• Jane Dye: Navigating Grief, Health, and Family Demands with Compassion and Self-Love
    Nov 12 2024

    About Jane Dye: Jane Dye, RN, CCHC, is a Certified Transformational Health Coach and founder of Precedo Inc., where she combines her extensive background in nursing with holistic wellness coaching. With years of experience in hospital-based roles and as a former director of medical training, Jane shifted her focus to Precedo to help clients achieve greater energy, vitality, and life balance through personalized health strategies. She emphasizes sustainable diet and lifestyle practices, using an embodied coaching style to foster lasting transformations. Based in Charleston, South Carolina, Jane is passionate about guiding clients toward vibrant health and overall well-being.


    In this episode, Brian and Jane Dye discuss:

    • Managing stress and health in the midst of family and caregiving responsibilities
    • The impact of grief on mental, emotional, and physical well-being
    • Strategies for cultivating resilience and self-care amid life’s demands
    • How to implement practical, incremental health habits for lasting change


    Key Takeaways:

    • Conscious breathing exercises, involving slow inhales and exhales, can help manage acute stress by engaging the body’s parasympathetic "rest-and-digest" system, which reduces stress hormones and stabilizes the heart rate.
    • The most effective habit changes often start with small, achievable actions that have the highest potential impact, allowing for meaningful progress without overwhelming demands.
    • Grieving requires patience and compassion, as each person must navigate creating a “new normal” rather than attempting to return to a pre-loss state, with support from friends, family, or professional resources.
    • Building healthful habits, such as staying hydrated and incorporating mindful movement, can offer stability and strength during challenging times, especially when paired with a mindset of adding positive choices rather than focusing solely on restricting negative ones.


    "The key to any change is honestly to figure out the smallest possible thing that could have the greatest impact." — Jane Dye

    Resources Mentioned:

    Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor: https://www.amazon.com/Breath-New-Science-Lost-Art/dp/0735213615


    Connect with Jane Dye:

    Website: https://janekdye.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jane-k-dye-rn-cchc-95421631/

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

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janekdye_/

    Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/janekdye/


    Host contact information: 

    • Email: briansacksnewsletters@gmail.com

    

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    34 mins
  • Chris Miles: Breaking Free from Traditional Financial Traps
    Oct 29 2024

    About Chris Miles: Chris Miles is the "Cash Flow Expert" and the anti-financial advisor, dedicated to teaching entrepreneurs and high-income employees how to achieve financial prosperity today. After four years as a financial planner, Chris realized traditional investment strategies often fall short, leading him to focus on alternative investments that generate real cash flow. As the founder of Money Ripples, he has helped hundreds of clients discover an average of $34,000 a year by identifying money leaks and implementing innovative investment strategies. With a proven track record and features in major publications like CNN Money and US News, Chris empowers individuals to take control of their finances and create lasting wealth.


    In this episode, Brian and Chris Miles discuss:

    • Managing finances while caring for family
    • Breaking away from traditional financial advice
    • Real-life financial setbacks and recoveries
    • Navigating today’s economy and retirement plans


    Key Takeaways:

    • Relying solely on 401(k)s, savings, and paying off debt could leave you with insufficient retirement funds, as evidenced by Chris's father's struggles despite following these exact principles.
    • Building passive income through investments such as real estate and hard money lending creates reliable financial freedom, allowing you to retire earlier and withstand market downturns​.
    • Avoid locking money into inaccessible places like mortgages and retirement accounts; keeping your assets liquid ensures you can access funds during emergencies or downturns, like the 2008 crisis​.
    • Instead of focusing on accumulating wealth, track monthly cash flow and aim for continuous income streams that keep generating profits, even during difficult times​.


    "If you want your own financial freedom to go up, you need to get your money out of prison." — Chris Miles


    Connect with Chris Miles:

    Website: https://moneyripples.com/

    Show: Money Ripples Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/money-ripples-podcast/id895555599

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@moneyrippleswithchrismiles

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriscmiles/

    Twitter: https://x.com/moneyripples

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

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@moneyripples

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moneyripples/


    Host contact information: 

    • Email: briansacksnewsletters@gmail.com

    

    Sign up for your FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER at www.stuckinthemiddlenews.com

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    23 mins
  • Krista Melanson: How Culinary Adventures Strengthen Relationships
    Oct 15 2024

    About Krista Melanson: Krista "The Relationship Chef" Melanson is a Cordon Bleu-trained chef and relationship coach who blends her passion for food with helping couples build deeper connections. Inspired by her culinary background and personal experiences, she launched "The Relationship Chef" to guide committed couples in using the love language of food to strengthen their relationships. Krista's unique approach to relationship coaching has helped people rediscover love, support, and passion in their partnerships through shared culinary experiences.


    In this episode, Brian and Krista Melanson discuss:

    • Creative ways to nurture relationships amidst daily life pressures
    • Cooking as a tool for building stronger relationships
    • Making time for meaningful connections in busy lives
    • Creativity and spontaneity in fostering emotional intimacy


    Key Takeaways:

    • Curated cooking experiences are designed to help couples reconnect by completing shared tasks, learning new culinary skills, and engaging in meaningful conversation, fostering stronger emotional bonds.
    • At-home date nights focused on preparing more complex meals allow couples to spend quality time together in a relaxed environment, free from the distractions of restaurants or outside activities.
    • Each meal plan is tailored to suit individual preferences, allergies, and food sensitivities, while also encouraging couples to step out of their comfort zones and try new foods to expand their palates.
    • Success stories demonstrate that couples, even those who spend a lot of time together, can strengthen their emotional connection and refresh their relationship by engaging in the shared experience of cooking at home.


    "A healthy and happy parent in a healthy and happier relationship is a better parent." — Krista Melanson


    Connect with Krista Melanson:

    Website: https://krista-marie.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/krista-melanson-b5606967/

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

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_relationshipchef


    Host contact information: 

    • Email: briansacksnewsletters@gmail.com

    

    Sign up for your FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER at www.stuckinthemiddlenews.com


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    19 mins
  • Jeaneen Tang: Play Dumb and Sabotage: Encouraging Language Growth in Children and Adults
    Oct 1 2024

    About Jeaneen Tang: Jeaneen Tang is a speech-language pathologist with over 20 years of experience working with neurodivergent children and adults. A mother of a neurodivergent son, Jeaneen's personal journey has deepened her commitment to improving language development strategies for special needs populations. Her book, Play Dumb & Sabotage, offers practical tools for parents and professionals to enhance communication skills in young children. Jeaneen has shared her expertise globally, inspiring others to rethink early language intervention.


    In this episode, Brian and Jeaneen Tang discuss:

    • The role of personal experiences in shaping career paths and passions, particularly in caregiving and speech therapy
    • Challenges and experiences with speech delays in children and adults
    • Importance of early intervention and speech therapy
    • Coping strategies for dealing with communication issues in both children and elderly family members


    Key Takeaways:

    • Personal caregiving experiences, such as managing a child's severe brain injury or helping a sick family member, can deeply influence one's approach to both professional and personal caregiving responsibilities​.
    • Identifying red flags in speech development—such as a child not babbling by one year or not combining words by age two—is critical for parents to seek early intervention, which can significantly reduce the need for long-term therapy​.
    • The "play dumb and sabotage" strategy encourages caregivers to intentionally under-anticipate a child's or adult's needs, thereby fostering opportunities for them to practice communication and engage actively.
    • Speech delays in children don’t always mean long-term special education is necessary, and early intervention, especially between ages zero to three, is vital as federally funded programs can help address delays before they become more serious​.


    "My book is not just for children with special needs, but it's for every child... If we can get every parent educated... it'll really change the world." — Jeaneen Tang


    Connect with Jeaneen Tang:

    Website: https://www.playdumbandsabotage.com/

    Book: Play Dumb & Sabotage: https://www.amazon.com/Play-Dumb-Sabotage-under-anticipating-opportunities-ebook/dp/B0CW1JPC7P

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeaneen-tang-707a6730/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/playdumbandsabotage



    Host contact information: 

    • Email: briansacksnewsletters@gmail.com

    

    Sign up for your FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER at www.stuckinthemiddlenews.com

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    20 mins
  • Connor Tyson: The Emotional and Financial Realities of the Sandwich Generation
    Sep 17 2024

    About Connor Tyson: Connor Tyson is a financial wellness coach and founder of Progress Solutions LLC, with over 20 years of experience in the financial services industry. He holds a Series 65, New York Life and Health licenses, and a ChFC (Chartered Financial Consultant) designation. After working in wealth management and advising roles at major institutions like TIAA-CREF and J.P. Morgan, Connor transitioned to financial coaching in 2020, driven by his passion for financial literacy. He focuses on helping individuals eliminate debt, improve financial habits, and achieve long-term financial freedom.


    In this episode, Brian and Connor Tyson discuss:

    • Balancing financial responsibilities for both aging parents and children
    • The emotional and psychological burden of family caregiving
    • Financial planning and the importance of budgeting
    • The role of habits and behaviors in personal finance


    Key Takeaways:

    • Caregivers must first assess and stabilize their own financial situation to ensure they are in a position to provide long-term support to both their aging parents and children.
    • Many people, even those with financial education, struggle financially not because they lack knowledge but because they fail to build proactive and intentional habits around their money.
    • Having early, transparent conversations about your parents’ financial assets, their wishes, and long-term care plans can prevent financial strain and emotional stress down the road.
    • The sandwich generation is uniquely burdened with balancing immediate family expenses like childcare and eldercare, while simultaneously planning for their own future needs like retirement and education.


    "I don't tell people what to do. I just understand their principles and values, their wishes and what they want, and then I help them understand how to go about that. I guide them to the resources they need to make decisions for themselves." — Connor Tyson

    Connect with Connor Tyson:

    Website: https://progressfc.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connor-tyson-chfc%C2%AE-07391a45/

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

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/connorthefinancialcoach/


    Host contact information: 

    • Email: briansacksnewsletters@gmail.com

    

    Sign up for your FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER at www.stuckinthemiddlenews.com

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    23 mins
  • Katherine McCord: The Intersection of Neurodiversity and Family Care
    Sep 3 2024

    About Katherine McCord: Katherine McCord is an entrepreneur, international speaker, and the Founding President of Titan Management, where she champions integrity, inclusion, and innovation. She created the first-ever anti-bias Applicant Tracking System, Titan ATS, and founded The Neuroverse, a neurodiversity-focused nonprofit. Katherine is passionate about shaking up HR, fostering workplace inclusion, and advocating for animal rescue and human rights. Her work has earned her speaking engagements at prestigious institutions like AIMS (United Nations) and the London School of Business.


    In this episode, Brian and Katherine McCord discuss:

    • Understanding what neurodiversity is
    • The impact of neurodiversity on daily life
    • Strategies for managing family dynamics
    • The role of communication in caregiving


    Key Takeaways:

    • Neurodiversity includes conditions such as ADHD, dyslexia, and PTSD, which affect how individuals process information and stimuli, and can come with both disabilities and strengths.
    • Hormonal shifts, like those experienced during menopause, can significantly exacerbate or alter the ways in which individuals manage their neurodiversity.
    • Implementing universal design principles in both homes and workplaces can greatly help accommodate the diverse needs of neurodiverse individuals, thereby reducing the everyday challenges they face and fostering a more inclusive environment.
    • Adapting communication styles to the needs of the individual, such as using clear and specific questions, can lead to better understanding and outcomes in caregiving situations.


    "Every human, neurodiverse or not, has different needs and a different way of functioning. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that they have the autonomy to live life in a way that is healthy and natural for them, whether they are a child, your partner, or an elderly parent." — Katherine McCord


    Connect with Katherine McCord:

    Website: https://www.titanmanagementusa.com/ & https://www.kmccordspeaking.com/

    Show: Career Launch Live: https://www.careerlaunch2020.com/

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@katthehrtitan

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-mccord-093bb343/


    Host contact information: 

    • Email: briansacksnewsletters@gmail.com

    

    Sign up for your FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER at www.stuckinthemiddlenews.com

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    28 mins
  • Jimmy Helmick: How to Mentally and Physically Declutter Your Life
    Aug 20 2024

    About Jimmy Helmick: Jimmy Helmick is a decluttering expert and a staunch advocate for minimalism. With a background in lean manufacturing and Six Sigma, Jimmy has dedicated his career to reducing waste and streamlining processes. His personal journey from stress and dissatisfaction to clarity and purpose inspired him to help others navigate their clutter and align their lives with what truly matters. By focusing on health, growth, and simplicity, Jimmy empowers individuals to clear physical and mental clutter, fostering a more intentional and joyful life.


    In this episode, Brian and Jimmy Helmick discuss:

    • The importance of mental and physical decluttering
    • Mindfulness and intentional living
    • Creating a positive environment
    • Emotional connections to sentimental items


    Key Takeaways:

    • Establishing mindful morning routines, such as waking up earlier and taking time for quiet reflection, can set a positive tone for the day and help manage stress effectively.
    • By decluttering physical spaces in the home, individuals can experience enhanced mental clarity and emotional stability, which are crucial for effectively managing the dual responsibilities of caregiving.
    • Removing electronics from the bedroom and creating a clutter-free environment improves sleep quality and mental clarity, while cutting down social media use reduces mental clutter and distractions, boosting focus on personal goals and well-being.
    • When navigating family dynamics with sentimental or inherited items, it's crucial to assess your own emotional connection to these possessions to make informed decluttering decisions and achieve a more peaceful living environment.


    "Just a little bit of space makes a big, big difference." — Jimmy Helmick


    Connect with Jimmy Helmick:

    Website: https://www.declutteringdaily.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmyhelmick/


    Host contact information: 

    • Email: briansacksnewsletters@gmail.com

    

    Sign up for your FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER at www.stuckinthemiddlenews.com


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    21 mins
  • VA Aid and Attendance Benefits
    Aug 6 2024

    In this episode, Brian shares his journey of managing his mother's costly long-term care after his father's passing. He reveals invaluable insights into the VA aid and attendance benefits, detailing the steps and documents needed to successfully navigate this process. Brian’s experience offers practical advice and highlights the importance of persistence and thorough documentation, equipping you with essential tools to ease the financial and emotional burden of eldercare.


    In this episode, Brian discusses:

    • Balancing the demands of raising children and caring for aging parents
    • Financial struggles related to elderly care
    • VA aid and attendance benefits for veterans and their families
    • Practical advice and tips for managing eldercare responsibilities


    Key Takeaways:

    • The unexpected costs of eldercare can be overwhelming, and finding resources such as VA benefits can significantly alleviate financial burdens.
    • The VA aid and attendance benefit is available for veterans and their surviving spouses, providing monthly financial assistance for those who qualify based on service, need for daily living assistance, and income/assets.
    • Persistence and thorough documentation are crucial when dealing with the VA system, as bureaucratic challenges can delay or complicate receiving benefits.
    • It's essential to gather and submit specific documents, including the DD 214 discharge papers, a physician statement, financial information, and relevant VA forms, while also keeping copies and seeking help from Veteran Service Officers (VSOs) if needed.


    Host contact information: 

    • Email: briansacksnewsletters@gmail.com

    

    Sign up for your FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER at www.stuckinthemiddlenews.com

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    9 mins