Send Cathy a text:) Discover how simple, local activities can create joy and lasting memories during the caregiving season, even when grand summer adventures feel out of reach. From intimate picnics and garden strolls to cozy movie nights at home, this episode shares heartfelt personal experiences that prove happiness and connection don't require e…

Send Cathy a text:) Ever feel like you’re constantly juggling the demands of caregiving without a moment to breathe? In this episode of The Caregiver Cup Podcast, we dive into the essential topic of "Making Space as a Caregiver." Discover why taking time for yourself isn’t just a luxury but a necessity. Through powerful stories like Emma’s journey …

Send Cathy a text:) Are you feeling overwhelmed and isolated because you think you should handle everything alone. In this episode of the Caregiver Cup podcast, we unpack the sneaky nature of caregiver false confidence. I'll share my personal journey through the pitfalls of overestimating my abilities and the cultural pressures that led to my stres…

Send Cathy a text:) Join us for an inspiring conversation with Danae Robinett, a seasoned yoga teacher and retreat leader, who generously shares her journey as a caregiver daughter. With 19 years of experience as a yoga teacher and 12 years as a retreat leader, Danae brings a wealth of wisdom and insight to her caregiving role. Danae's caregiving j…

Send Cathy a text:) Well, hello my friend and welcome to the Caregiver Cup podcast! In this special episode, I'm taking a break from our usual structured format to have a cozy coffee chat with you. Picture this: it's Monday morning, and I'm still in my leopard print pajamas, sipping on my favorite black coffee. Last week was a rollercoaster of emot…

Send Cathy a text:) Join me on a personal season of transformation in "From Dread to Determination," where I explore the intricate landscape of caregiving. In this episode, I delve into the raw realities of facing daunting medical appointments, navigating complex emotions, and overcoming ruminating thoughts. I share my personal experiences and insi…

Send Cathy a text:) Feeling the weight of caregiving responsibilities? Struggling to find the motivation to face another challenging day? You're not alone. Join me in this episode as we explore practical strategies to reignite your motivation and reclaim your spark even on the toughest caregiving days. In this episode, we dive deep into the common …

Send Cathy a text:) In this episode , we delve into the transformative concept of repotting and its profound relevance to the caregiving journey. Just as plants require repotting to facilitate growth and thrive, caregivers too must adapt, evolve, and create space for positive change. Join us as we explore five key aspects of repotting, from adaptin…

Send Cathy a text:) It's time to dive into today's episode, and boy, do we have a juicy topic to explore! Picture this: You, yes YOU, uncovering your very own recipe for caregiver joy and kicking those negative thoughts to the curb. Doesn't that sound like music to your ears? Join us as we embark on this journey of self-discovery, where we'll unrav…

Send Cathy a text:) When Laureen Wysocki stepped into the role of a caregiver for her husband, Kevin, with young-onset dementia, she embarked on a path that would test her strength and resilience. Our heartfelt conversation with this courageous opera singer and dedicated caregiver shines a light on the complexity and beauty of caring for a loved on…

Send Cathy a text:) As a fellow traveler on the caregiving journey, I know the daily grind can sometimes leave us feeling like mealtime is just another mountain to climb. That's why I'm bringing you tried-and-true meal planning strategies to lift the burden off your shoulders. We'll tackle everything from the art of crafting a weekly meal plan that…

Send Cathy a text:) Years of rushing to catch flights and balancing a career with raising children taught me a crucial lesson: adversity breeds resilience. Today, I'm inviting you on a heartfelt exploration of how a well-stocked caregiver toolkit can turn the daunting into the doable. Reflecting on the anxiety that once gripped me before every work…

Send Cathy a text:) Join us for an insightful discussion on "Dealing with Narcissism: Insights and Coping Strategies for Caregivers." In this episode, we delve into the challenging realm of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) and its impact on caregivers. Host Cathy bravely shares her personal journey of recognizing and navigating her mother's …

Send Cathy a text:) Have you ever found yourself staring at the ceiling at 2 AM, worrying about a loved one you care for, instead of sleeping? You're not alone; an overwhelming majority of caregivers experience sleep disturbances, a topic we're addressing head-on in today's heart-to-heart on The Caregiver Cup Podcast. With sleep being as fundamenta…

Send Cathy a text:) When dental discomfort knocked at my door, it brought with it a landslide of challenges and revelations about the caregiver journey I never expected to face. The ache became a stern teacher, imparting lessons on resilience, self-advocacy, and the art of managing crises with a clear head. Through my own narrative of navigating a …

Send Cathy a text:) When I stumbled upon my late father's journals, a 40-year legacy of his thoughts and experiences, it was like finding a hidden doorway to the past and a spark for my future. His perseverance through the blank pages inspired me, Cathy, to embark on my own journaling journey, which I'm thrilled to share with you. As we explore the…

Send Cathy a text:) Discover the keys to navigating the complex waters of hospitalization as we sit down with Dr. Monique Nugent, an experienced hospitalist and the author of "Prescription for Admission: A Doctor’s Guide for Navigating the Hospital, Advocating for Yourself, and Having a Better Hospitalization." Through our enlightening conversation…

Send Cathy a text:) In this episode, I share what to do when it feels like nothing is working in your caregiver life because these times are tough when you are the primary caregiver and feel alone and like you're the only one dealing with hard times. I share my approach that helps me and my clients navigate the tough times and come out stronger on …

Send Cathy a text:) Celebrate with us as we uncork the bubbly for the 200th episode of the Caregiver Cup podcast, a journey that's transformed from the humble beginnings of the Caregiver Wife to a haven for all sorts of caregiving champions. We're tackling the role of 'CEO' of our caregiving situations, armed with strategies for juggling the comple…

Send Cathy a text:) When life handed Tracy Donaldson the unexpected role of a dual caregiver, it carved a path of profound transformation, from corporate VP to the intimate realities of supporting both her mother and spouse through their personal health battles. This episode takes you through her candid journey, sharing the complexities of caregivi…

Send Cathy a text:) When my husband Denis faced his stem cell transplant, I found myself in a debilitating zone of fear. This podcast peels back the curtain on the raw, transformative journey of caregiving, and I open up about the emotional quest from fear to empowerment. If you've ever found yourself floundering in the depths of the fear zone or c…

Send Cathy a text:) As a caregiver, the rain of responsibilities can be relentless, but I've learned that the right umbrella can keep you dry and standing strong. It took me revisiting the trials of managing my mother's care after her lung cancer treatments to truly understand the weight and worth of setting healthy boundaries. This episode is a he…

Send Cathy a text:) Six years ago, a moment of utter vulnerability amidst the chaos of caregiving led me to a breakthrough in self-care and managing stress. In this episode of the Caregiver Cup podcast, I invite you to journey with me as we explore the power of morning routines, not just as a list of tasks, but as a transformative practice for thos…

Send Cathy a text:) Facing the silent battle that every caregiver endures, I had to confront the truth about stress and burnout, something my father knew all too well. It's a tale not just of struggle but of transformation, and I'm here to guide you through the turbulent yet hopeful journey of caregiving. My own story of job dissatisfaction and the…

Send Cathy a text:) Discover the art of self-care and launch into a transformative New Year with us. As the confetti settles, we bring you a heartfelt conversation on how to make self-care not just a resolution, but a revolution in your daily life. Celebrating the New Year has taken on a new meaning for us; it's quieter, filled with intention, and …

Send Cathy a text:) Discover the resilience that lies within you as we journey together through a reflection practice. Get my free downloadable reflection practice guide, where we'll navigate a personal reflection practice of 2023 that goes beyond mere introspection, empowering you to embrace the gratitude and joy each year brings. Ready to celebra…

Send Cathy a text:) Imagine, one moment you're navigating the ordinary challenges of life and the next, you're thrust into the role of a caregiver grappling with crisis after crisis. This was my reality when I had to put my personal life on hold to care for a loved one. Join me as I share this intimate journey, shedding light on the immediate stres…

Send Cathy a text:) Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the emotional and physical upheaval of midlife, especially while juggling the demands of caregiving? Join us as we navigate this challenging terrain with Karen Viesta, a certified health and lifestyle coach and the inspiring voice behind the Wellegant Woman podcast. Karen brings her own enlighte…

Send Cathy a text:) As the paths of our lives intersect with those of our loved ones, we all too often find ourselves in the role of a caregiver. Through my personal experiences with my parents and husband, I witnessed the hidden burdens that come with caregiving - the sacrifices, the people-pleasing, the neglect of personal needs. This emotional r…

Send Cathy a text:) Navigating the holiday season as a caregiver? Expand your toolkit with our personal stories and practical advice to create new holiday memories and traditions that bring joy and simplicity. As a caregiver myself, I've encountered many of the challenges and emotions that often arise during this time of year. I've learned valuable…

Send Cathy a text:) Ever feel like you're drowning under the weight of caregiving? We're about to throw you a lifeline. We dedicate this empowering episode to untangling the complex web of caregiving and how to properly assert yourself in this role. We elevate the discussion around setting boundaries and the crucial role of saying “no”, both for yo…

Send Cathy a text:) Imagine waking up each day with a heart filled with gratitude, even amid life's toughest moments. That's the powerful journey I embarked on back in October 2017, and it has not only helped me manage stress but also find joy in the role of caregiving. Throughout this episode, I share the transformative power of gratitude, from be…

Send Cathy a text:) Did you ever imagine you'd be in this place, as a caregiver? Neither did I. As we celebrate National Family Caregivers Month, let's shine a light on the amazing work of over 50 million family caregivers across the country. Whether you're in the US or anywhere else, you deserve a virtual hug for all the extraordinary care you pro…

Send Cathy a text:) Have you ever felt drained and powerless after a conversation or interaction, wondering if you're being haunted by energy vampires? Or perhaps you've been the culprit of your own energy depletion? Well, you're in for a treat. We're going on a spook-tacular journey through the realm of energy vampires - those ghoulish challenges …

Send Cathy a text:) Get ready to journey into the haunted realm of fear, as we explore not just Halloween traditions, but also the deeper, more personal fears that can creep up on us, especially as caregivers. Prepare yourselves for a chilling tale from my childhood, where a homemade witch costume won me second place in a costume contest! This Hall…

Send Cathy a text:) Ever found yourself juggling the chaos of life, work, and caregiving - all while struggling with guilt and stress? This week on Caregiver Cup, we unravel my personal journey during a tumultuous week in 2017, navigating Thanksgiving, work, my husband and father's chemotherapy treatments, and my own birthday. We delve into how acc…

Send Cathy a text:) What if there was a space where caregivers could come together, share their stories, and gain support? A place where they could learn to replenish their cups after pouring so much into caring for others? Welcome to the third anniversary celebration of the Caregiver Cup podcast! Over these incredible years, we've not just built a…

Send Cathy a text:) Do you feel like worry and anxiety are your constant companions as a caregiver? It's time for a change, and this episode is your golden ticket to making that change happen! As we mark the three-year anniversary of the Caregiver Cup Podcast, we implore you to join us in a candid discussion about worry - the worry habit, the core …

Send Cathy a text:) Ever felt like you're endlessly running on a treadmill, caught in the caregiving cycle that leaves no room for you? I've been there too, juggling the demands of caregiving, feeling physically and emotionally sapped but persisting because...well, who else would? In this heartfelt conversation, we'll navigate the often uncharted t…

Send Cathy a text:) Are you ready to turn adversity into triumph? My guest today, Debbie Weiss, has done just that. A seasoned life strategist, author, entrepreneur, podcast host, and family caregiver, Debbie has turned her life's challenges into a journey of resilience and hope. Her powerful memoir, "On Second Thought, Maybe I Can...", serves as a…

Send Cathy a text:) I've always believed that caregiving is more than just a responsibility; it's a calling. An event as simple as my niece's bridal shower reminded me how important it is to embrace our authentic selves and find joy in every moment. This episode is all about that - the personal decision of caregiving, and the transition from corpor…

Send Cathy a text:) Can't believe it's been six years since my caregiving journey began? I'll never forget that life-altering call I received from my parents, disclosing my dad's stage 4 pancreatic cancer diagnosis. Things became more overwhelming when my spouse too was diagnosed with stage 4 non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. As we journey through this episo…

Send Cathy a text:) Imagine a life where chronic stress and burnout constantly chip away at your focus, motivation, and memory. Sounds tough, right? Well, that was my reality. On this personal journey, I open up about my battle with chronic stress, discussing its profound impact on my life, offering real-life examples of how it crept into my daily …

Send Cathy a text:) Are you a caregiver navigating the tricky waters of resentment? It's a common yet complex emotion, characterized by bitterness, anger, and even hostility towards loved ones or certain circumstances. This episode promises to provide you with effective strategies to overcome and release resentment, making your caregiving journey m…

Send Cathy a text:) When I first began to prioritize my health and set healthy boundaries, my family was less than thrilled. There were pushbacks, guilt-inducing comments, and even some behind-the-scenes gossip. But I learned to navigate through these obstacles, and I'm sharing my experiences with you in this heartfelt episode. We'll explore the em…

Send Cathy a text:) Feeling overwhelmed and stressed as a caregiver? You're not alone. Join me on this emotional roller coaster ride, where I share my personal experiences and discuss the common challenges caregivers face. I know firsthand the struggle of waking up each day feeling hopeless and the reliance on quick fixes like power naps, late-nigh…

Send Cathy a text:) Ever wondered how to transform your caregiving experience into a journey of peace, joy and empowerment? The answer lies in auditing - a process I recently undertook for my podcast, the Caregiver Cup, with the help of my coach, Krystal Proffitt. Krystal's invaluable insights gave me a clear picture of my podcast's strengths and w…

Send Cathy a text:) Feeling anger, resentment, torn or unhappy? Caregiving is a life transition for you and it competes with your values. This transition is hard. When you don’t address your competing values, you may feel like you are suffocating. Learn invaluable tips to stay connected to our personal goals and your new caregiver values. I delve i…

Send Cathy a text:) Do you ever feel like your mind is overflowing with negative thoughts as a caregiver? Well, mine certainly was this past week. I was buried under the weight of concerns about my appearance, and with Denis’ oncology visit, my anxiety was through the roof. I was stuck in a cycle of negative thoughts, so I began to question their u…

Send Cathy a text:) Ever wondered how your body is signaling stress levels and what the clues might mean? Join me as I take you on a journey of self-discovery, mapping stress zones and crafting strategies to manage caregiver stress. Drawing parallels from the ER triage system and my personal experience with my husband's injury, we'll explore how as…