In this episode of the podcast, we sit down with financial advisor Michael Lewis, who shares insightful perspectives on the intersection of brain health and financial planning.

Michael points out that certain cognitive decline conditions can begin developing 7 to 10 years before any noticeable symptoms appear. With this in mind, he strongly recommends that just as we schedule annual physical checkups, we should also routinely assess our cognitive function. Proactive brain health screenings can make a significant difference in long-term financial decision-making and personal well-being.

He also emphasizes that periods of high stress are some of the worst times to make major financial decisions. Stress can cloud judgment, heighten emotional responses, and lead to choices that may not be in our best interest. His advice? Plan ahead and prepare for the unexpected.

Michael encourages families to have the important conversations before a crisis arises—whether about wills, care plans, or long-term financial goals—and to take action early, rather than delaying essential steps.

This conversation is a powerful reminder of the importance of being proactive, not only in our finances but in our mental and emotional well-being as we age.

To reach Michael.

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/michael-lewis-cfa-mba
• Website: www.familylegacync.com

Calendar: https://calendly.com/caregiversresource/preliminary

Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Aneesh Chaundry, who shares powerful insights into the connection between mental health and athletic performance. Through his work, Aneesh discovered that many athletes struggle to reach their full potential not due to physical limitations, but because of psychological barriers that often go unaddressed.

Motivated by this realization, he developed a specialized program designed to support athletes in nurturing strong mental well-being. His approach focuses on helping individuals build emotional resilience, foster inner peace, and maintain a balanced mindset—essential tools not only for sports but for life.

Aneesh emphasizes that true happiness isn’t something we need to chase externally. Instead, it can be cultivated from within through intentional and conscious practices. One of the foundational tools he recommends is mindfulness—learning to be present in the moment, to observe thoughts without judgment, and to reconnect with one’s inner self.

His work is a reminder that peak performance starts from within, and that mental fitness is just as important as physical training.

To reach Aneesh:

webpage:

SoulPhysio LifeStyle – Family Mental Health is Our Mission

Today on the podcast, we are joined by Miriam Bahar, a specialist in movement and transitions, who provides compassionate support to individuals—especially older adults—during the significant life event of relocating to a new home.

Miriam shares how moving is not simply about changing addresses; it is a deeply emotional and meaningful process. For many seniors, parting with personal belongings can be difficult, as these items often hold sentimental value and are linked to cherished memories. She emphasizes the importance of having support during this time—someone who can walk alongside them with empathy and understanding, helping them make thoughtful decisions about what to keep, what to donate, and what truly serves them in the present.

One of Miriam’s core principles is focusing on what is currently useful and necessary. In her experience, simplifying one’s space by keeping only what is actively used allows for a more peaceful and manageable transition. She also reminds us that people often hold onto objects not for their utility but for the emotional significance they carry. Navigating this attachment with care and sensitivity is essential in her work.

Beyond emotional support, Miriam highlights the importance of planning for safety. She encourages individuals and families to take future mobility and accessibility into account when choosing a new home or arranging a living space. Proactively creating a safe and comfortable environment plays a key role in maintaining independence and quality of life as we age.

Miriam’s work serves as a beautiful reminder that moving can be a healing process—a chance to reflect, simplify, and look ahead with clarity and confidence.

In this episode of our podcast, we have the pleasure of interviewing Traci Poe, a communication specialist with a deep understanding of human connection and emotional intelligence. Tracy shares valuable insights on how we can learn from others by observing and even mirroring their ways of expressing love, helping us to better connect with those around us—whether it's our partners, family members, or friends.

One of the key highlights of the episode is Traci’s explanation of the Five Love Languages, a concept developed by Dr. Gary Chapman that has transformed how many people understand and express love. These five languages are:

1. Words of Affirmation – expressing love through verbal encouragement, appreciation, and kind words.
2. Acts of Service – showing love by doing helpful things for the other person, like running errands or helping with tasks.
3. Physical Touch – using affection, such as hugs, hand-holding, or gentle touches, to communicate emotional closeness.
4. Quality Time – giving someone your undivided attention and being fully present during shared moments.
5. Giving and Receiving Gifts – showing love through thoughtful presents that symbolize care and appreciation.

Traci emphasizes that by understanding these different languages and recognizing the preferred love language of those we care about, we can foster deeper, more meaningful relationships. She also encourages us to be open to learning and adapting our communication style—not only to express love more effectively but also to receive it in the way others offer it.

This episode is a powerful reminder that love is both a feeling and an intentional practice, and by becoming fluent in the love languages, we can strengthen our bonds and create more harmony in our relationships.

To reach Traci:

Webpage:

https://communicategreat.online/page/communicating-with-family-friends

Podcast:

https://open.spotify.com/show/6nOmhILK8mF7Pt6PE6B1SF

Social:

FB-

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572409980096

IG-

https://www.instagram.com/glowandgrowthyself?igsh=ZW10eXJxdDdvZjUy&utm_source=qr

YT-

https://youtube.com/@glowandgrowthyself?si=dwCTJPoyq3ajS4N5

In today’s podcast episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Judy Swanson, who shares valuable insights on mental health and well-being. She provides practical tips on how to cultivate small sparks of joy in everyday life and emphasizes the importance of being kinder to yourself.

Judy encourages us to practice gratitude daily, engage in acts of kindness, smile more often, and find joy in the simple beauty of nature. She also explains how the way we phrase our thoughts and words can significantly impact our mood. For example, shifting from saying “I have to” to “I get to” can create a more positive mindset.

Additionally, she reminds us to focus on small but essential habits, such as staying hydrated, nourishing our bodies with healthy foods, and incorporating movement into our daily routine. By shifting our focus to the positive, we can enhance our well-being and cultivate a more joyful and fulfilling life. Tune in for an uplifting conversation filled with wisdom and practical steps to nurture both your mind and spirit!

To reach Judi

Website:

https://kindnesschampions.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/KindnessChampions/

Instagram:

@kindness_champs

https://www.instagram.com/kindness_champs/?hl=en

X/Twitter:

@KindnessChamps

Blue Sky:

@kindnesschampions.bsky.social

LinkedIn:

Judi Swanson and Kindness Champions

Email:

kindnesschampions2020@gmail.com

In this episode of our podcast, we have the pleasure of interviewing Jodi Benusa, a dedicated geriatric consultant who helps families find the ideal living arrangement for their aging loved ones. Her work is truly remarkable, as she goes beyond the surface to ensure that every placement is a perfect match.

Jodi follows a unique and thorough approach to finding the right senior living community. She starts by asking the right questions to understand not only the medical and physical needs of the elderly person but also their personality, lifestyle, and personal preferences. She then reaches out to facility directors, sales teams, and receptionists to gain insight into the philosophy and culture of each institution, ensuring it aligns with the senior’s values and way of life.

Additionally, Jodi meticulously reviews records, investigates any reported violations, and identifies potential red flags to guarantee that the recommended facility is safe, reputable, and genuinely the best fit. Her diligence and expertise provide families with peace of mind, knowing that their loved ones will be well cared for in an environment that truly feels like home.

Tune in to learn more about Jodi’s insightful process and the importance of finding a place where seniors can thrive with dignity, comfort, and happiness.

To reach Jodi

http://www.usageriatricservices.com

LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/usa-geriatric-services/?viewAsMember=true

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/usageriatricservices

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/USAGS

Today, we are thrilled to celebrate a major milestone—our 100th podcast episode! This journey has been incredible, and we are so grateful to have you as part of our community. Every episode has been an opportunity to learn, grow, and connect, and we couldn't have done it without you.

No matter where you are, we invite you to celebrate with us! Whether it’s by sharing your favorite episode, reflecting on the insights gained, or simply taking a moment to appreciate this journey, let’s make this a special occasion together.

Thank you for being with us every step of the way. Here’s to 100 episodes—and many more to come!

In this podcast, we have the pleasure of interviewing Amy Bridger from Farmstead, an organization dedicated to honoring those who have passed away in a truly unique and heartfelt way.

Farmstead offers a special service that allows families to commemorate their loved ones in a serene and picturesque setting—a beautiful farm where ashes can be laid to rest in a manner that truly reflects the essence of the departed.

This peaceful haven provides a personalized farewell, ensuring that the final tribute aligns with what would have been most meaningful to the individual. Whether it’s during a breathtaking sunset, while taking a walk with their beloved pet, through a heartfelt religious reading, with laughter and cherished memories, or in quiet contemplation, every ceremony is carried out with deep respect and love.

Join us as we explore this extraordinary way of celebrating life and paying tribute to those who are no longer with us.

To reach Amy Bridger

www.farmsteadscattering.com

https://www.farmsteadscattering.com/blogs/news