My Favorite Girl Caregivers Corner Podcast

Alzheimer’s disease impacts millions of families, and the fight for better care and a cure continues. In Florida, 580,000 individuals are living with Alzheimer’s, and 840,000 are providing unpaid care to their loved ones. The toll is profound and far-reaching. This week, over 100 advocates from across Florida will gather at the Capitol for the 2025 Rally In Tally — an impactful event focused on raising awareness, pushing for policy changes, and advocating for those affected by Alzheimer's. On this LIVE discussion, I was joined by Jennifer Braisted, Director of Government Affairs at the Alzheimer’s Association | State of Florida, and CherylAnn Haley, Positive Approach to Care Independent Certified Coach & Caregiver Advocate. Listen as we dived into the 2025 Rally in Tallahassee, explored the critical issues impacting those affected by Alzheimer’s, and discussed how advocates are driving change here in Florida.

In this episode, we're talking about the Big Bend Hospice's Inaugural Partnership Caregiver Conference, a groundbreaking event designed to provide valuable resources and support for African American caregivers. Caregivers face unique challenges, including chronic stress and health disparities, which can have serious impacts on their well-being. But Big Bend Hospice is stepping in with compassionate care and vital support, connecting caregivers with healthcare professionals and organizations that are committed to improving care and overall quality of life. In collaboration with The Acts II Project and The Alzheimer’s Project, this conference, titled, “Caring with Heart: Support for Hospice and Alzheimer’s Families,” aims to address these challenges head-on, offering insights, resources, and a supportive community for those who need it most. Whether you’re a caregiver yourself or simply someone who wants to learn more about the work being done to support these unsung heroes, this episode will leave you informed, empowered, and connected to essential tools for navigating the caregiving journey.

In this episode, we explore the transformative work of the Big Bend Area Health Education Center (BBAHEC), a non-profit organization founded in 1995 with the mission of improving community health through education and collaboration. Serving 14 counties in the Florida Panhandle, including Taylor, Madison, Jefferson, Leon, Gadsden, Wakulla, Franklin, Gulf, Bay, Calhoun, Liberty, Jackson, Washington, and Holmes Counties, BBAHEC is committed to building thriving, kind, and equitable communities by empowering individuals with the resources they need to achieve optimal health.I am joined by Yolanda Gillette-Carlson, the Outreach Manager/Bilingual Health Educator, who shares the details of BBAHEC’s diverse, free programs, which include diabetes education, tobacco cessation, chronic disease self-management, nutrition education, community fitness classes, and breast cancer education. Additionally, the center offers health insurance navigation services, biometric health screenings, and scholarships for healthcare students. The discussion highlights how BBAHEC’s programs are not only addressing health disparities but also creating lasting positive change across rural and underserved areas.Tune in for an inspiring conversation on how BBAHEC is fostering healthier communities and helping individuals take charge of their well-being across the Florida Panhandle.

In this episode of the My Favorite Girl Caregivers Corner, I welcome a special guest, Savannah Lanza, the CEO of the Kidney Foundation of Florida, to discuss the 2025 Tallahassee Kidney Walk. Tune in as we talk about the significance of the event and how you can get involved. Savannah also shares details on how the Kidney Foundation is working to raise awareness, promote kidney health, and raise funds for research and patient support. Whether you're someone affected by kidney disease, a caregiver, or simply interested in getting involved, this episode offers valuable information and inspiration.Don't miss out on this heartwarming and informative discussion, as we gear up for an event that brings the community together for a great cause!

In this enlightening episode, we dive into the transformative power of music and its profound impact on emotional and mental wellness. Special guest Kristin Spengler, a certified music therapist and Contractor at Healing Hearts Music Therapy, shares her expertise on how music therapy can help individuals process emotions, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being. From healing trauma to managing anxiety, Kristin reveals how the therapeutic use of music can support mental health in ways words alone cannot. Join us as we explore the healing potential of melody, rhythm, and sound, and discover how music can truly be a path to emotional healing.