The Caretakers Journey

Carole Leathem
The Caretakers Journey

Life as a caretaker can be hard. I have discovered four core areas of our lives we need to strengthen in our daily lives: * Spiritual * Mental * Emotional * Physical. We can lean into the many emotions we feel daily and find hope when we are feeling overwhelmed. Is it possible to find joy in the midst of painful circumstances? YES! Each week I will bring to the community a different topic/speaker who can help us navigate our world of caretakers. We will share meaningful conversations that will encourage, provide information, and let caretaker's know they are not alone on their journey.

  1. The Intersection of Faith & Mental Health

    6 天前

    The Intersection of Faith & Mental Health

    Summary: In this conversation, Laura Smith discusses her book 'Holy Care for the Whole Self' and the importance of addressing mental health issues. She shares her own journey of healing from childhood trauma and the impact it had on her mental health. Laura emphasizes the need for caretakers to prioritize their mental well-being and seek help when needed. She also highlights the connection between faith and mental health, explaining how biblical principles align with mental health practices. The conversation touches on the significance of rest, community, prayer, and gratitude in caring for one's mental health. In this conversation, Carole and Laura discuss the importance of self-care for caregivers and individuals struggling with mental health. They explore the role of faith and scripture in mental health journeys and highlight the need for open conversations and support networks. Laura shares practical tips for caring for mental health, including finding the right therapist, incorporating self-care practices into caregiving, and prioritizing physical health. They emphasize the power of prayer, creativity, and community in maintaining mental well-being. The conversation concludes with a reminder that caregivers are not alone and that there is a supportive community available to them. Takeaways: Caretakers need to prioritize their mental health and seek help when needed. There is a strong connection between faith and mental health, with many mental health practices aligning with biblical principles. Rest, community, prayer, and gratitude are essential for caring for one's mental health. Addressing childhood trauma and seeking healing can have a significant impact on mental well-being. It is important to acknowledge and validate the struggles of mental health, rather than dismissing or minimizing them. Self-care is essential for caregivers and individuals struggling with mental health. Finding the right therapist may require trying multiple options. Incorporating self-care practices into caregiving can be done through creativity and outdoor activities. Prayer and scripture can provide comfort and guidance in mental health journeys. Physical health, including sleep, nutrition, and hydration, is crucial for mental well-being. Sharing one's story and seeking support from trusted individuals can help combat feelings of isolation. Caregivers are not alone, and there is a supportive community available to them. Prioritizing Mental Health as a Caretaker The Intersection of Faith and Mental Health Sharing Stories and Seeking Support "It isn't supposed to be this way." "Jesus never wanted that for us." "There is something that happened. It was traumatic. I can name that. I can claim that. And because now I know what it was, I can grow and I can heal." "God wants to use the journeys that we've been on ourselves." "Medication has made all the difference because it has taken away the suicidal ideation." "God has created scientists who have created things that help brain chemistry." Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Overview 02:25 It Isn't Supposed to Be This Way 06:24 Healing from Childhood Trauma 11:01 The Intersection of Faith and Mental Health 13:27 Biblical Principles for Mental Health 16:21 Qualifications and Sharing Personal Stories 19:23 Finding the Right Therapist and Incorporating Self-Care Practices 21:21 The Power of Prayer and Scripture in Mental Health Journeys 25:05 Sharing Stories and Seeking Support 29:46 You Are Not Alone: Building a Supportive Community Connect with Laura: Laura’s Website: https://www.laurasmithauthor.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurasmithauthor/ Laura’s Book: https://www.amazon.com/Holy-Care-Whole-Self-Well-Being/dp/1640702776 Connect with Carole: Website - https://www.thecaretakersjourney.com/ Social Media -  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/carolesjourney/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/

    36 分鐘
  2. Setting Boundaries for Healthy Relationships

    11月22日

    Setting Boundaries for Healthy Relationships

    Summary: The conversation is about dealing with difficult relationships as caretakers. Sonja Meyrer, a certified professional coach, shares her insights and experiences on navigating difficult relationships and offers guidance on setting boundaries. The conversation also touches on the importance of emotional intelligence and understanding the difference between dependence and codependence. In this conversation, Sonja Meyrer and Carole discuss the importance of knowing and setting boundaries as a caregiver. They emphasize that boundaries are about protecting oneself and determining what is acceptable in one's own life. They also talk about the significance of detachment as a mental action step to bring focus and attention back to one's own life. They provide various mindfulness techniques to practice detachment and emphasize the need to take care of oneself as a caregiver. The conversation concludes with a reminder that caregivers are not alone and that their journey is seen and loved. Takeaways: Difficult relationships are common for caretakers, both with the person they are caring for and with family members. Setting boundaries is crucial in navigating difficult relationships. Emotional intelligence plays a significant role in building healthy relationships. Understanding the difference between dependence and codependence is important for caretakers. Recognizing and addressing our own emotions and behaviors is essential for improving relationships. Boundaries are about protecting oneself and determining what is acceptable in one's own life. Detachment is a mental action step that brings focus and attention back to one's own life. Practicing mindfulness can help in detaching from obsessive thoughts and focusing on the present moment. Taking care of oneself is essential for caregivers to avoid burnout and maintain their well-being. Caregivers are not alone in their journey and are seen and loved. Setting Boundaries for Healthy Relationships The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Caregiving Mindfulness Techniques for Detachment Taking Care of Yourself as a Caregiver "Dealing with difficult relationships can be hard." "I wish I lived next door to Sonja and we could have chocolate and coffee together." "And then you went missing. And when I picked up the book and got past the beautiful cover, the subtitle just says it all for me because the subtitle is a hope-filled guide for anyone lost in a difficult relationship." "Our values are our values. And so when we know what we value, then we also know what we expect from others." "There are so many words that we can use to describe what we're feeling and each one of those words will bring a different response if we will identify it." "I was hoping or I had this expectation based on things that I valued that my parent was going to be the one caring for me forever." Chapters: 00:00 Dealing with Difficult Relationships 02:28 A Hope-Filled Guide for Anyone Lost in a Difficult Relationship 03:22 Moving Forward from Difficult Relationships 05:44 Recognizing Unhealthy Relationships 15:47 Finding the Balance Between Dependence and Codependence 23:23 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Relationships 26:09 Setting Boundaries and Knowing Our Values 34:45 Practicing Detachment for Mental Well-being 39:58 Understanding Boundaries and Their Importance 46:52 Taking Care of Yourself as a Caregiver 48:21 You Are Not Alone in Your Caregiving Journey Connect with Sonja: Sonja’s  Website: https://www.sonjamcoaching.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sonjamcoaching/ Sonja’s Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BRYXZLPW?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_17ABYP2G63Q2WRVTJ9BW Connect with Carole: Website - https://www.thecaretakersjourney.com/ Social Media -  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/carolesjourney/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/carolesjourney Book - https://www.carolesjourney.com/book

    49 分鐘
  3. Staying Grounded While Caretaking

    11月15日

    Staying Grounded While Caretaking

    Summary: In this episode, Carole and Kimberly discuss the importance of staying grounded spiritually while facing the pressures of caregiving. They explore various spiritual practices that can help caretakers maintain their faith and find hope in difficult times. Two key practices they highlight are worship and spiritual friendship. Worshiping God and acknowledging His control and provision can help caretakers gain perspective and strengthen their faith. Spiritual friendship, characterized by sharing lives with God and offering support and encouragement, can combat isolation and provide comfort and transformation. These practices can help caretakers navigate frustration, impatience, discouragement, and a loss of faith and hope. The conversation explores the practice of Sabbath and its importance in the Christian faith. Sabbath is a time of rest and recentering on God, where one ceases from striving and feasts on God's word and worship. It is a time to disconnect from the world and depend on God. The conversation also touches on the practice of taking communion on one's own and the significance of gratitude in Sabbath. Kimberly shares her plan to start a new journal for the fall as a way to take care of herself. Takeaways: Staying grounded spiritually is essential for caretakers facing the pressures of caregiving. Worshiping God and acknowledging His control and provision can help caretakers gain perspective and strengthen their faith. Engaging in spiritual friendship, characterized by sharing lives with God and offering support and encouragement, can combat isolation and provide comfort and transformation. Sabbath is a core practice in the Christian faith that involves resting and recentering on God. During Sabbath, one ceases from striving, anxiety, worry, and tension, and feasts on God's word, worship, and good food. Sabbath is a time to disconnect from the world and depend on God, realizing that the world does not depend on us. Gratitude is an important aspect of Sabbath, as it helps us remember who we are grateful to. Journaling can be a form of self-care and a way to keep track of important thoughts and experiences. The Power of Worship in Maintaining Faith Journaling as a Form of Self-Care "If you want to be more compassionate, don't buy a book on how to be more compassionate. Worship the one who is compassionate and let him transform you to himself." "Spiritual friendship is a covenant friendship where we share with each other our lives with God. And there's something supernatural about it. There's a transformational principle about it. There's an encouragement and a comfort that goes beyond just our best efforts." "When our faith is wanting, when it feels lost, when we're lacking hope, the practice that we can do is to worship God, to acknowledge that He is the one in control, that He is the giver of all things, that He is the provider." "The practice of Sabbath is taking some time that you would rest in order to recenter on God." "Sabbath is meant to be a time to cease from the things that are hard in this world and feast on God." "Sabbath is the inspirer, the other days are the inspired." Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 06:38 The Power of Worship in Maintaining Faith 12:19 Finding Comfort and Transformation in Spiritual Friendship 16:41 Restoring Faith and Hope through Worship20:36Taking Communion on Your Own 23:27 The Significance of Gratitude in Sabbath 27:05 Journaling as a Form of Self-Care 33:28 Prioritizing Self-Care as a Caregiver Connect with Kimberly: Kimberly’s  Website: hhttps://theinspirationlounge.org/contact-me Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theinspirationlounge/ Connect with Carole: Website - https://www.thecaretakersjourney.com/ Social Media -  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/carolesjourney/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/carolesjourney Book - https://www.carolesjourney.com/book

    34 分鐘
  4. Desperation & Seeking God

    11月8日

    Desperation & Seeking God

    Summary: In this episode of the Caretakers Journey podcast, host Carole Leathem engages in a heartfelt conversation with Rachel Wojo about the power of prayer during life's darkest moments. They explore the significance of three-word prayers, the shift from seeking cures to finding courage, and the importance of embracing the healing journey rather than seeking quick fixes. Rachel shares her personal experiences with loss and the emotional struggles of caretaking, emphasizing the need for divine guidance and revelation in times of desperation. The discussion highlights the transformative power of prayer and the necessity of resting in God's presence. In this conversation, Rachel and Carole explore the themes of finding God in difficult times, the importance of perspective, and the power of prayer. They discuss the biblical characters who exemplify desperation and reliance on God, emphasizing that even in the wilderness, God is present. The conversation also highlights the significance of self-care for caregivers, encouraging listeners to seek support and connection with others. Takeaways: Desperation often leads us to seek God more earnestly. Three-word prayers simplify our communication with God. Shifting from seeking a cure to seeking courage is vital. The healing journey is often more important than the outcome. Fatigue can be a sign of losing focus on God. Prayer can lead to moments of rest and reflection. Asking God for signs is a biblical practice. God's perspective can change our understanding of our struggles. The process of healing involves patience and trust in God. Community support can help us notice God's blessings. We often overlook the small signs of God's presence. Perspective can transform our experience of difficult circumstances. Desperation can lead to a deeper dependence on God. Gratitude shifts our focus from problems to God's blessings. Biblical characters reflect our own struggles and needs. Prayer can be a powerful tool in times of distress. Self-care is essential for caregivers to sustain their journey. Community and connection with others are vital for support. Recognizing God's plan can bring peace in uncertainty. We are not alone in our struggles; God sees us. "It's all about him." Chapters: 00:00 Desperation and Seeking God 02:03 The Power of Three-Word Prayers 05:33 From Cure to Courage 08:03 The Healing Journey vs. Quick Fix 11:05 Finding Rest in Desperation 12:48 Guidance vs. Revelation 16:57 Finding God in the Wilderness 20:15 The Power of Perspective 24:05 Desperados: Biblical Characters in Distress 27:57 The Desperado's Prayer 30:33 Self-Care for Caregivers Connect with Rachel: Book Website: https://rachelwojo.com/ Rachel’s Website: https://rachelwojo.com/ Connect with Carole: Website - https://www.thecaretakersjourney.com/ Social Media -  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/carolesjourney/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/carolesjourney Book - https://www.carolesjourney.com/book

    35 分鐘
  5. Suffering - A Biblical Perspective - Part 2

    11月1日

    Suffering - A Biblical Perspective - Part 2

    Summary: In this episode, Carole Leathem and Dustin George delve into the complex topic of suffering from a biblical perspective. They explore why God allows suffering, emphasizing that it serves a purpose in building character and strengthening faith. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding God's perfect nature, omnipotence, and omniscience in the context of human suffering. They discuss how suffering does not eliminate our eternal relationship with God but rather redeems it, leading to a deeper dependence on Him. The episode concludes with reflections on the hope of restoration and the glory of God revealed through our trials. Takeaways: Suffering is a common question in faith discussions. God's ways are perfect, even when we don't understand them. Our eternal relationship with God does not eliminate suffering. God uses suffering to fulfill His purposes. Trials build character and strengthen faith. Dependence on God is crucial during suffering. Faith is displayed through our responses to pain. God's glory is revealed through our suffering. Suffering points us towards the hope of restoration. The ultimate purpose of suffering is to bring us closer to God. Chapters: 00:00 Understanding Suffering from a Biblical Perspective 10:48 The Redemptive Nature of Temporal Suffering 17:59 God's Perfect Ways, Power, and Knowledge 28:30 Becoming Cultivators in Our Relationship with God 30:15 Introduction: The Purpose of Suffering 32:25 Chapter 2: The Analogy of Forging Metal: Shaping and Tempering through Suffering 36:39 Chapter 3: Dependence on God in the Midst of Suffering 44:08 Chapter 4: The Ultimate Solution to Human Suffering: The Sacrifice of Christ 46:02 Chapter 5: The Expectation of the Coming Restoration 52:35 Conclusion: Encouragement for Caregivers Connect with Dustin: Website: https://www.dustingeorge.com/ New Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKL18KSX Connect with Carole: Website - https://www.thecaretakersjourney.com/ Social Media -  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/carolesjourney/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/carolesjourney Book - https://www.carolesjourney.com/book

    57 分鐘
  6. Exploring Pain & It's Purpose - Part 1

    10月25日

    Exploring Pain & It's Purpose - Part 1

    Summary: In this episode of the Caretakers Journey podcast, host Carole Leathem and Dustin George engage in a profound discussion about suffering, mental health, and the nature of God. They explore common questions surrounding suffering, the historical context of these inquiries, and the theological implications of pain. The conversation delves into personal experiences, the role of free will, and the perspectives of thinkers like C.S. Lewis. Ultimately, they emphasize the importance of understanding suffering within a biblical framework and the comfort that can be found in faith amidst life's challenges. Takeaways: Suffering is a universal experience that everyone faces. Pain is common but not part of God's original design. God does not owe us an explanation for our suffering. Historical perspectives on suffering can inform our understanding today. Free will plays a significant role in the existence of suffering. Theological responses to suffering vary across different beliefs. C.S. Lewis provides valuable insights into the problem of evil. Personal experiences with suffering can deepen our faith. Understanding suffering can lead to greater empathy for others. Faith can provide comfort and strength during difficult times. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:59 The Complexity of Suffering 09:40 Origins of the Question of Suffering 12:37 Different Perspectives on Suffering 18:02 The Story of Job 21:25 Understanding God's Character and the Purpose of Suffering 21:46 Exploring the Complexity of Suffering and God's Role 22:22 Unpacking the Book of Job and its Insights on Suffering 23:42 Challenging Misconceptions and Misunderstandings about Suffering 24:24 Understanding Suffering within the Context of God's Character 29:05 The Existence of a Universal Standard of Good in the Midst of Suffering 33:39 Finding God's Presence in Dark Seasons of Life Connect with Dustin: Website: https://www.dustingeorge.com/ New Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKL18KSX Connect with Carole: Website - https://www.thecaretakersjourney.com/ Social Media -  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/carolesjourney/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/carolesjourney Book - https://www.carolesjourney.com/book

    47 分鐘
  7. Loving & Caring for Difficult Family

    10月18日

    Loving & Caring for Difficult Family

    Summary: Lisa Burkhardt Worley shares her faith journey and the challenges she faced growing up without a father and with a mother who struggled with her own trauma. She talks about how she found faith in her teenage years and then drifted away from it until she experienced a career setback. Through prayer and Bible study, she rededicated her life to Christ and saw her career flourish again. She also shares how she reconciled with her mother and learned to see her through God's eyes. In this conversation, Carole and Lisa discuss the importance of loving and caring for difficult family members, particularly parents. Lisa shares her personal journey of caring for her mother, who was not easy to love, and how it taught her about God's unconditional love. They also discuss the challenges and rewards of being a caregiver and the importance of setting boundaries. Lisa emphasizes the need to honor our parents, even if they are difficult, and the impact it can have on future generations. They encourage listeners to take care of themselves and seek strength from the Lord in their caregiving journey. Takeaways: Growing up without a father and with a mother who struggled with trauma can have a profound impact on a person's life. Prayer and Bible study can lead to a deeper understanding of God's love and purpose for our lives. Sometimes setbacks in our careers or lives can be a wake-up call from God to refocus on Him and His plans for us. Reconciliation with family members, even those who have hurt us, can bring healing and a deeper appreciation for God's unconditional love. Caring for difficult family members, such as parents, can be challenging but also an opportunity to show God's unconditional love. Setting boundaries is important in caregiving to protect oneself and maintain a healthy relationship. Honoring our parents, even if they are difficult, is a biblical command and can have a positive impact on future generations. Taking care of oneself is crucial in the caregiving journey, and seeking strength from God is essential. The Caretaker's Journey Ministry and podcast provide support and encouragement for caregivers who may feel isolated. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:49 Lisa's Faith Journey 03:29 Career Setback and Rededication 09:29 Reconciliation with Mother 17:44 Loving and Caring for Difficult Family Members 20:02 The Importance of Setting Boundaries in Caregiving 22:07 Honoring Parents: A Biblical Command 23:29 Taking Care of Yourself in the Caregiving Journey 29:14 Finding Support and Encouragement in the Caretaker's Journey Connect with Lisa: Website: https://pearlsofpromiseministries.com/ Connect with Carole: Website - https://www.thecaretakersjourney.com/ Social Media -  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/carolesjourney/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/carolesjourney Book - https://www.carolesjourney.com/book

    38 分鐘
  8. Reminding Ourselves of God's Goodness

    10月11日

    Reminding Ourselves of God's Goodness

    Summary: In this episode of the Caretaker Journeys podcast, host Carole Leathem speaks with Julie Sunne, an author and caregiver, about finding hope amidst life's struggles. Julie shares her personal journey of writing and faith, discussing the challenges of caregiving for her daughter with significant disabilities. The conversation delves into the importance of authenticity, self-care, and understanding God's nature in the face of suffering. Julie emphasizes the need for hope and encouragement for caregivers, highlighting the lessons learned from her trials and the role of music and faith in her life. Takeaways: Julie Sunne emphasizes the importance of hope in caregiving. Writing became a way for Julie to share her experiences and encourage others. Faith can be a rollercoaster during difficult times. Caregivers often feel overwhelmed and alone in their journeys. Music and self-care are vital for emotional well-being. Authenticity in sharing struggles helps connect with others. Understanding God's nature can help reconcile suffering and faith. Finding joy in small moments is essential for caregivers. Surrendering expectations can lead to peace in difficult circumstances. Community and connection are crucial for caregivers. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:01 Finding Hope Amid Life's Struggles 06:59 Authenticity and Encouragement in Tough Times 13:02 Reminding Yourself of God's Truth 18:00 Self-Care for Caregivers 22:45 Finding Blessings and Lessons in Trials 27:36 Navigating Difficult Circumstances with Faith 35:14 The Importance of Self-Care for Caregivers Connect with Julie: Website: https://juliesunne.com/  Book:https://www.amazon.com/stores/Julie-Sunne/author/B01M305KRB Connect with Carole: Website - https://www.thecaretakersjourney.com/ Social Media -  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/carolesjourney/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/carolesjourney Book - https://www.carolesjourney.com/book

    47 分鐘

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簡介

Life as a caretaker can be hard. I have discovered four core areas of our lives we need to strengthen in our daily lives: * Spiritual * Mental * Emotional * Physical. We can lean into the many emotions we feel daily and find hope when we are feeling overwhelmed. Is it possible to find joy in the midst of painful circumstances? YES! Each week I will bring to the community a different topic/speaker who can help us navigate our world of caretakers. We will share meaningful conversations that will encourage, provide information, and let caretaker's know they are not alone on their journey.

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