The Care Collective Podcast

The Care Collective Podcast

by Mikayla Cluxton

Health & Fitness Society & Culture

Season 1

Leaving a Legacy: Conversations Every Family Needs to Have Before It's Too Late

When we talk about caregiving, we often focus on keeping someone alive, but what about helping them finish well? In this week’s episode of The Care Collective Podcast, host Mikayla Cluxton sits down with Kristy, a nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in palliative and end-of-life care. Together they explore what it means to prepare for the end with peace, love, and legacy in mind, and how these conversations can transform the way we live, not just how we die. You’ll hear stories from Kristy’s time at the bedside, learn how to start difficult end-of-life conversations, and gain new insight into how caregivers can find meaning in moments of loss. 💛In this episode: • How to start honest conversations about death • Why legacy planning matters for families and caregivers • Simple ways to leave love and guidance behind for those you care about • How caregivers can find peace and purpose in letting go Find more information about the work Kristy is doing here: 👉 Check out @ownyourend.co on Instagram 🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and follow us on Instagram → @carecollective.pod 💌 Have a caregiving question or situation you’d like advice on? Submit it to us! We feature listener questions in weekly posts and future episodes, and if we can’t answer, we’ll find a professional who can.

The Emotional Journey of Being a Young Caregiver: Sadie's Story

At just 11 years old, Sadie became a caregiver for her dad after he was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia. In this emotional and inspiring conversation, she shares what it’s really like to be a young caregiver — navigating grief, anger, and resilience while learning how to heal. Join us as we explore the emotional journey of caregiving through Sadie’s story — a powerful and heartfelt look at what it means to grow up too soon. From the exhaustion of balancing responsibilities to the moments of connection and love that make it all worth it, Sadie’s honesty and courage remind us that caregiving isn’t just about sacrifice — it’s about strength, love, and holding on to hope. Through vulnerability and reflection, Sadie opens up about: 💛 Becoming a caregiver at age 11 💛 Learning to separate the disease from the person 💛 The hidden grief of dementia and loss 💛 Anger, fear, and finding peace 💛 Growing through therapy and faith 💛 Her advice for other caregivers who feel alone --- About The Care Collective Podcast The Care Collective is supportive space for caregivers and those who love them, a place to feel seen, encouraged, and less alone. Each week, we share real stories, honest conversations, and reminders that you don’t have to carry it all by yourself.

How I Help Others Overcome Caregiver Burnout: Michelle Scolaro's Story

In this conversation, Michelle Scolaro, a therapist and transformational coach, shares her journey from working in senior care to focusing on helping individuals break free from burnout. She discusses the blend of therapy and coaching, the signs of burnout, and the importance of self-care, especially for caregivers. Michelle emphasizes the need for community support and the significance of finding one's identity amidst caregiving responsibilities. She also shares personal self-care practices and the role of autonomy in maintaining mental health. In this conversation, Mikayla Cluxton and Michelle Scolaro, LMHC, delve into the intricacies of therapy, caregiving, and mental health. They explore the importance of self-discovery in therapy, the challenges caregivers face, and the significance of mental health awareness. The discussion emphasizes the need for self-compassion, validation in relationships, and the power of community support. Michelle shares insights on combating burnout and reframing mindset, highlighting the privilege of caregiving and the transformative experiences offered through her retreats. The conversation concludes with a focus on creating accessible mental health resources for individuals seeking support.

Inside the Long Term Care Crisis: Sydney's Story

In this episode, Sydney, a dedicated caregiver with a rich background in elder care, shares her story and experience. They discuss the emotional weight of caregiving, the challenges faced in long-term care, and the impact of COVID-19 on both caregivers and residents. Sydney shares her experiences balancing family life with her caregiving responsibilities, the importance of connection and teamwork in care settings, and the prevalence of burnout among caregivers. They also explore the role of family in caregiving and suggest ways to improve the landscape of long-term care, emphasizing the need for more volunteers and intergenerational connections.

Why I Started a Podcast for Caregivers

In the first episode of the Care Collective Podcast, Mikayla Cluxton introduces the purpose of the podcast, which is to support caregivers and address the issue of loneliness among the elderly. She shares her personal journey in caregiving, the impact of loneliness on mental health, and the importance of community support for caregivers. The episode emphasizes the need for recognition and resources for caregivers, aiming to create a space where they feel seen and heard.

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