The Caregiver Cup Podcast Cathy VandenHeuvel

Feeling the weight of caregiving responsibilities? Struggling to find the motivation to face another challenging day? You're not alone. Join me in this episode as we explore practical strategies to reignite your motivation and reclaim your spark even on the toughest caregiving days.
In this episode, we dive deep into the common hurdles caregivers face, from emotional exhaustion to overwhelming responsibilities. We discuss the impact of lack of motivation and explore why it's crucial to address it head-on. Drawing from personal experiences and expert insights, we uncover simple yet powerful techniques to boost your motivation and infuse joy into your caregiving journey.
From mindset shifts to self-care practices, we share actionable tips to help you overcome burnout and rediscover your passion for caregiving. Whether you're feeling stuck in a rut or simply need a dose of inspiration, this episode is your guide to finding your motivation mojo and navigating caregiving with renewed energy and enthusiasm.
Tune in now to unlock the secrets to finding your spark on even the toughest caregiving days. Your motivation makeover starts here!

Plus, don't miss out on valuable insights from Carer Card UK in our latest blog post. Dive deeper into the factors affecting caregiver motivation and discover actionable tips to reignite your passion for caregiving. Check out the article here for a closer look.
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Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

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➡️ Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT If you're interested in 1:1 Coaching ➡️ schedule a 30 minute FREE chat CONNECT WITH CATHY ON INSTAGRAM @cathylynnvan for daily tips and inspiration

In this episode , we delve into the transformative concept of repotting and its profound relevance to the caregiving journey. Just as plants require repotting to facilitate growth and thrive, caregivers too must adapt, evolve, and create space for positive change. 


Join us as we explore five key aspects of repotting, from adapting to changing circumstances to cultivating resilience and adaptability. Discover how embracing change and intentional growth can empower caregivers to navigate the complexities of caregiving with grace and resilience. Tune in to learn practical strategies for nurturing personal well-being, exploring new paths, and fostering resilience in the face of challenges. With insights inspired by the wisdom of Hoda Kotb and real-life caregiver experiences, this episode offers inspiration and guidance for caregivers seeking to cultivate change, growth, and flourishing in their caregiving journey
Send us a Text Message.
Let's rewrite your caregiver story together.   Join Empowerful Caregiver School today and start thriving.  



Support the Show.
Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

Follow me by clicking on the links below:
➡️ Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT If you're interested in 1:1 Coaching ➡️ schedule a 30 minute FREE chat CONNECT WITH CATHY ON INSTAGRAM @cathylynnvan for daily tips and inspiration

It's time to dive into today's episode, and boy, do we have a juicy topic to explore! Picture this: You, yes YOU, uncovering your very own recipe for caregiver joy and kicking those negative thoughts to the curb. Doesn't that sound like music to your ears?
Join us as we embark on this journey of self-discovery, where we'll unravel the secrets to conquering those pesky negative vibes that can steal your sunshine as a caregiver. Trust me, it's all about finding your groove and embracing what works best for YOU.
So grab your favorite mug of coffee, cozy up, and let's dive right in! We're about to unlock the door to your caregiver joy, one secret sauce at a time. Get ready for an adventure like no other!



Send us a Text Message.
Let's rewrite your caregiver story together.   Join Empowerful Caregiver School today and start thriving.  



Support the Show.
Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

Follow me by clicking on the links below:
➡️ Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT If you're interested in 1:1 Coaching ➡️ schedule a 30 minute FREE chat CONNECT WITH CATHY ON INSTAGRAM @cathylynnvan for daily tips and inspiration

When Laureen Wysocki stepped into the role of a caregiver for her husband, Kevin, with young-onset dementia, she embarked on a path that would test her strength and resilience. Our heartfelt conversation with this courageous opera singer and dedicated caregiver shines a light on the complexity and beauty of caring for a loved one. Laureen's narrative, intertwined with her music, unfolds like a poignant aria, revealing the power of self-love, the need for a support network, and how she manages to harmonize the many facets of her life.

Throughout our time together, Laureen opened up about the crucial balance between providing care and maintaining one's own well-being. It's a delicate dance of setting boundaries, being clear in communication, and finding solace in practices like gratitude and journaling. She emphasized the importance of seeking and accepting help, and how vital support from counseling to community can be. Her insights offer a beacon of hope to those who might find themselves in similar shoes, reminding us that self-care is not just necessary, it's a lifeline.

Ending on a note of joy and optimism, Laureen's story is a testament to finding light in the darkest of times. She shared touching moments of connection with Kevin and the importance of cherishing small victories, like a special Valentine's Day that reminded her of love's enduring presence. Her journey, though fraught with challenges, teaches us to find and hold onto moments of happiness. Laureen's experiences serve as an inspiring reminder that even amidst life's most trying circumstances, there is beauty to be found and hope to be had.
Send us a Text Message.
Let's rewrite your caregiver story together.   Join Empowerful Caregiver School today and start thriving.  



Support the Show.
Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

Follow me by clicking on the links below:
➡️ Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT If you're interested in 1:1 Coaching ➡️ schedule a 30 minute FREE chat CONNECT WITH CATHY ON INSTAGRAM @cathylynnvan for daily tips and inspiration

As a fellow traveler on the caregiving journey, I know the daily grind can sometimes leave us feeling like mealtime is just another mountain to climb. That's why I'm bringing you tried-and-true meal planning strategies to lift the burden off your shoulders.  We'll tackle everything from the art of crafting a weekly meal plan that syncs with the unpredictable rhythm of caregiving, to the wonders of slow cookers and the hidden gems of local meal service businesses. Join me as we explore ways to keep both our spirits and our loved ones well-nourished, with a nod to our listener Maria, who reminds us all of the resilience and dedication found in the heart of every caregiver.

In this heart-to-heart, you'll not only hear tips and personal tales from my own life as a working mom but you'll also find out how to turn your kitchen into a haven of efficiency. We'll chat about the magic of prepping ingredients ahead of time, the genius of repurposing leftovers into new, mouth-watering dishes, and even how to embrace meal delivery services on those days when the stove might as well be on Mars. It's all about keeping mealtime simple, satisfying, and stress-free. So, whether you're someone who relishes the sizzle of the skillet or you approach cooking with the enthusiasm of a cat in water, this episode is your culinary compass, pointing you towards peaceful evenings and plates full of love.
Send us a Text Message.
Let's rewrite your caregiver story together.   Join Empowerful Caregiver School today and start thriving.  



Support the Show.
Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

Follow me by clicking on the links below:
➡️ Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT If you're interested in 1:1 Coaching ➡️ schedule a 30 minute FREE chat CONNECT WITH CATHY ON INSTAGRAM @cathylynnvan for daily tips and inspiration

Years of rushing to catch flights and balancing a career with raising children taught me a crucial lesson: adversity breeds resilience. Today, I'm inviting you on a heartfelt exploration of how a well-stocked caregiver toolkit can turn the daunting into the doable. Reflecting on the anxiety that once gripped me before every work trip, I share the transformative 'three I's' technique that reshaped my approach to life's turbulence—Identify, Implement, and go All IN—and how this can be a lifeline for anyone immersed in the world of caregiving.

Venture with me into the depths of managing stress and the art of simplification, as we navigate the complexities of caregiving. I'll take you through the process of creating a consistent routine, much like my trusty packing list for travel, and how this anchors us amidst the chaos. This isn't just about overcoming the hurdles of life; it's about embracing them, learning from them, and emerging more empowered with a toolkit tailored to our unique experiences. From anger to worry, to strategizing care, I unveil how we can all find solace in the collective wisdom gathered from our shared journeys.

I encourage you to craft your very own resilience toolkit so you can Stress Better—one that's as unique as your fingerprints and as robust as your spirit. I share snippets from my personal collection of tools, hoping to inspire you to reflect on the instruments you've already mastered and those you might wish to acquire. Let’s connect on Instagram at @cathylynnvan and exchange stories, tips, and encouragement. Let’s not just survive the caregiving expedition; let's thrive within it, filling our cups first so we can pour into others with generosity and love.
Send us a Text Message.
Let's rewrite your caregiver story together.   Join Empowerful Caregiver School today and start thriving.  



Support the Show.
Thank you for listening. If you know of another caregiver who could benefit from this podcast, please copy and share this episode.

Follow me by clicking on the links below:
➡️ Get my free resource: 17 SHIFTS TO RECUDE CAREGIVER STRESS & SAY GOOD-BYE TO CAREGIVER BURNOUT If you're interested in 1:1 Coaching ➡️ schedule a 30 minute FREE chat CONNECT WITH CATHY ON INSTAGRAM @cathylynnvan for daily tips and inspiration