A chat, a friendly ear and some guidance can make all the difference to those who dedicate their lives to supporting their loved ones. Emily, a nurse and mum of five, became her daughter Hope’s carer just a year ago. By the time she was referred to Carer Gateway, she was reaching a breaking point. Coaching changed everything – helping her find balance, practice self-care without guilt, and navigate the constant world of appointments. In this episode, coaches Kseniia and Gerald share how coaching adapts to each carer’s needs, whether that’s practical advice, mental health strategies, or simply a safe space to talk. Show links: www.wellways.org/resources/tune-in-to-care-podcast www.wellways.org/our-services/carer-gateway/carer-gateway-registration https://www.wellways.org/our-services/carer-gateway/facilitated-coaching www.carergateway.gov.au Tune in to Care is brought to you by Wellways Carer Gateway.
Living in a rural area comes with unique challenges and no one knows this better than Alfina. After her baby boy Aiden was diagnosed with a rare connective tissue disorder, she found herself travelling constantly from her hometown Stanthorpe to Brisbane for specialist care. With more than 20 appointments a year and many surgeries to go through, Alfina decided to make the move to Toowoomba, having to leave her family and support system behind to get Aiden the care he needed. Her discovery of Carer Gateway has helped her rebuild a support system and learn to prioritise self-care. In this episode, Louise Faulkner the National Manager Carer Gateway Services will introduce us to the innovative outreach van Wanda which exists to support people like Alfina by meeting them where they’re at so they don’t have to leave their support systems and homes to find the support they need. Show links: www.wellways.org/resources/tune-in-to-care-podcast www.wellways.org/our-services/carer-gateway/carer-gateway-registration https://www.wellways.org/our-services/carer-gateway/mobile-support www.carergateway.gov.au Tune in to Care is brought to you by Wellways Carer Gateway.
Caring is the most selfless act of love, but it can also get in the way of projects and goals if those caring are not properly supported. Such was the case for Gerowyn, an inspiring mum with great aspirations. During the pandemic, Gerowyn was overwhelmed caring for her mum who had a broken hip, supporting her neurodivergent children through homeschooling while nursing her own set of injuries and late autism diagnosis. Burnt out, she put her dual IT degree and career on pause. With the support of Carer Gateway coaching, Gerowyn has rebuilt her confidence and discovered a new passion – counselling. In this episode, she shares why having a career to return to is essential for every carer. We’ll also hear from Kate Mulvaney, Vocational Navigation Coordinator, who introduces Wellways Carer Gateway’s vocational coaching service designed to help carers re-enter the workforce, change direction or pursue the job they’ve always dreamed of. Show links: www.wellways.org/resources/tune-in-to-care-podcast www.wellways.org/our-services/carer-gateway/carer-gateway-registration https://www.wellways.org/our-services/carer-gateway/vocational-coaching www.carergateway.gov.au Tune in to Care is brought to you by Wellways Carer Gateway.
This episode we’re introducing you to Sally, an educator and carer. Three years ago, Sally’s life was turned upside down when her lifelong partner Greg had a stroke. On her journey of recognising herself as a carer and adapting to the new routine of not only being a wife but a 24/7 carer, she came to realise that there wasn’t a dedicated space for carers where they could find refuge and step away from the role to be themselves and unwind. After seeking support from Wellways Carer Gateway, Sally became one of the co-designers of the Cairns Carer Hub, a dedicated space for carers or as she calls it, “A soft place to land”. You’ll also get to know Donna, the navigator (or manager) at the Cairns Carer Hub as she speaks about the purpose of this space and why it’s improving the wellbeing of carers across Queensland and New South Wales. Show links: www.wellways.org/resources/tune-in-to-care-podcast www.wellways.org/our-services/carer-gateway/carer-gateway-registration https://www.wellways.org/our-services/carer-gateway/carer-hubs www.carergateway.gov.au Tune in to Care is brought to you by Wellways Carer Gateway.
This season, we’re exploring four stories of resilience and how innovation can shape a better future for those who support others. In Episode 1, you’ll meet the four carers at the heart of this season. They share a glimpse into their day-to-day realities: the challenges, the strength it takes to care, and the deep love behind it all. We’re also introduced to the experts who will help us unpack our central theme: innovation in caring. Guided by our new host, Billy Bentley, this opening episode sets the tone for a season focused on new ideas, better support, and helping carers thrive. Show links: www.wellways.org/resources/tune-in-to-care-podcast www.wellways.org/our-services/carer-gateway/carer-gateway-registration www.carergateway.gov.au Tune in to Care is brought to you by Wellways Carer Gateway.
Tune in to Care – the podcast exploring the lives of carers – is back! Join new host, Billy Bentley, in Season 3 and embark on a journey to meeting carers where they are at, diving into their stories, challenges and triumphs and how innovation can transform the support they need. Listen to four incredible and unique real-life experiences while we explore how innovation has helped turn their challenges into opportunities.
In this insightful wrap-up episode of Tune in to Care, host Adrian Plitzco and guest Lou Faulkner from Wellways Carer Gateway, reflect on the diverse experiences of carers highlighted throughout the podcast series. They engage in a thought-provoking discussion about the unique challenges faced by carers of varying demographics. Topics covered: Exploring diverse caregiving roles and challenges The transformative power of peer support groups Challenges and growth of young carers balancing life responsibilities Challenges and community support for rural caregivers Empathy and understanding in supporting carers Challenges and support for carers during the holiday season Show links: www.wellways.org/resources/tune-in-to-care-podcast www.wellways.org/our-services/carer-gateway/carer-gateway-registration www.carergateway.gov.au Tune in to Care is supported by Wellways Carer Gateway.
Gloria and Mossiearna, Indigenous caregivers from Mornington Island, share their experiences and challenges of providing care in remote areas. They discuss the support they provide to their communities despite limited resources. With insight from Lou Faulkner and Jannah Cruden of Wellways and North and West Remote Health, this episode explores community trust, traditional protocols, and the critical role of Wellways Carer Gateway in supporting remote carers. Discover the inspiring tales of resilience and community spirit as carers navigate caregiving in isolated regions. Topics covered: Challenges and resilience of remote Indigenous carers Community support and caring for Elders Providing services in remote areas Unconventional care solutions in remote areas Building community bonds through carer support and stories Show links: www.wellways.org/resources/tune-in-to-care-podcast www.wellways.org/our-services/carer-gateway/carer-gateway-registration www.carergateway.gov.au Tune in to Care is supported by Wellways Carer Gateway.
Explore the unique challenges faced by rural and regional carers, as Dawn and Julie-Ann share their emotional and physical experiences of caregiving in rural and regional areas. This episode delves into resource limitations, isolation, and community resilience. Adrian Plitzco guides the conversation with insights from experts Lou Faulkner and Jannah Cruden, who discuss innovative solutions and community support systems for isolated carers. Discover how these carers navigate the landscape of caregiving amidst technical difficulties and limited access to services, finding strength through community ties and personal strategies. Topics covered: Challenges and resilience of rural and regional carers Providing support in rural and regional areas Resourcefulness of carers in regional communities Show links: www.wellways.org/resources/tune-in-to-care-podcast www.wellways.org/our-services/carer-gateway/carer-gateway-registration www.carergateway.gov.au Tune in to Care is supported by Wellways Carer Gateway.
Explore the experiences of young carers, Julia and Adam, as they balance the challenges of caregiving while navigating personal growth and academic pressures. Discover insights from experts Richard Colquhoun of Little Dreamers and Lou Faulkner of Wellways Carer Gateway on the complexities, emotional toll, and support available for young carers. Topics covered: Experiences and challenges Balancing responsibilities and seeking support Accessing support for job search and mental health Insights and advice from young carers Balancing school and caregiving roles Personal growth amidst family challenges Supporting young carers through education and peer connections Show links: www.wellways.org/resources/tune-in-to-care-podcast www.wellways.org/our-services/carer-gateway/carer-gateway-registration www.carergateway.gov.au Tune in to Care is supported by Wellways Carer Gateway.
Explore the complex world of mental health carers with guests Diana and Sandra. Diana navigates caring for a son with severe autism while managing her own ADHD, while Sandra supports her grandchildren with mental health challenges. They share raw insights into misdiagnosis, lack of support, and the emotional turmoil of caregiving. Experts Lou Faulkner and Jenna Sachs discuss the crucial role of community support. Discover how carers can find empowerment and resilience through resources and community. Topics covered: Challenges and resilience of mental health carers Challenges and sacrifices of caring for family with disabilities Discovering ADHD through neurodiverse carer support groups Support systems for carers through Wellways Carer Gateway The importance of community support for mental health carers The importance of support groups for carers Empowering carers through support and self-determination Show links: www.wellways.org/resources/tune-in-to-care-podcast www.wellways.org/our-services/carer-gateway/carer-gateway-registration www.carergateway.gov.au Tune in to Care is supported by Wellways Carer Gateway.
Dive into the heartfelt stories of carers Kim and Liz as they navigate the emotional and physical challenges of caregiving for elderly loved ones. This episode of Tune into Care explores themes of carer burnout, grief, and the importance of support networks. Featuring insights from Tenille Griffiths, State Manager at Dementia Australia, and Lou Faulkner, General Manager of Wellways Carer Gateway Services, the discussion underscores the transformative power of peer groups, counselling, and coaching in fostering resilience and compassion in challenging caregiving journeys. Topics covered: Exploring carer burnout and support through personal stories Challenges of caring for aging family members A lifelong journey of caring and personal sacrifice Finding strength and support in caregiving through Wellways Rediscovering joy and self-care in later life Finding joy and self-compassion amid caregiving challenges The healing power of coaching and group support Finding strength and support in shared experiences The emotional and practical support for aging caregivers Challenges and support for carers of dementia patients The importance of support services for carers Show links: www.wellways.org/resources/tune-in-to-care-podcast www.wellways.org/our-services/carer-gateway/carer-gateway-registration www.carergateway.gov.au Tune in to care is supported by Wellways Carer Gateway.
Season 2 of Tune in to Care delves into the unique experiences of carers across Australia, emphasising that no two carers are the same. In this episode we are introduced to the carers who will feature throughout the series with a sneak preview of who they are, the challenges they face, what gives them hope and the impact seeking support has had on their lives. Topics discussed: Exploring diverse carer roles across Australian communities The emotional and physical toll of long-term caregiving Support and community for caregivers through Carer Gateway Challenges and guilt of neurodiverse carers Support and empathy for mental health carers Young carers’ challenges and personal growth Support networks and services for young carers Challenges of carers in remote areas Community resourcefulness and support challenges in rural Australia Challenges and community support on Mornington Island Building trust and support in remote caring communities Show links: www.wellways.org/resources/tune-in-to-care-podcast www.wellways.org/our-services/carer-gateway/carer-gateway-registration www.carergateway.gov.au Tune in to Care is supported by Wellways Carer Gateway.
Explore the resilient world of caregivers in Season 2 of “Tune into Care” as host Adrian Plitzco delves into the diverse caregiving roles across Australia.
In this special bonus episode of Tune in to care, we check in with Mary and Georgie as they reflect on hearing the first 6 episodes of the podcast. For Mary it was hard to hear, but she shares how she found the experience very rewarding. Georgie discusses the benefits of In-Person Peer Support groups as a space for listening, sharing and expressing feelings; and we experience first-hand that life doesn’t always go to plan for carers. Tune in to reflect on the transformative, emotional and brave achievement of these five carers in sharing their stories. Show links: https://www.wellways.org/tune-in-to-care https://www.wellways.org/carer-gateway-registration https://www.carergateway.gov.au Tune in to care is supported by Wellways Carer Gateway. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
Towards the end of the season, we learn how supports have made the people on this podcast better carers. Lena has learned to speak up to her father and Mary feels like a rock has been lifted off her chest. Whilst their caring responsibilities remain the same, their ways of dealing with them have changed for the better. Tune in to hear what it means when the caring journey comes to an end. Show links: https://www.wellways.org/tune-in-to-care https://www.wellways.org/carer-gateway-registration https://www.carergateway.gov.au Tune in to care is supported by Wellways Carer Gateway. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
In this episode the carers share how they discovered there was help out there and which supports made a difference in their lives. While George enjoys when other carers listen to him, young carer Maya has learned to appreciate art. Tune in to learn more about counselling, art therapy, respite care and peer support groups. Show links: https://www.wellways.org/tune-in-to-care https://www.wellways.org/carer-gateway-registration https://www.carergateway.gov.au Tune in to care is supported by Wellways Carer Gateway. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
In episode four of Tune in to care, carers Lena, George, Mary, Maya, and Luna discuss their feelings of guilt and doubt, the pressure that comes with doing enough for their loved ones, and the fear of asking for help. They also touch on the stigma attached to being a carer and the lack of understanding from others. Tune in to learn about carer stigma and finding a safe space to express your feelings without fear of judgment. Show links: https://www.wellways.org/tune-in-to-care https://www.wellways.org/carer-gateway-registration https://www.carergateway.gov.au Tune in to care is supported by Wellways Carer Gateway. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
In this episode of Tune in to Care the carers share the challenges that come with asking family and friends for help and how a lack of support in their caring role led to isolation and loneliness. Georgie Sawyer, a Peer Facilitator at Wellways Carer Gateway, joins the podcast to discuss the importance of being heard and the role Carer Gateway plays in providing support to carers. Tune in to hear how access to support can improve your own wellbeing. Show links: https://www.wellways.org/tune-in-to-care https://www.wellways.org/carer-gateway-registration https://www.carergateway.gov.au Tune in to care is supported by Wellways Carer Gateway. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm
In episode two of Tune in to care, our carers share their experiences of when they first came to the realisation that they are carers. We hear how teenager Maya's new carer role led to a newfound passion to help people in need. For others, this new self-awareness has led to a struggle and loss of identity. Tune in to learn what carer burnout is and how to counter it. Show links: https://www.wellways.org/tune-in-to-care https://www.wellways.org/carer-gateway-registration https://www.carergateway.gov.au Tune in to care is supported by Wellways Carer Gateway. This podcast is hosted by ZenCast.fm