Send Cathy a text:)

What happens when caregiving becomes too much? The tragic story of Gene Hackman and wife, Betsy serves as a powerful wake-up call for all of us who care for loved ones. Caregiving often appears as an act of pure love and dedication, but behind closed doors, many caregivers struggle with exhaustion, isolation, and overwhelming responsibility that can lead to crisis.

This deeply personal episode explores the hidden emotional toll of caregiving and provides a framework for recognizing when you're approaching your breaking point. Through candid conversation and thoughtful questions, Cathy guides you through an emotional check-in process: How are you really feeling? Are you constantly exhausted? When was the last time you experienced joy? These simple yet profound questions can help identify burnout before it consumes you.

The episode doesn't just highlight problems—it offers practical solutions for building support systems before reaching crisis. From creative ways to enlist help from neighbors and friends to exploring professional resources like respite care, Cathy shares strategies that have worked in her own challenging caregiving journey. She emphasizes that asking for help isn't a sign of weakness but rather an essential survival skill for sustainable caregiving.

Whether you're caring for a spouse with a chronic illness, an aging parent, or a child with special needs, this conversation will help you recognize when "doing it all" becomes dangerous. More importantly, it reminds you that you deserve support and care too. If you're feeling overwhelmed, don't keep it inside—there are people who can and want to help. And if you know a caregiver, check in with them, offer specific assistance, and be part of their essential support network. Your small gesture might be exactly what they need to keep their cup from emptying completely.

Support the show

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

• Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT

Send Cathy a text:)

Caregiving is an endlessly demanding role, often leading to burnout and stress. Yet, amidst these challenges, there's a transformative practice that can change everything—the 10-10 method. This episode introduces caregivers to the concept of dedicating just 10% of their mornings and evenings to self-care. By carving out these small blocks of time, caregivers can recharge, reflect, and prepare for the day ahead. 

As we explore personal stories and community feedback, we highlight how incorporating simple self-care strategies can positively affect not only your well-being, but also the quality of care you provide. The 10-10 method is customizable—emphasizing the importance of adapting the practice to fit individual needs and lifestyles. We encourage caregivers to engage with one another, share their experiences, and ultimately reclaim their energy and joy in caregiving.

Join us as we unpack the powerful takeaways of the 10-10 method, offering insights and practical tips to empower caregivers to thrive rather than merely survive. Don't forget to subscribe and share your thoughts with us—how will you make your 10 minutes count?

Support the show

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

• Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT

Send Cathy a text:)

After years of caregiving on high drive, I finally took a break—and it was harder than I expected. Slowing down felt foreign, and for the first time, I realized how much I had been running on stress and urgency. In this episode, I’m sharing my personal journey of stepping back, finding clarity, and learning to balance my well-being with caregiving.

Can you take a break without feeling guilty? Can you live a day without being "on edge"? Let’s talk about the importance of true respite time—why it’s essential, how it brings clarity, and how you can integrate small, meaningful changes to prioritize both your loved one and yourself.

Plus, I’m back with a fresh perspective on the podcast, my business, and what’s next for this incredible community. Tune in for an honest conversation about resetting, realigning, and embracing a new rhythm in caregiving. 💛

🔗 Join my email list for weekly updates! 

Support the show

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

• Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT

Send Cathy a text:)

In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain and sharing some personal updates on Denis’ treatment journey—including the challenges, frustrations, and lessons learned along the way. From navigating the maze of health insurance approvals to advocating for timely care, I’m diving into the reality of what it takes to ensure our loved ones get the treatment they need. If you’ve ever felt stuck in red tape or frustrated by delays, this episode is for you. Tune in for real talk, advocacy insights, and a reminder that persistence is our greatest tool as caregivers. 💛

Support the show

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

• Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT

Send Cathy a text:)

In this deeply personal episode of The Caregiver Cup Podcast, I share a heartfelt announcement about pausing the podcast and my services to focus on what matters most—caring for my beloved spouse, Denis, as he battles aggressive cancer. Inspired by Hoda Kotb’s Where We Belong, I reflect on the challenges and emotional journey of caregiving, the importance of self-care, and setting healthy boundaries. Join me as I open up about the tough decisions and soul searching that led to this pause, and offer a message of hope and encouragement to fellow caregivers navigating their own paths. Thank you for your unwavering support and understanding during this time. 💛

Support the show

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

• Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT

Send Cathy a text:)

We’ve all heard the saying, “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” But what if the lemons never stop falling? In this episode, we tackle the relentless challenges of caregiving—constant medical appointments, emotional strain, and the physical toll of caregiving. Drawing from personal stories and insights, we’ll share how to build resilience and find small moments of joy, even in the face of uncertainty and exhaustion.

You’ll learn Practical Steps to Navigate THIS SEASON, including:

• Recognizing when you’re overwhelmed and finding ways to recharge.
• Leaning into mindfulness practices to center your thoughts.
• Adjusting and refining coping strategies that may need updating.
• Finding small, meaningful moments of joy each day.
• Establishing a support system to help lighten your load.

Caregiving may be relentless, but by building resilience and focusing on what you can control, you can find strength to keep going—and even rediscover happiness along the way.

Support the show

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

• Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT

Send Cathy a text:)

Ever felt like a cluttered closet could throw off your entire day? I certainly have, and in this episode, I share my journey from chaos to clarity by tackling the messes in my life—starting with that very closet. We explore how disorganization can stir up stress and guilt, especially for those of us juggling caregiving, work, and household responsibilities. By sharing personal insights, I aim to shed light on how a bit of tidying up can transform not just our spaces, but also our emotional landscape.

Caregivers, this one's for you. We dive deep into the emotional whirlwind that comes with managing multiple roles without a plan. From my own experiences, I discuss practical strategies to keep everything in check, from decluttering to setting daily routines. It’s all about finding simple yet effective ways to bring order to your life, enabling you to focus on what matters most—providing compassionate care without losing sight of your own well-being. The goal is to empower you with tools to reduce stress and enhance satisfaction in your caregiving journey.

Technology and self-care take the spotlight as we wrap up the episode. Managing medications and appointments becomes a breeze with digital tools, while self-care routines act as a much-needed balm for the soul. I discuss how technology can streamline caregiving tasks, and why taking time for yourself is not just a luxury, but a necessity. Together, we explore how embracing organization and self-care can lead to personal growth and a more balanced, fulfilling life. Tune in to learn how you can incorporate these insights into your daily routine, making each day a little brighter and more manageable.

Support the show

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

• Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT

Send Cathy a text:)

Understanding the importance of self-reflection is crucial for caregivers navigating their responsibilities. In this episode, we discuss six essential questions that can help caregivers prioritize self-care, manage stress, and create effective contingency plans while fostering gratitude.

• The necessity of prioritizing self-care for overall well-being
• Being realistic about what responsibilities one can manage effectively
• Understanding underlying challenges and addressing them
• Finding effective strategies for stress management
• Importance of having a backup plan for caregiving situations
• Practicing gratitude as a powerful tool to stay grounded

Your feedback not only helps but also inspires others who are navigating this same journey. Get all the questions in this week's blog.

Support the show

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

• Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT

Send Cathy a text:)

This episode focuses on the reflections and resolutions caregivers can embrace as they transition into the New Year. The host shares personal experiences, practical strategies, and the importance of self-care to cultivate energy and resilience moving into 2025. 

• Reflecting on personal experiences during the New Year as a caregiver 
• Creating new traditions and finding contentment in quiet moments 
• Recognizing personal victories and challenges in caregiving 
• Utilizing journaling as a tool for reflection and self-discovery 
• The significance of self-care in nourishing the caregiver's spirit 
• Choosing a focus word for the year to guide intentions 
• Developing actionable strategies for maintaining personal energy 
• Emphasizing community support among caregivers 

Prioritize self-care, set boundaries, and lean on your support systems. Reflect on your victories, no matter how small, and acknowledge the challenges you've overcome.

Support the show

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

• Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT

Send Cathy a text:)

Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the house, the caregivers were stirring, with duties to rouse. Join me, Cathy, on this heartwarming Christmas Eve edition of the Caregiver Cup Podcast as we celebrate the unsung heroes who give their all every day. Through a heartfelt twist on the classic "Twas the Night Before Christmas," I pay tribute to your spirit, dedication, and the warmth you bring to the world. Whether you’re sipping cocoa by the fire or stealing a quiet moment amidst the holiday hustle, remember to take a little time for yourself, because you deserve it.

As we reflect on the past year and look forward to 2025, I’m filled with hope and excitement for what's to come. Whether or not your loved ones show their appreciation, please know that you are deeply valued. The Caregiver Cup Podcast will continue to support you, tackling the challenges we face together in new episodes starting January. So, stay warm, stay joyful, and relish in the special bond we share. From my heart to yours, have a very Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and a joyful New Year. Until next week, dear friend, cherish the joy and love you bring to others.

Support the show

Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

• Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT