The Empowered Caregiver

Couples In Caregiving

Liza Hellenbrand — Sat, 01 Jun 2024 13:00:00 +0000

Today, I talk with Marriage Therapist Robin Schnitzler, founder of Relationship Therapy of Madison. Robin sees couples throughout the state of Wisconsin. She has the caregiver role for her daughter and brother with complex needs and her mother, who is living with dementia, so she knows a thing or two about the impacts of caregiving on relationships! Today, we will discuss the tools you can use to have successful conversations, how couples therapy works, how to gain awareness in your own body to help you in your relationships, and how past trauma can show up in your conversations.

Guests: Robin Schnitzler

All About Forgiveness

Liza Hellenbrand — Sat, 25 May 2024 13:00:00 +0000

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and one of the most important ways to support your mental health is to learn about the power of forgiveness. Tim Markle from The Forgiveness Factor will discuss how forgiveness can occur daily in your caregiving journey. We also talk about how forgiveness is critical in healing past trauma. This is a must-listen-to episode if you want to learn how to be a more successful caregiver!

Guests: Tim Markle

Finding Meaningful Work With A Disability

Liza Hellenbrand — Sat, 11 May 2024 13:00:00 +0000

Today, I will discuss why hiring people with disabilities is good for business. Kadin Crute, a young man with autism, will share his story about his employment journey and what it has taught him. I will also talk to founders John and Mark Cronin from John’s Crazy Socks. John has Down Syndrome, and to find meaningful employment, John and his dad Mark started John’s Crazy Socks. Over half of their employees have different abilities, and to date, they have donated over $750,000 to charity! Mark will discuss the do’s and don’ts in creating self-employment for a loved one and adding philanthropy into your business plan.

Guests: John Cronin, Kadin Crute, Mark Cronin

Dating In The Digital Age

Liza Hellenbrand — Sat, 04 May 2024 13:00:00 +0000

Noah Heymann from DateCoach.com will share invaluable insights on modern and online dating. As we all know, dating in the digital age can be a challenge. Noah, a professional dating coach, will discuss topics such as body confidence, dating apps, profile pictures and bios, online conversational techniques, and the science behind dating. His practical advice will equip you with the tools to navigate the world of modern dating more effectively, making the search for that special someone a little bit easier!

Guests: Noah Heymann

Circles Of Life

Liza Hellenbrand — Sat, 27 Apr 2024 13:00:00 +0000

Welcome to my crazy life! Join me as I speak with my husband and the The Devil’s Advocates Radio co-host, Michael Crute, as I talk about my upcoming presentation at the Circles Of Life Conference on May 16th (to join me there go to FamilyVoicesWI.org), our personal caregiving journey, and the RAISE Family Caregivers Act.

Guests: Mike Crute

Your Nervous System And Mental Health

Liza Hellenbrand — Sat, 20 Apr 2024 13:00:00 +0000

Today, I am joined by the founder of Red Beard Somatic Therapy Alex Greene. During this episode, you will learn how and why your nervous system plays a big role in your mental health and overall well-being. We will talk about stress and trauma, how they show up in your body, what the negative impacts are over time, and how we can work through our unresolved issues to create a more grounded and relaxed state of mind.

Guests: Alex Greene

Everything You Need To Know About ADHD

Liza Hellenbrand — Sat, 13 Apr 2024 13:00:00 +0000

You are NOT going to want to miss this episode about all things ADHD! I am joined by Kelly Pickens, a certified ADHD specialist and nurse practitioner, to talk about all the things that are NOT talked about when it comes to ADHD, such as Emotional dysregulation, rejection sensitivity, having an interest-driven nervous system, and time blindness. You should walk away with a better understanding of ADHD, all the different areas of your life it impacts, and what you can do to help yourself or a loved one.

Guests: Kelly Pickens

National Siblings Day!

Liza Hellenbrand — Sat, 06 Apr 2024 13:00:00 +0000

Join me as I speak with Harriet Redman from Wisconsibs, an organization that supports siblings who have a brother or sister with a disability. Harriet brought Elise, a 16-year-old Wisconsibs participant, with her, who will share her experience growing up with a brother who has autism. I will also be speaking with Stephanie Primm, who will share her story of being the main caregiver to her adult brother with autism. Stephanie is also the Executive Director of Lov Inc., a statewide organization that supports people with disabilities in having opportunities to socialize, feel connected to their community, and gain independence!

Exploring The Therapeutic Benefits of Music, Art, and Dance Therapy

Liza Hellenbrand — Sat, 30 Mar 2024 13:00:00 +0000

When we talk about therapy, our minds typically go to some form of talk therapy; however, there are MANY different types of non-traditional therapy! Join me today as we learn about music, art, and dance therapy, who it can help, how it works, and what benefits you can expect to see. Joining me is music therapist Anna Andazola Barker from Third Coast Therapy Collective and Executive Director of Art Therapy House Jill McNutt. I will also be talking with Megan Hufton, from the Autism Society of South Central Wisconsin, about their upcoming walk, Autism Acceptance Day at the Capitol, and some of the many programs they offer those on the autism spectrum and their caregivers.

Guests: Anna Andazola Barker, Jill McNutt, Megan Hufton

Navigating the Healthcare Workforce Shortage

Liza Hellenbrand — Sat, 23 Mar 2024 13:00:00 +0000

Join me as I talk to Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers about our state’s decline in mental health, the workforce crisis in both childcare and the paid direct care workforce, and paid family leave. I will also speak with Janet Zander, Advocacy & Public Policy Coordinator with the Greater Wisconsin Agency on Aging Resources. Janet is a member of the Governor’s Healthcare Workforce Task Force, and she will explain how this new task force will address our state’s direct care workforce shortage and what that means to your family. Lastly, I will speak with Tana Feiner, the Public Policy Ambassador for the American Foundation For Suicide Prevention, about proposed gun legislation in Wisconsin geared to decreasing suicide rates.

Relationship Guru Alexandra Solomon is here to teach us how to create the relationships we really want!

Liza Hellenbrand — Sat, 16 Mar 2024 13:00:00 +0000

Let’s meet Alexandra Solomon! Her work on Relational Self-Awareness has reached millions of people around the world. She is the author of two bestselling books: Loving Bravely and Taking Sexy Back. Dr. Solomon is a licensed clinical psychologist at The Family Institute at Northwestern, where she also teaches the world-renowned course- Building Loving and Lasting Relationships: Marriage 101.

Trauma & Suicide Prevention

Liza Hellenbrand — Sat, 09 Mar 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Trauma is much more common than one may think! What you experienced decades ago may appear in your everyday decisions, reactions, and emotions. Join me today as we talk about the different types of trauma, how it may be lingering with you, and what you can do about it. I will also be speaking with Tana Feiner, the Public Policy Ambassador for the American Foundation For Suicide Prevention

The Traveling Caregiver & The Alzheimer’s Journey

Liza Hellenbrand — Sat, 02 Mar 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Traveling can be a magical adventure, but traveling while being a caregiver can be a whole different story! Learn about resources, tips and tricks, and travel agencies that make it easier for you to travel! After you have all the tools you need for your next vacation, stay tuned to hear Kathryn Lake, Civic Media’s program director, share her personal caregiving journey caring for her parents with Alzheimer’s. Kathryn’s interview is full of hands-on learned experiences of the do’s and don’t’s in caring for your parents.

PAID Medical & Family Leave….Will it become law in Wisconsin?

Liza Hellenbrand — Sat, 17 Feb 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Are you currently eligible for 12 weeks of PAID medical and family leave to care for a loved one?!? Join me today as I talk with Francesa Hong, a State Representative from the 76th district (Madison), about her proposed legislation on PAID medical and family leave. Paid medical and family leave is not the only legislation in the work that supports family caregivers. If you want to know what other proposed legislation could help you in your caregiver journey, don’t miss this episode on ADVOCACY!

Creating and Maintaining Healthy Relationships

Liza Hellenbrand — Sat, 10 Feb 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Everybody wants to be in a happy relationship with their partner, but for caregivers, it might not be so easy. Did you know that up to 80% of caregivers say that they’ve felt strain on their relationships? So how do caregivers create and keep a healthy relationship with their partner? Host Liza Hellenbrand is joined by Robin Schnitzler, of Relationship Therapy of Madison. Robin helps Liza find out about the impacts caregiving can have on a relationship, the foundations of a strong relationship, how to advocate for your needs without creating friction, and how to deal with resentment.

Guests: Robin Schnitzler

Transportation Roundtable Part Two

Liza Hellenbrand — Sat, 03 Feb 2024 18:45:08 +0000

Liza Hellenbrand continues her conversation about transportation and caregiving, and how it impacts people’s lives across the state.

Nick Musson is a transportation specialist with Greater Wisconsin Agency on Aging Resources.

Denise Jess is the Executive Director of the Wisconsin Council for the Blind and Visually Impaired.

Tamara Jackson is a public policy analyst and legislative liaison with the Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities

Guests: Denise Jess, Nick Musson, Tamara Jackson

Transportation Roundtable Part One

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 25 Jan 2024 02:00:00 +0000

It’s a packed show, as host Liza Hellenbrand hosts a roundtable to talk about one of the most underdiscussed aspects of caregiving: driving. Over 30% of people in Wisconsin do not drive. If they don’t drive, well they still have to get to where they need to go. So what do they do?

Mick Rusch and Philip Gadke, with Madison Metro Transit, and Rebecca Hoyt, Disability Rights Specialist with the city of Madison, start the show by talking about transportation in Madison. With more and more people continue to move into Madison, that means more and more people are getting on the roads. The three say that the bus system in Madison is important for cutting greenhouse gases, but it’s maybe even more important for those people who can’t drive due to disability to get where they need to go.

And for those who can’t take the bus, Madison also offers paratransit. But while it can be cumbersome to be approved and get a ride, Gadke says that the city is making process more streamlined.

Guests: Mick Rusch, Phil Gadke, Rebecca Hoyt

Powering your body as a caregiver

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 18 Jan 2024 02:00:00 +0000

As a caregiver, you’re burning a lot of fuel every day, and it’s important to eat healthy to keep your body strong and ready to go with whatever get’s thrown your way.

Aryn DeGrave, dietitian at Hy-Vee, joins the show to talk about the importance of eating healthy, and how to eat well on a budget.

First, DeGrave talks about the psychology of why we eat. We know that it’s important to eat healthy, so why do we turn to pizza and mac and cheese when we’ve had a bad day?

Then, it’s sugar. We love it, but we know it’s bad for us. But how bad is it? As DeGrave says, while we do need a little sugar to give us energy, having excess sugar can lead to big problems down the road. And don’t worry, caffeine is on the chopping block too…

So then, what should we be eating to address the needs of caregiving? DeGrave helps us figure out a balanced diet that can be customizable to our own tastes and needs.

Guests: Aryn DeGrave

The Caregivers of Civic Media part 2

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 02:00:00 +0000

Host Liza Hellenbrand is once again joined by Civic Media hosts and employees to give their caregiver stories.

First is Gray Gunderson is a sales account executive with Civic Media. Gray shares his story about a family member who struggled with mental illness and drug dependency, and what “good news” actually means.

Then, Tammi Eastling, also a sales account executive with Civic Media, talks about her experience raising a child with autism. She shares what it took to raise a child with autism, and the many different hats a caregiver has to wear every day.

Guests: Gray Gunderson, Tammi Eastling

The Forgiveness Factor

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 28 Dec 2023 02:00:00 +0000

This week, host Liza Hellenbrand is joined by Tim Markle, founder and director of the Forgiveness Factor. Why talk about forgiveness and caregiving? Because, Liza says, forgiveness is an important tool in not just helping others, but helping yourself as a caregiver.

As a caregiver himself, Tim explains why it is important to forgive the people you’re caring for when they say or do something hurtful. How do you forgive someone who doesn’t feel any regret? How do you forgive someone who is no longer with us? Tim helps us figure out these tough questions.

Guests: Tim Markle

Supporting Caregivers Throughout Wisconsin

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 21 Dec 2023 02:00:00 +0000

Noah Fulton, a former acupuncturist with GHC Health, talks with host Liza Hellenbrand about his transition from GHC to self-employment, what acupuncture therapy is, and how it can benefit people with anxiety.

Noah now operates Inner Wisdom Acupuncture in both Madison and DeForest.

Then, Caden Crute joins the show to talk about living and thriving with disabilities.

Bryn Ceman with Wisconsin Family and Caregiver Support Alliance joins the show to talk with host Liza Hellenbrand to talk about their organizations and what they can offer people in the caregiving industry.

Guests: Bryn Ceman, Noah Fulton

Paid Family Leave and Caregiving

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 02:00:00 +0000

Kameron Dawson with A Better Balance joins host Liza Hellenbrand to talk about their goal of advancing paid family leave for caregivers and all workers.

How does Wisconsin compare on the topic of paid family and medical leave? Poorly, Dawson says, as paid leave is not enshrine in state law.

Then, Liza shifts gears and takes a look at what’s happening here in Wisconsin.

Kameron Dawson is a Senior Staff Attorney with A Better Balance. A Better Balance is a national nonprofit advocacy organization that uses the power of the law to advance justice for workers, focusing on paid family leave and women’s equality.

Guests: Kameron Dawson

Caregiving and end of lifecare

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 07 Dec 2023 02:00:00 +0000

Liza Hellenbrand is joined by emergency care Doctor Brittany Lamb to discuss her work to help families make decisions about their loved ones with dementia. Then Allison Ronning, an end-of-life doula, comes on to talk about how they give end-of-life care.

Combatting the Caregiver Crisis

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 30 Nov 2023 02:00:00 +0000

Kevin Coughlin, Policy Initiatives Advisor with the WI Department of Health Services, joins the show to talk about their efforts to fight the caregiver crisis. Then, advocate Felicia Clayborne joins the show to talk about the need for transportation for people with disabilities in Wisconsin.

Guests: Felicia Clayborne, Kevin Coughlin

Emotional Labor and Creating a Happy Household

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 23 Nov 2023 02:00:00 +0000

Host Liza Hellenbrand is joins by Dr. Regina Lark, author and podcast host, to talk about emotional labor and forming a happy marriage, and Chaous Riddle with Santas Without Chimneys to talk about the upcoming holiday season.

Guests: Chaous Riddle, Regina Lark

How We've Failed Parent Caregivers

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 16 Nov 2023 02:00:00 +0000

Amanda and Tom Dyer join the Empowered Caregiver to talk their new documentary film, “UNSEEN – How We’ve Failed Parent Caregivers and Why it Matters.”

Guests: Amanda Dyer, Tom Dyer

Caregiver Advocacy on the Hill

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 09 Nov 2023 02:00:00 +0000

Beth Fields, occupational therapist and assistant professor at UW Madison, joins the show to talk about the CARE act. Janet Zander, with Greater WI Agency on Aging Resources Inc, comes on to talk about next week’s Hill Days. Finally, Pizzabox Mike, of Outside the Pizzabox, talks about his experiencing working as a caregiver.

Guests: Beth Fields, Janet Zander, Pizzabox Mike

National Family Caregiver Month

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Liza Hellenbrand gives some history on National Family Caregivers Month, and recaps her trip to D.C. for the National Caregiver Summit.

Live from the National Caregiver Summit

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Liza comes in live from Washington DC as she attends the National Caregiver Summit, and is joined by Harriet Redman, founder of WisconSibs, Kim Nonn, founder of Feist Vocational Counseling and Placement, and Civic Media’s own Mike Crute.

Guests: Harriet Redman, Kim Nonn, Mike Crute

Caregiving in the Black Community

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Liza is joined by Brandi Grayson, founder of Urban Triage, and Dr. Nakia Wiley, vice president of Disability Pride Madison, to talk about challenges in care giving in the Black community.

Guests: Brandi Grayson, Dr. Nakia Wiley

The Sandwich Generation

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Author Christy Byrne Yates talks with host Liza Hellenbrand about the “sandwich generation,” parents both raising children and caring for their parents.

Guests: Christy Byrne Yates

National Employees with Disabilities Month Roundtable

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 05 Oct 2023 01:00:00 +0000

It’s National Employees with Disabilities Month, and Liza is joined by Caden Crute, Delores Sallis, Sydney Badeau, and Rebecca Hoyt.

Guests: Caiden Crute, Delores Sallis, Liza Hellenbrand, Rebecca Hoyt, Sydney Badeau

Martin Schreiber and his caregiving story

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 28 Sep 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Summit Credit Union COO Rebecca Gerothanas joins the show to talk about financing and caregiving, then former Wisconsin Governor Martin Schreiber talks about his own experience in caregiving.

Guests: Martin Schreiber, Rebecca Gerothanas

What's the worst that can happen

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Consultant Lindsay Pinchuk joins the show to talk about having a work-life balance in caregiving, starting a business as a woman, and using social media to your advantage.

Guests: Lindsay Pinchuk

Navigating long-term care insurance

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Matt McCann joins host Liza Hellenbrand to talk about his journey to caregiving, and how to navigate the world of long-term care insurance.

Guests: Matt McCann

2023-09-06 Empowered Caregier

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 07 Sep 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Liza Hellenbrand is joined by Andy Thain with the Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities to discuss the struggles someone faces when trying to find a caregiver.

Guests: Andy Thain

Struggling with Alzheimer's

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Liza Hellenbrand is joined by Jennifer Nowak and Julie St. Pierre with the Alzheimer’s Association – Wisconsin Chapter to talk about what to watch out for with the disease, and how to care for a loved one with the disease.

Guests: Jennifer Nowak, Julie St Pierre

Civic Media roundtable on their experience in caregiving

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 17 Aug 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Liza holds a roundtable of Civic Media staff to tell their experience as a caregiver, featuring Mike Crute, Terri Barr, Will Walter, and Phill Nee.

Guests: Liza Hellenbrand, Mike Crute, Phil Nee, Phill Nee, Terri Barr, Will Walter

2023-08-09 Empowered Caregier

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 10 Aug 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Liza Hellenbrand discussing the caregivers crisis in our communities

Self Determination and More

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 03 Aug 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Liza is joined by Fil Clissa to discuss the upcoming Self Determination Conference. They discuss the power of self determination. Then, Liza and Fil discuss the Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities backing supported decision as an alternative to guardianship.

Guests: Fil Clissa

Acting in Care with the CARE Act

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 27 Jul 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Liza is joined by Bryn Ceman, Heidi Russell, and Patricia German to discuss the CARE act. In 42 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, the CARE Act has been signed into law and is either in effect or will be soon. Wisconsin is not one of them, but should it be?

The Disability Pride Festival with Dr. Nakia Wiley

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 20 Jul 2023 01:00:00 +0000

This week, Liza chats with Dr. Nakia Wiley about Madison’s 10th Annual Disability Pride Festival, happening on Saturday, July 29, 2023, at Warner Park from noon to 5, as well as what caregivers can learn from disabled folks who themselves are caretakers too. All this and more on the Empowered Caregiver.

Hope is a four letter word

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 13 Jul 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Kristin and Liza talk about what it means to hope. It may not be complicated, but there are many feelings distilled into those 4 letters. Hope is the last thing we lose.

Understand, support, care

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 29 Jun 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Kristin and Liza have a frank conversation about the importance of understanding one who’s in your care – and how it can make all the difference in helping to provide robust, meaningful interactions that make everybody healthier.

Fostering growth

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Kristin and Liza are joined by Ellen Merker to discuss Heart Consulting of Wisconsin. Ellen provides support and education to help reduce sexual and domestic violence against people with disabilities, with a focus on the person. It’s important to recognize that neuro-divergent people may WANT to be in intimate and sexual relationships – because everyone deserves happy and healthy connection in all it’s forms.

Guests: Ellen Merker

Healthy roots for change

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Kristin and Liza are joined by Jennifer Neugart and Sally Flaschberger from the Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities (WBPDD) to discuss the advantages afforded by participating in their programs due to the positive approach they have in empowering self advocates and family caregivers. These two guests work to create strong grassroots leaders through their Partners in Policy Making Program. Join us to learn how their continued efforts assist in addressing the needs of those with disabilities and the caregivers who support them!

Guests: Jennifer Neugart, Sally Flaschiberger

Greater resources for our aging and able

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Kristin and LIza are joined by Janet Zander of the Greater Wisconsin Agency for on Aging Resources(GWAAR) to discuss programs for the aging that are available state=wide, in all counties and for all tribes.

Guests: Janet Zander

In between the mind and body

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 25 May 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Kristin and Liza discuss how a healthy mind and body extends beyond a healthy lifestyle, and into a lifetime of relationships, trauma and stress.

Caring and feeling

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 18 May 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Liza and Kristin talk with Max Wesenberg to discuss a developing alternative for pain management in some patients, and talk about resources for empowering independence in loved ones.

Share the LOV

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 11 May 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Kristin and Liza are joined by Virginia Harrison and Alejandra Espejo of LOV Inc to discuss the programs that Living Our Visions Inclusively (LOV) has developed to provide effective programming for a world in which the needs of loved ones are ensured to be looked after for the future.

Guests: Alejandra Espejo, Virignia Harrison

Strongest foot forward

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Kristin and Liza are joined by author, speaker and industry leader Lynn Abate-Johnson about her newest project. Also joining, is Angela Howard; Founder and CEO of Call to Culture. These threads tie together nicely, and might just carry your weight when you need it most.

Guests: Angela Howard, Lynn Abate-Johnson

On the tightrope

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 20 Apr 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Kristin and LIza talk with Madison representative Alex Joers about local caregiving advocacy, and Lynn Abate Johnson about her newly released book about the balancing act caregivers are having to endure in America today. Learn more at www.LynnAbateJohnsonBook.com

Guests: Alex Joers, Lynn Abate-Johnson

1,000 to 1

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Kristin and LIza are joined by Wisconsin’s Governor Tony Evers to discuss the legislative logjam in our State’s Capital. Caregiving advocacy is not a partisan mission, and Wisconsin has the resources to make real change – its just a matter of clearing the path. Next, Nichiole Goble, representing CAN – the Caregiver Action Network, comes by to discuss the Caregiving Warriors on the front lines, doing everything they can to ready the troops for locating resources and services that can make all the difference.

Guests: Nichole Goble, Tony Evers

Approaching the limit

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 06 Apr 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Kristin and Liza are joined by Tami Jackson of Wisconsin BPDD to discuss how all Wisconsin citizens play a part in providing quality special education in the state – and how it affects everybody, too. Also discussed is the oncoming disaster of a shortage of direct service care workers are casting the future of quality care for our loved ones in to question. But all is not lost, listen for what we can do to change course.

Guests: Tammi Jackson

Powerful Tools

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 30 Mar 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Kristin and Liza are joined by Naomi Meinertz and Melisa Rader, from Iowa State University, about the Powerful Tools For Caregivers course and why it’s so important. Join us and learn what YOU can do to take care of your own well being.

Guests: Malisa Rader, Naomi Meinertz

Caring for healthy lives

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 23 Mar 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Today we are joined by Senator LaTonya Johnson, State Rep. Jenna Jacobson, and Hyvee Groceries Nutritionist Aryn DeGrave to discuss advocating for those in your care, developing effective guidelines at the state level, and discuss services offered by Hyvee’s resident nutritionist and dietician – available to you!

Guests: Aryn DeGrave, Jenna Jacobson, LaTonya Johnson

Living with grief

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 16 Mar 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Liza and Kristin speak with Edy Nathan, a grief therapist, author, and speaker about the many ways grief can wreak havok on one’s life – and the ways grief can lend valuable insight for personal growth. We also speak with Megan Ramstack of American’s with Parkinson’s Disease of Wisconsin Chapter about some exciting events and missions coming this year.

Guests: Edy Nathan, Megan Ramstack

Angel's Advocates

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 09 Mar 2023 02:00:00 +0000

Kristin and Liza talk advocating for legislative change around caregiving today – Barbara Beckert of Disability Rights Wisconsin and State Senator Dianne Hesselbein discuss the challenges – and rewards – involved with legislative advocacy.

Guests: Barbara Beckert, Dianne Hesselbein

Desks and Minds

Liza Hellenbrand — Mon, 06 Mar 2023 19:00:00 +0000

Kristin and Liza talk with Melissa Ratcliff, a representative from the 46th District, about how our reps are doing the hard work of making sure caregivers are seen and heard. They also speak with Julie Coraccio, and award winning professional organizer, author, speaker and certified life coach from Wheeling, West Virginia to learn recognizing and clearing clutter in their lives – both physical and emotional.

Guests: Julie Coraccio, Melissa Ratcliff

The party at work

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 23 Feb 2023 02:00:00 +0000

Today Liza and Kristin talk to Evan Goyke, Representative for the 18th assembly district, Oshkosh’s current mayor and a Representative from the 54th district Lori Palmeri, and lastly speak with Michelle Dickinson – a caregiver, mental health advocate, TED speaker, and published author of ‘Breaking Into My LIfe’, a memoir.

Guests: Evan Goyke, Lori Palmeri, Michelle Dickinson

Arts for Everyone

Liza Hellenbrand — Fri, 03 Feb 2023 02:00:00 +0000

Arts for All talks with Kristin and LIza about how they’re supports those with disabilities, memory, veterans and more in artistic expression. Also, Tim Markle from The forgiveness Factor helps us learn more about the power of forgiveness.

Guests: Chrstina Martin-Wright, Tim Markle

Lets talk about 'IT

Liza Hellenbrand — Thu, 26 Jan 2023 02:00:00 +0000

Let’s have some fun –

Let’s talk about sex! Well… at least how you can strengthen your marriage and intimacy while being a family caregiver! Join us as we speak with Monica Lynne Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMHCA from Snoqualmie, WA

Compassion - Apply Liberally

Liza Hellenbrand — Fri, 20 Jan 2023 02:00:00 +0000

Kristin and Liza discuss how sometimes the most difficult person to care for is yourself. After all, you can’t care for anybody if you can’t care for yourself.

Using the tools at hand

Liza Hellenbrand — Fri, 13 Jan 2023 02:00:00 +0000

Kristin and Liza are joined by Molly Cooney and Tami Jackson of the Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities to discuss caregiving from a more administrative angle. Maneuvering through bureaucratic red tape and legislative jargon is headache inducing, but it’s critical to understanding – and providing – care in the state you live.

Guests: Molly Cooney, Tami Jackson

Proactive care in the world today

Liza Hellenbrand — Fri, 06 Jan 2023 02:00:00 +0000

Kristin and Liza are joined by Jessica Cannon, author of ‘The Proactive Caregiver’. We discuss the transition into caregiving roles, coming to terms with a different way of life, and being proactive in the name of providing the best possible care – both for you and those being cared for.

Guests: Jessica Cannon

All in the Family

Liza Hellenbrand — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 02:00:00 +0000

On a special episode of The Empowered Caregiver, Liza is joined by her husband Mike Crute and her son Cayden to discuss Cayden’s autism diagnosis, the challenges associated with learning so much so fast, and the ever growing list of reasons they feel so blessed.

Guests: Mike Crute

Dropping the 'dis' to focus on 'ability'

Liza Hellenbrand — Fri, 09 Dec 2022 02:00:00 +0000

Today Kristin and Liza are joined by two organizations who represent the Down Syndrome Community. The first half of the show is spent with Rachel Reit and Nick Bower from the Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin-South-Central, and the second half they speak with Kelly Antonson from Gigi’s Playhouse, a non-profit focused on providing services to families caring for differently-abled loved ones.

Guests: Kelly Antonson, Nick Bower, Rachel Reit

Resources to enrich your care-giving experience

Liza Hellenbrand — Fri, 02 Dec 2022 02:00:00 +0000

Kristin and Liza are joined by Ruth Schriefer, a professor at UW-Madison Division of Extension in Iowa County, and Shelly Reukauf & Valerie Hiltbrand from the Aging Disability Resource Center of Iowa County to discuss Healthy Aging in Rural Towns.

Guests: Ruth Schriefer, Shelly Reukauf, Valerie Hiltbrand

The Empowered Caregiver Show

Liza Hellenbrand — Fri, 18 Nov 2022 02:00:00 +0000

In our last episode of November, we continue honoring the amazing people providing care for clients and loved ones alike. We speak with:

Nancy Alar

Liz Alar

Julie Heibel

Neil Miller

Patrick Kuelz

Reid and Leah Kuelz, and Genevieve Poppe –

about the caregivers in their lives, and the tremendous work they do. Thanks for listening to The Empowered Caregiver!

We’re taking next week to spend thanksgiving with friends, family and loved ones. We will return on December 1st for another hour of The Empowered Caregiver show.

Guests: Genevieve Poppe, Julie Heibel, Leah Kuelz, Liz Alar, Nancy Alar, Neil Miller, Patrick Kuelz, Reid Kuelz

Caregiver Appreciation Month Awards!

Liza Hellenbrand — Fri, 11 Nov 2022 02:00:00 +0000

This hour, Kristin and Liza bring on several caregivers who have been nominated to be recognized for their incredible dedication and love for their families. The family and friends of these caregivers have written letters to demonstrate the impact they make on everyone around them, and we hear the award winners’ reactions live.

Congratulations to Karl Pierick, Sharon Katovich, and Fay Losso! They are an inspiration to us all, and they have each won a caregiver gift box from Allison at The Negative Space. You can check out her website here: www.thenegativespace.life

#CaregivingHappens

It's almost Caregiver Appreciation Month!

Liza Hellenbrand — Fri, 28 Oct 2022 01:00:00 +0000

This hour, Kristin and Liza give us a rundown on Caregiver Appreciation Month, and talk about experiences that made them slow and down and appreciate themselves. Thanks for listening to The Empowered Caregiver!

Champions of Caregiving

Liza Hellenbrand — Fri, 21 Oct 2022 01:00:00 +0000

In this jam packed hour with The Empowered Caregiver Show, Kristin and Liza hear from the people behind some of our most innovative care programs.

We speak with Larry Jackson, the founder of the Ben Jackson foundation. Younger enlisted personnel know a thing or two about paying for flights and other travel expenses – and the difficulties they experience. Larry aims to make sure that new military members are able to take a trip home to see family and loved ones – especially after beginning such a long journey.

Adam Weisse talks about Project Home. This program aims to improve the quality and affordability of housing for low-to-moderate income residents in Dane and Green County, WI.

Kristin and Liza also talk with Lani Rethaber about Patriot K9’s of Wisconsin – A program aiming to, at no cost to qualified Veterans, educate and train Psychiatric Service Dog Teams who will assist in veterans attaining a fulfilling and meaningful life in the community of their choice. It is their goal to help veterans win the war against suicide, depression and anxiety by empowering them with the use of a service dog,

Empowered Caregivers come together

Liza Hellenbrand — Fri, 14 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Thanks for listening to The Empowered Caregiver Show!

Kristin and Liza are joined by Linda Fodrini-Johnson – an aging expert, family therapist and author of ‘The Empowered Caregiver; Practical Advice and Emotional Support for Adult Children of Aging Parents’. She was president of the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers (now called Aging Life Care Association). Linda also founded Eldercare Services, a full service care agency in the San Francisco Bay Area that provides care management, home caregiving services, advocacy, counseling, support groups and education.

Formerly the director Dementia Respite Center, Linda pioneered the multi-award willing Early Stage of Dementia Program.

Join us!

Guests: Linda Fodrini-Johnson

Love Your Caregiving Life

Liza Hellenbrand — Fri, 07 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Charlotte Bayala from Love Your Caregiving Life. Charlotte is a Podcaster, Caregiver Coach, and offers a monthly subscription to caregivers and montly group Zoom meetings to keep her followers connected.

Guests: Charlotte Bayala

Caregiver Benefit Of Pet Ownership

Liza Hellenbrand — Fri, 30 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Listen as we talk about about all things dogs! Learn about the health benefits of pet ownership for caregivers and the people they care for.

Guests: Cheryl Hartung, Lisa Bernard, Susan Kurowski

Caregiving While Employed

Liza Hellenbrand — Fri, 23 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Listen as we talk about caregiver burnout and what we can do about it.

Care-giving is a job in-of-itself

Liza Hellenbrand — Fri, 16 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Thanks for listening to The Empowered Caregiver Community!

Today Kristin and Liza discuss the reality of modern society – that we’re living longer, and care giving responsibilities are resting on the shoulders of friends and family members: for all kinds of reasons. From the startling economic consequences of lost wages due to conflicts with work, to lack of understanding between employee and employer – let’s talk about it.

Caregiver Interview With Dr. Barry Jacobs

Liza Hellenbrand — Fri, 09 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Thanks for listening to The Empowered Caregiver Community!

Kristin and Liza are joined by Dr. Barry Jacobs – a clinical psychologist, family therapist and author of “The Emotional Survival Guide for Caregivers—Looking After Yourself and Your Family While Helping an Aging Parent”.

Visit www.loveandmeaning.com for more information, content, and resources from Dr. Barry Jacobs.

Guests: Barry Jacobs

Harriet Redman, Founder of Wisconsibs

Liza Hellenbrand — Sat, 27 Aug 2022 13:00:51 +0000

WisconSibs offers peer support, education, social activities and leadership opportunities to children, teens and adults who have siblings with special needs or long-term illnesses

Guests: Harriet Redman

The Empowered Caregiver Community - Aug. 20

Liza Hellenbrand — Sat, 20 Aug 2022 13:00:57 +0000

Thanks for tuning into The Empowered Caregiver Community! Today Kristin and Liza are joined by Robin Schnitzler from Relationship Therapy of Madison. Robin focuses on reclaiming connection, empowered parenting, co-parenting and parenting challenging children.

Susanne White and The Caregiver Warrior

Liza Hellenbrand — Sat, 30 Jul 2022 13:00:55 +0000

Thanks for tuning into The Empowered Caregiver Community!

Today we’re joined by Susanne White, an Author from The Caregiver Warrior, an organization focused not only on self-care, but empowering caregivers to be Fearless, Courageous, and Passionate about protecting those they care for.

Guests: Susanne White