The Caretaker's Journey

Summary: In this episode, Dr. Allan Gates and host Carole Leathem discuss mental illness from a Christian perspective, specifically focusing on the role of the church. They address the challenges of talking about mental illness in the church and the stigma associated with it. They also explore the high prevalence of mental health issues among pastors and the unrealistic expectations placed on them...

Summary: In this episode, Dr. Allan Gates and Carole Leathem discuss the challenges and experiences of being a caretaker for someone with mental illness. They emphasize the importance of self-care for caretakers and the need for a support system. They also touch on the topic of finding the right therapist and the different types of mental health professionals. The conversation highlights the need...

Summary: In this episode, host Carole interviews Dr. Allan Gates, a mental health professional, about mental illness from a Christian perspective. They discuss the definition of mental illness, the difference between mental health and mental illness, and the causes of mental illness, including genetics, biology, psychological trauma, and life trauma. They also touch on the importance of self-care...

Summary: In this episode, host Carole Leathem interviews Emilee Kurt, whose mother is battling cancer. Emilee shares her experience of her mother's cancer diagnosis and the impact it has had on her life. She discusses the initial shock and the journey of navigating treatments and seeking second opinions. Emilee emphasizes the importance of self-care and finding support from friends and communi...

Summary: In this episode, host Carole Leathem interviews Jen Babakhan, author of the book 'Disrupted: Finding Peace with a Parent's Terminal Illness.' Jen shares her personal experience of her mother's terminal illness and how it turned her world upside down. She talks about the importance of finding strength in Jesus and relying on His presence during difficult times. Jen also dis...

Summary: In this episode, Carole Leathem shares the story of her friend Melissa, who battled cancer with unwavering faith and joy. Melissa's infectious smile and giggle brightened every room she entered. Despite her illness, she continued to serve and love others, using her cancer as an opportunity to point people to Jesus. Melissa's favorite scripture was Habakkuk 3:17-19, which speaks of...

Summary: In this episode, host Carole Leathem interviews bestselling author Xochitl Dixon about her children's book 'What Color is God's Love?' The book celebrates diversity and inclusion and aims to teach children about God's love through colors. Xochitl shares her personal journey and how her service dog, Callie, inspired her to write the book. The book uses rhymes and illust...

Summary In this episode, host Carole Leathem interviews Nichole Suvar about her experience with anxiety. Nichole shares her journey of living with undiagnosed anxiety and how getting a diagnosis helped her understand and address her struggles. She also discusses her ministry, The Intentional Life, which encourages people to intentionally seek out Jesus in every area of their lives. The conversatio...

Summary: Susan Neal, an RN and health coach, shares her journey of reclaiming her health and ideal weight after experiencing multiple health issues. She emphasizes the importance of healthy eating and stress management for caretakers. Susan provides practical tips such as drinking water before eating, engaging in forest bathing or earthing, and finding moments of self-care. She also highlights the...

Summary: In this episode, Carole and Liz discuss the topic of tears and how they affect our lives. They explore the different types of tears and their benefits, including regulating the nervous system, relieving physical and emotional pain, gaining support from others, and promoting emotional release and healing. They also touch on the importance of seeking help if crying becomes excessive or if o...

Summary: In this episode, Carole shares her personal caretaking journey for her mother in Milwaukee. She discusses the challenges of making difficult decisions and navigating the healthcare system. She also explores the process of grieving and coming to terms with the loss of her mother's independence. Carole emphasizes the importance of listening, asking the right questions, and being patient...

Summary: In this episode, Carole shares her recent caretaking journey for her mother. She discusses the challenges she faced, the sacrifices she made, and the importance of having a willing spirit. Carole emphasizes the need to let go of expectations, be flexible, and serve others. She also highlights the significance of self-care and finding moments of joy amidst the difficulties of caretaking. T...

Summary: In this episode of the Caretakers Journey podcast, host Carole Leathem explores the topic of laughter with her special guest, Caleb Leathem. They discuss the definition of laughter and its importance in everyday life. They also delve into the healing power of laughter, its ability to bond people together, and its role in relieving stress. Caleb shares some favorite jokes and funny stories...

Summary: TC and Danielle Chambers, a married singing and songwriting duo, discuss the power of music in the caretaker's journey. They share their experiences as worship leaders and the role of music in their daily lives. The conversation explores how music can provide comfort and solace in times of distress, and the healing power of music therapy. The importance of corporate worship and the co...

Summary: In this episode, Virginia Grounds shares her caretaking journey and how it inspired her book 'Guide to Deeper Prayer.' She emphasizes the importance of finding strength in God's Word and having a spiritual foundation as a caretaker. Virginia also provides practical tips for caretakers, such as seeking solutions, staying organized, and taking care of oneself. She discusses the...

Summary: In this episode, host Carole interviews Diala Hillberg, a busy mom and educator, about her journey as a caretaker. Diala shares her experiences raising three children, including her special needs son Luca. She discusses the challenges and joys of parenting a child with a genetic syndrome called DYRK1A. Diala also talks about the importance of finding a supportive community of parents faci...

Summary: In this episode, host Carole Leathem interviews Donna Jones about healthy conflict. They discuss the impact of conflict on caretakers and how to deal with conflict in a healthy way. Donna emphasizes the importance of taking one conflict at a time and understanding and listening to the care receiver. They also explore the challenges of conflict with aging parents and siblings, as well as c...

Summary: In this conversation, Mary Demuth discusses the importance of reading the Bible in a condensed period of time, such as the 90-day Bible reading challenge. She highlights how this practice allows readers to see the grand narrative themes of the Bible and make connections between the Old and New Testaments. Mary also emphasizes the power of scripture in bringing healing and hope, especially...

Summary: In this episode, Heather Brown and Carole discuss the importance of finding balance as a caretaker. They explore the parallel lives of caretakers with young children and those caring for older adults. Heather shares practical tips for setting up the day for success, including taking mini resets throughout the day. They also discuss the benefits of going outside and connecting with nature....

Summary: Anita McVey discusses the importance of food as a love language and the impact of fast food culture. She emphasizes the transformative power of meals and the value of family time and meal sharing. Anita shares her personal experiences and memories connected to food and highlights the significance of creating special moments with food. She also explores the connection between food and Bibl...

Summary: Dr. Kennita Williams, a leadership wellness expert, discusses the importance of managing emotions and finding balance in leadership. She shares her journey of starting Clear Vision, a platform that helps leaders embrace authenticity and deal with their emotions. Dr. Williams emphasizes the impact of emotional balance on the overall health of an organization and provides practical tips for...

Summary: In this episode, Pastor Jack Leathem discusses the topic of prayer and how he teaches students to pray. He emphasizes the importance of surrendering control to God and understanding that prayer is a conversation with Him. Pastor Jack also addresses the question of how to pray when it seems like God may not change the circumstances. He shares personal stories and examples to illustrate the...

Summary In this episode, Carole and Rebecca discuss the birth of the Caretaker's Journey podcast and Carole's personal journey as a caretaker. They explore the importance of finding joy in the midst of challenges and the need for self-care. They also discuss the four core values of caretaking: spiritual, emotional, physical, and mental. The episode concludes with closing remarks and encour...

Summary: The Caretakers Journey podcast is introduced highlighting the importance of supporting and bringing awareness to caretakers.  The definition of a caretaker is explored including the various roles and responsibilities they may have. The concept of caretaker burnout is discussed emphasizing the need for caretakers to prioritize self-care.  The role of faith and spirituality in providing str...