Focused Healthy Family Podcast

Gina and Don are doing something a little different in this episode — they pull back the curtain and share a conversation from another podcast where Don becomes the guest. Inside this episode, they introduce and react to Don's appearance on the Network Build Grow podcast with Melissa Taylor, founder of the Network Build Grow networking organization. Together they explore how Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT tapping) unexpectedly connects to business growth, relationships, confidence, and communication. You'll hear the full conversation embedded in the show — including how Don stumbled into EFT, why a "strange tapping thing" actually works, and how emotional regulation directly affects networking success, leadership, and entrepreneurship. This episode blends personal story, business insight, and practical mindset tools — showing that business problems are often emotional problems wearing professional clothes. Whether you run a company, attend networking groups, or just feel nervous introducing yourself in a room full of strangers… this conversation might explain why. Because sometimes the best business strategy… is calming your nervous system first. https://www.networkbuildgrow.com   #FocusedHealthyFamily #NetworkBuildGrow #EmotionalFreedomTechniques #EFTTapping #BusinessMindset #NetworkingSkills #EntrepreneurLife #CommunicationSkills #ConfidenceBuilding #StressRelief #ProfessionalGrowth #SmallBusinessOwners #LeadershipDevelopment #MentalFitness #WeirdButItWorks

In this deeply meaningful episode of the Focused Healthy Family podcast, Gina and Don sit down with their mentor, Jan Luther of JanLuther.com, to explore a truth many families never hear out loud: What we often label as overwhelm, burnout, or lack of support when caring for a loved one with dementia is, at its core, grief. As an aging loved one slowly declines due to dementia, families begin grieving long before death occurs—grieving the loss of personality, connection, shared memories, and future dreams. This episode unpacks anticipatory grief, why it's so often misunderstood, and how failing to name it can leave caregivers feeling isolated, exhausted, and emotionally stuck. Jan, a trusted guide in grief and Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), helps reframe the caregiving experience with compassion and clarity. Together, the three discuss how acknowledging grief—rather than just "managing stress"—can be a turning point in healing. You'll also be guided through a gentle EFT tapping segment, offering listeners a practical way to release emotional weight, calm the nervous system, and feel supported in the midst of loss. This conversation is for anyone caring for a loved one with dementia, navigating end-of-life changes, or wondering why "more support" doesn't seem to touch the deeper pain. If you've ever felt overwhelmed and unseen, this episode may help you finally name what your heart already knows. Jan Luther, The EGO Tamer® Emotional Freedom & Mindset Mastery Coach Jan Luther is a Master Coach, author, and speaker recognized as a leading authority on emotional freedom and subconscious reprogramming. Known as "The EGO Tamer®" and the "Chiropractor for Your Soul," Jan specializes in helping high-performers, leaders, and individuals dismantle the mental and spiritual blockages—collectively known as the "EGO"—that prevent them from living their Divine Purpose. www.janluther.com https://www.facebook.com/JanLutherTheEGOTamer https://www.linkedin.com/in/janluther/ https://www.instagram.com/thejanluther/ #FocusedHealthyFamily #GriefNotJustBurnout #DementiaCaregiving #AnticipatoryGrief #CaregiverSupport #EFTTapping #EmotionalHealing #EndOfLifeCare #DementiaJourney #CaregiverGrief #MentalHealthForCaregivers

In this episode of the Focused Healthy Family podcast, Gina and Don explore the powerful role hobbies play in healthy aging—especially for seniors who have retired and suddenly find themselves with extra time and fewer daily responsibilities. Retirement can be a joyful transition, but it can also bring boredom, loneliness, and a loss of purpose. Drawing from insights shared by caregivers and older adults, Gina and Don discuss simple, practical ways seniors can develop hobbies at home to relax, stay engaged, and find fulfillment. From reading, puzzles, gardening, and crafts to listening to music, journaling, baking, light exercise, and even learning something new, hobbies can bring structure, joy, and mental stimulation into daily life. They also highlight how hobbies can reduce stress, boost mood, and support cognitive and emotional health—offering seniors a sense of accomplishment and connection during retirement. Research shows that engaging in enjoyable activities can improve mental well-being, enhance cognitive function, and increase overall life satisfaction for older adults. Whether you are a caregiver, adult child, or senior yourself, this episode offers encouragement and ideas to help turn retirement into a season of discovery, creativity, and meaningful living. Article on Hobbies and Aging https://www.agingcare.com/questions/what-activities-as-a-caregiver-do-at-home-to-relax-191743.htm For 50 tips for new hobbies https://www.familyhoodcentral.com/50-essential-tips-for-learning-a-new-hobby/ #FocusedHealthyFamily #SeniorHobbies #HealthyAging #RetirementLife #CaregiverSupport #AgingWell #SeniorWellness #LifelongLearning #ActiveAging #SeniorActivities #MentalWellness #PurposeInRetirement #CaregiverTips #FamilyCaregiving  

Facing Feelings - Part 3: In this heartfelt episode of the Focused Healthy Family Podcast, Gina and Don Grothoff open an honest conversation about the emotional challenges faced by personal caregivers. Drawing from their experiences as mindset coaches and family advocates, they explore the complex feelings that often accompany caregiving—chronic stress, guilt, anticipatory grief, anger, resentment, loneliness, and the painful loss of self that can lead to burnout and exhaustion. Referencing insights from the Cleveland Clinic's article on caregiver burnout and The New York Times piece on anticipatory grief, Gina and Don unpack how these emotions manifest and why they're so common among those caring for loved ones. They discuss the importance of recognizing these feelings early, setting healthy boundaries, and finding ways to care for oneself while caring for others. Listeners will gain practical tools for emotional regulation, including mindfulness, EFT tapping, and mindset shifts that help caregivers move from survival mode to a place of balance and compassion. This episode serves as a reminder that caregivers deserve support, rest, and healing just as much as those they care for. #FocusedHealthyFamily #CaregiverSupport #CaregiverBurnout #AnticipatoryGrief #MindsetMatters #EFTTapping #SelfCareForCaregivers #MentalHealthAwareness #FamilyCaregivers #EmotionalWellness

Facing Feelings - Part 2: In this heartfelt episode of the Focused Healthy Family Podcast, Gina and Don Grothoff open an honest conversation about the emotional challenges faced by personal caregivers. Drawing from their experiences as mindset coaches and family advocates, they explore the complex feelings that often accompany caregiving—chronic stress, guilt, anticipatory grief, anger, resentment, loneliness, and the painful loss of self that can lead to burnout and exhaustion. Referencing insights from the Cleveland Clinic's article on caregiver burnout and The New York Times piece on anticipatory grief, Gina and Don unpack how these emotions manifest and why they're so common among those caring for loved ones. They discuss the importance of recognizing these feelings early, setting healthy boundaries, and finding ways to care for oneself while caring for others. Listeners will gain practical tools for emotional regulation, including mindfulness, EFT tapping, and mindset shifts that help caregivers move from survival mode to a place of balance and compassion. This episode serves as a reminder that caregivers deserve support, rest, and healing just as much as those they care for. https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Grief+is+Mourning+Sickness&crid=3C3IXN6UMHNLR&sprefix=grief+is+mourning+sickness%2Caps%2C136&ref=nb_sb_noss_1 #FocusedHealthyFamily #CaregiverSupport #CaregiverBurnout #AnticipatoryGrief #MindsetMatters #EFTTapping #SelfCareForCaregivers #MentalHealthAwareness #FamilyCaregivers #EmotionalWellness

When a family is caring for an aging loved one, everyone is affected—but often the emotions of the aging person themselves are the least talked about. In this episode of Focused Healthy Family, Gina and Don begin a new series exploring the emotional experiences of every member of the family during the aging journey. Today's focus is on the aging loved one: their fears, frustrations, grief, loss of independence, and the unspoken emotions that often come out through behavior rather than words. The conversation is deeply personal as Gina shares the story behind "The Hostage," a song written for her dad that reflects how he felt during the final month of his life—trapped by a body that no longer did what his mind wanted it to do. The song offers a powerful window into the inner world of someone nearing the end of life and helps families better understand what their loved one may be experiencing emotionally. This episode opens the door to compassion, understanding, and better communication within families navigating aging, illness, and end-of-life transitions. As this series continues, Gina and Don will explore the emotional impact on caregivers, spouses, adult children, and even grandchildren—because a focused, healthy family begins with understanding every voice in the room. #FocusedHealthyFamily #AgingLovedOnes #CaregiverSupport #FamilyCaregiving #AgingWithDignity #EndOfLifeCare #CaregivingJourney #AlzheimerAwareness #ParkinsonsCare #SeniorCare#FamilyHealth #EmotionalHealth #TheHostageSong

As a new year begins, many families feel the pressure to "set goals" and hope this year will be different. But should we really be focusing on goals at all? In this episode of Focused Healthy Family, Gina and Don take a thoughtful look at the New Year mindset and ask an important question: Are goals setting us up for success—or disappointment? Referencing research shared by Psychology Today, they discuss why nearly 92% of goals are never achieved, and what actually gets in the way for most people. The conversation explores the differences between goals, intentions, and decisions, and why the language we use matters—especially for caregivers, families, and anyone already carrying a full emotional load. Gina and Don break down how intentions can create flexibility, how decisions can create clarity, and how shifting your approach can lead to more peace and follow-through throughout the year. Whether you're caring for aging loved ones, managing family responsibilities, or simply wanting a healthier mindset moving into the new year, this episode offers encouragement, perspective, and a more compassionate way to move forward—without the guilt of "failed" resolutions. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/optimizing-success/202412/92-percent-of-people-never-achieve-their-goals #FocusedHealthyFamily #NewYearMindset #IntentionalLiving #GoalsVsIntentions #HealthyFamilies #CaregiverSupport #FamilyWellness #MentalHealthAwareness #NewYearReflection #LifeTransitions #PsychologyToday #StressLessLiveMore

Gina and Don replay #186 Dementia. In this episode of the Focused Healthy Family podcast, Gina and Don sit down with Jennifer Douds from AnswersforAging.com to dive into the world of Care Management. We explore what Care Managers do, how they guide families through complex senior care decisions, and why their role is such a valuable support system for caregivers. Jennifer also shares insights about the Second Wind Dreams Virtual Dementia Tour, a powerful program that helps people step into the shoes of someone living with dementia—offering a deeper understanding and empathy for both families and caregivers. Whether you're currently caring for an aging loved one or preparing for the future, this conversation provides clarity, resources, and inspiration for navigating the journey.  Jennifer Douds Jennifer has over 30 years of experience as an Occupational Therapist, specializing in helping older adults maintain their independence, reducing anxiety around aging, and providing support to help them continue living in the places they love. She understands the challenges families face when they can't always be there for every appointment or medication reminder, or what services are available and where to find them.  She helped both of her husband's parents and is now helping her parents with these same concerns. Jennifer's company, Answers For Aging, takes on the heavy lifting involved with caring for older adults, ensuring that your loved one's care is handled with the utmost care and attention. https://www.answerforaging.com #FocusedHealthyFamily #CareManagement #CareManagers #AgingParents #ElderCare #SeniorCare #DementiaAwareness #VirtualDementiaTour #SecondWindDreams #CaregivingSupport #FamilyCaregivers #AnswersForAging

Gina and Don replay the #149 about naturopathic healing. Dr. Julia Ward is a compassionate and pioneering physician with over a decade of expertise in functional medicine, offering a holistic, patient-centered approach to health and wellness. After earning her medical degree from the University of Southern California and serving in the U.S. Navy, where she practiced general, urgent, and emergency medicine both domestically and abroad, she faced personal health challenges that led her to functional medicine. Frustrated by the limitations of conventional care, Dr. Ward embraced a root-cause approach, completing a fellowship with the American Board of Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine in 2016. She has since dedicated her career to empowering patients with knowledge, promoting sustainable lifestyle changes, and integrating cutting-edge science into her practice to address physical and environmental factors impacting health. A devoted wife and mother of five, Dr. Ward combines her passion for medicine with a steadfast commitment to improving lives through transformative care. 281-710-3380 https://drjuliaward.com/ https://www.facebook.com/balancedbodyfunctionalmed https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-ward-md-55b7672a/ #PatientCenteredCare #PreventativeHealth #RegenerativeMedicine #AntiAging #HealthyLiving #LifestyleMedicine #IntegrativeHealth #WomenInMedicine #EmpoweredHealth #HealthAndWellness #FamilyCare #SustainableHealth #MindBodyMedicine

Gina and Don playback #178 Aging in Place. In this episode of the Focused Healthy Family Podcast, Don and Gina welcome Stuart Madow from Visiting Angels to explore the importance of compassionate in-home care for seniors. Stuart shares his extensive experience working with families to help older adults age in place safely and comfortably. The conversation highlights the many services Visiting Angels offers — from companionship and personal care to respite support for family caregivers — and how their personalized approach brings peace of mind to both seniors and their loved ones. We dive into the realities of caregiving, the emotional challenges families face, and the value of having a reliable, professional support system. Stuart also shares tips for families beginning their senior care journey and how to find trustworthy resources in the community. Guest Bio: Stuart Madow has worked in the senior care industry in the Lake Norman area for over 20 years. He founded and continues to facilitate the area's largest monthly gathering of healthcare providers — the South Iredell Healthcare Forum. A long-time resident of Mooresville, North Carolina, Stuart has called the area home for more than 30 years. Originally from northeast Ohio, he is known for his dedication to building strong community connections and helping families navigate the complexities of senior care with compassion and expertise. smadow@visitingangels.com  https://www.visitingangels.com/lakenorman/home Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Visitingangelsoflakenorman Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/visiting-angels-lake-norman-nc/?viewAsMember=true #FocusedHealthyFamily #VisitingAngels #SeniorCare #AgingInPlace #CaregivingSupport #StuartMadow #SouthIredellHealthcareForum #FamilyCaregivers #HomeCareServices #CompassionateCare

Gina and Don replay #184 talking with Sydney about fraud. In this episode, Gina and Don sit down with Sydney Hartnett of Hartnett Health to discuss an important and timely topic: senior scams and fraud prevention. From health insurance scams to the growing problem of Medicare fraud, Sydney shares her expertise and practical tips to help protect aging loved ones from becoming victims. We explore the different types of scams targeting seniors, why they are so prevalent, and most importantly—what families can do to safeguard themselves. Whether it's understanding common red flags, setting up safeguards, or having proactive conversations with parents and grandparents, this episode is full of insights you won't want to miss. 💡 If you've ever worried about a loved one getting taken advantage of, this conversation is for you. Helpful Sites: https://consumer.ftc.gov/ - The latest in consumer advice from scams, identity theft to credit.     https://support.google.com/voice/answer/115061?hl=en&ref_topic=1707989&sjid=6477591156788718288-NA - Quick how to on Google voice set up.    https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/use-two-factor-authentication-protect-your-accounts Two-Factor-Authentication how to.    https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCCONSUMER/subscriber/new?topic_id=USFTCCONSUMER_8 Get consumer alerts from the Federal Trade Commission.   https://consumer.ftc.gov/how-block-unwanted-calls Easy to read on how to block scam/spam calls. Includes what apps are vetted, and built in for different phones. Most phone carriers will have an article of their own. #FocusedHealthyFamily #SeniorSafety #FraudPrevention #MedicareFraud #SeniorScams #CaregiverSupport #AgingWisely #ProtectOurSeniors #FamilyCaregiving #SeniorAwareness

Gina and Don replay #170 Talking Parkinsons with Rich London. Richard London has been an accomplished businessman, entrepreneur, author, and motivational speaker.  He is a 22 year cancer survivor and has lived with Parkinson's disease for the last 20 years. His books, A Handbook for Life and A Handbook for Happiness, and audio CDs, 10 Things Every Person With Parkinson's Must Know and 10 Things Every Caregiver Must Know, have helped many people achieve goals, overcome obstacles, and enjoy their lives.  Richard has traveled across the United States and Canada as a keynote speaker inspiring others with his personal story of overcoming challenges in his life. At age 19 he had a life changing automobile accident that put him in and out of hospitals for ten months.  In 2003 he was diagnosed with prostate cancer and two years after his cancer diagnosis he was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. Despite those challenges Richard has started 3 computer companies, has black belts in multiple martial arts, and has his commercial pilot's license. Richard's biggest message to others is that regardless of life's challenges, everyone is in control of their own health and happiness. Ready Steady Boxing https://rocksteadyboxing.org/ Rich's Books 10 Things Every Caregiver Must Know:   https://drive.google.com/file/d/1DghSyvRmn4ymJSeCBBzXlwf-bKE-tfg9/view?usp=drive_link 10 Things Every Person With Parkinsons Must Know: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1UopK4XX73grm4CWZsl2BWKxp0zJbJI2D/view?usp=drive_link A Handbook for Happiness:  https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jIiQp6wseSfHSLlGoUHuHlEJkFq67GFP/view?usp=drive_link   A Handbook for Life: A Practical Guide to Success and Happiness (On Amazon) #ParkinsonsAwareness #ParkinsonsSupport #LivingWithParkinsons #ParkinsonsJourney #ParkinsonsCare

Today Gina and Don replay #172 Reconnecting After 60.  In this episode of Focused Healthy Family, Gina and Don dive into the importance of staying socially connected after age 60. Inspired by a Healthline article, they share simple, meaningful ways to expand your social life—from joining walking groups and taking classes to volunteering and using tech to stay in touch. They explore how socializing boosts mental and physical health, and offer real-world tips for overcoming obstacles like transportation and isolation. Whether you're retired or just looking to meet new people, this episode is full of practical ideas to help you reconnect, stay engaged, and thrive in your later years. https://www.healthline.com/health/ways-to-expand-your-social-life-for-older-people #FocusedHealthyFamily #HealthyAging #SocialAfter60 #SeniorWellness #AgingGracefully #StayConnected #SeniorMentalHealth #SocialWellbeing  #FightIsolation #MentalHealthMatters

As part of our best of 2025 we want to replay this podcast. In this past episode #153 of Focused Healthy Family, we dove into the unique challenges and rewards of being part of the sandwich generation—those who find themselves caring for aging parents while raising their own children. We explored the emotional, physical, and financial toll this dual caregiving role can take, as well as strategies for maintaining balance, building resilience, and finding joy amidst the demands.  Whether you're in the thick of it or preparing for this chapter, this conversation offers practical advice and heartfelt stories to remind you that you're not alone in this journey. #SandwichGeneration #CaregivingJourney #AgingParents #ParentingChallenges #FocusedHealthyFamily #CaregiverSupport #IntergenerationalCare #RaisingKidsAndParents #MultigenerationalLiving #CaregiverStress

The holidays often bring everyone back home—adult children, grandchildren, and multiple generations gathered under one roof. In this episode of The Focused Healthy Family Podcast, Gina and Don explore why these moments together may be the perfect opportunity to have meaningful conversations about the future. Rather than waiting for a crisis, the holidays offer a natural and loving setting to talk about how we, as older adults, want our lives to look in the years ahead. Who would step in if help were needed? How do we want to be treated? What values matter most when it comes to caregiving, independence, and quality of life? Gina and Don discuss how to approach these conversations with compassion instead of fear, how to include adult children without creating tension, and why clarity today can reduce stress, guilt, and confusion later. They also share insights on navigating family dynamics, honoring personal wishes, and keeping dignity and connection at the center of future planning. Whether you're an older adult thinking ahead or part of a family supporting aging loved ones, this episode offers gentle guidance for turning holiday togetherness into honest, healthy conversations that strengthen families. https://agelab.mit.edu/ #FocusedHealthyFamily #HomeForTheHolidays #FamilyConversations #AgingWell #FuturePlanning #CaregivingConversations #HealthyFamilies #AgingParents #HolidayGatherings #CaregiverSupport #FamilyCaregiving #EndOfLifePlanning #GenerationalConversations

In this empowering episode of the Focused Healthy Family Podcast, Gina and Don sit down with Rita Garnto, founder of Simple Self-Care by Rita, to explore what many experts are calling a global epidemic of stress. With more people than ever living in constant fight-or-flight, Rita brings her calm, grounded wisdom to explain why our nervous systems are overwhelmed — and what simple steps we can take to reclaim peace. Rita shares her signature approach of starting small, reminding us that self-care doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. From micro-moments of breathing to tiny shifts in daily habits, she shows how even the simplest practices can break the stress cycle and reset the body. And because stress often intensifies during the busy Christmas and holiday season, Gina, Don, and Rita weave in practical tips to help families stay centered during the chaos — including easy ways to slow down, reset, and actually enjoy the moments that matter. This episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling overwhelmed, rushing on autopilot, or craving calmer, more intentional holidays. Rita's Bio Rita K. Garnto is a passionate advocate for self-care and stress management, blending her years of healthcare experience with a compassionate, down-to-earth approach. As a speaker, author, and creator of simple self-care strategies, Rita empowers individuals to prioritize their well-being in a busy world.  When she's not helping others find balance, you can find her working out, working in her yard, or spending quality time with her family. Rita's mission is to prove that even small steps toward self-care can lead to big life changes. #FocusedHealthyFamily #SimpleSelfCare #RitaGarnto #StressRelief #FightOrFlight #HolidayStress #ChristmasWellness #MindfulHolidays #StressManagement #CalmTheChaos #FamilyWellness #SelfCareTips #MentalHealthMatters

In this episode of the Focused Healthy Family podcast, Gina and Don dive into an important but often overlooked topic—how to keep pets safe, calm, and healthy during the holiday season. Using expert guidance from NC State University's "Holidays and Pets: How to Keep Them Safe This Season" tips, they unpack the common holiday hazards pet owners should know about, along with simple, proactive ways to protect your furry family members. From dangerous holiday foods and decorations to travel stress, unexpected visitors, and changes in routine, Gina and Don share the ups and downs of navigating the holidays with pets. They talk about real-life experiences, challenges families face, and practical strategies to help prevent accidents, support pet anxiety, and create a safe environment during this chaotic time of year. Whether you're caring for a older pet, a new puppy, or a sensitive rescue animal, this episode is full of helpful holiday pet safety tips, stress-reduction strategies, and family-friendly advice to keep everyone—including your four-legged loved ones—feeling grounded and connected. ASPCA - https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/holiday-safety-tips Holidays and Pets: How to Keep Them Safe This Season - Article #FocusedHealthyFamily #HolidayPetSafety #PetWellness #FamilyCaregiving #HolidayStress #PetSafetyTips #NCStateUniversity #SafeHolidays #PetHealth #FamilyPodcast #GinaAndDon #MindfulHolidays #PetsAndFamilies

In this episode of the Focused Healthy Family podcast, Gina and Don sit down with Paul Bill from Veterans Bridge Home, an organization dedicated to helping service members successfully transition back into civilian life. Paul offers an inside look at the challenges many veterans face when the uniform comes off—identity shifts, employment struggles, mental and emotional transitions, rebuilding community, and navigating available resources. Together, they explore how Veterans Bridge Home bridges the gap by connecting veterans and their families to the support systems they need—whether it's housing, healthcare, career guidance, or a renewed sense of belonging. This honest and compassionate conversation sheds light on what transitional veterans truly go through and how communities can better show up for them. Paul Bill Paul is on his third tour with Veterans Bridge Home; this tour as Community Engagement Manager.   Previous tours he assisted in Veteran career education and transition employment.   He is a 30-year retired Navy Surface Warfare Officer Commander, serving on numerous naval vessels; deploying in support of both Persian Gulf wars and Global War on Terrorism.  He was prior enlisted as a construction electrician "SeaBee", then commissioned through the NROTC program with Rochester Institute of Technology.  Through his Navy career and after his retirement in 2012, Paul continued to work to help close the gap between transitioning veterans and job placement. Prior to rejoining the VBH team, Paul has been in business development and sales; working with Fortune 100/500 companies. He has facilitated over 50 Executive Business Development Workshops with a Business Development training/consulting company in Charlotte.  Since 2008, Paul serves as an Adjunct Professor at Bellevue University, teaching online COHORT  Business curriculum for the college's Business Department.   Paul is an experienced veteran, educator and motivation coach with the passion to help veterans on "transition".  He lives in Tega Cay with his wife Susan (Dementia Care Navigator and ED for Magnolia Memory Care) of 33 years; has 2 daughters (one in Mathews, NC and other in Austin, TX).  Has 3 grandchildren and one on the way.   #FocusedHealthyFamily #VeteransBridgeHome #VeteranSupport #MilitaryTransition #VeteranWellness #MentalHealthMatters #FamilyCaregiving #CommunitySupport #VeteranStories #MilitaryFamilies #TransitioningVeterans #HolisticHealth #PodcastInterview

In this festive holiday episode of the Focused Healthy Family podcast, Gina and Don share practical, real-life tips to support both the youngest and oldest members of your family during the busy season. Whether you're navigating holiday meals with picky eaters, planning safe and stress-free travel with aging parents, or creating a warm and accessible home for visiting grandparents and energetic kids, this episode offers helpful strategies to make your celebrations smoother and more joyful. Gina and Don discuss healthy holiday eating for kids and seniors, smart family travel tips for the holidays, simple ways to reduce stress, and ideas for maintaining comfort, safety, and connection across generations. From managing routines to planning gatherings, this conversation is full of guidance families can use to enjoy the holidays with more ease and intention. If your holidays include everything from toddlers to grandparents—or anything in between—this episode will help you feel more prepared, more confident, and more connected this season. #FocusedHealthyFamily #HolidayWellness #HolidayFamilyTips #HealthyHolidays #FamilyTravel #SeniorCare #HealthyEating #MultigenerationalLiving #AgingParents #FamilyConnection #HolidayStressRelief #FamilyWellness

Join Gina and Don on this powerful episode of Focused Healthy Family as they sit down with elder-law specialist Louise M. Paglen of The McIntosh Law Firm (https://mcintoshlawfirm.com) to dive into the critical legal issues that affect aging loved ones and the families who care for them. With over two decades of experience in estate planning, guardianship, long-term care planning, Medicaid and VA benefits, Louise brings her compassionate, family-centered approach to demystify elder law and empower listeners. In this conversation you'll learn: What "elder law" really encompasses — and how it goes beyond just wills and trusts to address the whole arc of aging, care and legacy.  How to proactively plan for long-term care, special needs, and asset protection so that your parents or older loved ones aren't left scrambling. What questions to ask, what documents matter, and how to navigate Medicaid or VA benefits when caring for someone who's aging and may need support. Practical next steps for families juggling aging parents, caring roles, legacy concerns and the emotional realities that come with them — all with real-life dialogue to help you feel supported not overwhelmed. Whether you're in the sandwich generation, supporting a parent, planning ahead for your own future, or helping someone you love navigate the years ahead, this episode offers clarity, heart and actionable tips. Tune in now and get empowered to build a safer, more confident foundation for your family's future. Louise Paglen Before joining The McIntosh Law Firm, Lake Norman attorney Louise Paglen was the owner and founder of Paglen Law Office, a family-centered law practice providing estate planning, asset protection planning, and special needs planning for senior citizens, veterans, people with disabilities, and their families. Louise understands that providing legal services to families often involves planning and advocating for her clients' most precious assets: parents, children, spouses, siblings, relatives, friends, and pets. She dedicates her practice to families and small businesses and is passionate about helping her clients keep family assets and financial matters private, and their loved ones cared for.  Louise is married and has two adult sons and two playful dogs. She enjoys spending time in the Blue Ridge Mountains, hiking, reading, cooking, playing with her dogs, and spending time with friends, family, and nature. #ElderLaw #AgingParents #EstatePlanning #LongTermCare #CaringForAgingParents #LegacyPlanning #FamilyCaregiving #MedicaidPlanning #VAbenefits #FocusedHealthyFamily