Episodes
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Reframing Care: Aisha Adkins on Caregiving, Equity and Dignity (Audio Version)
In this episode hosts Erna and Megan speak with Aisha Adkins about her caregiving journey for parents living with dementia, her work founding Caregivers of Color Collective, and her advocacy at Caring Across Generations. They discuss grief and therapy, the importance of storytelling and…
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Reframing Care: Aisha Adkins on Caregiving, Equity and Dignity (Video Version)
In this episode hosts Erna and Megan speak with Aisha Adkins about her caregiving journey for parents living with dementia, her work founding Caregivers of Color Collective, and her advocacy at Caring Across Generations. They discuss grief and therapy, the importance of storytelling and…
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Season Four Kickoff: Erna and Megan Behind the Scenes--Audio Version
Erna and Megan open Season Four by sharing behind-the-scenes snapshots of their lives—Megan as a nursing professor, nurse practitioner, and certified health and wellness nurse coach, and Erna as a marketing, communications, and business development leader in a public health nonprofit…
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Season Four Kickoff: Erna and Megan Behind the Scenes--Video Version
Erna and Megan open Season Four by sharing behind-the-scenes snapshots of their lives—Megan as a nursing professor, nurse practitioner, and certified health and wellness nurse coach, and Erna as a marketing, communications, and business development leader in a public health nonprofit…
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Season Finale: Lessons in Grief, Love, and the Caregiver Village--Audio Version
In the season finale, hosts Erna and Megan reflect on a year of conversations with caregivers and experts, exploring grief, the power of community, workplace policies, and the many faces of caregiving. They share candid lessons learned, gratitude for their guests, and reminders about asking for…
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Season Finale: Lessons in Grief, Love, and the Caregiver Village--Video Version
In the season finale, hosts Erna and Megan reflect on a year of conversations with caregivers and experts, exploring grief, the power of community, workplace policies, and the many faces of caregiving. They share candid lessons learned, gratitude for their guests, and reminders about asking for…
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Doing Hard Things: Hannah Setzer on Disability, Joy, and Community (Audio Only)
Hosts Erna and Megan interview Hannah Setzer—author, advocate, adaptive fitness coach, and parent—about living authentically with disability, caregiving, and creating community. Hannah shares stories of resilience, parenting children, and how she turned a dream for an inclusive playground into…
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Grief, Meaning Making, and the Power of Community: Video Version
Erna and Megan speak with clinical hypnotherapist and end-of-life doula Sarah Rubens about her sudden caregiving journey, the emotional and physical challenges of caring for loved ones, and how community, spirituality, and therapeutic tools like hypnosis supported her healing. They explore grief…
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Grief, Meaning Making, and the Power of Community: Audio Version
Erna and Megan speak with clinical hypnotherapist and end-of-life doula Sarah Rubens about her sudden caregiving journey, the emotional and physical challenges of caring for loved ones, and how community, spirituality, and therapeutic tools like hypnosis supported her healing. They explore grief…
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Caregiving Is Everyone's Work: Audio Version
This episode explores the social and personal dimensions of caregiving, highlighting its undervaluation, gendered expectations, and the need for supportive policies. Hosts Erna and Megan share personal stories, societal observations, and call for greater recognition and support for caregivers...
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Caregiving is Everyone's Work: Video Version
This episode explores the social and personal dimensions of caregiving, highlighting its undervaluation, gendered expectations, and the need for supportive policies. Hosts Erna and Megan share personal stories, societal observations, and call for greater recognition and support for caregivers...
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Doing Hard Things: Hannah Setzer on Disability, Joy, and Community
Hosts Erna and Megan interview Hannah Setzer—author, advocate, adaptive fitness coach, and parent—about living authentically with disability, caregiving, and creating community. Hannah shares stories of resilience, parenting children, and how she turned a dream for an inclusive playground into…
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When Care Calls: A Daughter's Journey from NYC to Home
In this episode, hosts Erna and Megan sit down with Jacquelyn Revere to hear her family caregiving story: moving home to care for her mother and grandmother with dementia, the shock of sudden responsibilities, and the emotional complexity of caregiving as a young adult. They discuss sharing her...
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Caregiver Levels: Alma Valencia's Story
Alma Valencia shares her 10-year journey caring for her mother with frontotemporal dementia, explaining how caregiving roles evolve from a helper to a full-time protector. She discusses balancing family responsibilities, stepping away from her career, building community through her Instagram...
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2026: The Year Caregivers Take Action
In this conversation, Erna and Megan discuss the challenges faced by caregivers in 2026, emphasizing the need for community support, the importance of respite, and the impact of Medicaid cuts. They explore the necessity of self-care for caregivers and the importance of taking action to support…
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"Soaring Together": More with Jillian Arnold
In this episode of the Whole Caregiver podcast, hosts Erna and Megan engage in a heartfelt conversation with Jillian Arnold, author of 'Soaring Together.' They explore Jillian's journey as a caregiver, the emotional complexities of caring for children with disabilities, and the importance of...
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Gratitude & Holiday Wishes
In this heartfelt holiday message, Megan and Erna express their gratitude to their listeners and reflect on the themes of love, service, and community. They share personal insights about the importance of connection during the holiday season, especially for those who may be grieving. The...
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Parenting Children with a Rare Disease: Our Conversation with Jillian Arnold
Hosts Erna and Megan welcome Jillian Arnold, who shares her family’s journey after both of her children were diagnosed with ASMD, a rare and progressive genetic condition. Jillian Arnold is the proud mom of two children, Roman and Stella, who both live with ASMD, a rare and terminal genetic...
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Building Caregiver-Friendly Workplaces
Hosts Erna and Megan interview Tracy Dunbar, founder of HR Redefined, about navigating caregiving in the workplace. Tracy is a dedicated leader who strongly believes in the power of Human Resources and Talent Management to drive social justice and equity in our workplaces. With a deep commitment…
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Finding Grace Through ALS
Erna and Megan talk with Lisa Valentine Clark about caring for her late husband, Dr. Christopher Clark, who was diagnosed with ALS. Lisa emphasizes the need to share experiences and the legacy of love that caregiving can create, even in the face of adversity. The conversation serves as a reminder...
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From Grief to Growth
In this episode hosts Erna and Megan reflect on Erna’s origin story as a caregiver, exploring grief, the temptation to idealize loved ones, and the move toward honest remembrance. They explore the balance between honoring loved ones and acknowledging their complexities. They discuss connecting…
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Letting Go, Holding On
Hosts Erna and Megan reflect on two years of The Whole Caregiver Podcast, revisiting their origin stories and how caregiving roles have changed over time. They discuss transitions—preparing children for independence, supporting aging parents, and the messy, non‑linear reality of caregiving. The...
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Self-Worth and Self-Care
In this episode, Erna and Megan share valuable insights from their caregiving journeys, discussing themes of self-worth, the importance of preparation, and the dynamics of healthy relationships. They emphasize the significance of deep self-care as a holistic approach to living. They discuss...
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Caregiving in Uncertain Times
Hosts Erna and Meg open season three discussing how caregivers can live with uncertainty: accepting what is out of our control, setting boundaries, and trusting ourselves and others. They share practical strategies—turning off notifications, pacing information, extending grace, and learning from...
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Memorable Moments from Season Two
In this final episode of Season 2, Erna and Megan revisit the podcast's original intent to create a supportive community for family caregivers, while sharing personal highlights, factual information, and lessons learned. The hosts recount favorite episodes, including interviews and discussions...
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Let Them Part II Episode
Join hosts Erna and her guests Rachel and Xue as they explore the application of Mel Robbins' book, 'The Let Them Theory', in the context of caregiving. In this episode, they discuss the constant state of stress caregivers experience and how understanding and managing stress can impact…
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Let Them Part I Episode
In this engaging episode, hosts Megan and Erna, along with their guests Xue Peng and Rachel Cohen, delve into the transformative ideas presented in Mel Robbins' book, The Let Them Theory. The discussion explores personal insights, mindset shifts, and the balance between caregiving and self-care,...
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Medical Gaslighting Stories: Empathy and Advocacy
Welcome to this episode of The Whole Caregiver, where hosts Erna and Meg delve into the complex and often challenging world of medical gaslighting. In this candid discussion, Erna shares her personal experiences with medical gaslighting, shedding light on how assumptions and bias can impact…
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Medical Gaslighting: Navigating Patient-Provider Dynamics
In this fascinating episode, hosts Erna Alfred-Liousas and Megan Thomas Hebdon delve deep into the world of medical gaslighting. They explore its definitions, origins, and the continuum of medical gaslighting, including medical invalidation, and discuss how it manifests in modern healthcare...
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Navigating Early Adulthood with Epilepsy
In this enlightening episode, hosts Erna Alfred-Liousas and Megan Thomas-Hebdon welcome a special guest, Erin Cebreros, Megan's older sister, to discuss the journey of living with epilepsy. Erin shares her personal experiences dealing with epilepsy, a condition she developed as a young adult…
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Teachers and Caregivers as Partners
In this episode, Erna Alfred-Liousas and Megan Thomas Hebdon welcome a special guest, Caitie Thomas, a dedicated second-grade teacher. Caitie shares her journey and offers a glimpse into the challenges teachers face in low-income schools, from crowded classrooms to policy hurdles. She emphasizes...
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Embracing Self-Compassion: Turning Love Inward for Caregivers
In this episode, Erna and Megan delve into the essence of self-compassion, particularly for family caregivers. Drawing on Megan's nurse coaching training and the influential work of Dr. Kristin Neff, they explore practical love and kindness toward oneself, especially crucial for those who…
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Happy National Caregivers Day!
Welcome to a special episode dedicated to National Caregivers Day, hosted by Megan and Erna. This episode sheds light on the importance of both formal and informal caregivers and their invaluable contributions to families, communities, and society. Discover the origins of this special day,...
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Balancing Engineering and Empathy: A Father's Journey in Caregiving
Join hosts Erna and Megan in a conversation with special guest Matt Hebdon. As an associate professor and professional engineer, Matt ventures beyond his academic role to share his deeply personal journey as a caregiver. In this episode, we explore the dual focus on partner caregivers and Rare...
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Navigating Financial Well-Being for Family Caregivers
In this enlightening episode of The Whole Caregiver, hosts Erna and Megan dive deep into the essential topic of financial well-being for family caregivers. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, Erna shares her experience with financial planning while managing her mother’s care,...
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To Caregivers In LA
In this short episode, Erna and Megan reach out to listeners, particularly those in the Los Angeles area, who are facing dire circumstances due to recent wildfires. They express solidarity and offer support, sharing their thoughts and prayers with those affected. This page is a good place to…
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Navigating Financial Wellbeing: A Focus on Megan's Research
Welcome to a new episode of The Whole Caregiver, where hosts Erna and Megan kick off the New Year 2025 with a critical discussion on financial well-being. This episode is part one of a two-part series focusing on the financial challenges faced by caregivers. Megan shares her personal journey into...
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Memories and Moments: The Heartfelt Journey of Caregiving During the Holidays
Join hosts Megan and Erna on "The Whole Caregiver" podcast as they reminisce about holiday caregiving memories. In this episode, they share personal stories and reflections, highlighting the challenges and rewards of caregiving during the festive season. Listen as Erna shares memorable moments…
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Empowering Caregivers: Insights from the Caregiver Nation Summit
Join Erna and Megan in a special December episode as they discuss the transformative experiences and insights gained from the Caregiver Nation Summit. Recorded amidst holiday preparations, this episode highlights the significance of advocacy and awareness in family caregiving. Megan shares her...
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Unmasking the Caregiver: Truths, Assumptions, and Emotional Journeys
Join hosts Erna and Megan in a compelling episode of The Whole Caregiver as they welcome Ellen Patnaude, an award-winning author and coach, to share her candid caregiving journey. Ellen opens up about the assumptions she had before stepping into the caregiving role and the emotional complexities...
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Embracing the Power of the Reset
In this special episode, Erna shares a reflection in honor of National Caregiver Month, emphasizing the importance of hitting the reset button in our lives. Through a personal story of hiking an active volcano in Sicily with her husband, Erna explores how this challenging yet rewarding experience...
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Finding Balance: The Caregiver's Journey
In this heartfelt episode of "The Whole Caregiver," host Megan Hebden shares her personal reflections on the challenges and triumphs of family caregiving. As Family Caregiving Month is celebrated, Megan opens up about her own struggles in balancing numerous responsibilities, from hosting the...
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Preparing for Safety: Aging Loved Ones and Caregiver Insights
Join hosts Erna and Megan in the final episode of The Whole Caregiver podcast as they welcome back Susan Chaityn Lebovits. Dive into a comprehensive discussion on ensuring the safety of aging loved ones, emphasizing early preparation. Susan shares practical tips on home modifications, from...
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Navigating Communication Challenges in Caregiving
Welcome back to another enlightening episode of "The Whole Caregiver" with your hosts, Erna and Megan. In this second installment of our series with Susan, we delve deep into the intricacies of communication as our loved ones age. Susan shares her wealth of experience and insights on the physical...
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Navigating the Caregiving Journey: Insights and Support
Join hosts Erna and Megan in this heartfelt episode of The Whole Caregiver, where they welcome their friend and guest, Susan Chaityn Lebovits. Susan shares her personal and professional caregiving journey, providing insights into the challenges and solutions she encountered along the way. Susan...
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Bonus: Megan Shares About Current Self-Care Focus
Join Megan for a bonus episode focusing on the importance of self-care during life's many transitions. Having recently moved and faced with a new environment, Megan shares her personal journey of managing anxiety and OCD, particularly the challenges associated with returning to a culture that...
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Season 2: The Ongoing Challenges of Caregiving--Erna
In this episode, Megan interviews Erna about the ongoing challenges she encountered while caring for her mom. Erna described the following challenges: 1. Scheduling and Traveling: By trying to do everything, Erna realized she had not planned time for herself. Because of this, she made herself…
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Season 2: The Ongoing Challenges of Caregiving--Megan
In this episode, Erna interviews Megan about the consistent challenges related to family caregiving in her life. Megan identifies: 1. Sleep (or lack of) 2. The difficulty of transitioning care during a move. With caregiving, Megan has lived in four different states and has navigated the health…
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Season 2: Introduction to Our New Format
Hello and welcome back to The Whole Caregiver! We are excited to launch our second season. This brief episode introduces you to some important changes that will be coming your way this season: 1. Social media engagement! We now have a Facebook page: The Whole Caregiver and an Instagram handle:...
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Season 1 Wrap-Up
In this short episode, we reflect on the first season of "The Whole Caregiver," and discuss what is ahead. We have so much gratitude for those who have been interviewed and for our listeners. Thank you for joining us on this journey as we have learned and continue to learn. Please join us next...