The Caretaker's Journey

By Carole Leathem

The Caretaker’s Journey Podcast is a faith-based podcast offering Christian caregiver support, biblical encouragement, and practical help for family caregivers.

Hosted by Carole Leathem, each episod... more

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FAQs about The Caretaker's Journey:

How many episodes does The Caretaker's Journey have?

The podcast currently has 174 episodes available.

The Caretaker's Journey episodes:

January 05, 2025Day 5 - The Challenge of Delegation
Summary:
In this episode of the Caretakers Journey podcast, host Carole Ethem discusses the importance of delegation in caregiving, sharing personal experiences and the struggles of caregiver burnout.
She emphasizes the need to trust family and friends to help share responsibilities and highlights the significance of finding support and community.
Carole also offers a prayer for caregivers, encouraging them to open up to help and take necessary breaks for their well-being.
Takeaways:
Delegation is essential for caregivers to avoid burnout.

Trusting family and friends can alleviate caregiving stress.

Caregiver burnout is a common and serious issue.

It's important to communicate openly about needs.

Finding support groups can provide relief and companionship.

Taking breaks is crucial for mental health.

Caregivers should not feel guilty for seeking help.

Engaging in community activities can improve well-being.

Prayer and spiritual support can be comforting for caregivers.

Self-care is not selfish; it's necessary for effective caregiving.
Chapters:
00:00 The Challenge of Delegation
05:07 Overcoming Caregiver Burnout
06:03 Finding Support and Community
Connect with Carole:
Website - https://www.thecaretakersjourney.com/
To join the mailing list, go to the website and join the community
Social Media -
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/carolesjourney/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/carolesjourney
Book - https://www.carolesjourney.com/book
...more
8min
January 04, 2025Day 4 - Making our Health a Priority
Summary:
In this episode of the Caretakers Journey podcast, Carole Leathem emphasizes the importance of prioritizing health for caretakers.
She shares her personal experiences with health challenges and encourages listeners to make their health a priority by scheduling regular checkups, maintaining a healthy diet, and incorporating exercise into their routines.
Carole also offers practical tips for self-care and invites caretakers to reflect on their health needs.
Takeaways:
Prioritizing health is crucial for caretakers.

Regular checkups should not be postponed.

Making healthy choices is essential for well-being.

Exercise can be integrated into daily routines.

Sleep hygiene plays a significant role in health.

Stress management is important for caretakers.

Healthy eating habits can be developed with effort.

Self-care is not selfish; it's necessary.

Sharing resources can help other caretakers.

Prayer and support can strengthen caretakers' resolve.
"It's all about making choices.

Chapters:
00:00 Prioritizing Health as a Caretaker
02:46 Making Health Choices and Lifestyle Changes
05:05 The Importance of Self-Care for Caretakers

Connect with Carole:
Website - https://www.thecaretakersjourney.com/
To join the mailing list, go to the website and join the community
Social Media -
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/carolesjourney/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/carolesjourney
Book - https://www.carolesjourney.com/book
...more
6min
January 03, 2025Day 3 - Finding Support in Caretaking
Summary:
In this episode of the Caretakers Journey podcast, Carole Leathem emphasizes the importance of seeking support as a caregiver.
She shares personal anecdotes about her journey and encourages listeners to reach out for help, connect with others, and embrace the community around them.
The episode concludes with a heartfelt prayer for caregivers, reminding them that they are not alone in their struggles.
Takeaways:
Seek support and ask for help as a caregiver.

Engaging with others can lead to joy and accomplishment.

Accepting help is a key to success in caregiving.

Community support is vital for caregivers.

There are many resources available for finding help.

Caregivers often feel alone, but they are not.

Prayer can be a source of strength for caregivers.

Connecting with other caregivers can provide encouragement.

It's important to open your heart to receive help.

Finding joy in the caregiving journey is essential.
Finding Support in Caregiving

The Caregiver's Journey: Seeking Help
"I resolve to find support and ask for help."

"Who do you talk to? Who checks on you?"

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Caregiving Support
02:21 The Importance of Seeking Help
04:39 Prayer and Community for Caregivers
Connect with Carole:
Website - https://www.thecaretakersjourney.com/
To join the mailing list, go to the website and join the community
Social Media -
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/carolesjourney/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/carolesjourney
Book - https://www.carolesjourney.com/book
...more
7min
January 02, 2025Day 2 - The Power of Saying "NO"
Summary:
In this episode of the Caretakers Journey podcast, host Carole Leathem discusses the importance of setting boundaries, particularly for caregivers.
She introduces a practical method using Post-It notes to help listeners identify what to stop, pause, or start in their lives.
Carole emphasizes the challenges of saying no, especially in the context of technology and social media, and encourages listeners to reflect on their own boundaries.
The episode concludes with a prayer for caregivers navigating their journeys.
Takeaways:
Setting boundaries is essential for caregivers.

Saying no can be difficult, especially to family.

Technology and social media can drain our energy.

Using Post-It notes can help visualize boundaries.

Red notes signify things to stop, yellow to pause, and green to start.

It's important to track what you stop and start doing.

Reflecting on boundaries can lead to personal growth.

Caregivers often feel overwhelmed and need support.

Prayer can be a source of strength for caregivers.

Sharing resources can help others in their caregiving journey.
Setting Boundaries for Caregivers

The Power of Saying No
"Oh, no is a hard word."

"We need to say no to technology."

"I want to share something with you."

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Setting Boundaries
00:30 The Challenge of Saying No
01:29 The Post-It Note Method for Boundaries
03:24 Tracking Your Boundaries
04:19 Closing Thoughts and Prayer
Connect with Carole:
Website - https://www.thecaretakersjourney.com/
To join the mailing list, go to the website and join the community
Social Media -
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/carolesjourney/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/carolesjourney
Book - https://www.carolesjourney.com/book
...more
7min
January 01, 2025Day 1 - Practice Self-Care
Summary:
In this bonus episode, Carole Leathem introduces the Caretakers 31 Day Resolve Challenge, focusing on the importance of self-care for caregivers.
She shares personal experiences and practical tips for carving out 15 minutes a day for self-care activities, emphasizing the need for emotional resets.
The episode concludes with a prayer for caregivers and encouragement to prioritize self-care in the new year.
Takeaways:
Practice self-care daily to reset your mind.

Carve out 15 minutes for yourself each day.

Solitude and quiet time can help reduce stress.

Engaging with nature is a powerful reset.

Reading and meditation are effective self-care activities.

It's important to acknowledge your own needs as a caregiver.

A reminder note can help you prioritize self-care.

Prayer and reflection can enhance emotional well-being.

Finding joy in small moments is essential for caregivers.

Sharing resources can support fellow caregivers.
"I resolve to practice self-care."

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to the Caretakers 31 Day Resolve Challenge
02:14 The Importance of Self-Care for Caregivers
05:50 Closing Thoughts and Prayer for Caregivers
Connect with Carole:
Website - https://www.thecaretakersjourney.com/
To join the mailing list go to the website and join the community.
Social Media -
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/carolesjourney/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/carolesjourney
Book - https://www.carolesjourney.com/book
...more
8min
January 01, 2025A Year in Review with Rebecca George
Summary:
In this episode, Carole Leathem and Rebecca George celebrate the first anniversary of the Caretakers Journey podcast.
They reflect on the past year, discussing the growth and learning that has occurred, the challenges faced by caregivers, and the importance of community and connection.
They also look ahead to new initiatives, including a 31-day caretakers resolve and the launch of Rebecca's new book, 'You're Not Too Late: Trusting God's Timing in a Hurry Up World.'
The conversation emphasizes the need for support and understanding among caregivers, encouraging listeners to reach out and connect.
Takeaways:
The podcast has grown significantly over the past year.

Caregivers often feel isolated and alone in their journeys.

Community and connection are vital for caregivers.

Joy is a choice that caregivers can actively pursue.

The importance of sharing experiences and challenges with others.

Caregivers often experience burnout without realizing it.

There are millions of caregivers who need support and understanding.

New initiatives are being launched to support caregivers.

Rebecca's new book addresses themes of timing and hope.

The podcast aims to educate others about the realities of caregiving.
Celebrating a Year of Caretaking Conversations

Reflections on Growth and Learning
"Joy is a choice."

"There is such a need here."

"I love it. I'm so excited for you."
Chapters:
00:00 Celebrating a Year of Caretaking Conversations
03:00 Reflections on Lessons Learned
06:03 Challenges Faced by Caregivers
09:00 The Importance of Community
12:11 Looking Ahead: Season Two and New Initiatives
14:58 Rebecca's Upcoming Book and Its Impact
18:03 Global Caregiving: A Growing Need
21:00 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations
Connect with Rebecca:
Website:
https://www.radicalradiance.live/
https://www.nottoolatebook.live/
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/rebeccageorgeauthor
NEW Book: https://www.amazon.com/Youre-Not-Too-Late-Trusting/dp/0830784373
Podcast: https://www.radicalradiance.live/podcast
Connect with Carole:
Website - https://www.thecaretakersjourney.com/
To join the mailing list, go to the website and join the community
Social Media -
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/carolesjourney/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/carolesjourney
Book - https://www.carolesjourney.com/book
...more
28min
December 31, 2024 Introduction - 31 Day Resolve Challenge
Chapters: (00:10.594)
Tomorrow is January 1st, 2025. And for most people, the start of a new month and especially a new year might bring excitement. They might feel challenged. They're going to start a new Bible reading program, a new diet, a new exercise program. I know people who are even starting a new job.

Carole (00:28.472)
But for the 55 million caretakers in the US, it might bring a hard reminder that we are still in the daily grind of caring. Some of us have been at it for years with no change in sight. For others, it's a new journey that they're gonna start having to navigate. Caretakers, hear me when I say there is nothing magical about the new day, a new year, a new month. For us, the challenge is to live moment by moment.

Carole (00:57.592)
for each moment brings something different and the challenges of caretaking continue. We must choose in each of these moments how we're going to respond. And we can choose joy, even when the chaos and the pressure of our caretaking journey is still ongoing. I've never been a big fan of making New Year's resolutions and researching the origins of New Year's resolutions. I found out that this idea

Carole (01:26.528)
of making a New Year's resolution started more than 4,000 years ago. This is nothing new. This is something that's been going on for decades and thousands of years. But they were called resolves. The people would write out the words saying, I resolve to dot dot dot, basically trying to do something different, make a decision, make a change.

Carole (01:50.21)
When I looked up the word resolved, I found out that it means to find a solution and decide firmly on a course of action. I realized that I had been making resolves on my caretaking journey for the past 10 years. starting tomorrow, January 1st, and each day for the next 31 days, I'm going to share with you some of the things that I've learned along my caretaking journey.

Carole (02:15.99)
and each day a resolve that I'm going to try to implement in this next year. I'm going to pray for you as a caretaker along your journey as well. I'm going to share them as a daily bonus episode to the Caretakers Journey podcast. There'll still be an episode that will drop every week. In fact, the first one of season two is going to drop tomorrow on January 1st. I'm going to challenge you to take the resolve

Carole (02:45.226)
Write it on a Post-It note where you can see it and try to make that change in your life over the coming year. If you know a caretaker, share the link with them so that they can join us on this 31 days of making resolves to live our lives as caretakers in a more healthy and a more productive way. I'm going to be praying for you as you listen. I hope that you're going to find insight, encouragement and inspiration for your own journey. Happy New Year's Eve.
Website - https://www.thecaretakersjourney.com/
To Join the mailing list go to the website and join the community.
Social Media -
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/carolesjourney/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/carolesjourney
Book - https://www.carolesjourney.com/book

...more
4min
December 27, 2024Navigating the Journey & Finding Balance
Summary:
In this episode of the Caretakers Journey podcast, host Carole Leathem speaks with Rayna Neises, a certified coach and author of 'No Regrets'.
They discuss the challenges and rewards of caregiving, particularly in the context of caring for aging parents with Alzheimer's.
Rayna shares her personal journey, the inspiration behind her book, and the importance of understanding both care needs and core needs of loved ones.
The conversation also delves into the significance of advocacy, finding balance, and the role of coaching in navigating the complexities of caregiving.
Self-care strategies are emphasized as essential for caregivers to maintain their well-being while supporting their loved ones.
Takeaways:
Rayna's journey as a caregiver inspired her to write 'No Regrets'.

Understanding core needs is as important as addressing care needs.

Advocacy is a crucial role for family caregivers.

Balance in caregiving involves recognizing all aspects of life.

Coaching can help caregivers find clarity and direction.

Self-care practices must be personalized and adaptable.

Caregivers often feel isolated and need community support.
Routine and structure can enhance self-care for caregivers.
Navigating the Caregiver's Journey with Rayna Neises

Finding Balance in Caregiving: Insights from Rayna Neises
"Caregiving is a difficult dance."

"Coaching helps you get unstuck."

"Self-care is not one-size-fits-all."

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Caregiving and Raina's Journey
02:01 The Inspiration Behind 'No Regrets'
04:49 Understanding Care Needs vs. Core Needs
09:54 The Importance of Advocacy in Caregiving
13:03 Navigating Balance as a Caregiver
19:04 The Role of Coaching in Caregiving
25:05 Self-Care Strategies for Caregivers
Connect with Rayna:
Website:
https://raynaneises.com/
https://www.aseasonofcaring.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raynaneises/
Podcast: https://www.aseasonofcaring.com/podcast/

Connect with Carole:
Website - https://www.thecaretakersjourney.com/
Social Media -
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/carolesjourney/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/carolesjourney
Book - https://www.carolesjourney.com/book
...more
33min
December 20, 2024The Unexpected Journey, Raising a Special Needs Child
Summary
In this episode of the Caretakers Journey podcast, host Carole Leathem speaks with Rachel Earp, a beloved author and podcaster, about her journey as a mother, particularly raising a child with special needs.
Rachel shares her experiences of joy and challenges, the importance of community, and how she balances her roles as a mother, entrepreneur, and wife.
The conversation emphasizes the significance of faith, encouragement, and finding support in the caretaking journey.
In this conversation, Rachel Earp and Carole discuss the complexities of life, the importance of embracing different seasons, and the journey of podcasting.
They explore the power of storytelling in connecting with others, the significance of self-care for caregivers, and the hope that exists even in challenging times.
Rachel shares insights from her own experiences and her new podcast, emphasizing the need for community and understanding among caregivers.
Takeaways
Rachel prioritizes being a wife and mother above all.

The unexpected journey of raising a child with Down syndrome can be a blessing.

Community is essential for caretakers to avoid feelings of isolation.

Finding joy amidst the challenges of parenting is crucial.

It's important to give yourself grace and not strive for perfection.
The journey of caretaking is filled with ups and downs.

Support from family and community can make a significant difference.
Life's challenges often require us to adapt and find new ways to cope. Life is filled with ups and downs, and it's important to embrace all seasons.
Releasing expectations can lead to peace in difficult moments.
Caregivers often feel alone, but they are not.

Hope exists as long as there is breath in our bodies.

Quiet moments can lead to significant personal insights.

Self-care is essential for caregivers to maintain their well-being.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Rachel Earp and Her Mission
05:14 The Journey of Motherhood and Special Needs Parenting
12:01 Finding Joy Amidst Challenges
18:11 The Importance of Community in Caretaking
25:36 The Journey of Podcasting
32:05 Finding Hope in Caregiving
38:14 Connecting with Rachel Earp
Connect with Rachel:
Website: https://rachelearp.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/racheree/
Connect with Carole:
Website - https://www.thecaretakersjourney.com/
Social Media -
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/carolesjourney/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/carolesjourney
Book - https://www.carolesjourney.com/book
...more
42min
December 13, 2024Finding Joy in Caretaking
Summary
In this episode of the Caretakers Journey podcast, host Carole Leathem speaks with Asheritah CiuCiu, an author and speaker, about her journey of finding joy in caregiving and the significance of Advent.
Asheritah shares her experiences growing up as a missionary child, the creation of her books, including a children's version of her Advent devotional, and her new book 'Delighting in Jesus.'
They discuss the challenges caregivers face, the importance of self-care, and how to overcome guilt in spiritual practices. Asheritah emphasizes the need for joy in the Christmas season and the beauty of sharing Jesus' story with the next generation.t
Takeaways
Advent is an ancient practice that prepares hearts for celebration.

Creating new traditions can help caregivers find joy during the holidays.

The children's book aims to introduce Jesus' names in an approachable way.

True joy is found in Jesus, even amidst burnout.

Delighting in Jesus involves leaning into Him during difficult times.

Spiritual disciplines should not be a source of guilt or shame.

God invites us into a relationship of delight, not performance.

Caregivers need to prioritize self-care to sustain their journey.

The voice of guilt is not from God but from the accuser.

Sharing personal Jesus stories can strengthen faith in the next generation.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Asheritah CiuCiu and Her Journey
03:04 Understanding Advent: Its Significance and Personal Impact
05:48 Creating New Traditions: The Children's Book Experience
09:00 Delighting in Jesus: The New Book and Its Purpose
11:49 Finding Joy in Caregiving: Insights and Reflections
14:57 Overcoming Guilt in Spiritual Practices
17:59 Self-Care for Caregivers: Practical Steps and Encouragement
...more
31min

FAQs about The Caretaker's Journey:

How many episodes does The Caretaker's Journey have?

The podcast currently has 174 episodes available.

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