CareLab

CareLab
  • 4.9 (7)
  • HEALTH & FITNESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Feeling a little.... squished? Find some relief with CareLab! Hosted by two members of the "Sandwich generation" (who also happen to be occupational therapists), CareLab takes a lighthearted look into some of the biggest issues affecting function, safety, (sanity), and quality of life. Disclaimer: The CareLab podcast does not provide health or medical advice. All content is provided for informational purposes only. Listeners are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider for specific healthcare advice, and are wholly responsible for the outcome of implementing any information.

  1. 3D AGO

    Stroke Recovery Has Without An Expiration Date??? The Science Rewriting What’s Possible

    What if stroke recovery didn’t have an expiration date? In this episode of CareLab, Emilia and Brandy sit down with occupational therapist, Ashley Mahoney, to explore cutting-edge advances that are redefining what’s possible years—even decades—after a stroke. Can vagus nerve stimulation - with high-intensity, task-specific rehab - challenge the long-held belief that recovery plateaus after the first year?You’ll hear real-world clinical insights, candid discussions about who this technology is (and isn’t) right for, and powerful examples of functional gains that go far beyond theory—like regaining the ability to shake hands, reduce caregiver burden, and reclaim meaningful daily activities. Whether you’re a stroke survivor, caregiver, or rehab professional, this episode offers hope grounded in science, clear expectations, and a roadmap for advocating for advanced recovery options when progress once seemed out of reach. Learn more about Vivistim and stroke recovery at https://www.vivistim.com/Find Care Equipment solutions at https://www.asksamie.com/Find Caregiver Training at https://www.higherstandardscaregivertraining.com/https://www.carelabpodcast.com/Disclaimer: The following CareLab podcast does not provide health or medical advice. All content is provided for informational purposes only. Listeners are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider for specific healthcare advice, and are wholly responsible for the outcome of implementing any tips or information presented.

    38 min

  2. JAN 16

    “This Is an Awkward Conversation”: Talking About Hygiene With Someone You Love

    Noticing hygiene or safety concerns in someone you care about can stop you in your tracks—because how do you bring it up without embarrassing them or damaging the relationship? In this episode of CareLab, Brandy and Emilia are joined by occupational therapist and Toilet Talk founder Maria Lindbergh to tackle one of the most uncomfortable but common caregiving challenges: talking about toileting, hygiene, and bathroom safety with compassion and effectiveness. Together, they break down practical strategies like timing, tone, and leveraging family dynamics, while sharing real-world examples from clinical practice and personal caregiving. You’ll learn how to approach these conversations as a partnership (not a power struggle), when to involve a third-party expert like an occupational therapist, and why the home environment matters so much when solving bathroom-related issues. Honest, empathetic, and surprisingly empowering, this episode will give you the tools—and the confidence—to handle awkward conversations in a way that protects dignity and leads to real solutions. Find more from Maria at https://toilettalk.me/courseFind Care Equipment solutions at https://www.asksamie.com/Find Caregiver Training at https://www.higherstandardscaregivertraining.com/https://www.carelabpodcast.com/Disclaimer: The following CareLab podcast does not provide health or medical advice. All content is provided for informational purposes only. Listeners are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider for specific healthcare advice, and are wholly responsible for the outcome of implementing any tips or information presented.

    35 min

  3. JAN 9

    Rehab Uncovered: Secrets to Successful Recovery

    Rehabilitation can feel confusing, overwhelming, and frustrating for patients and caregivers alike. In this episode of CareLab, Emilia and Brandy break down what rehabilitation really is, how different rehab settings work, and what actually matters for progress. They explain the role of patient participation in therapy outcomes, how to communicate effectively with physical, occupational, and speech therapy teams, and why goal-setting needs to be realistic and personalized. The conversation highlights common breakdowns in rehab care and what families can do to avoid them. This episode gives practical guidance on how to advocate for yourself or a loved one in rehab, what questions to ask your care team, and how to prioritize concerns so therapy time is used effectively. Whether you are preparing for inpatient rehab, navigating outpatient therapy, or supporting someone through recovery, this episode helps you understand the rehab process and make informed decisions that lead to better outcomes.Find Care Equipment solutions at https://www.asksamie.com/Find Caregiver Training at https://www.higherstandardscaregivertraining.com/https://www.carelabpodcast.com/Disclaimer: The following CareLab podcast does not provide health or medical advice. All content is provided for informational purposes only. Listeners are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider for specific healthcare advice, and are wholly responsible for the outcome of implementing any tips or information presented.

    35 min

  4. JAN 2

    Re-release: The Impactful Work of a Death Doula w/ Chad Flores, CEOLS

    In this re-released CareLab episode, Death Doula Chad Flores opens up a powerful conversation about the evolving role of death doulas in end-of-life care. He explains how these companions support patients and families emotionally, spiritually, and ceremonially as they navigate the dying process, helping them honor a person’s life and create a more meaningful, less fear-filled transition.Chad explores why modern culture struggles with death, how fear often stems from uncertainty, and why preparation and open dialogue are essential. He also shares how death doulas work alongside hospice teams, the many ways people can access doula support, and the growing movement of education through podcasts, death cafés, and community conversations. This episode invites listeners to rethink end-of-life care and the deep human need for connection, presence, and understanding in a person’s final chapter.Disclaimer: The following CareLab podcast does not provide health or medical advice. All content is provided for informational purposes only. Listeners are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider for specific healthcare advice, and are wholly responsible for the outcome of implementing any tips or information presented.

    58 min

  5. 12/26/2025

    Overmedicated Nation: Are We Taking Too Many Pills?

    Explore the hidden dangers of polypharmacy in this CareLab episode, 'Overmedicated Nation: Are We Taking Too Many Pills?' Join Dr. Reshma Kapadia as she delves into the complexities of managing multiple medications, the risks of prescription overload, and practical steps to simplify your medication regimen. Discover how reducing unnecessary medications can enhance your quality of life and prevent adverse health outcomes. Tune in for expert insights and actionable advice on navigating the world of pharmaceuticals. #Polypharmacy #HealthAwareness #medicationmanagementFind more from Reshma at wisemedrx.comLearn about the future of care navigation at https://meetluma.us/Find Care Equipment solutions at https://www.asksamie.com/ https://www.carelabpodcast.com/Disclaimer: The following CareLab podcast does not provide health or medical advice. All content is provided for informational purposes only. Listeners are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider for specific healthcare advice, and are wholly responsible for the outcome of implementing any tips or information presented.

    38 min

  6. 12/19/2025

    Re-release: How to Avoid the ER

    In this re-released episode of CareLab, Brandy and Emilia take a candid look at avoiding ER visits. They unpack the everyday obstacles patients and providers face—from navigating system limitations to truly understanding what people need to stay safe and well at home. Drawing on their professional and personal experiences, they explore managing conditions like congestive heart failure, why tracking key health indicators matters, and how to spot subtle early signs of decline. The episode also shines a light on the vital role occupational therapy plays in supporting better outcomes and the ongoing need for stronger advocacy and resources across home health care.Disclaimer: The following CareLab podcast does not provide health or medical advice. All content is provided for informational purposes only. Listeners are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider for specific healthcare advice, and are wholly responsible for the outcome of implementing any tips or information presented.

    30 min

  7. 12/12/2025

    How One Caregiver's Struggle Sparked a Movement for Change

    Join us as we delve into the inspiring journey of a caregiver who transformed her personal struggles into a powerful advocacy movement for caregivers everywhere. Discover the challenges faced by the sandwich generation and the resilience required to support multiple generations. This episode offers practical insights and real stories that highlight the importance of community and support in caregiving, and offers and inspiring story of how one woman's dedication is making a difference in the lives of caregivers. #Caregiving #Advocacy #FamilySupportFind more from Rachel at https://sandwichedkc.comFind Care Equipment solutions at https://www.asksamie.com/Learn about the future of care navigation at https://meetluma.us/https://www.carelabpodcast.com/Disclaimer: The following CareLab podcast does not provide health or medical advice. All content is provided for informational purposes only. Listeners are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider for specific healthcare advice, and are wholly responsible for the outcome of implementing any tips or information presented.

    36 min

  8. 12/05/2025

    Re-release: How our brains change as we age

    We’re bringing back this powerful CareLab conversation with Dr. Marsha Neville, Ph.D., where she breaks down what really happens to our cognitive health as we age. In this encore episode, she clarifies what normal cognitive aging looks like, how hormonal shifts can influence thinking, and why habits like movement, social connection, and mental stimulation help build lasting cognitive reserve. You’ll also hear practical guidance on spotting the difference between typical aging and signs of concern, the role of overall physical health, and everyday strategies to keep your brain thriving.Disclaimer: The following CareLab podcast does not provide health or medical advice. All content is provided for informational purposes only. Listeners are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider for specific healthcare advice, and are wholly responsible for the outcome of implementing any tips or information presented.

    36 min
See All (99)

4.9
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Feeling a little.... squished? Find some relief with CareLab! Hosted by two members of the "Sandwich generation" (who also happen to be occupational therapists), CareLab takes a lighthearted look into some of the biggest issues affecting function, safety, (sanity), and quality of life. Disclaimer: The CareLab podcast does not provide health or medical advice. All content is provided for informational purposes only. Listeners are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider for specific healthcare advice, and are wholly responsible for the outcome of implementing any information.

Information

  • Creator
    CareLab
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    99
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © CareLab
  • Show Website
    CareLab