Dr. Cleo Booker courageously speaks up about the challenges of caregiving and the impact of substance use in a community where mental illness is often misunderstood and silenced. But, something happens that makes her question her beliefs and leaves her questioning everything she thought she knew. Find out what happens when the truth comes to light in this week’s episode. 

Dr. Cleo Booker has a deep-rooted purpose that propels her forward. Having firsthand experience with the harsh realities of mental illness, her life took a transformative turn. Today, Dr. Booker is highly respected for her work in both private and public roles, and she plays a vital role in Forge Health, one of the fastest-growing private companies. Her journey, from witnessing the stigma surrounding mental illness to becoming an advocate, is truly inspiring.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• The urgent need to understand and support mental health in our communities.
• The challenges of navigating unseen medical conditions with empathy.
• The vital role of honest family dialogues in addressing mental wellbeing.
• The impact of ancestral distress on caregiving and the importance of comprehension. 

About Dr. Booker:

Dr. Cleopatra Lightfoot-Booker (A.K.A “Dr. Cleo Booker”) is a nationally known Licensed Clinical Psychologist from Richmond, Virginia. She has led one of the country's largest behavioral health clinical teams and has held several Executive Leadership positions within state government, federal government, and the private sector. She is currently the Senior Vice President of Business Transformation at Forge Health, one of the fastest-growing private companies, according to Inc. 50000.

Dr. Booker has played a significant role across the country in helping to address the Opioid Public Health Emergency, increasing access to mental health services, raising awareness of mental health needs and stigma, and advancing technology to support the identification of mental health services. Dr. Booker continues working with various state and federal agencies, private companies, and community associations on policy, legislative, and multisystem changes.

Dr. Booker serves the community through her private practice (Focus4U, LLC.), pro bono work, and various volunteer community services.  She currently serves on the Board of Local and Regional Jails in Virginia, where she is the Chair of the Policy and Regulatory Review Committee and focuses on delivering medical and mental healthcare for those incarcerated. Dr. Booker has been featured for two years due to her expertise, candid, authentic nature, and ability to connect with people at the largest African-American festival in the United States, the Essence Festival, in 2021 and 2022. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, nature, dancing, and listening to any kind of music. 

Her favorite saying

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Jordan Peace's life story is marked by resilience and a testament to the power of empathy. At just ten years old, Jordan faced the harsh reality of cancer when his mother was diagnosed. However, instead of allowing the illness to define their lives, his mother's strength created a nurturing environment focused on love and family. This experience profoundly shaped Jordan, making him acutely aware of the struggles people often hide. Carrying these lessons into adulthood, he co-founded Fringe, a company dedicated to simplifying corporate benefits and positively impacting others' lives.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Realize the profound ripple effects cancer has on individuals and their loved ones.
• Understand the irreplaceable role of empathy and comprehension especially in trying times.
• Uncover your true identity amid the daunting responsibilities of caregiving.
• Learn about the recuperative and fortifying effect of straightforward discussions. 

About Jordan:

Jordan Peace is Co-Founder & CEO of Fringe, a lifestyle benefits company. Hailing from the world of financial planning, Jordan co-founded Fringe in 2018 after realizing that most people - especially Millennials - don’t understand their company’s corporate benefits. Along with four close college friends, Jordan created Fringe as a way to turn corporate benefits into a language that anyone can speak. He was previously the Founder & Chief Experience Officer of Greenhouse Money, and a Financial Advisor with Northwestern Mutual. Jordan lives in Richmond, Virginia with his wife and 5 kids. His favorite Fringe benefit is Sunday Lawn.

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In a world where life takes unexpected turns, Kathy Heberle's journey is a testament to caregiving's power. Kathy's story is filled with surprising twists, from her humble beginnings as a child thrust into the caretaker role to her later years as a successful real estate professional. But the true power of caregiving is revealed in the depths of her relationships and the unyielding strength of her connections. Join us as we delve into Kathy's remarkable tale, a journey that will leave you yearning for more, eager to explore the transformative potential of caregiving.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the hidden struggles and rewards inherent to caregiving.
• Unearth insights into managing complex family dynamics and relationships with siblings.
• Realize the critical significance of pre-planning for the inevitable end-of-life arrangements.
• Recognize strategies to balance your caregiving duties with your personal life and career.
• Embrace the transformative potential of caregiving to strengthen bonds with your loved ones.

Kathy Heberle is the eldest of four and someone who has innovation in her blood. At the tender age of five, Kathy already provided nurturance and care, traits inherent to a caregiver. Her life experiences geared with umpteen family circumstances became the cradle where she cultivated resilience and adaptability. Kathy’s caregiving journey spans over 17 years, and each year has been a revelation, an exploration of the self. From being a dedicated mother and a committed life partner to becoming an emphatic and adept caregiver, Kathy has worn all hats with grace and humility.

About Kathy

Kathy Heberle hails from the vicinity of Buffalo, NY, where she assumed her role as the oldest of four siblings, a position that naturally bestowed upon her the responsibilities of a part-time caregiver.

Her academic journey led her to the State University of New York (S.U.N.Y.) at Buffalo, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology. After graduation, Kathy relocated to Erie, PA, to embark on her professional journey at Hamot Medical Center.

Kathy encountered her future husband a few weeks into her new life in Erie. The couple recently commemorated their 42nd wedding anniversary. They are proud parents to a married daughter and dote on their two adorable grandchildren.

In due course, Kathy transitioned from her medical technology career to the real estate industry, which she found immensely fulfilling. Today, she thrives as a realtor, thoroughly enjoying every aspect of her work.

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Join Chris and Anthony Marchetti on a journey that centers around a personal mission: upholding family traditions while caring for their loved ones. Through the twists of their caregiving experience, they face challenges that reshape their outlook on life. As they support their grandmother during her battle with illness, they draw strength from the love of their family and friends. However, destiny has more in store for them, testing their resilience and prompting a redefinition of their notions of love and devotion. This is the story of two individuals, a celebration of family bonds, and a testament to the connections that unite us all.

In New Jersey, Chris and Anthony Marchetti lead lives fueled by love, dedication, and a passion for music. While Chris works at Goldman Sachs in Manhattan, he cultivates relationships, proving that connections remain important even in busy schedules. Similarly, Anthony balances his role in software sales at Salesforce with escapes to coastal getaways and snowy slopes. Beyond their individual pursuits, the brothers share a bond with their grandmother. Having taken on caregiving responsibilities since their teenage years, they've learned to navigate the complexities of this role, offering a glimpse into the world of compassion and resilience. Their journey is a commitment, a story that highlights the complexities of caregiving, and a tribute to the strength of familial ties in the face of life's challenges.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Empathize with the important role family and friends play in caregiving.
• Strike a balance between caregiving duties and your personal passions.
• Appreciate the significant impact of promoting an inviting atmosphere for loved ones.
• Analyze the constraints and considerations when distinguishing between at-home care and senior residences. 

About Chris:

I am 30 years old, born & raised in New Jersey, and I work in Manhattan for Goldman Sachs.  I have many interests, from movies and outdoor adventures to concerts and playing guitar, to history and binging museums.. I've always loved learning/experiencing something new.  But four things will forever remain true: Star Wars is the greatest movie, Lord of the Rings the greatest book, The Beach Boys the greatest band, and Family & Friends the greatest of all.. these are immutable.

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About Anthony:

I'm a 26-year-old living in Hoboken, NJ, just a hop away from NYC. I work in Software Sales at Salesforce in the city. For fun, I love going out with my friends and attending concerts. During the summer, I try to get down to the beach, and come winter, you'll find me hitting the slopes and skiing.

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In the whirlwind of life, sometimes the unexpected becomes our reality. It was a twist for Mike Marchetti that would forever change his path. Like many of us, Mike was thrust into caregiving after receiving a call about his ailing mother.  He would rush to her side, where he remained serving as an advocate, supporter, and devoted son for six weeks.  Later and without hesitation, Mike would support his wife Doreen’s idea to move her mother, Delores, diagnosed with Parkinson’s, into their home.  Mike's resilience shone through as he faced the emotional exhaustion of this new chapter. But little did he know, this was only the beginning of a journey filled with challenges, love, and a determination that would leave you wondering, what other twists await him?

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Grasp the true complexity of caregiving and simpler ways to strike a balance.
• Understand the paramount role of advocacy in health services to encapsulate fair treatment.
• Get a hold on the financial pressure of caregiving and viable ways to afford assistance.

Mike Marchetti is a seasoned entrepreneur with a past career in engineering. Beyond his professional success, however, lies a heartfelt journey through the highs and lows of caregiving. From the frontlines of electrical engineering to those of fast-food franchising, Mike gleaned a wealth of experience that fortified him for the role of a caregiver. His dedication to caregiving for others while managing his medical issues reflects his character and inspires us all.

About Mike:

Michael Marchetti graduated from Cornell University with a BS in Electrical Engineering. He then worked at the Kearfott Aerospace Division of the Singer company, focusing on Quality Assurance Engineering for missiles, US fighter jets, and fire control systems. During this time, he also obtained an MBA from Fairleigh Dickinson University.

After leaving Kearfott, Michael ventured into the fast food market sector, creating two franchise concepts that expanded to over 80 stores nationwide. He later sold the businesses and provided consultative services to other restaurateurs while dedicating time to teaching a chess program for K-8 grade students in the Montvale, NJ, school district.

He continued his involvement in education by managing and lecturing a middle school rocketry club, where students designed and launched model rockets accompanied by music at rocketry galas. Michael then joined the New Jersey Institute of Technology, focusing on manufacturing education and workforce development. He later transferred to the New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program (NJMEP), where he has helped NJ manufacturers improve profitability and workforce. NJMEP consistently ranks in the top tier among similar companies, contributing to New Jersey's corporate interests valued at over $7 billion.

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Life threw a curveball at Doreen Marchetti, testing her resilience unexpectedly. Little did she know the fierce independence of her mother would be overshadowed by the onset of Parkinson's disease. As if that wasn't enough, a devastating diagnosis struck her husband, further complicating her caregiving world. This is the story of a woman who faced unimaginable challenges, but what happened next would leave everyone wondering – how did Doreen Marchetti find the strength to carry on? Stay tuned to discover the unexpected twist that would change her life forever.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the hidden tension of balancing caregiving while thriving in your career, digging deep into the real-life dilemmas of professional caregivers.
• Learn about the critical role of personal autonomy in caregiving, particularly from the perspective of the cared-for individual.
• Gain insights into how caregiving responsibility impacts personal well-being, shining light on the often-neglected aspect of self-care for caregivers.

Doreen Marchetti is an accomplished professional with 40 years of experience in various roles at IBM across 44 countries. Despite her demanding job, she also became a caregiver for her mother, Delores, and husband, Mike. For over 15 years, she has managed dementia, Parkinson's, Crohn's disease, and cancer while maintaining her professional and personal responsibilities. In the toughest times, she remained a beacon of strength, expertly balancing her job and caregiving duties even while traveling for work.

About Doreen

In 2022, Doreen Marchetti transformed a layoff into an opportunity, leveraging her expertise to assist companies in revenue growth, partnership expansion, sales advice, and culture reset. She now holds multiple leadership positions, including a fractional VP at IonIdea, Channel Sales Consultant with Maestro Group, Leader in the Tech Sales Network at Woman In Technology International, Business Development Lead for Do Think Do, and a board member at startup iSolvRisk.

Previously, Doreen served as Vice President of NA Channel Sales at Global Knowledge for two years, leading a talented team before Skillsoft's acquisition in 2021. Her 40-year IT industry career includes a notable stint at IBM, where she exceeded growth expectations, particularly in Worldwide Alliances. Her global experience spans 44 countries and numerous business units, mentoring many professionals who continue to excel.

Additionally, Doreen has been a dedicated caregiver for over 15 years, advocating for better healthcare and empathy. As a board member, start-up advisor, and consultant, she continues to inspire others while enjoying her passion for cooking and spending time with her family.

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Experience the unexpected twists and turns that shaped Korene Carter's incredible caregiving journey. From a fateful encounter in a deserted house to becoming a trained CNA, Korene's story will ignite your spirit and touch your heart. But her true calling was revealed when she discovered the profound impact of personal connection in-home care. Brace yourself for an awe-inspiring tale as Korene navigates the intricate world of caregiving.

In a world where caregivers often go unnoticed, Korene is determined to revolutionize the care industry by empowering families with more control. However, when faced with opposition and daunting challenges that threaten to derail her mission, will she be able to find the answers she seeks?

We must never underestimate the power of support and recognition in a caregiver's life. By acknowledging their sacrifices and hard work, we can uplift their spirits, boost their confidence, and give them the strength to overcome the toughest times. Moreover, implementing effective physical and mental support systems can alleviate caregiving burdens, easing the practicalities of daily tasks and soothing the emotional strain.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the indispensable role of support and recognition in the caregiving journey.
• Delve into the creation of a caregiving structure that grants families autonomy.
• Understand the necessity of self-care for caregivers and the driving force behind supportive communities.

About Korene

Korene Carter's notable contributions to the geriatric care industry are truly inspiring. She is focused on advocating for a smoother long-term care process, an undertaking that resonates with many. Her unique approach involves building a professional network of caregivers in NYC who utilize a home care model known as "consumer-directed care", empowering families to take greater control over their care process.

Beyond her professional network, Korene has made significant strides in establishing a self-care community for families burdened with caregiver responsibilities. Through her "Retreat with Me" Jamaican getaways, she emphasizes the importance of self-care within the caregiving process. Given that caregiving can be highly demanding and stressful, Korene promotes the essential practice of prioritizing one's own well-being to prevent burnout and maintain a high standard of care for loved ones.

Numerous individuals and families could benefit from Korene's experiences and strategies. Whether it's about taking a well-deserved break from the pressures of caregiving or avoiding common pitfalls through proactive planning and self-directed home care, Korene's insights prove invaluable. It's heartening to see entrepreneurs like Korene positively impacting their communities and enhancing the lives of those they serve123.

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Natalie and her husband have been going through medical appointments and scans to check for cancer. After a long and difficult journey, they received the news that her husband is cancer-free, and the scans look great. The couple feels immense relief and gratitude for the positive results.

The radiation oncologist is described as a powerful and brilliant doctor who created the treatment protocols that saved Natalie's husband. She admires the oncologist and all healthcare professionals who have dedicated their lives to helping others.

Although her husband is now cancer-free, Natalie acknowledges that he is still dealing with side effects from the treatments. She emphasizes the importance of ongoing support and prayers, not just for her husband but all those fighting cancer or other illnesses.

Natalie expresses her love and pride for her husband's strength throughout the journey. She believes that their experience has brought them closer together and made them appreciate life even more. They are grateful to God and everyone who has supported them.

At the same time, Natalie acknowledges that the fear and uncertainty of cancer still lingers even after being declared cancer-free. She hopes that by sharing their story, they can help others who are going through similar struggles and raise awareness about the importance of cancer prevention and early detection.

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Natalie shared a brief update on her and Jason's battle with cancer. She received news from the doctors that the MRI looked great, indicating that the cancer continued shrinking. They are grateful for another answered prayer and plan to continue on the path toward full recovery while sharing their journey with others.

They have another MRI scheduled in September in Roanoke before a significant PET scan on October 3. The PET scan will determine if the cancer has spread to any other part of Jason's body. Although nervous about the results, they trust God's plan and believe He won't give them more than they can handle.

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Natalie has been on a long journey with Jason, traveling and dealing with his cancer treatment. After returning home, they both found it difficult to find their new normal.

To help them through this tough time, Natalie stresses the importance of maintaining their prayer and Bible reading routine, which has always brought them comfort. With work as a great distraction, they are trying to focus on finding moments of joy amidst the chaos.

Recently, they visited New York for post-treatment appointments. The city always brings Natalie a sense of calm and familiarity; this trip was no exception. The doctors gave them positive feedback, and Jason is on the road to recovery. She saw so much beauty from their hotel window and felt closest to God in New York.

Reflecting on their journey, Natalie realizes that challenges are a part of life, but gratitude can make all the difference. Even in the toughest moments, there's always something to be thankful for. 

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