Everything I Wish I Had Known - A Conversation with Author Leah Stanley

Leah Stanley was just 29 and barely a year into her marriage when everything changed—both of her grandparents were diagnosed with dementia on the same day. With zero caregiving experience and no idea what to expect, she suddenly found herself making medical decisions, juggling paperwork, and learning how to care for the people who once cared for her. In our conversation, Leah shares what those early days were really like—and what she wishes someone had told her sooner. Her story is raw, relatable, and filled with lessons that every caregiver (or future caregiver) should hear.Leah is now an Award-winning Author and National Speaker who’s made it her mission to support caregivers through storytelling, education, and encouragement. We talk about her books Goodnight Sweet: A Caregiver’s Long Goodbye and Everything I Wish I Had Known—and the real-life experiences behind them. She opens up about the importance of being legally and emotionally prepared, why hospice can be a lifesaver long before the end, and how to communicate with a loved one living with dementia in a way that truly connects. Whether you’re knee-deep in caregiving or just feeling that quiet nudge to start learning more, this conversation will stick with you. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or wondered “am I doing this right?”—Leah’s been there and now she’s here to help. You’ll come away with helpful tips, yes—but more than that, you’ll feel seen, supported, and a little more ready for whatever comes next.Key Timestamps:[00:00:00] Introduction.[00:02:37] Caregiving journey insights and advice.[00:07:15] Dementia diagnosis awareness.[00:11:47] Power of attorney documents explained.[00:13:03] Legal documents for family care.[00:18:00] Understanding the nature of dementia and its challenges.Memorable Quotes:"I want to help people understand. I don't want anybody in the confusion that I was in. It was awful." – Leah Stanley"Hospice does not always mean end of life. It can. And if you are at a place like that, having that support is fantastic." – Leah StanleyLinks Mentioned:Continuing Education Course: https://hiscornerstone.com/product/everything-i-wish-id-known-caring-for-a-loved-one-with-dementia/ Amazon link to Leah Stanley’s books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Leah-Stanley/author/B07L48596K?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true Connect With Leah Stanley:Website: https://www.e3caregiving.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/e3caresFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/leahstanleybooksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahstanleybooks/Connect With Us:Website: https://acthhs.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caring_touch_home_health/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064240562985&_rdc=2&_rdrLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a-caring-touch-home-health-services/Produced by Evolved Podcasting: https://www.evolvedpodcasting.com