Protecting Our Aging Loved Ones: Understanding the LAVA Project

Protecting Our Aging Loved Ones: Understanding the LAVA Project

In this episode of The Sandwich Generation, Sara McCord and Lisa Treadwell sit down with Nadine McSpadden from Indiana Legal Services, Inc. to discuss the important work being done through the LAVA Project. Together, they explore how the program helps protect vulnerable older adults from exploitation, scams, and abuse, while also providing support and legal resources for families navigating difficult situations. Sara, Lisa, and Nadine dive into why adult children should stay informed about the growing issue of elder exploitation, warning signs to watch for, and practical ways families can help safeguard their aging loved ones. This is an eye-opening and educational conversation every member of the sandwich generation should hear.

Taking Meals Off Your Plate with Chef Matthew Mejia

This month on The Sandwich Generation, Lisa and Sara sit down with Chef Matthew Mejia from Chefs For Seniors to tackle one of the most overlooked — yet essential — aspects of aging well: proper nutrition. As adult children juggle careers, kids, and caregiving, meal planning and preparation for aging parents can quickly become overwhelming. Chef Matthew shares why nutrition plays such a critical role in maintaining strength, independence, and overall health for seniors — and how his personalized approach makes it simple, safe, and even enjoyable. From accommodating dietary needs to creating meals seniors actually look forward to, he explains how families can take this responsibility off their already full plates. If you’re feeling stretched thin and worried about whether your loved ones are eating well, this episode offers practical solutions, peace of mind, and a fresh perspective on how support can look different — and better — than you might expect. Chefsforseniors.com

The PACE Plan: Preparing for What’s Next with Marilyn Olson

Sara and Lisa sit down with aging advocate and speaker Marilyn Olson, former Executive Director of Villages OKC and the Oklahoma Governor’s representative to the State Council on Aging. Marilyn shares practical wisdom for adult children navigating life with aging parents and introduces the simple but powerful PACE Plan—Primary, Alternate, Contingency, and Emergency. This thoughtful framework helps families think ahead, communicate clearly, and prepare for the unexpected when it comes to caregiving and decision-making. Marilyn also offers perspective on how we can all approach aging with intention, positivity, and preparedness. Plus, she shares a few of her favorite documentaries that spark important conversations about aging, caregiving, and the brain: My Love Affair with the Brain, Being Mortal, and Age of Champions. Whether you’re already supporting aging parents or just beginning to think about what the future might hold, this episode offers practical guidance and encouragement for the journey.

Brain Health, Real Life: Science-Backed Habits That Actually Stick with Dr. Michelle Braun

Lisa and Sara sit down with neuropsychologist and author Dr. Michelle Braun to explore practical ways to strengthen and energize your brain for everyday life. As former classmates from the Indiana University Kelley School of Business, Lisa and Michelle reconnect to share both personal stories and professional insights while unpacking the five steps from Michelle’s book, The High Octane Brain. Together, they discuss how small, intentional changes can improve focus, resilience, memory, and overall mental performance—especially for busy adults balancing work, family, and caregiving. This conversation blends science with real-life application, leaving listeners with simple, actionable strategies to support brain health and show up more fully in every season of life. Find more at drmichellebraun.com [https://www.drmichellebraun.com/]

Season 2 Kickoff: New Year, New Lessons & Hoosier Pride

Season 2 is here! Lisa and Sara kick off 2026 by sharing what’s new personally and professionally, the changes they’re embracing this year, and how they’re approaching New Year’s resolutions in the sandwich generation stage of life. They also reflect on an eye-opening online dementia course they recently completed and why education is such a powerful tool when caring for aging loved ones. Plus, a little fun as they celebrate cheering on our Hoosiers in the National College Football Championship. A thoughtful, upbeat start to Season 2.