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

    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
  2. OCT 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
  3. OCT 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
  4. OCT 8

    197. Assisted Suicide with Author, Wife, and Caregiver Erica Baccus

    Summary In this episode of Inspired Caring, Michele Magner engages in a heartfelt conversation with Erica Baccus about her journey through her husband's Alzheimer's diagnosis and the decision to pursue assisted dying in Switzerland. They explore the complexities of grief, the importance of open conversations about death, and the emotional challenges faced by families navigating these difficult choices. Erica shares her personal experiences, insights on the process of Dignitas, and the significance of making informed decisions about end-of-life care. Keywords assisted dying, Alzheimer's, grief, decision-making, Dignitas, end-of-life options, medical assistance in dying, emotional support, family conversations, personal stories Takeaways Erica emphasizes the need for open conversations about death and dying.The decision for assisted dying was made with careful consideration and love.Grief can manifest in complex ways, especially after a planned death.Erica's husband, John, maintained a positive outlook throughout his illness.The process of assisted dying in Switzerland involves thorough documentation and evaluations.Erica found solace in writing and journaling during her husband's decline.Family dynamics play a crucial role in navigating end-of-life decisions.The importance of understanding one's options regarding assisted dying is highlighted.Erica's experience reflects the need for supportive medical communities.Conversations about death should begin long before a diagnosis. Sound bites "I wrote a goodbye letter." "This was a gift." "This isn't for everyone." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Right to Die 01:22 Personal Experiences with Assisted Dying 04:20 Navigating the Legal Landscape of Assisted Dying 07:27 The Emotional Journey of Decision-Making 10:17 The Process of Dignitas and Its Requirements 13:04 Traveling to Switzerland for Assisted Dying 15:47 The Experience at Dignitas 18:57 Reflections on Life and Death Choices 30:29 The Process of Assisted Dying 34:56 Reflections on Choice and Grief 37:35 Navigating Conversations About Death 43:19 Communicating with Family About End-of-Life Choices 48:02 The Importance of Timing in End-of-Life Decisions 52:04 Self-Care for Caregivers 53:54 Sharing the Journey: The Book Launch 57:23 Navigating Difficult Conversations About Death 01:00:05 The Emotional Toll of Caregiving 01:02:21 Facing Alzheimer's: A Personal Journey 01:05:23 The Importance of Sharing Stories Buy Erica's Book A PROMISE KEPT: Honoring His Wishes, Embracing Our Love Visit Erica’s Website Buy Amy Bloom’s Book In Love Being Mortal by Atul Gawande The Curious Senior Book Review on Being Mortal Visit Dignitas' Website 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 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.

    1h 9m
  5. SEP 12

    196. Transforming Dementia Care, Zinnia TV with Allyson Schrier

    Summary In this conversation, Michele Magner interviews Co-Founder and President of Zinnia TV, Allyson Schrier. Allyson shares about the programing created designed to assist families caring for individuals with dementia. Allyson shares her personal journey as a caregiver to her husband and the inspiration behind creating Zinnia TV, which focuses on providing specialized programming that caters to the cognitive needs of those living with dementia. The discussion covers the development of the app, its impact on caregivers and patients, and the importance of education and involvement in caregiving. Allyson emphasizes the need for creativity and flexibility in caregiving, as well as the significance of maintaining a sense of purpose for individuals with dementia. Takeaways Zinnia TV was created to provide specialized programming for people living with dementia. Television can be a powerful tool for engagement if used correctly. Caregivers need to slow down and allow people to participate in activities. Education for caregivers is crucial in improving care. Activities of Daily Living (ADL) videos help maintain routines. Zinnia TV can reduce agitation and enhance connections between caregivers and the people they're caring for. "Cognitive ramps" can help individuals with dementia maintain their independence. Programming diversity is important to cater to different interests. Mental health professionals need to be more aware of dementia symptoms. Zinnia TV aims to help people thrive beyond their diagnosis. Sound bites "Nobody should be parked in front of any programming." "The television can actually be an excellent tool." Keywords Zinnia TV, dementia care, family caregivers, specialized programming, reducing agitation, activities of daily living, caregiver education, cognitive ramps, programming diversity, mental health awareness Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Zinnia TV 03:39 The Need for Specialized Programming 06:51 Development of Zinnia TV 09:40 Research and Impact on Caregivers 12:49 Activities of Daily Living and Engagement 15:39 Reducing Agitation and Enhancing Connection 18:51 Education for Caregivers 21:38 The Importance of Involvement 24:50 Cognitive Ramps and Maintaining Purpose 27:43 Final Thoughts and Future of Caregiving 30:54 Conclusion and Resources Learn more about Zinnia TV and subscription options! Lorenzo’s HouseHilarity for Charity advocates, educates and supports families on the dementia journey. 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.

    43 min
  6. SEP 5

    195. Finding Peace in the Midst of Grief & Recovery with Christina Keys

    Summary In this conversation, Michele Magner and Christina Keys delve into the complexities of caregiving, grief, and recovery. Christina shares her personal journey through loss, the challenges of being a caregiver, and the importance of self-care and community support. They discuss the emotional toll of caregiving, the need to redefine normalcy, and the resources available for caregivers. The conversation emphasizes the significance of finding peace amidst chaos and the necessity of building a supportive network for caregivers. Takeaways Caregiving can lead to emotional and physical exhaustion. Redefining normal is crucial for caregivers. Self-care is often overlooked but essential for well-being. Building a support network can alleviate feelings of isolation. Grief and caregiver recovery are intertwined processes. Caregivers often become invisible in their roles. Finding peace can come from creative outlets and self-expression. Community resources are vital for caregiver support. Navigating the complexities of caregiving requires education and awareness. It's important to acknowledge and address one's own needs as a caregiver. Keywords caregiving, grief, self-care, caregiver support, mental health, healing journey, caregiver recovery, community resources, emotional health, family caregiving Sound bites "I had to redefine what my normal was." "I was so used to saying fine." "I needed to redefine my normal." Chapters 00:00 Navigating Grief and Loss 06:47 The Journey of Caregiving and Self-Care 12:50 Redefining Normal in Caregiving 18:47 Finding Support and Community as a Caregiver 29:23 The Importance of Caregiver Community 36:59 Navigating Caregiver Challenges 44:38 Understanding Caregiver Recovery 55:16 Redefining Normal After Caregiving Resources Shared Caregiver Action Network Daughterhood Hero Gen   Connect with Christina Keys – Caregiver Recovery Keys for Caregiving Facebook LinkedIn National Text Line: 360-230-7736 Inspired Caringis THE family support & education program that helps families feel calm andconfident 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.

    59 min
  7. AUG 29

    194. Holding the Vision & Living the Dream

    Summary - In this conversation, Michele Magner reflects on the importance of recognizing personal wins and connections throughout the year. She discusses the difference between living the dream and living in a vision, emphasizing the need for intentionality in creating one's life. Michele shares insights on visualizing the future, especially during transitional phases, and encourages listeners to build a clear vision for their desired life. The conversation concludes with a call to action for listeners to actively create their best lives and hold onto their visions amidst life's challenges. Takeaways Reflecting on wins can provide clarity and joy. Living the dream is about recognizing what you have. Intentionality is key in creating your desired life. Visualizing your future helps navigate transitions. It's important to give yourself credit for accomplishments. Building a vision can guide you through tough times. Consider what you want your daily life to look like. Surround yourself with positive energy and people. Change is inevitable; prepare for it with a vision. Living your best life requires active participation and reflection. Chapters 00:00 Reflecting on Wins and Joys 03:58 Living the Dream vs. Living the Vision 07:11 Visualizing Your Future 09:53 Transitioning Through Life's Changes 12:38 Building a Vision for Change 16:04 Introduction and Warm Welcome 16:05 Exploring Key Themes and Insights Keywords reflection, visualization, personal growth, living the dream, future planning, family connections, self-care, life transitions, Inspired Caring, vision building 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.

    16 min
  8. AUG 15

    193. Denial with Dr. Ceclia Poon

    Summary In this conversation, Dr. Cecilia Poon, a Geropsychologist, discusses the complexities of aging and caregiving. She emphasizes the psychological aspects of aging, the importance of communication between caregivers and older adults, and the resilience that can be found in both groups. The conversation also addresses denial in older adults, family dynamics that can complicate caregiving. Dr. Poon highlights the need for understanding and compassion in navigating these challenges, advocating for interdependence rather than dependency as individuals age. Takeaways Aging is a lifelong process that affects everyone differently. Psychological resilience is crucial for both older adults and caregivers. Communication is key to bridging gaps between caregivers and older adults. Denial can manifest in various ways and is not always negative. Family dynamics can complicate caregiving and perceptions of aging. Older adults often adapt to changes without recognizing them as aging. Asking for help is essential but can be stigmatized due to ageism. Resilience in aging involves flexibility and the ability to bounce back. Trust is fundamental in the caregiver-older adult relationship. Understanding the function of behaviors can help caregivers respond better. Chapters 00:00 Understanding Aging: The Psychological Perspective 10:42 Navigating Denial: Caregiver and Patient Dynamics 19:25 Resilience in Aging: Embracing Interdependence 24:06 Communication Strategies: Bridging the Gap with Older Adults 28:35 Navigating Conversations with Healthcare Providers 33:36 Addressing Family Denial and Communication Challenges 38:07 Understanding Caregiver Dynamics and Responsibilities 42:59 Navigating Manipulation and Independence in Aging 53:15 Cognitive Impairment and Communication Strategies Keywords aging, caregiving, psychology, resilience, communication, denial, family dynamics, manipulation, interdependence, mental health Resources from Dr. Poon Plan Your Lifespan Across the lifespan  Reframing Aging APA Resolution on Ageism. (We are alsoworking on the one on family caregiving) Caregiver Family Therapy by Sara Qualls Inspired Caring is THE family support & education program that helps families feel calm and confident to make better decisions faster. It is offered as an annual membership to businesses to provide for the families they work with. Connect with Michele Magner: Website: www.InspiredCaring.com E-mail: hello@inspiredcaring.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspiredcaring/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michele.magner.90 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-magner-60a99089/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@inspiredcaringwithmichelem3138 Custom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. He does custom songs for any occasion.

    1 hr
5
out of 5
14 Ratings

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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