Navigating the World with Your Aging Loved One

What if the journey of aging and caregiving could feel less overwhelming and more connected, hopeful, and human? The willGather Podcast: Navigating the World with Your Aging Loved One invites you into conversations that empower older adults, family caregivers, and aging-services professionals with insight, dignity, and direction. Hosted by Nicole Will, family caregiver, advocate, and founder of willGather, this top-rated weekly podcast shares heartfelt stories, practical guidance, and meaningful conversations with leaders across dementia care, senior living, home care, and the broader care economy. Nicole blends lived experience with professional expertise, drawing from her background in Social Gerontology, her years as a senior living director, and the personal caregiving journey that inspired her work. Each episode offers a warm, grounded space to learn, feel seen, and discover resources that make the road ahead just a little easier. Whether you’re caring for a loved one, supporting families through your profession, or simply curious about what it means to age well, you’ll find connection, clarity, and hope here. Disclaimer: We are not medical professionals and do not provide medical advice. For medical questions, please consult a qualified healthcare provider. Guest opinions are their own. Stay connected: Follow the show for new episodes each week. To explore guests, resources, and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com

Inside U.S. News & World Report Nursing Home Ratings: What Families Need to Know with Ben Harder, Managing Editor and Chief of Health Analysis at U.S. News & World Report 11/19/2025

When Systems Fail, Caregivers Lead with Jessica C. Guthrie, M.Ed, Founder, Career & Caregiving Collide™, Caregiver Advocate and Educator 11/12/2025

The Power of Early Diagnosis and Advocacy in Caregiving’s Detective Work with Katie Brandt, Director of Caregiver Support Services and Public Relations at the Massachusetts General Hospital Frontotemporal Disorders Unit & Global Advocate When her husband was diagnosed with frontotemporal degeneration at just 29, Katie Brandt’s life changed overnight. What began as confusion and heartbreak became a lifelong calling to transform how we see, support, and study dementia. Today, Katie is the Director of Caregiver Support Services and Public Relations at the , and the Founder & CEO of . In this conversation, we talk about what it means to become a “caregiver detective”, the quiet observer, the record keeper, the advocate who pieces together the truth when something feels off. We explore how early and accurate diagnosis brings dignity, how research becomes more human when it includes caregiver voices, and why supporting caregivers isn’t just compassionate, it’s strategic. Katie shares the lessons she’s learned through love, loss, and leadership, and how her belief that “love will end FTD” continues to guide her work and the families she serves. To buys tickets and learn more about A Night with the Arts for FTD, an annual gala featuring the Sermos Memorial Art Show, benefitting the clinical research program in the MGH Frontotemporal Disorders Unit. Visit . The MGH Frontotemporal Disorders Unit hosts From Care to Cure podcast. Listen . Thank you to our Sponsor is a therapeutic dementia care platform that supports caregivers. We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts. Please follow for updates, rate & review! For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, /episode/index/show/willgather/id/38505550

Comedy, Caregiving, and Courage with Kelsey Cook, Comedian, Caregiver & Advocate 09/24/2025

The Weight of Care & the Gift of Sleep with Andrea Suchin, Caregiver Advocate & Co-Founder of Wuggle 09/17/2025

Why Aging Is Anything But Boring with Jean Ketcham, Founder of Aging But Dangerous & Author 09/03/2025

When FTD Changes Everything, Finding Strength, Purpose, and Community with Nanci Anderson & Lindsay Early, Co-Founders of Gary’s FUB Team, AFTD Ambassadors, and Family Caregiver Advocates When Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) entered their lives, everything changed for Nanci Anderson and her daughters, Lindsay Early and Emily Anderson. In this conversation, they open their hearts about the long and confusing road to Gary’s diagnosis, the challenges of caregiving, and the deep grief of watching someone you love slip away too soon. They also share the turning point, when they chose to honor Gary by creating Gary’s FUB Team and raising awareness through advocacy and community. This is a story of heartbreak and resilience, of carrying love forward, and of finding purpose in the face of loss. And here’s where you can step in. Gary’s FUB Team is hosting their annual fundraising event, September 22nd, to benefit AFTD. This is an evening filled with community, storytelling, and hope. Every ticket, every donation, every act of support moves us closer to better care, greater awareness, and the possibility of ending FTD. If you’d like to attend, contribute, or simply stand alongside families like Nanci and Lindsay’s, you can visit . Whether you show up in person or from afar, your support matters more than you know! Connect with Gary's FUB Team on and @garysfubteam To learn more about The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration visit We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts. Please follow for updates, rate & review! For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit Instagram: Facebook: Thank you our sponsor, Zinnia TV. We invite you to use the code GATHER20 for 20% off an annual subscription . /episode/index/show/willgather/id/37971225

The Art of Being Seen: Behind the Scenes of "Familiar Touch" with Sarah Friedland, Kathleen Chalfant, Shaun Rushforth & Jean Owen 05/28/2025

The Art of Being Seen: Behind the Scenes of "Familiar Touch" with Sarah Friedland, Kathleen Chalfant, Shaun Rushforth & Jean Owen Most people think aging is about endings. shows us it’s about beginning again. In this episode, filmmaker Sarah Friedland, actress Kathleen Chalfant, executive director Shaun Rushforth, and resident Jean Owen of , take us behind the scenes of this award-winning film that reimagines aging, dementia, and caregiving through dignity, creativity, and collaboration. A must-listen for family caregivers and senior living advocates. We go behind the scenes of Familiar Touch—filmed at Villa Gardens, a Front Porch Community. What does it mean to open your doors, your story, and your heart to a film crew? How do you protect dignity while embracing creative risk? And what happens when older adults shift from being passive recipients of care to powerful co-creators? We talk about everything: boundaries and trust, storytelling and memory, leadership in senior living, and how art can reimagine what aging and caregiving really look like—rooted in love, dignity, and the belief that every person deserves to be seen and why this film needs to be shared. Familiar Touch gives family caregivers a rare gift: the chance to see their own journey reflected with honesty and grace, reminding them that they are not alone. The small moments of transition. The weight of goodbyes. The quiet strength of starting over. Filmed on location at Villa Gardens in Pasadena with residents as cast and crew, Familiar Touch offers an authentic, collaborative portrayal of aging and caregiving. It premiered at the Venice Film Festival, winning three major awards, and will be released in U.S. theaters on June 20, 2025 by Learn more about the film at Thank you to our sponsors: HeroGeneration empowers caregivers and families by providing innovative resources, education, and support to navigate the challenges of aging and caregiving with confidence and connection. It's free to start. Join now . is a therapeutic dementia care platform that supports caregivers. We invite you to use the code GATHER20 for 20% off an annual subscription . We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts. Please follow for updates, rate & review! For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit /episode/index/show/willgather/id/36755250

Global Innovations in Aging: SilverEco Ageing Well International Festival with Jérôme Pigniez, Founder and President of On-Medio and SilverEco.org 05/22/2025

Global Innovations in Aging: SilverEco Ageing Well International Festival with Jérôme Pigniez, Founder and President of On-Medio and SilverEco.org Last year, I had the privilege of joining as a Jury member, award presenter, and speaker. Meeting changemakers and those that reshaping aging care around the globe brings hope to our future, and we still have work to do! I left inspired by the global momentum to rethink how we support aging populations. Every conversation, every connection, reminded me that “Care and love are universal.” In this episode, I share a glimpse into our time last year and re-share my interview with the founder, Jerome Pigniez. He shares about The SilverNight Awards, and the is an event that unites global leaders to celebrate and advance the cause of aging well. From Paris to Tokyo and now Cannes, this festival has grown to become a gathering for those dedicated to making a difference. This international festival is a premier event that brings together experts, innovators, and passionate individuals from around the world, dedicated to improving the lives of older adults. If you're looking to: Spark meaningful partnerships Inspire and be inspired Elevate your work and your network Deepen your impact alongside global leaders Build global connections across sectors Learn from leading voices in aging and eldercare Showcase or discover innovations making real impact Celebrate those who care—with heart and vision …then SilverEco 2025 is the place to be. If you work in aging, caregiving, agetech, innovation, or healthy longevity—this is your invitation. 🌍 SilverEco & Ageing Well International Festival 2025 📅 October 20–21, 2025 📍 Cannes, France🔗 And yes—submissions are open now for the 2025 SilverEco Awards. Register HERE: Learn more HERE: Thank you to our Sponsors HeroGeneration empowers caregivers and families by providing innovative resources, education, and support to navigate the challenges of aging and caregiving with confidence and connection. It's free to start. Join now . is a therapeutic dementia care platform that supports caregivers. Creating engaging, dementia-friendly video content to reduce anxiety, spark memories, and provide meaningful moments of connection for individuals living with cognitive challenges and their caregivers. We invite you to use the code GATHER20 for 20% off an annual subscription . We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts. Please follow for updates, rate & review! For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit /episode/index/show/willgather/id/36675330

Caregiving Changed Her Life - Now She's Changing Caregiving Through Research with Dr. Francesca Falzarano, PhD, Assistant Professor of Gerontology at the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology 05/14/2025

Permission to Be Seen in Caregiving & Finding Yourself Again with Nikki Nurse, Writer, Wellness Advocate, and Caregiver 05/07/2025

Permission to Be Seen in Caregiving & Finding Yourself Again with Nikki Nurse, Writer, Wellness Advocate, and Caregiver What happens when the roles we’ve known all our lives—daughter, professional, partner—are suddenly eclipsed by one word: caregiver? For so many, caregiving becomes not just a responsibility but an identity. And with that comes the heavy mix of self-sacrifice, emotional resilience, and a quiet grief. But what if there’s another way to see it? What if caregiving could be both a deep act of love and an opportunity to hold onto who we are, to grow, and to even rediscover our power? Today’s guest, Nikki Nurse, spent 12 years as a full-time caregiver for her mom, who lived with early-onset dementia and Alzheimer’s. That journey shaped not only her days but her entire understanding of empathy, resilience, and what it means to care for someone while still caring for yourself. Nikki’s story is one of navigating grief, finding emotional respite, and redefining what sustainable self-care looks like—not as a luxury, but as a lifeline for caregivers. In this conversation, we’ll explore the truth behind caregiving and self-sacrifice, what sustainable self-care really looks like, and why permission to be seen is a radical act for caregivers. Nikki will share how to navigate grief and guilt, set boundaries, and even break the generational patterns that tell us caregiving must mean losing ourselves. Nikki shares how AI can help caregivers by easing the mental load—automating tasks, offering reminders, and creating space for what really matters: being present and caring without burning out. We’ll also talk about reclaiming confidence, embracing resilience, and the small, powerful ways caregivers can give themselves flowers—every day. Follow and connect with Nikki at and follow her . Listen to her podcast with CARE-isma . Thank you to our Sponsors HeroGeneration empowers caregivers and families. It's free to start. Join now . Share your caregiver story is a therapeutic dementia care platform that supports caregivers. We invite you to use the code GATHER20 for 20% off an annual subscription . We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts. Please follow for updates, rate & review! For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit /episode/index/show/willgather/id/36471995

The Emotional Survival Guide for Caregivers: Managing Anxiety, Finding Meaning & Advocating for Change with Barry Jacobs, Psy.D., Clinical Psychologist & Author 04/30/2025

The Emotional Survival Guide for Caregivers: Managing Anxiety, Finding Meaning & Advocating for Change with Barry Jacobs, Psy.D., Clinical Psychologist & Author What caregiving really asks of us—emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. What happens inside us when we’re called to care for someone we love? Beneath the to-do lists and the sleepless nights lives an unspoken truth: caregiving changes us. It can strip us down, reshape our identity, and ask us to find meaning in all of it. In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Barry J. Jacobs—a clinical psychologist, family therapist, and longtime caregiver himself. He’s the author of The Emotional Survival Guide for Caregivers and the upcoming . Barry brings decades of insight into what it really means to show up for others while trying to hold onto yourself. We talk about the emotional toll of caregiving, the guilt that lingers, and the loneliness that can come when no one sees what you’re carrying. Barry shares real, practical ways to manage anxiety, protect your identity, and build resilience. We also explore what a truly supportive healthcare system could look like—and how caregivers can begin to advocate for themselves. This is an episode for anyone in the thick of it, anyone who’s quietly unraveling and rebuilding, and anyone who just needs to hear: you’re not alone. Thank you to our sponsors! HeroGeneration empowers caregivers and families by providing innovative resources, education, and support to navigate the challenges of aging and caregiving with confidence and connection. It's free to start. Join now . Share your caregiving story is a therapeutic dementia care platform that supports caregivers. creates engaging, dementia-friendly video content to reduce anxiety, spark memories, and provide meaningful moments of connection for individuals living with cognitive challenges and their caregivers. We invite you to use the code GATHER20 for 20% off an annual subscription . We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts. Please follow for updates, rate & review! For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit /episode/index/show/willgather/id/36373095

The Truth About Aging: It's Not What You Think with Dr. Charlotte Yeh, MD, FACEP, Thought Leader and Change Agent for Healthy Aging 04/23/2025

What Makes a Senior Living Community the Best? Behind the Ratings with U.S. News & World Report 04/16/2025

What Do We Do When They Say No? Navigating Care Refusals in Dementia with Adria Thompson, Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist & Founder, Be Light Care Consulting 04/09/2025

The Ones We Care For: What They Want Us to Know with the Residents of the Trails of Orono 04/02/2025

The Ones We Care For: What They Want Us to Know with the Residents of the Trails of Orono What if the people we care for had the microphone? What if—before we create another policy, schedule a medication, or make assumptions about what’s “best”—we paused and simply asked: What do you want? How does this feel? What matters most to you today? In a world where caregiving often centers on doing for, we sometimes forget the power of simply being with. This episode is an invitation to slow down and listen to the voices that often go unheard—the ones on the receiving care. Today, I’m sharing a conversation that is deeply personal and one that I've been wanting to have for some time. I sat down with four incredible residents from the Trails of Orono, an assisted living community. Mike D is 88 and carries stories from a rich life full of meaning. Gary J, who just turned 86 on March 30th, brings warmth and wisdom to every word. Marie H celebrated her 103rd birthday on March 27th—yes, 103!—and Lucia A, at 93, offers reflections that are both grounded and generous. These conversations aren't about statistics or systems. They're about humanity—what it feels like to age, to receive care, to be seen, to be missed, to be remembered. You’ll hear about their life, what brings them joy, how they feel well cared for and what it feels like to transition to being cared for. We talk about dignity, loss, autonomy, surprise, and love. And we ask the question at the heart of it all: How can we truly care well for people if we don’t know what they are thinking, feeling, and needing? These voices—Mike, Gary, Marie, and Lucia—are the heartbeat of this episode. It’s my hope that by listening to their stories, we’ll become better listeners, better caregivers, and better humans. Thank you to our Sponsors HeroGeneration empowers caregivers and families by providing innovative resources, education, and support to navigate the challenges of aging and caregiving with confidence and connection. It's free to start. Join now . is a therapeutic dementia care platform that supports caregivers. creates engaging, dementia-friendly video content to reduce anxiety, spark memories, and provide meaningful moments of connection for individuals living with cognitive challenges and their caregivers. We invite you to use the code GATHER20 for 20% off an annual subscription . Please follow for updates, rate & review! For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit /episode/index/show/willgather/id/35968040

Empowering Families to Make Confident Senior Care Choices with Christie Stukenholtz, Co-Founder & CEO of Senior Care Finder 03/26/2025

Empowering Families to Make Confident Senior Care Choices with Christie Stukenholtz, Co-Founder & CEO of Senior Care Finder Thank you to our sponsors and ! What would you do if someone you loved needed care—and the system meant to help only left you feeling more lost? When Christie Stukenholtz set out to find care for her grandmother, she never imagined the overwhelming maze she’d have to navigate. No clear answers. No trusted guide. Just frustration. That experience lit a fire in her—and from it, Senior Care Finder was born. We explore: What families really need when facing senior care decisions How to quickly find trusted care options without the overwhelm The untold burden of the “sandwich generation”—and how to manage it Why transparency and access are reshaping the caregiving landscape Whether you're stepping into a caregiving role or supporting someone who is, this conversation will leave you informed, empowered, and inspired by what’s possible when purpose meets innovation. Thank you to our Sponsors HeroGeneration empowers caregivers and families by providing innovative resources, education, and support to navigate the challenges of aging and caregiving with confidence and connection. It's free to start. Join now . is a therapeutic dementia care platform that supports caregivers. creates engaging, dementia-friendly video content to reduce anxiety, spark memories, and provide meaningful moments of connection for individuals living with cognitive challenges and their caregivers. We invite you to use the code GATHER20 for 20% off an annual subscription . We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts. Please follow for updates, rate & review! For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit /episode/index/show/willgather/id/35856480

Let's Make Caregiving Cool with Norman Harris, Founder and CEO of Comfort Measures Consulting 03/19/2025

Let's Make Caregiving Cool with Norman Harris, Founder and CEO of Comfort Measures Consulting In this episode, we sit down with Norman Harris, a licensed nursing home administrator, founder of Comfort Measures Consulting, and host of The Let’s Get Comfy Podcast. His journey started at just 8 years old, volunteering in nursing homes with his grandmother. Now, he’s on a mission to revolutionize elder care, advocate for caregivers, and inject energy, purpose, and fun into an industry that desperately needs it. Norman shares: ✅ The power of advocacy in healthcare and why caregivers need champions ✅ How to make caregiving “cool” and elevate healthcare professionals as leaders ✅ The challenges families face in senior care—and how to navigate them ✅ His journey from business to finding purpose in care This conversation is for anyone navigating healthcare decisions, working in caregiving, or looking for inspiration on leading with heart. Thank you to our Sponsors HeroGeneration empowers caregivers and families by providing innovative resources, education, and support to navigate the challenges of aging and caregiving with confidence and connection. It's free to start. Join now . is a therapeutic dementia care platform that supports caregivers. creates engaging, dementia-friendly video content to reduce anxiety, spark memories, and provide meaningful moments of connection for individuals living with cognitive challenges and their caregivers. We invite you to use the code GATHER20 for 20% off an annual subscription . We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts. Please follow for updates, rate & review! For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit /episode/index/show/willgather/id/35766505

When Caregiving Finds You with Dr. Shruti Roy & Nicole àBeckett, Founders of HeroGeneration 03/12/2025

When Caregiving Finds You with Dr. Shruti Roy & Nicole àBeckett, Founders of HeroGeneration What happens when the people who raised us, cared for us, and shaped our lives suddenly need us to step in and care for them? For many, caregiving doesn’t arrive as a sudden, clear-cut role—it sneaks in gradually. At first, it's just helping with a few things here and there. Then, one day, you look up and realize you’ve become a caregiver. Today, we’re talking about what it means to step into this role as well as balancing our own lives while ensuring our loved ones receive the care they need. Joining me are two women who know this journey firsthand. Nicole àBeckett spent over eight years as a caregiver for both of her parents—supporting her father through cancer and serving as the primary caregiver for her mother, who battled a debilitating lung disease. She admits that, at the time, she didn’t even recognize herself as a caregiver. It was just what she did for family. Alongside her personal caregiving experience, Nicole is a seasoned tech entrepreneur with two decades of experience in scaling startups. She’s turning that same energy toward solving challenges in caregiving. Dr. Shruti Roy is a mom of three and a pediatrician who has spent years supporting families in emergency and urgent care settings. But when the care of her parents became part of her reality—her father diagnosed with Parkinson’s and her mother managing an autoimmune condition—she quickly realized how broken and unsupported the system is for family caregivers. Like many, she was thrown into the role without a roadmap, and that experience fuels her determination to help others. Today, we’ll talk all about the lessons they’ve learned, the gaps they’re working to fill, and the ways we can all be better prepared for the caregiving road ahead. Caregiving often arrives unnoticed. Nicole àBeckett & Dr. Shruti Roy share personal stories, challenges, and solutions for navigating the caregiver journey. Don't miss this episode and learn how you can find the support you need. Learn more about HeroGeneration Thank you to our Sponsors HeroGeneration empowers caregivers and families by providing innovative resources, education, and support to navigate the challenges of aging and caregiving with confidence and connection. It's free to start. Join now is a therapeutic dementia care platform that supports caregivers. creates engaging, dementia-friendly video content to reduce anxiety, spark memories, and provide meaningful moments of connection for individuals living with cognitive challenges and their caregivers. We invite you to use the code GATHER20 for 20% off an annual subscription . We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts. Please follow for updates, rate & review! For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit /episode/index/show/willgather/id/35638015

Finding Light in the Hardest Moments of Caregiving with Carlos Olivas, Advocate & Caregiver 03/05/2025

Finding Light in the Hardest Moments of Caregiving with Carlos Olivas, Advocate & Caregiver Caregiving is one of the most profound acts of love—but it can also feel isolating, overwhelming, and uncharted. My guest today is , an advocate for Alzheimer’s caregivers and mental health awareness. His journey is deeply personal—rooted in the love and care he provides for his father, who is living with Alzheimer’s. In this episode, we talk about the meaningful layers of caregiving—the mental toll, the lessons in resilience, and the unexpected ways it changes us. We talk about what it means to find strength in community, navigate this journey as a male caregiver, and how art has given both him and his father a way to process, express, and hold onto something real. Carlos has transformed his experience into a mission, serving on California’s Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders Advisory Committee, working with organizations like Caring Across Generations and the Alzheimer’s Association, and using art as a way to foster connection and healing. As a docent at Artbeat Gallery in Sacramento, he proudly shares his father’s artwork. Carlos is also an esteemed member of We Are HFC’s Care Squad, bringing raw honesty, empowerment, and deep empathy to the caregiving community. Carlos’s story is being shared far and wide—he is featured in , premiering on PBS Independent Lens on May 5, offering an intimate look at the emotional and physical toll of caregiving while highlighting the resilience and love that define this experience. He is also featured in Well Beings , a powerful series produced by Bradley Cooper, that brings attention to the lived realities of caregivers. Through storytelling, advocacy, and art, Carlos is making sure that caregivers everywhere feel seen, heard, and supported. Thank you to our Sponsors empowers caregivers and families by providing innovative resources, education, and support to navigate the challenges of aging and caregiving with confidence and connection. It's free to start. Join now . is a therapeutic dementia care platform that supports caregivers. creates engaging, dementia-friendly video content to reduce anxiety, spark memories, and provide meaningful moments of connection for individuals living with cognitive challenges and their caregivers. We invite you to use the code GATHER20 for 20% off an annual subscription . Connect with Carlos via social media, interviews, podcasts and resources: We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts. Please follow for updates, rate & review! For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit /episode/index/show/willgather/id/35543215

Nothing About Us Without Us: Life, Advocacy, and Dementia Dementia Action Alliance Panel 02/26/2025

Nothing About Us Without Us: Life, Advocacy, and Dementia Dementia Action Alliance Panel Thank you to our sponsor, , a therapeutic dementia care platform to support caregivers. We invite you to use the code GATHER20 for 20% off an annual subscription . I have felt called not to speak for others, but to listen, to learn, and to help share the voices that too often go unheard. I want to amplify the voices of those who have lived the experience, who remind us that life doesn’t end with a diagnosis. Through willGather, I’ve been privileged to meet extraordinary people—care partners, advocates, and those living with dementia—who are actively shaping what it means to live with dementia. Their voices, their wisdom, and their experiences matter. I’m drawn to the work of the . Their guiding principle, "Nothing About Us Without Us," isn’t just a phrase—it’s a movement. It’s about listening, about real advocacy, and about making sure that every person living with dementia has a seat at the table. Too often, a diagnosis is handed down like a sentence, with little guidance beyond, "Go home and prepare for the worst." But that’s not the full story. There is another way. A way that prioritizes dignity, advocacy, and community. Today, I’m honored to sit down with a panel of extraordinary individuals who are not only living with dementia but are reshaping the future of how we understand it and who refuse to let their diagnosis define them. Laurie Scherrer, Jack George, Monica Downer, and Tim Perkins each bring a unique perspective—facing the shock of diagnosis, the roller coaster of emotions, and the daily realities of life with dementia. Beyond each of their challenges, they’ve found resilience, purpose, and community. From advocacy work to artistic expression, from research participation to daily problem-solving, their journeys reveal the power of adapting, growing, and redefining what’s possible. So, let’s step into their world, and listen with open hearts. To my panel, thank you for your advocacy and for joining me! To learn more and donate visit: Thank you for supporting and listening to our podcast. Please follow along and subscribe for updates. Visit to learn more about our guests, become a sponsor and connect with us. /episode/index/show/willgather/id/35431865

Spotlight: Gather Darlings with Veronica Shanklin on Caregiving, Burnout & Finding Joy 02/19/2025

Spotlight: Gather Darlings with Veronica Shanklin on Caregiving, Burnout & Finding Joy Today, we're giving you a sneak peek into Gather Darlings, my other podcast with the amazing This space is all about heartfelt conversations, real-life caregiving, and the deep connections that keep us going. In this episode, we sit down with the wonderful Veronica Shanklin, a full-time caregiver and founder of , who is bringing light, love, and community to caregivers. We talk about the realities of caregiving, filming with Kitty Norton, managing burnout, finding balance, and yes—even dating while caregiving! Veronica is a dedicated full-time caregiver who has been taking care of her mom and late grandmother for over a decade. Living her best life in Chicago, she finds herself coming home to visit her mom, who was caring for her grandmother. Discover how her experiences led her to create the non-profit, and bring light and love to younger caregivers while disrupting the space with new ways to bring the community together. We celebrate the spirit of hope and community of Dementia Care Warriors. Listen to how they are creating an open space for education, support, and resources. Join us for this special Gather Darlings episode, and if you love these conversations, make sure to follow along for more! Listen to Gather Darlings . To learn more and donate visit: Listen to our episode HERE. Thank you to our sponsor, , a therapeutic dementia care platform to support caregivers. We invite you to use the code GATHER20 for 20% off an annual subscription . We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts. Please follow for updates, rate & review! For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit /episode/index/show/willgather/id/35342610

Lights, Camera, Caregiving: FTD, Midlife and the Power of Telling Our Story with Katie Prentiss, Actor & Filmmaker 02/12/2025

Lights, Camera, Caregiving: FTD, Midlife and the Power of Telling Our Story with Katie Prentiss, Actor & Filmmaker What if the hardest moments in our lives were also the ones that woke us up the most? What if loss, caregiving, and midlife unraveling weren’t just things to endure but were actually invitations to live more fully? Today, we’re having one of those conversations—the kind that’s raw, real, and full of heart. My guest is Katie Prentiss, an actress, filmmaker, and storyteller who found herself at a crossroads after losing her mother to frontotemporal dementia. That loss sent her into a deep reevaluation of life, leading her to embrace risk, creativity, and the kind of aliveness that only comes from facing the hard stuff head-on. Katie’s journey is one so many of us will recognize—caring for someone we love, navigating grief, and wrestling with the unknown. She talks about the contraction and expansion of life, the fear of genetic illness, and how caregiving shifts our perspective—much like becoming a parent does. Through it all, she’s chosen to create. Her upcoming film, Wake Up, Maggie, is a love letter to caregivers, midlife transformations, and the moments that shake us awake. It’s an honest look at what it means to let go, rebuild, and embrace the messiness of our lives. Today, we talk about what it means to step into the unknown, why telling these stories matters, and how we can support one another in making them heard. Katie’s reflections on fear, creativity, and resilience are deeply moving, and I have no doubt you’ll walk away feeling a little more alive yourself. Thank you, Katie! To learn more visit: Thank you to our sponsor, , a therapeutic dementia care platform to support caregivers. We invite you to use the code GATHER20 for 20% off an annual subscription . We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts. Please follow for updates, rate & review! For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit /episode/index/show/willgather/id/35254950

Amplifying Caregivers of Color: Storytelling, Advocacy, and Building an Inclusive Caregiving Future with Aisha Adkins, MPA, CNP, Founder and Advocate 02/05/2025

Amplifying Caregivers of Color: Storytelling, Advocacy, and Building an Inclusive Caregiving Future with Aisha Adkins, MPA, CNP, Founder and Advocate What happens when caregiving and advocacy collide? When a personal journey turns into a movement? If you’ve ever found yourself navigating the complex world of caregiving—especially as a younger caregiver or a person of color—today’s conversation is for you. Caregiving is often unseen, unrecognized, and undervalued, yet it is the invisible backbone of our communities. And for so many, the experience of caregiving is deeply shaped by systemic barriers, cultural expectations, and a lack of resources. Today, I’m honored to be joined by Aisha Adkins. Aisha is a powerhouse—a caregiver, founder, writer, speaker, and thought leader using media, storytelling, and policy change to shape a more inclusive and equitable care infrastructure. As the founder of the Caregivers of Color Collective and working with , she is amplifying voices that have too often been left out of the conversation. Her versatility spans everything from academic research to real, raw storytelling—making her an important voice in caregiving today. In this episode, we talk about Aisha’s own journey—how stepping into caregiving for her parents reshaped her life and purpose, the unique challenges caregivers of color face, and why storytelling is one of the most powerful tools for change. We’ll explore the intersection of public health, media, and grassroots advocacy and talk about what it means to create community when caregiving feels isolating. Aisha’s passion is contagious, and her insights will leave you thinking about caregiving in a whole new way. Thank you, Aisha, it was a highlight for me to sit down and learn from you! To learn more visit: Thank you to our sponsor, , a therapeutic dementia care platform to support caregivers. We invite you to use the code GATHER20 for 20% off an annual subscription. Sign up We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts. For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit Instagram: Facebook: Nicole Will is our host and founder of willGather. /episode/index/show/willgather/id/35162735

Gratitude, Growth, and New Beginnings: See You in the New Year! 12/25/2024

Reclaiming Health, Confidence, and Independence with Eric Levitan, Founder and CEO of Vivo 12/17/2024

Reclaiming Health, Confidence, and Independence with Eric Levitan, Founder and CEO of Vivo What’s stopping me—or someone I love—from building strength, and how might our lives change if we took that first step? Today’s episode is for anyone who wants to better understand the role that strength, movement, and mindset play in the aging process. As we grow older, we naturally lose muscle, and that quiet decline can impact not only our independence but our overall quality of life. The good news? There’s hope. With the right support and approach, it’s never too late to start building strength—and confidence—again. Our guest today is Eric Levitan, the founder and CEO of . After over 25 years in corporate America, Eric left a successful career in technology to pursue something deeply personal: helping older adults reclaim their vitality through strength training. Inspired by watching his own parents struggle with the effects of aging, Eric set out to create Vivo—a virtual, personalized fitness program that empowers people to move, strengthen, and thrive. Through live, small-group classes, Vivo offers a supportive environment where older adults can overcome fear, build resilience, and rediscover their potential. In our conversation, we talk all about what happens to our muscles as we age, the often-overlooked emotional barriers to exercise—like fear, shame, and judgment—and how breaking through those mental blocks can be transformative. Eric shares his insights on fall prevention, self-compassion, how caregivers can support their loved ones without adding pressure, and how families can participate in classes with their loved ones. If you’re looking for inspiration, practical tools, and a refreshing perspective on aging and movement, this is the episode for you. To learn more visit: Take a class with your loved one! It's a great way to connect. Vivo offers a free, no-obligation trial session to introduce its virtual fitness program designed for older adults. We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts. Please follow for updates, rate & review! For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit /episode/index/show/willgather/id/34486405

A Conversation About Hospice, Caregiving, and Hope with Helen Bauer, BSN RN CHPN, Founder of Hospice Navigation Services & Host of The Heart of Hospice Podcast 12/11/2024

A Conversation About Hospice, Caregiving, and Hope with Helen Bauer, BSN RN CHPN, Founder of Hospice Navigation Services & Host of The Heart of Hospice Podcast How can hospice care help us navigate life’s hardest goodbyes? My guest, Helen Bauer, has spent over 15 years as a hospice nurse, working alongside families and patients during life’s most profound transitions. She’s the voice behind The Heart of Hospice podcast, a platform where she breaks down the complexities of hospice care and grief with compassion and clarity. Beyond her podcast, Helen is the owner of Hospice Navigation Services, where she offers guidance to families making difficult end-of-life decisions. Helen also brings a personal perspective as a caregiver for her 91-year-old mother, bringing together her professional expertise and personal experience to help others face end-of-life care. In today’s episode, Helen shares her caregiving journey, we talk about the misconceptions about hospice, and discuss how to start those hard conversations about end-of-life care. We also discuss finding balance as a caregiver, navigating grief, and the wisdom Helen has gained from walking this path herself. Whether you’re a caregiver, a healthcare professional, or someone looking to understand hospice care, this conversation will leave you feeling informed, empowered, and deeply connected to the humanity of this work. Thank you, Helen, for your important work! Follow and connect with Helen HERE: We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts. Please follow for updates, rate & review! For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit /episode/index/show/willgather/id/34259100

Behind the Rankings: Uncovering What Makes a Nursing Home the Best with Zach Adams, Senior Health Data Engineer at U.S. News & World Report 12/02/2024

Behind the Rankings: Uncovering What Makes a Nursing Home the Best with Zach Adams, Senior Health Data Engineer at U.S. News & World Report What makes a nursing home one of the best? One in five U.S. nursing homes rated as “Best.” The 2025 evaluation features ratings of nearly 15,000 U.S. nursing homes. Behind those rankings that guide countless families in making life-changing decisions, there’s a blend of rigorous analysis, dedication, and a commitment to quality care. Today, we’re pulling back the curtain on that process and diving into the story of someone who helps shape these crucial decisions. My guest is Zach Adams, a Senior Health Data Engineer at U.S. News & World Report. Zach has become a leading force, along with his team, behind the Best Nursing Homes, Best Senior Living ratings and more. His expertise in advanced statistical modeling and data analysis ensures these rankings are more than just numbers—they’re a lifeline for families navigating the complexities of healthcare. Zach’s academic background in public health and epidemiology, along with his passion for improving senior care, makes him the perfect guide through this complicated landscape. In this episode, we’ll talk about what makes a nursing home great, how the data is captured, the differences between short-term and long-term care, and how families can use these ratings to find the best fit for their loved ones and much more. Zach also sheds light on broader trends, like the critical staffing challenges many communities face and the role of technology in shaping the future of care. Whether you’re seeking answers for today or inspiration for tomorrow, this conversation promises to be as insightful as it is empowering. Thank you so much for your insight, Zach! I'm looking forward to talking about Senior Living next time! Learn more HERE: U.S. News & World Report's We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts. Please follow for updates, rate & review! For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit /episode/index/show/willgather/id/34246730

Embrace Aging with Optimism and Purpose with Garry Cole, Author of “Are We Old Yet?” 11/20/2024

Embrace Aging with Optimism and Purpose with Garry Cole, Author of “Are We Old Yet?” “Are we old yet?” Today’s guest, Garry Cole, invites us to reframe that question—not as something to fear, but as an opportunity to embrace the journey of aging with optimism, curiosity, and humor. Aging is inevitable, but the way we approach it is entirely up to us. What if growing older wasn’t something to dread but a chance to discover, reflect, and prepare for what’s ahead? Garry is not a scientist or gerontologist. He’s simply a guy walking the same path as the rest of us. In his book Are We Old Yet?, Garry blends scientific insights, personal memories, and a touch of nostalgia to create a conversation we all need to have. From exploring the science of why we age to discovering the secrets of the Blue Zones, Garry tackles aging with warmth and wit. With 35 engaging chapters, he walks us through everything from the search for the "fountain of youth" to the challenge of redefining who we are in retirement. It’s a thoughtful guide to living a happy, healthy, and purposeful life—filled with stories, insights, and just enough humor to make you smile. Join us for a heartfelt conversation about what it means to age well. We’ll explore Garry’s unique perspective on preparing for the future while cherishing the past, all with a focus on finding joy in the moment. Whether you’re feeling the weight of aging or looking for inspiration to live your best life, this episode is for you. Thank you, Garry, for the uplightling conversation! Learn more HERE: We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts. Please follow for updates, rate & review! For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit /episode/index/show/willgather/id/34034010

Finding Strength, Surrender, and Self-Compassion as a Caregiver with Andrea Hughes, Author, Caregiver & Advocate 11/13/2024

Finding Strength, Surrender, and Self-Compassion as a Caregiver with Andrea Hughes, Author, Caregiver & Advocate Andrea Hughes story is a powerful reminder of how much caregivers give and how little they often keep for themselves. As a caregiver for her mom living with Alzheimer's, she’s made it her mission to shift the narrative—to show that caring for others doesn’t have to come at the expense of our own well-being. Her approach blends personal experiences, sharing vulnerability so others know they are not alone, and her own unique way of redefining self-care. Andrea believes deeply in the power of surrender, letting go of control, and finding peace in the present, lessons she’s lived out in her own journey with her family. Her work inspires caregivers to lean into their emotions, release guilt, and rediscover what it means to be resilient. In our conversation, Andrea shares her approach to healing, how she navigates the emotional complexities of caregiving, and why she believes community is essential for resilience. Through her work, she encourages caregivers to embrace vulnerability, process their emotions, and redefine what it means to be strong. Andrea believes that caring for others must also include caring for oneself, a lesson she’s learned in the most heartfelt and sometimes heart-wrenching ways. Whether you’re a caregiver or simply seeking inspiration on how to care for your soul, she shares her wisdom, from navigating grief and loss to finding joy and peace even amid the most challenging times. Thank you my friend for being present with me in this conversation. So much love for you. Follow and connect with Andrea HERE: Through her daily journal prompts, writing, and insights, she encourages caregivers and older adults to find strength in their vulnerability and make space for healing. Buy caregiver journal prompts HERE: Instagram: We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts. Please follow for updates, rate & review! For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit /episode/index/show/willgather/id/33892002

Navigating the World with Your Aging Loved One

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