almost eight years through caregiving, loss, podcasting, and creating• Realized she had forgotten what stillness felt like and couldn't sit still or pause• Ga...2025-08-1204 minThe Caregiver Cup PodcastWhen Hope Feels Lost: How to Reclaim Your Strength as a CaregiverSend Cathy a text:)Have you ever found yourself in the chaos of caregiving thinking, "I can't do this anymore"? That feeling of wanting to give up is universal among caregivers, especially during prolonged challenges and setbacks.When I hit emotional walls during Denis' stem cell transplant journey, I discovered a powerful truth: our feelings, while real, aren't always factual. We might feel like everything is falling apart, but distinguishing between emotional reactions and objective reality can be our anchor in stormy times. I've developed a simple practice called "the what, the why, and the c...2025-06-1015 minThe Caregiver Cup PodcastNavigating Fear and Uncertainty: How to Embrace Your Emotions as a CaregiverSend Cathy a text:)Fear, worry, and uncertainty often feel like unwelcome yet permanent companions on the caregiving journey. After receiving a heartfelt message from a listener worried about her husband's upcoming bone marrow transplant, I knew this topic needed addressing – not just for her, but for all of us navigating these turbulent emotional waters.These powerful emotions aren't signs of weakness or failure. They're natural human responses that actually demonstrate how deeply you care for your loved one. The fear of medical unknowns, the worry about what recovery might look like, and the overwhelming se...2025-06-0350 minThe Caregiver Cup PodcastLifting Their Spirits Without Losing Yourself: Caregiver Motivation and Emotional Support/ PART 1Send Cathy a text:)Emotional support isn't just something we provide as caregivers—it's often the most exhausting yet invisible part of our role. When our loved ones are in pain, frustrated, or losing hope, we become their cheerleaders, their comforters, and their gentle push to keep going, sometimes when we barely have enough emotional energy for ourselves.This episode explores what emotional support truly looks like in caregiving relationships and how to provide it in ways that are sustainable for both you and your loved one. Drawing from my current experience supporting my husband De...2025-05-1346 minThe Caregiver Cup PodcastFinding Your Routine in This Caregiver SeasonSend Cathy a text:)Caregiving seasons constantly shift, and finding your rhythm during these transitions can make all the difference between barely surviving and maintaining your wellbeing. This episode explores how creating meaningful routines becomes your anchor when everything else feels unpredictable.Cathy opens up about her current reality as her husband Denis undergoes a stem cell transplant, sharing how she's had to completely reimagine her daily schedule. From juggling hospital visits to maintaining her own health, she walks through the practical challenges of adapting to a new caregiving landscape. Her vulnerability about feeling emotionally...2025-05-0629 minThe Caregiver Cup PodcastWhen Stress Takes Over: A Caregiver's ConfessionSend Cathy a text:)Have you ever felt your body physically react to stress before your mind could even process what was happening? That moment when your skin flushes hot, your heart races, and your shoulders tighten into knots—all while your thoughts spin "like a blender on high"?When an unexpected hospital notification arrived detailing fifteen pre-transplant appointments for my husband Denis across multiple locations—followed by a massive binder of medical instructions—my body's stress response kicked into overdrive. Despite years of teaching stress management techniques, I found myself overwhelmed by the physical and em...2025-04-0127 minThe Caregiver Cup PodcastCaregiver Strong: Cathy’s Personal Updates & Advocacy InsightsSend Cathy a text:)In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain and sharing some personal updates on Denis’ treatment journey—including the challenges, frustrations, and lessons learned along the way. From navigating the maze of health insurance approvals to advocating for timely care, I’m diving into the reality of what it takes to ensure our loved ones get the treatment they need. If you’ve ever felt stuck in red tape or frustrated by delays, this episode is for you. Tune in for real talk, advocacy insights, and a reminder that persistence is our greatest t...2025-02-1819 minThe Caregiver Cup PodcastWhere We Belong: A Personal Pause and Finding What Matters MostSend Cathy a text:)In this deeply personal episode of The Caregiver Cup Podcast, I share a heartfelt announcement about pausing the podcast and my services to focus on what matters most—caring for my beloved spouse, Denis, as he battles aggressive cancer. Inspired by Hoda Kotb’s Where We Belong, I reflect on the challenges and emotional journey of caregiving, the importance of self-care, and setting healthy boundaries. Join me as I open up about the tough decisions and soul searching that led to this pause, and offer a message of hope and encouragement to fellow care...2025-01-2820 minThe Caregiver Cup PodcastOvercoming Waiting Room Fatigue: Self-Care and Coping Strategies for CaregiversSend Cathy a text:)Waiting room fatigue is a struggle many caregivers face but rarely discuss. Imagine sitting in a hospital waiting room for hours, filled with anxiety and anticipation, as your loved one undergoes medical procedures. This episode unpacks how these long waits can lead to emotional and physical exhaustion for caregivers, like me, waiting for Denis during his needle biopsy and chemotherapy port installation. We dive into the emotional tension and lack of control that exacerbate this fatigue and explore how recognizing these feelings is crucial for maintaining our well-being.Discover practical strategies...2024-11-0536 minThe Caregiver Cup PodcastFrom Pajamas to Purpose: A Caregiver's Unfiltered ChatSend Cathy a text:)Well, hello my friend and welcome to the Caregiver Cup podcast! In this special episode, I'm taking a break from our usual structured format to have a cozy coffee chat with you. Picture this: it's Monday morning, and I'm still in my leopard print pajamas, sipping on my favorite black coffee.Last week was a rollercoaster of emotions and stress for me, from the relief of my husband Denis's positive scan results to the pain of a root canal and outpatient surgery. Add in Mother's Day and my spouse's birthday, and...2024-05-2141 minThe Caregiver Cup PodcastComfort Unveiled: A Journey through the Caregiver's Learning ZoneSend Cathy a text:)When my husband Denis faced his stem cell transplant, I found myself in a debilitating zone of fear. This podcast peels back the curtain on the raw, transformative journey of caregiving, and I open up about the emotional quest from fear to empowerment. If you've ever found yourself floundering in the depths of the fear zone or cautiously stepping into the growth zone, join me as we uncover the resilience and lessons hidden in these experiences.Through the lens of my story and our community's shared narratives, we navigate the intricate d...2024-01-3033 minThe Caregiver Cup PodcastRetraining the Mind: Overcoming Negativity As A CaregiverSend Cathy a text:)Do you ever feel like your mind is overflowing with negative thoughts as a caregiver? Well, mine certainly was this past week. I was buried under the weight of concerns about my appearance, and with Denis’ oncology visit, my anxiety was through the roof. I was stuck in a cycle of negative thoughts, so I began to question their utility. Are they really helping us or just adding to our emotional burden?Through this journey of navigating negativity, I stumbled upon the intriguing concept of Reticular Activating System (RAS), our brain's ve...2023-07-1854 minThe Caregiver Cup PodcastThe Stem Cell Transplant Is Scheduled, Now What?Send Cathy a text:)The Stem Cell Transplant Is Scheduled, Now What? Or better yet, what all needs to be done? Before, Denis and I got home from the transplant doctor, the dates were booked but there were still so many unanswered questions. Where will we going to stay?Would the insurance cover everything?Who would take care of our home, dogs and my mom? In this episode, I want to share the preparation experience. Some things went smoothly, others were learning experiences and also the things we didn’t think about and forgot...2023-03-1449 min
Conversations with Kathy's HouseEpisode 6: Denis and Cathy VandenHeuvel, from De Pere, Wisconsin, and recent guests of Kathy’s HouseDenis and Cathy VandenHeuvel, from De Pere, Wisconsin, and recent guests of Kathy’s House, sat down to share their thoughts about their time there. They spend 6 weeks at Kathy’s House in 2022 while Denis underwent treatment for a rare cancer. Cathy, who has a podcast of her own, The Caregiver Cup, talks about how Kathy’s House supports caregivers in so many special ways.2023-01-1633 minThe Caregiver Cup PodcastFinding Shifts That Bring You Joy And FunSend Cathy a text:)We as caregiver don’t get that many good days, let alone good weeks. I want to talk more about this bowling thing I joined. Why in the world would I bowl when I know nothing about this game and I was deep into caregiver, right? My best friend, Julie asked me during the summer if I would consider doing something fun with her one day a week during the winter months. My thoughts and guilt said no. How could I when my Mom’s lung cancer came back, Denis was...2022-12-0632 minThe Caregiver Cup PodcastDo You Have A Back Up Plan, My Caregiver Friend?Send Cathy a text:)It was time for the final consultation for my spouse;s stem cell/ bone marrow transplant. It was in personin Milwaukee requiring us to travel 2 hours for it. We had it on our calendar for months. It was the final step prior to Denis getting the cure he needed. About 2 days prior I wasn’t feeling the greatest and I thought it was the nerves. But the fatigue got worse and then came the fever. I was so frustrated since I was a hand sanitizer, mask wearing, clorox wipe kinda girl. I avoided crowds an...2022-09-1320 minThe Caregiver Cup PodcastBeing The Best Caregiver When Away From Home - Speaking With Patty From Kathy's HouseSend Cathy a text:)In today's episode you'll hear from Patty Metropulos from Kathy’s House. You all have been listening to my journey for the last few weeks and months regarding Denis' stem cell transplant journey and where we stayed. Kathy's House taught me so much about controlling what I can control, as well as taking care of myself. If you're looking for housing in the near future for you and your loved one for an extended length of time, you'll get info on finding a place to stay nationally. Even if you're...2022-03-1548 minThe Caregiver Cup PodcastWhat Your Personality Traits & Behaviors Can Tell You As A CaregiverSend Cathy a text:)I want to share the true aha moment that came to me this week. I've been beating myself up lately. When I say beating myself up, I mean those internal thoughts asking myself why. Why am I not being productive? I have all this time and all I want to do is sit around, sleep and do nothing. Why don’t I have the energy and drive? Why I am shutting down? These feelings were becoming so heavy that it was affecting my mental health. I tried to fight the demons in my head by...2022-02-1530 minThe Caregiver Cup PodcastFour Questions To Ask When Your Caregiving Journey is DifficultSend Cathy a text:)I want to talk about “new normal” that we as caregivers move into either suddenly or over time. This set of words have been used more in the last couple years than ever before. Think about the overall world in general. People that worked in offices and buildings are now working at home. Children experienced virtual learned. Caregivers and family members in some cases weren’t allowed to visit their loved ones in the hospital or nursing home. Isolation became the new normal when we tested positive. Grocery pick up and online shopping rose to the hi...2022-02-0827 minThe Caregiver Cup PodcastNavigating Changes to Your Caregiver RoleSend Cathy a text:)It’s strange to plan out the next 6 weeks of your life. It’s figuring out everything. Denis won’t be able to come home and if I do, it will be for a short day or so (if that’s even possible). I sure wish it was planning a trip for 6 weeks vs thisThe unknown and uncertainty can bring up a whole lot of things. Emotions, anxiety, stress, and more. But it also can be a reminder that we don’t have control over what happens. To be honest, I hat...2022-01-0623 minThe Caregiver Cup PodcastEmbrace This Year With A New PerspectiveSend Cathy a text:)In the last episode, I shared my opinion of a new years resolution. Although I think setting goals and committing to something is super healthy for you, it may be hard to commit to a resolution right now as a caregiver. That’s why I love the idea of choosing a word or words of the year. Are you ready to hear mine? Can you guess what mine might me? Remember the steps in picking your word from the last episode (reflect, visualize, create a list, review, rev...2022-01-0227 minThe Caregiver Cup PodcastSimplify Your CaregivingSend Cathy a text:)Do you remember the easy button? It acknowledging the frustrations and challenges of small business. It's also a statement about Staple's responsibility to make things easier for their customers.What if you could push an easy button when you were frustrated or facing challenges? Everyone wants to make their life easier - simpler. Caregivers too. Trying to avoid extra unnecessary work, complex advocacy tasks, and reducing errands, to name a few. Our time is valuable and our physical and mental wellbeing are priceless. Think of all the things...2021-12-1625 minThe Caregiver Cup PodcastDealing With Caregiver Stress During The HolidaysSend Cathy a text:)How are you doing with your stress during the holiday season?For some caregivers, the holidays can be a joyful time when spirits are lighter. It’s actually a nice distraction. It feels good to care for loved ones and enjoy time together, celebrating with family traditions. You might even have visitors or get out a bit and enjoy family and friends. But for many of us the holidays also bring added stress — there’s even more to do during the holidays. You may be evening saying - Someth...2021-12-0721 minThe Caregiver Cup PodcastHow to deal with the "sit and wait" syndrome.Send Cathy a text:)How hard is it to sit and wait. I have done it so many times and you would think it would get easier and I should have this action mastered. But each time is different. Each time is unique and feels different. Do you agree?I’m going to call this the “sit and wait syndrome”. It’s when you have to wait on test results, wait on further symptoms. Wait on healing. Wait to see if the meds will work. Waiting is hard. One of the biggest mis...2021-10-2825 minThe Caregiver Cup PodcastThe two ways you become a caregiverSend Cathy a text:)There are two ways you become a caregiver: 1. Caregiving often creeps up on you. It may start with dropping by your mom’s house and doing her laundry or taking your dad to a doctor’s appointment. You find yourself doing the grocery shopping or refilling prescriptions. Gradually, you are doing more and more. At some point, you realize you have a commitment to take care of someone else2. The Sudden EventSometimes caregiving is triggered by a major health event, such as a stroke, heart attac...2021-02-0230 minThe Caregiver Cup Podcast3 Ways To Reduce WorrySend Cathy a text:)Today I want to talk about Wilma. Who is she? She is that talk in your head that keeps you up at night. She talks and raises your stress level. She keeps distracting you. She drives you crazy sometimes. I know you and I have Wilma in our head on occasion. She is the worrier. This past week, I let Wilma the Worrier take control of me. My husband, Denis wasn’t feeling well and had two occasions where he was nauseous, had stomach pain and fatigue. If you haven...2020-12-2216 minThe Caregiver Cup PodcastIt's My Birthday BONUS!Send Cathy a text:)Hey There, It’s Cathy with a fun bonus episode of THE CAREGIVER WIFE PODCAST. It’s my birthday. What better way to celebrate my birthday than with you, my listener. My birthday parties of the past…..I remember those pizza parties and slumber parties. Everyone would come with their fun sleeping bags, pjs and little suitcase. We would stay up all night sharing stories, putting on makeup, dancing to music and playing true or dare. And, we would call boys on the telephone. My parents would be just as exhausted...2020-11-2115 minThe Caregiver Cup PodcastHow Gratitude Can Get You Through ChallengesSend Cathy a text:)Just 4 weeks after starting my caregiving journey, I stood at the starting line to run my half marathon. I struggled, cried, and just about quit until I got to mile 10. Listen to this episode to see how to use gratitude to get through your challenges. At the 10th mile I experienced frustration, anger, sadness and resignation. I had to figure out how to pull myself to that “good space”?Quote for Jennifer Gayle:"When you look at life through the eyes of gratitude, the world becomes a magical an...2020-11-0318 minThe Caregiver Cup PodcastMy Interview With My SpouseSend Cathy a text:)Meet my best friend, high school sweetheart and spouse of 39 years. Denis Vandenheuvel is the most optimistic and positive person I know. In today’s episode, Denis will share his health journey and talk through his struggles and ways he shifted his mindset. I hope you can glean information from the eyes of my spouse going through his health struggles in the last three years. See more pictures and stories on my website at http://www.cathylynnvan.com/aboutSupport...2020-10-2730 min
Discover the Best Audio Stories in Biography & Memoir, Law & PoliticsBefore the Storm: Barry Goldwater and the Unmaking of the American Consensus by Rick PerlsteinPlease visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/308186 to listen full audiobooks. Title: Before the Storm: Barry Goldwater and the Unmaking of the American Consensus Author: Rick Perlstein Narrator: Kiff VandenHeuvel Format: Unabridged Audiobook Length: 28 hours 11 minutes Release date: October 10, 2017 Ratings: Ratings of Book: 3.33 of Total 3 Ratings of Narrator: 4 of Total 1 Genres: Law & Politics Publisher's Summary: Acclaimed historian Rick Perlstein chronicles the rise of the conservative movement in the liberal 1960s. At the heart of the story is Barry Goldwater, the renegade Republican from Arizona who loathed federal government, despised liberals, and mocked 'peaceful coexistence' with the USSR. Perlstein's narrative shines...2017-10-1003 min