Mind What Matters

This week on Mind What Matters, Elizabeth Humphreys and Nikki DeLoach have a deeply personal and urgent conversation about why caregiving can no longer be treated as an individual family issue, because it has become a national crisis. Drawing from their own experiences caring for loved ones, Liz and Nikki talk honestly about the financial devastation, emotional isolation, burnout, and impossible decisions so many caregivers are facing behind closed doors every single day. They also open up about why they believe policy, legislation, and community action have to become part of the caregiving conversation moving forward.From navigating dementia care and healthcare systems to advocating for families who feel unseen and unsupported, this episode is both deeply emotional and incredibly practical. It’s a conversation about why caregivers need more than awareness, they need action, resources, and a system that actually works.Liz and Nikki also share why they are encouraging families to start speaking up, sharing their stories, and asking harder questions about what support for caregivers should really look like in this country.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

This week on Mind What Matters, Elizabeth Humphreys and Nikki DeLoach sit down with journalist and author Leland Vittert for a powerful conversation about a different kind of caregiving, the kind that shapes a child’s entire life.Leland shares the story behind his book Born Lucky, opening up for the first time about growing up with an autism diagnosis that was never discussed, the challenges he faced in school, and the role his father played in helping him navigate a world that didn’t always understand him.Together, they explore what it looks like to raise a child through adversity, not by removing the hard things, but by walking alongside them through it. From resilience and discipline to unconditional love and long-term impact, this conversation offers a deeply personal look at how caregiving in childhood can shape who someone becomes.Liz and Nikki also reflect on their own experiences as parents, the emotional weight of raising children through challenges, and the balance between protecting your child and preparing them for the world.This episode is a reminder that even when it doesn’t feel like it in the moment, the love, effort, and consistency caregivers pour into their children can have a lasting and life-changing impact.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

This week on Mind What Matters, Elizabeth Humphreys and Nikki DeLoach continue their conversation with senior living expert Christen Bergeron, this time digging into one of the hardest and most overwhelming parts of caregiving: the cost.With over 25 years of experience in senior living, Christen helps families understand what care can actually look like financially, from assisted living and memory care to in-home support. They talk about the realities many families are shocked to discover in real time: Medicare does not pay for long-term care, Medicaid has limits and requirements, and the monthly cost of support can quickly become impossible without a plan.Liz, Nikki, and Christen also discuss the emotional weight of these decisions, especially when families are already exhausted, scared, and trying to do the right thing. From power of attorney and legal documents to researching care options before you need them, this episode is a practical and compassionate reminder that planning ahead is one of the greatest gifts we can give our future selves and the people we love.Check out the "Free Guide to Navigate Senior Living" here:https://www.navigatingseniorliving.co/questionsguideTo learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website.Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTubeTo learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

This week on Mind What Matters, Elizabeth Humphreys and Nikki DeLoach are back together with Neal K. Shah to continue a conversation that’s bigger than any one family’s experience.After unpacking the personal realities of caregiving, this episode turns toward what comes next, how we begin to fix a system that isn’t working for the millions of families navigating it every day.Together, they dive into the larger forces shaping caregiving today, from government policy and funding gaps to the growing need for innovation in how care is delivered. Neal shares his perspective on where the system is falling short, why families are often left without real options, and what it would take to create meaningful, lasting change.Liz and Nikki bring their own lived experience into the conversation, reflecting on the emotional, financial, and logistical weight caregivers carry and why advocacy, awareness, and collective action matter now more than ever.This episode is both a continuation and a shift forward, offering not just validation for what caregivers are going through, but a clearer picture of where the conversation needs to go next.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

This week on Mind What Matters, Elizabeth Humphreys sits down with entrepreneur and caregiver Neal K. Shah to talk about the reality so many families are facing: a caregiving system that is overwhelming, expensive, and often impossible to navigate.After becoming a caregiver for both his grandfather with Alzheimer’s and later his wife during a serious illness, Neal saw firsthand how broken the system truly is. What started as a deeply personal experience turned into a mission to rethink how care is delivered, accessed, and supported.Together, Liz and Neal unpack what’s not working, from the high cost of in-home care and caregiver burnout to the lack of meaningful support for families doing this work every day. They also talk about the emotional toll caregiving takes, the ripple effects on careers and families, and why so many people feel like they’re figuring it out alone.Neal shares how his company, CareYaya, is approaching caregiving differently, connecting families with healthcare students to provide more affordable, reliable in-home support, and why innovation may be one of the only ways forward.This conversation is both eye-opening and validating for anyone navigating caregiving, offering perspective on a system that needs to change, and the people working to change it.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

This week on Mind What Matters, Elizabeth Humphreys sits down with senior living expert Christen Bergeron to talk about what so many families wish they had understood before finding themselves in the middle of a caregiving crisis.With over 25 years of experience in the senior living space, Christen shares what actually happens when a parent is no longer safe at home, and why so many families are left trying to figure it out in real time, often without clear guidance or enough information.Together, Liz and Christen walk through the decisions that come up quickly and unexpectedly, from hospital stays and next steps to understanding the different levels of care available. They also talk about the emotional side of it all: the pressure, the second-guessing, and the reality that there often isn’t one perfect answer.This conversation is both practical and reassuring, offering a clearer path forward for anyone navigating aging parents, dementia, or long-term care decisions, especially if you’re trying to get ahead of it before a crisis forces your hand.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

This week on Mind What Matters, Elizabeth Humphreys sits down with clinical neuropsychologist Dr. Sarah Richie to explore a form of caregiving that often goes unseen, raising and supporting children with neurodevelopmental differences.From autism and ADHD to dyslexia and executive function challenges, Dr. Richie shares what families are really navigating behind the scenes: the emotional intensity, the behavioral complexity, and the constant effort required to support a child whose brain works differently.Together, Liz and Dr. Richie talk about the fear that often comes with early signs and diagnoses, the pressure parents feel to “get it right,” and the reality that many of these challenges don’t just impact a child, they reshape the entire family dynamic.They also explore the overlap between caregiving for children and caring for aging parents, and how many families today are navigating both at the same time, creating a level of emotional and logistical demand that can feel impossible to sustain.This conversation is honest, validating, and deeply informative, offering clarity for families who may feel overwhelmed, uncertain, or alone in what they’re experiencing.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

This week on Mind What Matters, Elizabeth Humphreys reaches into the archives for a powerful conversation with ultra endurance athlete Travis Macy, host of The Travis Macy Show, and his father, Mark "Mace" Macy.Known for competing in some of the world’s toughest races, including Eco-Challenge and the Leadville 100, Travis and Mark share what it looks like to pursue extreme physical challenges while also navigating life with Alzheimer’s.Mark opens up about his diagnosis and his decision to keep showing up, continuing to train, race, and live fully despite the uncertainty of the disease. Together, he and Travis reflect on what endurance sports have taught them about resilience, mindset, and facing challenges that don’t come with a clear roadmap.The conversation also explores the parallels between endurance racing and caregiving: the setbacks, the unpredictability, and the importance of staying engaged, finding your people, and moving forward even when things feel impossible.Grounded, honest, and deeply motivating, this episode is a reminder that strength isn’t just physical, it’s found in how we show up for ourselves and for the people we love.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

This week on Mind What Matters, Elizabeth Humphreys revisits a powerful conversation from the archives with Edward O’Day, whose family faced the devastating impact of Alzheimer’s disease soon after losing his father to brain cancer.Edward shares the deeply personal story of navigating his mother’s early-onset Alzheimer’s diagnosis, the difficult safety decisions that followed, and the emotional weight of becoming the person responsible for protecting a parent’s dignity while watching the disease unfold.From recognizing the earliest warning signs to making the painful decision to move his mother into memory care, Edward reflects on the realities many families face but rarely talk about openly: isolation, guilt, family tension, and the constant second-guessing that comes with caregiving.Along the way, he also shares how his experience ultimately led him toward advocacy, determined to help improve care and support for families navigating dementia.This conversation is an honest look at what Alzheimer’s caregiving asks of families, the strength it demands, and the compassion that can grow from even the most difficult experiences.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Caregiving doesn’t end when placement happens, it simply changes shape.In this episode of Mind What Matters, Elizabeth Humphreys sits down with registered dietitian and cognitive health advocate Barbie Boules for a open, wide-ranging conversation about what happens after a parent with Alzheimer’s transitions into memory care. Barbie shares her personal experience as a primary caregiver, the safety concerns that led to placement, and the unexpected emotional realities that followed, including the absence of the “relief” many assume will come.From wandering and hospice conversations to family dynamics and lingering guilt, this discussion captures the layered complexity of long-term caregiving.The conversation then pivots into Barbie’s professional expertise: cognitive fitness, midlife brain health, and the growing confusion around GLP-1 medications, compounded peptides, and influencer-driven wellness trends. Barbie offers grounded, evidence-based clarity on what these medications are designed to treat, where misuse is happening, and why women in midlife are especially vulnerable to quick-fix health promises.Thoughtful, nuanced, and refreshingly honest, this episode bridges lived experience with science, and reminds us that informed decisions matter, especially when it comes to our brains.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

This week on Mind What Matters, Liz Humphreys reaches into the archives to revisit a conversation that still feels as relevant and raw as the day it was recorded.Liz sits down with author and caregiver Lauren Dykovitrz to talk about early-onset Alzheimer’s, the shock of diagnosis in your 20s, and the complicated emotional terrain that follows. Lauren was just 25 when her mother was diagnosed, and she shares what it felt like to face a disease that offered no clear next steps. No surgery to schedule, no treatment to start, just the heavy realization that life would never look the same again.Together, they talk about misdiagnosis, denial within families, embarrassment and isolation in the early years, and the immense guilt caregivers carry, even when they are doing everything they possibly can. Lauren opens up about becoming her mother’s caregiver, reaching burnout, hiring outside help, and the painful but necessary shift from trying to fix the disease to learning to meet her mom where she was.They also explore the grief that exists long before a loved one passes away and the second wave of grief that comes after.This conversation is honest, vulnerable, and deeply relatable for anyone navigating Alzheimer’s, dementia, or long-term caregiving. If you’ve ever felt lost, impatient, ashamed, or unsure whether you’re “doing enough,” this episode reminds you that you’re not alone.Learn more about Lauren and her work here. To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

This week on Mind What Matters, Elizabeth Humphreys and Nikki DeLoach sit down with gerontologist and licensed clinical social worker Ashley Stevens, founder of The Dementia Guru, for a grounded and empowering conversation about what families truly need after a dementia diagnosis.Ashley shares how her own childhood experience with Alzheimer’s shaped her life’s work, and how she now supports caregivers navigating burnout, stigma, and complex family dynamics. Together, Liz, Nikki, and Ashley explore what happens in the early days after diagnosis, why caregiving cannot be done alone, and how to realistically divide responsibilities within families.They also talk about therapy, respite care, advocacy, and the urgent need to reduce the stigma surrounding dementia and aging. This conversation is both deeply personal and deeply practical.For anyone supporting a loved one with Alzheimer’s, dementia, or another neurodegenerative illness, this episode offers clarity, validation, and actionable insight.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

This week on Mind What Matters, Elizabeth Humphreys and Nikki DeLoach reflect on what happens when caregiving moves beyond the home and into memory care or assisted living, and how that transition can bring an entirely new layer of responsibility, grief, and vigilance.They speak openly about the emotional complexity of placement, the mix of relief and guilt that can coexist, and the realities families may encounter inside systems that are often stretched thin. Together, Liz and Nikki explore advocacy, trust, and the courage it takes to stay engaged when exhaustion would be easier.This conversation is not about fear, it’s about awareness. It’s about learning how to ask better questions, how to protect your loved one without losing yourself, and how caregiving continues to evolve even after the setting changes.For anyone navigating Alzheimer’s, FTD, Lewy Body Dementia, or another form of cognitive decline, this episode offers hard-earned wisdom, clarity, and the reminder that your presence still matters.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

In this episode of Mind What Matters, Elizabeth Humphreys and Nikki DeLoach reflect on caregiving, advocacy, and the moments that force us to find our voice, even when it feels uncomfortable or risky.Nikki shares her experience navigating simultaneous medical crises involving her father and her infant son, Bennett, and what it taught her about intuition, persistence, and advocating inside a complex healthcare system. Together, Liz and Nikki talk about the difference between being “nice” and being effective, why trusting your gut matters, and how trauma reshapes the way we show up for others.They also explore the importance of community, personal responsibility, and learning how to stay grounded in moments of fear and uncertainty. This conversation is a reminder that speaking up isn’t about control, it’s about care, courage, and showing up when it matters most.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

In this episode of Mind What Matters, Elizabeth Humphreys and Nikki DeLoach continue their deeply personal conversation about caregiving, shifting from naming the pain to sharing the hard-earned tools that helped Elizabeth survive thirteen years of caring for her mother with Alzheimer’s.Elizabeth opens up about burnout, family tension, and the emotional weight of being the one who carries the day-to-day reality of decline. Together, she and Nikki talk honestly about what actually helps caregivers, from learning when not to correct or argue, to understanding anxiety-driven behaviors, to setting boundaries without shame.This conversation explores family dynamics, asking for help, recovery work, and the moment caregiving forces you to trust yourself even when others disagree. For anyone in the thick of caregiving, or still processing the aftermath, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and reassurance that you’re not failing...you’re learning.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Welcome back to Mind What Matters! In this episode of Elizabeth Humphreys and Nikki DeLoach turn the microphones inward to explore the raw, unfiltered realities of caregiving, grief, and the long emotional arc of loving someone with Alzheimer’s. To kick off the new year, the two friends treat each other as guests asking the hard questions about what caregiving really costs, how grief evolves over time, and what healing looks like after years of living in survival mode.Elizabeth shares her thirteen-year journey caring for her mother, from the earliest gut instincts that something was wrong to the exhaustion, burnout, guilt, and grace that marked every stage of the disease. Together, she and Nikki unpack the “death by a thousand paper cuts” that caregivers experience, the shame we place on ourselves for not doing it perfectly, and why allowing grief to do its work, rather than resisting it, can be profoundly transformative.This episode is an honest reminder that caregiving changes you, grief is not linear, and healing happens in small, daily acts of self-forgiveness. For anyone walking alongside a loved who requires care, or carrying the aftermath of that journey, this conversation offers validation, wisdom, and the reassurance that whatever you’re feeling, it’s all okay.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission, visit our website.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website.Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTubeTo learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

This week on Mind What Matters we are sharing a crossover episode from the Travis Macy Show. Liz Humphreys and Travis Macy, host of The Travis Macy Show, talk with Dr. Dani Cabral, founder of BrainLove. They explore the science and stories of brain health, offering hope and practical wisdom for nurturing our minds at any life stage.Dr. Cabral shares how her unique approach, blending functional medicine, neurology, and lifestyle design, has helped people facing Alzheimer’s, dementia, and cognitive decline regain clarity, energy, and a renewed sense of self. Together, they dive into the pillars of brain health, from nourishing our bodies and calming inflammation to the power of sleep, mindset, and living with purpose.Through stories from her practice and practical steps anyone can take, Dr. Cabral reminds us that caring for our brains is about so much more than preventing decline. It’s about living fully, deepening our connections, and showing up for the people who matter most.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

On this episode of Mind What Matters Liz and Nikki sit down with acclaimed actor and advocate Sharon Lawrence to talk about caregiving, compassion, and the beauty that exists within life’s hardest goodbyes.Sharon opens up about her journey caring for her in-laws through cancer and end-of-life, reflecting on what it means to stand beside someone not as a fixer, but as a witness. Through powerful stories of love, loss, and learning, she shares the lessons that caregiving taught her about presence, humility, and grace.From nights spent at hospital bedsides to the healing power of music and the importance of honoring our elders, Sharon reminds us that caregiving is not just about tending to another’s needs it’s an act of devotion that changes us at our core. To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

This week Liz Humphreys and Nikki DeLoach sit down with Aimee Parker, intuitive guide and Human Design reader, to explore what it truly means to live in alignment with who you are beneath all the “shoulds” and expectations.Aimee introduces listeners to Human Design, a system that blends ancient wisdom and modern science to help us understand how we’re energetically wired to move through the world. Together, they unpack how this framework can become a powerful tool for self-remembrance, decision-making, and healing from the conditioning and trauma that often disconnect us from our authentic selves.From navigating motherhood, caregiving, and burnout to setting boundaries and learning to say no, this conversation offers practical insights for anyone ready to slow down, trust their intuition, and honor their natural rhythm. As Nikki shares her own experiences using Human Design to manage her “yes-person” tendencies, the trio reminds us that self-awareness isn’t about fixing ourselves it’s about remembering who we’ve been all along.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

In this episode of Mind What Matters, Elizabeth Humphreys sits down with Dr. Eleonora Teplinsky, board-certified oncologist and host of the Interlude Podcast, to unpack what it really means for women to take ownership of their health, physically, mentally, and emotionally.Drawing from her experience treating women with breast and gynecologic cancers, Dr. Teplinsky shares why so many women are misinformed or simply left out of conversations around prevention, hormones, perimenopause, and longevity. She and the hosts dive deep into the intersection of science, culture, and self-worth, exploring how societal expectations have shaped women’s relationships with their bodies and health decisions.Together, they tackle topics like hormone therapy myths, the emotional toll of “doing it all,” and why being proactive about your well-being is the most radical act of self-care. With honesty and compassion, Dr. Teplinsky offers practical, empowering insights for every woman ready to move from surviving to truly thriving.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

In this episode of Mind What Matters, Elizabeth Humphreys and Nikki DeLoach sit down with health and wellness coach Pamelyn Rocco to cut through the noise of fitness fads and conflicting nutrition advice. Pamelyn, founder of House of Health, has helped thousands of women transform not just their bodies, but their mindset, energy, and confidence. They explore what it really takes for women, especially in their 40s and beyond, to feel strong and vibrant. From the importance of resistance training and proper protein intake to balancing hormones, gut health, and mindset, Pamelyn shares her personal journey of hitting a wall in her early 40s—and how it led her to create a program that empowers women to thrive for decades to come.This conversation goes beyond aesthetics. It’s about reclaiming your health, building muscle as the true “organ of longevity,” and making yourself a priority without guilt. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the wellness industry or unsure how to care for your body as it changes, this episode is your permission slip to step into strength, energy, and freedom.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

In this episode of Mind What Matters, Elizabeth Humphreys and Nikki DeLoach sit down with Sandra Abrevaya—caregiver, advocate, and co-founder of I AM ALS and Synapticure. Sandra opens up about her husband Brian’s eight-year journey with ALS, the waves of grief and resilience that come with prolonged caregiving, and the fight to hold on to light in the darkest seasons.Together, they explore the realities of raising two young children while navigating a terminal illness, the toll of extended caregiving on identity and mental health, and how Sandra has turned pain into purpose through service and advocacy. From forcing herself to rise off the “bathroom floor moments” to creating accessible virtual care for families across the country, Sandra shares her story with raw honesty and courage.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

What happens when you’re the only one left to care for everyone else? In this episode of Mind What Matters, Jillian Reeves joins Elizabeth Humphreys and Nikki DeLoach to share her personal story of caregiving for her mother and brother, while facing unimaginable grief and responsibility on her own.Jillian opens up about caring for her mother, who battled lupus, cancer, and dementia, and her brother, who struggled with mental illness and endured trauma in a care facility. She describes the emotional and logistical toll of solo caregiving, the need for respite and advocacy, and the heartbreak of losing both her husband and brother in the span of her caregiving journey. Through it all, Jillian has found ways to support others, creating resources like caregiver affirmation cards and journals to help ease the path for others walking this difficult road.This conversation is a raw and honest look at the weight of caregiving, and the radical strength it takes to show up with love, every single day.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

What started as a single soak in Italy changed everything. In this episode, Elizabeth Humphreys and Nikki DeLoach sit down with Greg Macdonald, founder of Bathorium, to talk about his journey from bartender to wellness entrepreneur—and how one bath sparked a mission to redefine self-care.Greg shares how Bathorium's pH-balanced, mineral-rich bath soaks became a wellness staple for people around the world, including caregivers like Nikki, who uses her daily bath ritual to reset and reconnect. The conversation dives into the science of bathing, the importance of magnesium for stress relief, and why intentional, nourishing self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a lifeline. They also explore how ethical business practices and community support can create ripples of impact far beyond the bath.If you’re looking for a reason to slow down, breathe deep, and reclaim rest, this episode will inspire you to turn your bathroom into a sanctuary—one soak at a time.Learn more here: instagram.com/livebathoriumTo learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

When Rachel Loeb’s father was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s at 58, she became a caregiver overnight—and realized just how little support existed for young people in her shoes. In this powerful conversation, Rachel joins hosts Elizabeth Humphreys and Nikki DeLoach to talk about her book The Millennial Caregiver, the gaps in our healthcare system, and the emotional realities of caregiving in your 30s.Together, they discuss the emotional and logistical weight of caregiving, the often dismissive attitude of the medical system, and the real need for empathy, better resources, and community. This is a powerful conversation about how caregiving reshapes identity, family dynamics, and what it means to show up with love—especially when the world isn’t quite ready to meet you there. Whether you’re a millennial caregiver or someone walking alongside one, this episode offers insight, compassion, and solidarity.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

In this episode, Elizabeth Humphreys and Nikki DeLoach get real about what it means to find joy when life feels impossibly hard. Through stories of caregiving, grief, and growth, they explore how tiny acts of self-care, moments of gratitude, and choosing connection can be powerful tools for healing. Nikki shares how a quote from Toni Cade Bambara—“The job of the artist is to make the revolution irresistible”—transformed her outlook and helped her rediscover the beauty in small wins.Together, Elizabeth and Nikki reflect on the emotional toll of caregiving, the power of community, and how joy can be an act of resistance when everything feels like too much. This conversation is an invitation to be present, be honest, and start your own quiet revolution—one small, meaningful step at a time.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

What do you do when the world feels like it’s burning—literally and figuratively? Nikki DeLoach shares her personal experience living through the devastating wildfires in LA County, from rallying community support for firefighters to helping friends pack up their lives in minutes. She opens up about parenting through crisis, witnessing her son confront fear, and how trauma often mirrors the grief of losing a loved one.Elizabeth Humphreys joins from Tennessee, offering insight as both a fellow caregiver and close friend walking alongside Nikki through this difficult time. Together, they explore what it means to be present in the chaos, why mental health support is essential in the wake of collective trauma, and how community—and honesty—can carry us through. It’s a heartfelt reminder that healing starts with telling the truth about what hurts.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia is an emotional and often isolating journey. In this heartfelt episode Elizabeth Humphreys and Nikki DeLoach get personal about their own caregiving experiences—what they’ve learned, what they wish they’d known sooner, and how they’ve found strength through connection.Nikki opens up about her grandfather’s battle with vascular dementia and the challenges of navigating care in a small town with limited resources. Elizabeth shares her mother’s journey with Alzheimer’s, reflecting on the emotional toll and the isolation she felt as a young caregiver. Together, they discuss the importance of early recognition, therapy, and having a strong support system—because the reality is, one in three people will be affected by Alzheimer’s.They don’t sugarcoat the struggles, but they do offer hope: self-compassion, self-discovery, and the value of presence can help caregivers find moments of grace in the hardest seasons. Whether you’re in the thick of caregiving or preparing for what’s ahead, this conversation is a reminder that you’re not alone.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

What if you could lower your risk of Alzheimer’s by nearly half—just by changing what’s on your plate? In this episode, Elizabeth Humphreys and Nikki DeLoach sit down with Dr. Tom Holland, a physician-scientist at Rush University Medical Center and a board member of Mind What Matters, to discuss the groundbreaking research behind the MIND diet (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay).Dr. Holland breaks down findings from the Lancet Commission, which reports that up to 44% of Alzheimer’s and dementia cases could be prevented through lifestyle and diet modifications. He explains how small, intentional shifts—like eating more dark leafy greens, berries, and whole foods while limiting red meat and fried foods—can have a profound impact on brain health. He also explores the role of inflammation in cognitive decline, the importance of staying mentally and physically active, and strategies for making brain-healthy choices even in food deserts.With science-backed insights and practical advice, this conversation will inspire you to take charge of your brain health—because prevention starts now.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Death is one of life’s only certainties, yet so many of us avoid talking about it—until we have no choice. In this episode, Elizabeth Humphreys and Nikki DeLoach sit down with Julie McFadden, an ICU and hospice nurse known as @hospicenursejulie, to break down the fears and misconceptions surrounding end-of-life care. With wisdom and compassion, Julie shares insights from her book Nothing to Fear, offering guidance on preparing for end-of-life experiences and navigating the emotional weight of caregiving, especially for those caring for loved ones with Alzheimer's and dementia.Julie discusses why open conversations about death matter, how hospice care provides comfort and dignity, and why making advanced healthcare decisions now can ease the burden on families later. Nikki also opens up about anticipatory grief and the importance of cherishing small moments. This powerful conversation will leave you feeling more prepared, more present, and less afraid.Julie McFadden Website | Instagram  | YouTube | FacebookTo learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Barbie Boules is not just another nutritionist on Instagram—she’s a seasoned expert with over 20 years of experience in women’s metabolic and brain health. In this episode, Barbie joins Elizabeth Humphreys and Nikki DeLoach to share her insights into the powerful connection between the two. She also brings a raw and compassionate perspective from her personal experience as a caregiver for her mother, who has Alzheimer’s.Barbie emphasizes the importance of quality sleep, balanced nutrition, daily movement, and stress management for healthy aging—especially for women over 40. She talks about how to recognize early signs of Alzheimer’s and why seeking help early is crucial. Barbie also challenges harmful diet culture, advocating instead for building muscle and aging gracefully.With her wisdom, compassion, and practical advice, Barbie offers valuable tips for women who want to prioritize their health, mental wellbeing, and longevity. Follow her on Instagram @the_cognition_dietitian.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

There are countless misunderstood health challenges that women face in their 30s and 40s, but how lasting is the impact? In part two of this empowering conversation with renowned women's health expert Dr. Sharon Malone, the team dives deep into struggles like endometriosis and the complexities of perimenopause. Dr. Malone shares invaluable insights, while Nikki and Elizabeth open up about their personal experiences and frustrations with the medical system. Together, they advocate for better care and more research into women’s health.This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking practical advice on taking charge of their health and for those passionate about empowering women to be their own best health advocates. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the unique hurdles women face and how we can continue to fight for better care at every stage of life.Follow Dr. Malone on Instagram @smalonemd.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Actress, author, and advocate Kimberly Williams-Paisley's heart for giving back is as big as her impact on the world. You may know Kimberly from iconic roles in Father of the Bride, According to Jim, and The Christmas Chronicles, but her true legacy shines through her tireless philanthropic work. As co-founder of The Store with her husband Brad Paisley, Kimberly has worked to provide comprehensive solutions to hunger and poverty in Middle Tennessee, offering support to families in need.Kimberly sits down with us to share the profound journey of caring for her mother, Linda, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease at just 62. Her book "Where the Light Gets In" captures the emotional story of their family’s experience, and the transformative power of love, forgiveness, and resilience. Kimberly also opens up about her own health crisis, where she faced nerve damage that temporarily took her voice, but through surgery and determination, she found her strength again—now even deadlifting 115 pounds. This episode is an inspiring testament to the power of healing, advocacy, and finding light even in the darkest times.Kimberly Williams-Paisley InstagramRead Where the Light Gets InSupport The StoreTo learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

This week on Mind What Matters, we’re chatting with Dr. Eleonora Teplinsky, an oncologist who’s passionate about breast and gynecologic cancers. She’s here to break down some tough topics with us, like the rising rates of breast cancer in younger women, why early detection matters more than ever, and how treatment can impact more than just your body—it can affect your mind too.We get real about the challenges women face in advocating for their health, the lack of focus on women’s health research, and how making simple changes in our diets and lifestyles can make a big difference. Dr. Teplinsky also gives us hope by sharing the latest in clinical trials and what advancements are on the horizon for breast cancer treatment.This conversation is for anyone who’s been touched by breast cancer, or anyone who’s worried about what’s coming next. It’s a reminder that knowledge is power, and you don’t have to go through this alone. We’re here with you every step of the way.Connect with Dr. Eleonora Teplinsky Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTubeListen to the INTERLUDE Podcast: Women’s Cancer Stories with Dr. TeplinskyTo learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Today we’re talking about the real, raw stuff of life: the challenges we never see coming, and how we push through them. Celebrity personal trainer Gunnar Peterson and Dr. Philip Goglia share their powerful stories of resilience—especially Gunnar’s journey through his daughter’s leukemia battle. From the emotional weight of caring for a loved one to finding the balance between self-care and caregiving, this conversation hits home for anyone who’s been through hard times and come out stronger on the other side.Gunnar and Dr. Goglia remind us that, while we can’t control life’s curveballs, we can control how we face them. The key? Consistent small steps, whether it’s taking care of your body, showing up for your family, or finding the strength to move forward, even when it feels impossible. This episode is a heartfelt, honest conversation about the importance of showing up for yourself—because you can’t pour from an empty cup. Tune in for a dose of real talk, encouragement, and hope.Gunnar Peterson Website | Instagram | YouTubeDr. Philip Goglia Instagram To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Vanessa is a therapist, a podcaster herself, an author (The Toolbox), workshop leader, public speaker and most importantly, an incredible human. She believes wisdom comes from wounds and that the darkest nights of the soul can produce stunning clarity. She also believes that human beings are capable of healing. In this episode we dive head first into some of the biggest aspects of mental health. It was an incredible conversation and we hope you enjoy it as much as we did!To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Please join us for this highly insightful and encouraging episode where we talk with Dr. Sharon Malone.  Dr. Sharon Malone is a DC-based OB/GYN and Certified Menopause Practitioner on a mission to empower women to take charge of their health. Dr. Sharon Malone is a nationally known expert in women’s health and the New York Times Bestselling author of Grown Woman Talk. She is the Chief Medical Advisor at Alloy Women’s Health, a telehealth company that focuses on women over 40. Before joining Alloy, Dr. Malone was a partner at one of the oldest and most successful OB/GYN medical practices in Washington, D.C. She is board-certified by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and certified by the North American Menopause Society as a Certified National Menopause Practitioner. Throughout her professional career, she has been active in advocating for reproductive rights, reducing teen pregnancy, and eliminating health care disparities. Dr. Malone has been honored with the Health Award from the Black Women's Agenda, Inc., and was named on the 2024 Forbes 50 over 50 list.Dr. Malone is the youngest of eight children. During World War II, her parents, both of whom were raised in the rural South, moved to Mobile, Alabama, during the migration from farms to cities. She has seen health care from both sides—as a physician and a child of parents who negotiated health care for themselves and their families in the Jim Crow South. Despite living next door to two hospitals, preventative health care was never a part of her family’s life. As a result, Dr. Malone’s mother would lose her life to colon cancer, diagnosed too late for treatment. This searing life experience has informed how Dr. Malone has chosen to practice medicine and brought focus to the healthcare issues she has chosen to pursue.In addition to her interest in women’s health, Dr. Malone is an avid reader, an amateur genealogist, and a lover of music. She is married to former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder Jr. and lives in Washington, D.C.  You can purchase her incredible new book, Grown Women Talk on Amazon!To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Welcome back to Mind What Matters. Today we are talking with Dr. Elizabeth Comen, an award winning medical oncologist who specializes in breast cancer. Dr. Comen is an internationally sought-after clinician and physician-scientist. She received her BA in History of Science from Harvard and her MD from Harvard Medical School. Dr. Comen is also the author of "Its all in her head", a book that is in and of itself a masterclass in the history of women's health. She brings hope, vulnerability and truth to women everywhere and has dedicated her medical career to saving women's lives. She is honest and raw and this episode will help you learn how to care for yourself as strongly as you care for those around you.Link to her new bestselling book 'All In Her Head': https://www.amazon.com/All-Her-Head-Medicine-Matters/dp/0063293013/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.vx4XvrBjlqTPhV52xqCsFLxO8WuosOt7ATJVfhwifTgNW7G7PHR1JGNaKF3Pn2Dg_bq4xaGIrLlHRSxs2D6cKC1_26h51LdggF3fhIcLzgs.LGslKrI9JJPoBGrVqHklZApKa_B1qcfCct4gsjSAqI0&dib_tag=se&hvadid=714114699275&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9013186&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=b&hvrand=761322166608574163&hvtargid=kwd-2366058256475&hydadcr=22595_13531227&keywords=all+in+her+head+by+elizabeth+comen&qid=1729710340&sr=8-1To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Welcome back to Mind What Matters! This season we are joined by Mind What Matters board member, Nikki DeLoach as a co-host. Nikki is an actress, Alzheimer's advocate former caregiver herself. She is also the chair of the foundation board of trustees for LA Children's Hospital. This season we talk about ALL things caregiving! Whether you are a parent, a friend, a son or daughter or just want to take more agency over your own health; this is the season that will provide you with all the tools necessary to increase the quality of your life while you care for those around you. Join us for our first episode where we dive into why we chose to bring the podcast back, and what is in store for the season.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

“You Can Do ThiFighting Cancer and Standing for a Cause with Lara MacGregor At 30 years old and 7 months pregnant, @lara_macgregor was diagnosed with breast cancer. After being gifted headscarves accompanied by a note that said “You can do this” during her treatment, she founded @hopescarves, bringing hope and community to thousands of people. Then, after  7 years in remission, she was diagnosed again - this time with Stage IV Metastatic Breast Cancer. With her new reality, Lara had to redefine hope for herself and for her organization: to live life over cancer. To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

We sit down with Austin Perlmutter to discuss how toxic social media and mindless internet scrolling has become something that our brains have been hardwired to do. While it isn't currently coined "addiction" in our country, the ways that our brains are stimulated based on social media is directly correlated with dopamine rush. It very closely mimics addictive behavior. We have become trained to depend on it for stimulation. How can we break these trends and what can we do to offset the symptoms setting in across the U.S. such as anxiety and depression as a result of overuse?#alzheimers #caregivers #endalzheimers #dementia #alzheimersawareness #endalz #brainhealth #mindwhatmatters #caregiver #alzcaregivers #reneeharmon #itsgonnabealzrightTo learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Host Liz Humphreys sits down with author Lauren Dykovitz to talk about dealing with the frustration of caring for a family member with a memory disease like Alzheimer’s. Lauren’s book “When Only Love Remains” is out now. Get more info here: @lifeloveandalizheimersTo learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Dr. Renee Harmon is a doctor and speaker. She joins us to talk about her experience in caring for her husband Harvey who developed early onset Alzheimer's.  To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Today we talk with Dr. Ed Parks the founder of NeuroReserve, the company who makes the product Relevate which is a state of the art nutrition supplement for the brain designed to closed the gap between what you're eating and what your brain needs to be healthy. Edward S. Park, Ph.D., is the Founder and President of NeuroReserve. Ed has over15 years of experience in the research and development (R&D) ofbiopharmaceuticals, medical devices, and nutritional therapeutics. Mostimportantly, his father struggled with Parkinson’s disease and dementia for almosttwo decades before passing away. The impact this experience on his family, whichis similar to the experiences faced by so many others today, is the motivation forNeuroReserve.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Our children are being overprescribed medicine and the effects of all of these medications are not only dangerous but they are changing their brains.Learn more about ADHD and the harmful effects of the medication prescribed to treat it. To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Did you know there are healthy and delicious substitutes for your kitchen that will help your brain health? Dr. Annie Fenn is the founder of the Brain Health Kitchen and talks about which ingredients likely in your kitchen right now are unhealthy for your brain and with what to switch them.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Dr. Austin Perlmutter discusses his new book written with his father Dr. David Perlmutter called Brain Wash: Detox Your Mind for Clearer Thinking, Deeper Relationships, and Lasting Happiness.We talk about the “disconnection syndrome”, internet addiction, loss of empathy in the human race and how there is a drastic change in our brains ability to make good choices when we don’t live a healthy lifestyle.  We also discuss the impact stress plays in our brain, and how to make small changes in your daily life that help relieve it.Austin Perlmutter, M.D., is a board-certified internal medicine physician and New York Times bestselling author. He received his medical degree from the University of Miami and completed his internal medicine residency at Oregon Health and Science University in Portland Oregon. His focus is in helping others to improve decision-making and quality of life. He is also interested in methods of understanding and reducing burnout in the medical field. He is the co-author of Brain Wash. He writes for Psychology Today on his blog, The Modern Brain.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Doctor, Author, and Professor is just the beginning of how to describe Dr. Michael Goran and his incredible research, teaching and writing. Dr. Goran talks about the the link between sugar and Alzheimer's in the latest episode of Mind What Matters. Hosted by Elizabeth Humphreys.To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co. 

Join us as we talk about menopause and perimenopause and the potential role they play in the development of cognitive decline. We talk about how to ease the symptoms through healthy eating and exercise and if and when to see your doctor about hormone replacement. To learn more about Mind What Matters or to support our mission head to our website. Connect with us on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube-----------------Mind What Matters is produced by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.