Andrea Hughes story is a powerful reminder of how much caregivers give and how little they often keep for themselves. As a caregiver for her mom living with Alzheimer's, she’s made it her mission to shift the narrative—to show that caring for others doesn’t have to come at the expense of our own well-being. Her approach blends personal experiences, sharing vulnerability so others know they are not alone, and her own unique way of redefining self-care. Andrea believes deeply in the power of surrender, letting go of control, and finding peace in the present, lessons she’s lived out in her own journey with her family. Her work inspires caregivers to lean into their emotions, release guilt, and rediscover what it means to be resilient.

In our conversation, Andrea shares her approach to healing, how she navigates the emotional complexities of caregiving, and why she believes community is essential for resilience. Through her work, she encourages caregivers to embrace vulnerability, process their emotions, and redefine what it means to be strong. Andrea believes that caring for others must also include caring for oneself, a lesson she’s learned in the most heartfelt and sometimes heart-wrenching ways. Whether you’re a caregiver or simply seeking inspiration on how to care for your soul, she shares her wisdom, from navigating grief and loss to finding joy and peace even amid the most challenging times.

Thank you my friend for being present with me in this conversation. So much love for you.

Follow and connect with Andrea HERE: https://www.andreakrystal.com/

Through her daily journal prompts, writing, and insights, she encourages caregivers and older adults to find strength in their vulnerability and make space for healing.

Buy caregiver journal prompts HERE: https://www.andreakrystal.com/purchase/p/365-journal-prompts-for-dementia-caregivers

Instagram: https://www.andreakrystal.com/

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

For many, a diagnosis can bring loss. What if, instead of focusing on what’s lost, we saw the vibrant creativity and art that continue to flourish, revealing the fullness of life that still lives within? Today, we’re joined by Marilyn Raichle, Author of "Don't Walk Away: A Care Partner's Journey" and Executive Director of Maude’s Awards for Innovation in Alzheimer’s Care, whose personal journey with her mother’s dementia offers a remarkable story of discovery, love, and the power of art.

When Marilyn’s mother began to paint after her Alzheimer’s diagnosis, what emerged was not only a vibrant collection of artwork but a new lens through which Marilyn saw her mother— a full person expressing joy, wit, and resilience. Through this art, Marilyn connected with her mother on a deeper level and found a way to invite others into that connection. She began sharing these paintings, seeing firsthand how they challenged perceptions of dementia, and brought light to her mother’s life.

In today’s conversation, we’ll explore Marilyn’s caregiving journey, the moments of joy and challenge, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. She’ll share how her mother’s art became a bridge to understanding, why she chose to stay present and connected, and how we all might reimagine caregiving to see not just what is lost, but the humanity that remains. Thank you, Marilyn, for reminding us that even amidst loss, there is beauty to be found.

Learn more at https://dontwalkaway.net/

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

What are the ripple effects of caregiving that touch every corner of our lives, not just for those directly involved but for everyone around them? In today’s episode, we talk about the layers of caregiving’s impact—a journey of empathy, strength, and resilience that changes the caregivers, the cared-for, and everyone who supports them.

Joining us is Todd “TJ” Keitz, the founder of My Care Friends, a platform born from his own caregiving journey that began at age nine and evolved through decades of supporting his loved ones through life-altering health battles. Todd’s story, alongside the experiences of Katie Seymour and her husband (who is also named Todd), and our own Nicole Will and her mother, Jill, sheds light on the nuanced, deeply personal realities of caregiving.

Todd’s vision for My Care Friends was inspired by the profound need for connection and understanding among caregivers, who too often shoulder immense responsibilities alone. The mission is clear: create a supportive, safe community for caregivers and patient advocates to connect, educate, and advocate together. In this conversation, we’ll explore how caregiving, whether for a child, partner, or aging parent, demands physical, emotional, and even financial resilience from multiple contributors. As Todd shares, caregiving is rarely a solo effort; it often requires an entire network of people contributing time, energy, and resources. My Care Friends embodies the strength of community and offers a place for these voices to connect, share, and learn.

Today’s episode unpacks the “ripple effect” of caregiving: from personal identity shifts and relationship dynamics to the impact on work, health, and mental well-being. We’ll discuss why defining “caregiver” is so crucial, and how recognizing this role can bring essential support and validation. You’ll hear the unique perspectives of long-distance and family caregivers, how self-forgiveness and setting boundaries play into the journey, and how we can help change the caregiving narrative for a brighter, more connected future.

Learn more at https://mycarefriends.com/

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

How does empathy and accountability intersect to shape a better future for older adults, families and senior living? Rebecca Adelman, is redefining leadership within healthcare and senior living through her “Work-Life Being” philosophy and focus on “Unique Abilities.” Rebecca’s approach promotes a transformative cultural shift where empathy and empowerment become the cornerstones of care and professional excellence. As an attorney, entrepreneur, and thought leader with nearly 35 years of experience, Rebecca brings her insights and compassion to support families and professionals.

Rebecca’s impact stretches beyond the legal field. Founder of the all-women Adelman Firm and Claims Management, she has not only established a groundbreaking claims management model but has also launched initiatives like the Adelman-Mettle Care Alliance and Guide Path, focusing on culture change and expectations management in senior living. She’s received numerous accolades, including being named one of the “Top 10 Empowering Women Leaders in 2023” by CIO Views and honored with awards such as the Pro Bono Service Award from the Tennessee Supreme Court. A national speaker, Rebecca regularly shares her wisdom on women in business, enterprise risk management, and senior living culture through webinars like The Senior Living Empower Hour and publications.

In our conversation, Rebecca offers guidance on navigating care transitions with empathy and foresight. Whether discussing legal protections for families, addressing the emotional challenges of caregiving, or sharing resources for staying informed, Rebecca’s insights empower us to approach these decisions with clarity and compassion. Thank you, Rebecca for your mentorship and compassion.

Learn more at https://adelmanfirm.com/

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

How do we cherish the present while preparing for the inevitable? How do we navigate a grief that doesn't come with closure? These are some of the tough questions we're talking about today.

Joining us is Dr. Theresa B. Skaar, or as many know her, Dr. T. With her PhD in social psychology, expertise in Mind-Body Medicine, and certification in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Dr. T is deeply committed to helping people, particularly caregivers, find peace and resilience in the most challenging moments of life.

She brings a wealth of experience from her personal caregiving journey, as well as her professional work in workshops, where she blends humor, compassion, and practical tools. Whether you're a caregiver or someone interested in learning how mindfulness and grief intersect, Dr. T's insights will leave you feeling both comforted and empowered.

In today’s conversation, we’ll explore what it means to experience anticipatory and ambiguous grief, why it matters to understand these types of grief, and how mindfulness practices can be a powerful tool in the process.

Learn more at https://ccwithdrt.com/

Resources mentioned:

https://www.harpercollins.com/pages/alua-arthur

https://www.facebook.com/IamDavidKessler

https://refugeingrief.com/books

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co., a boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!

How do rural caregivers navigate caregiving challenges with limited resources and support? For many caregivers in these settings, the isolation can be overwhelming. Today, we’re talking about the unique challenges faced by rural dementia caregivers—individuals who often carry the weight of caregiving with little outside help. Research is beginning to shine a light on their needs, and new solutions are emerging that offer hope and much-needed support.

Our guests today, Matthew Zuraw and Pam Brandon, each bring a deeply personal and professional perspective to this topic. Matthew’s journey began after losing his grandmother to dementia and, more recently, his father to Alzheimer’s. He has since become a fierce advocate for those impacted by the disease and co-founded CareVirtue, an innovative platform designed to support caregivers. Pam, with over 25 years of experience in caregiver education, is the founder of AGE-u-cate Training Institute. She’s been a driving force behind programs like Dementia Live® and Compassionate Touch®, which are transforming how we care for those living with dementia.

In today’s episode, we’ll explore the distinct barriers faced by caregivers in rural communities and how Matthew and Pam are working to bridge those gaps. We’ll discuss the emotional toll on these caregivers, the resources they desperately need, and the emerging solutions that are finally beginning to make a difference. So, whether you’re a caregiver yourself or simply want to understand how we can better support caregivers, this conversation is for you. Thank you, Matthew and Pam!

Learn more at https://carevirtue.com/ & https://ageucate.com/

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

What does it take to advocate effectively for ourselves and our loved ones as we navigate the complexities of aging and healthcare?

My guest is Cheryl Field, a seasoned professional with over three decades in nursing, specializing in rehabilitation and post-acute care. Cheryl's journey is in healthcare with a focus on quality, compliance, and patient advocacy. With roles ranging from clinical director to Chief Product Officer, and speaking at state and national conventions, Cheryl brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to our conversation today.

Cheryl is a two-time international best-selling author whose recent book, Prepared! A Healthcare Guide for Aging Adults, offers a simple yet powerful system of advocacy that anyone can follow. Her approach simplifies complex systems with analogies and personal stories, making daunting topics accessible and engaging.

In our podcast, we discussed the vital role of advocacy in improving senior care outcomes, strategies to develop support systems to prevent caregiver burnout, expert insights on navigating the Medicare system, and approaches for simplifying complex healthcare information to empower caregivers in making informed decisions. Thank you, Cheryl!

Learn more at https://www.cherylfield.com/

Thank you to our sponsor Magic Mind. Recieve up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code NAVIGATINGTHEWORLD20 at checkout HERE: https://magicmind.com/navigatingtheworld

We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.

Please follow for updates, rate & review!

For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co., a boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!