The Hart Of It All with Teri Hart

Eleven months, 46 episodes and countless conversations later, what has The Hart of It All taught us about caregiving? In the season one finale, Teri Hart looks back at 10 lessons that changed how she thinks about aging, caregiving and the systems families are navigating. Revisiting conversations with Alyson Schafer, Deb Galet, Beverley Wolfe, Rob Carrick, Dr. Amina Jabbar, Cathy Barrick, Neal K. Shah, Dr. Amy D'Arprix, Jordana Talsky and Dr. Saskia Sivananthan, Teri reflects on some of the season’s most practical and thought-provoking takeaways, from difficult family conversations and aging in place to dementia risk, finances, sibling conflict, legal planning and the future of caregiving. Whether you have been with us since episode one or are just discovering the podcast, this finale is a great place to catch up and think differently about caregiving. __ Resources: - Alyson Schafer's starting the conversation episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/starting-the-caregiving-conversation-without-fear/id1843639868?i=1000730606378 - Deb Galet's aging in place episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/planning-to-age-in-place-what-seniors-and-families/id1843639868?i=1000758384090 - Beverley Wolfe's hearing loss episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/why-hearing-loss-matters-more-than-we-think-with/id1843639868?i=1000741500706 - Rob Carrick's finance episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-financial-checklist-every-caregiver-needs-part-1/id1843639868?i=1000769606479 - Dr. Amina Jabbar's geriatrician's advice episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/what-a-geriatrician-wants-families-to-know-about/id1843639868?i=1000744963093 - Neal K. Shah's caregiving as a diagnosis episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/why-caregiving-should-be-treated-like-a-diagnosis/id1843639868?i=1000766195660 - Cathy Barrick's Alzheimer's episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/navigating-alzheimers-one-step-at-a-time-with/id1843639868?i=1000743945187 - Dr. Amy D'Arprix's sibling conflict episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/how-to-handle-sibling-conflict-in-caregiving-with-life/id1843639868?i=1000763992839 - Jordana Talsky's wills and executors episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-gift-of-clarity-wills-and-choosing/id1843639868?i=1000739256968 - Dr. Saskia Sivananthan Dementia Task Force episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/a-new-plan-to-support-dementia-caregivers-before/id1843639868?i=1000779836937 To watch this episode, subscribe to The Hart Of It All's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHartofitAllPod Follow The Hart Of It All: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehartofitallpod/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehartofitallpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehartofitallpod Follow Teri Hart: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terihart Co-Executive Produced by: Carrie Hayden & Jess Carroll of 6of1 Digital Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/6of1digital I’m here to share stories and conversations, not medical or professional advice. I’m not a doctor, therapist, or licensed professional, and this podcast is NOT a substitute for guidance from qualified experts. Please seek out professional support when you need it. Take care and I’ll see you in the next episode. __ 🟡 About The Hart of it All A podcast about navigating the realities of caregiving. No one should have to do it alone. That’s the heart behind The Hart of It All, hosted by Canadian broadcaster Teri Hart. Inspired by her own experience caring for her dad and helping her mom navigate a new reality, Teri shines a light on the stories, resources, and conversations caregivers need most. From doctors and nutritionists to fellow caregivers living it every day, each episode offers guidance and connection. Honest, supportive, and grounded in lived experience, The Hart of It All is here to remind us that caring for each other is something we’re all in together. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Caregiving is complicated. Caring for someone who has hurt you can be even more so. How do you protect yourself while caring for someone who caused you harm? For people caring for a parent, family member or other care recipient with whom they have a complicated or painful history, the emotional weight can be even greater. How do you step into a caregiving role without ignoring what happened in the past or sacrificing your own wellbeing? In this episode of The Hart of It All, Teri Hart speaks with registered social worker, psychotherapist and Compassion in Caregiving founder Stephanie Muskat about navigating caregiving when the relationship is anything but simple. Stephanie explains why caregiving does not have to mean reconciliation or unlimited access, and how understanding your own values can help you decide what role, if any, you want to play. She shares practical strategies for setting boundaries, preparing for difficult interactions and recognizing when guilt or shame is pushing you beyond the limits you have set for yourself. Teri and Stephanie also explore how dementia can further complicate already difficult family dynamics, why conversations about the past may not always bring the closure caregivers hope for, and how sibling relationships can become another source of tension when caregiving responsibilities are uneven. Drawing on both her professional expertise and her own years of experience as a caregiver, Stephanie offers a different way to think about boundaries: not as rigid walls, but as limits that allow caregivers to continually ask themselves what they need, what they can realistically give and why they are making the choices they are making. Not every care recipient is a “loved one,” and caregiving should not require losing yourself in the process. __ Resources: Follow Stephanie Muskat: Website: http://www.compassionincaregiving.com Listen to Stephaine's Podcast, "Caregiver's Compass": Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/caregivers-compass/id1576543499 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2U5OizDwrtCGJAzdqnMmT8 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/compassionincaregiving TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@compassionincaregiving Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/compassionincaregiving To watch this episode, subscribe to The Hart Of It All's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHartofitAllPod Follow The Hart Of It All: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehartofitallpod/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehartofitallpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehartofitallpod Follow Teri Hart: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terihart Co-Executive Produced by: Carrie Hayden & Jess Carroll of 6of1 Digital Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/6of1digital I’m here to share stories and conversations, not medical or professional advice. I’m not a doctor, therapist, or licensed professional, and this podcast is NOT a substitute for guidance from qualified experts. Please seek out professional support when you need it. Take care and I’ll see you in the next episode. __ 🟡 About The Hart of it All A podcast about navigating the realities of caregiving. No one should have to do it alone. That’s the heart behind The Hart of It All, hosted by Canadian broadcaster Teri Hart. Inspired by her own experience caring for her dad and helping her mom navigate a new reality, Teri shines a light on the stories, resources, and conversations caregivers need most. From doctors and nutritionists to fellow caregivers living it every day, each episode offers guidance and connection. Honest, supportive, and grounded in lived experience, The Hart of It All is here to remind us that caring for each other is something we’re all in together. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when being the caregiver your loved one needs means accepting that you cannot do it all yourself? In this episode of The Hart of It All, Teri Hart speaks with four-time JUNO Award nominee Shawnee Kish about becoming a caregiver to her mom, Lynn, after a catastrophic brainstem stroke changed both of their lives in December 2020. Shawnee shares the extraordinary lengths she and her wife, Jen, went to support Lynn, from navigating hospitals and rehabilitation during COVID to buying and renovating a home so they could live together and provide the support she needed. But as Shawnee tried to help her mom rebuild her life, she began to realize that recovery could not happen on her terms. Lynn had changed, her needs had changed, and Shawnee had to learn the difference between trying to fix someone’s life and supporting them as they decide what they want that life to look like. At the same time, the demands of full-time caregiving were taking a devastating toll on Shawnee’s career, marriage, motherhood and sense of self. She opens up about reaching a point where something had to change, the guilt she felt admitting she could no longer provide the level of care her mom needed, and how another major health crisis forced their family to rethink everything once again. Today, Mama Lynn is thriving with a team providing around-the-clock support, while Shawnee has found a new way to be both her daughter and her caregiver. Their relationship, she says, has never been better. This is a powerful conversation about caregiver burnout, guilt, power of attorney, family dynamics, stroke recovery and the difficult realization that sometimes the most loving thing a caregiver can do is stop trying to be the hero. Resources: Follow Shawnee Kish: Website: https://www.shawneekish.com/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shawneekish Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shawneekish/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/67KtTWjRTAU9ZkjRFnaffZ?si=70T4i4kCSvqc2YPcvLk6AA Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/shawnee-kish/1559364390 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Officialshawneekish Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shawneekish To watch this episode, subscribe to The Hart Of It All's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHartofitAllPod Follow The Hart Of It All: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehartofitallpod/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehartofitallpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehartofitallpod Follow Teri Hart: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terihart Co-Executive Produced by: Carrie Hayden & Jess Carroll of 6of1 Digital Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/6of1digital I’m here to share stories and conversations, not medical or professional advice. I’m not a doctor, therapist, or licensed professional, and this podcast is NOT a substitute for guidance from qualified experts. Please seek out professional support when you need it. Take care and I’ll see you in the next episode. - 🟡 About The Hart of it All A podcast about navigating the realities of caregiving. No one should have to do it alone. That’s the heart behind The Hart of It All, hosted by Canadian broadcaster Teri Hart. Inspired by her own experience caring for her dad and helping her mom navigate a new reality, Teri shines a light on the stories, resources, and conversations caregivers need most. From doctors and nutritionists to fellow caregivers living it every day, each episode offers guidance and connection. Honest, supportive, and grounded in lived experience, The Hart of It All is here to remind us that caring for each other is something we’re all in together. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if families had a clear path through dementia care from diagnosis? In this episode of The Hart of It All, Teri Hart speaks with Dr. Saskia Sivananthan, CEO of the Brainwell Institute, about the Ontario Dementia Task Force and its goal to transform care across the province. Dr. Sivananthan explains why caregivers need clear guidance, assessments and support before they reach burnout or crisis. She also challenges misconceptions about dementia and shares why better treatment and care are now possible. This is a hopeful conversation about building a system people living with dementia and their families no longer have to navigate alone. __ This episode is sponsored by RBC Wealth Management, a business segment of Royal Bank of Canada. This content is provided for general information only and is not intended to provide any advice nor endorsements/recommendations. All opinions and views expressed by the speaker(s) are not representative of views and opinions of RBC Wealth Management. All Information and opinions provided in this podcast are in good faith of the speaker(s), but without legal responsibility for RBC Wealth Management. A longer life means planning for the longer run. And that requires more than just financial foresight. It takes a plan that encompasses health, wellness and finances. That’s why RBC Wealth Management partners with leading organizations to help Canadians maneuver each of life’s stages with peace of mind and confidence. Learn more at: RBC Wealth Management: http://rbcwm.com/ Aging Well Hub: http://rbcwm.com/agingwell __ Resources: Learn more about The Brainwell Institute: Website: www.brainwellinstitute.org Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brainwell_institute/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Brainwell-Institute/61563530946708/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-brainwell-institute/ Contact: https://brainwellinstitute.org/contact-us/ Watch the Ontario Dementia Task Force Announcement: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q9U1tD_IIng Learn more about First Link - Dementia Supports: https://firstlinkontario.ca/ Learn more about The Alzheimer's Society of Ontario: https://www.alzheimer.ca/on/en Read "The Emperor of All Maladies": https://www.indigo.ca/products/the-emperor-of-all-maladies-a-biography-of-cancer https://www.amazon.ca/Emperor-All-Maladies-Biography-Cancer/dp/1439170916 Learn more about "The Dementia Bill" - Bill 121: https://www.ola.org/en/legislative-business/bills/parliament-43/session-1/bill-121 Follow Dr. Saskia Sivananthan: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sassy_nikali To watch this episode, subscribe to The Hart Of It All's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHartofitAllPod Follow The Hart Of It All: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehartofitallpod/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehartofitallpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehartofitallpod Follow Teri Hart: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terihart Co-Executive Produced by: Carrie Hayden & Jess Carroll of 6of1 Digital Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/6of1digital I’m here to share stories and conversations, not medical or professional advice. I’m not a doctor, therapist, or licensed professional, and this podcast is NOT a substitute for guidance from qualified experts. Please seek out professional support when you need it. Take care and I’ll see you in the next episode. - 🟡 About The Hart of it All A podcast about navigating the realities of caregiving. No one should have to do it alone. That’s the heart behind The Hart of It All, hosted by Canadian broadcaster Teri Hart. Inspired by her own experience caring for her dad and helping her mom navigate a new reality, Teri shines a light on the stories, resources, and conversations caregivers need most. From doctors and nutritionists to fellow caregivers living it every day, each episode offers guidance and connection. Honest, supportive, and grounded in lived experience, The Hart of It All is here to remind us that caring for each other is something we’re all in together. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it take to build a secure and fulfilling retirement? After decades of helping Canadians prepare for the future, The Wealthy Barber author David Chilton is now entering retirement and considering what makes those years work. David joins Teri Hart for a conversation about retirement, aging parents, and the cost of care. He shares his family’s experience navigating his 93-year-old father’s dementia, assisted living, and long-term care. Together, David and Teri explore why many Canadians believe the government will cover future care, how in-home support can reshape family finances, and why younger generations may find themselves supporting children and parents. They also discuss aging in place, home equity, and why every family’s needs are different. David explains why wills and powers of attorney are only the beginning. Honest conversations about money, housing, health, and caregiving expectations can help families avoid rushed decisions in a crisis. This episode of The Hart of It All is a hopeful reminder that retirement planning is about more than saving. It is also about health, connection, communication, purpose, and joy. __ This episode is sponsored by RBC Wealth Management, a business segment of Royal Bank of Canada. This content is provided for general information only and is not intended to provide any advice nor endorsements/recommendations. All opinions and views expressed by the speaker(s) are not representative of views and opinions of RBC Wealth Management. All Information and opinions provided in this podcast are in good faith of the speaker(s), but without legal responsibility for RBC Wealth Management. A longer life means planning for the longer run. And that requires more than just financial foresight. It takes a plan that encompasses health, wellness and finances. That’s why RBC Wealth Management partners with leading organizations to help Canadians maneuver each of life’s stages with peace of mind and confidence. Learn more at: RBC Wealth Management: http://rbcwm.com/ Aging Well Hub: http://rbcwm.com/agingwell __ Resources: Get the latest, updated version of 'The Wealthy Barber': https://www.indigo.ca/products/the-wealthy-barber-2025-indigo-exclusive Follow David Chilton: Website: https://thewealthybarber.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheWealthyBarber Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewealthybarber TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thewealthybarber Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/The-Wealthy-Barber-61553899000342/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-wealthy-barber/ To watch this episode, subscribe to The Hart Of It All's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHartofitAllPod Follow The Hart Of It All: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehartofitallpod/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehartofitallpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehartofitallpod Follow Teri Hart: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terihart Co-Executive Produced by: Carrie Hayden & Jess Carroll of 6of1 Digital Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/6of1digital I’m here to share stories and conversations, not medical or professional advice. I’m not a doctor, therapist, or licensed professional, and this podcast is NOT a substitute for guidance from qualified experts. Please seek out professional support when you need it. Take care and I’ll see you in the next episode. - 🟡 About The Hart of it All A podcast about navigating the realities of caregiving. No one should have to do it alone. That’s the heart behind The Hart of It All, hosted by Canadian broadcaster Teri Hart. Inspired by her own experience caring for her dad and helping her mom navigate a new reality, Teri shines a light on the stories, resources, and conversations caregivers need most. From doctors and nutritionists to fellow caregivers living it every day, each episode offers guidance and connection. Honest, supportive, and grounded in lived experience, The Hart of It All is here to remind us that caring for each other is something we’re all in together. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For many people, driving represents far more than getting from one place to another. It means independence, freedom, adulthood, and connection. That is why the moment an older adult can no longer safely get behind the wheel can be one of the most painful transitions a family faces. Returning guest and geriatrician Dr. Amina Jabbar joins Teri Hart on The Hart of It All to talk about what she calls “retiring from driving.” Together, they explore how families can approach the conversation with honesty and empathy, without treating age itself as the problem or making a loved one feel blamed for changes beyond their control. Dr. Jabbar explains the physical, cognitive, visual, and medical factors that can affect someone’s ability to drive safely, from dementia and vision loss to medication side effects, diabetes, limited mobility, and slower reaction times. She also shares warning signs families should watch for, including getting lost on familiar routes, drifting between lanes, driving unusually slowly, or relying on a passenger to provide constant directions. The conversation also breaks down what happens when a healthcare professional believes someone is no longer safe to drive, what Ontario drivers can expect when renewing their licence after age 80, and when an independent driving assessment may help provide clarity. But stopping driving is not only a safety issue. It can bring grief, anger, isolation, and major new responsibilities for caregivers. Teri and Dr. Jabbar discuss practical ways to prepare for the transition, from comparing the cost of car ownership with taxis and rideshares to testing out a month without driving before a crisis forces the decision. Whether you are concerned about an aging parent, supporting someone with dementia, or beginning to think about your own future behind the wheel, this episode offers compassionate language, practical next steps, and a reminder that no family should have to navigate this change alone. Resources: Learn more about Functional Driving Assessments in Ontario: https://data.ontario.ca/dataset/approved-functional-assessment-centres-for-drivers Reduced Fee Taxi Chits in Peel Region (Ontario): https://peelregion.ca/transhelp/fares-payments/taxi-vouchers To watch this episode, subscribe to The Hart Of It All's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHartofitAllPod Follow The Hart Of It All: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehartofitallpod/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehartofitallpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehartofitallpod Follow Teri Hart: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terihart Co-Executive Produced by: Carrie Hayden & Jess Carroll of 6of1 Digital Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/6of1digital I’m here to share stories and conversations, not medical or professional advice. I’m not a doctor, therapist, or licensed professional, and this podcast is NOT a substitute for guidance from qualified experts. Please seek out professional support when you need it. Take care and I’ll see you in the next episode. - 🟡 About The Hart of it All A podcast about navigating the realities of caregiving. No one should have to do it alone. That’s the heart behind The Hart of It All, hosted by Canadian broadcaster Teri Hart. Inspired by her own experience caring for her dad and helping her mom navigate a new reality, Teri shines a light on the stories, resources, and conversations caregivers need most. From doctors and nutritionists to fellow caregivers living it every day, each episode offers guidance and connection. Honest, supportive, and grounded in lived experience, The Hart of It All is here to remind us that caring for each other is something we’re all in together. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most people avoid thinking about Alzheimer’s until it touches their own lives. Hon. Lisa Raitt once felt that fear herself. But when her husband, Bruce Wood, was diagnosed with young-onset Alzheimer’s at 56, she was forced to confront the disease, gaps in Canada’s dementia care system, and realities families often navigate alone. In this candid conversation with Teri Hart, Lisa shares the path from Bruce’s diagnosis to becoming an advocate for people living with dementia and their caregivers. She opens up about seeking a second opinion, managing escalating symptoms, and facing a reality rarely discussed openly: the violence some caregivers experience when dementia alters the behaviour of someone they love. Lisa recounts the moment she realized that she and her teenage sons were no longer safe, the struggle to find Bruce appropriate medical support, and the painful acceptance that he could no longer live at home. She also explains why she publicly shared videos from some of the most frightening moments of their lives. What began as a need to be seen became a way to challenge stigma and reach isolated caregivers. Lisa and Teri also explore why caregivers need support separate from the medical care provided to their loved ones, and how grief, guilt, anger, exhaustion, fear, and love can exist at once. Lisa reflects on what she wishes she had done sooner to protect her mental health and why friends should keep showing up, even when a caregiver pulls away. Now a member of the Ontario Dementia Task Force, Lisa is pushing for a more coordinated approach to dementia care and a clearer path from diagnosis through treatment, community support, crisis care, and long-term care. This episode of The Hart of It All is essential listening for anyone caring for a person with Alzheimer’s or dementia, supporting a caregiver, or working to improve the systems families depend on. It is an honest look at what caregiving demands and why families should not have to face it alone. Resources: Learn more about The Ontario Dementia Task Force: https://alzheimer.ca/on/sites/on/files/documents/new-task-force-to-develop-roadmap-for-dementia.pdf Learn more about the Vulnerable Persons Registry (also available in areas outside of Toronto): https://www.tps.ca/services/vulnerable-persons-registry/ Follow Hon. Lisa Raitt: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisaraittmp/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisaraitt2019 LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/lisa-raitt To watch this episode, subscribe to The Hart Of It All's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHartofitAllPod Follow The Hart Of It All: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehartofitallpod/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehartofitallpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehartofitallpod Website: https://www.thehartofitall.ca/ Follow Teri Hart: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terihart Co-Executive Produced by: Carrie Hayden & Jess Carroll of 6of1 Digital Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/6of1digital Website: https://www.6of1digital.com/ I’m here to share stories and conversations, not medical or professional advice. I’m not a doctor, therapist, or licensed professional, and this podcast is NOT a substitute for guidance from qualified experts. Please seek out professional support when you need it. Take care and I’ll see you in the next episode. - 🟡 About The Hart of it All A podcast about navigating the realities of caregiving. No one should have to do it alone. That’s the heart behind The Hart of It All, hosted by Canadian broadcaster Teri Hart. Inspired by her own experience caring for her dad and helping her mom navigate a new reality, Teri shines a light on the stories, resources, and conversations caregivers need most. From doctors and nutritionists to fellow caregivers living it every day, each episode offers guidance and connection. Honest, supportive, and grounded in lived experience, The Hart of It All is here to remind us that caring for each other is something we’re all in together. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Caregivers are doing some of the most important work in our society, yet so many are doing it unpaid, unsupported, and without even realizing that “caregiver” is the word for what they have become. On this episode of The Hart of It All, host Teri Hart welcomes back CareYaya CEO Neal K. Shah to talk about the viral conversations that have struck a nerve with caregivers across North America. After his first appearance sparked a huge response online, Neal returns to dig deeper into why caregiving feels so invisible, why the healthcare system often fails to recognize it, and what caregivers actually need to feel supported. Together, Teri and Neal unpack the difference between parenting and illness-based caregiving, why so many people caring for aging parents, spouses, or loved ones with dementia or cancer keep their struggles private, and how the lack of recognition can affect everything from work to mental health to long-term financial stability. Neal also shares what he is hearing from caregivers through his work at CareYaya and from his growing online community, where his candid takes on unpaid caregiving, caregiver burnout, and the hidden cost of care have resonated with millions. This episode is for you if you are caring for a parent, spouse, family member, or friend and have ever felt like the system does not see what you are carrying. It is a frank, validating conversation about why caregiving deserves more recognition, more infrastructure, and more support. Neal Shah is the founder of CareYaya, a care innovation platform focused on scalable solutions that support caregivers and improve care quality. His work, recognized by institutions like Johns Hopkins, is helping reshape how we approach aging and care. Resources: Visit the CareYaya Website: https://www.careyaya.org/ Access CareYaya's "Yaya Guide": https://www.careyaya.org/yayaguide Follow Neal Shah: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nealkshah TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nealkshah Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nealkshahcareyaya/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neal-shah-careyaya To watch this episode, subscribe to The Hart Of It All's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHartofitAllPod Follow The Hart Of It All: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehartofitallpod/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehartofitallpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehartofitallpod Website: https://www.thehartofitall.ca/ Follow Teri Hart: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terihart Co-Executive Produced by: Carrie Hayden & Jess Carroll of 6of1 Digital Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/6of1digital Website: https://www.6of1digital.com/ I’m here to share stories and conversations, not medical or professional advice. I’m not a doctor, therapist, or licensed professional, and this podcast is NOT a substitute for guidance from qualified experts. Please seek out professional support when you need it. Take care and I’ll see you in the next episode. - 🟡 About The Hart of it All A podcast about navigating the realities of caregiving. No one should have to do it alone. That’s the heart behind The Hart of It All, hosted by Canadian broadcaster Teri Hart. Inspired by her own experience caring for her dad and helping her mom navigate a new reality, Teri shines a light on the stories, resources, and conversations caregivers need most. From doctors and nutritionists to fellow caregivers living it every day, each episode offers guidance and connection. Honest, supportive, and grounded in lived experience, The Hart of It All is here to remind us that caring for each other is something we’re all in together. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does the emergency room reveal about the future of care in Canada? In this episode of The Hart of It All, Teri Hart sits down with Dr. Brian Goldman, emergency physician, author, and longtime healthcare advocate, to talk about what Canada’s overwhelmed ERs are telling us about the deeper cracks in our healthcare system. Drawing from his book The Casino Shift, Dr. Goldman explains how hospital overcrowding, long-term care waitlists, primary care shortages, and a lack of home care support are all connected. For caregivers, those cracks are not abstract. They show up when an aging parent waits for hours in an emergency room, when a loved one with dementia has nowhere to go, when a small-town hospital is forced to close, or when family members are sent home expected to manage medical tasks they were never trained to do. Teri and Dr. Goldman also explore what Canada could learn from countries like Denmark, where nearly everyone has access to a family doctor and after-hours care is built into the system. They talk about the risks and realities of private healthcare, why small community hospitals matter so much, how technology and AI may change medicine, and why empathy still has a critical role in healthcare. This conversation is for caregivers, healthcare workers, families with aging loved ones, and anyone worried about the future of healthcare in Canada. It is a clear-eyed look at a system under pressure, but also a reminder that better care is possible if we are willing to rethink how the system works. -- Resources: Read Dr. Brian Goldman's new book, "The Casino Shift": https://www.indigo.ca/products/the-casino-shift https://www.amazon.ca/Casino-Shift-Stories-ER-Edge/dp/1443473588 Follow Dr. Brian Goldman: X/Twitter: https://x.com/NightShiftMD Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/casinoshiftmd.bsky.social To watch this episode, subscribe to The Hart Of It All's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHartofitAllPod Follow The Hart Of It All: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehartofitallpod/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehartofitallpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehartofitallpod Website: https://www.thehartofitall.ca/ Follow Teri Hart: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terihart Co-Executive Produced by: Carrie Hayden & Jess Carroll of 6of1 Digital Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/6of1digital Website: https://www.6of1digital.com/ I’m here to share stories and conversations, not medical or professional advice. I’m not a doctor, therapist, or licensed professional, and this podcast is NOT a substitute for guidance from qualified experts. Please seek out professional support when you need it. Take care and I’ll see you in the next episode. __ 🟡 About The Hart of it All A podcast about navigating the realities of caregiving. No one should have to do it alone. That’s the heart behind The Hart of It All, hosted by Canadian broadcaster Teri Hart. Inspired by her own experience caring for her dad and helping her mom navigate a new reality, Teri shines a light on the stories, resources, and conversations caregivers need most. From doctors and nutritionists to fellow caregivers living it every day, each episode offers guidance and connection. Honest, supportive, and grounded in lived experience, The Hart of It All is here to remind us that caring for each other is something we’re all in together. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The hidden crisis in Canadian seniors' care: why so many wait in limbo and how for-profit chains profit at their expense Imagine a system where 70% of long-term care homes are owned by private corporations, yet they profit from taxpayer dollars meant for vulnerable seniors. Meanwhile, over 50,000 Ontarians await a spot in these facilities, living in hospitals, transitional units, or at home, often in dangerous limbo. Is this the care Canada prides itself on? Melissa Miller, an elder law expert and advocate for seniors, pulls back the curtain on systemic failures, including underfunded staffing, maintenance shortcuts, and the profit motive that jeopardizes quality of life. She reveals how COVID laid bare these vulnerabilities and explains the complex maze families are forced to navigate: the distinctions between retirement communities, long-term care, and nursing homes, and why the lines blur when escalating needs arise. With jaw-dropping insights, Melissa details how for-profit chains cut corners on infrastructure, how government inspections often fail, and why the entire funding model is broken. Discover why choices matter, from the realities of aging in place to the risky waitlist for long-term care. You'll learn practical strategies to recognize quality care, including what to look for beyond fancy lobbies and luxe amenities. Melissa shares transparent resources to look up licensing and inspection reports, empowering families to advocate fiercely. And as demand for seniors’ care continues to grow, her insights are a wake-up call for policy change and community action. Whether you're a caregiver, a concerned family member, or someone planning your future, this episode exposes the urgent need to rethink aging and elder care before more lives are caught in the cracks of a deeply flawed system. If you believe care should prioritize dignity over profit, this episode is essential listening. Get ready to question everything you thought you knew about seniors’ care and discover how you can help push for transparency, accountability, and real reform. -- Resources: Watch the Documentary "Stolen Time" featuring Melissa: NFB Website: https://www.nfb.ca/film/stolen-time/ Prime Video: https://www.primevideo.com/detail/0QMXDD9IRP9J5KYAXT0S2GUUEO Follow Melissa Miller: Website: https://hshlawyers.com/team/melissa-miller Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/millermelawyer/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-miller-16524320/ To watch this episode, subscribe to The Hart Of It All's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHartofitAllPod Follow The Hart Of It All: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehartofitallpod/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehartofitallpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehartofitallpod Website: https://www.thehartofitall.ca/ Follow Teri Hart: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terihart Co-Executive Produced by: Carrie Hayden & Jess Carroll of 6of1 Digital Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/6of1digital Website: https://www.6of1digital.com/ I’m here to share stories and conversations, not medical or professional advice. I’m not a doctor, therapist, or licensed professional, and this podcast is NOT a substitute for guidance from qualified experts. Please seek out professional support when you need it. Take care and I’ll see you in the next episode. __ 🟡 About The Hart of it All A podcast about navigating the realities of caregiving. No one should have to do it alone. That’s the heart behind The Hart of It All, hosted by Canadian broadcaster Teri Hart. Inspired by her own experience caring for her dad and helping her mom navigate a new reality, Teri shines a light on the stories, resources, and conversations caregivers need most. From doctors and nutritionists to fellow caregivers living it every day, each episode offers guidance and connection. Honest, supportive, and grounded in lived experience, The Hart of It All is here to remind us that caring for each other is something we’re all in together. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does meaningful support look like when someone’s life has changed overnight? In this episode of The Hart of It All, Teri Hart sits down with Catherine Wreford, Broadway performer, Amazing Race Canada winner, brain cancer advocate, mother, and someone who knows what it means to both support others and receive support herself. Catherine was diagnosed with brain cancer at 32, just weeks after giving birth to her second child. She was told she had two to six years to live. Thirteen years later, she is still performing, parenting, advocating, and helping change the conversation around brain cancer, serious illness, and what meaningful support actually looks like. Catherine shares the moments that made the biggest difference during treatment, from friends who brought the food she actually loved, to a freezer full of donated breast milk, to the people who learned how to help without making her feel like a burden. She also talks about scan anxiety, self-advocacy in the healthcare system, what not to say to someone with cancer, and why emotional support can matter just as much as practical help. This episode is for anyone supporting a loved one through illness, navigating a serious diagnosis, or wondering how to show up when words fall short. Catherine’s story is honest, funny, generous, and full of reminders that the best support often starts with listening. -- Resources: Follow Catherine Wreford: Website: https://catherine-wreford.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catherinewreford/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/catherine.ledlow/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/catherine-wreford-09522ab To watch this episode, subscribe to The Hart Of It All's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHartofitAllPod Follow The Hart Of It All: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehartofitallpod/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehartofitallpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehartofitallpod Website: https://www.thehartofitall.ca/ Follow Teri Hart: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terihart Co-Executive Produced by: Carrie Hayden & Jess Carroll of 6of1 Digital Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/6of1digital Website: https://www.6of1digital.com/ I’m here to share stories and conversations, not medical or professional advice. I’m not a doctor, therapist, or licensed professional, and this podcast is NOT a substitute for guidance from qualified experts. Please seek out professional support when you need it. Take care and I’ll see you in the next episode. __ 🟡 About The Hart of it All A podcast about navigating the realities of caregiving. No one should have to do it alone. That’s the heart behind The Hart of It All, hosted by Canadian broadcaster Teri Hart. Inspired by her own experience caring for her dad and helping her mom navigate a new reality, Teri shines a light on the stories, resources, and conversations caregivers need most. From doctors and nutritionists to fellow caregivers living it every day, each episode offers guidance and connection. Honest, supportive, and grounded in lived experience, The Hart of It All is here to remind us that caring for each other is something we’re all in together. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The housing crisis can feel especially frightening for senior women living alone. With rising rents, limited pension income, and few affordable options, the question of where and how to live can become urgent very quickly. In this episode, Teri Hart speaks with Pat Dunn, founder of Senior Women Living Together, about her own experience facing housing insecurity and the community-based solution she created in response. Teri and Pat discuss why so many senior women are financially vulnerable, how caregiving and the gender pension gap contribute to the problem, and why shared living can offer affordability, safety, friendship, and dignity. This episode is for anyone worried about the cost of aging, supporting an older woman through housing decisions, or looking for hopeful alternatives to aging alone. __ This episode is sponsored by RBC Wealth Management, a business segment of Royal Bank of Canada. This content is provided for general information only and is not intended to provide any advice nor endorsements/recommendations. All opinions and views expressed by the speaker(s) are not representative of views and opinions of RBC Wealth Management. All Information and opinions provided in this podcast are in good faith of the speaker(s), but without legal responsibility for RBC Wealth Management. A longer life means planning for the longer run. And that requires more than just financial foresight. It takes a plan that encompasses health, wellness and finances. That’s why RBC Wealth Management partners with leading organizations to help Canadians maneuver each of life’s stages with peace of mind and confidence. Learn more at: RBC Wealth Management: http://rbcwm.com/ Aging Well Hub: http://rbcwm.com/agingwell __ Resources: Follow Senior Women Living Together Website: https://swlt.ca/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576221544918 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swlt.ca/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/senior-women-living-together-swlt/ Single Seniors For Tax Fairness: https://www.singleseniorsfortaxfairness.com/ Seniors Social Action Ontario: https://www.seniorsactionontario.com/ To watch this episode, subscribe to The Hart Of It All's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHartofitAllPod Follow The Hart Of It All: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehartofitallpod/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehartofitallpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehartofitallpod Website: https://www.thehartofitall.ca/ Follow Teri Hart: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terihart Co-Executive Produced by: Carrie Hayden & Jess Carroll of 6of1 Digital Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/6of1digital Website: https://www.6of1digital.com/ I’m here to share stories and conversations, not medical or professional advice. I’m not a doctor, therapist, or licensed professional, and this podcast is NOT a substitute for guidance from qualified experts. Please seek out professional support when you need it. Take care and I’ll see you in the next episode. __ 🟡 About The Hart of it All A podcast about navigating the realities of caregiving. No one should have to do it alone. That’s the heart behind The Hart of It All, hosted by Canadian broadcaster Teri Hart. Inspired by her own experience caring for her dad and helping her mom navigate a new reality, Teri shines a light on the stories, resources, and conversations caregivers need most. From doctors and nutritionists to fellow caregivers living it every day, each episode offers guidance and connection. Honest, supportive, and grounded in lived experience, The Hart of It All is here to remind us that caring for each other is something we’re all in together. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The financial side of caregiving can feel overwhelming, especially when aging parents want to stay at home. But understanding the options early can bring clarity, relief, and a stronger sense of control. In the last episode, personal finance expert Rob Carrick walked through a practical financial checklist to help caregivers start important money conversations with aging parents. In Part 2 of his conversation with Teri Hart, Rob goes deeper into the financial realities families may face as parents age, especially when they want to age in place. Teri and Rob unpack the difference between a home equity line of credit (HELOC) and a reverse mortgage, how care costs can reshape expectations around inheritance, and why the so-called “great wealth transfer” may not be as straightforward as many families think. They also discuss registered retirement savings plans (RRSPs), registered retirement income funds (RRIFs), tax-free savings accounts (TFSAs), estate planning, and the often-misunderstood tax implications that can come later in life. This episode is for anyone helping aging parents make financial decisions, trying to understand the cost of aging in place, or wondering how to have more honest conversations about money, care, and quality of life before a crisis hits. As Rob shares from both his professional expertise and his own caregiving experience, the “care years” are something many families enter with little preparation, but the right conversations can make those years easier to navigate. __ This episode is sponsored by RBC Wealth Management, a business segment of Royal Bank of Canada. This content is provided for general information only and is not intended to provide any advice nor endorsements/recommendations. All opinions and views expressed by the speaker(s) are not representative of views and opinions of RBC Wealth Management. All Information and opinions provided in this podcast are in good faith of the speaker(s), but without legal responsibility for RBC Wealth Management. A longer life means planning for the longer run. And that requires more than just financial foresight. It takes a plan that encompasses health, wellness and finances. That’s why RBC Wealth Management partners with leading organizations to help Canadians maneuver each of life’s stages with peace of mind and confidence. Learn more at: RBC Wealth Management: http://rbcwm.com/ Aging Well Hub: http://rbcwm.com/agingwell __ Resources: Follow Rob Carrick: Website: https://robcarrick.ca/ Substack: https://robcarrickpf.substack.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-carrick-66a6a017/ To watch this episode, subscribe to The Hart Of It All's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHartofitAllPod Follow The Hart Of It All: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehartofitallpod/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehartofitallpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehartofitallpod Website: https://www.thehartofitall.ca/ Follow Teri Hart: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terihart Co-Executive Produced by: Carrie Hayden & Jess Carroll of 6of1 Digital Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/6of1digital Website: https://www.6of1digital.com/ __ 🟡 About The Hart of it All A podcast about navigating the realities of caregiving. No one should have to do it alone. That’s the heart behind The Hart of It All, hosted by Canadian broadcaster Teri Hart. Inspired by her own experience caring for her dad and helping her mom navigate a new reality, Teri shines a light on the stories, resources, and conversations caregivers need most. From doctors and nutritionists to fellow caregivers living it every day, each episode offers guidance and connection. Honest, supportive, and grounded in lived experience, The Hart of It All is here to remind us that caring for each other is something we’re all in together. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Money is one of the hardest parts of caregiving to talk about, but it is also one of the most important. In this episode of The Hart of It All, Teri Hart sits down with longtime personal finance expert Rob Carrick for part one of a two-part conversation about the financial realities of aging, caregiving, and planning for the future. From aging in place to retirement homes, long-term care, home equity, personal support workers, and the hidden costs families often do not see coming, Rob explains why the question is not just “What do we want?” but “What can we realistically afford?” Rob also shares a practical financial checklist for adult children supporting aging parents, including what to know about joint bank accounts, monthly expenses, power of attorney, investments, taxes, beneficiaries, and current ID. It is a conversation about preparation, clarity, and having the money talks before a crisis forces your hand. Whether you are caring for a parent now or trying to plan ahead, this episode will help you understand the financial decisions that can shape care, housing, and peace of mind. And because there is so much to cover, Rob will be back next week for part two, where he and Teri dive deeper into RRIFs, home equity lines of credit, reverse mortgages, and the tax implications families need to understand. Resources: Follow Rob Carrick: Website: https://robcarrick.ca/ Substack: https://robcarrickpf.substack.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-carrick-66a6a017/ To watch this episode, subscribe to The Hart Of It All's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHartofitAllPod Follow The Hart Of It All: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehartofitallpod/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehartofitallpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehartofitallpod Website: https://www.thehartofitall.ca/ Follow Teri Hart: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terihart Co-Executive Produced by: Carrie Hayden & Jess Carroll of 6of1 Digital Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/6of1digital Website: https://www.6of1digital.com/ I’m here to share stories and conversations, not medical or professional advice. I’m not a doctor, therapist, or licensed professional, and this podcast is NOT a substitute for guidance from qualified experts. Please seek out professional support when you need it. Take care and I’ll see you in the next episode. - 🟡 About The Hart of it All A podcast about navigating the realities of caregiving. No one should have to do it alone. That’s the heart behind The Hart of It All, hosted by Canadian broadcaster Teri Hart. Inspired by her own experience caring for her dad and helping her mom navigate a new reality, Teri shines a light on the stories, resources, and conversations caregivers need most. From doctors and nutritionists to fellow caregivers living it every day, each episode offers guidance and connection. Honest, supportive, and grounded in lived experience, The Hart of It All is here to remind us that caring for each other is something we’re all in together. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Caregiving in Canada is not a private family issue. It is one of the biggest social, economic, and healthcare realities of our time. In this episode of The Hart of It All, Teri Hart speaks with Liv Mendelsohn, Executive Director of the Canadian Centre for Caregiving Excellence, about CCCE’s newly released Caring in Canada report and what it reveals about the true state of care across the country. Liv shares the staggering scale of unpaid caregiving in Canada, including the estimated $97.1 billion in unpaid care provided each year by family members, friends, and loved ones. She also explains how caregivers are managing far more than many people realize, from medical appointments and daily tasks to emotional support, transportation, advocacy, and the invisible labour that keeps families and communities going. This conversation looks honestly at the pressure caregivers and care providers are facing, including burnout, financial strain, health impacts, and a system that too often relies on families to fill the gaps. But it is not a conversation without hope. Liv also breaks down the clear, practical solutions already identified through CCCE’s National Caregiving Strategy, which was co-designed with caregivers, care providers, and endorsed by more than 85 national and provincial organizations. From refundable caregiver tax credits to better income supports, aging-in-place policies, and stronger recognition of caregivers in healthcare planning, Liv explains what can change and why those changes matter. This episode is for anyone caring for someone they love, preparing for what may come next, or trying to understand why caregiving belongs at the centre of Canada’s healthcare conversation. The numbers are big, but the message is clear: caregivers are not alone, and a better system is possible. Resources: Read the CCCE's "Caring in Canada" Report: https://canadiancaregiving.org/caring-in-canada/ Follow Liv Mendelsohn and The Canadian Centre for Caregiving Excellence Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canadiancaregiving Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/canadiancaregiving CCCE on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/canadiancaregiving/ Liv on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liv-mendelsohn-m-a-m-ed-60000b5a/ To watch this episode, subscribe to The Hart Of It All's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHartofitAllPod Follow The Hart Of It All: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehartofitallpod/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehartofitallpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehartofitallpod Website: https://www.thehartofitall.ca/ Follow Teri Hart: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terihart Co-Executive Produced by: Carrie Hayden & Jess Carroll of 6of1 Digital Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/6of1digital Website: https://www.6of1digital.com/ I’m here to share stories and conversations, not medical or professional advice. I’m not a doctor, therapist, or licensed professional, and this podcast is NOT a substitute for guidance from qualified experts. Please seek out professional support when you need it. Take care and I’ll see you in the next episode. - 🟡 About The Hart of it All A podcast about navigating the realities of caregiving. No one should have to do it alone. That’s the heart behind The Hart of It All, hosted by Canadian broadcaster Teri Hart. Inspired by her own experience caring for her dad and helping her mom navigate a new reality, Teri shines a light on the stories, resources, and conversations caregivers need most. From doctors and nutritionists to fellow caregivers living it every day, each episode offers guidance and connection. Honest, supportive, and grounded in lived experience, The Hart of It All is here to remind us that caring for each other is something we’re all in together. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A lot of people dealing with dementia caregiving quietly wonder: Is it supposed to feel this overwhelming? Troy McCallum understands the kind of exhaustion that comes from constantly being “on” for someone you love. As his mother’s dementia progressed, Troy found himself trying to manage everything at once: the confusion, the wandering, the emotional volatility, the constant fear that something could go wrong. He was exhausted, anxious, and running on adrenaline for so long that his own health began to suffer. In this episode of The Hart of It All, Troy opens up about the reality so many caregivers live behind closed doors. The guilt of setting boundaries. The pressure to always be available. The feeling that your own life is slowly disappearing while you try to hold someone else’s together. From using smart home devices, cameras, and AirTags to help his mom stay safe, to learning when he needed to step back and protect his own well-being, Troy shares the practical strategies that made caregiving feel more manageable. Troy speaks candidly about navigating long-term care, managing the emotional toll of dementia, and the importance of recognizing your own limits before burnout takes over. If you’ve ever felt isolated, burnt out, resentful, scared, or like you’re failing at caregiving because you can’t do it all perfectly, this episode will feel deeply familiar. More importantly, it may help you feel a little less alone. Troy is a media professional and the creator/host of DEMENCHATS, an Instagram account documenting the everyday realities of dementia caregiving with honesty, humour, and compassion. Resources: VON Home and Community Care: https://www.von.ca/en Follow Troy McCallum & DEMENCHATS: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/demenchats To watch this episode, subscribe to The Hart Of It All's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHartofitAllPod Follow The Hart Of It All: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehartofitallpod/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehartofitallpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehartofitallpod Website: https://www.thehartofitall.ca/ Follow Teri Hart: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terihart Co-Executive Produced by: Carrie Hayden & Jess Carroll of 6of1 Digital Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/6of1digital Website: https://www.6of1digital.com/ I’m here to share stories and conversations, not medical or professional advice. I’m not a doctor, therapist, or licensed professional, and this podcast is NOT a substitute for guidance from qualified experts. Please seek out professional support when you need it. Take care and I’ll see you in the next episode. - 🟡 About The Hart of it All A podcast about navigating the realities of caregiving. No one should have to do it alone. That’s the heart behind The Hart of It All, hosted by Canadian broadcaster Teri Hart. Inspired by her own experience caring for her dad and helping her mom navigate a new reality, Teri shines a light on the stories, resources, and conversations caregivers need most. From doctors and nutritionists to fellow caregivers living it every day, each episode offers guidance and connection. Honest, supportive, and grounded in lived experience, The Hart of It All is here to remind us that caring for each other is something we’re all in together. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Caregiving is not just a personal challenge. It is quickly becoming one of the biggest healthcare issues of our time. On this episode of The Hart of It All, host Teri Hart sits down with Neal Shah, founder of CareYaya, to explore why caregiving needs to be treated as a core part of our healthcare system, not an afterthought. Neal shares his journey from hedge fund leader to caregiver advocate, and breaks down the hidden ways caregiving impacts physical and mental health. From rising hospitalization rates to increased dementia risk, the ripple effects are far more serious and widespread than most people realize. Together, Teri and Neal unpack what is driving the growing caregiving crisis, including aging populations, social isolation, and the long-term impact of COVID. They also explore what is working, from AI-powered training tools like the Yaya Guide to innovative care models in countries like those in Scandinavia, and why policy reform is urgently needed. This episode is for you if you are a caregiver, supporting aging parents, or thinking about what care might look like for your own future. It is both a wake-up call and a hopeful look at how we can better support caregivers and build a more sustainable system for everyone. Neal Shah is the founder of CareYaya, a care innovation platform focused on scalable solutions that support caregivers and improve care quality. His work, recognized by institutions like Johns Hopkins, is helping reshape how we approach aging and care. Resources: Visit the CareYaya Website: https://www.careyaya.org/ Access CareYaya's "Yaya Guide": https://www.careyaya.org/yayaguide Follow Neal Shah: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nealkshah TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nealkshah Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nealkshahcareyaya/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neal-shah-careyaya To watch this episode, subscribe to The Hart Of It All's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHartofitAllPod Follow The Hart Of It All: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehartofitallpod/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehartofitallpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehartofitallpod Website: https://www.thehartofitall.ca/ Follow Teri Hart: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terihart Co-Executive Produced by: Carrie Hayden & Jess Carroll of 6of1 Digital Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/6of1digital Website: https://www.6of1digital.com/ I’m here to share stories and conversations, not medical or professional advice. I’m not a doctor, therapist, or licensed professional, and this podcast is NOT a substitute for guidance from qualified experts. Please seek out professional support when you need it. Take care and I’ll see you in the next episode. - 🟡 About The Hart of it All A podcast about navigating the realities of caregiving. No one should have to do it alone. That’s the heart behind The Hart of It All, hosted by Canadian broadcaster Teri Hart. Inspired by her own experience caring for her dad and helping her mom navigate a new reality, Teri shines a light on the stories, resources, and conversations caregivers need most. From doctors and nutritionists to fellow caregivers living it every day, each episode offers guidance and connection. Honest, supportive, and grounded in lived experience, The Hart of It All is here to remind us that caring for each other is something we’re all in together. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When it comes to caring for aging parents, siblings can be the hardest part. You might agree on everything for years, and then suddenly you’re facing decisions about care, money, or where your parent should live and nothing feels simple anymore. Old dynamics resurface, tensions build, and conversations that should bring you together can start to pull you apart. In this episode of The Hart of It All, Teri sits down with family dynamics expert Dr. Amy D’Aprix to unpack why caregiving can turn siblings into what she calls “business partners you didn’t ask for” and how to navigate it without damaging the relationships that matter most. This episode is for you if you’re feeling frustrated with a sibling, carrying more than your share of the caregiving load, or unsure how to have conversations that don’t spiral. It’s also for you if you want to get ahead of conflict before it starts. Dr. Amy brings clarity to what can feel incredibly messy, sharing practical ways to start honest conversations, find common ground, and ask for help without resentment taking over. You’ll also hear about the “40–70 rule” for starting these conversations earlier than most families do, and why it’s never too late to begin. Because caregiving doesn’t just impact your parents. It shapes the relationship you’ll have with your siblings long after they’re gone. Resources: Download Dr. Amy's Caregiving Task Planner: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ux37Nh2tbFheByEXYTybn2S88wGR6MDM/view?usp=sharing Download Dr. Amy's "Essential Conversation Process" Guide https://drive.google.com/file/d/14l0w2UKGEOl8bGD18Z-KUdIyIg3OuMIn/view?usp=sharing Follow Dr. Amy D'Aprix: Website: https://www.dramy.life/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dramydaprix To watch this episode, subscribe to The Hart Of It All's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHartofitAllPod Follow The Hart Of It All: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehartofitallpod/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehartofitallpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehartofitallpod Follow Teri Hart: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terihart Co-Executive Produced by: Carrie Hayden & Jess Carroll of 6of1 Digital Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/6of1digital Website: https://www.6of1digital.com/ I’m here to share stories and conversations, not medical or professional advice. I’m not a doctor, therapist, or licensed professional, and this podcast is NOT a substitute for guidance from qualified experts. Please seek out professional support when you need it. Take care and I’ll see you in the next episode. - 🟡 About The Hart of it All A podcast about navigating the realities of caregiving. No one should have to do it alone. That’s the heart behind The Hart of It All, hosted by Canadian broadcaster Teri Hart. Inspired by her own experience caring for her dad and helping her mom navigate a new reality, Teri shines a light on the stories, resources, and conversations caregivers need most. From doctors and nutritionists to fellow caregivers living it every day, each episode offers guidance and connection. Honest, supportive, and grounded in lived experience, The Hart of It All is here to remind us that caring for each other is something we’re all in together. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if saying goodbye felt more like a celebration than a loss? Teri sits down with wedding and event planner Trevor Frankfort to explore how we can rethink end-of-life gatherings in a way that feels personal, meaningful, and even uplifting. Instead of defaulting to tradition, Trevor shares how a celebration of life can reflect who someone truly was, from their favourite music and meals to the stories and moments that defined them. Through real examples, including a concert-style tribute for a music lover and a backyard barbecue filled with family recipes, this conversation shows what’s possible when we shift the focus from mourning to remembering. It is not about ignoring grief, but about creating space for connection, laughter, and authenticity alongside it. Teri and Trevor also walk through the practical side of planning. What questions should you ask ahead of time? How do you structure a meaningful event? What role can things like location, speakers, or even livestreaming play in bringing people together? At its core, this episode is about intention. About asking what truly honours a life, and having the courage to do things differently. Whether you are planning ahead, supporting someone else, or simply starting to think about these conversations, this episode offers both guidance and inspiration for creating a farewell that feels as unique as the person it celebrates. Resources: Follow Trevor Frankfort: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/treventsplanner/z TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@treventsplanner Website: https://trevents.ca/ To watch this episode, subscribe to The Hart Of It All's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHartofitAllPod Follow The Hart Of It All: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehartofitallpod/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehartofitallpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehartofitallpod Follow Teri Hart: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terihart Co-Executive Produced by: Carrie Hayden & Jess Carroll of 6of1 Digital Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/6of1digital Website: https://www.6of1digital.com/ I’m here to share stories and conversations, not medical or professional advice. I’m not a doctor, therapist, or licensed professional, and this podcast is NOT a substitute for guidance from qualified experts. Please seek out professional support when you need it. Take care and I’ll see you in the next episode. - 🟡 About The Hart of it All A podcast about navigating the realities of caregiving. No one should have to do it alone. That’s the heart behind The Hart of It All, hosted by Canadian broadcaster Teri Hart. Inspired by her own experience caring for her dad and helping her mom navigate a new reality, Teri shines a light on the stories, resources, and conversations caregivers need most. From doctors and nutritionists to fellow caregivers living it every day, each episode offers guidance and connection. Honest, supportive, and grounded in lived experience, The Hart of It All is here to remind us that caring for each other is something we’re all in together. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most people don’t realize how much caregiving reshapes you until you are living it. When sportscaster Evanka Osmak’s mother was diagnosed with ALS, everything changed quickly. What followed was a period of intense caregiving, difficult decisions, and the emotional weight of watching someone you love decline. In this episode, Evanka reflects on that time with honesty and clarity. She shares what it looked like to balance her career with being present for her mom, Jeanne, and how she navigated the uncertainty and pressure that often comes with end-of-life care. She also speaks to the ways she coped, including moments where she found herself compartmentalizing just to get through the day. Evanka’s experience is also at the heart of her new book, "When the Game Changes: Losing My Mum and Finding Myself", where she explores her mother’s illness and death, and the unexpected role hockey played in helping her reconnect with herself. In this conversation, she opens up about finding small but meaningful pockets of relief, and why those moments mattered more than she ever expected. We also talk about the importance of honest conversations around end-of-life wishes, the role of community during overwhelming times, and the reality that caregiving is not something you are meant to do alone. Evanka shares what helped her navigate that period and what it looked like to keep showing up through it. This is a grounded, deeply human conversation about love, loss, and what it means to keep going when life asks everything of you. If you are supporting someone through illness, or trying to make sense of your own experience with grief and caregiving, there is a lot here that will stay with you. Resources: Read Evanka's new book, "When the Game Changes: Losing My Mum and Finding Myself" https://www.amazon.ca/When-Game-Changes-Losing-Finding-ebook/dp/B0FCG5TVT9 https://www.indigo.ca/en-ca/when-the-game-changes-losing-my-mum-and-finding-myself/9781668057926.html Follow Evanka Osmak: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evankaosmak/ Website: https://www.evankaosmak.com/ To watch this episode, subscribe to The Hart Of It All's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHartofitAllPod Follow The Hart Of It All: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehartofitallpod/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehartofitallpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehartofitallpod Follow Teri Hart: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terihart Co-Executive Produced by: Carrie Hayden & Jess Carroll of 6of1 Digital Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/6of1digital Website: https://www.6of1digital.com/ I’m here to share stories and conversations, not medical or professional advice. I’m not a doctor, therapist, or licensed professional, and this podcast is NOT a substitute for guidance from qualified experts. Please seek out professional support when you need it. Take care and I’ll see you in the next episode. - 🟡 About The Hart of it All A podcast about navigating the realities of caregiving. No one should have to do it alone. That’s the heart behind The Hart of It All, hosted by Canadian broadcaster Teri Hart. Inspired by her own experience caring for her dad and helping her mom navigate a new reality, Teri shines a light on the stories, resources, and conversations caregivers need most. From doctors and nutritionists to fellow caregivers living it every day, each episode offers guidance and connection. Honest, supportive, and grounded in lived experience, The Hart of It All is here to remind us that caring for each other is something we’re all in together. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.