Inspired Caring

Michele Magner

If you are helping out an aging family member, this is the place for you! Here, you will find inspiration, tools and resources that are needed to be prepared to take care of your loved one AND yourself along this caregiving journey. Michele Magner is a family caregiver, Gerontologist, Certified Dementia Practitioner, Professor and has worked in the Senior Living Industry. She knows that everything we do today, impacts our own aging outcomes so she created the Inspired Caring Family Support & Education Program. Today is the day to be inspired! www.michelemagner.com michele@michelemagner.com

  1. 6D AGO

    205. Empowering Women Through Financial Education: Dream Money with Megan Hale

    Summary In this enlightening conversation, Michele Magner speaks with Megan Hale about the unique relationship women have with money and the importance of financial education. They explore Megan's journey in creating Dream Money, a platform designed to empower women to build healthy relationships with their finances. The discussion covers various themes, including the significance of understanding personal finance, the concept of minimum viable revenue, the necessity of support and delegation, and the duality of wealth and generosity. Megan emphasizes the importance of both financial skills and mindset shifts in achieving financial confidence and success. If you have a business, this episode is for you. If you do NOT have a business, this episode is for you too! Keywords money, women, financial education, Dream Money, money mindset, financial skills, entrepreneurship, support, wealth, personal finance Takeaways Women have unique relationships with money that can be complicated. Understanding personal finance is crucial for empowerment. The concept of minimum viable revenue helps in financial planning. Support and delegation are essential for managing multiple roles. Mindset shifts are necessary to overcome financial anxiety. Financial skills are as important as money mindset. Reading and education can transform financial understanding. Building intimacy with money can change one's relationship with it. Wealth can coexist with a desire to help others. Balancing masculine and feminine energies can enhance financial success. Sound bites "Women have unique relationships with money." "The and is the bridge to expand." "Don't do money alone; seek mentorship." Chapters 00:00 Understanding Women's Unique Relationship with Money 05:05 Megan's Journey to Financial Empowerment 11:10 Navigating Financial Anxiety in Today's Economy 16:47 The Importance of Investing in Yourself 23:04 Resources for Financial Growth and Mindset 25:16 Mindset and Financial Leadership 26:10 Building Intimacy with Money 30:20 Reframing Debt and Financial Relationships 32:09 The Duality of Wealth and Service 34:30 Navigating Capitalism and Feminine Energy 40:35 Empowering Women Through Financial Education 42:52 Introducing Dream Money Program 47:38 The Importance of Mentorship in Financial Growth 49:27 Podcast Intro Music Project (MASTER BOUNCE - OUTRO).mp3 Connect with Megan Hale: Dream Money Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Resources Megan Shared: Sacred Success by Barbara Stanny Profit First by Mike Michalowicz Money, A Love Story by Kate Northrup Wild & Holy Radio Podcast Playlists: Lo-fi beats & Taylor Swift Inspired Caring is THE family support & education program that helps families feel calm and confident to make better decisions faster. Inspired Caring is offered as an annual membership tobusinesses to provide for the families they work with. Connect with Michele Magner: WebsiteE-mailInstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeCustom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. He does custom songs for any occasion.

    50 min
  2. 2025-12-26

    204. Caregiving Resilience, Hope, & Empowerment with Debbie Weiss

    Summary In this conversation, Debbie Weiss shares her profound journey as a caregiver, starting from her teenage years when she took on the responsibility of caring for her father after his stroke. She discusses the emotional challenges and the evolution of her caregiving roles, including caring for her son with autism and her husband with terminal cancer. Throughout the conversation, Debbie emphasizes the importance of hope, self-discovery, and empowerment in the face of adversity. She also highlights her journey of writing books as a therapeutic outlet and her aspirations to inspire others through her experiences. Takeaways Debbie became her father's full-time caregiver at a young age. Navigating healthcare systems can be overwhelming for young caregivers. Caregiving can lead to a shift in family dynamics and relationships. The emotional toll of caregiving can lead to feelings of grief and loss. Finding hope amidst struggles is crucial for caregivers. Self-discovery often comes from challenging experiences. Shifting from a victim mentality to empowerment is transformative. Writing can serve as a therapeutic outlet for caregivers. Creating a positive mindset is essential for personal growth. Debbie aims to inspire others through her journey and future projects. Sound bites "I lost my father. He wasn't the same person." "I had to take away the victim mentality." "I discovered I love creating." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 00:58 The Caregiving Journey Begins 03:47 Navigating Different Caregiving Scenarios 06:46 The Impact of Caregiving on Relationships 10:10 Finding Hope Amidst Challenges 12:54 Personal Growth Through Caregiving 15:46 Transforming Victimhood into Empowerment 24:02 Rediscovering Identity at 50 27:26 Shifting from Victim Mentality to Empowerment 28:46 Tackling Weight and Self-Worth 33:51 Mindset Changes and Long-Term Success 36:31 The Journey to Writing a Book 42:08 Finding Purpose Through Writing 47:47 Embracing Creativity and Future Aspirations 51:55 Podcast Intro Music Project (MASTER BOUNCE - OUTRO).mp3 Keywords caregiving, personal growth, resilience, mental health, hope, self-discovery, empowerment, writing, inspiration, support Connect with Debbie:  ⁠⁠Website⁠⁠ The Sprinkle Effect Book  The Sprinkle Effect Workbook The Sprinkle Effect Card Deck On Second Thought Maybe I can - Inspired Caring is THE family support & education program that helps families feel calm and confident to make better decisions faster. Inspired Caring is offered as an annual membership tobusinesses to provide for the families they work with. Connect with Michele Magner: Website: www.InspiredCaring.comE-mail: hello@inspiredcaring.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspiredcaring/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michele.magner.90LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-magner-60a99089/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@inspiredcaringwithmichelem3138Custom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. He does custom songs for any occasion.

    52 min
  3. 2025-12-19

    203. Hospital Discharge Process - Behind The Scenes with Steph Madej

    Summary: In this episode, Michele Magner discusses the complexities of the hospital discharge process with Nurse, Steph Madej. They explore the process of who is involved, what constitutes a safe discharge plan, the role of insurance and Medicare, the importance of family involvement, and the challenges of navigating referrals and resources. They also introduce EverBlessed Nursing and Transport, a service aimed at providing personalized care and support for elderly patients post-discharge. Takeaways Families often struggle with understanding the discharge process. A safe discharge plan includes various factors like medication management and home support. The hospital discharge team consists of doctors, nurses, social workers, and therapists. Medicare requires specific criteria for coverage of rehabilitation services. Referrals for rehab are sent out based on patient readiness and insurance approval. Family involvement is crucial in assessing the patient's needs and safety. Difficult conversations about care options are often necessary with families. Post-discharge resources are essential to prevent readmission to the hospital. Frequent hospital visits indicate a need for additional support and resources. EverBlessed Nursing and Transport aims to fill gaps in care for elderly patients. Sound Bites "It's important to have a solid plan." "We can't force people to do anything." "We want the best for each person." Chapters 00:00 Understanding the Hospital Discharge Process 07:02 Navigating Medicare and Rehab Options 12:58 Referral Processes and Challenges 19:36 Tough Conversations with Families 26:03 The Role of Family in Care Decisions 32:58 Introducing EverBlessed Nursing and Transport 44:00 Final Thoughts for Families 45:50 Connecting with Steph Madej 46:33 Podcast Intro Music Project (MASTER BOUNCE - OUTRO).mp3 Keywords hospital discharge, healthcare, Medicare, insurance, family support, nursing, rehabilitation, patient care, social work, healthcare resources Connect with Steph: Facebook E-mail: everblessednandt@gmail.com Inspired Caring is THE family support & education program that helps families feel calm and confident to make better decisions faster. Inspired Caring is also offered as an annual membership tobusinesses to provide for the families they work with. Connect with Michele Magner: Website: www.InspiredCaring.comE-mail: hello@inspiredcaring.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspiredcaring/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michele.magner.90LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-magner-60a99089/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@inspiredcaringwithmichelem3138Custom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. He does custom songs for any occasion.

    47 min
  4. 2025-11-22

    202. Straight Talk on Top 4 TOUGH Topics with Kelley Brady

    Summary In this conversation, Michele Magner interviews Kelley Brady, a seasoned geriatric nurse, who shares her extensive experience in senior care and the evolution of dementia care practices. They discuss the 4 key 'speeches' she would frequently share with family members, tough conversations, but critical in senior care: 1)the nuances of DNR versus full code decisions 2)the concept of memory care as a form of freedom 3)you don't accidentally stumble into Hospice care 4)the 21-day habit formation for residents in memory care and the importance of managing family expectations during transitions. Kelley's insights provide valuable guidance for caregivers navigating the complexities of geriatric care. Takeaways Dementia care practices have evolved significantly over the years. Understanding the difference between DNR and full code is crucial for families. Memory care can provide a sense of freedom for residents. Safety is the primary concern when considering assisted living. It takes 21 days for new habits to form, even for those with dementia. Family visits should be managed to reduce anxiety for residents. Outings should be familiar and enjoyable for residents with dementia. Informed choices in hospice care can greatly impact quality of life. Open communication with healthcare providers is essential for effective care. Keywords geriatric nursing, dementia care, mental health, DNR, memory care, assisted living, hospice care, family caregiving, end-of-life conversations, healthcare choices Sound bites "Memory care spells freedom." "We're talking about today." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Geriatric Nursing Journey 06:06 Evolution of Dementia Care Practices 12:18 Understanding DNR vs Full Code 17:23 The Freedom of Memory Care 22:54 Signs for Assisted Living Consideration 26:39 The 21-Day Habit Formation 33:15 Engaging Families in Care 35:06 The Power of Engagement in Care 41:16 Navigating Social Interactions and Comfort Zones 43:28 Empowering Families Through Education 50:33 Understanding Hospice Care and Its Importance 54:45 Quality of Life vs. Quantity of Life 59:42 Exploring Death Cafes and Palliative Care Options 01:07:56 Podcast Intro Music Project (MASTER BOUNCE - OUTRO).mp3 Resources Teepa Snow, Positive Approach to Care David Kessler, Remember With More Love Than Pain Lionetti Law The Gentle Art of Swedish Art of Death Cleaning on Peacock Death Cafes Death Doula Natalie Bolen (or on Instagram) Death Doula Jenni Herchenbach, Flourish Collaborative Before the Casket, Amy Hensley Playlist: Tyler Childs Inspired Caring is THE family support & education program that helps families feel calm and confident to make better decisions faster. Inspired Caring is also offered as an annual membership to businesses to provide for the families they work with. Connect with Michele Magner: Website: www.InspiredCaring.comE-mail: hello@inspiredcaring.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspiredcaring/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michele.magner.90LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-magner-60a99089/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@inspiredcaringwithmichelem3138Custom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. He does custom songs for any occasion. *Disclaimer - always work with healthcare providers and licensed professionals who know the situation on any decisions being made for what is appropriate for you and your loved one.

    1h 8m
  5. 2025-11-14

    201. Cognitive Assessments with Neuropsychologist Dr. Lindy Fields

    Summary In this conversation, Dr. Lindy Fields, a neuropsychologist, discusses the importance of cognitive assessments for individuals experiencing cognitive concerns. The conversation covers various aspects of cognitive health, including the process of getting assessed, the role of neuropsychological testing, the significance of lifestyle changes for brain health, and the impact of stress and caregiving on cognitive function. Dr. Fields emphasizes the need for early intervention, ways to initiate this conversation, and provides practical strategies for maintaining cognitive health, ultimately highlighting the importance of understanding and addressing cognitive changes for both individuals and their families. Takeaways People often jump to conclusions about dementia too quickly. Various health conditions can impact cognition, not just dementia. Documenting cognitive changes can help healthcare providers. Cognitive screenings are initial assessments, not definitive diagnoses. Neuropsychological assessments provide a comprehensive evaluation. Lifestyle changes can significantly impact brain health. Stress management is crucial for cognitive well-being. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes for cognitive health. Support systems are essential for caregivers and individuals with cognitive concerns. Education about brain health is vital for families. Keywords cognitive assessment, neuropsychology, dementia, brain health, lifestyle changes, caregiving, early intervention, neuropsychological testing, cognitive disorders, mental health Chapters 00:00 Understanding Cognitive Concerns 03:45 Navigating Assessments and Screenings 06:59 The Role of Neuropsychological Testing 09:44 Interpreting Test Results and Next Steps 12:36 Lifestyle Changes for Brain Health 15:55 The Impact of Alcohol on Cognition 18:44 Addressing Cognitive Changes in Aging 21:50 The Connection Between Parkinson's and Dementia 24:43 The Importance of Early Assessment 27:33 Creating a Supportive Environment 30:21 Final Thoughts on Cognitive Health 53:32 Podcast Intro Music Project (MASTER BOUNCE - OUTRO).mp3 Important Update: Dr. Lindy Fields has transitioned to a clinical role for a large organization and is no longer accepting private patients. MIND Diet DASH Eating Plan Inspired Caring is THE family support & education program that helps families feel calm and confident to make better decisions faster. Inspired Caring is also offered as an annual membership tobusinesses to provide for the families they work with. Connect with Michele Magner: Website: www.InspiredCaring.comE-mail: hello@inspiredcaring.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspiredcaring/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michele.magner.90LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-magner-60a99089/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@inspiredcaringwithmichelem3138Custom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. He does custom songs for any occasion.

    54 min
  6. 2025-11-07

    200. Be Light Care: A Conversation with Adria Thompson

    Summary In this conversation, Michele Magner welcomes Adria Thompson, a speech language pathologist and founder of Be Light Care. We go behind the scenes with Adria, who has created 400+ videos sharing specific hands on care tips for assisting someone who is living with dementia. Guiding 500,000+ caregivers across her platforms, she is changing the every day lives of individuals and trajectory of dementia care. Adria shares her journey in the field, the importance of understanding and advocating for individuals living with dementia, and the challenges caregivers face. They explore the impact of public perception on caregiving decisions, the need for empathy and support, and the significance of education in dementia care. Adria emphasizes the importance of listening to the experiences of those living with dementia and advocates for a more compassionate approach to caregiving. Takeaways Be Light Care was founded to provide resources and training for caregivers. Understanding dementia requires empathy and effective communication strategies. Public perception can heavily influence caregiving decisions and experiences. Caregivers often face backlash for their choices regarding care placement. Education in dementia care should emphasize the human experience behind the condition. Listening to individuals living with dementia is crucial for effective care. Cultural differences impact how dementia care is approached and perceived. There is hope for a more compassionate society towards individuals with dementia. Caregivers should be acknowledged and supported for their dedication and hard work. Sound bites "Caregiving is a double-edged sword." "Trust caregivers, trust caregivers." "You're seen and you're not alone." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Adria Thompson and Be Like Care 03:44 Adria's Journey as a Speech Language Pathologist 06:27 Creating Accessible Dementia Care Content 09:01 The Impact of Emma Heming Willis' Story 12:05 Understanding Caregiver Decisions and Public Perception 15:44 The Importance of Trusting Caregivers 17:28 Innovations in Dementia Education 20:35 Empathy in Dementia Care 23:04 Research and Perspectives from People Living with Dementia 26:14 Hope for the Future of Aging and Care 29:09 Hogeweyk®Dementia Village & Cultural Differences in Dementia Care 31:09 The Balance of Risk in Caregiving 33:48 Final Thoughts and Messages for Caregivers 46:06 Podcast Intro Music Project (MASTER BOUNCE -OUTRO).mp3 Keywords dementia care, caregiving, speech language pathology, BeLight Care, Adria Thompson, dementia resources, caregiver support, education in dementia, public perception of dementia, human experience in dementia Adria’s TedX "Why We Should Talk About Dementia" Follow Adria with Be Light Care on: Instagram Facebook TikTokWebsiteLinkedIn Inspired Caring is THE family support & education program that helps families feel calm and confident to make better decisions faster. Inspired Caring is also offered as an annual membership to businesses to provide for the families they work with. Connect with Michele Magner: Website: www.InspiredCaring.comE-mail: hello@inspiredcaring.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspiredcaring/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michele.magner.90LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-magner-60a99089/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@inspiredcaringwithmichelem3138Custom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. He does custom songs for any occasion.

    46 min
  7. 2025-10-31

    199. Ultimate Body Experience (UBX) Omaha with Luke Shook

    Summary Entrepreneur and Gym owner Luke Shook takesus on the journey of transforming the fitness industry through his gym UBX Omaha. With a focus for ordinary people getting extraordinary results being the first gym to “focus on your organs not your waistline”. In this conversation, Luke shares his journey in the fitnessindustry, discussing the founding of his gym, UBX, and his philosophy on personal training. He emphasizes the importance of bio-individuality in health and fitness, the significance of nutrition, and the role of strength training in promoting longevity. Luke also highlights the challenges of motivation andthe importance of community support in achieving fitness goals. The discussion concludes with encouragement for individuals to take the first step towards ahealthier lifestyle. At UBX they understand that taking the first steps towardsbeing a healthier, happier person can be very intimidating. It involves making sacrifices and prioritizing your life to make exercise and healthy eating habits an everyday focus. At Ultimate Body Experience their mission is to make the transition as easy as possible.   Takeaways Performance anxiety is common, but often unfounded. Transformational experiences can come from trying newthings. Nutrition is crucial for fitness success. Strength training is vital for longevity, especially inwomen. Mindset plays a significant role in overcoming obstacles. Community support enhances motivation and accountability. Bio-individuality means everyone has unique health needs. Taking the first step is essential for progress. Keywords fitness, personal training, nutrition, bio-individuality,strength training, health, wellness, motivation, community, longevity Sound bites "I was scared to walk in the gym." "You have to try something, anything." "You can't start if you don't try it." Chapters 00:00 The Journey Begins: Overcoming Pre-Live Anxiety 02:47 From 24 Hour Fitness to UBX: The Birth of a Gym 06:58 Building a Community: The Evolution of UBX 09:19 Navigating Challenges: The Impact of COVID-19 11:42 Bio Individuality: Understanding Unique Health Needs 15:55 Nutrition Matters: The Role of Food in Fitness 21:02 Detoxification: A Daily Ritual for Health 26:18 The Race of Life: Balancing Health and Pleasure 27:41 Transforming Fitness: From Intensity to Longevity 32:42 The Importance of Controlled Stress in Workouts 38:38 Coaching Through Setbacks: Building Resilience 45:36 Empowering Women: The Necessity of Strength Training 51:22 Taking the First Step: Overcoming Inertia in Fitness 53:10 Podcast Intro Music Project (MASTER BOUNCE -OUTRO).mp3   Connect with Luke at UBX OmahaPhone: 402-934-2348   As Mentioned: Jason Ott with Empowered Prevention is the Author of the book No Cure, No Problem: The Art of Healing Inspired Caringis THE family support & education program that helps families feel calm and confident to make better decisions faster. Inspired Caring is also offered as an annual membership tobusinesses to provide for the families they work with. Connect with Michele Magner: Website: www.InspiredCaring.comE-mail: hello@inspiredcaring.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspiredcaring/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michele.magner.90LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-magner-60a99089/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@inspiredcaringwithmichelem3138Custom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. He does custom songs for any occasion.

    53 min
  8. 2025-10-24

    198. Understanding Loss & Layers of Grief with Dr. Alan Harris

    Summary In this episode of Inspired Caring, MicheleMagner speaks with Dr. Alan Harris about the complexities of grief and transitions in life. They explore various types of grief, including anticipatory and ambiguous loss, and discuss the often overlooked concept of disenfranchised grief. Alan shares insights on secondary losses that accompany primary grief and emphasizes the importance of spirituality in finding meaningthrough loss. The conversation also touches on practical approaches to downsizing and letting go of possessions, highlighting the emotional aspects of these processes.   Takeaways Grief can stem from various types of loss, not just death. Anticipatory grief occurs when we know a loss is coming. Ambiguous loss can be particularly challenging to navigate. Disenfranchised grief is often minimized by society. Secondary losses can be just as impactful as primary losses. Spirituality can help individuals find meaning in theirgrief. Letting go of possessions can be a significant part of thegrieving process. It's important to support those experiencing grief withoutminimizing their feelings. Grief is a natural response to change and loss. Finding new ways to be family after a loss is essential forhealing. Sound bites "Change equals loss equals grief." "We grieve for what could have been." "Love is a verb; love is what we do." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Grief and Transitions 01:54 Alan Harris's Background and Experience 04:32 Understanding Grief: Definitions and Types 07:53 Exercises in Grief Awareness 11:43 Anticipatory and Ambiguous Loss 15:21 Disenfranchised Grief: Understanding Unrecognized Loss 17:50 Supporting Others in Their Grief Journey 21:03 Exploring Secondary Losses 27:27 Finding Meaning and Purpose After Loss 29:23 The Intersection of Love and Loss 34:31 Navigating Family Dynamics in Grief 38:06 The Challenge of Downsizing and Right-Sizing 49:08 Stages of Pre-Death Cleaning and Life Review 53:31 Embracing Growth Through Release Dr. Alan D. Harris  For the past twenty years, Dr. Alan Harris has served as a healthcare chaplain in hospitals, hospices, and long-term care. An Associate of the Order of the Holy Cross (Episcopal), he holds a certificate in spiritual companionship. He has earned master’s degrees in counseling and business, and a doctorate in theology.  Dr. Harris is also certified as a grief specialist who hasconducted hundreds of funerals, memorial services, and celebrations of life. Not once has he ever seen a hearse pulling a U-Haul trailer at a funeral or a graveside service. In addition, Dr. Harris writes of what he knows personally, as he has managed his parents’ and siblings’ possessions after their deaths, and has since benefitted from doing his own pre-death cleaning. Connect with Dr. Alan Harris Website: ⁠https://monktrunkjunk.com/⁠Email: ⁠alan@monktrunkjunk.com⁠ Inspired Caring is THE family support & education program that helps families feel calm and confident to make better decisions faster. Inspired Caring is also offered as an annual membership tobusinesses to provide for the families they work with. Connect with Michele Magner: Website: www.InspiredCaring.comE-mail: hello@inspiredcaring.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspiredcaring/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michele.magner.90LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-magner-60a99089/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@inspiredcaringwithmichelem3138Custom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. He does custom songs for any occasion.

    56 min

About

If you are helping out an aging family member, this is the place for you! Here, you will find inspiration, tools and resources that are needed to be prepared to take care of your loved one AND yourself along this caregiving journey. Michele Magner is a family caregiver, Gerontologist, Certified Dementia Practitioner, Professor and has worked in the Senior Living Industry. She knows that everything we do today, impacts our own aging outcomes so she created the Inspired Caring Family Support & Education Program. Today is the day to be inspired! www.michelemagner.com michele@michelemagner.com

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