Island Treasures podcast

#Fitness #Society #Relationship #Self-Improvement #Alison van Schie #Podcasting Education #Caregiving Stories #Caregivers #Caregiver Resources #Caregiver Support

28:52

Retailers are facing a rapidly evolving landscape where consumer expectations, AI advancements, and social media platforms like TikTok are redefining engagement. It feels like the holiday shopping season just ended, but when do retailers start planning for the next one, and some retailers already behind the curve for this season? Joining us today is Carey Cockrum, Director of Consulting at Cella by Randstad Digital, where she helps major brands and marketing teams optimize their strategies with data-driven insights, AI-powered content creation, and cutting-edge retail marketing trends. With the holidays just around the corner, she’s here to share what’s next for retail marketing, campaign optimization, and how brands can stay ahead in a hyper-competitive space. ABOUT CAREY COCKRUM Carey has been a part of the Creative Agency space for nearly 30 years. She has served as Designer, Creative Director, Creative Operations Lead and Agency Lead in both internal and external agencies (big and small). Carey has worked directly with C-suite stakeholders to understand organizational strategies that inform effective creative solutions. She is a bit of a data nerd and loves demonstrating results. Brands she’s supported include Fruit of the Loom, Wendy’s and Humana. In her free time, she enjoys going back to her creative roots through painting and drawing. She also spends her time improving upon the house she lives in today in Southern, MI - inside and out. RESOURCES Catch the future of e-commerce at eTail Boston, August 11-14, 2025. Register now: https://bit.ly/etailboston and use code PARTNER20 for 20% off for retailers and brands Don't Miss MAICON 2025, October 14-16 in Cleveland - the event bringing together the brights minds and leading voices in AI. Use Code AGILE150 for $150 off registration. Go here to register: https://bit.ly/agile150 Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstrom Don't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.show Check out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com The Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://www.teksystems.com/versionnextnow The Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company…

Island Treasures

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This podcast provides a platform for caregivers to share their stories, offering encouragement and insights to those who may be on a similar journey. Guests bring wisdom and empowerment to remind caregivers they're not alone. Additionally, guests share valuable information, tips and resources to support caregivers in their vital role.

118 episodes

Island Treasures

updated 5 days ago

Series home•Feed

118 episodes

#Fitness #Society #Relationship #Self-Improvement #Alison van Schie #Podcasting Education #Caregiving Stories #Caregivers #Caregiver Resources #Caregiver Support

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Island Treasures

1
Rayna’s Caregiving Wisdom: No Regrets and Cherished Memories 53:04

5 days ago53:04

53:04

In this episode we are joined by Rayna Neises for an enlightening conversation about her extensive caregiving journey. Rayna is a dedicated Caregiving Coach, author, and advocate for family caregivers. With a heart deeply rooted in faith, Rayna has transformed her caregiving experiences into a mission to support others navigating the challenging path of caregiving. She was introduced to caregiving as a teenager, caring first for her mom who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's, and later for her dad, who, after a cancer diagnosis and a MRSA infection, also had Alzheimer's disease. Rayna delves into the emotional and practical challenges she faced and details how she and her sister managed to honor their father's wish to live at home. Rayna discusses the importance of self-care for caregivers, her approach to documenting and learning from caregiving experiences, and the inspirations behind writing her book, 'No Regrets: Hope for Your Caregiving Season.' Additionally, we touch on Rayna's coaching work and her podcast, 'A Season of Caring,' which is an insightful resource that offers practical advice and spiritual encouragement to those caring for aging loved ones. The episode concludes with advice for caregivers to cherish and capture moments - emphasizing the importance of maintaining personal joy and creativity. Rayna is married to a farmer and lives on a farm in Kansas. Her life is a beautiful blend of faith, family, and farming. She is a stepmother to four and a grandmother to 8. Her close relationship with her sister, with whom she shared her caregiving journey, adds a profound depth to her understanding of family dynamics in times of need. You can learn more about Rayna and her resources at www.ASeasonofCaring.com or on her podcast A Season of Caring. Instagram LinkedIn Facebook X (Twitter) "Click Here to Leave a Comment"…

Island Treasures

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Island Treasures Mini Podcast: A Dementia Companion 8:45

26 days ago8:45

8:45

This mini episode highlights key points from “Creating Connections with a Dementia Companion” featuring Gina Awad. Gina, who studied Dementia as part of her Health and Social Care degree, is a valuable resource for those living with dementia and their caregivers. She noticed common themes like fear and system navigation during her early information sessions. Recognizing the need for clear guidance after a dementia diagnosis, Gina emphasized the importance of discussing dementia and providing accessible information to reduce stigma, and she founded the Exeter Dementia Action Alliance . In addition to her information sessions, she created a forum for discussions through her radio show, “Living Better with Dementia” on Sonic FM. A show where her guests share resources, their passion, projects, information and stories. To further provide information on dementia in a non-intimidating way, Gina authored "United: Caring for our Loved Ones Living with Dementia," a book illustrated by the late Tony Husband that offers an easy-to-read perspective on the realities of dementia. Gina's insights in this mini episode can be invaluable whether you're involved in caregiving or recently diagnosed with dementia. "Click Here to Leave a Comment"…

Island Treasures

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Meaningful Connections with a Dementia Companion 58:52

5 weeks ago58:52

58:52

Gina Awad's heartfelt journey into dementia caregiving began with her childhood visits to care homes, sparking a lifelong mission to support families navigating this challenging landscape. She studied Dementia as part of her Health and Social Care degree in 2011 to further explore the challenges and realities of dementia. As a dedicated advocate, she shares her path from those early impressions to becoming a dementia champion, highlighting the emotional and social challenges both caregivers and patients face. This episode shines a light on her impactful community sessions, her dementia training sessions, and her ongoing efforts to foster acceptance, open communication, and understanding within communities. The conversation takes a personal turn as Gina recounts assisting a close friend in accepting her dementia diagnosis, underscoring the need for awareness and funding. She passionately addresses the often-overlooked social changes, such as the shifting dynamics in friendships, and the importance of educating workplaces about accessibility and support. By drawing parallels with past taboos like cancer, Gina is determined to break the stigma surrounding dementia, ensuring that no one feels isolated or misunderstood. Listeners will also enjoy exploring Gina's creative endeavors, from hosting a radio show on Phonic FM to illustrated stories of caregivers in collaboration with the late Tony Husband in their book " United: Caring for our Loved Ones Living with Dementia ". Her commitment to creating meaningful resources is evident in her upcoming book, "When Time Aligns: the Stories of Care from a Dementia Companion," which promises to weave personal experiences with broader insights into dementia care. Through these narratives, Gina not only shares her experiences but invites us all to understand and support the world of dementia caregiving with empathy and compassion. In recognition of Gina's significant contributions to supporting people affected by dementia, Gina was awarded the British Empire Medal in 2018. In addition she is a Carer Representative for The Royal College of Psychiatrists for their Memory Services National Accreditation Programme. Connect with Gina through LinkedIn of through the Exeter Dementia Action Alliance "Click Here to Leave a Comment"…

Island Treasures

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Island Treasures Mini Podcast: Thinking Ahead with Betsy Haddad 8:20

8 weeks ago8:20

8:20

This mini episode visits a few of the key takeaways Betsy Haddad shared with the listeners in the full episode "Thinking Ahead about Alzheimer's and Care Needs with Betsy Haddad". Since her caregiving experience she has become an activist and wanted to share about: Why she became an activist? Hybrid Long Term Care Insurance Clinical Trials Blood Test to Detect Protein related to dementia. As an activist, Betsy not only talks about dementia, but she is also proud to be part of the science. "Click Here to Leave a Comment"…

Island Treasures

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Thinking Ahead About Alzheimer's and Care Needs with Betsy Haddad 56:04

9 weeks ago56:04

56:04

Betsy Haddad has returned to the podcast to share some exciting news on the fight against Alzheimer's Disease. Since the passing of her beloved dad, Edward, Betsy has had time to reflect on his suffering and that has channeled her grief into activism in the fight against the disease. Betsy is a member of Generation X and she grew up in the era of 80's music. She has two wonderful adult sons who are the light of her life. In her spare time, Betsy loves to sing - performing occasionally at local restaurants with her friend on keyboard. She also sings with the Orlando Episcopal Cathedral church choir. In this episode you will hear about a blood test (still in its trial stages) that measures protein levels, believed to be a tool to detect Alzheimer's early on. Betsy, herself, has had the blood test so you'll want to hear her take on what this means for her. Betsy shares about GUIDE (Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience) , by CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) designed to support people living with dementia and their unpaid caregivers and how this test model provides a care navigator who is in charge of the person with the diagnosis' care, supports the caregiver and provides opportunities for respite care for the caregiver. Betsy also mentioned RIPPL through Alzheimer's Association. We also hear from Betsy, who works as a consultant in the health insurance industry, about an important distinction between long-term care insurance and hybrid long-term care insurance. Betsy doesn't just talk about her wish to improve the future for others; she puts her words into action by participating in research to advance the science and she's connecting folks to resources that she has discovered through and since her caregiving journey. "Click Here to Leave a Comment"…

Island Treasures

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Island Treasures Mini Podcast: Geri-Gadgets® 8:07

12 weeks ago8:07

8:07

Angela Fairhurst demonstrates the 3 Geri-Gadgets ® buckets that, as an entrepeneur she designed and created to enhance the lives of folks living with dementia. There's the Fidget-Gadget ® bucket, the Shapes bucket and the Flower bucket. Each bucket has its own unique contents to bring activity, joy and engagement to your loved one. "Click Here to Leave a Comment"…

Island Treasures

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A Caregiver's Innovative Creation 45:43

13 weeks ago45:43

45:43

Angela Fairhurst was the primary caregiver for her mom who after a misdiagnosis and several different medications was eventually diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia. Angela's passion to find engaging activities for her mom led her to create Geri-Gadgets® and as the founder and CEO of Geri-Gadgets®, she is dedicated to enhancing the lives of those affected by dementia. Angela has over 25 years of experience as a non-fiction television producer and journalist through Fairhurst Productions, Inc., and former Executive Director of the Chambers Group, a consumer product-marketing firm. From her impressive career, she brings a unique blend of creativity and practical expertise to her work. Her journey in dementia care began with the personal connection with her mom, leading her to immerse herself in the study of dementia and forge connections within the care community. Angela's innovative approach combines her product development skills with a deep understanding of caregivers' needs, resulting in stimulating Geri-Gadgets® that make a real difference in dementia care. In this episode Angela also speaks about her processing of grief and the useful resource she found in the Grief Recovery Handbook . If you wish to take a look at Geri-gadgets, you can check out Angela's website . Angela will also be highlighting the products in the upcoming mini podcast episode that will be available in video format. "Click Here to Leave a Comment"…

Island Treasures

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Island Treasures 'Treasure Chest' with Judy Cornish 19:47

16 weeks ago19:47

19:47

Another 'Island Treasures Treasure Chest' bonus episode. In this episode we revisit " Skills Retained: Strengths-Based Approach to Dementia Care " Season 2, Episode 13 featuring Judy Cornish. Judy Cornish is the founder of the DAWN Method - a strengths-based approach to dementia care. From the treasure chest we hear about two sets of thinking skills: the sensory and the rational thinking skills. We examine dementia through the lens of the disease or medical model and compare that to viewing dementia through the experiential or functional perspective. We also hear about mindfulness and mindlessness and how important it is to recognize the skills our loved one still has and how to supplement the ones they may be losing. Learning about this strengths-based, person-centered approach to dementia care can help provide a more positive experience for both the caregiver and their loved one. "Click Here to Leave a Comment"…

Island Treasures

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Island Treasures Mini Podcast: Caregiver Respite 7:56

17 weeks ago7:56

7:56

Rebekah Dowhy, grew up being the caregiver for her mom. Through her caregiving life she learned the importance of support. She describes the rare opportunity she had to experience the joy that came with taking a break. A break that to many would be taken for granted, as she was able to join her classmates for an outing. Rebekah's take on this outing was that it felt like a vacation. Learning the power of taking a break from such a young age, Rebekah created a respite program for caregivers. It is called the Caregiving Support Network , and it meets the needs of caregivers to help them cope, feel seen, and to prevent them from becoming a statistic especially with her knowledge that caregiver stress can lead to caregiver burnout. From her perspective she reminds non-caregivers of how they can help the caregivers in their lives and how much a simple gift for a caregiver can mean. "Click Here to Leave a Comment"…

Island Treasures

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Normal Life Plus Caregiving 55:33

18 weeks ago55:33

55:33

This episode offers valuable insights to both caregivers and non-caregivers, featuring valuable tips from Rebekah Dowhy for those who aren't caregivers but want to lend a hand. Rebekah's journey into caregiving began at birth, as her mother was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis the same year she was born. Growing up, Rebekah, along with her dad, took care of her mom. Through this experience, she learned the critical importance of support and the need for respite breaks. (You’ll hear how for Rebekah, even a two-hour break with peers felt like a much-needed vacation.) This inspired her, and after many years of caring for her mom, eventually seeing her home to heaven, Rebekah founded the Caregiving Support Network (CSN). Respite is essential for caregivers, as without it, they risk facing overwhelming stress, depression, and burnout. Understanding this need, Rebekah established the nonprofit program to offer both respite and practical support for caregivers. The Caregiving Support Network (CSN) also extends support post-caregiving, such as with resume writing, recognizing that caregivers acquire numerous new skills and abilities through their experiences that can help when it’s time to return to the career they had pre-caregiving. For more information from Rebekah, here's her website: Caregiving Support Network The activity books Rebekah spoke about are available through Ways 2 Wellness Here's the video " Things Not to Say " that we spoke about. "Click Here to Leave a Comment"…

Island Treasures

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Island Treasures 2024 Podcast Title Story 4:42

20 weeks ago4:42

4:42

This mini episode contains a fictional short story that combines the titles from the full episodes of the Island Treasures podcast that aired throughout 2024. The story encompasses the various aspects of caregiving mentioned in the titles, highlighting the emotional journey, the obstacles, and the victories along the way. As we wrap up 2024 I wish to publicly thank all the guests who have so willingly and selflessly shared their stories on this platform, and helped so many caregivers along the way. My heartfelt gratitude to Grace Block, Bill Cohen, Teepa Snow, George Ackerman, Lori Rogers, Jenna Rumberger, Victoria Essner, Debbie Compton, Alexis Baker, Amy Friesen, Susanne White, and Sarah Merriman. "Click Here to Leave a Comment"…

Island Treasures

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Island Treasures Mini Podcast: Two Poems from Sarah Merriman 9:16

21 weeks ago9:16

9:16

In the full episode entitled "Roadblocks and Signposts for Caregivers", Sarah Merriman talked about her poetry and reminiscence sessions for people living with dementia; and that she is a poet herself! Sarah was willing to share two of her heart-felt poems in this mini episode. The first is called "Dad". It is a loving tribute to her father who was a single father. Sarah tells us about the backstory of the relationship She had with her father and with her Nana and why their bond and Sarah's devotion as her caregiver was so deep. Her second poem is called "Hope" and it is a poem of understanding for caregivers; and Sarah offers compassionate hope and support through her written words. May I add, this compassionate hope is carried through how she supports caregivers in the work she does as a freeland dementia consultant. "Click Here to Leave a Comment"…

Island Treasures

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Roadblocks and Signposts for Caregivers 58:12

22 weeks ago58:12

58:12

Sarah Merriman joins this episode straight from the United Kingdom. Sarah was the primary caregiver for her Nana for seven years. Her grandmother experienced cognitive deficits and despite Sarah's attempts to have her assessed, her grandma was resistant. Sarah was a sandwich-generation caregiver, feeling torn by being pulled in so many different directions. Sarah now recognizes how that impacted not only her, but her family, her job and her grandmother. The toll it took on her led to a total break down after her grandmother passed away. There were roadblocks along the way that contributed to the stress of the journey. The biggest was her grandmother’s resistance to being assessed - preventing her from receiving a diagnosis of dementia until three short months before her death. This roadblock prevented doors being opened to supports that they both so desperately needed. Supports that could have alleviated Sarah’s stress. Sarah did not identify as a caregiver (or carer as they are called in the UK), and as such she was not able to access much needed information, support and resources. But Sarah learned from this and once she regained her strength and returned to work, she went on to obtain a master’s degree in Dementia Studies and now is a huge advocate for caregivers, and folks who are living with dementia and early onset dementia. She truly signposts others to caregiver resources. So, if you are looking after someone who couldn’t manage without your help – you are most likely a carer or a caregiver; by calling yourself a caregiver you can remove what may be one of your roadblocks and learn of resources and supports available to help you along your caregiving journey. If you’d like to contact Sarah, you can do so through her LinkedIn profile ; and be sure to check out her blogs, articles and information about her poetry and reminiscence sessions for people living with dementia. "Click Here to Leave a Comment"…

Island Treasures

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Island Treasures 'Treasure Chest' with Loretta Veney 8:27

25 weeks ago8:27

8:27

Loretta Veney is a LEGO Serious Play Instructor and she was able to find effective ways to incorporate LEGO into caregiving for her mom who was living with dementia. You can hear all about Loretta's journey as a caregiver in the full podcast episode titled " Building the Unbreakable Caregiver " from Season 3 of the Island Treasures Podcast. In this Treasure Chest segment you will hear how using LEGO as a communication tool can be effective. When Loretta's mom was unable to express in words how she was feeling about her dementia diagnosis, she used LEGO to clearly demonstrate how she was feeling. Loretta shares many uses of LEGO that she has experienced throughout her life. "Click Here to Leave a Comment"…

Island Treasures

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Island Treasures Mini Podcast: In the Company of Angels 7:53

26 weeks ago7:53