CareLab

What if AI could give caregivers and families the one thing they never have enough of—time? In this episode of CareLab, we talk with David Banes, global expert in assistive technology and chair of the Equitable AI Alliance. Together we explore how AI is being used to support independence for people with disabilities and older adults. From smart home tools and predictive routines to visual recognit...

For many caregivers, the hardest part isn’t the time or emotional labor—it’s the money. In this episode of CareLab, we sit down with financial advisor  Jennifer Lee , founder of Modern Wealth, to talk about the real financial impact of caregiving. From navigating long-term care and protecting your assets to avoiding common estate planning mistakes, Jennifer shares smart, doable steps to help you p...

What if hand tremors didn’t mean giving up your independence? In this episode of CareLab, we talk with Emil Namy, co-founder of Steadiwear, about how their groundbreaking wearable technology is helping people with essential tremor and Parkinson’s regain control of their daily lives. Discover how it works, who it’s for, and how it’s already changing lives—without batteries, meds, or surgery. Resour...

Being a caregiver is hard—even when you're trained to do it. In this episode of CareLab, occupational therapist Consuela Marshall shares her raw and personal story of becoming a caregiver for her own mother. She opens up about caregiver burnout, unrealistic expectations, generational caregiving, and how she finally found balance by redefining what caregiving meant to her. If you’ve ever felt l...

Is AI the future of caregiving—or just a flashy shortcut? In this candid episode of CareLab, Brandy and Amelia unpack the latest trends in AI and elder care—from motion sensors and voice assistants to robotic companions. You’ll hear what works, where ethical lines get blurry, and why some things just can’t be replaced by a machine. Resources Mentioned: Explore smarter care navigation:  https://mee...

Are your supplements actually helping—or just expensive hype? In this episode of CareLab, pharmacist  Dr. Rashma Patel  breaks down the confusing world of vitamins, herbs, and over-the-counter powders. You'll learn what’s safe, what to avoid, how supplements interact with medications, and how to spot misinformation. If you’ve ever taken turmeric, collagen, magnesium, or multivitamins—this one’...

What happens when the love of your life no longer remembers you? In this powerful episode of CareLab, former Wisconsin Governor Martin Schreiber opens up about his journey caring for his wife Elaine through Alzheimer’s. With warmth, humor, and vulnerability, he shares lessons from his book My Two Elaines, including how to let go, when to ask for help, and why therapeutic fibbing can be an act of l...

In this episode of CareLab, occupational therapist turned travel entrepreneur Amberlee Wiese shares how accessible travel planning can empower families with medical or mobility needs. From managing invisible disabilities to creating joyful experiences, she explains how the right supports can make meaningful adventures possible—without leaving caregivers behind. Resources Mentioned: Learn more or b...

What is the role of physical strength in caregiving and overall health? Don DeQuine, a physical therapist, shares his journey and insights on the importance of strength training for older adults. He emphasizes the need for caregivers to prioritize their health while managing their responsibilities. The conversation covers practical strategies, including the 12 key movements for strength, the diffe...

How can a caregiver go from feeling powerless to becoming confident partners in care? Amanda Glassburner shares her journey from caregiver to occupational therapy assistant, emphasizing the importance of empowering both patients and caregivers through therapeutic activities. The conversation highlights the significance of allowing patients to struggle for their independence while also providing ca...

In this episode of CareLab, we hear a mother's incredible story of resilience, hope, and the relentless pursuit of a cure for her daughter. Amber Olson shares her profound journey as a caregiver for her daughter Willow, who was diagnosed with multiple sulfatase deficiency (MSD), a rare and fatal genetic condition. Amber discusses the emotional and physical toll of caregiving, the challenges of...

In this episode of CareLab, hosts Brandy Archie and Emilia Bourland welcome Helen Bauer, a seasoned hospice nurse, to discuss the critical differences between palliative care and hospice, the importance of early intervention, and how to navigate the complexities of end-of-life care. They explore common misconceptions, explain who qualifies for these services, and why education and advocacy are ess...

In this conversation, guest Allyson Schrier shares her profound journey as a caregiver for her husband diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia. She discusses the emotional complexities of caregiving, the challenges of navigating family dynamics, and the importance of finding appropriate care for dementia patients. Through her experiences, Allyson highlights the need for better understanding and sup...

In this episode of CareLab, hosts Brandy Archie and Emilia Bourland welcome Harry S. Campbell, a seasoned business executive who shares his powerful and emotional story of becoming a caregiver for his wife after her diagnosis with a malignant brain tumor. He opens up about the shift from leading major corporations to leading with empathy and resilience at home, the lessons caregiving has taught hi...

Dr. Marcia Neville, Ph. D. joins CareLab to explain what actually happens to our brains as we get older. She breaks down normal cognitive changes vs. early signs of decline, the surprising link between hormones and memory, and how socializing might be the most important brain exercise you’re skipping. Whether you’re aging yourself or caring for someone who is, this episode offers science-backed wa...

Josh Protas, Chief Advocacy and Policy Officer at Meals on Wheels America, joins CareLab to break down the life-saving impact of food delivery for older adults. From social isolation to policy threats, this conversation dives into why senior nutrition services matter — and what’s at stake if we don’t act. Whether you're a caregiver, policymaker, or just someone who cares, this episode will ope...

In this episode of CareLab, Brandy Archie and Emilia Bourland welcome occupational therapist Noelle Guidry to explore how people with low vision can regain function and confidence. They unpack the causes of low vision, practical tools that make everyday tasks possible again, and the unique role of occupational therapy in tailoring solutions for individuals. From meal prep and reading to technology...

In this episode of CareLab, Brandy Archie and Emilia Bourland dig into the overlooked realities of home health care. They share personal stories and expert advice about how early action, daily monitoring, and understanding your body’s signals can help you avoid emergency room visits. From managing congestive heart failure to recognizing red flags like swelling, shortness of breath, and high blood...

Music can reach where words cannot. In this episode, board-certified music therapist Tara Jenkins joins Care Lab to explore how music therapy activates the brain, soothes the soul, and transforms dementia care. From clinical insights to everyday tips for caregivers, learn how music builds bridges between memory and meaning. Resources: Tara Jenkins’ Website: https://www.harmonyindementia.com Tara o...

Will you wait for a fall to make your bathroom safe — or take control now? In this bold episode of Care Lab, Emilia Bourland and Brandy Archie reunite with Maria Lindbergh to rip the cover off what most people don't want to think about: how your home can quietly become dangerous without you even realizing it. They dive deep into the emotional weight of bathroom safety — why grab bars aren’t ju...

How do you juggle raising kids, supporting aging parents, and keeping your financial future on track? In this episode, financial planner Tom Kaminski dives into the real challenges of the sandwich generation — and how smart financial planning can ease the pressure. From setting goals to navigating tough family conversations, Tom shares actionable tips for reducing financial stress and planning acr...

What does it really take to care for a loved one with Alzheimer's — and still care for yourself? In this heartfelt episode of Care Lab, Brandy and Emilia sit down with caregiver and advocate Jessica Guthrie to unpack the real, often unseen journey of family caregiving. Jessica opens up about caring for her mother with Alzheimer’s for over a decade, offering raw insight into the emotional, ment...

In this Care Lab episode, Brandy and Emilia sit down with occupational therapist turned real estate agent, Ashley Mahoney, to explore how healthcare meets housing. What happens when someone trained in accessibility, safety, and quality of life helps you buy your next home? They dig into the realities of buying or selling a home when you’re planning to age in place or accommodate changing health ne...

What really happens when 20,000 people are cut from the Department of Health & Human Services? In this episode of Care Lab, Brandy and Emilia unpack major changes in our healthcare system—and why you should care. From Meals on Wheels to Medicare, they explain what HHS actually does, which programs are at risk, and how these cuts could affect your health, your family, and your future. Whether y...

What if our deepest wounds aren’t physical, but spiritual? In this powerful conversation, we explore the concept of Soul Injury—a disconnection from your true self, often rooted in grief, guilt, trauma, and fear. With decades of insight from hospice care and veteran support, this episode dives into the emotional and spiritual healing we often overlook in traditional care conversations. We unpack h...