Shows
A Season of Caring PodcastCaring with Connection and Compassion: Stories of Hope with Amanda BaileySend us Fan MailIn this heartfelt episode of A Season of Caring Podcast, host Rayna Neises is joined by Amanda Bailey, who bravely shares her journey as a secondary caregiver for her mother with Alzheimer's. This episode delves into the rapid progression of the disease and the challenges Amanda encountered while supporting her father, the primary caregiver. The conversation underscores the critical role of asking for help and the necessity of building robust support systems for caregivers.The discussion also touches on the benefits of reminiscent therapy, offering profound connections and comfort to those...
2024-07-1825 minA Season of Caring PodcastBest of 2023: Delivering Comfort and Purpose: Stories of Hope with Tonja MoonSend us Fan MailJoin Rayna Neises as she learns about the mission of The Grand Baby Project with Tonja Moon, founder. In this touching episode, Tonja unravels her personal narrative of caring for her dementia-stricken grandmother, revealing the unexpected calming power of lifelike baby dolls and they offer joy and a sense of purpose to those battling with memory loss. As we traverse Tonja's journey, we uncover the triumphs, the struggles, and the surprising response of men with dementia to this therapy.But that's not all. As we delve deeper, the conversation sheds light...
2023-12-1424 minA Season of Caring PodcastEncore Episode #1 Advocacy as CaregiversSend us Fan MailEncore Episode #1, Rayna Neises, your host, talks with Carlos Olivas III. Carlos was a guest last year on the podcast and immediately comes to mind when thinking about advocacy. In fact, in December of 2022 Carlos was honored as being a Congressional Advocate of the Year in California. Since 2016, he has been the primary caregiver for his father living with Alzheimer’s. During this caregiving season, Carols has been able to connect, encourage, and empathize with caregivers from around the world. The journey has inspired him to advocate for elder health policy and the practic...
2022-12-2922 minA Season of Caring PodcastCaregiver Toolbox: Becoming a ‘Detective’ for Your Loved OneSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, reflects on her interview last week with Angie Rischpater (Episode 143). Angie is a physical therapist and she shared how, as a caregiver, you can be an observer or a detective to help your loved one. Instead of swooping in and taking, you can just support. Rayna continues with the topic offering the following suggestions:[1:32] Deal with the problem and not the symptom by digging down and finding the root of the problem.[3:29] Steps to becoming a good observer:[3:45] Understand the difference between observing and looking[4:15] Be mindful of...
2022-11-1714 minA Season of Caring PodcastCaregiver Toolbox: Identity and Self-compassionSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, reflects on caregiver identity and self-compassion from her interview last week with Charlotte Bayala (Episode 141). Rayna continues with those topics offering the following information:[1:40] Putting on a caregiver identity can take some time.[3:00] The caregiving season can surprise many people with how it impacts your identity.[4:00] Caregiver is just another hat.[5:00] Extending grace to yourself is something to work on.[6:00] Ways to offer grace:[6:57] Thinking about how you evaluate your mistakes or actions can help you have a picture of how to be a little kinder to yourself.[9:14] Focusin...
2022-11-0316 minA Season of Caring PodcastKnowing When and How to Step InSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, reflects on her interview last week with Carolyn Birrell (Episode 139). Carolyn is the author of Walking with Fay: A Mother’s Unchartered Path into Dementia. While describing her caregiving journey, she talked about how difficult it was to navigate knowing when and how to step in to offer support for her mother. Since most everyone will deal with this issue, Rayna continues with the topic offering the following suggestions:[1:10] There are eight areas to consider when determining whether or not parents need more support:[2:00] Family Relationships[4:13] Home Safety[6:03] Medical...
2022-10-2020 minA Season of Caring PodcastLeaning Into Love and Respite for Compassion FatigueSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, reflects on her interview last week with Dr. Ed Smink (Episode 137). Dr. Ed shared his personal experience with burnout and how important it is to be aware of compassion fatigue. Rayna continues the conversation with tips on how leaning into love and respite can help overcome this condition for family caregivers:[1:06] Compassion fatigue is described as a condition characterized by emotional and physical exhaustion, leading to a diminished ability to empathize or feel compassion for others.[6:27] What would happen if you wrapped him in a hug and told him...
2022-10-0616 minA Season of Caring PodcastMore Caregiver Tools: Routines and FaithSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, reflects on her interview last week with Deb Kelsey-Davis (Episode 125). Deb shared how technology impacted her caregiving season and helped her with self-care. Rayna continues the conversation with tips on how creating routines can be a helpful tool for caregivers. In addition, she explores how faith can impact caregiving: [1:00] The key to self-care is that it is not a one-time event but instead an ongoing routine or habit.[2:25] When we make time for things we love and schedule in fun, we have a happier life overall. [4:13] Think about th...
2022-09-2219 minA Season of Caring PodcastBenefits of Pity Parties and Understanding the Dying ProcessSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, reflects on her interview last week with Betsy Wurzel Sloan who was a caregiver for her husband who had Early Onset Alzheimer’s. Betsy shared her experiences with her caregiving journey and explained that she gave herself permission to have Pity Parties. She also talked about the dying process. Rayna shares more on both important subjects: [1:30] Pity Parties are helpful and provide the opportunity to vent your feelings.[2:18] Self-Pity can lead to Self-Compassion.[3:40] There are many euphemisms for death and dying.[6:34] When you hear some of the key phrases...
2022-09-0818 minA Season of Caring PodcastCaregiver Tips: Self-Care is not an Option and ‘Pity Parties’ are Okay!Send us Fan MailThis week, Rayna Neises, your host, speaks with Betsy Wurzel Sloan. Betsy is a retired nurse and teacher’s aide who now has her own talk show. She is the caregiver for her special needs adult son, and she has helped her mother-in-law, father, and husband as they experienced Alzheimer’s. Through the journey with her husband, Betsy feels that she found her gifts, power, and voice. She now works to raise awareness of Early Onset Alzheimer’s with her mission to help no one walk the journey alone during caregiving or after. Betsy p...
2022-09-0127 minA Season of Caring PodcastLearning with the Caregiver WarriorSend us Fan MailThis week, Rayna Neises, your host, speaks with Susanne White. Susanne was able to care for her parents and venture out on a caregiving journey that would change her life. She is now a blogger and author of the book, ‘Self Care for Caregivers’ which will be released in early September. Susanne shares her experience, strength, and hope with others so that they can survive caregiving with grace and empowerment. She provides the following insights: (5:07) When caregiving, if you are trying to control or manipulate, your loved one will know that.(7:11) Being more self-a...
2022-08-1823 minA Season of Caring PodcastAdditional Help with End-of-Life PreparationsSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, reflects on her interview from last week with Pastor Rick Craig (Episode 129) and the discussion related to end-of-life preparations. In his book, When It’s Time: End-of-Life Planning at Any Age: Make it Part of Your Legacy. Rayna shares more information on dealing with these tough issues related to end-of-life preparations:[2:09] Know the difference between palliative care vs. hospice and that things have changed over the past 20 years.[3:30] Understanding that palliative care might be an option for your loved one can be helpful. [4:00] Make sure wills are finalized, and that...
2022-08-1116 minA Season of Caring PodcastWhat They Really NeedSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, reflects on her interviews from the past few weeks with women who are Cancer Thrivers. Following these conversations, she began to think about and investigate what those in a season of needing care might want caregivers to know. Rayna shares the following ideas of support for those being cared for:[1:14] Educate yourself[4:27] Help preserve dignity and privacy[6:21] Treat them as a valuable person[7:12] Honor their choices[9:31] Offer help in specific ways. Avoid saying, “Let me know if you need anything.”[12:29] Just be with them and spend time with t...
2022-07-2818 minA Season of Caring PodcastCaregiving Tool: GratitudeSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, reflects on her interview from last week with Heather Carter (Episode 125). Heather is a cancer survivor and she shared tips from her season of being cared for. She reminded us that our mindset and attitude have a significant impact on those we are caring for. Rayna shares additional information on this aspect of caregiving and how gratitude can help:[6:23] True gratitude is to focus on what you have in the moment.[8:00] Make gratitude a part of your daily or weekly routine.[10:19] Just saying Thank You can be helpful.[10:53...
2022-07-1422 minA Season of Caring PodcastStaying Active and Engaged No Matter Your AgeSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, reflects on her conversation from last week with Marie Vaudry (Episode 123). Marie is the founder of Gleam in Your Eye, an activity subscription box created for those with dementia. Rayna shares additional information on ways to stay active and engaged no matter your age:[2:24] Brain games can help your brain stay healthier and younger longer. [4:33] Brain function includes memory, problem-solving, and critical thinking.[5:20] Stimulate your brain in different ways by using your imagination.[6:14] Stimulate different areas of your brain by using your senses or your non-dominant hand.[7:05] Reading is...
2022-06-3016 minA Season of Caring PodcastExperienced Caregiver Tips for Navigating Moods and Behavior ChangesSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, is joined today by co-host, Carlos Olivas III. Carlos is the primary caregiver for his father who is journeying with Alzheimer’s. Together Rayna and Carlos discuss challenges with changes in behavior and mood as the disease progresses. They share additional information to assist caregivers to handle situations: [3:22] It does not matter if your loved one knows your name. They know that you are someone significant in their life. [7:31] Time away helps tremendously to then come back, be present, and have an attitude of compassion.[8:42] We want to do it wi...
2022-06-1629 minA Season of Caring PodcastTips and Techniques for Successful MealsSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, reflects on the topic of meals and feeding your aging loved one from last week’s interview (119) with Toni Fisk. Rayna shares some tips and tricks from her caregiving season with her father around mealtime planning and execution: [4:00] A Meal Card System can help you shop for what is needed. It can also include everything for the meal and how to prepare it. (i.e., what condiments to add to the hot dog) [6:00] Please take advantage of the free download available. [7:00] Recording what and how much was eaten allows fo...
2022-06-0217 minA Season of Caring PodcastHelp Shifting Out of Autopilot While CaregivingSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, reflects on the topic of being a conscious caregiver from Tears in My Gumbo and last week’s interview (117) with Nadine Roberts Cornish. Rayna explores more with the five steps that can help caregivers to move away from being on autopilot:[0:39] Five Steps to Conscious Caregiving:Step 1: HelplessnessStep 2: RecognitionStep 3: ProcessStep 4: AcceptanceStep 5: Surrender[2:00] When processing through these steps, they can be cyclical.[11:00] Caregiving is a complex process and it is important to find advocates who are working with you on behalf of your loved one.[11:14] Helplessness is typical and wi...
2022-05-1914 minA Season of Caring PodcastCaregiverhood: Things to Think About and CelebrateSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, reflects on the topic of celebrating the season of caring for a senior adult from last week’s interview (115) with Jenn Chan. Rayna continues with that theme and looks at how this can help caregivers.[1:47] There is so much involved in making the milestone decision to become a family caregiver.[3:00] Four areas to think about:[3:20] Do this season the way that works best for you and your family . . . Give yourself permission to find what works for you.[5:41] Self-care . . . Be kind to your future self.[7:43] Grief . . . The feeling...
2022-05-0516 minA Season of Caring PodcastReading Can Benefit Your CaregivingSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, reflects on the topic of learning from others from last week’s interview (113) with Jean Lee. Jean is an author and co-founder of AlzAuthors.com whose mission is to provide resources to light the way for those on the Alzheimer’s/dementia journey. They spotlight authors who share their personal journeys so that others can benefit. This week, Rayna continues with that theme and looks at reading and how it can help caregivers. [0:43] Books allow those who have been before us to communicate their experiences, and we can glean...
2022-04-2116 minA Season of Caring PodcastThings to Know About Support GroupsSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, discusses support groups, what might be keeping you from being a part, what to expect and various kinds of groups. [1:48] What could be holding you back from joining a support group:[2:10] Feeling that you will be put on the spot and must share your story[3:00] Feeling uncertain regarding what you would share about your loved one and concerned that others will be critical[4:00] Thought that you would feel depressed or sad hearing other’s stories[5:19] Not knowing what to expect[6:00] When choosing a support group, it is important to...
2022-04-0718 minA Season of Caring PodcastCommunication Assistance and Building a Care TeamSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, reflects on the topics covered during last week’s interview (109) with Erin Galyean. Rayna shares some additional thoughts based on Erin’s role as the VP of Communications during her caring season with her sister, Megan. In addition, Rayna provides support ideas for communication tools and building a caregiving team. It is important to have someone who can be the communication connection between your loved one and all those who care about them and the family.Resources to help families and care teams with communication and coordinating care:Carel...
2022-03-2416 minA Season of Caring PodcastFamily Caregivers, You are Not Alone!Send us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, reflects on the topics covered during last week’s interview (107) with Nancy Poland. Rayna shares some additional learnings from Nancy’s second book, Remarkable Caregiving, where she interviewed six family caregivers and told their stories. In addition, Rayna provides supporting data that family caregivers are not alone. Caregivers can get their strength from and learn from the person for whom they are caring.When you are only focused on the things to do, you miss the relationship.If you do not have or do not know your “Why”, it is tim...
2022-03-1018 minA Season of Caring PodcastRelationships Require BoundariesSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, reflects on the topics shared during last week’s interview with Debra Hallisey. She revisits the concepts around relationships that Debra shared from her book, The Caregiver’s Relationship Contract. In addition, Rayna explores how to set boundaries and navigate renegotiating them. Be sure to download the free resource Rayna provides related to these topics.All relationships require boundaries.Understanding your emotions can help you see if your boundaries are as strong as they should be.Healthy boundaries ask others to respect your uniqueness, your choices, and your auto...
2022-02-2419 minA Season of Caring PodcastAdvocating as Caregivers- with Carlos and RaynaSend us Fan MailThis week, Rayna Neises, your host, talks with Carlos Olivas III. Carlos was a guest last year on the podcast and immediately comes to mind when thinking about advocacy. He is the primary caregiver for his father living with Alzheimer’s since 2016. During this caregiving season, Carols has been able to connect, encourage, and empathize with caregivers from around the world. The journey has inspired him to advocate for elder health policy and the practice of self-care for caregivers. In addition, he is archiving and documenting his father’s progression through art. He is hopeful...
2022-02-1022 minA Season of Caring PodcastAlzheimer's: Just Some of the BasicsSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, expands on the concepts Lauren Dykovitz shared regarding her journey in caring for her mother with Early Onset Alzheimer’s. In addition, Rayna shares information on the basics of Alzheimer’s Disease and things you can do:Alzheimer’s is a brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills and a specific type of dementia.Memory loss may not always be the first symptom.Alzheimer’s affects thinking and problem-solving.Visual perception issues are related to the damage happening within the brain and are a part of Alzheimer...
2022-01-2719 minA Season of Caring PodcastHow to Build Resilience in Your Caring SeasonSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, reflects on her conversation from last week with Susan Stern. Susan shared several hands-on tips regarding resilience and its importance during the caregiving journey. Resilience is the capability to recover quickly from difficulties and Rayna provides the following suggestions for building resiliency:Learn what your “WHY” is for your caregiving journey.Be sure not to do things because of guilt.Understand and set your boundaries and be willing to review them and change or offer alternative options.Are you feeling walked on or taken advantage of? Evaluate what is hap...
2022-01-1321 minA Season of Caring PodcastThree Emotions of CaregivingSend us Fan MailThis week, Rayna Neises, your host, talks about a few of the emotions that are a part of this season of life. There are 53 million unpaid family caregivers in the United States it is easy to feel alone and overwhelmed with emotions while you are caring for a loved one and it is totally normal. Rayna explores three emotions and their impact:Worry is a normal reaction to caring for someone else who can’t do it for themselves, but it becomes a problem when it leads to fretting and anxiety.Try for...
2021-11-2517 minA Season of Caring PodcastAdvocating, Honoring, and Respecting During Your Caring SeasonSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, reflects on the thoughts shared during last week’s interview with Tracy Crump. She expands on the concepts Tracy shared regarding advocacy and the important role it is for family caregivers. In addition, Rayna shares thoughts on the importance of honor and respect during your caring season.Happy National Family Caregiver Month! Please visit www.aseasonofcaring.com and download your gifts, “Five R’s of Regret-Free Caregiving” and “Things To Do and Not To Do During Thanksgiving.”Advocate for your needs too. Check-in and ask questions.Always speak with respect an...
2021-11-1817 minA Season of Caring PodcastFamily Roles in the Caregiving JourneySend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, reflects on the thoughts shared during last week’s interview with Leslie McLeod. She expands on the concepts Leslie shared regarding relationships within families and how they affect the caregiving journey. Rayna sites several works to provide perspective on the various roles: If you find yourself as the “hero”, feeling like you are the only one doing anything, let go and invite other family members to be a part of the season. Watch for the “people pleaser” who is always willing to help but may not be taking care of themse...
2021-11-0419 minA Season of Caring PodcastBuilding Your Team in Your Caregiving SeasonSend us Fan MailHappy National Self-Care Awareness Month! Rayna Neises, ACC, host, reflects on the thoughts shared during last week’s interview with Jammie Johnson, The Caregivers Friend. This week Rayna expands on the suggestion Jammie provided regarding building your tribe or team:To add to the care team, remember to just ask. Check with:extended familycompanion care companieschurch familypersonal care professionalsvolunteerssenior centersday staysWhat tasks are you not enjoying and how can you get those off your plate?When asking for help, keep in mind the type of caregiver and what their services are. Ask questi...
2021-09-0922 minA Season of Caring PodcastMore Tips for Hospital StaysSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, reflects on the thoughts shared during last week’s interview with Beth Suereth regarding caregiving during hospital stays. Although you might not be there right now, the odds are that a hospital stay will be part of your caregiving journey with your loved one. This week Rayna expands on the suggestions Beth provided:Find out what the hospital’s regulations are related to COVID.Know these three terms and be able to communicate with health care professionals the information related to them:Baseline ADL (Activities of Daily Life) HAD (Hos...
2021-08-2618 minA Season of Caring PodcastNormalizing Self-Care: What Brings You Joy?Send us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, reflects on thoughts shared during last week’s interview with Nicole Dauz. Nicole has a great attitude about self-care and a good understanding of the necessity of it. She provided tips on how to normalize self-care and this week Rayna expands on those and adds more ways to embrace and think about self-care.Think about what brings you joy!Self-care is about meeting your own needs, so you must stop and ask daily, “What do I need?” and then find a way to act.Think about who you need on...
2021-08-1219 minA Season of Caring PodcastBeing Prepared for End-of-LifeSend us Fan MailThis week, Rayna Neises, your host, talks with Maureen Kures. Maureen has been a registered nurse for over 35 years and helps families as an End-of-Life Coach. Her passion is to assist them through facilitating decision-making, documentation, and discussions of end-of-life transitions. She draws from her vast experience from the bedside point of view, home care nurse, and family caregiver for her father. She has a big heart for caregivers and shares the following: Having the conversations ahead of time can help you avoid making decisions leading from pure emotion.End-of-life conversations should happ...
2021-06-2425 minA Season of Caring PodcastTeams and Self-Care- Important Caregiving ToolsSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, and Karen Weaver, PCC, co-host, reflect on last week’s interview with Jane Daly. Jane shared her caregiving journey and how she learned grace during that time. Additional thoughts:Learning to be a family caregiver can be a journey of spiritual growth if you allow it.Embrace the fact that you need help sooner rather than later.Look at the structure of your care team and if there is no one under you, then you are doing things that do not require you to do them.Take the time...
2021-06-1722 minA Season of Caring PodcastLearning Grace in the Caregiving SeasonSend us Fan MailThis week, Rayna Neises, your host, talks with Jane Daly. Jane is an award-winning author with two published books and two more in progress. She serves on multiple boards and regularly teaches writing at workshops and conferences. When she is not teaching, speaking, or practicing writing, she can be found in the financial district, where she is the Branch Officer at a bank. Jane cared for her parents and shares the following insights from her season:We often slip into the caregiving role without realizing it.Take a step back and remember th...
2021-06-1023 minA Season of Caring PodcastNo Regrets Part 2Send us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, and Karen Weaver, PCC, co-host, continue discussing the remainder of Rayna’s book which was released on June 1st. Stop frequently to ask questions that help you to reflect and then make decisions intentionally. If something is not working, pivot and do something different.Always keep looking until you find the thing that does work for you.Self-care is really about the little habits that add up.Being part of a community allows you to hear more options and to try other suggestions.Create a personal manifesto to help...
2021-06-0322 minA Season of Caring PodcastNo Regrets Part 1Send us Fan MailNo Regrets: Hope for Your Caregiving Season – Part 1Rayna Neises, ACC, host, and Karen Weaver, PCC, co-host, take some time to discuss Rayna’s book available June 1, 2021 at all major retailers. When considering types of care, explore all your options. Think, “What else could this look like?”You must be willing to ask people for support.It is important to find medical professionals who will listen and try to understand the struggle.You want to be their advocate, their voice, and to fight for them, but you also want to kn...
2021-05-2724 minA Season of Caring PodcastRayna's Caregiving JourneySend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, and Karen Weaver, PCC, co-host, take some time to reflect on Rayna’s caregiving journey with both of her parents who had Alzheimer’s. She also shares details on her book.When memory is a concern, it is natural to think of the worst possible outcome.Alzheimer’s impacts people differently and is not just memory problems. Mom struggled with: Visual processing that affected depth perceptionLosing verbal skillsHallucinating When caregiving, help to do what is needed vs. trying to be their parent.The difficult step of taking the keys away...
2021-05-2029 minA Season of Caring PodcastCaregiving at Every Stage and AgeSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, and Karen Weaver, PCC, co-host, reflect on last week’s interview with Adrienne Glusman. Adrienne shared her experience as a young caregiver and how she now supports other Millennials in their caregiving season. Additional thoughts:Regardless of age, we usually do not think about being a caregiver.Sharing your story can be a support and help to other caregivers and help you find others like you.Caregiving is something that can become a part of your life at any stage.Those in the business world need to be awar...
2021-05-1320 minA Season of Caring PodcastMillennials: Growing Group Stepping Up to Care GiveSend us Fan MailThis week, Rayna Neises, your host, talks with Adrienne Glusman. Adrienne is a professional speaker, ambassador, and advocate on the topic of Millennial Caregiving. She provides support to others through sharing her firsthand experience caring for her mother, Hetty, who passed away in 2020 after a 10-year battle with Parkinson’s/Multiple Systems Atrophy. She shares the following insights:There can be social isolation for millennial caregivers as they do not have others their age to turn to for shared experiences. As a millennial, it can be difficult to balance caregiving with trying to mak...
2021-05-0622 minA Season of Caring PodcastFinances During the Caregiving SeasonSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, and Karen Weaver, PCC, co-host, reflect on last week’s interview with Victoria Lowell. Victoria shared information regarding finances and their impact during the caregiving season. Additional thoughts:When retiring early to care for a loved one, you need to consider lost wages. Also, the lost opportunity to contribute to social security and personal retirement plans.Finding a side hustle can help with income, but also can provide stress relief helping you feel like you are adding value and that you have something of your own.Understand the dif...
2021-04-2920 minA Season of Caring PodcastFinancial Tune-Up TimeSend us Fan MailThis week, Rayna Neises, your host, talks with Victoria Lowell. Victoria is a financial advisor, entrepreneur, podcaster, and motivational speaker. She is also the author of “Empower Your Worth: A Woman’s Guide to Increasing Self-worth and Net-worth.” Several years ago, she left Wall Street and followed her passion for helping women assert themselves financially. She shares the following insights:Long-Term Care (LTC) Insurance can help defray some of the costs associated with an illness that spans several years. Most younger people do not think about purchasing LTC Insurance, but it can be extreme...
2021-04-2226 minA Season of Caring PodcastDo Not Just Survive But ThriveSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, and Karen Weaver, PCC, co-host, reflect on last week’s interview with Elizabeth Miller. Elizabeth, The Happy Healthy Caregiver, has a heart for caregivers and supports them through her many passions. She shares with others what she learned during her caregiving journey with both her parents and her brother. Additional thoughts:Apply “happy and healthy” to both the person being cared for as well as the caregiver.Use pre-decisions wherever possible to have less stress around making decisions in the moment, and you will have less decision fatigue as a r...
2021-04-1518 minA Season of Caring PodcastIntegrating Self-Care: Mesh it All Together Like a Good SoupSend us Fan MailThis week, Rayna Neises, your host, talks with Elizabeth Miller. Elizabeth is a busy wife, mom, full-time employee, caregiver, and consultant. She helps other family caregivers through her consulting service, podcast, book, and support group. She is the author of ‘Just for You: A Daily Self-Care Journal’. She shares how to integrate self-care and other insights:Integration - figuring out how to mesh it all together like a good soup.You can be a great caregiver and you can also take care of yourself. It is not an either-or situation.Self-care for caregiver...
2021-04-0820 minA Season of Caring PodcastNo Empty Cups!Send us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, and Karen Weaver, PCC, co-host, revisit last week’s interview with Stacy Johnston. Stacy is full of energy and has lots going on in her busy life including caring for her mother and step-father. Rayna and Karen discuss how to ensure a busy life doesn't lead to an empty cup. Additional thoughts discussed:Remember to balance caregiver needs WITH the wants/needs of the one being cared for. Be aware not to pour out beyond what you have and leave yourself with an empty cup. How can you fill yo...
2021-04-0120 minA Season of Caring PodcastTurn on Your LightSend us Fan MailThis week, Rayna Neises, your host, talks with Stacey Johnston. Stacey has a varied background owning and operating a dance studio for 30 years and spending 11 years serving as a family services specialist. She is now a coach, consultant, speaker, trainer, and podcaster. Stacey is a caregiver for her mother and stepfather. She shares the following insights from her caregiving experience and her current passion for encouraging others:Caregiving is a balancing act between what we want and what our loved one wants/needs. Ask questions to help shift your loved one’s mindset...
2021-03-2522 minA Season of Caring PodcastCaregiver SupportSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, and Karen Weaver, PCC, co-host, discuss ways to support family caregivers as they revisit last week’s interview with Drew Brenner. While Drew cared for his mother, he was unable to find the resources he was seeking. As a result, he set out on a mission to create an organization to provide to other family caregivers what he felt was missing. Additional thoughts discussed:Focus is often on the person being cared for with the caregiver’s needs unseen. Taking the time to ask questions can help determine what ca...
2021-03-1818 minA Season of Caring PodcastSupport and Resources for the CaregiverSend us Fan MailThis week, Rayna Neises, your host, talks with Drew Brenner. Drew is the founder of the Kansas Caregiver Network, an organization that links caregivers with the support and resources they need. His ideas for this group grew from his personal caregiving experience with his mother. Unfortunately, between the time of this recording in late 2020 and today, she passed away. This episode is in memory of Drew’s, mom, Barbara Brenner. As a family caregiver, you are not alone in this battle and sometimes you just need a voice, an ear to listen, a pat on...
2021-03-1119 minA Season of Caring PodcastReflection - A Task for The CaregiverSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, and Karen Weaver, PCC, co-host, revisit last week’s interview with Aaron Blight who shared his insights from his personal family caregiving experience as well as his professional expertise in helping other caregivers and caregiver organizations. Additional thoughts discussed:Although you cannot always prepare for the caregiving season, you can choose how you respond. Do you put your head in the sand and keep doing what you are doing, or do you find the experts, ask the questions, get the information you need?It is important to identify as a...
2021-03-0419 minA Season of Caring PodcastYou Do Not Have to Go Through This Alone!Send us Fan MailThis week, Rayna Neises, your host, talks with Dr. Aaron Blight. Dr. Blight is the author of “When Caregiving Calls: Guidance as You Care for a Parent, Spouse, or Aging Relative.” He is also the founder of a consulting firm dedicated to those who care for the aging population. In addition to his professional knowledge and expertise, he draws from his firsthand experience as a family caregiver for his mother-in-law. The following insights are shared:A transition to family caregiver can happen suddenly due to an accident or unexpected diagnosis. However, it can also...
2021-02-2518 minA Season of Caring PodcastEstate Planning Reminders for CaregiversSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, and Karen Weaver, PCC, co-host, reflect on last week’s interview with Catherine Hodder, Esq. who shared her estate planning expertise. Additional insights discussed:By first completing your estate planning, you can frame the conversation by sharing your experience vs. just telling your parents what to do.It is important to know that the person selected to serve as Medical Power of Attorney understands what you want, what is important to you, and that you can trust them to follow through with your wishes.You have to keep re...
2021-02-1819 minA Season of Caring PodcastEstate Planning Is Not Just For When You DieSend us Fan MailThis week, Rayna Neises, your host, talks with Catherine Hodder Esq. Catherine is an attorney and author of the bestseller, “Estate Planning for the Sandwich Generation: How to Help Your Parents and Protect Your Kids”. She began her law practice in banking, but after helping care for her dad and seeing how estate planning helped her family, she switched her focus when she went back into practice. She now lives in California where she writes articles to help members of the “Sandwich Generation”. Catherine shares the following advice: Family members who do not reside...
2021-02-1119 minA Season of Caring PodcastReminders For The Caregiver From The CaregiverSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, and Karen Weaver, cohost, reflect on last week’s interview with Carlos Olivas III who shared his experience as the primary caregiver for his father. Additional insights discussed:Take a minute to check out the Caring Quiz to find out exactly what kind of caring style you have.During the caregiving season, you will need to let go of some things you thought were important to be able to embrace the season and allow it to bring about change and improvement.Having the tough conversations allows you to hav...
2021-02-0420 minA Season of Caring PodcastCaregiving - Opportunity to Change, Learn, and Honor FamilySend us Fan MailThis week, Rayna Neises, your host, talks with Carlos Olivas III. Carlos lived in Southern California where he was working a great job in live events doing production and design while raising his daughter. Life took a turn five years ago when he made the decision to move back to his childhood home to care for his father. As a result of his experience, he has developed a passion for research and educating himself about the Alzheimer’s experience. Carlos shares the following insights with everyone from his perspective as a primary caregiver: Th...
2021-01-2823 minA Season of Caring PodcastGrief and GrowingSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, and Karen Weaver, cohost, reflect on the interview with April McCollum. April shared her creative ideas for self-care and dealing with grief. One specific suggestion included the adult coloring book she authored. Additional insights discussed:Having a tangible item in front of you brings the opportunity to think about grief and can help you move through it.Taking time out to process your thoughts can help you identify when grief is at the center.Document your loved one’s story as you go to show interest in them, to he...
2021-01-2121 minA Season of Caring PodcastCreative Self-care TipsSend us Fan MailThis week, Rayna Neises, your host, interviews April McCallum. April focuses her passion for communication and creativity on writing, art, and advocacy projects. She has authored several inspirational coloring books for adults, one of which is titled “Reflections of Love: Coloring Book Therapy for Grief and Loss”. The following insights are shared:We need moments when we can be mindful, relax, rest, and be with our thoughts to reflect on our relationships and the giving and taking of love.Selfcare includes more than just taking a nap or a day off:Practice self-ad...
2021-01-1418 minA Season of Caring PodcastCelebrating the Old and Welcoming the NewSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, introduces her new cohost, Karen Weave, and they reflect on 2020 and what is to come for 2021.Welcome, Karen! She is currently in a caregiving season helping both her dad and her husband. Listen to Karen’s story in last week’s reposted interview which was the #1 downloaded installment in 2020 for the A Season of Caring Podcast.2020 helped us to evaluate what is important and to embrace what matters. “No Regrets: Hope for Your Caregiving Season” will be released in June and is available now for preorder. Stay tuned a...
2021-01-0720 minA Season of Caring PodcastEncore Episode Reaching Up for ComfortSend us Fan MailEncore Episode: #1 listened to podcast in 2020. Rayna Neises, A Season of Caring Podcast Host, interviews Karen Weaver, PCC coach, author, and caregiver. Karen will also become A Season of Caring Podcast Cohost in 2021. During their discussion, Karen shares about her 25+ years of being a caregiver:Faith is extremely important to her journey.Everyone has their own capacity. That is OK. Self-care is a must.Somethings that are important in Karen’s self-care routine.Things will never be the same- embrace your new normal.Let go of control-everything is not going to be perfec...
2020-12-2719 minA Season of Caring PodcastEncore Episode~ Caregiving: The Hardest Right ThingSend us Fan MailThe #2 Top Listened to Episode in 2020 is Caregiving: The Hardest Right ThingRayna Neises, your host, interviews Diane Clark. She has served in various positions with the church for over 20 years where she has honed her gifts of serving and administration. She especially loves her roles as wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, but counts serving as a caregiver as one of her greatest privileges. Diane feels that experiencing death with someone is as beautiful and miraculous as seeing the birth of a baby. She shared the following recalling her caregiving experiences with h...
2020-12-2426 minA Season of Caring PodcastEncore Episode Healed RelationshipSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, your host, interviews Kinsey Oglesby. Kinsey is a coach, speaker, blogger, and writer who seeks to help women heal after trauma. After a five-year journey with her mother, she adds an experienced caregiver to this impressive list of talents. And, although unexpectedly, her caregiving journey provided her the opportunity to heal from her own childhood trauma and develop a bonded relationship with her mother.Approach uncomfortable situations during personal care with dignity and respect. Once the bridge is crossed, it becomes much easier.Caregiving can build a kind of connection and...
2020-12-1723 minA Season of Caring PodcastEncore of Grief in the Caregiving SeasonSend us Fan MailEncore EpisodeRayna Neises, your host interviews Nancy Miller, Caregiver Survivor, and Grief Recovery Specialist. Grief is an everyday part of a caring season. Nancy and Rayna discuss: what was most surprising to her about grief in the process of caring for her parents. the intensity of the griefthe grief process was not a clean as the stages impliedthe grief is different while caring and after your loved one has passed awaywhat others need to keep in mind about grief during their caring seasonthe role grief plays in care...
2020-12-1027 minA Season of Caring PodcastCelebrating and Connecting During the HolidaysSend us Fan MailThis week, Rayna Neises, your host, interviews Eric Kolb. Eric, along with hiswife, Cheryl, cared for her mother. It was their love for singing and theirexperience with caregiving that prompted them to create ‘Songs and Smiles’, anonprofit organization dedicated to helping those with Alzheimer’s to connectwith their joy-filled memories, as well as with their family, friends, andcommunities. He provides the following insights on celebrating, connecting, andapplying this during the busy holiday season:Fight back with joy by celebrating during the jo...
2020-12-0326 minA Season of Caring PodcastThankfulness, Gratitude, and HopeSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, your host, provides a special message in celebration of National Family Caregiver Month and Thanksgiving. She also shares some exciting announcements for 2021. November is National Family Caregiving Month. Cheers to you all! This time of year, we are especially thankful for the opportunity to serve and to create memories with our loved ones. Although traditions change with time and circumstances, we can benefit from taking a moment to enjoy the blessing of the love and the food and the laughter that we have each year.Our brains are wired to affi...
2020-11-2614 minA Season of Caring PodcastBenefits of Day Stay ProgramsSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, and Aly Neises, RN, cohost, reflect on last week’s conversation with KC Schumacher. Choosing a day program adds trained members to the team and support for both the caregiver and the loved one. Additional insights shared on the benefits of these programs:Participants at a day program are with others who face similar situations allowing expectations to lower, so they do not need to know everyone and everything and can relax and enjoy themselves.Most day stays are very flexible (time of day/days of the week) and...
2020-11-1920 minA Season of Caring PodcastAdult Day ServicesSend us Fan MailThis week, Rayna Neises, your host, interviews KC Schumacher. Since before she graduated high school, KC has been working in the social services field. She is drawn to helping others and is passionate about caring for adults and supporting family caregivers through her current position at the adult day services at Catholic Charities. She provides the following insights on this important work and this option for caregivers and families:Adult day programs cost much less than other alternatives.Day services are an option for a loved one to do something during the day...
2020-11-1217 minA Season of Caring PodcastCaregivers and Moms Share Similar Struggles/SolutionsSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, and Aly Neises, RN, cohost, reflect on last week’s conversation with Amy Rienow. As the mom of seven, Amy’s experiences in raising her children and the things that she has learned in that role translate to those who are caregiving for a parent or loved one. Additional insights shared:Stepping back to look at the bigger picture can help gain perspective and see when things that seem like boulders are just pebbles. Adjust standards and find what works for you . . . When constantly driving to reach the ideal...
2020-11-0520 minA Season of Caring PodcastDitch Perfectionism and GuiltSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, your host, interviews Amy Rienow. Amy is a wife and mother of seven. She and her husband, Rob, founded and lead Visionary Family Ministries created to help others live for Christ. She is also a licensed clinical professional counselor. Amy and Rayna relate the experiences of moms and caregivers and provide the following insights: Perfectionism and making sure all the ducks are in a row is not going to be a source of peace.Choose the things that must be there, that are most important to you, and then go w...
2020-10-3023 minA Season of Caring PodcastDo Not Skip Respite!Send us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, and Aly Neises, RN, cohost, reflect on the conversation with Diane Clark who shared how grateful she was to have been able to care for her father and her father-in-law. When thinking back, she would not change much about her journey, but she knows she should have taken more respite time for herself and wants others to ensure that they do. Additional insights discussed are:A caregiver is only as good as the care that you give yourselfIt is a joy and privilege to be able to care...
2020-10-2220 minA Season of Caring PodcastCaregiving – The Hardest Right ThingSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, your host, interviews Diane Clark. She has served in various positions with the church for over 20 years where she has honed her gifts of serving and administration. She especially loves her roles as wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, but counts serving as a caregiver as one of her greatest privileges. She feels that experiencing death with someone is as beautiful and miraculous as seeing the birth of a baby. She shared the following recalling her caregiving experiences with her father and father-in-law: Support from friends and family is so important an...
2020-10-1526 minA Season of Caring PodcastKeys to Communicating and Avoiding Conflict while CaringSend us Fan MailLast week’s guest, Carolyn Miller Parr, shared from her book, Love’s Way, her experience related to families who did not have the tough conversations. Now, Rayna Neises, ACC, host, and Aly Neises, RN, cohost, continue discussing the invaluable information provided in Carolyn’s book and the importance of communicating, listening, and seeking a win-win during the season of caring. Seven tips to consider for having a good conversationYour parent has been making decisions for a long time . . . Just because you do not agree does not mean it is not the right de...
2020-10-0820 minA Season of Caring PodcastAvoid Disputes: Have the Tough ConversationsSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, your host, interviews Carolyn Miller Parr. Wife, mother, litigator, judge, family caregiver, and mediator are just a few of the many hats that Carolyn has worn in her 83 years. And, at the age of 74, she added author to that distinguished list. Her second book, Love’s Way: Living Peacefully With Your Family As Your Parents Age, is a valuable tool for seniors and their adult children. She shares the following insights with the hope that it helps families navigate the journey without disputes that end up in the courts or mediation:Mos...
2020-10-0122 minA Season of Caring PodcastThinking More About Advanced DirectivesSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, and Aly Neises, RN, cohost, further discuss the topic of Advanced Directives which was started last week during the conversation with Kira Reginaldo. Additional thoughts/learnings: Advanced Directive is the same as Living Will Document should not look the same for a 30-year old compared to a 95-year-old’sImportant to have an honest conversation with whoever you are considering as your Power of Attorney (POA) . . . Can they make the tough decisions? Can they execute your wishes? Can they advocate to your doctors? Can they communicate well with family membe...
2020-09-2420 minA Season of Caring PodcastAdvanced Directives – Everyone Needs One Now!Send us Fan MailRayna Neises, your host, interviews Kira Reginato. Kira is a geriatric care manager who has helped the elderly and their families in a variety of settings. Her vast experience coupled with her entrepreneurial nature has allowed her to develop an app for family caregivers and to author a book that she recently updated and rereleased, Tips for Helping Your Aging Parents: (without Losing Your Mind). She has so many tools to help caregivers, but focuses in this interview on tips regarding Healthcare/Medical Directives:An Advanced Directive is a healthcare document, a f...
2020-09-1725 minA Season of Caring PodcastThinking About the End of the JourneySend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, and Aly Neises, RN, cohost, reflect on the conversation with Karen Hafner who, along with her sister, cared for their father. Their family, like many, had a caregiving journey that lasted over several years, but then ended after a quick decline. Guidance for this final part of the caregiving journey is provided:When on a long caregiving journey, the terminal diagnosis can easily be forgotten, and the caregiver/family can be shocked when the end arrives.While in the day to day, caregivers can be lost in the...
2020-09-1024 minA Season of Caring PodcastA Family Caring TogetherSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, your host, interviews Karen Hafner. Karen’s father died just over a year ago and she shared the following insights regarding her caregiving journey with him and her sister:Even with strained/broken relationships, the opportunity to care for a parent can be a restorative time for everyone.When caregiving with sibling(s), approaches may be different, but allowing each to do what is comfortable for them can yield a successful team.Assess caregiver strengths and assign tasks accordingly.Embrace the time as a family . . . Do things together that they lo...
2020-09-0221 minA Season of Caring PodcastWearing the Advocacy HatSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, and Aly Neises, RN, cohost, reflect on the conversation with Kelly Johnson who provided helpful tips for caregivers as they wear their advocacy hat while caring for a loved one. Additional insights shared:Doctors and other medical professionals need all available information . . . Try writing a letter or sending a message before appointments to provide your perspective and avoid the uncomfortable situation of sharing in front of your loved one.It is okay to ask questions and want more information . . . Just keep your loved one’s wishes at center foc...
2020-08-2726 minA Season of Caring PodcastAdvocacy – An Important Skill of CaregivingSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, your host, interviews Kelly Johnson. Kelly lives in Chicago where she serves as the Director of Adult Faith Formation at St. Mary’s of Gostyn Catholic church. She is also the co-developer of the Nourish for Caregivers curriculum. Kelly’s caregiving journey began several years ago when her young son was unexpectedly diagnosed with a brain tumor. Her experience formed her passion for providing resources and support for other caregivers. Moving quickly through the “Why me?” phase allows you to focus and determine what is needed. You are then able to deal with w...
2020-08-2019 minA Season of Caring PodcastCaregiving = Juggling PumpkinsSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, and Aly Neises, RN, cohost, reflect on the conversation with Nancy Bouwens who provided a helpful analogy as she discussed her caregiving journey with her mother.Caregiving can feel like juggling pumpkins – responsibilities come in all different shapes and sizes and it is exhausting to keep them all ‘up in the air’. Everyone is doing their best not to drop one and create a big mess!We cannot juggle a lot of heavy pumpkins for long, so it helps to stop frequently and think about each pumpkin: Is it stil...
2020-08-1322 minA Season of Caring PodcastMindfulness and Self Care: Must Haves During a Caregiving JourneySend us Fan MailRayna Neises, your host, interviews Nancy Bouwens. Nancy is a writer, life coach, cancer survivor and caregiver. Nancy and her husband moved in with her aging mother and shares the following insights regarding her caregiving experience:Simply spending time with your loved one lets them know that they are valuable, they matter, and they are loved.Self-care is important and fills the bucket back up: taking a walk; reading; knitting; meeting friends at a restaurant or for coffee; feeding your creative side with new recipes, crafts, or activities you have not done in...
2020-08-0620 minA Season of Caring PodcastCaregiving Perspective – Duty vs. HeartSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, and Aly Neises, RN, cohost, reflect on the conversation with Kinsey Oglesby who experienced an unexpected healing during her caregiving journey. Additional insights discussed are:Even when there is a strained, difficult, or even non-existent relationship, the caregiver can still survive by shifting their heart.Personal care situations are difficult for everyone and caregivers who show respect and explain what they are doing and how they are doing it will have an easier time. It truly is not at all about the caregiver; it is all about the lo...
2020-07-3023 minA Season of Caring PodcastHealed Relationship - Unexpected Benefit From Caregiving JourneySend us Fan MailRayna Neises, your host, interviews Kinsey Oglesby. Kinsey is a coach, speaker, blogger, and writer who seeks to help women heal after trauma. After a five-year journey with her mother, she adds experienced caregiver to this impressive list of talents. And, although unexpectedly, her caregiving journey provided her the opportunity to heal from her own childhood trauma and develop a bonded relationship with her mother.Approach uncomfortable situations during personal care with dignity and respect. Once the bridge is crossed, it becomes much easier.Caregiving can build a kind of connection and bon...
2020-07-2322 minA Season of Caring PodcastCaregiver Stories and Learning From OthersSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, and Aly Neises, RN, cohost, recap Michele Howe's story and explore some of the stories from her book Caring for Our Aging Parents.Don't be a hero, find your limits, and get help.Learn from other's journeys so you don't have to learn from the school of hard knocks.The story of Joe and Frank from Michele's book- how things come full circle.Expose your children to older people to help them understand better. Learn to extend grace.Children bring a unique joy to those we are caring f...
2020-07-1722 minA Season of Caring PodcastCaring for Our Aging ParentsSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, A Season of Caring Podcast Host, interviews Michele Howe. Michele is an author who has been a caregiver herself and wrote an inspiring book Caring for Our Aging Parents: Lessons on Love, Loss, and Letting Go. Michele shares wisdom from her own journey and for those she interviewed for her book.Learn from each of your caregiving experiences by asking what went well and what did notSome have the eyes and heart to see caregiving needs and others just don'tMost of the time there is just one person in a fa...
2020-07-0923 minA Season of Caring PodcastA Caregiver's FaithSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, A Season of Caring Podcast Host, interviews Bosede Santos. Bosede cared for her mom during her mom's journey with cancer. She shares how her faith impacted her caring season.It is a season that is always on the go.Homeschooling advice- be willing to let others help and let them be as independent as possible.What can be automated in your life?Faith has always been apart of life.Bosede experienced healing before so standing on it in her caregiving was natural.Autopilot doesn't allow us to take care of...
2020-06-2521 minA Season of Caring PodcastEmotions, Grief, and CaregivingSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, and Aly Neises, RN, cohost, explores the emotions of caregiving, focusing on grief in response to Laura Beth DeHority's episode #18.Processing emotions is crucial Grief begins the day of diagnosisFeel the feelings, figure out how to process themAnticipatory grief is a part of caregivingGrieving is healthy and it is different for everyoneThe Mourner's Code by Dr. Allen WolfeltRemember to extend grace to yourself and others in grief
2020-06-1822 minA Season of Caring PodcastThe Many Emotions of CaregivingSend us Fan MailCaregiving is filled with many emotions. Rayna Neises, ACC, your host, talks with Laura Beth DeHority, a Licences Marriage and Family Therapist, who specializes in supporting caregivers. Emotions are a big part of caregiving but often a silent part. Laura Beth shares about the many emotions experienced by caregivers and what anticipatory grief looks like.Primary Emotions:Fear- of present, past, and futureAnger- the most passionate of the caregiver emotionsGuilt- caused by thoughts that you haven't done enough for your loved oneDoubt and Confusion- irrational thoughts that are the outgrowth of...
2020-06-1124 minA Season of Caring PodcastThe Impact of Boundaries on CaregivingSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, and Aly Neises, RN, is exploring more about child caregivers and boundaries in caregiving in response to my interview with Deborah Harlow.There are 1.3 to 1.4 MILLION child caregivers today according to the National Alliance for Caregivers.Navigating second-tier caregivers with boundaries is necessary.Talk with children to help them understand their role as a second-tier caregiver.Modeling family values and compassion will impact your children.Without boundaries, we lose ourselves.Honoring everyone's boundaries can be done with communication and compromise.Boundaries are definitely an important part of not...
2020-05-2827 minA Season of Caring PodcastSacred Relationships in CaregivingSend us Fan MailEpisode 16 Rayna Neises, your host, interviews Deborah Harlow. Deborah is a caregiver, coach, speaker, facilitator, and mentor who shares a unique perspective on creating sacred relationships in caregiving.Caregiving has to be done communally, with communication and agreementLearn to create the container of caregiving where it is good for all involved. No one getting lost in the role.There are cycles in life- learn from each of them. There will always be a next season of caring.Caregiving is a reciprocal relationship.Seeing relationships as sacred you will be much more intentional...
2020-05-2122 minA Season of Caring PodcastCaregiving with Legacy and Crisis in MindSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC, host, and Aly Neises, RN, cohost, talk more about the tricks of turning stuff into a legacy and handling a crisis from last week's podcast with Kathi Lipp. More on helping your parent downsize their stuff.Take the time to learn the story behind special items.Understand each person will value different things.Record the stories behind special pieces to save the true legacy.5 Minute crisis conversation will help remove the panic.Talk now can help avoid panic later.
2020-05-1428 minA Season of Caring PodcastReady for Anything and StuffSend us Fan MailEpisode 14 Rayna Neises, A Season of Caring Podcast Host, interviews Kathi Lipp. Kathi is an author who is on a mission to help you have less clutter and more life. Kathi shares her wisdom in preparing caregivers to be Ready for Anything and deal with life's stuff.People feel valued through their positions- ask to hear the story about the item to understand why it is so important to themHelping aging parent near and far in uniquely necessary waysFind your role in the caring teamHave fun with a 5-minute plan conversation before th...
2020-05-0722 minA Season of Caring PodcastTips to Care for You and Them All the Way to the EndSend us Fan Mail Rayna Neises, ACC, host, and Aly Neises, RN, cohost, dig dipper into the interview with Karen Weaver. Sharing more tips on caring for you and them all the way to the end.Provide care with dignity.More about Karen's book Reaching Up for ComfortNurturing your soul is a must- What does that look like for you?Staying in your lane as a caregiver.Establish the main goal to filter everything through- My filter was happy and healthy as long as possible.Pick your battles.Changing the environment to avoid triggers.Accepting change, gr...
2020-04-3025 minA Season of Caring PodcastReaching Up for Comfort in Your Time of CaringSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, A Season of Caring Podcast Host interviews Karen Weaver, PCC Coach and Caregiver. During their discussion, Karen shares about her 25+ years of being a caregiver:Faith is extremely important to her journey.Everyone has their own capacity. That is ok. Self-care is a must.Somethings that are important in her self-care routine.Things will never be the same- embrace your new normal.Let go of control-Everything is not going to be perfect.Learn from your season. Karen shares her story and many of the things she learns in her book Reac...
2020-04-2318 minA Season of Caring PodcastMore Resources for Alzheimer's FamiliesSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC and Aly Neises, RN, explore different avenues of support for Alzheimer's families and other caregivers. There are many opportunities for support in a variety of different avenues.Local Department of Aging, search your county agencies to find the location near you.Support Groups are offered by many different organizations. Alz.org, cancer.org, ALSA.org, and defeatdiabetes.orgGet the team in placeSee the world through the eyes of your loved oneA certified coach can come alongside you and help you process all the challenges in this seasonGerontologist can be a...
2020-04-1626 minA Season of Caring PodcastCaring for a Loved One with DementiaSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, A Season of Caring Podcast Host interviews Kathy Adkins, who supports families caring for a loved one with dementia. In this interview Kathy shares what you might need to know about:The demands of caringThe kinds of support out thereHow to find the help you needAvoiding developing dementia yourselfThe financial impact of the disease
2020-04-0922 minA Season of Caring PodcastUse Your Caregiver Tool Box to Find a New NormalSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, Host and Aly Neises, CoHost continue the conversation around what Deb Kelsey-Davis shared about taking what you have learned in past caring to adjust to the unique season of Coronavirus.Use the tool chest you have created caregiving to find a new normal now.It's OK to still have needs in this unique season.Be present. It will help you create special memories.Cherished memories are the little things in life.Ask questions of your loved one to check in on how they are feeling about this crazy timeKeep taking c...
2020-04-0221 minA Season of Caring PodcastLearning Throughout A Caring SeasonSend us Fan MailHost, Rayna Neises, visits with Deb Kelsey-Davis the cofounder of Nourish for Caregivers and Sagacity.care. Deb has spent her whole life as a caregiver in different forms. She shares her experiences and wisdom in today's episode:Don't put on a superhero cape and expect to do it allHow prayer can be instrumental in a Caring SeasonUsing the lessons of caregiving to handle the frenzy of the Corona Virus Your No can equal a Yes for someone else which can be a blessing for themAllowing others to share in the journey benefits you...
2020-03-2627 minA Season of Caring PodcastCaring in this Unique SeasonSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, your host shares heartfelt concern for family caregivers in this crazy season and 3 Tips for This Unique Season:1. Know that fear is normal. We are hardwired to fear when we are in danger.2. Limit your intake of media. Stay up to date but don't let it overwhelm you.3. Stay connected. Find the support you need.Rayna also extends an invitation to spend 30 minutes unpacking where you are and how you are feeling about the crazy. Schedule your no-obligation time today at
2020-03-1914 minA Season of Caring PodcastCaring for Your Marriage while CaregivingSend us Fan MailRayna Neises, ACC and Aly Neises, RN recap the interview with Deb Kalmbach about marriage and caregiving. Sharing experience and insights:Take time to ask your spouse how they are and how they feel regularlyPrioritize your spouse and your marriageA supportive spouse can look differentDo the little things to connect dailyShare the peaks and the pits of your dayHow are you nurturing your marriage in the caregiving season?
2020-03-1225 minA Season of Caring PodcastCreating Healthy Habits while CaringSend us Fan MailGinger Hill, wellness professional shares important, practical healthy habit tips for those in a caring season with host Rayna Neises. Here are the tips discussedImplementing daily habits to reach goalsUsing anchoring habits to increase successVerbalizing realistic expectations to help with staying healthyAvoiding all or nothing thinking
2020-02-2013 min