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The Caregiver Identity Crisis: Why Naming It Matters with Dr. Barry J. Jacobs
In this episode, we’re joined by the incredible Dr. Barry J. Jacobs, clinical psychologist, author, and former journalist, to explore the essential but often overlooked world of working caregivers. From his early experience caring for a parent to supporting his own mother and stepfather through dementia, Barry brings both deep personal insight and professional expertise to the conversation. Together, we discuss what it means to be a caregiver, the emotional and logistical challenges involved, and how workplaces can better support their caregiving employees.
We also dive into Barry’s newest resource, The AARP Caregiver Answer Book, co-authored with his wife Dr. Julia Mayer. With over 150 questions answered in a straightforward, digestible format, this book is a game changer for anyone navigating the caregiving journey. Whether you're an employer looking to build a more supportive culture or a caregiver searching for guidance, this episode is packed with empathy, wisdom, and practical advice.
Episode Highlights:
[0:00] - Barry on why self-identification as a caregiver matters.
[2:24] - His surprising early career at Rolling Stone magazine.
[3:34] - Barry’s personal caregiving journey and its impact.
[6:24] - Balancing work and caregiving with employer support.
[8:23] - How family experiences shaped his career path.
[10:14] - The #1 question caregivers ask: how do I get help from siblings?
[12:23] - Insights from caregiving cultures in Japan and Singapore.
[14:46] - What inspired The AARP Caregiver Answer Book.
[17:00] - Favorite chapters: sibling dynamics and self-care.
[22:18] - Why spousal caregiving is uniquely challenging.
[24:34] - Barry’s consulting work with Centene and Health Management Associates.
[28:21] - Actionable ways employers can support caregivers.
[31:34] - Advice on setting boundaries at work as a caregiver.
[33:21] - Book launch info and where to connect with Barry online.
Links & Resources:
- The AARP Caregiver Answer Book (Preorder, Guilford Press): Buy Here
- Barry’s Website: www.caregiveranswerbook.com
- Barry’s AARP Self-Help Column: Read Here
- “My Care Recipient’s Doctors Don’t Respect My Boundaries”: Read Article
- The Emotional Survival Guide for Caregivers: Amazon
- AARP Meditations for Caregivers: Amazon
- AARP Love and Meaning After 50: Amazon
- The New Rolling Stone Encyclopedia of Rock & Roll: ThriftBooks
- Dr. Spock's Baby and Child Care: Amazon
- Health Management Associates: Visit Site
- Centene Corporation: Visit Site
- Episode 15 – Being a Caregiver Spouse: Listen Here
- Well Spouse Association:
View all episodes
By Selma Archer & Zack DemopoulosIn this episode, we’re joined by the incredible Dr. Barry J. Jacobs, clinical psychologist, author, and former journalist, to explore the essential but often overlooked world of working caregivers. From his early experience caring for a parent to supporting his own mother and stepfather through dementia, Barry brings both deep personal insight and professional expertise to the conversation. Together, we discuss what it means to be a caregiver, the emotional and logistical challenges involved, and how workplaces can better support their caregiving employees.
We also dive into Barry’s newest resource, The AARP Caregiver Answer Book, co-authored with his wife Dr. Julia Mayer. With over 150 questions answered in a straightforward, digestible format, this book is a game changer for anyone navigating the caregiving journey. Whether you're an employer looking to build a more supportive culture or a caregiver searching for guidance, this episode is packed with empathy, wisdom, and practical advice.
Episode Highlights:
[0:00] - Barry on why self-identification as a caregiver matters.
[2:24] - His surprising early career at Rolling Stone magazine.
[3:34] - Barry’s personal caregiving journey and its impact.
[6:24] - Balancing work and caregiving with employer support.
[8:23] - How family experiences shaped his career path.
[10:14] - The #1 question caregivers ask: how do I get help from siblings?
[12:23] - Insights from caregiving cultures in Japan and Singapore.
[14:46] - What inspired The AARP Caregiver Answer Book.
[17:00] - Favorite chapters: sibling dynamics and self-care.
[22:18] - Why spousal caregiving is uniquely challenging.
[24:34] - Barry’s consulting work with Centene and Health Management Associates.
[28:21] - Actionable ways employers can support caregivers.
[31:34] - Advice on setting boundaries at work as a caregiver.
[33:21] - Book launch info and where to connect with Barry online.
Links & Resources:
- The AARP Caregiver Answer Book (Preorder, Guilford Press): Buy Here
- Barry’s Website: www.caregiveranswerbook.com
- Barry’s AARP Self-Help Column: Read Here
- “My Care Recipient’s Doctors Don’t Respect My Boundaries”: Read Article
- The Emotional Survival Guide for Caregivers: Amazon
- AARP Meditations for Caregivers: Amazon
- AARP Love and Meaning After 50: Amazon
- The New Rolling Stone Encyclopedia of Rock & Roll: ThriftBooks
- Dr. Spock's Baby and Child Care: Amazon
- Health Management Associates: Visit Site
- Centene Corporation: Visit Site
- Episode 15 – Being a Caregiver Spouse: Listen Here
- Well Spouse Association: