Summary: In this episode, host Carole interviews Diala Hillberg, a busy mom and educator, about her journey as a caretaker. Diala shares her experiences raising three children, including her special needs son Luca. She discusses the challenges and joys of parenting a child with a genetic syndrome called DYRK1A. Diala also talks about the importance of finding a supportive community of parents facing similar challenges. She shares how she and her husband co-parent their children and navigate the demands of their busy lives. Diala reflects on the shifting roles between teaching and parenting and the process of re-evaluating her career and life. In this conversation, Carole and Diala discuss the challenges of managing multiple responsibilities and finding balance in life. Diala shares her unique schedule and the difficulties of juggling various roles, including being an adjunct professor and running a tutoring business. They also talk about the importance of accepting limitations and embracing change. Diala introduces her ministry, Balancing Grace, which aims to support women who are losing themselves in their various roles. They discuss the yearning for more and the deeper connection to God that comes with it. The conversation concludes with a focus on self-care and the importance of defining oneself in Him. Takeaways: Raising a child with special needs can be both challenging and rewarding. Finding a supportive community of parents facing similar challenges can provide comfort and valuable insights. Effective co-parenting requires open communication and understanding of each other's needs. Balancing the demands of teaching and parenting can be difficult, but taking it one day at a time and prioritizing self-care can help. Managing multiple responsibilities can be challenging, but it's important to find a balance that works for you. Accepting limitations and embracing change is necessary for personal growth and finding your path. Losing oneself in various roles is common for women, and it's important to prioritize self-care and find support in community. Faith and a strong connection to God can provide guidance and strength in navigating life's challenges. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:35 Diala's Three Kids 07:12 Accepting the Challenge 09:48 Connecting with Others with the Same Syndrome 12:41 Co-Parenting and Balancing Responsibilities 18:13 Re-evaluating Career and Life 18:34 Managing Multiple Responsibilities 19:11 Finding the Best Path 20:03 Teaching College Students 20:48 Accepting Limitations and Embracing Change 21:16 The Caretakers Journey Ministry 22:09 Balancing Grace 23:06 Yearning for More 23:34 Grief and Loss 24:32 The Importance of Balance 25:20 Losing Ourselves in Roles 26:18 Reevaluating Professional Career 27:14 Discipling Children 28:10 Doing Too Much 29:23 Realizing God's Purpose 30:22 Defining Ourselves in Him 31:28 Growing Stronger in Faith3 2:24 Kids' Testimonies 33:20 Self-Care and Acupuncture 34:18 Taking Care of Oneself3 5:23 Encouragement to Keep Going Connect with Diala: Social Media - @Diala.hill 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

Summary: In this episode, host Carole Leathem interviews Donna Jones about healthy conflict. They discuss the impact of conflict on caretakers and how to deal with conflict in a healthy way. Donna emphasizes the importance of taking one conflict at a time and understanding and listening to the care receiver. They also explore the challenges of conflict with aging parents and siblings, as well as caring for someone with mental illness. Donna shares the mistake of being dismissive and the importance of listening and understanding. She highlights the value of collaborating and working together, and the need for humility and dependence on God in approaching conflict. The episode concludes with a discussion on self-care. Takeaways: Conflict is a major contributing factor to the stress and burnout experienced by caretakers. Taking one conflict at a time can help prevent conflicts from escalating and becoming overwhelming. Listening and understanding are key in resolving conflicts and making the care receiver feel loved. Approaching conflict with humility and dependence on God can lead to personal growth and healthier relationships. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:25 The Impact of Conflict on Caretakers 06:25 Taking One Conflict at a Time 07:22 Understanding and Listening to the Care Receiver 08:41 Recognizing and Managing the Weight of Conflict 10:05 Conflict with Aging Parents and Siblings 13:22 The Challenges of Caring for Someone with Mental Illness 15:43 The Importance of Listening and Understanding 19:02 Escalating or Ending Conflict 20:00 Collaborating and Working Together 23:18 Approaching Conflict with Humility and Dependence on God 25:11 Praying for Personal Change 26:21 Closing Remarks and Self-Care Connect with Donna - Website: https://donnajones.org/ Podcast: https://donnajones.org/podcast/ Book: https://donnajones.org/books/ 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

Summary: In this conversation, Mary Demuth discusses the importance of reading the Bible in a condensed period of time, such as the 90-day Bible reading challenge. She highlights how this practice allows readers to see the grand narrative themes of the Bible and make connections between the Old and New Testaments. Mary also emphasizes the power of scripture in bringing healing and hope, especially for caregivers. She shares her own experience of finding solace in the word of God and encourages listeners to create a haven in their homes that brings them joy. Takeaways: Reading the Bible in a condensed period of time allows readers to see the grand narrative themes and make connections between the Old and New Testaments. Scripture is powerful in bringing healing and hope, especially for caregivers. Creating a haven in your home that brings you joy can provide solace and a place to spend time with Jesus. Finding someone in the flesh who can help bear your burdens and getting outside are important for caregivers' well-being. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:21 Mary's 90-Day Bible Reading Challenge 04:01 Brisk Reading of the Bible in 90 Days 06:01 Reading Scripture for Relationship and Worship 07:14 Absorbing Scripture vs. Studying Scripture 08:07 The Importance of Community and Getting Outside 09:35 Understanding the History of Israel 10:05 The Holy Spirit's Indwelling and the New Testament 12:55 The Role of Scripture and the Holy Spirit in Hard Times 14:07 Mary's Daily Scripture Reading Podcast 16:38 Creating a Haven in Your Home 21:45 Taking Care of Yourself: Painting Door Jams Connect with Mary - Website - https://www.marydemuth.com/ Podcast - https://www.marydemuth.com/prayeveryday/ Bookstore - https://www.marydemuth.com/bookstore/ Artwork - https://www.etsy.com/shop/marydemuthart 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

Summary: In this episode, Heather Brown and Carole discuss the importance of finding balance as a caretaker. They explore the parallel lives of caretakers with young children and those caring for older adults. Heather shares practical tips for setting up the day for success, including taking mini resets throughout the day. They also discuss the benefits of going outside and connecting with nature. Heather encourages caretakers to overcome guilt and shame and offers a mindset reset exercise. The episode concludes with a prayer for caretakers. Takeaways: Finding balance as a caretaker is crucial for taking care of yourself and those you care for. Taking mini resets throughout the day can help you stay grounded and refreshed. Spending time outside and connecting with nature has numerous health benefits. Overcoming guilt and shame is essential for self-care as a caretaker. A mindset reset can help you identify and address deeper issues that may be affecting your well-being. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:01 Finding Balance as a Caretaker 03:22 Setting Up the Day for Success 04:16 Taking Mini Resets Throughout the Day 07:18 The Importance of Going Outside 09:23 The Connection Between Nature and Health 11:19 Three Mini Resets a Day 13:37 Overcoming Guilt and Shame as a Caretaker 20:58 Prayer for Caretakers 22:24 Where to Find Heather Brown 24:33 Taking Care of Yourself in the Next 24 Hours 26:12 Closing Remarks Connect with Heather: Website Link: https://www.mylifewellloved.com Instagram Link: https://www.instagram.com/healthybyheatherbrown/ Freebie Shop: https://www.mylifewellloved.com/freebies/ Podcast Apple:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/healthy-by-heather-brown-helping-young-mothers-learn/id1638763905 Podcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6Dtnb1YtnC8WhbGPJv2Om4?si=c7416d55c6ef43bb&nd=1 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

Summary: Anita McVey discusses the importance of food as a love language and the impact of fast food culture. She emphasizes the transformative power of meals and the value of family time and meal sharing. Anita shares her personal experiences and memories connected to food and highlights the significance of creating special moments with food. She also explores the connection between food and Bible stories and the symbolism of bringing food to others. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the importance of self-care for caretakers. Takeaways: Food can be a powerful love language that nourishes, comforts, and creates meaningful connections. Taking the time to prepare and enjoy meals can be transformative and provide an opportunity for connection and reflection. Sharing meals with family and loved ones creates lasting memories and strengthens relationships. Food can be a way to show care and support for others, whether through cooking or sharing meals. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:02 The Importance of Food as a Love Language 03:01 Creating Transformative Moments through Meals 03:28 The Power of Food in Creating Memories 04:23 The Value of Family Time and Meal Sharing 05:22 Finding Time for Family Meals 06:04 The Joy of Going Out to Eat 07:01 Food as a Love Language Beyond Cooking 08:01 Creating Special Moments with Food 09:06 Connecting Food and Bible Stories 10:00 The Godwink of Writing a Book 11:33 Discovering the Role of a Caretaker 12:29 More about the Power of Food in Creating Memories 13:41 Taking Time to Make New Memories 14:42 The Significance of Sharing Meals with Others 16:09 The Importance of Comfort Food 19:24 The Story of Waking Up and the Importance of Nourishment 20:46 The Connection Between Food and Bible Stories 22:04 The Symbolism of Bringing Food to Others 23:15 Taking Care of Yourself as a Caretaker 24:45 Practicing Self-Care 26:13 Where to Find Anita's Books and Blog 27:24 Closing Thoughts Connect with Anita: Favorite Recipe in the book - Chicken Essex Casserole Website/Blog/Book - https://picniclifefoodie.com/ Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/picniclifefoodie Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/picniclifefoodie/ Connect with Carole: Website - https://www.carolesjourney.com/ Book - https://www.amazon.com/Ready-Find-Your-Messy-Life/dp/B0BRM1V94L/ Social Media - @carolesjourney

Summary: Dr. Kennita Williams, a leadership wellness expert, discusses the importance of managing emotions and finding balance in leadership. She shares her journey of starting Clear Vision, a platform that helps leaders embrace authenticity and deal with their emotions. Dr. Williams emphasizes the impact of emotional balance on the overall health of an organization and provides practical tips for leaders to manage their emotions effectively. She also highlights the significance of self-care and shares a scripture that serves as the foundation of Clear Vision. Takeaways: Emotional balance is crucial for effective leadership and the overall health of an organization. Leaders need to take care of themselves emotionally in order to lead from a healthy place. Practical tips for managing emotions include pausing, breathing, and seeking guidance from God. Self-care is essential for maintaining emotional balance and overall well-being. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Kennita Williams 02:40 The Start of Clear Vision 06:00 The Importance of Managing Emotions 10:03 The Impact of Emotional Balance on Leadership 13:20 Practical Tips for Balancing Emotions 19:01 How to Connect with Dr. Kennita Williams 20:18 Taking Care of Yourself 21:41 Closing Thoughts and Scripture Connect with Dr Kennita - https://www.clearvisionconsultingllc.org/ Scripture - 1 Thessalonians 5:12-28 Connect with Carole - http://www.thecaretakersjourney.com/ Carole's Book - https://www.carolesjourney.com/book

Summary: In this episode, Pastor Jack Leathem discusses the topic of prayer and how he teaches students to pray. He emphasizes the importance of surrendering control to God and understanding that prayer is a conversation with Him. Pastor Jack also addresses the question of how to pray when it seems like God may not change the circumstances. He shares personal stories and examples to illustrate the different ways God answers prayers. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of self-care for caretakers. Takeaways: Prayer is a conversation with God and should involve surrendering control to Him. God answers prayers in different ways: yes, no, or wait. God's timing in answering prayers may be different from our own expectations. Taking care of ourselves as caretakers is essential for our well-being and ability to care for others. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:23 Pastor Jack's Background 02:27 Teaching Students to Pray 07:52 Praying in Difficult Circumstances 08:05 Understanding God's Response to Prayer 13:14 God's Timing in Answered Prayers 17:25 Taking Care of Ourselves as Caretakers 27:59 Taking Care of Yourself 30:35 Closing Remarks Website: https://www.thecaretakersjourney.com/ Book: https://www.carolesjourney.com/book

Summary In this episode, Carole and Rebecca discuss the birth of the Caretaker's Journey podcast and Carole's personal journey as a caretaker. They explore the importance of finding joy in the midst of challenges and the need for self-care. They also discuss the four core values of caretaking: spiritual, emotional, physical, and mental. The episode concludes with closing remarks and encouragement for listeners. Takeaways: Caretaking can be a challenging journey, but finding joy in the midst of challenges is possible. Self-care is essential for caretakers to effectively care for others. The four core values of caretaking are spiritual, emotional, physical, and mental. Listeners are encouraged to follow the podcast for future meaningful conversations. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:01 The Birth of the Caretakers Journey 03:18 Carole's Journey as a Caretaker 05:12 Finding Joy in the midst of challenges 08:00 The Importance of Self-Care for Caretakers 12:41 The Four Core Values of Caretaking 18:18 Closing Remarks and Encouragement Links: Rebecca George: Podcast - Radical Radiance Live Book - Do the Thing Carole Leathem: Website - The Caretaker's Journey.com Book - Are You Ready to Find Joy When Life Gets Messy?

Summary: The Caretakers Journey podcast is introduced highlighting the importance of supporting and bringing awareness to caretakers.  The definition of a caretaker is explored including the various roles and responsibilities they may have. The concept of caretaker burnout is discussed emphasizing the need for caretakers to prioritize self-care.  The role of faith and spirituality in providing strength and guidance for caretakers is examined.  The importance of strengthening the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of life is emphasized.  Living life with purpose and finding a supportive community are highlighted as essential for caretakers.  The power of hope and connecting with others is discussed, along with the importance of taking care of oneself. Takeaways: Caretakers play a vital role in providing care and support for others. Caretaker burnout is a real and serious issue that can be avoided through self-care. Faith and spirituality can provide strength and guidance for caretakers. Caretakers need to prioritize their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Finding purpose, community, and hope can greatly impact the caretaker journey. Taking care of oneself is essential for effective caretaking. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Caretakers Journey 01:02 Defining a Caretaker 02:02 Caretaker Burnout 03:01 Taking Care of Ourselves 04:00 Finding Strength in Faith 05:26 Strengthening the Four Areas of Life 06:22 Living Life with Purpose 07:19 The Need for Community 08:17 The Power of Hope 09:15 Connecting with Others 10:08 Taking Care of Yourself 11:12 Closing Thoughts Links: Connect with Carole: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/carolesjourney/ Website - https://www.thecaretakersjourney.com/ Book: Are You Ready to Find Joy When Life Gets Messy? How I’m surviving my husband’s struggles with anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts. https://www.amazon.com/Ready-Find-Your-Messy-Life/dp/B0BRM1V94L