caregiver podcast

When dental discomfort knocked at my door, it brought with it a landslide of challenges and revelations about the caregiver journey I never expected to face. The ache became a stern teacher, imparting lessons on resilience, self-advocacy, and the art of managing crises with a clear head. Through my own narrative of navigating a toothache, I peel back the layers on what it means to show up as your best self amidst adversity. This isn't just a tale of physical pain; it's a beacon for anyone who's ever felt swamped by the weight of caregiving, offering guidance on staying the course when the going gets tough.

The journey of a caregiver is often a solo trek, but this episode brings to light the collective wisdom and strategies to handle the emotional and practical hurdles that come with the role. From dissecting the emotional turmoil to strategically asking the right questions for expedited medical care, the episode delves into the importance of clear communication and the power of a strong support network. Whether you're in the throes of managing acute discomfort or teetering on the brink of feeling overwhelmed, the insights shared here will empower you to take actionable steps toward not just enduring but thriving in the demanding role of a caregiver.

Get my free resource:  17 SHIFTS TO TAKE CONTROL OF CAREGIVER STRESS that will take you to the best version of yourself.

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

Follow me by clicking on the links below:

• ➡️ Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT
• If you're interested in 1:1 Coaching ➡️ schedule a 30 minute FREE chat
• CONNECT WITH CATHY ON INSTAGRAM @cathylynnvan for daily tips and inspiration

In this episode, I share what to do when it feels like nothing is working in your caregiver life because these times are tough when you are the primary caregiver and feel alone and like you're the only one dealing with hard times.  I share my approach that helps me and my clients navigate the tough times and come out stronger on the other side.   I share my step-by-step process (which includes 7 questions to ask yourself) for assessing the stressful situation and creating a focused and intentional plan to move forward.  All along the way we also check in with your mental health to ensure that you're taking care of yourself as well as your loved done.  

Takeaways:  You are not alone in experiencing challenges in your caregiver life.  Caregiving is hard and it will have it's ups and downs.  Stop being so hard on yourself.  You are doing the best you can.  So grant yourself grace.  Assess the situation by pausing, checking in on yourself and identifying your stress.  Focus on what you can control and take intentional action.  find accountability and support to focus and navigate your tough seasons.  Remember the lessons learned from tough seasons for future challenges and to become a better you.  

Blog Post: Question To Check In With Yourself - https://www.cathylvan.com/blog/201

Get my free resource:  17 SHIFTS TO TAKE CONTROL OF CAREGIVER STRESS that will take you to the best version of yourself.

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

Follow me by clicking on the links below:

• ➡️ Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT
• If you're interested in 1:1 Coaching ➡️ schedule a 30 minute FREE chat
• CONNECT WITH CATHY ON INSTAGRAM @cathylynnvan for daily tips and inspiration

When life handed Tracy Donaldson the unexpected role of a dual caregiver, it carved a path of profound transformation, from corporate VP to the intimate realities of supporting both her mother and spouse through their personal health battles. This episode takes you through her candid journey, sharing the complexities of caregiving intertwined with the process of self-reinvention. Tracy's experience serves as a beacon for those navigating similar terrains, offering wisdom on harnessing your strengths and the courage to accept help without shame.

If there's one thing that my own brush with personal loss has taught me, it's that self-care isn't just a luxury—it's an essential part of the caregiving equation. This conversation unravels the self-care strategies that have been my lifeline: from meditation and exercise to the power of connection with friends. Discover the delicate art of maintaining your own well-being while fulfilling the demanding roles of a caregiver, and why it's crucial to find moments of joy and fulfillment amidst the responsibility.

In the rich tapestry of family dynamics and personal fulfillment, this episode explores the emotional depth and practical aspects of caregiving. As Tracy and I share our family experiences, we shed light on the importance of embracing each family member's unique contributions, finding personal strengths, and navigating the guilt that often accompanies the balancing act. Our exchange culminates with a focus on actionable steps to enhance the caregiving journey, emphasizing why it's essential to find joy and satisfaction even in the midst of life's most challenging chapters.

Get my free resource:  17 SHIFTS TO TAKE CONTROL OF CAREGIVER STRESS that will take you to the best version of yourself.

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

Follow me by clicking on the links below:

• ➡️ Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT
• If you're interested in 1:1 Coaching ➡️ schedule a 30 minute FREE chat
• CONNECT WITH CATHY ON INSTAGRAM @cathylynnvan for daily tips and inspiration

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 dance of learning to communicate with healthcare professionals, understanding medical information like a pro, and knowing when to take a step back. Empowerment in caregiving doesn't come easy—it's a patchwork of confidence built on acknowledging our strengths and confronting our limitations. Whether you're facing the challenge of interpreting lab results or learning when to ask for help, this episode is a testament to the growth that comes from every challenge we meet head-on.

As we wrap up, remember that caregiving is a marathon, not a sprint. It's about pacing ourselves, automating the mundane to make room for self-care, and allowing patience to guide us through the ebbs and flows of our roles. I invite you to reflect on your path and the zones you've traversed, knowing that this community stands beside you as a pillar of support and a beacon for learning and growing together.

Get my free resource:  17 SHIFTS TO TAKE CONTROL OF CAREGIVER STRESS that will take you to the best version of yourself.

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

Follow me by clicking on the links below:

• ➡️ Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT
• If you're interested in 1:1 Coaching ➡️ schedule a 30 minute FREE chat
• CONNECT WITH CATHY ON INSTAGRAM @cathylynnvan for daily tips and inspiration

As a caregiver, the rain of responsibilities can be relentless, but I've learned that the right umbrella can keep you dry and standing strong. It took me revisiting the trials of managing my mother's care after her lung cancer treatments to truly understand the weight and worth of setting healthy boundaries. This episode is a heart-to-heart on why erecting these protective barriers is essential for caregivers, and how doing so can be the very lifeline that keeps us afloat in a sea of demands. We navigate the delicate balance between professional duties and the intimate role of caring for a parent, sharing how to carve out space for yourself without apology.

Crucial to any caregiver's toolkit is the ability to communicate these boundaries with grace and firmness. I bring you real-life scenarios, like coordinating with my brother on our mother's medical appointments, to show you how setting clear expectations is done. We also tackle the finer points of working with healthcare professionals, maintaining patient privacy under HIPAA laws, and managing the influx of visitors. For those looking to transform their caregiving journey including deepen their boundary-setting skillset I point you toward the Empowerful Caregiver School. Join me as we affirm that the respect and support we give to our loved ones as caregivers is also ours to claim.

Get my free resource:  17 SHIFTS TO TAKE CONTROL OF CAREGIVER STRESS that will take you to the best version of yourself.

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

Follow me by clicking on the links below:

• ➡️ Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT
• If you're interested in 1:1 Coaching ➡️ schedule a 30 minute FREE chat
• CONNECT WITH CATHY ON INSTAGRAM @cathylynnvan for daily tips and inspiration

Six years ago, a moment of utter vulnerability amidst the chaos of caregiving led me to a breakthrough in self-care and managing stress. In this episode of the Caregiver Cup podcast, I invite you to journey with me as we explore the power of morning routines, not just as a list of tasks, but as a transformative practice for those of us dedicated to the care of our loved ones. Through my own experiences, I'll guide you in embracing those first critical moments of the day to establish habits that can ripple positive change throughout your life.

We'll unpack the concept of "habit stacking," where small wins in the morning can lead to impactful momentum, helping you navigate the daily challenges of caregiving with renewed energy and focus. I'll share the personal rituals that have seen me through seasons of busyness, normalcy, and extreme stress, providing insights into how carving out time for yourself can significantly uplift your well-being. By prioritizing self-care before the day's demands, we set the stage for a healthier, more balanced life as caregivers.

Finally, I'll walk you through the practical steps to build your morning routine, from gratitude journaling to 'Embracing the Suck,' and how to avoid common pitfalls like overcommitting or choosing stress-inducing activities. I encourage you to assess your day in "zones" and experiment with these small changes. Let's embark on this empowering change together, one morning at a time, as we aim to foster the strength needed to support both ourselves and those we care for.

Get my free resource:  17 SHIFTS TO TAKE CONTROL OF CAREGIVER STRESS that will take you to the best version of yourself.

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

Follow me by clicking on the links below:

• ➡️ Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT
• If you're interested in 1:1 Coaching ➡️ schedule a 30 minute FREE chat
• CONNECT WITH CATHY ON INSTAGRAM @cathylynnvan for daily tips and inspiration

Facing the silent battle that every caregiver endures, I had to confront the truth about stress and burnout, something my father knew all too well. It's a tale not just of struggle but of transformation, and I'm here to guide you through the turbulent yet hopeful journey of caregiving. My own story of job dissatisfaction and the demanding role of caring for another will provide a backdrop for this crucial conversation about choice, change, and the necessary tools to reclaim your well-being.

This week's episode is a candid exploration of the treacherous paths to caregiver burnout. We'll dissect those ten behaviors that stealthily lure caregivers into exhaustion and share personal reflections on the complex dance of setting boundaries. Discover how to recognize burnout's red flags and the pivotal moments where prioritizing your health can radically alter the caregiving experience. Trust me, this isn't just a discussion; it's a lifeline for those feeling the weight of their responsibilities.

Lastly, we'll unwrap the gift of self-care, discussing why it's essential and how to practice it amid the taxing duties of a caregiver. Tune in for practical tips on sleep, nutrition, and the power of maintaining connections. Plus, I'm thrilled to extend an invitation to a free training series that's waiting to arm you with strategies to keep stress at bay. This isn't just another episode—it's a stepping stone to a more sustainable way of living and caring.

Get my free resource:  17 SHIFTS TO TAKE CONTROL OF CAREGIVER STRESS that will take you to the best version of yourself.

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

Follow me by clicking on the links below:

• ➡️ Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT
• If you're interested in 1:1 Coaching ➡️ schedule a 30 minute FREE chat
• CONNECT WITH CATHY ON INSTAGRAM @cathylynnvan for daily tips and inspiration

Imagine, one moment you're navigating the ordinary challenges of life and the next, you're thrust into the role of a caregiver grappling with crisis after crisis. This was my reality when I had to put my personal life on hold to care for a loved one. Join me as I share this intimate journey, shedding light on the immediate stress and challenges caregivers face when a sudden crisis hits or there's a significant shift in caregiving responsibilities.

But it's not all doom and gloom. In the midst of these storms, it's crucial to arm ourselves with effective anti-stress techniques. I'll share mine with you - five calming techniques that have been my lifelines during stressful times. From the power of deep chest breathing to the magic of calming scents, these strategies, I have found, can make a world of difference. We'll also chat about five additional coping mechanisms: taking a deep breath, going for a short walk, listening to a fun song, taking a power nap, and speaking to a confidante. We'll discuss the importance of fueling our bodies with the right kind of nutrition during these times, because no storm is too big to weather when we take care of ourselves first.

Get my free resource:  17 SHIFTS TO TAKE CONTROL OF CAREGIVER STRESS that will take you to the best version of yourself.

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

Follow me by clicking on the links below:

• ➡️ Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT
• If you're interested in 1:1 Coaching ➡️ schedule a 30 minute FREE chat
• CONNECT WITH CATHY ON INSTAGRAM @cathylynnvan for daily tips and inspiration

Navigating the holiday season as a caregiver? Expand your toolkit with our personal stories and practical advice to create new holiday memories and traditions that bring joy and simplicity. As a caregiver myself, I've encountered many of the challenges and emotions that often arise during this time of year. I've learned valuable lessons along the way - from acknowledging my feelings to accepting the helping hand of a loved one. Trust me when I say, you're not alone in this journey, and this episode is designed to equip you with strategies for managing holiday stress and embracing the present.

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the holiday expectations? Let's put an end to that. We cut through the noise of what 'should be' and remind ourselves to say 'no' to overwhelming expectations and 'yes' to embracing the present. Through personal anecdotes and shared experiences, we guide you on a journey towards simplifying your holiday season – focusing on creating new traditions, letting go of high expectations, and realizing that it's okay to accept help. The tips we share are not just practical, they're life-tested, helping to transform your holiday season into a time of joy rather than stress. So join, as we explore together the art of embracing simplicity and finding joy in the present.

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

Follow me by clicking on the links below:

• ➡️ Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT
• If you're interested in 1:1 Coaching ➡️ schedule a 30 minute FREE chat
• CONNECT WITH CATHY ON INSTAGRAM @cathylynnvan for daily tips and inspiration

Did you ever imagine you'd be in this place, as a caregiver? Neither did I. As we celebrate National Family Caregivers Month, let's shine a light on the amazing work of over 50 million family caregivers across the country. Whether you're in the US or anywhere else, you deserve a virtual hug for all the extraordinary care you provide. 🤗

Picture a box arriving at your doorstep, 12x12 inches in size. Listen to the episode to find out what's inside and how these special items can help you on your caregiving journey.

To ease the overwhelming sensations that often accompany our role as caregivers, I share three gifts that you can give yourself - gifts inspired by a touching wedding ceremony in our family. These simple acts of self-care can help shift your focus, allow you to replenish your energy, and give you permission for a well-deserved break. We also delve into the importance of relishing the small moments of joy and intimacy that punctuate our caregiving journey. Together, we can find strength amid the struggles, and joy in the smallest of moments. Join me, and let's make the most of this challenging, yet rewarding journey.

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

Follow me by clicking on the links below:

• ➡️ Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT
• If you're interested in 1:1 Coaching ➡️ schedule a 30 minute FREE chat
• CONNECT WITH CATHY ON INSTAGRAM @cathylynnvan for daily tips and inspiration

Can't believe it's been six years since my caregiving journey began? I'll never forget that life-altering call I received from my parents, disclosing my dad's stage 4 pancreatic cancer diagnosis. Things became more overwhelming when my spouse too was diagnosed with stage 4 non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

As we journey through this episode, we'll be reminiscing on the incredible growth we've experienced as caregivers - the unyielding resilience, adaptability, and emotional regulation we've developed through hardship.

We'll delve into the significance of creating a robust support network, and establishing systems for efficient decision-making and stress management. I know the immense growth that comes with being a caregiver, the knowledge gained about the medical system, and the new found skills in preventing burnout. With this in mind, I have curated a free training series specifically aimed at empowering caregivers. It's about us, it's about our growth, it's about supporting each other in the journey.

Lastly, I want to celebrate the amazing transformations we all have undergone in this journey. I remember hitting rock bottom, taking a break from work and reflecting on my role as a caregiver. That moment sparked a series of changes, leading to the birth of the Caregiver Cup podcast and the upcoming launch of the Empowered Caregiver School. Here's to our courage, our resilience, and our little but significant wins. Let's keep growing, let's keep healing, and let's keep supporting each other.

Get my free resource:  17 SHIFTS TO TAKE CONTROL OF CAREGIVER STRESS that will take you to the best version of yourself.

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

Follow me by clicking on the links below:

• ➡️ Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT
• If you're interested in 1:1 Coaching ➡️ schedule a 30 minute FREE chat
• CONNECT WITH CATHY ON INSTAGRAM @cathylynnvan for daily tips and inspiration

Get my free resource:  17 SHIFTS TO TAKE CONTROL OF CAREGIVER STRESS that will take you to the best version of yourself.

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

Follow me by clicking on the links below:

• ➡️ Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT
• If you're interested in 1:1 Coaching ➡️ schedule a 30 minute FREE chat
• CONNECT WITH CATHY ON INSTAGRAM @cathylynnvan for daily tips and inspiration

Ever wondered how to transform your caregiving experience into a journey of peace, joy and empowerment? The answer lies in auditing - a process I recently undertook for my podcast, the Caregiver Cup, with the help of my coach, Krystal Proffitt.  Krystal's invaluable insights gave me a clear picture of my podcast's strengths and weaknesses. Our discussion spanned new tools, website evaluation, SEO, and the pros and cons of outsourcing - all elements that contribute towards taking a podcast to the next level.

But the idea of auditing doesn't just apply to podcasts. As caregivers, we too can leverage this process to move from a state of overwhelm to a stage of empowerment. Only a fraction of caregivers step into this phase, but the benefits are immense - tackling feelings of stress and loneliness, and above all, improving caregiving. In the episode, we explore three potential ways to perform an audit, assessing not just the caregiving aspect but also other life areas. 

Steve Hartert from JotForm helps us understand the central categories to focus on in a life audit, making it easier for caregivers to break down different aspects of life - from health to finances, and translate these insights into action steps. As we conclude, we discuss the joy that can be discovered in auditing, highlighting the importance of examining our current situation and making conscious efforts to enhance it. So, join us as we navigate through the process of auditing, filling our cups, and living our best caregiver lives.

Get my free resource:  17 SHIFTS TO TAKE CONTROL OF CAREGIVER STRESS that will take you to the best version of yourself.

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

Follow me by clicking on the links below:

• ➡️ Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT
• If you're interested in 1:1 Coaching ➡️ schedule a 30 minute FREE chat
• CONNECT WITH CATHY ON INSTAGRAM @cathylynnvan for daily tips and inspiration

Ever wondered how your body is signaling stress levels and what the clues might mean? Join me as I take you on a journey of self-discovery, mapping stress zones and crafting strategies to manage caregiver stress. Drawing parallels from the ER triage system and my personal experience with my husband's injury, we'll explore how assessing your stress can be the first step towards better emotional resilience.

Dive into the world of color-coding your emotions, a simple yet profound technique to recognize and respond to the undercurrents of caregiving feelings. Let's reveal the patterns hidden in green, blue, yellow and red zones; from days of tranquility to times of fear and frustration. I'll share my raw, personal journey during a six-week stem cell transplant, providing insights into feelings of isolation and exhaustion, and how recognizing your color zone can provide relief.

Finally, let's walk together as we navigate different emotional zones, harnessing green days to build strength and turning blue days into opportunities for self-care. I'll share strategies that helped my 8-year-old son Jamie manage his 'red zone' moments, and my personal introspective journey during my dad's chemotherapy decision. Ready to build your personal toolkit to manage caregiver stress? Let's get started.

Get more training on the color coding system and toolkit strategy, join the waitlist for the NEW, upcoming Empowerful Caregiver program 

Get my free resource:  17 SHIFTS TO TAKE CONTROL OF CAREGIVER STRESS that will take you to the best version of yourself.

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

Follow me by clicking on the links below:

• ➡️ Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT
• If you're interested in 1:1 Coaching ➡️ schedule a 30 minute FREE chat
• CONNECT WITH CATHY ON INSTAGRAM @cathylynnvan for daily tips and inspiration

Feeling weighed down by the stress of caregiving? Join me as I share a hilarious family story that teaches valuable lessons about handling stress and the importance of not overloading ourselves. Just like a canoe that can't handle too much weight, our minds and bodies can't handle excessive stress without tipping over. In this episode, I discuss the concept of a caregiver stress backpack and how we can learn to lighten the load.

I also examine the intense responsibilities that family caregivers face and the impact it has on their lives. With 71% of surveyed caregivers working while providing care, and 75% of them being female, it's essential to find ways to manage stress and prevent burnout. From preparing meals and assisting with dressing to providing social interaction, caregivers often feel like they're on a never-ending hamster wheel. In this discussion, I share my personal journey and the lasting effects caregiving had on my health, relationships, and career.

To help you navigate these challenges, I offer practical strategies for reducing caregiver stress and prioritizing self-care. By identifying your stressors, making small changes, and delegating tasks, you can lighten your stress backpack and create a healthier, more balanced life for yourself and those you care for. Remember, it's crucial to prioritize your well-being as a caregiver and take the necessary steps to become a successful and proud caregiver.

Get my free resource:  17 SHIFTS TO TAKE CONTROL OF CAREGIVER STRESS that will take you to the best version of yourself.

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

Follow me by clicking on the links below:

• ➡️ Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT
• If you're interested in 1:1 Coaching ➡️ schedule a 30 minute FREE chat
• CONNECT WITH CATHY ON INSTAGRAM @cathylynnvan for daily tips and inspiration

Are you juggling the challenges of caring for aging parents? Let us help you navigate this journey with valuable insights from Shay Domangue, an Internal Medicine Physician's Assistant and founder of the Elder Care Hub. As we explore streamlining medication lists, addressing caregiver burnout, and maximizing healthcare resources, you'll gain practical tools to better support both yourself and your elderly loved ones.

Managing medications is a critical aspect of caring for our aging parents, and Shay's expertise in this area sheds light on potential risks and solutions. We discuss the Beers List criteria, which highlights medications that pose high risks for the elderly, and the importance of maintaining a positive dialogue with physicians. Beyond medications, we also tackle the issue of caregiver burnout, exploring creative ways to alleviate stress, such as involving teenagers for small tasks or breaking the stigma of paying for caregiving services.

Shay's passion for elderly care is evident in her advice on preparing for a caregiver's medical appointment and her genuine drive to support the caregiver community. From organizing medication lists to utilizing available resources, we discuss practical strategies to ensure a more successful and stress-free caregiving experience. Don't miss this enlightening conversation with Shay Domangue, where we uncover the challenges and solutions for caring for aging parents.

You can find about more about Shay on Instagram at the.elder.care.hub or go to her website at theeldercarehub.com

Get my free resource:  17 SHIFTS TO TAKE CONTROL OF CAREGIVER STRESS that will take you to the best version of yourself.

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

Follow me by clicking on the links below:

• ➡️ Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT
• If you're interested in 1:1 Coaching ➡️ schedule a 30 minute FREE chat
• CONNECT WITH CATHY ON INSTAGRAM @cathylynnvan for daily tips and inspiration

Interviewing other caregivers are one of the best parts of being a podcaster.  But this episode is EVEN BETTER.  When you hear how a caregivers takes her skills and talents and uses them to her advantage in caregiving, you see the positive impacts to her advantage.   Rosa Everson is a caregiver, retired teacher, professional organizer and a declutter coach.  She shares her  incredible journey of becoming her mom's primary caregiver after her mom suffered a stroke. Rosa opens up about the challenges she encountered while dealing with facilities, paperwork, and legalities, and offers valuable insights on making caregiving more manageable and efficient.

You'll walk away from this episode with valuable tools and a renewed sense of purpose.

You can learn more about Rosa by going to her website at  https://www.ahome4everything.com/

Get my free resource:  17 SHIFTS TO TAKE CONTROL OF CAREGIVER STRESS that will take you to the best version of yourself.

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

Follow me by clicking on the links below:

• ➡️ Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT
• If you're interested in 1:1 Coaching ➡️ schedule a 30 minute FREE chat
• CONNECT WITH CATHY ON INSTAGRAM @cathylynnvan for daily tips and inspiration

Are you drowning in the demands of caregiving? What if there was a way to make your caregiving journey a little bit more manageable? Join me as I share valuable strategies for simplifying caregiving, by asking an essential question: "How can I make this easier?"

In this enlightening episode, I touch on the power of perspective, the importance of trusting our caregiving team, and the necessity of self-care in the midst of our busy lives. I discuss how embracing adaptability and actively prioritizing  well-being can alleviate stress and make the caregiving process more enjoyable. Plus, my personal experiences and how I've learned to implement processes and systems to make lives easier.

Finally, I invite you to connect with other caregivers in our private Facebook group, the Caregiver Cup Online Community. By sharing our experiences and supporting one another, we can make our caregiving journey a little bit easier together. So, don't miss this insightful episode packed with practical advice on making caregiving more manageable.

Get my free resource:  17 SHIFTS TO TAKE CONTROL OF CAREGIVER STRESS that will take you to the best version of yourself.

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

Follow me by clicking on the links below:

• ➡️ Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT
• If you're interested in 1:1 Coaching ➡️ schedule a 30 minute FREE chat
• CONNECT WITH CATHY ON INSTAGRAM @cathylynnvan for daily tips and inspiration

It's crazy how your brain is wired and what if feeds on.  Are you allowing your negative thoughts in?  What do you now believe about those negative thoughts?   How is it impacting you? 

In this episode, we're breaking down 

• what you are telling yourself (the positives and negatives)
• how it's impacting you as a caregivers 
• why it's easy for negativity to consume our thoughts and then we believe it
• how to switch those negative be thoughts and beliefs

It's essential to recognize that these beliefs are not necessarily accurate reflections of reality. Caregiving is a demanding role, and caregivers often neglect their own needs while providing support to others. Encouraging self-compassion, setting realistic expectations, seeking support from others, and acknowledging personal limitations can help caregivers challenge these beliefs and recognize their own efforts and value.

After the episode, take some time and answer these questions:

• what are your beliefs?
• What are your systems and support?
• What are your habits, patterns and behaviors?
• What are you and others seeing?  

Get my free resource:  17 SHIFTS TO TAKE CONTROL OF CAREGIVER STRESS that will take you to the best version of yourself.

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

Follow me by clicking on the links below:

• ➡️ Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT
• If you're interested in 1:1 Coaching ➡️ schedule a 30 minute FREE chat
• CONNECT WITH CATHY ON INSTAGRAM @cathylynnvan for daily tips and inspiration

Who's on your caregiving team?  When caregivers take a step back and look at their team and see the importance of the services, support and help, they'll be able to embrace the moments and joy in their journey.  

In this episode, we're unpacking:

• who's on your team
• benefits of your team
• thinking like a leader to that team
• tips and information on how to form and lead a caregiver team

Get my free resource:  17 SHIFTS TO TAKE CONTROL OF CAREGIVER STRESS that will take you to the best version of yourself.

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