CareLab

What does a "good death" look like—and how can we better support others in reaching it? In this episode of CareLab, Brandy and Emilia sit down with death doula Chad Flores to talk about what end-of-life support really means. From family dynamics and fear of talking about death to the difference between hospice and doula care, Chad brings deep wisdom to a topic most people avoid. This is...

What's the real deal with supplements? Should we take them, are they safe, and how can we tell? In this episode of CareLab, pharmacist Dr. Reshma Kapadia Patel shares essential insights on the world of supplements, helping you navigate the facts and avoid common pitfalls. We explore the hidden dangers of overusing supplements, how to determine if a supplement is safe and effective, and the lac...

Therapeutic fibbing, touching hearts, and "Excuse me, does this plane land in Detroit?" Former Wisconsin Governor Martin Schreiber shares a heartfelt and humorous perspective on caregiving, reflecting on his journey with his late wife, Elaine, through Alzheimer's. This episode is a must-listen for caregivers navigating the complexities of dementia, offering wisdom, practical advice,...

What really separates physical therapy (PT) from occupational therapy (OT)? In this episode of CareLab, Emilia and Brandy bust the myth that PT and OT are basically the same thing. They break down what each profession actually does, why they overlap (but aren’t interchangeable), and how speech therapy fits into the rehab picture too. Plus, you’ll learn how therapy looks at different levels of care...

What’s your go-to karaoke song? Share it in the comments—then tune in to hear how Sarah Dillingham is reshaping arthritis care with stylish, effective compression gloves and wrist braces. In this CareLab episode, we explore how Sarah’s personal journey with rheumatoid arthritis inspired her to launch Grace & Able, a brand that combines fashion and function to reduce stigma and improve pain man...

If you or someone you love has experienced a stroke, this episode is essential listening. Guest Lori Williams shares the powerful story of her husband’s stroke on Christmas Day and the journey they’ve been on since—from missteps in emergency care to navigating long-term neuro rehab, home modifications, disability benefits, and beyond. This conversation is packed with practical insight, powerful re...

In this episode of CareLab, Brandy and Emilia talk with Nicole Cuervo, founder of Springrose, about how something as simple as a bra can restore confidence, independence, and dignity. They explore how inclusive design is about more than functionality—it's about honoring people’s bodies and choices, especially when living with limited mobility or disability. From adaptive fashion to the emotion...

We all know the “I’ve fallen and I can’t get up” commercial — but what if technology could do more than just react? In this episode, Brandy and Emilia sit down with Dan Josebachvili, founder of SilverTree, to talk about how thoughtful design and wearable tech are reshaping safety, confidence, and independence for older adults. They explore the connection between dignity and adoption, how caregiver...

\Is it time to rework your caregiving routine? In this episode, Brandy and Emilia talk with Elizabeth Miller of Happy Healthy Caregiver about how seasonal shifts—like back-to-school and the holidays—can be used as a reset point for overwhelmed caregivers. Elizabeth shares real-life strategies for managing guilt, simplifying holiday stress, setting boundaries, and getting the whole family involved...

Not all self-care is created equal. In this episode, Brandy and Emilia sit down with certified senior advisor and author Dannelle LeBlanc to talk about the self-care practices we love (and hate), what it really means to complete the stress cycle, and how chronic illness often shows up in caregiving. Dannelle also shares her deeply personal wellness journey—including years of unexplainable symptoms...

You’ve heard the advice: “Install carpet so falls are softer,” “Think about aging in place when you’re older,” or “If you’ve got one floor, you’re good.” In this episode, Brandy and Emilia break down the most common aging-in-place myths—and explain why they might be doing more harm than good. Whether you're planning for yourself or supporting someone you love, this episode is full of practical...

If you think life insurance is only for the wealthy—or only useful after you’re gone—this episode will change your mind. Brandy and Emilia sit down with Chris Hotchkiss, a seasoned insurance agent, to break down how life insurance really works, how it can support aging in place, and why waiting to buy a policy could cost more than you think. They also kick off with a fun discussion about skills th...

Medications can save lives—but are we leaning on them too much? Dr. Reshma Kapadia joins us to unpack what pharmacists actually do, how overprescribing happens, and why deprescribing should be part of every care conversation. We also talk about how food, timing, and honest education can change your health more than you might expect. Whether you’re managing medications for yourself or someone you l...

What if retirement wasn’t the end of work, but the beginning of purpose? In this episode, caregiving expert and senior living advocate Michele Magner joins us to explore meaningful aging, the stages of caregiving, and how community—whether a retirement commune or memory care—can help us live (and love) better. With honest stories and deeply practical insight, Michele invites us to rethink what gro...

Would your family know what medical choices to make for you if you couldn’t speak for yourself? ER physician and dementia advocate Dr. Brittany Lamb joins us to talk about why these decisions can’t wait, the difference between care planning and directives, and how to start the conversation—without fear. Plus, we debate whether smartphones are a tool or a trap Resources:Dr. Brittany Lamb: www.blamb...

Grab bars are the go-to for bathroom safety—but are they always the best solution? Brandy and Emilia break down when to use grab bars, what to avoid (suction cups, anyone?), and smart alternatives that actually work. Whether you're aging in place or helping someone else, this episode covers real talk and real tools for building safe, functional spaces. Resources:AskSAMIE Adaptive Equipment &am...

The 4th of July can be a time of joy, but for someone living with dementia, fireworks can feel terrifying. In this episode, Brandy and Emilia break down how loud, unexpected sounds can trigger fear, anxiety, and confusion—and what caregivers can do in the moment to help. From recognizing signs of distress to creating sensory-friendly environments, they’ll walk through real strategies grounded in t...

Hospice isn’t about giving up. In fact, it’s one of the most compassionate and supportive types of care available—yet so many people only learn that after it’s too late. In this CareLab episode, we sit down with Helen Bauer, hospice nurse and host of The Heart of Hospice, to talk about what hospice care actually is, what it’s not, and why so many families say “I wish we had known sooner.” From cle...

Consuela Marshall—longtime occupational therapist and family caregiver—joins Brandy and Emilia to share how even seasoned professionals can get overwhelmed by caregiving. Together, they unpack what it means to set boundaries, how to balance family dynamics, and why our healthcare system needs real change to support caregivers. From morning bath conflicts to advocating for legislative fixes, this e...

Ever been shocked to learn your insurance won’t pay for a shower chair—but will pay tens of thousands after a fall? In this episode, Brandy and Emilia break down what insurance actually covers, what it doesn’t, and how to make the most of your benefits when it comes to equipment, therapy, and care at home. They share real-world tips on how to navigate Medicare and Medicare Advantage, get therapy s...

Even healthcare professionals have their “nope” moments (we’re looking at you, mucus). But once we move past the gag reflex, it’s all about preparation. In this episode, Emilia and Brandy talk through the real-life logistics of getting your home ready when a loved one is coming back from the hospital or rehab. From adaptive equipment and environment hacks to emotional prep and realistic timelines,...

Ever wonder why senior care costs so much—and why no one talks about it until it's too late? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Kimberly Whiter from Elder Care Solutions to break down the real reasons behind the financial strain, what Medicare actually covers, and how to prepare for long-term care before crisis hits. Resources:Equipment & Home Solutions: https://www.asksamie.comCaregive...

Not all adaptive equipment is created equal. In this episode, occupational therapists Brandy and Emilia reveal the worst products they see clients wasting money on—like walk-in tubs, suction cup grab bars, and certain lift chairs. These pieces are often sold as “solutions” but can actually lead to increased risk, cost, and frustration. The hosts break down why these products don’t work for most pe...

What if boundaries aren’t walls at all? In this episode, trauma-informed therapist Lisa Kendall joins Brandy and Emilia to unpack the misunderstood concept of caregiver boundaries. They explore flexible, science-based ways to set boundaries that actually work—without guilt or burnout. Plus, they talk about the emotional baggage caregivers carry, why it’s never too late to change, and how to define...

What makes a “good” power of attorney? How do you talk to your family about end-of-life care? In this episode, attorney Rusty Fracassa joins Emilia and Brandy to unpack the essentials of estate planning. From real talk about who gets what, to how to make tough decisions easier for your loved ones, this conversation is equal parts wisdom, warmth, and practical advice. Whether you're a caregiver...