In a world where we often feel disconnected and overwhelmed, the quest for deeper meaning and spiritual awakening becomes ever more urgent. Today, my guest is Catherine Duncan, a board-certified chaplain, certified spiritual director, an expert in positive neuroplasticity, and a leading integrative spiritual consultant. She is also an author, holistic healer, inspirational speaker, and resilience trainer. Guided by her personal experiences as a childhood cancer survivor and a near-death experience, she brings a unique perspective on the interplay between emotional, physical, and spiritual health.

In this episode, we are honored to speak with Catherine, whose book, Everyday Awakening, has touched many lives and received endorsements from notable figures like Mel Robbins. With her book now in its second print run, she offers 42 exercises designed to help individuals awaken their heart and soul. Her work is not just about healing but about guiding others to unfold their true selves, helping them navigate life's transitions, and finding joy and peace amidst challenges. With credentials spanning theology, divinity, chaplaincy, and holistic healing practices, her approach is both heartfelt and deeply informed.

Join us as we explore insights she shares from her journey and expertise. We'll discuss what it means to awaken, how to practice presence in everyday life as caregivers, and ways to connect with something greater than ourselves. Whether you are a caregiver seeking solace and strength or someone on a quest for deeper understanding and purpose, today's conversation promises to encourage you.

Learn more at http://everydayawakening.com/

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co., a boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!

How do the spaces we inhabit and the art we encounter shape our emotions and thoughts, especially as we age? Today, we look at a world where architecture meets art and lifelong learning, a space where curiosity fuels our every day, no matter our age or stage in life.

We're joined by Lauren Henkin, the founder and CEO of The Humane Space, an innovative platform that's redefining how we engage with art and education throughout our lives.  She is an award-winning artist who has had multiple museum exhibitions, has been featured in Architectural Digest, Wallpaper* and NPR and whose work resides in premier museum collections. From shaping luxury wellness amenities to exploring the depths of creativity through her architectural expertise, she's now on a mission to enrich our lives with moments of awe and discovery.

In our conversation today, we talk about how Lauren's app is transforming the way that people of all ages including older adults and caregivers interact with art, offering a sanctuary for the mind where imagination and learning meet. We'll explore the science behind this artistic engagement and share tangible ways to invite more curiosity and mindfulness into your daily routine, proving it's never too late to explore, learn, and feel inspired. Thank you, Lauren, for joining me today!

Learn more at www.thehumane.space

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co., a boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!

What does it take to create a global movement that champions the well-being of our aging population? Joining us today is Jérôme Pigniez, founder and president of On-Medio and SilverEco.org, the premier portal for the Silver Economy sector. With decades of experience in demographic transition and technologies for autonomy, Jérôme has become a leading voice in aging well. His work spans speaking at international conferences, authoring influential reports, and guiding companies through the complexities of this vital industry. Today, we talk about the Silver Economy, and how exploring innovation and dedication come together to support our older adults.

The SilverNight Awards and the SilverEco & Ageing Well International Festival is an event that unites global leaders to celebrate and advance the cause of aging well. From Paris to Tokyo and now Cannes, this festival has grown to become a gathering for those dedicated to making a difference.

This international festival is a premier event that brings together experts, innovators, and passionate individuals from around the world, dedicated to improving the lives of older adults.

The SilverEco International Ageing Awards, SilverNight Gala, Expo, educational programs with 6 exceptional international congresses, and networking. Thank you, Jérôme Pigniez, for bringing us all together. In 2023, 16 countries were represented, and +1,500 attendees. This year they are expecting over 2,000 participants.

Don’t miss this chance to learn, share, and be part of a vibrant community working towards a better future for our aging population.

Join us on September 16 & 17th, 2024, and be inspired by these innovations in aging well. 

Learn more and register here

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co., a boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!

Elder abuse is a topic that's not talked about enough, yet it's a reality for many, cutting across various cultures and families. It's a subject that demands our attention, compassion, and understanding.

Today, we're honored to have Dr. Rose Joudi with us, an expert in the field of psychology, with a specialized focus on aging and ethnic diversity. With over 15 years of expertise, Dr. Joudi serves as the Research Lead for an ethnocultural elder abuse awareness project with Carya in Calgary, Alberta. Her work is shedding light on the nuances of elder abuse and fostering a society that respects and protects the dignity of our elders.

In our conversation, Dr. Rose shares what constitutes elder abuse, the unique challenges different ethnocultural communities face, and the surprising findings from Dr. Joudi's research. We'll explore the role of family caregivers, effective educational strategies, and the policy changes needed to address this issue. Dr. Joudi will also share practical advice for professionals and families, guiding us on how to recognize, address, and prevent elder abuse. Join us as we learn how we can all contribute to a safer, more compassionate world for our seniors.

Whether you're a caregiver, a professional in senior living, or someone interested in the well-being of older adults, this conversation is for you. Here is my interview with Dr. Rose Joudi.

Learn more https://drrosejoudi.com/

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com 

*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co., a boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!

How can a few key strategies transform your daily interactions with a loved one living with dementia into meaningful and positive experiences? Today, my guest is Dr. Natali Edmonds, a board-certified geropsychologist who has dedicated over 13 years to this field. Her journey is not just professional but deeply personal, driven by her own experiences and the countless caregivers she's supported along the way.

Dr. Natali Edmonds is the founder of Dementia Careblazers, a company offering 24/7 support to caregivers, aiming to tackle the challenges and loneliness often faced in this role. Her expertise extends beyond individual caregivers to consulting for long-term care and assisted living facilities. Recognized nationally, Natali's company was named the 2022 Caregiving Organization of the Year by care.com. She also hosts the #1 dementia training channel on YouTube, which has garnered over 16 million views worldwide.

In our conversation, we'll explore Dr. Natali's journey into geropsychology, her motivations for founding Dementia Careblazers, and her insights into the pressing needs of family caregivers. We talk all about dementia, and practical strategies for positive engagement so you will be supported in your care. Natali also shares valuable resources for caregiver support and her vision for the future of dementia care.

Thank you, Dr. Natali, for sharing your knowledge with us and for the wonderful work you do to support caregivers!

 www.careblazers.com

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co., a boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!

Allison Breininger became a caregiver for her husband, Sean, during his battle with a rare genetic disease. Through her experiences and the founding of The Negative Space, she has become a voice for those who often go unheard, providing a platform to discuss, support, and empower caregivers.

Today, we talk about the unique challenges spousal caregivers face, the importance of community support, and how society can better acknowledge and assist these vital yet often invisible pillars of strength. We talk through some hard-hitting questions: How does one navigate the emotional landscape of caring for a spouse? What misconceptions about self-care and support do caregivers encounter? How can friends and family offer meaningful help?

Allison will share her insights, shedding light on the reality of caregiving, offering advice, and discussing how her organization, The Negative Space, is paving the way for a future where caregivers receive the recognition and support they deserve. Join us as Allison shares about the strength and love at the heart of caregiving. Thank you, Allison!

Learn more at www.thenegativespace.life

Listen to our episode HERE.

Don't miss Allison's podcast In Sickness- Listen HERE.

Check out more of Allison's story on KARE 11 HERE.

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co., a boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!

What does it look like to bring generations together under one roof? Today, we are having a conversation around family, care, and compassion intertwining in the most unique way. We're exploring the concept of multi-generational living – a solution that's gaining traction in a world where the traditional boundaries of home and care are constantly evolving. It's not just about sharing a space; it's about reshaping the idea of what a home can be.

My guest today is Danniel Fuchs, Caregiver and Founder of Multi Gen Homes. Danniel's life took a turn when he sought suitable care for his father living with Alzheimer's. Unconvinced by other care options, he decided to create Multi-Gen Homes. More than an architectural concept, it blends hope, heart, and thoughtful design with profound care, functionality, and addressing the intricate dynamics of a family.

In today’s conversation, we talk about how Danniel's personal journey with his father's Alzheimer's diagnosis led to an innovative approach to care and family living. From the emotional and logistical challenges of transitioning to multi-generational living to maintaining resilience during loss, adversity, and uncertainty, we’ll explore it all. This discussion isn't just about constructing homes; it's about constructing lives, managing stress, and drawing lessons from a family’s experience.

Danniel, thank you for sharing about resilience, innovation, and the enduring strength of family bonds.

Learn more at www.multi-gen.com

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co., a boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!

On Saturday, April 6, 2024, caregivers gathered at ActivAge Sarasota and The Tribute at the Glen in Virgina for a supportive event, the Caregiving Forum. The forum offered a valuable opportunity for caregivers to connect, learn, and be encouraged.

We podcasted LIVE from this event and my guests share about the work they are doing to uplift caregivers. This is a great episode highlighting all of the important initiatives that are taking place- you don't want to miss it! See all of my guests listed below.

The highlight of the event was the keynote address by Dr. Rosemary Laird, who captivated the audience with her insights on self-care and the importance of prioritizing one's well-being, aptly titled "The Caregivers Toolkit: Self-Care and Taking Your Oxygen First." Dr. Laird's engaging presentation provided practical strategies and encouragement for caregivers, emphasizing that taking care of oneself is crucial to effectively caring for others.

In addition to the keynote, attendees enjoyed a free breakfast, which provided a warm and welcoming start to the morning. The event also featured various giveaways and access to a wealth of community resources, making it an invaluable experience for all who attended.

The Caregiving Forum was a wonderful opportunity for caregivers to come together, share experiences, and gain knowledge to support their caregiving journeys.

Special thanks to the event sponsors and the dedicated team at ActivAge Sarasota for organizing this impactful event. This podcast was made possible by these wonderful sponsors.

Be sure to stay tuned for future events and resources by visiting ActivAge.

This episode was made possible by: 

Alzheimer's Association

willGather

Seni

ActivAge

Caregiving Worldwide

Tribute Senior Living

Comfort Keepers

The Medical Team

CarePatrol

Brookdale

Intercoastal Research Clinic

81 Oaks

TrustCo Bank

Right Fit Reality

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co., a boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!

Have you stopped to think about what the later years of your life will look like? Today, we're diving into a conversation that touches each of us, directly or indirectly. Aging is a journey we all go on, but how often do we pause to really understand what it entails, not just for ourselves but also for those we love? This conversation aims to peel back the layers of aging, bringing not just insights but practical advice on navigating these years.

Joining us is Dr. Rosanne Leipzig, an internationally recognized geriatrician with over 40 years of experience in the field. Dr. Leipzig's journey in geriatrics is not just professional but deeply personal, inspired by her grandmother who showed her that no matter your age, life can be rich and full.

She holds the prestigious title of Gerald and May Ellen Ritter Professor and Vice Chair, Emerita, of the Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. During her career as a doctor, she has received numerous awards. She has been repeatedly named as one of the Best Doctors in America (Woodward/White, Inc.), America’s Top Physicians (Consumers Research Council of America), a New York Times SuperDoc, and one of New York Magazine’s Top Doctors for Geriatric Medicine. She has appeared on The Today Show, CBS Evening News, CBS Sunday Morning, CNN, and AARP Webinars, and has been published in TIME magazine, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, Bottom Line Health, AARP The Magazine, Consumer Reports, and American Medical News, among others. Dr. Leipzig brings a treasure trove of knowledge, shaped by a career dedicated to improving how we approach aging.

Today, we'll explore her latest book, "Honest Aging: An Insider’s Guide to the Second Half of Life," published by The Johns Hopkins University Press. The book is a candid look at what aging really involves—physically, psychologically, functionally, and emotionally—and how to adapt to these changes. Through a mix of scientific insights, patient stories, and Dr. Leipzig’s own experiences, the book challenges common myths and provides invaluable tools for anyone navigating or caring for someone in their later years.

As Martha Stewart says about the book, "It is essential reading for anyone who is growing older or whose loved ones are growing older ― in other words, for all of us!"

Thank you, Dr. Rosanne, for encouraging us to approach aging with more awareness and preparedness. I loved my visit with you!

Learn more at www.rosannemd.com

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co., a boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!

What is it like living with a condition that affects both your mind and body, yet remains relatively unknown to many? Today, we are shedding light on Lewy Body Dementia, a complex condition that challenges individuals and families in unique ways.

We're thrilled to have Julia Wood, a dedicated occupational therapist who specializes in neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Parkinson’s and related dementias. Julia's extensive experience, including her role as the director of Professional & Community Education at the Lewy Body Dementia Association, equips her with valuable knowledge and compassion for those affected by LBD. She’s here to share her expertise and provide guidance on navigating the complexities of LBD care.

In today’s conversation, we’ll explore everything from the symptoms and behavioral changes associated with LBD to practical strategies for communication, safety, and overall well-being. We talk all about the support systems available and look at how families can engage in advance care planning. Plus, Julia will share touching personal stories, shedding light on the resilience and challenges faced by individuals and families navigating LBD. Thank you Julia for sharing your knowledge with us!

Learn more at www.lbda.org

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co., a boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!