By J Smiles
Get engulfed in the intense journey of a caregiver who happens to be a comedian. J Smiles use of levity reveals the stress and rewards of caregiving interwoven with her own personal journey.
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4.9
3838 ratings
The podcast currently has 99 episodes available.
In this episode, we sit down with fan-favorite, comedian Kelly Kellz. Known for her side-splitting stand-up and hilarious videos online, Kelly isn't just funny—she’s real. Kelly opens up about her life beyond the laughs, sharing her love for her family, maternal influences, the ups and downs of having the gift of comedy, and how transparency heals.
J Smiles dives deep with Kelly as she talks about her journey helping her grandmother care for one of her great-grandmothers, both 'spunky' women who lived into their 90s, passing recently. Kelly also shares her raw experiences as a mom, balancing comedy, caregiving, and motherhood. Discover her heartwarming and hilarious stories about both of her great-grandmothers, how she’s earned the title of "#GrandmaWhisperer," and practical tips for anyone navigating the challenges of caregiving.
Tune in for candid conversations, expert caregiver advice, and hilarious anecdotes that only Kelly Kellz and J Smiles can deliver. If you love comedy, caregiving stories, and authentic, no-filter conversations, this episode is for you!
Visit Kellykellz.com for more on today's guest!
#CaregivingJourney
#sandwichgeneration
#FamilyCaregiver
#BlackFamilyStories
#CaregivingTips
#RealTalk
#UnfilteredConversations
#PodcastEpisode
#BlackExcellence
#EndAlz
Host: J Smiles
Producer: Mia Hall
Editor: AnneliseTV
"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDGFb1t2RC_m1yMnFJ2T4jw
Patreon: https://patreon.com/jsmilesstudios
TEXT 'PODCAST" to +1 404 737 1449 - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
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Welcome to our new series - Comedians Care! First up we have multi-talented comedienne Cocoa Brown!
Ever wondered how humor can become a lifeline when facing life's toughest challenges? Cocoa Brown shares her personal journey of balancing comedy and caregiving. Cocoa's parents unfortunately faced devastating health issues, including early onset dementia, diabetes, and cancer, nonetheless, she was able to find ways to take care of them through their last days.
This episode delves into the complexities of family dynamics and the emotional toll of caregiving. Cocoa talks about the heart-wrenching yet beautiful moments spent with her parents, including difficult decisions about their living arrangements and the pressures of managing two households. Through her reflections, Cocoa offers wisdom on maintaining relationships, managing financial stress, and the honor of fulfilling a loved one's final wishes.
Cocoa's journey is not just about caregiving but also about maintaining her flourishing career in comedy. Don't miss this powerful and uplifting conversation with the J Smiles and Cocoa Brown.
Visit https://cocoabrown4life.com/ for updates on Cocoa's happenings.
Host: J Smiles Comedy
Producer: Mia Hall
Editor: Annelise Udoye
#ComediansCare
#CocoaBrown
#ComedyAndCaregiving
#CaregivingJourney
#FamilyDynamics
#HumorInHardTimes
#EmotionalWellness
#CaregivingChallenges
#DementiaAwareness
#DiabetesSupport
#ComedyAndHealing
#CaregivingStories
"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDGFb1t2RC_m1yMnFJ2T4jw
Patreon: https://patreon.com/jsmilesstudios
TEXT 'PODCAST" to +1 404 737 1449 - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review!
Join us as we speak with the incomparable Dr. Tina, a member of the sandwich generation. In this episode, we dive into the science and emotional toll of caregiving, highlighting the struggles and the small victories that make it all worthwhile.
From managing medications and doctor appointments to maintaining our mental health, the responsibilities of caregiving are immense. Dr. Tina offers invaluable insights into the need for systemic change and community support, shedding light on the often-overlooked heroes of the healthcare system. We also discuss the importance of quality life experiences, advocating for a person-centered approach that prioritizes emotional well-being.
One standout feature of this episode is our deep dive into CareMobi, an innovative app developed by Dr. Tina to streamline caregiving tasks.
Visit https://nursing.nyu.edu/w/caremobi for more information and you can follow Enlightened Caregiver on Instagram.
Host: @Jsmilescomedy
Producer: @miahalltv
Editor: @Annelisetv
"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDGFb1t2RC_m1yMnFJ2T4jw
Patreon: https://patreon.com/jsmilesstudios
TEXT 'PODCAST" to +1 404 737 1449 - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review!
Can you imagine juggling a caregiving routine for a parent with Alzheimer's while preparing for a last-minute TV comedy appearance? That's the reality I faced as I navigated a whirlwind of chaos, laughter, and heartfelt moments. With help from my incredible teams, I managed to balance podcast production and the meticulous caregiving of my mom. Through all the craziness, I learned the vital importance of resilience, adaptability, and finding humor in the most challenging situations.
From the chaotic preparations to the serene moments of connecting with fellow comedians, this time was nothing short of an emotional rollercoaster. I share the behind-the-scenes antics that went into making the TV show appearance happen—think frantic late-night adjustments and last-minute logistical hurdles. But the real magic happened in the comedy green room, where I reconnected with the amazing Kelly Kellz and the legendary Cocoa Brown. I also met Palmer Williams for the first time.
Lastly, we explore the importance of trust, integrity, and authenticity in building relationships, both online and offline.
Visit fox5atlanta.com/shows/portia for the Season Finale of the Portia Show featuring J Smiles!
Hosted by: J Smiles
Producer: MiaHallTV
Editor: AnneliseTV
"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDGFb1t2RC_m1yMnFJ2T4jw
Patreon: https://patreon.com/jsmilesstudios
TEXT 'PODCAST" to +1 404 737 1449 - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review!
What if you suddenly found yourself in a role you never imagined, caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's? Join me as I share my unexpected journey from an accomplished career in engineering, law, and activism to becoming a full-time caregiver for my mother, Zetty. Despite my professional background, caregiving was never part of my life plan.
Through humor and raw honesty, I share the emotional and physical weight of this unplanned responsibility, debunking the myth that caregiving is a natural fit for me. In this heartfelt episode, I reflect on the shifts in my life following Zetty's Alzheimer's diagnosis. From her love of travel and social justice to my own dreams of living abroad and an interrupted proposal, my story underscores how caregiving profoundly alters life plans.
I explore the concept of choice, showing how embracing caregiving as a conscious decision can help mitigate regret and confusion.
Join Patreon community: Patreon.com/jsmilesstudios
Where fellow caregivers can find exclusive content and support.
#CaregivingJourney
#AlzheimersAwareness
#EndALZ
#CareerTransition
#CaregivngComedy
#CaregivingChallenges
#FamilyCaregiver
#CaregivingLife
#CaregiverReflection
"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDGFb1t2RC_m1yMnFJ2T4jw
Patreon: https://patreon.com/jsmilesstudios
TEXT 'PODCAST" to +1 404 737 1449 - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review!
Have you ever felt the frustration of juggling caregiving with everyday life hassles? Well, you're not alone. Today, we hear the life-changing story of family caregiver, Sheri Atwood, who turned daily annoyances into an innovative creation. I share my deeply personal experience of caring for my mother with Alzheimer's, shedding light on the urgency of early detection and the complex world of family dynamics. Sheri joins us to offer her heartfelt story about managing caregiving, indifferent siblings, and her business, SupportPay.
Are you curious about how to navigate the financial maze of caregiving? We've got you covered. In our discussion on managing caregiving finances, Sheri introduces SupportPay—a game-changing app initially developed for divorced parents but now catering to the broader caregiving community. By consolidating financial tasks and communications into one seamless platform, SupportPay relieves the administrative burden, allowing caregivers to focus on what truly matters: providing emotional support and care. We dive into the app's features, user experiences, and practical benefits that can make a real difference in your caregiving journey.
Don’t miss out on more updates from the J Smile Studios Patreon! You can get exclusive access to behind-the-scenes insights and live broadcasts. Join our community and transform your caregiving experience with us.
Visit supportpay.com for more information about the app.
Host: J Smiles
Producer: Mia Hall
Editor: Annelise Udoye
#Caregiving
#FamilyCaregiver
#AlzheimersAwareness
#CaregiverSupport
#SupportPay
#FamilyDynamics
#InnovativeSolutions
#CaregiverStories
#CaregivingCommunity
#CaregivingApp
"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDGFb1t2RC_m1yMnFJ2T4jw
Patreon: https://patreon.com/jsmilesstudios
TEXT 'PODCAST" to +1 404 737 1449 - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review!
Ever wondered how a professional caregiver navigates all of the emotional and psychological strains while maintaining a balance? Join me as I connect with Dr. Mitch, an esteemed neuropsychologist and fellow caregiver. In this episode, we shed light on the critical role of neuropsychologists in diagnosing and treating brain disorders. We also delve into the emotional roller-coaster of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's, and how humor and community support can become lifelines.
Dr. Mitch opens up about his dual journey as a neuropsychologist and a son watching his mother grapple with dementia, offering an insider's perspective on the distinctions between clinical psychology and neuropsychology. We discuss the ironies and challenges he faced in his professional and personal life, while highlighting insights from his illuminating book, "Dementia Prevention: Using Your Head to Save Your Brain". This discussion aims to demystify the topic of dementia, providing practical strategies for prevention and a fresh outlook on cognitive health.
Our conversation takes a deeper dive into the signs of dementia and the complexities of normal aging. For those passionate about brain health, this episode offers a blend of heartfelt stories, professional advice, and a touch of humor to help navigate the challenging landscape of aging and dementia. Tune in to discover how small, consistent changes can make a big difference in maintaining cognitive health and preventing dementia.
#CaregivingJourney
#Neuropsychology
#DementiaAwareness
#AlzheimersCare
#BrainHealth
#CaregiverSupport
#ClinicalPsychology
#HumorInCaregiving
#EndAlz
#PreventDementia
"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDGFb1t2RC_m1yMnFJ2T4jw
Patreon: https://patreon.com/jsmilesstudios
TEXT 'PODCAST" to +1 404 737 1449 - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review!
What does it take to transform the caregiving landscape on a global scale?
Join us as we uncover the journey of Jennifer Cain-Berkmose, a trailblazing caregiver who has dedicated several years to revolutionizing care for the elderly. Jennifer's story of passion and resilience aligns with my experiences as a comedian and caregiver, from her roots in the United States to her impactful career making a global impact. Together, we discuss the personal and professional growth that emerges from these shared caregiving experiences, touching on the challenges and the moments of humor that define this vital role.
Explore the emotional landscape of caregiving, as we share anecdotes about managing medical needs and navigating the complexities of chronic illnesses. Jennifer and I delve into her decision to donate her mom's body for research and celebrate the legacies of service and advocacy.
Discover innovative solutions designed to support caregivers, such as the comprehensive services offered by VivaValet.com, a digital platform that helps older adults live independently at home. Learn about the crucial role of humor and sensitivity in caregiving, and how these elements can lighten even the heaviest moments. We also highlight practical tips and resources from Viva Valet to make caregiving more manageable. Tune in for an episode full of valuable insights, heartfelt stories, and practical advice that is sure to resonate with anyone in the caregiving community.
Visit vivavalet.com for more information!
#parkinsonscare
#caregiverjourney
#comedy
#Alzheimersawareness
#endalz
#CaregivingCommunity
#ElderlyCare
#NonprofitWork
#CaregivingTips
#CaregivingStories
#CaregivingSolutions
"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDGFb1t2RC_m1yMnFJ2T4jw
Patreon: https://patreon.com/jsmilesstudios
TEXT 'PODCAST" to +1 404 737 1449 - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review!
When laughter and wisdom intertwine, you find solace on the unpredictable path of caregiving. Join me as I sit down with Jim Cooper, the ex-DJ who spun his caregiving tales into a guidebook full of practical advice. From the early tremors of illness that shook his wife to the enormity of his new role, Jim's path from music to manuscript is as inspiring as it is instructive, offering a beacon of hope for anyone navigating the caregiving seas.
Caregiving is no solo journey, and this episode is a testament to the strength found in togetherness. As laughter provides a momentary escape, the shared stories of good days and bad remind us that the art of caregiving is painted with the broad strokes of flexibility, resilience, and the courage to let go.
In the heart of our discussion, the unsung heroes take center stage—the nurses, friends, and family who underpin the caregiving narrative with their unwavering support. We celebrate the victories, no matter their size, and open up about the profound impact of community during our most challenging moments. From accepting help with grace to the transformative power of hope in the face of adversity, this episode is an invitation to join a conversation that honors every caregiver's silent victories and shared struggles.
#CaregivingJourney
#CaregiverSupport
#EndAlz
#stemcellhealing
#CaregiverStories
#CaregivingCommunity
#CaregivingAdvice
#overcomingcancer
#UnsungHeroes
#Comedypodcast
#CaregivingVictories
#cancerdiagnosis
"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDGFb1t2RC_m1yMnFJ2T4jw
Patreon: https://patreon.com/jsmilesstudios
TEXT 'PODCAST" to +1 404 737 1449 - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review!
Parenting Up! was birthed out of compassion and answering the call from a higher source. In this episode, J dives into who she was before Parenting Up! came to be with show producer, Mia Hall. We hear details of her family legacy in Montgomery, Alabama, her mom's business, her dad's dedication to his father who was killed when he was nine, and his exclusive, extensive collection of game-worn sports memorabilia.
Finding true fulfillment often means breaking free from the mold society casts for us. Watch as J reflects on her journey from a legal career fueled by civil rights activism to the creative realms of engineering and product design, showing how following your passions can lead to profound transformation.
Join us as we delve into life's unexpected twists and turns, celebrating the resilience that shapes our stories and the bonds that hold us together, even in the darkest of times.
Full interview (including Part II) is available on Patreon! Sign up or view it if you are already a member here: patreon.com/jsmilesstudios
#CaregivingJourney #AlzheimersSupport #ComedicTherapy #FamilyLegacy #StrengthInAdversity #Resilienc #LifeChallenges #PersonalGrowthJourney #endalz #howarduniversity #montgomery #stanforduniversity
Host: @jsmilescomedy
Produced by: @MiaHallTV
Edited by: @annelise9152
"Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!"
IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup
FB: https://www.facebook.com/parentingup
YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDGFb1t2RC_m1yMnFJ2T4jw
Patreon: https://patreon.com/jsmilesstudios
TEXT 'PODCAST" to +1 404 737 1449 - to give J topic ideas, feedback, say hi!
Be sure to leave us a review!
The podcast currently has 99 episodes available.
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