What does it mean to be a highly sensitive person (HSP) — and how does that intersect with the caregiving journey? In this powerful conversation, Laura sits down with Todd Smith, creator of the Stress Management for Highly Sensitive People podcast, to explore the gifts and challenges of being highly sensitive while caring for a loved one. Todd shares his personal caregiving experiences, insights on inner and outer work, and practical strategies for reducing stress and embracing reframing as a tool for resilience.

👤 Meet Todd Smith:

Todd Smith is the host of the Stress Management for Highly Sensitive People podcast and founder of True Inner Freedom. For over 18 years, Todd has guided highly sensitive people in breaking free from stress and emotional overload through inquiry-based processes, including The Work of Byron Katie. A highly sensitive person himself, Todd draws on his caregiving journey and personal practice to help others find peace without needing the world to change.

📌 Topics Discussed:

- What it means to be a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP)

- Todd’s personal caregiving experiences with his grandmother, father-in-law, and mother-in-law

- Understanding the DOES framework for HSP traits (Depth, Overwhelm, Empathy/Emotion, Sensitivity)

- The overlap between high sensitivity and caregiving strengths

- How HSP gifts can also become challenges without boundaries

- Why inner work matters for caregivers (and how to begin)

- Reframing caregiving experiences as gifts rather than burdens

- Using inquiry to manage stress, guilt, and overwhelm

⏱️ Timestamps (Approximate):

00:02 – Welcome and introduction to Todd Smith

04:00 – Todd’s caregiving journey and family experiences

10:00 – What it means to be an HSP (Highly Sensitive Person)

15:00 – Exploring the DOES framework of HSP traits

22:00 – Caregiving strengths and challenges for HSPs

30:00 – Guilt, overwhelm, and the importance of inner work

40:00 – Reframing caregiving as a gift, not a burden

55:00 – Todd’s tools for stress management and daily practices

01:00:00 – Closing reflections and how to connect with Todd

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Around 15–20% of people are Highly Sensitive Persons (HSPs), and this trait can be both a gift and a challenge in caregiving.
• HSPs often excel at noticing subtle needs and offering deep empathy — essential caregiving strengths.
• Without balance, sensitivity can lead to overwhelm, guilt, or burnout.
• Inner work, like inquiry practices, helps caregivers process emotions and prevent stress from building up.
• Reframing difficult caregiving moments can shift perspective and bring a sense of peace.
• Caregivers need to care for themselves as much as they care for others.

📚 Resources Mentioned:

True Inner Freedom – Todd Smith’s Website

Stress Management for Highly Sensitive People Podcast

Research on Highly Sensitive People by Dr. Elaine Aron

The Work of Byron Katie (thework.com)

🤝 Connect with Todd Smith:

Website: trueinnerfreedom.com

Podcast: Stress Management for Highly Sensitive People

YouTube: @theworkasmeditation

🌿 Connect with Laura Vaillancourt & the Life on Repeat Podcast

Website: lifeonrepeatpodcast.com

YouTube: @LifeonRepeatPodcast

Instagram: @lifeonrepeat.podcast

Facebook: Life on Repeat Podcast

If you found this conversation helpful, please like, subscribe, and share this episode with others who may need encouragement on their caregiving journey. Together, we can make caregiving feel less isolating and more supported. 💜