Better Together

Host and President Steph Cain is joined by Tracy Haddad, a Columbus community leader and supporter of Our Hospice. Tracy shares her perspective on the importance of giving back, the impact of strong community leadership, and her family’s experience with hospice care. Together, they discuss what makes Columbus special and how individuals can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

In this episode of the Better Together Podcast, Steph Cain talks with Cathy Betz, After-Hours RN, about what happens when care needs feel urgent—especially in the middle of the night. From unexpected symptoms to difficult decisions, Cathy shares how she supports families through stressful moments with calm guidance, reassurance, and experience. This episode offers insight into what families can expect after hours and how the hospice team is always there to help Make Every Moment Count. Learn more at ourhospice.org or call 812-314-8083

In recognition of National Social Work Month, this episode highlights the vital role our hospice social workers play in supporting patients and families across every stage of care. Joined by three members of our social work team, Steph explores how they provide guidance, emotional support, and practical solutions—helping families navigate complex decisions while keeping what matters most at the center. From meaningful patient stories to everyday moments of connection, this episode offers a closer look at how social workers walk alongside families—easing burdens, honoring wishes, and helping ensure each experience reflects our mission of Making Every Moment Count.

In this episode of the Better Together Podcast, President Steph Cain sits down with Brittany Meyer, RN, and Jen Bitner, MSW Intern, to talk about what families may notice as a loved one approaches the end of life. Brittany shares the physical changes that often occur in the final days and weeks, including increased sleep, changes in appetite, and how the body naturally begins to slow down. Jen offers perspective on the emotional side of the journey, explaining how families often experience uncertainty, anxiety, and questions about what to expect—and how the hospice team helps guide them through those moments. Together, they discuss common concerns families have, such as eating and drinking, recognizing signs of comfort, and how simply being present can be one of the most meaningful ways to support a loved one. They also share personal stories from their work that highlight how end-of-life moments can still be filled with connection, memories, and even joy. Through education, compassion, and guidance, the hospice team walks alongside patients and their loved ones to help make every moment count. To learn more about hospice services, visit ourhospice.org or call 812-314-8083.

As a serious illness progresses, daily life can begin to look different for both patients and the people who care for them. In this episode of the Better Together Podcast, Steph Cain, President of Our Hospice, sits down with Clinical Director Amy Lowe to talk about what families often notice first when care needs begin to change. Amy shares what comfort really means in day-to-day hospice care, the symptoms families tend to worry about most, and how the care team supports both patients and their loved ones when things begin to feel overwhelming. It’s an honest conversation about recognizing changes, understanding what to expect, and how hospice walks alongside families to help them focus on what matters most. Learn more about Our Hospice and listen to the podcast at ourhospice.org/podcast or call 812-314-8083 to learn more about our Family of Services.

When the word “hospice” is first mentioned, it can bring a wave of emotions — fear, uncertainty, relief, and sometimes even guilt. In this episode of Better Together, Christy Henderson, Referral Specialist, and Susie Wagner, Admissions RN, walk us through what really happens when hospice enters the conversation. From that first referral call to the initial admission visit, they share what families are often feeling, the questions they ask most, and the misconceptions that can cause hesitation. More importantly, they explain what families actually experience during those first steps — and how hospice is designed to support, not overwhelm. If you or someone you love is navigating serious illness, this conversation offers clarity, reassurance, and insight into one of life’s most important transitions. To learn more about hospice care or to speak with someone on our team, visit ourhospice.org or call 812-314-8083.

In Part 2 of this conversation, host and president Steph Cain continues her discussion with Lorie Mount to debunk common misconceptions around trusts, probate, and long-term care planning. Lorie explains why having a trust does not automatically protect assets, how Indiana’s probate process works, and what families should understand about Medicaid and nursing home care. She also shares real-life examples of how thoughtful planning can bring peace of mind, reduce stress during crisis, and even create meaningful charitable legacies. Planning ahead is not just about assets — it’s about protecting people and preserving what matters most. To learn more about the Better Together podcast, visit: https://www.ourhospice.org/podcast To learn more about Our Hospice services or speak with someone about care, call: 812-314-8083 For more information about estate planning services with Voelz, Reed & Mount LLC, visit: https://voelzlaw.com/

In Part 1 of this conversation, host and president Steph Cain is joined by Lorie Mount, a Columbus-based attorney and board member of Our Hospice, to talk through the legal planning steps that matter most at the end of life. Lorie breaks down estate planning into clear, approachable terms, focusing on advance directives, health care decision-making, and powers of attorney — and why having these documents in place can bring peace of mind long before a crisis occurs. Together, they explore how planning ahead helps ensure wishes are honored, reduces stress for loved ones, and supports our shared goal of making every moment count. Listen now at ourhospice.org/podcast or call 812-314-8083.

In this episode, host and president Steph Cain sits down with Jacob Fleckenstein, Director of Business Development, to talk about the family of services and how different types of care work together as needs change. From personal care to hospice, Jacob helps break down where each service fits, clears up common misconceptions, and explains why reaching out earlier can make a meaningful difference for patients and loved ones. It’s a helpful conversation for anyone trying to understand what support is available—and where to start when questions come up. Listen now at ourhospice.org/podcast

In this episode, Steph Cain sits down with Dr. Anderson, Our Hospice and Palliative Care Medical Director, to talk about goals of care—what the term really means, why these conversations matter, and how they help ensure care is guided by what matters most to each person. They discuss how goals-of-care conversations can bring clarity and peace of mind for patients and loved ones, especially when they happen before a crisis. Dr. Anderson also shares insight on advance care planning tools like Five Wishes, which you can explore at: https://www.fivewishes.org/for-myself/ During the conversation, Steph and Dr. Anderson also reference Episode 2, “How Do You Talk to a Loved One About Hospice Care?”, which can be found here: https://youtu.be/wYXB60x41l0 To listen to this and other episodes, visit ourhospice.org/podcast.

Hospice, Faith, and Service: A Conversation with Walter Glover In this episode, Steph Cain, President of Our Hospice, sits down with Walter Glover, a longtime bereavement volunteer whose relationship with hospice has come full circle. Walter spent many years walking alongside others through grief—facilitating bereavement groups and mentoring chaplains—and now joins the conversation as someone receiving hospice services himself. Walter reflects on faith, service, loss, and what it means to care for the whole person. He also shares how his experiences in ministry, writing, and adventure have shaped his life, including using his travels and books as a way to give back. Walter is the author of several books exploring adventure, pilgrimage, and meaning. Signed copies are available at Viewpoint Books in downtown Columbus.

As we begin a new year, this special episode of Better Together looks back at some of the most meaningful conversations from our first 17 episodes. From reflections on history and growth to stories of compassion, service, and what matters most, this year in review highlights the voices and moments that shaped the podcast in 2025. Join us as we revisit key insights, memorable stories, and the themes that continue to guide the work and mission of Our Hospice—making every moment count. Listen now at ourhospice.org/podcast or call 812-314-8083 to learn more.

In Part 2 of our conversation with Sandy Carmichael, we continue exploring the early years of hospice and the experiences that shaped its foundation. Sandy reflects on building hospice during a time of growth and change, the importance of advocacy and leadership, and the role community support played in making that work possible. This episode continues the Honoring the Past, Rebuilding the Future series and highlights how those early efforts continue to influence the work being done today. Learn more about our hospice at ourhospice.org or by calling 812-314-8083.

The holidays can be especially challenging for individuals and families who are grieving. In this episode of the Better Together Podcast, President and host Steph Cain is joined by Paula Neibert, LSW, Bereavement Specialist at Our Hospice, for a thoughtful and compassionate conversation about navigating grief during the holiday season. Paula shares insights from her work coordinating bereavement programs at Our Hospice, offering practical guidance, gentle reassurance, and meaningful ways to honor loved ones while caring for yourself. Together, Steph and Paula explore common emotions that surface during the holidays, how grief can change from year to year, and the importance of giving yourself permission to grieve in your own way. This episode serves as a supportive reminder that no one has to walk through grief alone—and that help, understanding, and hope are available, even during the most difficult seasons. Listen now at ourhospice.org/podcast and subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts. To learn more about bereavement services at Our Hospice, visit ourhospice.org or call 812-314-8083.

Episode 15 of the Better Together Podcast continues our Honoring the Past, Rebuilding the Future series with a special two-part conversation featuring Sandy Carmichael, one of our founders and first leader of Our Hospice. In Part 1, Sandy reflects on the earliest days of hospice in our community—sharing stories of grassroots efforts, education, fundraising, and the relationships that helped shape Our Hospice from the very beginning. Her insights offer a meaningful look at the foundation that made today’s care possible. Stay tuned for Part 2, where the conversation continues as Sandy shares more about the growth of hospice care, advocacy at the state and national level, and the lasting legacy of those early efforts.

In Part 2 of our Honoring the Past, Rebuilding the Future series, we welcome our first guest in the series: longtime community leader, volunteer, and donor Hutch Shumaker. Hutch, a third-generation owner of the Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Columbus, reflects on his decades of service supporting Our Hospice—dating back to the organization’s earliest days. With warmth, humor, and deep sincerity, Hutch shares how a simple flyer and a $100 check led him into the second-ever volunteer training class in the early 1980s. He recounts meaningful moments at the bedside, unforgettable home visits, and the powerful lessons learned while walking alongside families at the end of life. Hutch also revisits the origins of early hospice traditions, including Christmas caroling and the creation of the first Hospice Concert. Through his stories, Hutch offers a heartfelt reminder of how compassion, community, and the courage to show up can transform lives. His reflections honor the legacy of those who built the foundation of hospice care—and inspire us as we look toward the future. A moving and memorable conversation you won’t want to miss. Listen now at ourhospice.org/podcast

In this episode, host and President Steph Cain sits down with longtime board members Tom Dowd and Dr. Dave Thompson to look back on the original 2003 capital campaign that made our Hospice Center a reality. Together, they share heartfelt stories from those early days—how the Columbus community rallied around a vision for compassionate end-of-life care, how donors and partners stepped forward, and what it felt like to see the Center open its doors for the first time. Tom and Dr. Dave also reflect on the years since: the growth of Our Hospice, the families served within these walls, and the lasting impact of those who helped build the Center more than 20 years ago. As Steph introduces the new Hospice Center Refresh Campaign, the conversation naturally shifts toward the future—why the refresh is needed, how it honors our original donors, and how it will help us continue delivering what matters most to patients and families for decades to come. It’s a thoughtful blend of history, gratitude, and a shared vision for the next chapter of our mission. Listen now at ourhospice.org/podcast. Available on YouTube, Apple and Spotify.

In this episode of the Better Together Podcast, President and host Steph Cain sits down with Beth West, RN Case Manager serving patients and families in Decatur County. As part of National Hospice and Palliative Care Month, we’re celebrating the compassionate professionals who make our mission possible every day—and Beth offers a meaningful look into that work. She shares, in her own words, what a typical day in hospice nursing looks like: coordinating care, managing symptoms, supporting loved ones, and being present for families during some of life’s most profound moments. Listen now at ourhospice.org/podcast and subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts. To learn more about Our Hospice, visit ourhospice.org or call 812-314-8083.

On this episode of the Better Together Podcast, host Steph Cain, President of Our Hospice of South Central Indiana, sits down with Dennis Fogle to reflect on community, caregiving, and what it really means to show up for one another. Dennis shares grounded wisdom, memorable stories, and the small practices that add up to dignity, comfort, and connection—especially when life feels heaviest. If you’re a caregiver, a healthcare professional, or simply someone trying to love your people well, this conversation offers calm clarity and practical encouragement. Listen and follow: • Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/OurHospiceSpotify • Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/OurHospiceApplePodcast • YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/OurHospiceYoutubeChannel — The Better Together Podcast is produced by Our Hospice of South Central Indiana to educate, encourage, and connect our South Central Indiana community with compassionate end-of-life and palliative care resources.

In this Better Together episode, Steph Cain sits down with Sarah Stephens, Manager of Support Services at Our Hospice, to demystify advanced care planning—before a crisis hits. Sarah shares how simple, early conversations about “what matters most to you—today and later” can bring families peace, reduce stress, and ensure care aligns with personal values, faith, and end-of-life wishes. You’ll hear: Why talking now (while calm) protects your loved ones during hard moments A moving family story about honoring faith traditions at the end of life Practical first steps: how to start the conversation with your care team and family The role of living wills and healthcare proxies—and how they work together How hospice support (social workers, chaplains, nurses) helps you plan so you can be present Listen & subscribe: Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/OurHospiceSpotify Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/OurHospiceApplePodcast YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/OurHospiceYoutubeChannel If this episode helps, please share it with a friend or caregiver who may need it. We’re here to make every moment count—together. 💜

Hosted by Steph Cain — President of Our Hospice of South Central Indiana, this inspiring conversation with community leader and philanthropist Sherry Stark explores how small acts of service grow into a lifetime of impact. Sherry shares the family values that shaped her giving, the transformational gift honoring her parents that helped advance palliative care, and a fearless “off-the-diving-board” moment that changed her path. Guided by Steph’s thoughtful questions, you’ll learn practical ways to start serving today—and how generosity, curiosity, and community help families make every moment count across South Central Indiana. Listen here: Spotify: tinyurl.com/OurHospiceSpotify Apple Podcasts: tinyurl.com/OurHospiceApplePodcast YouTube: Https://youtu.be/VoMBOcGNmyE

In this Better Together episode, host Steph Cain sits down with Sarah Stephens, LCSW and Manager of Support Services at Our Hospice of South Central Indiana, to talk candidly about caregiving—the hardest job many of us will ever do, emotionally and physically. Sarah shares how her team of social workers, chaplains, and bereavement counselors surrounds families with education, safe space, and practical tools, so caregivers feel less alone and more confident throughout the hospice journey

In this heartfelt episode of the Better Together Podcast, host and President Steph Cain sits down with retired Air Force Major General Mark Pillar to share the meaning and impact of Our Hospice’s We Honor Veterans program. General Pillar walks us through a typical pinning ceremony—from coordinating with families to reading a tribute poem, presenting a custom plaque crafted by local C4 students, and offering a final salute. Along the way, he reflects on powerful moments: veterans opening up with stories their families had never heard, a light-hearted exchange with a WWII WAC, and a note from a family who saw their loved one smile one last time after a ceremony—“a priceless memory.” Whether you’re a veteran, a caregiver, or a community member, you’ll hear why this volunteer-led program restores dignity, sparks connection, and creates lasting comfort for families across South Central Indiana. Interested in serving alongside us? Learn more at OurHospice.org and follow Our Hospice on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.

In this Better Together episode, host Steph Cain sits down with Our Hospice chaplain Mark Phillips to unpack what spiritual care really looks like in hospice—and why it’s far more than “last rites.” Mark shares how chaplains support the whole person (body, emotions, and spirit) by first listening deeply, meeting people where they are, and creating space for honest talk about beliefs, doubts, and what matters most at the end of life. Mark describes common misconceptions (“chaplain = final prayer”) and explains how the role is about presence, conversation, music, and story-gathering that families can keep. He also reflects on a veteran whose son heard treasured stories for the first time—an unexpected gift of chaplaincy. You’ll hear how “hopes and worries” conversations open doors for gentle advance-care planning, and how chaplains support caregivers through anticipatory grief while also caring for our clinical team. Learn more or ask a question at OurHospice.org or call 812-314-8083. We’re here to make every moment count.

On Episode 5 of the Better Together Podcast by Our Hospice, host Steph Cain talks with Julie Davis about her journey into Our Hospice’s Personal Care service—a program dedicated to supporting patients and families with the everyday help they need at home. Julie shares how this service provides not just practical assistance, but also comfort, dignity, and peace of mind for those facing daily challenges. Discover how “Helping to support your daily living needs at home” is more than a tagline—it’s the heart of Personal Care at Our Hospice. To learn more about Our Hospice and the services we provide, visit OurHospice.org. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts to stay connected and hear more stories that inspire and support our community. Facebook: https://tinyurl.com/OurHospiceFacebook Instagram: https://tinyurl.com/OurHospiceInstagram Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/OurHospiceYoutubeChannel Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/OurHospiceSpotify Apple Podcast: https://tinyurl.com/OurHospiceApplePodcast

In this episode of Better Together, Our Hospice Medical Director Dr. Leigh Anderson joins host Steph Caine to discuss how hospice teams proactively manage pain and symptoms to ensure comfort and dignity at the end of life. Dr. Anderson explains the importance of being proactive with care, the use of “comfort kits” to support families in the middle of the night, and how equipment and medication adjustments can make daily life easier. He also addresses common concerns about reducing medications and the safe use of opioids in hospice. Through the story of a patient whose quality of life transformed with the right support, Dr. Anderson highlights the true purpose of hospice: focusing on what matters most to each patient and their family. Whether it’s managing shortness of breath, calming agitation, or offering emotional and spiritual support, this conversation shows how hospice care is about more than medicine—it’s about making every moment count

In this episode of Better Together, host Steph Cain sits down with nurse practitioner Donna Butler to explore the true meaning of palliative care. Donna shares her journey from home health and cancer care into palliative medicine, clarifying the difference between hospice and palliative care while highlighting the unique role her team plays in supporting patients and families. Listeners will hear a powerful patient story that illustrates how palliative care restores dignity, relieves symptoms, and helps families navigate tough decisions with compassion. From collaborating with oncologists to providing emotional, spiritual, and social support, Donna explains how her team “meets people where they are” — making every moment count for more than 250 patients and families across South Central Indiana

In this powerful follow-up episode of Better Together, host Steph Cain, President of Our Hospice, sits down again with Dr. Lee Anderson, Medical Director at Our Hospice, to tackle one of the most tender and difficult questions families face: How do you talk to a loved one about hospice care? Together, they unpack real-world strategies for starting these emotional conversations with clarity, empathy, and respect. You’ll learn how to assess understanding across family members, explore your loved one’s hopes and worries, and gently guide the conversation with phrases that build trust—not fear. Dr. Anderson shares insights from VitalTalk training and introduces the “NURSE” framework—practical tools for expressing empathy in moments of uncertainty. This episode is a must-listen for caregivers, healthcare providers, and anyone navigating end-of-life conversations with loved ones. Because talking about hospice isn’t giving up—it’s changing the goal. 📘 Explore tools for compassionate communication: https://www.vitaltalk.org Nurse PDF https://tinyurl.com/42w5w9yr ☎️ To learn more or connect with Our Hospice, visit ourhospice.org or call 812-314-8000.

Is hospice really about giving up—or is it about living fully when it matters most? In this powerful first episode of Better Together, host Steph Cain, the president of Our Hospice, sits down with Dr. Leigh Anderson, Medical Director of Our Hospice of South Central Indiana, to explore what hospice care really is — and what it isn’t. You’ll learn: Why hospice is a compassionate choice, not a surrender How interdisciplinary teams bring whole-person support—body, mind, and spirit What it means to qualify for hospice and how it actually improves quality of life How families can shift from guilt to grace in caregiving If you’ve ever feared the word “hospice,” this conversation will change your perspective. Hospice Center Tour Youtube Video: https://youtu.be/lSeDb-TGDmw?si=U4n57xHIgyRt8vwK 📞 Learn more: OurHospice.org | (812) 314-8083 Because when it matters most — we’re better together.