PODCAST · religion
The Caretaker's Journey
by Carole Leathem
The Caretaker’s Journey Podcast is a faith-based podcast offering Christian caregiver support, biblical encouragement, and practical help for family caregivers. Hosted by Carole Leathem, each episode shares Scripture, prayer, and hope for those caring for aging parents, spouses, or loved ones with dementia, chronic illness, disability, or mental health challenges. Topics include caregiver burnout, grief, self-care, faith, and purpose. Find encouragement, strength, and reminders that even in your hardest seasons, you're not alone, God is present, and your caregiving journey matters.
Episodes
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Finding Joy in the Journey - Take Time to Brew the Coffee
Finding Joy Through the Gift of Presence | Finding Joy in the Journey Are you so busy taking care of everyone else that you've forgotten how to slow down and enjoy your own life? As caregivers, we're experts at multitasking. We juggle doctor's appointments, medications, family responsibilities…
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Finding Joy in the Journey - Learning to Dance in the Rain
Finding Joy in the Journey — Week 6: Learning to Dance in the RainFinding Joy Without Pretending Life Isn’t Hard What if you didn’t have to wait for life to get easier before you could experience joy? For caregivers and caretakers, life can feel like one long season of waiting...waiting for the...
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Finding Joy in the Journey - The Unexpected Gift Shop
Recognizing Gifts You Never Would Have Chosen Finding Joy in the Journey | The Caretaker’s Journey Podcast with Carole Leathem What if some of life's greatest gifts come wrapped in circumstances we never would have chosen? When you're caring for a loved one, it's easy to become overwhelmed by the...
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Finding Joy in the Journey - Right Outside the Window
Episode 4 — Finding Joy Right Outside the Window Learning to Notice the Ordinary Gifts We Almost Miss What if the joy you're searching for isn't somewhere in the future, but is already right in front of you? As a family caregiver, it can be easy to become so focused on appointments, medications,...
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Finding Joy in the Journey - When You're Juggling Too Much
Episode 3 — The Great Caregiver Circus When You’re Juggling Way Too Much Do you ever feel like caregiving has turned your life into a three-ring circus—and somehow you're expected to keep every ball in the air? Doctor's appointments. Medications. Meals. Work. Family. Bills. Phone calls.…
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Finding Joy in the Journey - Learning to Recognize the Season You're In
Episode 2: The Closet Full of Seasons Learning to Recognize the Season You’re Actually In What happens when the life you’re trying to live no longer fits the season you’re actually in? Just like a closet full of clothes from different seasons, we can hold onto old routines, expectations,...
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Finding Joy in the Journey - When Life Recalculates
When the GPS Recalculates: Finding Joy When Life Doesn’t Go According to Plan What do you do when life suddenly takes a detour you never expected? A diagnosis. A health crisis. A change in your caregiving journey. A move. A loss. A delayed dream. Sometimes we make plans for our lives only to hear...
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You're Not the Same Person Anymore: Finding Purpose Through Transformation
Summary: In this episode, Carole explores the profound process of transformation during seasons of change, grief, and caregiving. She shares biblical insights, personal stories, and practical encouragement to help listeners embrace growth and faith in difficult times. Topics: The difference…
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The In-Between Season - How to Trust God When You Don't Know What's Next
One of the hardest parts of change isn't what we're facing today...it's releasing what we thought life would be. Whether you're grieving a loss, adjusting to caregiving, facing retirement, or letting go of a dream that didn't happen, God invites us to trust Him with what we're surrendering. In…
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When Life Changes Overnight - Helping Caregivers with unexpected changes
Life changes. Caregiving begins. A diagnosis arrives. A loved one dies. A dream disappears. If you're struggling with unexpected life transitions, grief, caregiving challenges, or emotional overwhelm, you're not alone. In this episode, we'll explore how to let go of the life you expected and…
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Hope is Still Coming|Resurrection Still Comes
Easter reminds us of a powerful truth: The story is not over. In this final episode of the series, Carole shares encouragement for weary hearts, caregivers, and anyone walking through a difficult season. Even when life feels uncertain, God is still bringing life, hope, and restoration. In this...
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Hope is Still Coming|Hope that Arrives Differently
Palm Sunday reminds us that God’s plans don’t always unfold the way we expect. In this episode, Carole explores what it means to experience hope that arrives differently—and how to trust God when life doesn’t match our expectations. If you’ve ever felt disappointed, confused, or unsure about how...
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Hope is Still Coming|Trusting God in the In Between
Waiting seasons can feel long, quiet, and uncertain. In this episode, we explore what it means to trust God in the in-between—those moments when prayers feel unanswered and nothing seems to be changing. Carole shares encouragement for caregivers and anyone navigating a season of waiting…
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Hope is Still Coming|Letting Go of What Was
In this episode of Hope Is Still Coming, we step into one of the most tender parts of the journey—letting go of what was. Caregiving and difficult seasons often bring unexpected change, and with that change comes a quiet kind of grief. Not always visible. Not always spoken. But deeply felt. In…
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Hope Is Still Coming|Walking Toward Easter When the Road Feels Long
Summary: A comforting and reflective episode for caretakers during Lent, focusing on weariness, God's strength, and slow spiritual growth. Carole Leathem offers encouragement to embrace weariness as part of faith and invites listeners to walk slowly towards hope. Takeaways: God gives strength to...
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Still Recovering | Healing Without Rushing for Caregivers
Summary: Carole Leathem shares her personal journey of healing and recovery, emphasizing the importance of patience, self-compassion, and honoring the healing process. She discusses how caretakers often push themselves too hard and the need to accept that recovery is non-linear and requires…
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Boundaries for Caregivers | When Your Body Says Stop
Summary: In this episode, Carole Leathem shares a personal story about injury and the importance of setting boundaries for self-care. She emphasizes that boundaries are acts of protection, not punishment, and discusses practical ways to listen to our bodies and honor our limits. Chapters: 00:00...
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Learning the Language of Caregiving | Christian Encouragement for New Caregivers
Caregiving often feels like learning a foreign language. New terms. New routines. New responsibilities. And no one hands you a dictionary. In this episode of The Caretaker’s Journey, recorded from EPCOT, Carole offers Christian encouragement for new caregivers who feel overwhelmed, unprepared…
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Suddenly a Caregiver | When Caregiving Chooses You (Christian Encouragement for Caregivers)
Summary: In this episode of the Caretakers Journey podcast, Carole Leathem discusses the unexpected challenges faced by caretakers who find themselves thrust into this role without preparation. She explores the emotional turmoil, grief, and practical strategies for coping with the demands of...
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When Caretaking Chooses You | Season 3 Introduction | The Caretaker’s Journey
Caregiving often begins without warning. One phone call. One diagnosis. One moment where life changes overnight. When Caretaking Chooses You is the opening episode of Season 3 of The Caretaker’s Journey Podcast — a season created for those who suddenly become caregivers and feel unprepared,...
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A Blessing Over Your 2026 Journey | Christian Encouragement for Caregivers
Summary: In this episode of the Caretakers Journey Podcast, host Carole Leathem guides listeners through a reflective journey of embracing stillness, courage, and blessings as they prepare for the year ahead. She emphasizes the importance of receiving blessings, particularly for caretakers, and...
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A Purpose Bigger Than You | God’s Immeasurably More for Caregivers
Summary: In this conversation, Carole Leathem reflects on the journey of caretaking, emphasizing the importance of recognizing a greater purpose beyond the immediate challenges. She discusses how caretaking expands our capacity and endurance, and how our personal stories can serve as powerful...
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Courage to Step Forward | Christian Encouragement for Caregivers
Summary: In this episode of the Caretakers Journey podcast, Carole Leathem discusses the theme of 'loud courage', the quiet strength that caregivers need to show up and take steps forward, even when faced with challenges. She emphasizes the importance of asking for help and recognizing that…
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What Obedience Looks Like This Year | Christian Encouragement for Caregivers | Walking in God’s Purpose
Summary: In this episode of the Caretakers Journey Podcast, Carole Leathem explores the theme of obedience in caregiving, emphasizing the importance of small, relational acts of obedience that stem from a close walk with God. She shares personal stories and practical tips for caregivers to...
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Hearing God in Quiet Moments | Christian Encouragement for Caregivers
Summary: In this conversation, Carole Leathem discusses the challenges of caregiving and the importance of finding stillness amidst chaos. She emphasizes that stillness is not merely the absence of noise but a presence that allows for deeper connection with God. Through personal anecdotes and...
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Purpose in the Middle of Grief | Caregiver Encouragement When Your Heart Is Broken
Summary: In this conversation, Carole Leathem explores the profound relationship between grief and purpose, emphasizing that grief is a natural part of life that can lead to deeper compassion and understanding. She encourages caregivers to embrace their emotions and recognize the sacredness of...
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From Surviving to Flourishing | Encouragement for Caregivers
Summary: In this episode of the Caretakers Journey podcast, Carole Leathem discusses the transition from merely surviving to flourishing as a caretaker. She emphasizes the importance of internal growth, connection to spiritual sources, and the small daily choices that contribute to a fulfilling...
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God Will Restore What You Lost | Encouragement for Caregivers
Summary: In this episode of the Caretakers Journey podcast, Carole Leathem explores the profound themes of loss and restoration in the context of caregiving. She emphasizes that while caretaking often involves significant sacrifices, it also opens the door to unexpected restoration and growth....
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Boundaries That Bring Peace for Caregivers | Encouragement for Emotional & Time Boundaries
Summary: In this episode of the Caretakers Journey podcast, Carole Leathem discusses the importance of setting boundaries for caretakers. She emphasizes that boundaries are not walls but protective measures that allow caretakers to manage their emotional and physical well-being. The conversation...
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Setting Rhythms That Sustain You | Caregiver Burnout Recovery & Biblical Wisdom
Summary: In this episode of the Caretakers Journey podcast, Carole Leathem discusses the importance of establishing daily rhythms for caregivers to prevent burnout and maintain spiritual connection. She emphasizes the need for sustainable life patterns that invite God into everyday moments…
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God Goes Before You | Encouragement for Caregivers Facing the Unknown
Summary: In this conversation, Carole Leathem discusses the challenges faced by caretakers, particularly the uncertainty that comes with their roles. She emphasizes the comforting promise that God goes before us, preparing the way and providing what we need before we even realize we need it....
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Grace for Your Imperfections | Daily Encouragement for Caregivers & Caretakers | New Mercies Every Morning
Summary: In this episode of the Caretakers Journey podcast, Carole Leathem discusses the importance of grace in caregiving, emphasizing that caregivers often struggle with guilt and self-doubt. She shares personal insights and stories that highlight the need for self-compassion and the daily…
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Gratitude That Lifts the Spirit | Encouragement for Caregivers Feeling Weary & Overwhelmed
Summary: In this conversation, Carole Leathem explores the profound impact of authentic gratitude on our lives. She emphasizes that gratitude is not about forced positivity but about recognizing God's presence even in difficult times. Through practical exercises and spiritual insights, she...
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When You Need Breakthrough | Encouragement for Caregivers Trusting God
Are you a caregiver praying for breakthrough? Breakthrough in health, finances, relationships, peace, or strength? In today’s episode of The Caretaker’s Journey, we anchor ourselves in Isaiah 45:2 — 👉 “I will go before you and level the mountains.” This episode is for caregivers who feel stuck,...
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Courage When You Feel Invisible | God Sees You | Christian Encouragement for Caregivers
Summary: In this episode of the Caretakers podcast, Carole Leathem addresses the often unseen struggles of caregivers and the importance of recognizing their efforts. She shares personal anecdotes and biblical insights, emphasizing that God sees and values the quiet work done by those who care…
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Hope for Caregivers in Hard Places | Finding Strength, Peace & God’s Presence When Life Is Heavy
Summary: In this episode of the Caretakers Journey podcast, Carole Leathem addresses the emotional and spiritual challenges faced by caregivers who are navigating difficult circumstances. She emphasizes that it's okay to feel overwhelmed and that hope does not require one to pretend to be joyful....
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God’s Strength for Exhausted Caregivers | Christian Encouragement When You’re Worn Out
Summary: In this episode of The Caretakers Journey, Carole Leathem addresses the profound exhaustion that caretakers often experience, emphasizing that feeling drained is not a sign of failure. She draws on Isaiah 40:29 to highlight God's promise of strength and support for those who are weary....
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Purpose That Fits Your Capacity | Christian Encouragement for Caregivers Feeling Overwhelmed
Summary: In this episode of the Caretakers Journey Podcast, Carole Leathem discusses the misconceptions surrounding caregiving and purpose. She emphasizes that purpose should not feel burdensome and that God does not measure faithfulness by the weight of our responsibilities. Carole encourages...
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Purpose in Seasons of Delay | Waiting on God When Life Feels Stuck | Christian Caregiver Encouragement
Summary: In this episode of the Caretakers Journey Podcast, Carole Leathem discusses the theme of waiting, particularly in the context of caretaking. She emphasizes that delays in life do not equate to punishment or abandonment by God, but rather serve a purpose in strengthening resilience and...
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The Power of Small Obedience | Finding Purpose in Caregiving When Life Feels Ordinary
Summary: In this episode of the Caretakers Journey podcast, Carole Leathem discusses the importance of recognizing that purpose does not need to be grand or public. She emphasizes that small acts of obedience and faithfulness are sacred and can lead to significant impacts in caregiving. Through...
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Discerning What Belongs in 2026 | Letting Go of What No Longer Fits
Summary: In this episode of the Caretakers Journey Podcast, Carole Leathem discusses the concept of pruning in caregiving and personal growth. She emphasizes the importance of discernment in identifying what commitments and responsibilities are still fruitful and which ones need to be released.…
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How to Hear God’s Voice as a Caregiver | Listening for God’s Guidance in Busy, Overwhelmed Seasons
Summary: In this episode of the Caretakers Journey Podcast, Carole Leathem emphasizes the importance of hearing God's voice in everyday life, especially for caregivers. She reassures listeners that they do not need to be spiritually elite to connect with God and that His voice often comes in…
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Dreams Buried Under Caregiving | Finding God’s Purpose Again as a Caregiver
Summary: In this episode, Carole Leathem explores the theme of buried dreams, particularly for caretakers who often set aside their own desires for the needs of others. She emphasizes that these dreams are not forgotten by God and encourages listeners to gently revive them. Through personal...
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What Is God Calling You to Build? | Finding Purpose in Caregiving & Hard Seasons
Summary: In this episode of the Caretakers Journey Podcast, Carole Leathem emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's purpose amidst the challenges of caretaking. She draws parallels between the biblical story of Nehemiah and the listener's journey, encouraging them to build with the broken...
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Declaring Purpose Over Your Year | Christian Encouragement for Caregivers
Summary: In this episode of the Caretakers Journey podcast, Carole Leathem shares her personal reflections and insights on declaring purpose for the new year. She emphasizes the importance of speaking life into our circumstances and trusting in God's guidance. Carole encourages listeners to make...
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Caring for Yourself Without Guilt | Christian Self-Care for Caregivers | Finding Rest in God
Summary: In this episode of the Caretakers Journey podcast, Carole Leathem discusses the importance of rest and the spiritual invitation to take time for oneself. She emphasizes that rest is not a reward but a necessity, and that guilt has no place in self-care. Through personal anecdotes and...
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Finding Joy Again as a Caregiver | When Joy Feels Lost but God Restores It
Summary: In this episode of the Caretakers Journey podcast, Carole Leathem explores the concept of joy, emphasizing that it is not about being loud and bubbly but rather about finding quiet moments of restoration. She discusses how joy can be buried under fatigue and grief, and how it can be...
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God’s Strength When You Feel Weak | Christian Encouragement for Caregivers |
Summary: In this episode of the Caretakers Journey, Carole Leathem discusses the importance of recognizing and embracing our weaknesses as a pathway to experiencing God's strength. She emphasizes that caretakers often feel drained and inadequate, but through surrender and willingness, they can…
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Rebuilding Your Identity as a Caregiver - Finding Yourself Again in God
Summary: In this episode, Carole Leathem discusses the importance of maintaining one's identity amidst the challenges of caretaking. She emphasizes that caretakers often lose sight of who they are due to their responsibilities but reassures them that their identity is rooted in their relationship...
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Letting Go of Emotional Weight | A Caregiver’s Reset for 2026
Summary: In this episode of the Caretakers Journey podcast, Carole Leathem discusses the emotional burdens that caretakers carry and emphasizes the importance of letting go of past weights to embrace a new year. She introduces the concept of the 'invisible backpack' filled with emotional…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
The Caretaker’s Journey Podcast is a faith-based podcast offering Christian caregiver support, biblical encouragement, and practical help for family caregivers. Hosted by Carole Leathem, each episode shares Scripture, prayer, and hope for those caring for aging parents, spouses, or loved ones with dementia, chronic illness, disability, or mental health challenges. Topics include caregiver burnout, grief, self-care, faith, and purpose. Find encouragement, strength, and reminders that even in your hardest seasons, you're not alone, God is present, and your caregiving journey matters.
HOSTED BY
Carole Leathem
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does The Caretaker's Journey have?
The Caretaker's Journey currently has 181 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is The Caretaker's Journey about?
The Caretaker’s Journey Podcast is a faith-based podcast offering Christian caregiver support, biblical encouragement, and practical help for family caregivers. Hosted by Carole Leathem, each episode shares Scripture, prayer, and hope for those caring for aging parents, spouses, or loved ones with...
How often does The Caretaker's Journey release new episodes?
The Caretaker's Journey publishes regularly with 181 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to The Caretaker's Journey?
You can listen to The Caretaker's Journey on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts The Caretaker's Journey?
The Caretaker's Journey is created and hosted by Carole Leathem.
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