Parenting UP! Caregiving adventures with comedian J Smiles
101 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 17 hours ago -Get engulfed in the intense journey of a caregiver who happens to be a comedian. J Smiles use of levity reveals the stress and rewards of caregiving interwoven with her own personal journey. Over 10 years ago, she was catapulted into caregiving overnight when the shock of her dad's death pushed her mom into Alzheimer's in the blink of an eye. A natural storyteller, her vivid descriptions and impressive recall will place you squarely in each moment of truth, at each fork in the road. She was a single, childless mechanical engineering, product designing, lawyer living a meticulously crafted international existence until she wasn't. The lifestyle shift was immediate. Starting from scratch, she painstakingly carved out useful knowledge and created a beneficial care plan for her mom. J Smiles will fly solo and have expert guests. You will get tips, tricks, trends and TRUTH. Alzheimer's is heavy, we don’t have to be. All caregivers are welcome to snuggle up, Parent Up!
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Episodes
Caregiver Protection: Tips From An Expert
April 28, 2024 14:00 - 52 minutes - 35.8 MBWhen I began the caretaking journey for my mom, I was not prepared for the twists and turns ahead. Now, with caregiving expert Pamela D. Wilson by our side, we unravel the complexities and joys of caring for those we love. Pamela's personal and professional experiences, including courtrooms and care facilities, serve as the backdrop for our conversation, bringing to light the skills and resilience it takes to navigate this path. The medical system can be daunting, but together, we dissect t...
Stress Relief for Caregivers Through Yoga Therapy
April 14, 2024 11:00 - 41 minutes - 28.7 MBAs our guest Jennie Lee navigated the complex and emotional path of caring for her mother through her battle with brain cancer, she discovered that the ancient wisdom of yoga therapy held a beacon of light amidst the chaos. This episode features Jennie Lee, a seasoned yoga therapist, who brings her expertise and heartwarming personal narrative to our discussion. Together, we explore the ways yoga therapy intertwines with traditional therapy to serve as a powerful tool for stress relief, espe...
The Truth about Diabetes and Dementia
March 24, 2024 14:00 - 48 minutes - 33.3 MBNavigating the range of emotions and decisions that come with caregiving, I found myself sharing the profound responsibility of caring for my mother as her memories began to fade into the shadows of dementia. Timothy Poore's mom also has dementia. It was a journey instigated by the silent toll of type 2 diabetes, a reality many are unaware of until it hits home. This episode is not just a sharing of his stories, but a conversation that brings to light the critical aspects of Alzheimer's awar...
A Simple Solution For Stress: A Conversation with Christian Yordanov
March 10, 2024 13:00 - 41 minutes - 28.6 MBStress is daunting, lurking in the shadows of our daily lives, from the innocent years on the playground to the relentless pressures of adulthood. Our latest conversation unpacks this challenge, laying out an arsenal of strategies to keep it at bay. We zero in on Pregnenolone, a supplement that may well be the best-kept secret for combating stress, as Christian recounts his encounters with this aid during sleep-deprived nights as a new father. The episode promises not just tales of struggle ...
Caring For Parents Who Didn't Care
February 25, 2024 22:00 - 29 minutes - 20.1 MBYou spoke and we listened. What happens when you are asked to care for a parent who didn't care for you? Our latest episode courageously exposes the underbelly of a home in turmoil, exploring the raw and often concealed struggles that families endure. J's vulnerability in sharing her own experiences with us sheds light on the complexities and painful realities of harsh familial ties. From hard words to the brink of collapse, this episode is a journey through the battlefield of a home divided...
Ash Said It: Never Give Up!
February 11, 2024 15:00 - 1 hour - 62.2 MBAs we navigate the unpredictable currents of life, our paths can shift in an instant, leaving us with roles we never expected to fill. Our remarkable guest, Ash Brown, shares her heart-wrenching yet inspiring journey from ticking off life's checkboxes to assuming the mantle of caregiver for her grandfather, sister and mom. Ash's raw and honest account reveals the profound resilience and humor that emerge in the face of addiction, health crises, and the various responsibilities thrust upon ca...
Focus on Humans, Not Systems: A Conversation with Michaell
January 28, 2024 15:00 - 40 minutes - 28 MBEvery so often, we stumble upon a story that not only challenges our perception of the world but also offers a profound lesson in resilience. Michaell's journey is one such tale. Struggling with dysgraphia and dyslexia, Michaell's path was far from conventional. Yet, this remarkable individual has authored six books and evolved into an artist whose work transcends traditional boundaries. Throughout this episode, we delve into the world of neurodiversity, where Michaell's story acts as a call...
Boosting Joy: A Conversation with Eunice Sykes
January 14, 2024 19:00 - 44 minutes - 30.6 MBWhen love is rekindled and a family is beautifully blended, the heart sings a tune of joy – until a shadow, quiet and unassuming, threatens to mute the melody. That's where our guest's story begins, with a love so bright against the creeping dusk of Alzheimer's. Our guest, Eunice Sykes, joins me in sharing the raw and honest paths of caregiving, emphasizing the bittersweet symphony of cherishing the sparks of joy while navigating the fog of cognitive decline. Life's unpredictability never c...
Did My Mama Play Me?!
December 24, 2023 14:00 - 30 minutes - 20.7 MBEvery caregiver has their Everest, and for me, it was trying to create that perfect TV moment with my mom, Zetty. As she battles advanced Alzheimer's, I balance the unpredictable world of caregiving with my role as a comedian and podcaster. This episode is a raw and humorous recount of our attempt to watch my television appearance together—a plan thwarted by caregiving surprises and Zetty's own schedule. But there's a silver lining in the form of a recorded show waiting for us, a reminder th...
Finding A Greater Purpose: A Conversation with Andrew
December 10, 2023 15:00 - 1 hour - 41.4 MBEver been blindsided by life's cruel surprises? Andrew sure has. A brain aneurysm hit him out of nowhere--at the airport! This episode takes you on a journey as we learn about Andrew's fight for survival, and his journey to redefine himself in the face of adversity. From a successful teacher and soon-to-be author to a full-time caregiver for his mother diagnosed with ALS, Andrew's story is one of resilience and the unwavering human spirit. He paints a vivid picture of the terrifying trip to...
Becoming A Love Language Linguist as a Caregiver
November 26, 2023 15:00 - 43 minutes - 30.2 MBEver thought how our backgrounds and experiences shape the way we give and receive love? What if we could turn learning the language of love into a fun and interactive game? Join us as we engage in a captivating conversation with our guest, Paul, about the ground-breaking concept of the Five Love Languages. This episode promises to revolutionize the way you perceive and express love, while also enhancing your relationships. Drawing on personal stories and experiences with the book, "The Fiv...
A Little More Time Together: A Conversation with Donna Olivia
November 12, 2023 15:00 - 1 hour - 55.1 MBHave you ever wondered how artistry intertwines with caregiving? Today, we're chatting with Donna Olivia, a knowledgeable author, retired teacher, and caregiver who's been looking after her mother for 7 years. Brimming with Donna's deep-seated passion for authentic care, this episode uncovers her transformative journey, the lessons she's learned, and how she's harnessed her own power to become a more compassionate caregiver. We discuss Donna's book 'Grateful for Grace: Reflections on Carin...
The Universe Has The Best Clickbait
October 23, 2023 00:00 - 1 hour - 51.7 MBOn this episode, J speaks with co-host of the Remember Me Podcast and resilient figure in the caregiving world Maria Kent Beers. Her journey began with a mother diagnosed with Frontal Temporal Dementia (FTD) and ALS, leading her to discover a strength she never knew she possessed. Navigating medical systems is a daunting task, but Maria's story is one of determination and advocacy, reminding us all of the importance of speaking up for our loved ones. Imagine connecting with someone despite...
Why is Zetty on the floor?
October 09, 2023 21:00 - 27 minutes - 19.1 MBOften times caregiving comes with surprises. In this episode of the Parenting Up podcast, J talks about when she was having a productive wave, planning her Comedy tour, creating with her staff, and boom —she is notified that Zetty - who is supposed to be in bed- is on flat on the floor. Join J as she navigates going from a large-scale meeting for her upcoming comedy tour to aiding Zetty - who just got out of the hospital - off the floor in a matter of minutes. Snuggle Up with today’s takea...
Embracing the Chaos: No means No
August 27, 2023 10:00 - 41 minutes - 28.9 MBEver found yourself caught in the unexpected whirlwind of caregiving on what you thought was a typical day? Discover how I navigated through night-before-appointment anxiety and carried the weight of overwhelming responsibilities, learning to manage them using personal coping strategies -- humor and flexibility. Ever had an encounter with an obstinate loved one refusing to get in a car? Hear about my hilarious adventure of getting Zetty into the vehicle and to her appointment on time. You'...
The New Weed: The Power of Pause with Coach Amrit Singh
August 13, 2023 14:00 - 55 minutes - 38.1 MBAmrit's personal journey from being a weed-head to discovering yoga and meditation offers a compelling exploration of self-discovery and the transformative power of coaching. Imagine waking up just 30 minutes earlier than usual, embracing the quiet of the early morning to connect with yourself and the world. Sounds peaceful, doesn't it? In J Smiles' conversation with life coach and yoga teacher, Amrit Singh, we learned the immense value of such small moments of self-care, especially for tho...
But Dad Remembers Everything: A Conversation of FTD with Jeff Ton
July 23, 2023 13:00 - 59 minutes - 41.1 MBHas the thought of becoming an unexpected caregiver for a LOVED ONE ever crossed your mind? Imagine the journey of a man thrown into this role, tasked with caring for his charismatic and beloved father after his mom dies. Join J Smiles as she welcomes Jeff Ton, whose heartfelt story ushers us into the emotional rollercoaster that is Frontal Temporal Dementia (FTD) caregiving. Against the backdrop of the shared love and respect for his father, a revered doctor and bishop, Jeff navigates us ...
Caregiver, Caree, Badazz: Jen Hardy
July 10, 2023 00:00 - 1 hour - 49.2 MBJ Smiles is joined by Jen Hardy, an experienced caregiver, and Alzheimer's awareness advocate, who shares the triumphs and struggles of her unique caregiving experiences. Who knew that saying "no" could be such a powerful tool in creating a better future for those in need? From her aunt and grandma battling cancer, her father's depression and renal failure, to her husband's illness, Jen's resilience and commitment are truly inspiring. What if you were told you wouldn't live past a year? Ho...
Caregiving Chose Me 4x's: A Conversation with Janice Goldmintz
June 26, 2023 02:00 - 1 hour - 48.2 MBGet ready to be amazed and inspired by the incredible Janice Goldmintz, a "super caregiver" who has navigated the unknowns of caregiving for both her parents and her child. Listen in as Janice tells her powerful story of raising a daughter with trisomy 13, a genetic disorder with a life expectancy less than 1 year . With strength, resilience, humor, and a thirst for knowledge, Janice made difficult decisions and advocated for her daughter's care, extending her time on earth. J Smiles' conve...
Protect Your Brain: Stop Picking Your Nose
June 12, 2023 02:00 - 22 minutes - 15.4 MBDid you know that your nose-picking habit might be putting you at risk for dementia? Join J for a fascinating study conducted by Australian scientists, which discovered that excessive nose picking can lead to amyloid beta plaques on your brain - a precursor to Alzheimer's disease. UGH!! In this eye-opening episode, J Smiles shares anecdotes spanning three generations of nose excavation. Since the majority of humans are world class diggers then J hopes to provide options -- dab on it or scis...
Tapping (EFT) with Lauren Fonivelle: a conversation
May 15, 2023 02:00 - 51 minutes - 35.2 MBHave you ever had neck pain, stomach aches, migraines, TMJ, trouble sleeping -- on top of being a family caregiver? Yeah, haven't we all. What if you heard about a non-Rx, self-sufficient, convenient combat tool? Welp. That is what Lauren Fonvielle and J Smiles discuss, Emotional Freedom Technique (Tapping). Anxiety and panic attacks led Lauren on a pilgrimage for better. Now this "tapping" beneficiary turned certified instructor is on a mission to help others expand their self care toolb...
A conversation with Star Bradbury: Helping Your Parent (Zetty) Age Successfully
April 24, 2023 02:00 - 1 hour - 62.5 MBHow many times have you wondered what to do next when your mom or dad is aging? How many headaches have you had trying to decide if their decline is normal or a problem? Of course, you make the doctor's appointment. But what questions do you ask? And how hard do you push your parent into modifying major components of his or her life? Look no further, Star Bradbury has a guide for to YOU "successfully navigate your parents' senior years" (book title BTW). See what J did there. Star has re...
Zetty made me get a speeding ticket!
April 09, 2023 17:00 - 25 minutes - 17.9 MBJ Smiles and Zetty, Thelma and Louise or Cleo and Frankie, it is hard to separate classic chicks being chased by cops. What happens when your mom directs you to "have fun" with the horsepower in a 5speed while belting out rock tunes? Take a ride down memory lane with J Smiles as she figures out why National Institutes of Health suggests positive reminiscing for mental health. Join Alzheimer's favorite duo for another journey of heavy reality sprinkled with love and laugher. Catch J's si...
Tell Your Mom I said HELLO!
March 23, 2023 08:00 - 23 minutes - 16.1 MBJ Smiles runs into an old friend of Zetty. The problem is this "close" old bestie wants J to promise to tell Zetty a ton of specific memories from sixty years ago (silently - lady my mama doesn't know what day it is). Trying not to be rude goes wrong and J is stuck in quandary. Yell fire while ditching the conversation or bite her lip by entertaining the notion that Zetty will "remember" old bestie. What would you do? J stumbles through this encounter, shares a few other touchy examples and...
What is your Caregiver SuperPower?
March 01, 2023 03:00 - 48 minutes - 33.6 MBMad that caregivers are not getting enough love from the self-help industry, J Smiles sets her sights on acknowledging and creating dynamic groups similar to Myers Briggs, Love Languages and Ancestry-Lineage tests. Family caregivers exhibit remarkable above average traits day in and day out. Wouldn't it be nice to identify your super power and intentionally lead with it? Better yet, know how to spot super powers in others and call them into duty when needed. It's called plugging the holes. ...
I tripped over Zetty!
February 21, 2023 01:00 - 32 minutes - 22.7 MBJ learns the hard way about shadowing in the world of dementia when Zetty approaches her from the rear and they both end up on the floor. Tuck your earbuds close for a rollercoaster of laughs and heartfelt storytelling. Join Alzheimer's favorite duo for another journey of heavy reality sprinkled love and laugher. Catch J's signature SNUGGLE UP ending for provocative take aways. "Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain't gotta be!" IG: https://www.instagram.com/parentingup FB: https://www.facebook...
Did he say Zetty doesn't have ALZ?!?
January 30, 2023 03:00 - 40 minutes - 27.9 MBJ was traveling, meeting new friends. While describing what she does back home, Zetty came up. Feeling connected and free, J showed videos of Zetty to this intimate group of newcomers to her life. A single voice exclaims, "J, your mom does not have ALZ." Startled and intrigued, J leans in and a very uncommon conversation ensues. No ALZ? Listening and learning, teaching and advising J Smiles walks away full. Join Alzheimer's favorite duo for another journey of heavy reality lifted sprink...
Caregivers, let MORE go!
December 29, 2022 10:00 - 27 minutes - 18.9 MBJ planned for a nothing Dec 25th. Surely she could at least have a quiet day with Zetty during such a festive time of year. Shortly after breakfast all-hell broke loose. Zilch plan be damned. Z's incontinence had plan of its own. But it is NOT shower day, dammit!!! Stuck between a rock and a very soft, smelly space, J tries to regroup and salvage her already bleak Christmas hopes. Join Alzheimer's favorite duo for another journey of heavy reality lifted sprinkled love and laugher. As al...
The Black Hole: Depth Perception
December 18, 2022 22:00 - 33 minutes - 23.1 MBWhen Zetty's trainer and hired caregivers tell J Smiles of her reluctance to step up or onto things, J is perplexed. Why? Zetty has the physical strength, she is in good spirits -- are the caretakers exaggerating? Is this related to ALZ? Maybe Zetty is taking advantage of them. J is determined to get some answers because remodeling the house feels overwhelming. Expert advice from Home Care Assistance Edmonton and Vision Aware are shared too! As always J's signature SNUGGLE UP ending, of...
THOR is 10x more likely to get ALZ!
November 21, 2022 03:00 - 26 minutes - 18.1 MBWhen Superhero, SUPA-hunk Chris Hemsworth finds out each parent gave him the rare gift of APOE4, J Smiles is blown away. How can THOR, a god of longevity, be 10x more likely to get Alzheimer's? YES - Chris is an actor. THOR is a fictional character. The collision of the two allowed the medical discovery which could save Chris' life. J taps into National Geographic's Limitless, a docuseries on longevity. She covers a bit of Dr. Peter Attia approach to extending a person's life with a hi...
Floating in The Deep End a Conversation with Patti Davis
November 12, 2022 03:00 - 1 hour - 43.4 MBPatti Davis, US President Ronald Reagan's daughter, joins J for an in-depth conversation about her new book, Floating in the Deep End: How Caregivers Can See Beyond Alzheimer's. Patti shares personal stories of caring for her dad and becoming a caregiver saved her life. J digs into Patti's experience running a support group for caregivers after her dad's death. The honesty about issues with family members, struggles with denial and learning to lie are only a few of the topics where these ...
Surprise a Caregiver, Shock yourself!
November 01, 2022 00:00 - 37 minutes - 25.5 MBA quick text turns into a caregiver support session. J thinks she is surprising a "brother-cousin" caregiver yet she is the one left shook. Ever the optimist, Smiles decides to embrace the visit even after a dark start. Join J as she explains all the emotions of visiting a caregiver in the thick of it. As always J's signature SNUGGLE UP ending, offering provocative take aways. FOLLOW US++++++ 📰Parenting UP! Newsletter SIGN UP: http://www.jsmilescomedy.com "Alzheimer's is heavy but we ain...
Zetty is a Nap Nazi!
October 17, 2022 00:00 - 36 minutes - 25.4 MBJ Smiles is a self-proclaimed master napper. This super skill has saved her countless times throughout life. J expects to utilize it frequently during caregiving duty. Until... Exhausted from a live comedy performance, Smiles attempts to catch a quick nap while on-shift with Zetty. One problem, Zetty keeps interrupting. Foggy and frustrated, J has to figure out how to manage the moment. Expert Power Nap tips round out the episode before J's signature SNUGGLE UP ending, offering provocati...
I'm a snitch!
October 01, 2022 01:00 - 23 minutes - 16.2 MBJ Smiles, hired to perform an entire 60 minute comedy set on caregiving content feels slimy when the audience demands juicer jokes. Does telling the dirty truth about Zetty's dark ALZ moments on stage make J a snitch? In a flash protecting Z is at odds with performing. The responsibilities of caregiving often interrupt J's schedule but this is the first time her stage-life is at stake. Join our favorite ALZ DUO on another magical ride and lean into J's signature SNUGGLE UP at the end off...
So stressed, vacation didn't work!
August 30, 2022 10:00 - 32 minutes - 22.4 MBJ Smiles cannot believe that her tried and true girlfriend get-a-way failed to rejuvenate her. She planned, packed and even peeled off a few pounds for that new swimsuit. The weather - perfect. Crew - solid. Sand and sun steady remedies. How in the world did this happen? Caregivers must vacation, yes. The goal is to be refreshed and relaxed afterwards. Is there a better way, a newer way -- a different manner of vacay CGs? In her comical narrative, J shares what she believes went wrong ...
I'm on the edge of quitting caregiving!
August 15, 2022 21:00 - 33 minutes - 22.9 MBJ is flying solo in this rare glimpse of her questioning if she can continue caregiving. WOW! She is stunned by the source of her "quitting" stress. Listen to hear what put her on the edge and how she digested fact vs fiction. The fan fave SNUGGLE UP at the end gives PARENTING UP nuggets. 📰Parenting UP! Newsletter SIGN UP: http://www.jsmilescomedy.com 📲Instagram: Parenting UP! https://www.instagram.com/parentingup/ 🖥 Facebook Page: Parenting UP! https://www.facebook.com/parentingup 🎥...
Zetty's coworker thought she was dead!
July 15, 2022 21:00 - 27 minutes - 19 MBJ Smiles is floored by an anonymous email inquiring if she is Yvette's daughter. Yvette, Zetty's legal name, is her mom but who is this phantom typer and why are they looking for J? Unable to ask Zetty about the sender, J becomes an internal detective hoping to uncover if this is valid, fraud or a mean catfish prank. Smiles realizes much more is at stake when sender ask if Zetty is dead. Join our favorite ALZ DUO on another magical ride and lean into J's signature SNUGGLE UP at the end off...
Why am I still sleepy after a good night's sleep?
June 23, 2022 02:00 - 33 minutes - 23.1 MBSleep is bitting your favorite caregiver's butt again. This time, J Smiles is getting ample rest but not reaping the rewards. Unprepared for these moments of exhaustion, listen as J details mishaps with Zetty, work and random daily activities. Searching for answers uncovers ah-has and oh-nos galore. All genders should Snuggle Up closely! We want to hear your comments & future topic suggestions: TEXT a purple heart "💜" (then follow prompts to tell us) +1 (404) 737 - 1449 📰Parenting UP! ...
Why am I still sleepy after a good night's sleep?
June 23, 2022 02:00 - 33 minutes - 23.1 MBSleep is bitting your favorite caregiver's butt again. This time, J Smiles is getting ample rest but not reaping the rewards. Unprepared for these moments of exhaustion, listen as J details mishaps with Zetty, work and random daily activities. Searching for answers uncovers ah-has and oh-nos galore. All genders should Snuggle Up closely! We want to hear your comments & future topic suggestions: TEXT a purple heart "💜" (then follow prompts to tell us) +1 (404) 737 - 1449 📰Parenting UP! ...
Zetty keeps using the "N" word!
June 10, 2022 05:00 - 33 minutes - 23 MBZetty, the co-star of the podcast, attempts to lead several groundbreaking conversations but the "N" word continues to arise leaving J Smiles stymied. Snuggle Up to hear another saga of ALZ's favorite DUO. We want to hear your comments & future topic suggestions: TEXT a purple heart "💜" (then follow prompts to tell us) +1 (404) 737 - 1449 📰Parenting UP! Newsletter SIGN UP: http://www.jsmilescomedy.com 📲Instagram: Parenting UP! https://www.instagram.com/parentingup/ 🖥 Facebook Page...
Did Zetty just FLIRT with that man?
May 20, 2022 18:00 - 30 minutes - 21.2 MBJ Smiles is caught off guard when Zetty initiates a conversation with an unknown, handsome man. Is it flirting? Sounds like it. But how does Zetty remember such social etiquette when she cannot recall her birthday? J shares what experts say about sex drive & ALZ too. She even scratches the legal land of consent --- when does consent get murky for the spouse or life partner of an ALZ sufferer? There are enough laughs to give you a stress break and a new pick-up line, if nothing else. Snug...
Can't Even Choose to Die with Dignity
May 14, 2022 15:00 - 31 minutes - 21.8 MB"Dying with Dignity" laws allow what is commonly called assisted suicide. ALZ and dementia do not qualify. J Smiles is not happy about this but as usual she finds away to add sparkle to a sour situation and slides in a few solutions for our community. Snuggle UP for how J plans to beat the system and why author Amy Bloom impacted this episode. For Episode Comments & Future Topic Suggestions: TEXT a purple heart "💜" +1 (404) 737 - 1449 📰Parenting UP! Newsletter SIGN UP: http://www.jsm...
Can't Even Choose to Die with Dignity
May 14, 2022 15:00 - 31 minutes - 21.8 MB"Dying with Dignity" laws allow what is commonly called assisted suicide. ALZ and dementia do not qualify. J Smiles is not happy about this but as usual she finds away to add sparkle to a sour situation and slides in a few solutions for our community. Snuggle UP for how J plans to beat the system and why author Amy Bloom impacted this episode. For Episode Comments & Future Topic Suggestions: TEXT a purple heart "💜" +1 (404) 737 - 1449 📰Parenting UP! Newsletter SIGN UP: http://www.jsm...
Double Duty: Caregiving & Working at the exact same moment!
April 30, 2022 20:00 - 45 minutes - 31 MBWhat happens when you are doing your REAL income-earning, bills-paying job and unexpectedly you MUST give eyeball care to your LO? This unnerving experience is shared by J Smiles. She secured "help" for Zetty because J had a "live" performance. In the blink of any eye, Smiles was left without that "coverage" --- can she do her comedy show and care for her mom, should she even try to do both, will the stress break her? J releases all the juices bits of what she calls "spirit shifting," w...
Taking Zetty on a Date: The Motown Concert
April 23, 2022 14:00 - 47 minutes - 32.5 MBExperts say that Alzheimer's does not erode music memories. Filled with excitement, J Smiles and Zetty prepare for a night out on the town for a concert. Not just any concert, two of Zetty's favorite bands of ALL-TIMES. J gets caught up treating it like a wedding or prom. Fancy appointments, new outfits -- that's when the wheels start to fall off the bus. Snuggle UP to hear how our duo makes do. For Episode Comments / Future Topic Suggestions: TEXT a purple heart "💜" +1 (404) 737 - 1...
Protection or Paranoia: Sharing Your LO's ALZ Diagnosis
April 15, 2022 09:00 - 38 minutes - 26.5 MBMany caregivers coverup or hide their LO's ALZ. J hopes to eradicate the necessity to do that by starting this conversation and continuing to shed light on the facts of ALZ. J Smiles admits it was hard to "go public" with Zetty's ALZ diagnosis. Some kinda way she makes us laugh again. She digs into why family caregivers may struggle with when to share this sensitive information. Ultimately, J asks CG's are you driven by protection or paranoia? You will get pros and cons with tips and stra...
The Hydration Handbook
April 01, 2022 14:00 - 30 minutes - 21.1 MBJ Smiles is back! Winter hibernation made discussing hydration more necessary than ever. Hydration is important for seniors to avoid health complications. J shares the struggle of getting Zetty to consume water. The doctor's guidelines seem straight forward but Zetty tricks J more than once along this journey. Their circus is complicated by Zetty's life-long disdain of water. Ultimately, J lands on a few solutions. Listen as J highlights general methods to increase your LO's liquid intak...
Caregivers, Celebrate Your Wins!
December 31, 2021 21:00 - 40 minutes - 27.8 MBDo you own being a Caregiver Out LOUD? J Smiles pull apart why many caregivers do not include their CG title in the list of "What I do" in conversations, on social media or resumés. Perplexed, she reflected and found pain as a possible source of hesitance. Listen for her take on how to overcome this avoidance. J gives a handful of easy examples to celebrate your caregiver status. Smiles pushes a theory that Family CGs need to "pop their collar" a bit --- walk tall --- shout it sooner and ...
The Boo-Boo Faint: Vasovagal Syncope
December 19, 2021 02:00 - 55 minutes - 38.2 MBWhile sleeping after a long night shift with Zetty, J Smiles is startled awake by the words "J come quick, Zetty has passed out!" J has a matter of seconds to determine what is happening using her foggy brain, wobbly legs and unconditional love for her mother. J gives vivid details of the ordeal. Is Zetty having a stroke? It is late on a Saturday afternoon during Covid-19, should they go to the hospital? J leans into intuition and past caregiver experiences. Listen to this episode dripping...
Dentures and Dementia are Oral Care Hell!
December 01, 2021 02:00 - 49 minutes - 34.2 MBZetty had dentures much of her adult life but J never had to get involved -- until now. As a caregiver, J Smiles is learning that it is not as simple as her brain-health mom made it seem all those years. Because teeth are required to chew, Smiles is determined to master these objects to keep her mom properly nurishhed. But J loses many battles along the way. Who knew such humor and health care could be contained within denture debacles? Get ready for problems putting the dentures in, t...