Let’s be honest—when you’re a caregiver, sleep feels like a luxury you can’t afford. But after my conversation with Dr. Lucinda Sykes, I see how crucial real rest is, not just for our energy, but for our long-term health. Lucinda pulls back the curtain on the myths around sleeping pills and reveals the eye-opening science behind why they may actually harm more than help. She reminds us that good sleep isn’t indulgent—it’s essential. And there are natural, science-backed ways to reclaim it. If you’re burning the candle at both ends, it’s time to hit pause, respect your own rhythm, and protect your brain, your heart, and your future—starting tonight.

About Our Guest: 

Lucinda Sykes MD is a retired Canadian doctor and a longtime teacher of mindfulness. Beginning in 1997, she directed Meditation for Health clinic in Toronto, teaching medical programs of MBSR (mindfulness-based stress reduction). More than 6000 patients attended the clinic, referred for help with the many medical conditions worsened by stress. Since retiring from medical practice, Lucinda continues to speak publicly about medicine’s over-prescription of sleeping pills. Women 50+ are at special risk.

Social Media Links:

• Lucindasykesmd.com
• Gift link:   See below the link to download 'Happy Sleep Secrets’, a 24-page pdf of basic sleep self-care for Women 50+. (Lifestyle tips that make it easier for the body to provide restorative sleep).
• https://www.happysleepsecrets.com/
• Facebook https://www.facebook.com/joyfulafter50/

About Me:

I have cared for many family members across the life span, experiencing the joys and challenges of child-rearing, the poignance of caring for parents, friends, and elder partners. I realized that I could not handle the stress of family caregiving 24/7/365. It was time for a new approach to caring. My health and happiness were slipping away. This is how Think to Thrive for Caregivers evolved. Let your mind meet your heart so you don’t lose track of your life.

Connect with Me:

https://www.deborahgreenhut.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahgreenhut01/

Find my books here

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. 

You can’t pour from an empty cup—and you definitely can’t raise confident kids if you’re running on fumes. Talking with Francine Juhlin lit me up with the reminder that self-care and storytelling are powerful tools, not just for adults, but for the kids in our lives too. Francine’s journey from military squad leader to children's author and holistic coach proves how empathy, structure, and fun can transform how we support the next generation. She shows us how to turn caregiving chaos into connection by including kids in the process, building self-esteem early, and giving ourselves permission to refill our own cups first.

About Our Guest: 

Francine Juhlin, also known as Princess Francy, is a transformational leader, author, and speaker with a passion for empowering others. A retired aircraft electrician in the Military, she now focuses on inspiring children and adults alike. Through her book Sparklefeathers and Princess Francy: The Magic Library and interactive programs, she helps kids build confidence and embrace their uniqueness. Francine is dedicated to creating a world where everyone can discover their true potential.

Social Media Links:

https://personalchangewarriors.com/   (Make sure to sign up for the newsletter!)

https://www.linkedin.com/in/francine-juhlin-b9839578/

About Me:

I have cared for many family members across the life span, experiencing the joys and challenges of child-rearing, the poignance of caring for parents, friends, and elder partners. I realized that I could not handle the stress of family caregiving 24/7/365. It was time for a new approach to caring. My health and happiness were slipping away. This is how Think to Thrive for Caregivers evolved. Let your mind meet your heart so you don’t lose track of your life.

Connect with Me:

https://www.deborahgreenhut.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahgreenhut01/

Find my books here

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. 

Sometimes life throws you so many changes at once, you wonder who you are anymore. Talking with Mardi Winder-Adams reminded me just how often caregiving, grief, and major transitions like divorce pile up—and how vital it is to give yourself grace while sorting it all out. Mardi, a divorce coach who’s walked the caregiving road herself, helps people rediscover who they want to be after the roles they thought would define their future shift overnight. Whether you’re navigating Gray Divorce, caregiving exhaustion, or just trying to remember your own name in all the chaos, Mardi shows there is a path forward—and it starts with support and self-discovery.

About Our Guest: 

Mardi Winder-Adams is the go-to divorce coach for high-achieving individuals. She is dedicated to supporting people in taking control of their separation and divorce to reduce the emotional and financial costs of the process. Mardi offers over 20 years of experience helping women and men navigate the challenges of high-conflict, complex, and high-asset divorces. Mardi is an ICF and BCC Executive and Leadership Coach, Certified Divorce Transition and High-Conflict Divorce Coach, and Credentialed Distinguished Mediator in Texas.

She founded Positive Communication Systems, LLC, and hosts the podcast “The D Shift, Redefining Divorce and Beyond” and Real Divorce Talks. Mardi is also a best-selling author, speaker, and trainer.

Social Media Links:

• Website: https://www.divorcecoach4women.com/
• Podcast: The D Shift: Redefining Divorce and Beyond
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mardiwinderadams/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divorcecoach4women/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Divorcecoach4women
• Facebook personal: https://www.facebook.com/mardi.winderadams
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCM7WXHijvXwsM1XXkc79MlA

About Me:

I have cared for many family members across the life span, experiencing the joys and challenges of child-rearing, the poignance of caring for parents, friends, and elder partners. I realized that I could not handle the stress of family caregiving 24/7/365. It was time for a new approach to caring. My health and happiness were slipping away. This is how Think to Thrive for Caregivers evolved. Let your mind meet your heart so you don’t lose track of your life.

Connect with Me:

https://www.deborahgreenhut.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahgreenhut01/

Find my books here

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. 

You don't have to follow someone else’s definition of success to create a life that lights you up. Sitting down with Dr. Michelle Montero reminded me of the power in honoring your personal values—especially when the world expects you to hustle nonstop. Michelle’s journey from academia to entrepreneurship shows what happens when you stop living in survival mode and start trusting yourself deeply. We talked about mindset shifts, the weight of invisible expectations, and how choosing joy can be one of the most radical things you do. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a life that looks “right” but doesn’t feel right—this one’s for you.

About Our Guest: 

Dr. Michelle Montero, a licensed clinical psychologist and sports psychology consultant is dedicated to helping individuals, teams, and organizations unlock their full potential.Whether you're an athlete navigating career transitions, a professional striving for resilience, or someone seeking personal transformation, I’m here to guide you. 

Social Media Links:

• Website: www.alchemyperformanceconsulting.com
• LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-michelle-montero-a9027810/

About Me:

I have cared for many family members across the life span, experiencing the joys and challenges of child-rearing, the poignance of caring for parents, friends, and elder partners. I realized that I could not handle the stress of family caregiving 24/7/365. It was time for a new approach to caring. My health and happiness were slipping away. This is how Think to Thrive for Caregivers evolved. Let your mind meet your heart so you don’t lose track of your life.

Connect with Me:

https://www.deborahgreenhut.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahgreenhut01/

Find my books here

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. 

Joy isn't just a feeling—it’s a choice. Bonita Joy Yoder, a recovering attorney turned ventriloquist and humor expert, shares how laughter, play, and a shift in mindset create powerful healing. Through her puppets and her work in humor therapy, she shows that embracing joy—especially in tough times can be life-changing. Whether it’s using humor to navigate caregiving, shifting from adversarial thinking, or finding light in the darkest moments, Bonita reminds us that laughter releases endorphins, builds resilience, and helps us connect with others. Joy isn’t just a moment; it’s a way of life.

About Our Guest: 

As a recovering attorney who now speaks, trains and emcees, Bonita Joy is known as "The Humor Strategist." She brings humor to presentations through ventriloquism and puppet friends.  Bonita Joy is an author of the forthcoming book "Tickle Their Funny Bone: Use Humor to Polish Your Presentations." Her mission is to share her middle name—Joy—with the world, helping others remember joy in their daily lives, work and relationships.

For a free Humor Journal go to https://joy.funandfunnier.com

Contact Bonita Joy at (785) 550-4944.

Social Media Links:

• https://joy.funandfunnier.com
• Website:  https://www.bonitajoyyoder.com
• Linkedin:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/bonitajoy/
• Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/iambonitajoy/
• Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/user/bonitayoder/
• Tiktok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@thebonitajoy
• X:      https://twitter.com/iambonitajoy

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bonita.yoder.5

About Me:

I have cared for many family members across the life span, experiencing the joys and challenges of child-rearing, the poignance of caring for parents, friends, and elder partners. I realized that I could not handle the stress of family caregiving 24/7/365. It was time for a new approach to caring. My health and happiness were slipping away. This is how Think to Thrive for Caregivers evolved. Let your mind meet your heart so you don’t lose track of your life.

Connect with Me:

https://www.deborahgreenhut.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahgreenhut01/

Find my books here

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. 

Life is all about adaptation, whether in cybersecurity, parenting, or caregiving. Kelvin Green, a cybersecurity advisor and father, shares how understanding human behavior—at work and at home—makes all the difference. He emphasizes empathy, adaptability, and finding joy in the journey. Whether navigating family dynamics, embracing change, or securing the digital world, Kelvin reminds us that life is a game we’re all playing. The key? Stay flexible, learn from the challenges, and don’t forget to enjoy every piece of the cake along the way.

About Our Guest: 

Kelvin Green brings over 20 years of IT and cybersecurity expertise, encompassing diverse roles including a game tester for Tetris.

Also, as a passionate Mental Health Advocate, Kelvin draws from his personal experiences and deep understanding of User and Entity Behavioral Analytics to bridge the gap between technology and human behavior. His mission is to empower individuals to better understand themselves, foster joy, and enhance security in an increasingly complex digital landscape.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelvincgreen/ 

About Me:

I have cared for many family members across the life span, experiencing the joys and challenges of child-rearing, the poignance of caring for parents, friends, and elder partners. I realized that I could not handle the stress of family caregiving 24/7/365. It was time for a new approach to caring. My health and happiness were slipping away. This is how Think to Thrive for Caregivers evolved. Let your mind meet your heart so you don’t lose track of your life.

Connect with Me:

https://www.deborahgreenhut.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahgreenhut01/

Find my books here

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. 

Caregiving can feel like a heavy journey, but it’s also a path filled with love, learning, and connection. Today, I’m joined by Brenda Marie Sheldrake, who shares her deeply personal story of caring for her father during his final years. Brenda’s experience reminds us that even when we face tough decisions, we can approach them with empathy and respect for our loved ones. She offers insightful advice on how to balance the need for help with preserving dignity, and how to create meaningful memories along the way. If you're navigating similar challenges, Brenda encourages you not to do it alone—reach out for support, and know that you’re not the only one walking this path.

About Our Guest: 

Brenda Marie Sheldrake, an award-winning entrepreneur and best-selling author, empowers entrepreneurs through community, coaching, and courses. With 13 years in community health, she led anti-oppression training and inclusivity initiatives. A 2022 Woman of Worth honoree, Brenda believes, “Relationship building creates lasting leads and clients.” Her mantra: “Don’t quit—your dreams will materialize.” She’s dedicated to fostering connections and entrepreneurial success.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brenda-marie-sheldrake/

About Me:

I have cared for many family members across the life span, experiencing the joys and challenges of child-rearing, the poignance of caring for parents, friends, and elder partners. I realized that I could not handle the stress of family caregiving 24/7/365. It was time for a new approach to caring. My health and happiness were slipping away. This is how Think to Thrive for Caregivers evolved. Let your mind meet your heart so you don’t lose track of your life.

Connect with Me:

https://www.deborahgreenhut.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahgreenhut01/

Find my books here

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

Caregiving isn’t a race—it’s about staying present through every challenge. Talking with Jessica Soodeen, I saw how situational awareness, preparation, and resilience shaped her journey caring for her mother. She shares how staying organized eased the chaos, but also opens up about the emotional toll—PTSD, identity loss, and finding purpose after caregiving ends. Her message is clear: take control where you can, be kind to yourself when you can’t, and never underestimate the power of showing up for the people you love.

About Our Guest: 

Jessica Soodeen is no stranger to challenges and faces them head-on! Throughout her personal life and career, she has pushed boundaries and broken barriers. Whether on stage speaking to hundreds, at a racetrack, or an office setting, Jessica has a unique ability to make everyone she encounters feel seen and heard. Her energy, filled with curiosity and wonder, is contagious. Her first career as a mechanical design engineer took her around the world, and her adventurous spirit led her to a new challenge: earning a Master’s degree in Motorsport Race Engineering. This pivot, born from her passion for road racing motorcycles, a hobby she picked up later in life, opened new avenues for her. Jessica has worked as a track-side engineer and driver coach, fully immersing herself in the world of motorsports. She even built her own motors in her living room, pulled wrenches for other teams, and immediately began coaching others on mindset. Now, Jessica uses all these experiences to deliver dynamic keynote speeches that teach emotional and social intelligence lessons uniquely using motorsports analogies. She also facilitates Relational Skills workshops that bring teams together, focusing on problem solving, conflict resolution through civil communication skills, and decision making processes. You can find Jessica Soodeen on LinkedIn for your next AGM, Professional Association Conference, STEM day, or Retreat!

Social Media Links https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-soodeen-rr74/ 

Instagram - @thejessicasoodeen

About Me:

I have cared for many family members across the life span, experiencing the joys and challenges of child-rearing, the poignance of caring for parents, friends, and elder partners. I realized that I could not handle the stress of family caregiving 24/7/365. It was time for a new approach to caring. My health and happiness were slipping away. This is how Think to Thrive for Caregivers evolved. Let your mind meet your heart so you don’t lose track of your life.

Connect with Me:

https://www.deborahgreenhut.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahgreenhut01/

Find my books here

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. 

Every conversation with a child has the power to shape their confidence, communication skills, and emotional growth. I sat down with Dinalynn Rosenbush to explore effective parenting strategies that help children thrive. We dive into how parents can improve communication with kids, foster deeper connections, and create learning opportunities through everyday conversations. Whether it's building trust, boosting self-esteem, or encouraging speech development, Dinalynn shares powerful yet simple ways to make a lasting impact on your child’s future.

FREE GIFT:  5 Ways To Get Kids To Listen Better:   https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/7ca5ce43-d436ea91

About Our Guest: 

Dinalynn Rosenbush is a Consultant and Parenting Coach, Speaker, 30-year public school Speech Language Pathologist, international best-selling Author, and Creator/Host of the Top 1.5% podcast: The Language of Play. Dinalynn helps parents understand how children communicate so they can connect more deeply with their children, even in the presence of speech delays. She empowers parents with strategies for building speech and language skills during normal daily activities.

Links:

[email protected]

Podcast: The Language of Play - Kids that Listen, Speech Therapy, Language Development, Early Intervention Podcast - Apple Podcasts

THE LANGUAGE OF PLAY:  126 Your Child Has Imaginary Friends? Deborah Greenhut Tells A Parent’s Story To Use These Friends For Healing And Learning

126 Your Child Has Imaginary Friends? Deborah Greenhut Tells A Parent’s Story To Using These Friends For Healing And Learning

About Me:

I have cared for many family members across the life span, experiencing the joys and challenges of child-rearing, the poignance of caring for parents, friends, and elder partners. I realized that I could not handle the stress of family caregiving 24/7/365. It was time for a new approach to caring. My health and happiness were slipping away. This is how Think to Thrive for Caregivers evolved. Let your mind meet your heart so you don’t lose track of your life.

Connect with Me:

https://www.deborahgreenhut.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahgreenhut01/

Find my books here

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. 

No one wants to think about losing a pet, but what if we could make their final moments as beautiful as the love they’ve given us? I sit down with Monique Brignoni, a pet death doula, who shares how we can bring love, presence, and dignity to our pets' final moments. Monique helps shift the way we see pet loss—not as just a medical event, but as a deeply personal and meaningful transition. She reminds us that we have the power to create a peaceful, intentional goodbye, honoring the bond we’ve built over a lifetime. If you’ve ever felt lost navigating this emotional journey, Monique’s insights will bring comfort, clarity, and a new perspective on what it means to truly be there for our furry companions.

About Our Guest: 

Monique trains aspiring pet death doulas worldwide, offering holistic skills that transform end-of-life experiences into peaceful, conscious, and regret-free journeys. Instead of despair, she helps deepen bonds, creating a loving bridge across forever. Her approach turns challenging moments into opportunities for healing and awakening.

Links:

Free sessions of Walk Your Pet Home - The Complete Guide To Consciously Navigating Our Animal Friend’s End-Of-Life Journey: https://training.animalchemy.com/free-gift-wyph 

www.petwise.world If people register on this website or the Pet Wise App they get access to a 45 min presentation called What Do Pets Teach Us On Life & Death. 

For pet parents that are going through an end-of-life journey: https://one.animalchemy.com/widget/bookings/peaceful-pet-discovery-session

For aspiring pet death doulas: https://one.animalchemy.com/widget/bookings/sacred-pet-doula-discovery-session

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/animalchemy1/

About Me:

I have cared for many family members across the life span, experiencing the joys and challenges of child-rearing, the poignance of caring for parents, friends, and elder partners. I realized that I could not handle the stress of family caregiving 24/7/365. It was time for a new approach to caring. My health and happiness were slipping away. This is how Think to Thrive for Caregivers evolved. Let your mind meet your heart so you don’t lose track of your life.

Connect with Me:

https://www.deborahgreenhut.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahgreenhut01/

Find my books here

Thanks for listening!

Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.

Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!

Subscribe to the podcast

If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.

Leave us an Apple Podcasts review

Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.