Stuck in the Middle Podcast

Brian Sacks
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Stuck in the Middle Podcast

Welcome to the Stuck in the Middle Podcast, your go-to resource for navigating the challenges of being sandwiched between raising children and caring for aging parents. Host Brian Sacks shares personal stories, insights, and practical advice drawn from decades of experience balancing these "middle" responsibilities. Each episode, tune in for inspiring interviews with industry leaders, insiders, and guests who share relatable stories and expert tips. Whether you're feeling the financial, emotional, or physical strain of being stuck in the middle, this podcast offers support, community, and practical solutions to help you thrive.

Episodes

  1. OCT 1

    Jeaneen Tang: Play Dumb and Sabotage: Encouraging Language Growth in Children and Adults

    About Jeaneen Tang: Jeaneen Tang is a speech-language pathologist with over 20 years of experience working with neurodivergent children and adults. A mother of a neurodivergent son, Jeaneen's personal journey has deepened her commitment to improving language development strategies for special needs populations. Her book, Play Dumb & Sabotage, offers practical tools for parents and professionals to enhance communication skills in young children. Jeaneen has shared her expertise globally, inspiring others to rethink early language intervention. In this episode, Brian and Jeaneen Tang discuss:  The role of personal experiences in shaping career paths and passions, particularly in caregiving and speech therapyChallenges and experiences with speech delays in children and adultsImportance of early intervention and speech therapyCoping strategies for dealing with communication issues in both children and elderly family members  Key Takeaways: Personal caregiving experiences, such as managing a child's severe brain injury or helping a sick family member, can deeply influence one's approach to both professional and personal caregiving responsibilities​.Identifying red flags in speech development—such as a child not babbling by one year or not combining words by age two—is critical for parents to seek early intervention, which can significantly reduce the need for long-term therapy​.The "play dumb and sabotage" strategy encourages caregivers to intentionally under-anticipate a child's or adult's needs, thereby fostering opportunities for them to practice communication and engage actively.Speech delays in children don’t always mean long-term special education is necessary, and early intervention, especially between ages zero to three, is vital as federally funded programs can help address delays before they become more serious​. "My book is not just for children with special needs, but it's for every child... If we can get every parent educated... it'll really change the world." — Jeaneen Tang   Connect with Jeaneen Tang:  Website: https://www.playdumbandsabotage.com/ Book: Play Dumb & Sabotage: https://www.amazon.com/Play-Dumb-Sabotage-under-anticipating-opportunities-ebook/dp/B0CW1JPC7P LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeaneen-tang-707a6730/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/playdumbandsabotage Host contact information:  Email: briansacksnewsletters@gmail.com Sign up for your FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER at www.stuckinthemiddlenews.com

    20 min

  2. SEP 17

    Connor Tyson: The Emotional and Financial Realities of the Sandwich Generation

    About Connor Tyson: Connor Tyson is a financial wellness coach and founder of Progress Solutions LLC, with over 20 years of experience in the financial services industry. He holds a Series 65, New York Life and Health licenses, and a ChFC (Chartered Financial Consultant) designation. After working in wealth management and advising roles at major institutions like TIAA-CREF and J.P. Morgan, Connor transitioned to financial coaching in 2020, driven by his passion for financial literacy. He focuses on helping individuals eliminate debt, improve financial habits, and achieve long-term financial freedom. In this episode, Brian and Connor Tyson discuss:  Balancing financial responsibilities for both aging parents and childrenThe emotional and psychological burden of family caregivingFinancial planning and the importance of budgetingThe role of habits and behaviors in personal finance Key Takeaways: Caregivers must first assess and stabilize their own financial situation to ensure they are in a position to provide long-term support to both their aging parents and children.Many people, even those with financial education, struggle financially not because they lack knowledge but because they fail to build proactive and intentional habits around their money.Having early, transparent conversations about your parents’ financial assets, their wishes, and long-term care plans can prevent financial strain and emotional stress down the road.The sandwich generation is uniquely burdened with balancing immediate family expenses like childcare and eldercare, while simultaneously planning for their own future needs like retirement and education.  "I don't tell people what to do. I just understand their principles and values, their wishes and what they want, and then I help them understand how to go about that. I guide them to the resources they need to make decisions for themselves." — Connor Tyson Connect with Connor Tyson:  Website: https://progressfc.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connor-tyson-chfc%C2%AE-07391a45/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/connorthefinancialcoach/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/connorthefinancialcoach/ Host contact information:  Email: briansacksnewsletters@gmail.com Sign up for your FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER at www.stuckinthemiddlenews.com

    23 min

  3. SEP 3

    Katherine McCord: The Intersection of Neurodiversity and Family Care

    About Katherine McCord: Katherine McCord is an entrepreneur, international speaker, and the Founding President of Titan Management, where she champions integrity, inclusion, and innovation. She created the first-ever anti-bias Applicant Tracking System, Titan ATS, and founded The Neuroverse, a neurodiversity-focused nonprofit. Katherine is passionate about shaking up HR, fostering workplace inclusion, and advocating for animal rescue and human rights. Her work has earned her speaking engagements at prestigious institutions like AIMS (United Nations) and the London School of Business. In this episode, Brian and Katherine McCord discuss:  Understanding what neurodiversity isThe impact of neurodiversity on daily lifeStrategies for managing family dynamicsThe role of communication in caregiving  Key Takeaways: Neurodiversity includes conditions such as ADHD, dyslexia, and PTSD, which affect how individuals process information and stimuli, and can come with both disabilities and strengths.Hormonal shifts, like those experienced during menopause, can significantly exacerbate or alter the ways in which individuals manage their neurodiversity.Implementing universal design principles in both homes and workplaces can greatly help accommodate the diverse needs of neurodiverse individuals, thereby reducing the everyday challenges they face and fostering a more inclusive environment.Adapting communication styles to the needs of the individual, such as using clear and specific questions, can lead to better understanding and outcomes in caregiving situations.   "Every human, neurodiverse or not, has different needs and a different way of functioning. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that they have the autonomy to live life in a way that is healthy and natural for them, whether they are a child, your partner, or an elderly parent." — Katherine McCord   Connect with Katherine McCord:  Website: https://www.titanmanagementusa.com/ & https://www.kmccordspeaking.com/ Show: Career Launch Live: https://www.careerlaunch2020.com/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@katthehrtitan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-mccord-093bb343/ Host contact information:  Email: briansacksnewsletters@gmail.com Sign up for your FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER at www.stuckinthemiddlenews.com

    28 min

  4. AUG 20

    Jimmy Helmick: How to Mentally and Physically Declutter Your Life

    About Jimmy Helmick: Jimmy Helmick is a decluttering expert and a staunch advocate for minimalism. With a background in lean manufacturing and Six Sigma, Jimmy has dedicated his career to reducing waste and streamlining processes. His personal journey from stress and dissatisfaction to clarity and purpose inspired him to help others navigate their clutter and align their lives with what truly matters. By focusing on health, growth, and simplicity, Jimmy empowers individuals to clear physical and mental clutter, fostering a more intentional and joyful life. In this episode, Brian and Jimmy Helmick discuss:  The importance of mental and physical declutteringMindfulness and intentional livingCreating a positive environmentEmotional connections to sentimental items  Key Takeaways: Establishing mindful morning routines, such as waking up earlier and taking time for quiet reflection, can set a positive tone for the day and help manage stress effectively.By decluttering physical spaces in the home, individuals can experience enhanced mental clarity and emotional stability, which are crucial for effectively managing the dual responsibilities of caregiving.Removing electronics from the bedroom and creating a clutter-free environment improves sleep quality and mental clarity, while cutting down social media use reduces mental clutter and distractions, boosting focus on personal goals and well-being.When navigating family dynamics with sentimental or inherited items, it's crucial to assess your own emotional connection to these possessions to make informed decluttering decisions and achieve a more peaceful living environment.   "Just a little bit of space makes a big, big difference." — Jimmy Helmick   Connect with Jimmy Helmick:  Website: https://www.declutteringdaily.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmyhelmick/ Host contact information:  Email: briansacksnewsletters@gmail.com Sign up for your FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER at www.stuckinthemiddlenews.com

    21 min

  5. AUG 6

    VA Aid and Attendance Benefits

    In this episode, Brian shares his journey of managing his mother's costly long-term care after his father's passing. He reveals invaluable insights into the VA aid and attendance benefits, detailing the steps and documents needed to successfully navigate this process. Brian’s experience offers practical advice and highlights the importance of persistence and thorough documentation, equipping you with essential tools to ease the financial and emotional burden of eldercare. In this episode, Brian discusses:  Balancing the demands of raising children and caring for aging parentsFinancial struggles related to elderly careVA aid and attendance benefits for veterans and their familiesPractical advice and tips for managing eldercare responsibilities  Key Takeaways: The unexpected costs of eldercare can be overwhelming, and finding resources such as VA benefits can significantly alleviate financial burdens.The VA aid and attendance benefit is available for veterans and their surviving spouses, providing monthly financial assistance for those who qualify based on service, need for daily living assistance, and income/assets.Persistence and thorough documentation are crucial when dealing with the VA system, as bureaucratic challenges can delay or complicate receiving benefits.It's essential to gather and submit specific documents, including the DD 214 discharge papers, a physician statement, financial information, and relevant VA forms, while also keeping copies and seeking help from Veteran Service Officers (VSOs) if needed.  Host contact information:  Email: briansacksnewsletters@gmail.com Sign up for your FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER at www.stuckinthemiddlenews.com

    9 min

  6. JUL 23

    5 Tips To Help Your Marriage While Stuck in the Middle

    In this episode, Brian opens up about the challenges and triumphs of balancing marriage while caring for aging parents. Drawing from his own 35-year marriage, Brian shares heartfelt advice on maintaining strong relationships and staying connected through the chaos. Tune in for essential insights that promise to strengthen your bonds and help you navigate the complexities of being stuck in the middle. In this episode, Brian discusses:  Navigating relationship dynamics amidst caregivingThe necessity of effective communicationThe importance of spending quality time togetherStrategies for equitable responsibility sharingThe role of self-care in maintaining individual well-being  Key Takeaways: Communicate openly and frequently with your spouse to ensure mutual understanding and support.Prioritize quality time together, such as scheduling regular date nights to strengthen your relationship.Share responsibilities and be flexible in managing both household and caregiving tasks to prevent resentment.Maintain your individual identity by taking care of your physical and mental well-being.Seek external support, like community programs or family assistance, to lighten the caregiving load and allow for personal rejuvenation.  “I used to tell my wife, 'It's you and me against the world.'”   Host contact information:  Email: briansacksnewsletters@gmail.com Sign up for your FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER at www.stuckinthemiddlenews.com

    8 min

  7. JUL 9

    Dealing with Stress

    In this episode, we delve into the stress of being caught in the middle as a spouse, sharing personal insights and practical tips on managing responsibilities to parents, spouses, and children. Learn how open communication, prioritizing self-care, and setting boundaries can help navigate these challenges effectively. In this episode, Brian discusses:  The emotional and financial stress of being a middle spouseBalancing responsibilities between aging parents and your own familyThe importance of open communication in managing family stressPrioritizing self-care while taking care of others  Key Takeaways: Open communication with your spouse, children, and parents is essential to managing stress.Prioritizing your marriage can help maintain a strong family foundation amidst responsibilities.Establishing boundaries with your parents is crucial for your well-being.Self-care, including a healthy diet and regular exercise, is vital to effectively manage multiple responsibilities.  “Take care of yourself, get yourself in a good place, and set those boundaries, communicate so that you're in a position to really juggle all of these things in a good way.”

    7 min

  8. JUN 25

    Welcome to the Stuck in the Middle Podcast!

    Welcome Episode Welcome to the Stuck in the Middle Podcast, your go-to resource for navigating the challenges of being sandwiched between raising children and caring for aging parents. In our debut episode, host Brian Sacks shares his personal journey and offers insights into the joys and struggles of being sandwiched between these roles. Tune in for inspiring stories, expert advice, and practical solutions to help you thrive. In this episode, Brian discusses:  Balancing child-rearing and elder careFinding joy and positivity in the middleCaregiving's impact on personal relationshipsNavigating financial challenges for caregivers  Key Takeaways: Through this podcast, Brian aims to provide a central source of information and support for those balancing child-rearing and elder care responsibilities.Sharing caregiving experiences can teach children valuable life lessons through example rather than words.Having a supportive spouse is crucial for managing the emotional and practical challenges of being "stuck in the middle."This podcast will feature expert advice and personal stories to address the diverse challenges faced by the sandwich generation.  “The truth of the matter is there is a lot of joy when you are doing the right thing, you have good feelings, even when it's challenging.”

    12 min
  • 8 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

About

Welcome to the Stuck in the Middle Podcast, your go-to resource for navigating the challenges of being sandwiched between raising children and caring for aging parents. Host Brian Sacks shares personal stories, insights, and practical advice drawn from decades of experience balancing these "middle" responsibilities. Each episode, tune in for inspiring interviews with industry leaders, insiders, and guests who share relatable stories and expert tips. Whether you're feeling the financial, emotional, or physical strain of being stuck in the middle, this podcast offers support, community, and practical solutions to help you thrive.

Information

  • Creator
    Brian Sacks
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    8
  • Rating
    Clean

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