In this heartfelt and deeply insightful episode, we sit down with Bob Mastrogiovanni, a devoted husband, retired IRS professional, and co-president of the Well Spouse Association. Bob opens up about his powerful caregiving journey for his late wife Kathleen, who battled multiple sclerosis for decades. From the moment of diagnosis just two years into their marriage, Bob shares how their love, resilience, and adaptability helped them navigate the emotional and practical challenges of being a caregiving couple.

Together, we unpack the unique experiences of caregiver spouses—those caring for their life partners—and explore how this journey differs from other types of caregiving. Bob also dives into the vital role the Well Spouse Association plays in offering emotional support, community, and resources to those walking this path. If you're a working caregiver, a spouse currently in a caregiving role, or someone who supports them—this episode is for you. Don’t miss Zack’s challenge to organizations to step up and support the Well Spouse mission!

Episode Highlights:

[1:25] – Welcoming listeners and introducing Bob Mastrogiovanni, a retired IRS agent and caregiver spouse.
[4:11] – Bob begins sharing his caregiving journey for his wife Kathleen, diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.
[6:21] – How Bob and Kathleen made lifestyle choices to maintain a sense of normalcy after diagnosis.
[7:50] – Balancing full-time work and caregiving, and the role of professional home caregivers.
[9:28] – Discovering and joining the Well Spouse Association and eventually becoming co-president.
[11:13] – Why spousal caregiving is different and how Well Spouse provides vital support.
[13:05] – The therapist recommendation that led Bob to Well Spouse.
[16:46] – Employer flexibility: how the IRS helped Bob stay employed while caregiving.
[17:56] – Bob’s advice to employers: educate HR on caregiver challenges.
[19:38] – Why caregivers should communicate openly with employers.
[21:51] – Credit hours, workplace flexibility, and practical tools that helped Bob balance work and caregiving.
[22:52] – The emotional cost of burnout and delayed caregiver identification.
[23:16] – What Bob would tell his younger self about family, caregiving, and preparation.
[24:30] – Overview of Well Spouse programs: Zoom support groups, chat forums, respite weekends, and more.
[27:07] – Zack challenges an organization to be the first to donate and show support for Well Spouse!

Links & Resources:

• Well Spouse Association: https://wellspouse.org/
• Riverwinds Restaurant, shout out to Foti Farmakis: https://theriverwindsrestaurant.com/menus/
• Caregiver Centered Care, University of Alberta: https://www.caregivercare.ca/
• Former Gov. Marty Schreiber’s Story: https://www.invisibleemployeesbook.com/real-working-caregivers-stories-1-2-1
• My Two Elaines by Marty Schreiber: https://mytwoelaines.com/
• Paul Wynn on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulwynn/
• Zack’s challenge to organizations – be the first to support Well Spouse Association: https://wellspouse.org/

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast and leave a review. Remember to check out our website at invisibleemployeeadvocates.com for more resources, and subscribe to our newsletter for updates! We’ll catch you in the next episode.