Joyce Fiddler, a multifaceted artist and author, captivated listeners with her remarkable life story steeped in the spirit of the Baby Boomer generation. The conversation flows through her vibrant past, including her experience as a singer-songwriter who opened for legendary acts like Meatloaf and the Go-Go's. Joyce’s journey is marked by her struggle with alcoholism, which she candidly discusses alongside her years of sobriety. Having been sober for 34 years, she provides valuable insights into the impact of alcohol on women's lives, especially amidst the societal pressures that glorify drinking.

The discussion takes a thoughtful turn as Joyce recounts the personal challenges that led her to seek sobriety, including a poignant moment when her children intervened in her life. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of recognizing one’s struggles and the transformative journey toward recovery. Joyce shares how attending Al-Anon meetings opened her eyes to her issues with alcohol and led her to a profound understanding of addiction, not just in herself but in those around her.

Joyce introduces her newly released book, “Evolution of a Baby Boomer: Life Beyond Sex, Drugs, and Rock and Roll.” She reflects on her writing process and the motivation behind sharing her experiences. The book intertwines personal anecdotes with musical elements, offering readers a unique narrative that is both entertaining and relatable. Joyce’s message is clear: life is a continuous journey, and it is never too late to embrace change, find joy in creativity, and share one’s story with the world. Her infectious spirit and candidness are sure to inspire listeners to contemplate their own paths in life.

Takeaways:

• Joyce Fiddler shares her journey to sobriety, emphasizing the importance of support groups like AA.
• She highlights that sobriety doesn't mean giving up fun or excitement in life.
• Joyce encourages women to rethink their relationship with alcohol, especially in their 40s and 50s.
• Sustaining sobriety involves daily commitments and finding new passions to fill the void.
• Joyce reflects on her experiences as a musician, opening for iconic bands like Meatloaf.
• Her book combines personal stories with music, creating an engaging audio experience for listeners.

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Iris Weichler, with over 40 years of experience in caregiving and medical social work, supports patients and families dealing with catastrophic illnesses. She assists families in navigating post-hospital challenges by setting realistic goals and creating support systems. Weichler has authored three books, including “Role Reversal,” which discusses caring for aging parents and spouses, and stresses the importance of early conversations about care preferences and end-of-life decisions.

This episode highlights the emotional bonds formed during caregiving, the stages of loss experienced with progressive illnesses, and the significant increase in caregiving roles since the pandemic, especially among women. It emphasizes the necessity of self-care to prevent burnout, recognizing physical and emotional symptoms such as digestive issues, anxiety, and depression. Caregivers should educate themselves, set boundaries, seek help, and incorporate respite time into their routines to maintain well-being.

For full show notes please visit the shellydrymon.com

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Dr. Ginny Trierweiler is the author of the forthcoming book “Slender for Good after 50: Eat More, Stress Less, and Never Diet Again.” She is a psychologist and certified health coach who scoured the research to find evidence-based answers to her own eating and weight issues. She uncovered key principles from science for how to actually NOURISH the body so you can naturally release the excess weight.

Dr. Ginny was thrilled to realize we can actually CRAVE the foods and drinks that are GOOD for our body and mind. She loves to help others discover their slender, healthy body within, just by learning how to establish truly healthy eating and drinking habits. These habits can become so natural and effortless, making it possible to escape stress and worries about our eating, drinking, and our weight and focus our energy on living our best life!

You can find Dr. Ginny here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginnytrierweiler/

https://www.Facebook.com/ginny.trierweiler/

https://www.youtube.com/@slenderforgood/

In this episode, Dr. Trierweiler shares how her experiences—both personal and professional—transformed her view on diet and its connection to chronic disease, especially in the processed food-heavy culture we live in. From her battle with prediabetes to her time caring for nursing home patients, she explores how our societal norms often lead us down an unhealthy path.

We’ll discuss the tough realities of breaking free from addictive foods, navigating social settings, and why making small but meaningful changes—like Meatless Mondays—can have a lasting impact. Jenny also touches on the emotional and psychological aspects of food, questioning traditional dieting methods, and sharing her skepticism about intuitive eating for weight loss.

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My guest today is Louie Bischoff. She is the founder of the SOBER Relationship Blueprint, online relationship coaching that helps people who are sober from drugs, alcohol, food, gambling, sex addiction, and learn to build, healthy, mature sober love relationships. 

You can visit The Sober Relationship Blueprint website for more information.

On this episode Louie B shares her journey of sobriety and relationship-building after a divorce in 2011. She discusses how she coped with separation through alcohol until achieving sobriety in 2012, and the subsequent challenges of motherhood while raising two sons. Emphasizing the importance of open communication, she introduces the “Sober Relationship Blueprint,” focusing on Self-esteem, Openness, Boundaries, Evolving intimacies, and Readiness to help others build healthy relationships post-recovery.

Louie highlights that sobriety involves personal growth and effective relationship management. She shares examples, such as a woman struggling with deeper emotional issues despite long-term sobriety, underscoring the need for self-esteem and boundaries to avoid unhealthy patterns. Reflecting on her toxic marriage, Louie notes the importance of rebuilding self-worth and understanding family dynamics to foster personal growth and prevent past mistakes.

For full show notes visit the shellydrymon.com

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In this episode Debbie shares her 40-year journey as a caregiver, beginning with her nursing career inspired by her father’s advice. After retiring in 2016, she remarried her former husband, who had a family history of Alzheimer’s, presenting new challenges as his cognitive health declined. Debbie faced significant stress, isolation, and increased responsibilities, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Throughout her caregiving experience, Debbie struggled with feelings of anger, sadness, and physical health issues, including high blood pressure and severe depression. She sought relief in meditation and eventually therapy, finding virtual sessions helpful. The financial strain from lost

income and caregiving costs compounded her stress. Debbie emphasizes the importance of therapy, support groups, and community engagement, sharing anecdotes about unexpected help from friends and advising caregivers to seek support proactively. After her husband passed away, she adopted coping strategies like meditation and exercise but struggled to re-engage in community activities. She highlights the physical and emotional toll of caregiving and stresses the need for personalized self-care strategies, advocating for self-compassion and avoiding comparisons to others’ experiences.

As an integrative nutrition coach, Debbie also focuses on holistic health, diet, and its effects on issues like gut health and sleep. She discusses the connection between gut health and brain function. Ultimately, she calls for greater public awareness and support for caregivers, emphasizing that they often struggle in silence and need more resources and understanding.

facebook.com/debbie.hinnant

@instagramdebbie.hinnant

@tiktok/debbie.hinnant

linktr.ee/deborahhinnant

myamareglobal.com/85459

email: [email protected]

To text 828-900-2797

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Denise Brown joins Shelly to discuss the critical challenges faced by caregivers, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the emotional toll of caregiving. With her extensive experience in supporting family caregivers, Denise shares insights on how navigating multiple systems can lead to chronic burnout and stress. The conversation touches on the need for better support structures and the potential for new Medicare services in 2024 aimed at assisting caregivers. Denise also highlights the importance of prioritizing one's own quality of life while caregiving, encouraging caregivers to articulate their needs and values. This empowering dialogue serves as a reminder that while the caregiving journey can be overwhelming, understanding personal priorities and seeking support can lead to a more balanced experience.

A profound exploration of the caregiving experience unfolds as Shelly interviews Denise Brown, a prominent figure in the caregiving community. Their conversation dives deep into the emotional and practical challenges that caregivers face, drawing from Denise's extensive history in caregiving dating back to 1990. Listeners are taken on a journey of Denise's personal experiences, which include caring for her parents and grappling with the losses she endured. This candid discussion reveals the often-hidden emotional scars that caregivers bear as they navigate a system that frequently overlooks their needs and contributions.

The episode sheds light on the pressing issues within the caregiving landscape, such as the lack of financial compensation for family caregivers and the systemic barriers that prevent adequate support. Denise discusses the upcoming changes in Medicare services set to take effect in 2024, which aim to provide some relief for caregivers. The slow but necessary progress in recognizing caregivers as vital components of the healthcare system is a significant theme throughout the episode. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the societal norms that dictate how we view caregiving and the urgent need for comprehensive changes that recognize the sacrifices made by family caregivers.

Denise also emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and self-care, urging caregivers to prioritize their well-being as they care for others. By sharing practical strategies and resources, she empowers listeners to seek support and build community connections. The conversation is rich with insights on how caregivers can find balance in their lives, ensuring their needs are met while providing care. This episode not only serves as an informative guide for caregivers but also as a call to action for society to better support those who selflessly care for others.

Takeaways:

• The emotional toll of caregiving often leads to chronic burnout and stress.
• It's essential for caregivers to prioritize their own quality of life and self-care.
• Advocacy and community support can significantly enhance the caregiving experience for many.
• Listening to caregivers and offering compassionate support can help them cope better.
• Navigating multiple healthcare systems is a common struggle for many family caregivers.
• The upcoming Medicare services in 2024 aim to provide much-needed support for caregivers.

Links referenced in this episode:

• www.empowerherwellness.com
• www.caringforcaregivers.com
• www.denisebrown.com
• www.caringway.com

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To see full show notes and information about Catherine please visit her episode on the shellydrymon.com

In this conversation Catherine and I talk about the impact of thoughts on actions and overall well-being, particularly focusing on sleep difficulties. Sharing her struggles with intrusive thoughts affecting her sleep, she underscores the connection between thoughts and emotions, and the necessity of addressing thought patterns to achieve balance. The text highlights how self-talk influences mental and physical health, advocating for understanding its power to foster positive change. The concept of neuroplasticity is introduced, suggesting that individuals can reshape their thinking over time.

Reflecting on attributing negative behaviors and relationship issues to external circumstances, Catherine emphasizes breaking the cycle of pain and blame by challenging automatic negative thoughts (ANTS). Using the yellow car theory, they illustrate how focusing on negativity distorts reality and suggest techniques like affirmations to counter this. The importance of personal growth and the non-linear nature of change is acknowledged, stressing that thoughts should be seen as neutral and not dictate emotions or actions.

Living in the present and separating from negative thoughts is emphasized, referencing Michael Singer’s “The Untethered Soul.” Catherine shares how shifting focus from past regrets and future worries to the present moment increased their happiness. They discuss the role of neuroplasticity in emotional well-being and highlight James Allen’s work on the influence of thoughts on experiences. Acceptance of emotions without labeling them as good or bad is advocated, allowing frustrations to dissipate naturally.

In this episode we all address emotional perspective and self-compassion, promoting grace towards others and the transformative power of love and gratitude, referencing Dr. Emoto’s research on emotions’ impact on water. Positive self-talk and language’s influence on well-being are stressed, This is illustrated in Catherine’s journey through grief and the power of choice in redirecting focus towards gratitude and new pursuits.

The importance of engaging in healing activities and allowing oneself to grieve after loss is highlighted, challenging the notion that one must always maintain a positive outlook. Catherine’s experiences show how negative thoughts affect mental and physical health, suggesting that awareness and positive self-talk can enhance control over health. Reflecting on feelings of worthlessness, they reference “The Mountain is You,” which advocates transforming self-sabotage into self-mastery. The necessity of stepping outside comfort zones for growth is discussed, along with the vital role of supportive relationships and community in fostering resilience.

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Caregiving often takes on a different meaning when faced with the challenges of rare conditions, as highlighted by Shelly and her guest, Allison Breininger. They explore the concept of "YOLO" (You Only Live Once) and how it transforms in the lives of caregivers, emphasizing the need to find joy in small moments rather than grand adventures. Allison shares her personal journey of caregiving for her husband, Sean, who has a rare genetic disease, illuminating the struggles and triumphs that come with that role. The discussion delves into the importance of painting a realistic picture for friends and family about the demands and energy required in caregiving, fostering understanding and empathy. Throughout the conversation, both women encourage caregivers to seek out little joys and connections in their daily lives, reinforcing that self-care and community support are vital in navigating the complexities of caregiving.

Shelly and Allison engage in a heartfelt dialogue that centers around the often-misunderstood world of caregiving, particularly how it impacts relationships and personal well-being. Through their shared experiences, they illuminate the challenges caregivers face in maintaining a sense of normalcy while managing the extensive demands of their roles. The discussion poignantly addresses the shift in lifestyle that occurs when one partner becomes a caregiver, emphasizing the emotional upheaval and the need to adapt to new realities. They explore the psychological burden that comes with constant vigilance and the fear of illness, highlighting how caregivers often prioritize the well-being of their loved ones over their own, leading to feelings of isolation and burnout.

Allison reflects on her journey as a caregiver for her husband, Sean, who battles a rare genetic disease. She candidly shares the strain it has placed on her life, including the need to constantly advocate for his health needs while also managing her own emotions and expectations. This episode serves as a powerful reminder that caregivers are also individuals with their own needs and feelings, often neglected in the caregiving narrative. The conversation flows into practical advice on how caregivers can seek support, the significance of community, and the need for open dialogues within social circles about the realities of caregiving. By the episode's conclusion, listeners are left with a profound understanding of the caregiver experience and a call to action to support those who are often the unsung heroes in the healthcare landscape.

Takeaways:

• Caregivers often feel overlooked and under-supported, despite being vital to their loved ones' well-being.
• The concept of 'YOLO' takes on a different meaning for caregivers, emphasizing the need for careful planning.
• It's important for caregivers to communicate their needs and experiences to friends and family.
• Caregiving can lead to a heightened sense of anxiety, impacting both physical and mental health.
• Finding joy in small moments can significantly boost a caregiver's morale and well-being.
• Creating space for honest discussions about caregiving challenges can foster greater understanding and support.

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Rhonda Linn shares her journey into seasonal living, emphasizing the importance of aligning life with natural rhythms and creating supportive systems. Overwhelmed by her education career and reevaluating her path during the COVID pandemic, she transitioned to a copywriting and virtual assistant business for spiritual entrepreneurs. Inspired by Kate Northrup’s “Do Less,” she realized the unrealistic productivity expectations placed on individuals and adopted a gentler approach to life and caregiving, stressing the need for caregivers to recharge.

This episode looks at the natural cycles of abundance and dormancy with societal pressures for constant productivity, which can lead to exhaustion and poor decision-making. It advocates setting boundaries and allowing oneself to rest as crucial self-care practices, differentiating between superficial and deeper self-care approaches that address systemic issues like work overload. Practical suggestions include journaling to track feelings and energy levels, incorporating seasonal rhythms into family life, and using services like meal prep to reduce stress.

Rhonda also shares her transition from urban living to managing a larger property, driven by a desire to grow healthier food, inspired by her childhood experiences on her grandfather’s farm. She has developed a food forest with perennial fruit and nut trees and aims to empower others through her writing, including a Substack publication and an upcoming book of poems focused on grief and personal growth.

Emphasizing the importance of aligning personal schedules with individual needs, Rhonda notes the differences in energy patterns among individuals and advocates for self-awareness to optimize routines. She suggests journaling to track energy levels and reflects on how adjusting schedules based on energy levels could improve job performance. Practices like gratitude and emotional logging are highlighted for personal change, along with communicating one’s working style to achieve better professional outcomes while prioritizing personal needs.

Reflecting on societal pressures and the toll of caregiving, Rhonda advocates for self-compassion during tough times, likening care responsibilities to changing seasons. She discusses her marketing agency focused on holistic wellness and plans to introduce book coaching and writing workshops. She concludes with advice to be gentle with oneself while assessing societal expectations against personal inclinations.

The central theme of this episode is Rhonda Linn’s transformative journey into seasonal living, which underscores the significance of aligning one’s life with natural rhythms and establishing supportive systems. Rhonda’s story is a powerful narrative of overcoming professional burnout and societal pressures for constant productivity by adopting a gentler, more self-compassionate approach to life and caregiving.

For expanded show notes visit the shellydrymon.com

Please note this episode talks about suicide - it may be triggering for some.

If you are or anyone you know is struggling please call 988. There is help, you are not alone.

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In this deeply personal episode, Keana shares her journey through mental health struggles, emphasizing the crucial need for open dialogue, community support, and self-discovery. She recounts her experiences with depression, suicidal thoughts, and the healing process, providing valuable insights and advice for those facing similar challenges. You can pre-order her book Healing Out Loud here.

Keana Shatteen is a distinguished speaker, advocate, author, and transformational coach focused on emotional and mental resilience. Her mission is to turn pain into strength, helping individuals navigate significant losses and overcome life's toughest challenges. After surviving profound grief and a suicide attempt, Keana rebuilt her life and now uses her personal experiences to guide others toward healing and growth. Her memoir, "Healing Out Loud," details her journey from despair to transformation, offering readers genuine insights and practical advice. As a transformational speaker and coach, Keana encourages open, honest conversations and fosters a compassionate, authentic society. Her holistic approach integrates emotional, mental, spiritual, and energy healing, offering comprehensive personal development. Through personalized coaching, impactful speaking engagements, and a supportive community, Keana empowers individuals to reclaim their lives. Her advocacy for suicide prevention and mental health awareness inspires others to pursue self-realization and contribute to a more compassionate world. Keana Shatteen is a beacon of hope and transformation, dedicated to making a lasting positive impact.

Keana shares her struggles with mental health, including a suicide attempt five years ago, to highlight the importance of discussing emotional distress and finding strength through low moments. She recounts her severe depression and healing journey through Emotions Anonymous, emphasizing community support, spiritual awakening, and addressing unresolved issues to prevent stress and health problems, especially during pandemic isolation. Keana stresses the value of self-discovery beyond traditional roles and taking responsibility for one’s life. Gratitude and positive affirmations are recommended to combat negative thoughts and enhance well-being.

Suicidal thoughts stem from deep pain rather than selfishness and Keana provides advice on supporting someone who may be suicidal by asking open-ended questions and fostering a safe dialogue. They advocate for compassion over judgment, ongoing support, and resources like the 988 suicide crisis hotline.

This episode underscores the necessity of open conversations about mental health to reduce societal stigma. Through a personal anecdote, Keana illustrates the community impact of suicide and discusses her forthcoming book, “Healing Out Loud,” aimed at helping others through shared experiences. They reflect on transitioning from corporate HR to writing and speaking, focusing on adolescents affected by social media pressures. Keana encourages seeking support and self-advocacy during difficult times, highlighting that challenges can lead to new beginnings.

For extended show notes please visit the shellydrymon.com