engAGINGconversations's podcast

Honest discussion about end of life planning and choices to help start conversations and change the way society doesn't talk about death. Our goal is to improve quality of life.

Dying with Dad, with Yvonne Caputo_112 08/16/2022

Dying with Dad, with Yvonne Caputo_112 Teacher, author, corporate trainer, psychotherapist, and author Yvonne Caputo, shares her family caregiver story with us today. Through experiences with her professional life, she was able to have difficult conversations with her father that changed their relationship, and ultimately honored his end of life wishes. Listen to our talk today and learn more about: The MOST important thing we can do to improve communication with our parents The Five Wishes Document Quality of Life How to Pick your Health Care Agent/Proxy And where to find out more about and her books: /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/24074679

111_Sandwiched, with Laurie James 03/08/2022

111_Sandwiched, with Laurie James How does one manage when you have 4 girls between 10 and 15 years of age and your mom has a life changing medical issue? Why you become sandwiched, of course. shares her experience with us today. And the struggles are real. Listen to our talk today and find out why it’s so important to advocate for your loved ones, even if it means being the “squeaky wheel”. Other things you MUST know: Why you need to do your homework when your are bringing caregivers into your home The importance of having conversations about finances with your parents (AND YOUR KIDS) Why YOU must have Power of Attorney/Health Care Proxy documentation in place Ask for a palliative care consultation (even if you think it means Hospice–it doesn’t!) Life is short, and if you are not fulfilled, find someone who can help you get where you want to be!! What is the difference between having a coach and a therapist Resources: Social Media links: /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/22354961

A Way Back to Health with Kelley Skoloda_110 12/07/2021

A Way Back to Health with Kelley Skoloda_110 Personal stories are so important. Sharing our agonies and defeats as well as our wins can help others when they find themselves in similar situations. shares her story today. She was a busy, healthy, active businesswoman, wife and Mom when she was diagnosed with cancer. She wrote a book, which she talks about with me. Listen and find out: How important colon cancer screening is Why it’s so important to advocate for yourself, or have a family caregiver advocate for you That it’s ok to interview your potential physician How gratitude can help even on the worst of days Find Kelly’s books here: /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/21378338

Medicare's Annual Enrollment Period with Christian Worstell_109 11/02/2021

Medicare's Annual Enrollment Period with Christian Worstell_109 Christian Worstell is a licensed insurance agent, senior staff writer for , and Medicare expert. I talk with him today about and all it’s moving parts, including the annual enrollment period which runs from October 15th-December 7th every year. Listen to today’s episode and learn: The different types of Medicare coverage About the Annual Enrollment Period Things beneficiaries should be aware of during AEP that can be costly if you don’t pay attention Advice and tips on how seniors can choose the best plan for their needs Benefits covered by Medicare that beneficiaries may not be aware of Why you should care about this if you’re not on Medicare Other resources to help you navigate Medicare: State Health Insurance Assistance Program /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/21007211

Talking Senior Care and Finances with Ryan McEniff_108 08/24/2021

Talking Senior Care and Finances with Ryan McEniff_108 People like to talk about finances about as much (or maybe less) than they like talking about death. But it is HUGELY important to know what your parents finances. And hopefully before you take on the role of family caregiver. I’m talking with today and he’s talking to me about this topic. Ryan is the owner/CEO of in Lexington, MA and host of the podcast . We are sharing our platforms to help get the word out about the need to have conversations with your parents early and often. We touch on many different issues related to finances and aging. Re-listening to this has given ME anxiety! But avoiding this topic doesn’t make the issues related to it go away. And putting these conversations off until your family is in crisis WILL NOT help you. Listen and learn about: What home care can cost What nursing home care can cost Why you need to be proactive to help your parent. AND yourself Where you can find resources to help you navigate this time Resources: /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/20251076

A Talk with The Dementia Whisperer, Laura Wayman_107 04/23/2021

A Talk with The Dementia Whisperer, Laura Wayman_107 Did you know that dementia is not a diagnosis, but rather a list symptoms? And that 50% of those over 65 can have one of these symptoms? What is a dementia whisper and how does one become one? has spent decades in the memory care space. Her book now in its 3rd edition, is a resource for us all. She talks with us today about her experiences and expertise. Learn about: becoming dementia aware and why it is essential how to effectively communicate with a loved one with dementia caregiver burnout managing dementia symptoms dementia navigators Check out Laura’s video here: Follow her on , , , /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/18836924

Loving Choices, Peaceful Passing with Kathleen Vallee Stein_106 03/08/2021

Loving Choices, Peaceful Passing with Kathleen Vallee Stein_106 is a baby boomer. And so are her siblings. If you were raised in the 50’s, 60’s, and even 70’s, your father often had the final say about everything. And many ruled with an iron hand. When her Dad was facing end of life, it was difficult to reverse rolls. And her Mom was not in a position to take the lead. So what do you do? Kathleen’s experiences led her to write a beautiful book, . We talked about her experience as a family caregiver. Listen today as we discuss: How to start an end of life conversation with your parent when your parent “ruled the roost” Why you might need to start the conversation about hospice Divide and conquer (if you have siblings) is a great strategy Why it is so important to talk to your parents about finances Reasons to consider a hospice chaplain And why it is SO important to do these things before your parent is dying Resources: , , , Find Kathleen here: , /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/18239138

105_Using Essential Oils for Neuropathic Pain, with Kami Schaal, RN 02/19/2021

105_Using Essential Oils for Neuropathic Pain, with Kami Schaal, RN Kami Schaal is a career RN. She spent over a decade working in an ICU, in a level 1 trauma center in Philadelphia. She’s seen it all. She transitioned to home care/hospice case management and says the transition wasn’t difficult. She came to the use of essential oils with her family. Her academic background helps her understand them and confidently share them with others. Listen today to hear about: neuropathic pain How it is (and is not) treated Why you might want to learn more about the use of essential oils Who can benefit from their use and a bonus discussion about vaccines and things you may (or may not) know about them Hear more from Kami on her new podcast: And find her here: Her website: or on /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/18016964

When Caregiving Calls with Dr. Aaron Blight_104 02/06/2021

When Caregiving Calls with Dr. Aaron Blight_104 has had a lifetime of caregiving experience. Both personal and professional. He took what he learned as a family caregiver and started a career in professional caregiving. His latest endeavor has taken him from the owner of a homecare business, to being the founder of , and author of . Why should you listen? Because there are over 53 MILLION Americans providing unpaid care for a family member. And 83% of those caregivers are experience MORE stress with the onset of Covid-19. And chances are very good that if you are not already a family caregiver, you’re going to be. We had a great conversation today about: Some of the struggles family caregivers face Unanticipated rewards of being a family caregiver Suggestions for managing guilt/resentment family caregivers can feel What dying teaches you about living Why you should read his book Find Aaron on , , , , /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/17845931

Caregiver, Cancer Survivor, and Wellness Advocate, Terry Lyn Fountain_103 01/22/2021

Caregiver, Cancer Survivor, and Wellness Advocate, Terry Lyn Fountain_103 Terry Lyn Fountain has a great outlook on life. As you listen to her speak you can tell she is an optimist. And she is also an realist. She is a 78 year old cancer survivor. She has a husband for whom she provides care. She is also an essential oil user and a new wellness advocate. She shares her experiences today. On today’s episode, we talk about: Why it’s important to put yourself first and/or How she developed a partnership with her medical doctors to incorporate the use of essential oils What health benefits she and her husband have experienced since starting to use dōTERRA essential oils How many prescription medications she has been taken off of since she began using essential oils One great piece of advice she has when it comes to visits with your doctors Get in touch with Terry here: Links to Resources: /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/17649725

Erythra Thalassa, Brain Disrupted with Annette Berkovits_102 01/08/2021

Erythra Thalassa, Brain Disrupted with Annette Berkovits_102 You never know when you might become a family caregiver. never thought she would be in that role. In fact, at this point in her life, as a woman in her 70’s, she thought someone might be needing to care for her. Her story is one of resilience and support for her family. And exemplifies the importance of Advance Care Planning conversations for adults, at any age. She has written several books in various genres. In her most recent book, she shares her journey, via poetry, through her son’s devastating hemorrhagic stroke. Listen today and hear Annette talk about: The importance of books, music, fresh air, and most importantly, human interaction Why the title, Erythra Thalassa How important hope can be Why it’s important to put yourself in the shoes of the patient The importance of enjoying the little things And check out the song her son, Jeremy wrote for his wife and daughters: Find Annette on , , , /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/17433932

When I'm 64 with Ken Stern_101 12/25/2020

When I'm 64 with Ken Stern_101 is not only the host of a new podcast aiming to help family caregivers, he is a member of the Sandwich Generation. The new podcast, , is produced by , an offshoot of the . By sharing family caregiver stories, they hope to help other family caregivers understand that there are many ways to provide care and help our aging loved ones and the family caregivers. The Stanford Center on Longevity is the world’s leading think tank on longevity. They understand that greater longevity brings greater challenges, especially because our society is not set up to assist with the needs of a larger, aging population. When I’m 64 is hoping to help. Listen as I talk with Ken to hear: How many family caregivers there are in the US Why you should NOT feel alone if you are a family caregiver What is needed to support family caregivers in longer-term roles as our society ages and lives longer Why employers must support their employees in their family caregiving roles What is needed to optimize longer lives How conversations about this can help you and your family come up with solutions that work for you And check out to hear some beautiful caregiver stories that may help you in your journey! /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/17320208

100_Aromatherapy Use in Palliative Care with Denise Joswiak RN 12/11/2020

100_Aromatherapy Use in Palliative Care with Denise Joswiak RN I’m sure you’ve heard of essential oils. A lot of people think they’re witchy or woo woo-ey. But the reason they can be so effective is they are made up of chemical compounds and work at a cellular level. As in science! Denise Joswiak is not only a certified aromatherapist, she is also a registered nurse. And she uses evidenced based research to guide her aromatherapy practice. But she also says that most people who share essential oils have a personal story to share. Denise shares her personal experience and her professional expertise with us, discussing the use of oils as palliative care options. Remember, that palliative care is defined by the as specialized medical care for people living with a serious illness. It focuses on providing relief from symptoms and the stress of illness. The goal is to improve quality of life for both the patient and the family. Something essential oils can, and do offer. Listen to today’s episode to learn: How essential oils can be used in the palliative care space What oils can help Things to consider when choosing essential oils What the difference is between essential oils and hydrosols (science!) What her research showed regarding the use of essential oils for nausea, anxiety, and pain How to find a certified aromatherapist How to earn CEU’s and become certified yourself How to get aromatherapy in your healthcare workplace some great suggestions for home made gifts! You can find Denise here: , , and , or email her at Other resources: Right click here to download and save this episode to your computer /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/17149664

Mettle Health with Dr. BJ Miller_099 11/28/2020

Mettle Health with Dr. BJ Miller_099 Life is inevitable. And there are moments in life that define the path you take. had one of those life defining moments in college. He became disabled after an electrical injury. It was his experience as a patient that led him to become a physician. He was ready to give up on medicine after becoming disillusioned by our healthcare system, when he became aware of, and began practicing, . On today’s episode, you’ll hear what BJ has to say about: –online palliative care and coaching–how to work with your doctor to achieve YOUR goals of care How medicine can work together with other disciplines to improve the things that can’t be fixed How a crisis can move you (patient and family caregivers) to a place of new invention Why he thinks Covid has created an opportunity to help more patients and families decrease suffering Why it is important (on so many levels) to support family caregivers And check out these resources: Follow BJ on /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/16983176

Jaime Think Say Do, with Jaime Robbins_098 11/13/2020

Jaime Think Say Do, with Jaime Robbins_098 What happens when you are a woman who is finally figuring out her life, in a committed relationship, about to have a baby, and then diagnosed with cancer? Jaime literally lost her voice for months while undergoing treatment for throat cancer, so she began writing. blogging her experiences and feelings. Listen today to hear Jaime’s story and find out: Why being authentic is important (or should be) to you Why you need to know what palliative care is Why (if you are a parent) you are an aging parent, no matter how old you are And maybe start asking yourself: How are you showing up for your life? When do you feel like you are happiest? Conversely, when do you feel at your worst? Find Jaime here: , /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/16803812

All of Us Warriors with Rebecca Munn_097 10/30/2020

All of Us Warriors with Rebecca Munn_097 Death doula, and author, is an optimist. She was raised by optimists. Yet she encourages conversations about death. And talks to people about cancer. Why? Because it’s who she is. Her first book, , she shares the journey she took with her mom after her second cancer diagnosis. Rebecca talks about the challenges that so many caregivers face: juggling parenthood, career, and geographic barriers to provide care to her Mom, and Dad, at different times. In her newest book, , she talks with others about their cancer experiences. And what they want others to know. Listen to this episode to learn: What agape love is How you can be an optimist and talk about this stuff An important question you can ask your dying loved one Why staying engaged with others is important Other resources Rebecca mentions: by Laura Lynn Jackson by Elizabeth Gilbert /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/16621244

Plan for Aging Well_096 10/22/2020

Plan for Aging Well_096 How do you feel about being dismissed? Or ignored. Or being told what to do…This is often how our aging population is treated. And if we don’t change things, this will happen to you as well. is a social worker, certified Alzheimer’s disease treatment specialist, and author of a new book titled . Check out this episode of engAGING Conversations, and learn about the importance of: early communication about wishes (verbal and written) the financial impact on family caregivers “Team caregiving” becoming an advocate for your loved one AND yourself Follow her on , and /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/16441685

Welcome Back Update_095 10/09/2020

Welcome Back Update_095 Hey Stranger, where ya been? I know I’ve been in absentia for the better part of the last 3 months and really my only excuse is…Covid. No, I didn’t have it, but I have been struggling with thoughts about what I’m going to do with the rest of my life. As we all know, life has changed. And in some ways for the better. So I thought I’d fill you in on my summer, and where engAGING Conversations is headed. Stay tuned and find out more about: essential oils And thank you /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/16338665

Man's 4th Best Hospital with Samuel Shem_094 09/09/2020

Man's 4th Best Hospital with Samuel Shem_094 Samuel Shem, aka Stephen Bergman MD, wrote The House of God after surviving his medical residency. 40 years later, he reprises the characters for his most recent novel, . He says the best way to talk about history is through fictional writing. In Man’s 4th Best Hospital, he shares his observations for the need for healthcare reform, using the humor, enthusiasm, sadness, and honesty of some of the beloved characters from The House of God. This book will definitely give you an insiders view of what’s wrong with today’s healthcare system, and why physician (and nurse) burnout is so common. Listen today and find out: What the electronic medical record is really about What he feels is missing in healthcare What is is going to take to fix it What unique class he teaches to NYU med students /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/15919787

Joan Lunden (Yes, THAT Joan Lunden!) on Aging_093 06/13/2020

Joan Lunden (Yes, THAT Joan Lunden!) on Aging_093 Joan Lunden is a well-known, influential public figure and author. I talk with her today about her family caregiver experience, as well as her newest book an honest look into what it’s like to be an aging woman. Listen today to hear: Why Joan is the national spokesperson for How to start a conversation with your parents What’s the secret of life? (According to Joan’s mom) Why you should write your own eulogy and obituary Why we need to talk candidly about changes associated with aging Find out more about find her , and follow her on social media /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/14808797

Care.ly with Mike Eidsaune_092 05/28/2020

Care.ly with Mike Eidsaune_092 Do you have a loved one in an assisted living or long-term care facility? If you do, you need to listen to this episode. Mike Eidsaune, founder and CEO of Care.ly, tells about this communication tool. Find out: What Care.ly is Who it is for How it can be used to improve communication Why it is beneficial to not only families, but professional caregivers Links to Resources: /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/14601938

COVID-19 Lockdown Day 70, Rincon Puerto Rico Edition 05/28/2020

COVID-19 Lockdown Day 70, Rincon Puerto Rico Edition The last (hopefully) update on Covid-19 lockdown in Rincon, PR /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/14600312

Anatomical Donation with Mark Zavoyna_091 05/12/2020

Anatomical Donation with Mark Zavoyna_091 Many of us have talked about end of life wishes. I’m willing to bet though, that many have never considered anatomical donation as an option. Mark Zavoyna is the Operations Manager of the Anatomical Donor Program at . Listen and learn today: What is Who can donate? Who cannot donate? Why you would donate Associated costs Need more information? Do an internet search –they have a comprehensive list of US donor sites, contact a nearby medical school’s department of medicine (anatomy), or email /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/14391128

COVID-19 Lockdown Day 37 Rincon, PR Edition 04/22/2020

COVID-19 Lockdown Day 37 Rincon, PR Edition Latest updates regarding lockdown in Rincon, Puerto Rico including information on life and availability of testing here /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/14098496

The Conversation Project with Kate DeBartolo_090 04/14/2020

The Conversation Project with Kate DeBartolo_090 How do you want to live? The goal of The Conversation Project is to get people talking about this. And they are using the non-medical community to get these conversations started. The focus is on values, not medical terminology. Kate DeBartolo, who oversees the Conversation Project, shares her expertise with us about having end of life conversations. Find out more on today’s episode: The effects of end of life conversations on depression rates Who should have these conversations When they should have them What is it about dying home that is important to people What role does a loved one play as a proxy or healthcare advocate find out what resources are available here: Find them on , , /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/13983248

COVID-19 Lockdown Day 29 Rincon, Puerto Rico Edition 04/13/2020

COVID-19 Lockdown Day 29 Rincon, Puerto Rico Edition The latest on life in Puerto Rico in the midst of the COVID-19 lockdown. /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/13968932

COVID-10 Lockdown Day 20 Rincon, Puerto Rico Edition 04/04/2020

COVID-10 Lockdown Day 20 Rincon, Puerto Rico Edition Update on the last week and tips about how to wear a mask and gloves, where to find more GOOD information. /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/13845833

COVID-10 Lockdown Day 20 Rincon, Puerto Rico Edition 04/04/2020

Aimee Gindin, Journalist, Daughter, Family Caregiver_089 03/30/2020

Aimee Gindin, Journalist, Daughter, Family Caregiver_089 . No beating around the bush there. A great article about Aimee’s experience as a family caregiver for her Dad. Aimee shares her experience today as well as suggestions for making things better for all. Listen and learn about: Barriers to Palliative Care Goals of Care Conversations Why adult medicine should be practiced like pediatrics Follow Aimee on and find her soon at aimeegindin.com /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/13764536

COVID-19 Lockdown Day 12 & 13 Rincon, PR Edition 03/28/2020

COVID-19 Lockdown Day 12 & 13 Rincon, PR Edition The latest here in PR. #quedateencasa #stayhome #staythefuckathome /episode/index/show/engagingconversations/id/13741079

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