In this episode, Karen shares a tender, real conversation for the Caregivers Burnout Queens community—one that starts with a hard feeling: “I feel stupid.” She opens up about what it’s like when words don’t come as easily as they used to. Karen explains that in the past, she could talk a lot and express herself with confidence, but lately she’s noticed moments where she struggles to find the right words. And instead of brushing it off, she’s choosing to name it, explore it, and work through it with compassion.

She talks about finding balance—because caregiving doesn’t just take time, it can take your voice, your energy, and your sense of self. Karen is actively working on how to meet herself where she is right now and keep moving forward, even when things feel slow or frustrating. One of the ways she’s building that forward momentum is through reading again. She shares that she’s starting to read more consistently and genuinely loving the book she’s been getting into. That small shift—one page at a time—has become a reminder that she’s not stuck. She’s healing, adapting, and growing, and she’s looking forward to the journey of feeling better while continuing to show up for her own life, not just everyone else’s.

Karen also reflects on joy. Not the “fake it till you make it” kind of joy, but the kind that requires intention and practice. She shares how she’s making room for the things that bring her joy—and spending more time doing them. And she points out something many caregivers experience but don’t always talk about: when you’re in charge of everyone else’s needs day after day, you can forget what you enjoy. Karen is working on remembering again—bringing her joy back into her awareness and incorporating it into her daily life, even if it starts small. Even if it’s just a little time. Even if it’s not perfectly consistent yet. She’s learning that joy is not something you “get” later—it’s something you protect and return to now.

This conversation was unfortunately cut short due to technical issues, so some parts of the discussion didn’t make it through—especially the moment when Karen and Tami talk about Karen babysitting Tami’s dog and caring for Tami’s home while Tami is away. Karen asks how Tami is feeling about being away and not getting to see her mother every day. Tami shares that she’s working on staying in the moment, using mechanisms that help her ground herself emotionally—and for now, things are going okay.

To close, Tami reminds everyone of a powerful truth: “Joy takes courage.” For caregivers, that isn’t just a quote—it’s a commitment. It means choosing yourself without guilt. It means allowing joy to exist even in the middle of responsibilities. It means facing hard feelings, finding your voice again, and continuing to move forward—together.