The Sandwich Generation

Lisa Treadwell and Sara McCord

Welcome to "The Sandwich Generation," a podcast dedicated to empowering seniors and their families with the knowledge and resources for dignified aging. Co-hosted by Sara McCord, a Dementia Friend, and Lisa Treadwell, a certified downsizing coach, we bring over 20 years of experience serving seniors. As Indiana real estate brokers specializing in senior transitions, we explore vital topics like aging in place, downsizing, care options, real estate, memory care, caregiver support, estate law, and more. Join us for expert insights and practical advice to navigate aging with dignity.

  1. 1D AGO

    Taking Meals Off Your Plate with Chef Matthew Mejia

    This month on The Sandwich Generation, Lisa and Sara sit down with Chef Matthew Mejia from Chefs For Seniors to tackle one of the most overlooked — yet essential — aspects of aging well: proper nutrition. As adult children juggle careers, kids, and caregiving, meal planning and preparation for aging parents can quickly become overwhelming. Chef Matthew shares why nutrition plays such a critical role in maintaining strength, independence, and overall health for seniors — and how his personalized approach makes it simple, safe, and even enjoyable. From accommodating dietary needs to creating meals seniors actually look forward to, he explains how families can take this responsibility off their already full plates. If you’re feeling stretched thin and worried about whether your loved ones are eating well, this episode offers practical solutions, peace of mind, and a fresh perspective on how support can look different — and better — than you might expect. Chefsforseniors.com

    43 min

  2. MAR 16

    The PACE Plan: Preparing for What’s Next with Marilyn Olson

    Sara and Lisa sit down with aging advocate and speaker Marilyn Olson, former Executive Director of Villages OKC and the Oklahoma Governor’s representative to the State Council on Aging. Marilyn shares practical wisdom for adult children navigating life with aging parents and introduces the simple but powerful PACE Plan—Primary, Alternate, Contingency, and Emergency. This thoughtful framework helps families think ahead, communicate clearly, and prepare for the unexpected when it comes to caregiving and decision-making. Marilyn also offers perspective on how we can all approach aging with intention, positivity, and preparedness. Plus, she shares a few of her favorite documentaries that spark important conversations about aging, caregiving, and the brain: My Love Affair with the Brain, Being Mortal, and Age of Champions. Whether you’re already supporting aging parents or just beginning to think about what the future might hold, this episode offers practical guidance and encouragement for the journey.

    55 min

  3. FEB 15

    Brain Health, Real Life: Science-Backed Habits That Actually Stick with Dr. Michelle Braun

    Lisa and Sara sit down with neuropsychologist and author Dr. Michelle Braun to explore practical ways to strengthen and energize your brain for everyday life. As former classmates from the Indiana University Kelley School of Business, Lisa and Michelle reconnect to share both personal stories and professional insights while unpacking the five steps from Michelle’s book, The High Octane Brain. Together, they discuss how small, intentional changes can improve focus, resilience, memory, and overall mental performance—especially for busy adults balancing work, family, and caregiving. This conversation blends science with real-life application, leaving listeners with simple, actionable strategies to support brain health and show up more fully in every season of life. Find more at drmichellebraun.com

    55 min

  4. JAN 15

    Season 2 Kickoff: New Year, New Lessons & Hoosier Pride

    Season 2 is here! Lisa and Sara kick off 2026 by sharing what’s new personally and professionally, the changes they’re embracing this year, and how they’re approaching New Year’s resolutions in the sandwich generation stage of life. They also reflect on an eye-opening online dementia course they recently completed and why education is such a powerful tool when caring for aging loved ones. Plus, a little fun as they celebrate cheering on our Hoosiers in the National College Football Championship. A thoughtful, upbeat start to Season 2.

    41 min

  5. 12/15/2025

    Clearing Space- Navigating Clutter & Having the Conversation with Aging Parents

    Lisa and Sara sit down with their friend Todd Emrick of Clutter Cleaner to talk about something many adult children quietly struggle with—clutter and what it can reveal about an aging parent’s living situation. Together, they discuss how to recognize the signs that it may be time for a change, why clutter is often about more than “stuff,” and how to approach these conversations with empathy and respect. Todd shares practical insights on cleaning up, being intentional with a plan, and helping parents take steps that support safety, independence, and peace of mind. This episode offers thoughtful guidance for adult children navigating these delicate—but necessary—conversations.

    37 min

  6. 11/14/2025

    Planning Ahead- A Conversation with Nannette Blake of Indiana Funeral Care

    In this episode of The Sandwich Generation, Sara and Lisa sit down with Nannette Blake, Family Advisor at Indiana Funeral Care, for an honest and empowering conversation about funeral preplanning. Nannette shares why planning ahead isn’t just a practical choice—it’s a thoughtful gift we give our loved ones. Together, we explore what preplanning really looks like, how to start the conversation with aging parents, and the emotional and financial benefits of making decisions early. Whether you’re navigating these choices for a parent or considering your own plans, this episode provides clarity, compassion, and helpful guidance every step of the way. Tune in to learn how preparing today can bring peace of mind for tomorrow. Learn more at Indianafuneralcare.com

    1h 3m

  7. 10/15/2025

    Bridging the Gap: Understanding Dementia Through a Positive Approach with Dr. Beth Nolan

    In this episode of The Sandwich Generation, hosts Sara McCord and Lisa Treadwell sit down with Dr. Beth Nolan from Positive Approach to Care (PAC), the groundbreaking organization founded by dementia care expert Teepa Snow. Dr. Nolan shares her journey into dementia education and how PAC is transforming the way we connect with and care for those living with cognitive change. From practical communication tools to shifting our mindset from frustration to empathy, this conversation is packed with insight for anyone supporting an aging loved one. Whether you’re caring for a parent, guiding your family through memory loss, or simply seeking to understand dementia better, this episode offers hope, understanding, and strategies you can start using today.

    48 min

  8. 09/15/2025

    What’s On Our Plate: Hot Topics + Leaving a Legacy

    In this episode of The Sandwich Generation, Sara and Lisa introduce a brand-new segment called What’s On Our Plate, where they bring timely issues, headlines, and hot topics that directly impact you and your family. They also share key insights from this month’s Indy Senior Living Series, where the conversation centered around Living, Dying, & Leaving a Legacy. From practical takeaways to thought-provoking moments, this episode is full of real talk, useful knowledge, and encouragement for anyone navigating life in the middle.

    41 min
See All (42)

About

Welcome to "The Sandwich Generation," a podcast dedicated to empowering seniors and their families with the knowledge and resources for dignified aging. Co-hosted by Sara McCord, a Dementia Friend, and Lisa Treadwell, a certified downsizing coach, we bring over 20 years of experience serving seniors. As Indiana real estate brokers specializing in senior transitions, we explore vital topics like aging in place, downsizing, care options, real estate, memory care, caregiver support, estate law, and more. Join us for expert insights and practical advice to navigate aging with dignity.

Information

  • Creator
    Lisa Treadwell and Sara McCord
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    42
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Lisa Treadwell and Sara McCord
  • Show Website
    The Sandwich Generation

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