Inspired Caring
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 [email protected]
219. The Power of Music in Dementia Care: Insights from a Music Therapist Tara Jenkins
Summary In this episode, Tara Jenkins, a board-certified music therapist, shares her insights on how music can be a powerful tool in dementia care, emotional connection, and caregiver support. Discover practical tips, scientific insights, and personal stories that highlight the transformative power of music. keywordsmusic therapy, dementia care, emotional connection, caregiver support, neuroplasticity, music and memory, mental health, therapeutic music, neurodiversity, holistic health key topicsMusic activates multiple brain areas including memory and emotionMusic can evoke positive and negative emotional responsesPersonalized music choices are crucial for meaningful engagementOverstimulation and environment impact music therapy effectivenessMusic can be used for relaxation, motivation, and emotional releaseThe importance of knowing individual music preferences and historyMusic therapy supports both people with dementia and caregiversCreating playlists and using music for self-care and stress reliefFull circle moments and personal stories highlight music's impactGuidelines for safe and effective music use in care settings sound bites"Music activates many areas of our brain at once""Music connects us emotionally to a time and place""Music can impact us both positively and negatively"Chapters00:00 Audio Setup Challenges00:58 Introduction to Music Therapy06:25 The Science of Music and Memory12:28 Emotional Connections to Music16:06 Navigating Music's Impact on Emotions20:19 Understanding Individual Preferences in Music Therapy23:26 Creating a Calm Environment for Dementia Care24:53 The Importance of Choice in Music Therapy28:30 Using Music for Different Therapeutic Outcomes33:51 Incorporating Music Preferences in Care Plans37:41 Exploring New Music and Emotional Connections43:01 The Emotional Spectrum of Music and Caregiving45:52 Building Community Through Music Therapy50:18 Encouragement for Caregivers and Personal Playlists53:04 Podcast Intro Music Project (MASTER BOUNCE - OUTRO).mp3 resourcesCheck out Tara's Link TreeInstagramLinkedInWebsiteHilarity for CharityWhat's Tara listening to?Olivia Dean and Led Zeplin
Jul 10
53 min
218. Being Your Loved One's "Care-Leader" with Caregiver & Author Mark Wilson
Summary Mark Wilson shares his inspiring journey of leaving a successful corporate career to step into the role of caring for his mother living with Alzheimer's. Mark highlights leadership in caregiving, mistakes to avoid, and practical strategies for improving quality of life. This episode offers valuable insights for family caregivers seeking to lead with love, safety, and innovation. keywordsAlzheimer's care, caregiving leadership, caregiver mistakes, dementia support, family caregiving, care team management, Alzheimer's book, caregiving tips, caregiver resilience, patient safetykey topicsLeadership in caregivingMistakes in dementia careBuilding a care teamCreating a joyful environment for loved onestakeawaysListening to your gut can prevent mistakes.Caregiving is a leadership role, not just a task.Choosing the right caregivers is crucial for safety and happiness.Creating a fun, engaging environment improves quality of life.Advocating for better laws can help all families. sound bites"Listen to your gut, it knows best.""Make the journey joyful, not just bearable.""Love involves sacrifice, make it joyful."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Caregiving Journey03:23 Transitioning from Executive to Caregiver07:44 Building a Care Team11:08 Interviewing Caregivers: Key Considerations16:49 The Role of a Care Leader21:38 Learning from Mistakes in Caregiving23:05 Navigating Healthcare Decisions25:00 Navigating Grief and Medical Decisions30:19 Advocacy and Legal Challenges in Healthcare31:13 The Journey of Writing a Book35:39 Lessons from Caregiving and Leadership40:55 Hope and Positivity for Caregivers47:57 Podcast Intro Music Project (MASTER BOUNCE - OUTRO).mp3Book - Breakthrough Alzheimer's Care A Guide to Finding Courage, Longevity, and Joy on the JourneyInspired 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 tobusinesses to provide for the families they work with.Connect with Michele Magner:⁠Website⁠⁠E-mail⁠Instagram⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠YouTubeCustom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. He does custom songs for any occasion.
May 22
48 min
217. Understanding Risk: Lessons from a World Series Poker Champion, Phil Galfond
summary In this episode, Phil Galfond, a three-time World Series of Poker champ, and Michele Magner discuss insights on risk, decision-making, and how lessons from poker can be applied to caregiving and life. They explore the parallels between poker strategies, managing life's uncertainties, luck, emphasizing the importance of trust, self-awareness, and embracing risk. Phil has an important message for caregivers that you won't want to miss. keywordsRisk, Decision-Making, Poker, Caregiving, Uncertainty, Mental Models, Life Lessons, Strategy, Psychology, Personal Growth, Trust, Blame, Mistakes key topicsRisk and uncertainty in decision-makingLessons from poker applicable to caregiving and lifeThe importance of trust and self-awareness in risk management sound bites"Risk is in every decision we make""Certainty is an illusion""Perfection is not the right measure"Chapters00:00 Introduction to Phil Galfond and the poker World03:49 Understanding Risk in Poker and Life06:42 The Journey from Casual Player to Professional09:41 Defining Risk and Its Perception12:59 The Illusion of Control and Certainty16:01 Navigating Decisions and Outcomes19:05 The Role of Luck and Decision-Making21:59 Desensitization to Risk in Poker25:00 Trusting Yourself in Decision-Making27:52 The Complexity of Care Decisions31:00 Transferring Risk in Caregiving33:48 Reflections on Loss and Luck in Poker35:07 The Role of Luck and Skill in Decision Making40:32 Understanding Risk in Caregiving and Business46:06 The Cost of Care: Expectations vs. Reality53:58 Navigating Public Failure and Personal Growth01:03:55 Podcast Intro Music Project (MASTER BOUNCE - OUTRO).mp3Phil's membership for poker players Run it Once.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:⁠Website⁠⁠E-mail⁠Instagram⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠YouTube⁠Custom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. He does custom songs for any occasion.
May 8
1 hr 4 min
216. Forgetting to Remember with Documentary Filmmaker Brent Roberts
Summary In this inspiring interview, filmmaker Brent Roberts shares his journey from wildly diverse backgrounds to creating a powerful documentary about Alzheimer's disease. The documentary shares the story of Luke, a 50 year old man in Iowa who is the 5th generation in his family to be diagnosed with younger onset Alzheimer's disease. The film focuses on hope, humor, and the importance of end-of-life options. Discover how personal stories can transform perceptions and drive change in healthcare and society. keywordsAlzheimer's, documentary, end-of-life options, storytelling, mental health, caregiving, hope, humor, advocacy, film key topicsThe journey of creating 'Forgetting to Remember'The role of humor and hope in Alzheimer's storytellingAdvocacy for end-of-life options and medical aid in dyingResidential Assisted Living sound bites"This disease is such a thief in so many ways.""I'm here for a good time, not a long time.""Kick Alzheimer's in the Ballzheimer's"Chapters00:00 Introduction to Brent Roberts and His Journey07:58 The Connection with Luke and the Documentary12:14 The Power of Connection and Storytelling16:02 Finding Joy Amidst Alzheimer's21:19 Expanding Possibilities After Diagnosis24:40 Confronting Shame and Stigma29:27 Goals and Aspirations for the Film32:57 Navigating End-of-Life Conversations40:13 Being Open to Medical Assistance in Dying47:48 Humor and Hope in the Face of Alzheimer's56:49 Community and Collaboration in Filmmaking01:04:23 Podcast Intro Music Project (MASTER BOUNCE - OUTRO).mp3ResourcesLearn More or Donate Now: Forgetting to RememberForgetting to Remember on FacebookAlzheimer's Association Hilarity for Charity Legato Living - Residential Assisted LivingInspired 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:⁠Website⁠⁠E-mail⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠YouTube⁠Custom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. He does custom songs for any occasion.
May 1
1 hr 4 min
215. Preventing "Careheimer's Disease" A Conversation with Caregiver Marty Schreiber
Summary In this heartfelt interview, Marty Schreiber shares his personal journey caring for his wife Elaine through Alzheimer's, offering invaluable insights on caregiving. He shares new terms he has coined such as "therapeutic fibbing" and "Careheimer's Disease", and shares the important observation that Alzheimer's is not a "chicken casserole disease". Discover practical advice, emotional resilience tips, and the power of humor in navigating long-term care challenges. keywordsAlzheimer's, caregiving, therapeutic fibbing, self-care, emotional resilience, caregiving tips, Alzheimer's support, caregiver stress, mental health, caregiving journey key topicsPersonal caregiving journey with Alzheimer'sTherapeutic fibbing as a caregiving toolThe importance of self-care and support for caregiverstakeawaysTherapeutic fibbing helps caregivers join the world of the person with Alzheimer's.Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.Caregivers must prioritize self-care to avoid stress-related illnesses.Sharing personal stories can provide comfort and guidance to others. sound bites"Ask for help — it's a sign of courage.""You're a fool if you don't get help.""Do the best you can with what you know."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Caregiving and Alzheimer's04:19 The Journey to Diagnosis11:27 Understanding Therapeutic Fibbing19:21 The Importance of Self-Care25:25 The Role of Community Support30:57 Navigating Guilt and Emotional Challenges33:31 Reflections on Caregiving and Lifelines37:05 Podcast Intro Music Project (MASTER BOUNCE - OUTRO).mp3 resourcesBuy My Two Elaines on Amazon Connect with Marty through My Two Elaines WebsiteInspired 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:⁠Website⁠⁠E-mail⁠Instagram⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠YouTube⁠Custom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. He does custom songs for any occasion.
Apr 17
37 min
214. The Fair Play System: Redefining Household Responsibilities with Eve Rodsky
Summary In this insightful interview, Eve Rodsky, author and founder of Fair Play, discusses the systemic issues of gendered unpaid labor, caregiving, and how to foster equity in household responsibilities. She shares personal stories, research insights, and practical strategies to empower women and men to create more balanced and fulfilling lives.We dive into Unicorn space where women reclaim their right to be interested in their own lives. This is the time you generate to be creative, connect with yourself and explore as a human. Unicorn space is not for:Self CareTime with FriendsWorking outBeauty/Medical treatment timeZoning out watching TVThese are things you bake into your calendar to keep your body and mind going, they need to be a given in your life! keywordsFair Play, gender roles, unpaid labor, caregiving, household management, equity, systemic change, women empowerment, men involvement, work-life balance key topicsSystemic gender roles in unpaid laborFair Play system and cards for household managementThe impact of patriarchy on caregiving and time managementStrategies for women to reclaim agency and balanceThe importance of ownership and accountability in household tasks sound bites"Gratitude is a value we teach our children""Guilt changes women's behaviors automatically"Chapters00:00 Introduction to Fair Play and Caregiving Dynamics07:22 The Evolution of Fair Play and Gender Roles14:06 Understanding the Invisible Work of Caregiving20:47 Toxic Time Messages and Their Impact on Women27:46 Unicorn Space: Finding Personal Identity34:34 Inspiration and Agency in Caregiving39:12 Podcast Intro Music Project (MASTER BOUNCE - OUTRO).mp3ResourcesFair Play bookFair Play cardsFair Play Policy InstituteFair Play Documentary TrailorFind Your Unicorn Space bookFair Play on InstagramFair Play on FacebookInspiration: YOU inspire Eve.Go Solo by Tom RosenthalInspired 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:⁠Website⁠⁠E-mail⁠Instagram⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠YouTube⁠Custom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. He does custom songs for any occasion.
Apr 10
39 min
213. The Future of Senior Living 2026 and Beyond with Bruce J. Lederman
Summary In this insightful interview with Bruce Lederman, President and CEO of Charles E. Smith Lifestyle Communities, he shares his extensive experience in senior living, exploring its evolution, current challenges, and future trends, especially focusing on the pivotal year 2026. The discussion covers industry history, policy impacts, generational perspectives, economic factors, innovative care models like PACE and the importance of understanding aging options. The conversation emphasizes the importance of choice, social connection, and addressing ageism in aging care.keywordssenior living, aging, PACE, policy, ageism, elder care, innovation, future of senior care, inclusionkey topicsThe impact of policy changes on senior livingThe role of PACE in elder careAddressing ageism and social isolation in agingsound bites"The legislature is looking at pretty significant cuts for Medicaid""Why can't Surveyors of senior living also be coaches at the same time that they're holding nursing homes to standards?"Chapters00:00 Introduction to Senior Living and Its Evolution03:43 Personal Journeys in Senior Living07:04 Generational Perspectives on Aging09:40 The Economics of Aging and Senior Living12:36 Challenges in Senior Living Options14:58 Navigating Long-Term Care Insurance and Family Dynamics17:48 The Evolution of Senior Living Services21:08 The Role of Technology in Aging23:38 Policy Challenges and Opportunities in Senior Care26:52 The Importance of Family and Community in Senior Living27:50 Regulatory Frameworks and Oversight in Senior Care30:21 Inclusivity and Diversity in Aging33:15 The Complexity of Aging and Decision-Making35:38 Fighting Ageism and Valuing Older Adults52:03 Podcast Intro Music Project (MASTER BOUNCE - OUTRO).mp3ResourcesConnect with Bruce J. Lederman on LinkedInNational Pace Association to find a PACE program in your area. Charles E. Smith Life Communities SAGE - Services & Advocacy for GLBT EldersRest is History Podcast 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:⁠Website⁠⁠E-mail⁠Instagram⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠YouTube⁠Custom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. He does custom songs for any occasion.
Mar 27
52 min
212. Bridging the Gap in Senior Care: A New Platform for Trust and Safety with Sherri Combs
Summary In this insightful interview, Sherri Combs, Founder of Silver Streak Senior Services, shares her journey from the finance industry to senior care resources and advocacy. She discusses the challenges families face in finding trustworthy resources, the importance of community collaboration, and her innovative platform designed to protect seniors from scams while connecting them with vetted local services. keywordssenior care, elder scams, trusted resources, community collaboration, senior services platform, elder advocacy, family caregiving, aging in place, senior safety, resource hub key topicsThe disconnect in senior care resource searchBuilding trust in elder servicesCommunity collaboration for senior independence and safetysound bites"Seniors are terrified of getting scammed""We’re taking back their autonomy and dignity""The honey trap scams target lonely seniors"Chapters00:00 Introduction to Silver Streak Senior Services03:45 Sherry Combs' Background and Motivation07:02 Bridging the Gap for Seniors09:43 The Importance of Collaboration13:08 Understanding Scams Targeting Seniors15:43 Membership and Services Offered19:00 Recognition and Future Plans21:50 The Just in Case Plan Book25:00 Advice for Caregivers27:42 The Urgency of Resources for Seniors39:03 Podcast Intro Music Project (MASTER BOUNCE - OUTRO).mp3 resourcesWebsite - https://silverstreekseniorservices.comDownload the The Just in Case Plan Free Workbook!Purchase the book: THE JUST IN CASE PLAN: SMART STRATEGIES FOR LONG TERM CARE, FAMILY CONVERSATIONS AND LEGACY PROTECTIONArea Office on Aging in NebraskaOutwitting the Devil by Napoleon HillInspired 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 tobusinesses to provide for the families they work with.Connect with Michele Magner:⁠Website⁠⁠E-mail⁠Instagram⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠YouTube⁠Custom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. He does custom songs for any occasion.
Mar 13
39 min
211. Long-Term Caregiving: Lessons from Tammy Jensen's 27 Year Journey - Part 2
Summary Tammy Jensen picks up where she left off from episode 210, sharing her 27 year caregiving journey caring for her daughter and both of her parents. In this episode she shares challenges they've faced, boundaries she is firm on, and the importance of self-care and community support in navigating dementia care. keywordscaregiving, dementia, boundaries, self-care, family support, memory care, caregiver tips, dementia care challenges key topicsImportance of boundaries and self-careChallenges with memory care and family dynamicssound bites"Don't question the care being provided""Set boundaries to protect your well-being""Trust your intuition in caregiving decisions"Chapters00:00 Finding Balance and Self-Care02:14 Establishing Boundaries as a Caregiver08:22 Navigating Family Dynamics and External Opinions12:06 Finding Support and Coaching in Caregiving18:36 Quality of Life and Care Decisions24:53 The Challenges of Family Communication30:24 Education and Understanding Dementia34:42 The Importance of Checking In on Caregivers41:41 Podcast Intro Music Project (MASTER BOUNCE - OUTRO).mp3Follow Hannah & Tammy on TikTok ⁠@livelifelikehannah ⁠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 tobusinesses to provide for the families they work with.Connect with Michele Magner:⁠Website⁠⁠E-mail⁠Instagram⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠YouTube⁠Custom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. He does custom songs for any occasion.
Mar 6
41 min
210. Long-Term Caregiving: Lessons from Tammy Jensen's 27-Year Journey - Part 1
Summary - Part 1 In this heartfelt conversation, Tammy Jensen shares her long-term caregiving journey of her daughter who is God's pure love & light and 27 years ago was born with 2 rare syndromes. In recent years, Tammy has also cared for both of her parents, who each lived with different types of dementia. She shares personal stories as she describes caring for each of her beloved family members. We discover insights on planning, community support, emotional resilience, and the importance of proactive communication and self-care in caregiving. This conversation was so informative (we talked for 1 1/2 hours!) that it became a 2 part series. Check out Episode 211 for the remainder of this conversation.keywordscaregiving, dementia, special needs, long-term care, planning, community support, emotional resilience, caregiving tips key topicsCaregiving journey for a child with rare syndromesLong-term care planning and legal preparationsChallenges and obstacles faced in caregivingCommunity support and the importance of social connectionsEmotional resilience and self-care for caregiversSound bites"Hindsight's 2020, we did the best we could.""Proactive planning reduces future stress.""Self-care is not selfish, it's necessary."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Caregiving Journey05:22 The Complexity of Caregiving13:02 Finding Support and Resources17:16 Future Planning for Special Needs21:29 The Importance of Transparency28:02 Navigating Obstacles in Caregiving38:52 Finding Balance and Self-Care43:55 Establishing Boundaries as a Caregiver45:08 Podcast Intro Music Project (MASTER BOUNCE - OUTRO).mp3Follow Hannah on TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@livelifelikehannahInspired 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:⁠Website⁠⁠E-mail⁠Instagram⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠YouTube⁠Custom podcast music written and produced by Colin Roberts. He does custom songs for any occasion.
Mar 4
45 min
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