Whole Caregiver

2026: The Year Caregivers Take Action

In this conversation, Erna and Megan discuss the challenges faced by caregivers in 2026, emphasizing the need for community support, the importance of respite, and the impact of Medicaid cuts. They explore the necessity of self-care for caregivers and the importance of taking action to support one another. The discussion highlights the need for collective values in caregiving and the importance of finding common ground across political divides. The conversation concludes with a call to action for caregivers to take care of themselves and each other as they navigate the complexities of caregiving.

"Soaring Together": More with Jillian Arnold

In this episode of the Whole Caregiver podcast, hosts Erna and Megan engage in a heartfelt conversation with Jillian Arnold, author of 'Soaring Together.' They explore Jillian's journey as a caregiver, the emotional complexities of caring for children with disabilities, and the importance of inclusion and understanding differences. The discussion delves into the balance between caregiving and personal identity, the toll of caregiving on mental health, and the profound impact of loss. Jillian shares her insights on finding beauty in non-traditional lives and the lessons learned from her children, emphasizing that life can be beautiful even when it doesn't fit the typical mold. Jillian also shares how her creative projects—podcast, merch, and a book—help sustain purpose and connection.
If we want to learn more about Jillian's book and where to find it, check out her website:
https://www.confessionsofararediseasemama.com/donate
 
 
 

Gratitude & Holiday Wishes

In this heartfelt holiday message, Megan and Erna express their gratitude to their listeners and reflect on the themes of love, service, and community. They share personal insights about the importance of connection during the holiday season, especially for those who may be grieving. The conversation emphasizes the value of friendship and support, and they look forward to engaging with their audience in the new year.

Parenting Children with a Rare Disease: Our Conversation with Jillian Arnold

Hosts Erna and Megan welcome Jillian Arnold, who shares her family’s journey after both of her children were diagnosed with ASMD, a rare and progressive genetic condition. Jillian Arnold is the proud mom of two children, Roman and Stella, who both live with ASMD, a rare and terminal genetic condition. She’s the host of Confessions of a Rare Disease Mama, a podcast where she shares honest conversations about caregiving, medical parenthood, and finding purpose through life’s hardest moments. Jillian is also the author of the children’s book Soaring Together, which celebrates inclusion and differences, inspired by her own family’s journey. In addition to her creative work, she’s a passionate rare disease advocate and speaker."
 
In this episode, Jillian discusses the early diagnosis, building a trusted care team, and navigating treatments while raising awareness through her podcast and children’s book. She also opens up about the everyday realities of caregiving — the importance of advocacy, finding community both online and in person, and carving out small acts of self-care to sustain resilience. Jillian reflects on how her experiences have positioned her as a resource for others facing similar challenges.
If you would like to find out more about Jillian and her work check out her website: https://www.confessionsofararediseasemama.com/
 

Building Caregiver-Friendly Workplaces

Hosts Erna and Megan interview Tracy Dunbar, founder of HR Redefined, about navigating caregiving in the workplace.
 
Tracy is a dedicated leader who strongly believes in the power of Human Resources and Talent Management to drive social justice and equity in our workplaces. With a deep commitment to creating fair and inclusive environments, Tracy strives to demonstrate what true equity and inclusion can look like every single day and leads with a set of core values that guide her approach. Sharing power and decision-making is a fundamental principle she upholds, empowering individuals to actively participate in shaping their work environment. Leading with empathy, Tracy strives to understand and support the unique needs and experiences of individuals and build solutions that meet their needs. Moreover, she is a proponent of challenging the status quo, constantly seeking innovative approaches to drive positive change.
They explore the challenges faced by caregivers, the importance of creating supportive workplace policies, and the role of leadership in fostering a caregiver-friendly environment. Tracy shares her insights on the need for transparent communication, defining caregiving roles, and the balance between organizational needs and employee support. The discussion emphasizes the importance of empathy, structure, and advocacy in improving the workplace for caregivers.
Tracy offers practical steps—flexible work arrangements, parental/paid leave, donated time banks, childcare options, knowledge management, cross-training, and budgeting for coverage—and emphasizes leadership courage and storytelling to normalize caregiving.
The episode gives actionable advice for caregivers to speak up and for employers to build equitable, sustainable systems that support staff while maintaining performance.
Links to find out more about Tracy's work:
 
Company website: https://hr-redefined.com/
 
BIO: https://hr-redefined.com/about/
 
LinkedIn Profile: www.linkedin.com/in/tracydunbar
 
Sample Work: Our Approach to Bereavement Policy
 
 
 

Finding Grace Through ALS

Erna and Megan talk with Lisa Valentine Clark about caring for her late husband, Dr. Christopher Clark, who was diagnosed with ALS. Lisa emphasizes the need to share experiences and the legacy of love that caregiving can create, even in the face of adversity. The conversation serves as a reminder of the strength found in vulnerability and the connections formed through shared experiences.
She offers three core takeaways for caregivers: give yourself grace, accept help from your community, and speak openly about caregiving to support others facing similar journeys.
If you want to learn more about Lisa Valentine Clark, you can find her podcast "The Lisa Show" wherever you get your podcasts. 

From Grief to Growth

In this episode hosts Erna and Megan reflect on Erna’s origin story as a caregiver, exploring grief, the temptation to idealize loved ones, and the move toward honest remembrance.  They explore the balance between honoring loved ones and acknowledging their complexities. They discuss connecting with other caregivers, building a supportive platform, and advocating for compassion within workplaces.
Erna shares her journey toward setting boundaries, prioritizing health, and pursuing a more fulfilling, multi‑threaded career. The episode ends with practical encouragement for listeners to care for themselves and others.
Check out Season 1 Episode 4 for Erna's origin story. 

Letting Go, Holding On

Hosts Erna and Megan reflect on two years of The Whole Caregiver Podcast, revisiting their origin stories and how caregiving roles have changed over time. They discuss transitions—preparing children for independence, supporting aging parents, and the messy, non‑linear reality of caregiving.
The episode highlights learning to accept uncertainty, approach conflict constructively, advocate for loved ones, and embrace growth through caregiving’s ebbs and flows.
See Season 1 Episode 3 for Megan's origin story. 

Self-Worth and Self-Care

In this episode, Erna and Megan share valuable insights from their caregiving journeys, discussing themes of self-worth, the importance of preparation, and the dynamics of healthy relationships. They emphasize the significance of deep self-care as a holistic approach to living.
They discuss mindfulness, the peaks and valleys of caregiving, and the importance of community and mutual support as keys to staying whole while caring for others. 

Caregiving in Uncertain Times

Hosts Erna and Meg open season three discussing how caregivers can live with uncertainty: accepting what is out of our control, setting boundaries, and trusting ourselves and others. They share practical strategies—turning off notifications, pacing information, extending grace, and learning from mistakes—to reduce anxiety and stay present.
The episode emphasizes community and forgiveness within the healthcare system, the power of doing the next right thing, and holding on to hope as a sustaining force for caregivers.