What if the journey of aging and caregiving could feel less overwhelming and more connected, hopeful, and human?
The willGather Podcast: Navigating the World with Your Aging Loved One invites you into conversations that empower older adults, family caregivers, and aging-services professionals with insight, dignity, and direction.
Hosted by Nicole Will, family caregiver, advocate, and founder of willGather, this top-rated weekly podcast shares heartfelt stories, practical guidance, and meaningful conversations with leaders across dementia care, senior living, home care, and the broader care economy. Nicole blends lived experience with professional expertise, drawing from her background in Social Gerontology, her years as a senior living director, and the personal caregiving journey that inspired her work.
Each episode offers a warm, grounded space to learn, feel seen, and discover resources that make the road ahead just a little easier. Whether you're caring for a loved one, supporting families through your profession, or simply curious about what it means to age well, you'll find connection, clarity, and hope here.
Disclaimer: We are not medical professionals and do not provide medical advice. For medical questions, please consult a qualified healthcare provider. Guest opinions are their own.
Stay connected: Follow the show for new episodes each week. To explore guests, resources, and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com
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Inside U.S. News & World Report Nursing Home Ratings: What Families Need to Know with Ben Harder, Managing Editor and Chief of Health Analysis at U.S. News & World Report
Épisode 229
mercredi 19 novembre 2025 • Durée 49:49
How do we measure quality care in a way that truly supports families? In this episode, Nicole sits down with Ben Harder, Managing Editor and Chief of Health Analysis at U.S. News & World Report, to explore the heart and science behind the 2026 Best Nursing Homes ratings.
Together, they break down the updated methodology, what makes top-performing facilities stand out, and how families can use these insights to make confident, compassionate decisions, whether navigating short-term rehab or long-term care.
This conversation brings clarity to a system that often feels overwhelming, offering a grounded look at how data, transparency, and thoughtful evaluation can guide better care for the people we love most.
View US News & World Report Best Nursing Homes HERE.
Thank you to our Sponsor
Zinnia TV is a therapeutic dementia care platform that supports caregivers.
We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.
When Systems Fail, Caregivers Lead with Jessica C. Guthrie, M.Ed, Founder, Career & Caregiving Collide™, Caregiver Advocate and Educator
Épisode 228
mercredi 12 novembre 2025 • Durée 49:11
At 26, Jessica C. Guthrie, M.Ed became a full-time caregiver for her mom living with early-onset Alzheimer's. Now a leading advocate and educator, Jessica is reshaping how we understand the intersection of career and caregiving. In this conversation, she and host Nicole Will explore love, equity, and representation in care, what it means to be seen, to lead with compassion, and to build a world where every caregiver's story belongs.
Zinnia TV is a therapeutic dementia care platform that supports caregivers. Creating engaging, dementia-friendly video content to reduce anxiety, spark memories, and provide meaningful moments of connection for individuals living with cognitive challenges and their caregivers. We invite you to use the code GATHER20 for 20% off an annual subscription HERE.
We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.
Permission to Be Seen in Caregiving & Finding Yourself Again with Nikki Nurse, Writer, Wellness Advocate, and Caregiver
Épisode 219
mercredi 7 mai 2025 • Durée 54:35
What happens when the roles we've known all our lives—daughter, professional, partner—are suddenly eclipsed by one word: caregiver? For so many, caregiving becomes not just a responsibility but an identity. And with that comes the heavy mix of self-sacrifice, emotional resilience, and a quiet grief. But what if there's another way to see it? What if caregiving could be both a deep act of love and an opportunity to hold onto who we are, to grow, and to even rediscover our power?
Today's guest, Nikki Nurse, spent 12 years as a full-time caregiver for her mom, who lived with early-onset dementia and Alzheimer's. That journey shaped not only her days but her entire understanding of empathy, resilience, and what it means to care for someone while still caring for yourself. Nikki's story is one of navigating grief, finding emotional respite, and redefining what sustainable self-care looks like—not as a luxury, but as a lifeline for caregivers.
In this conversation, we'll explore the truth behind caregiving and self-sacrifice, what sustainable self-care really looks like, and why permission to be seen is a radical act for caregivers. Nikki will share how to navigate grief and guilt, set boundaries, and even break the generational patterns that tell us caregiving must mean losing ourselves. Nikki shares how AI can help caregivers by easing the mental load—automating tasks, offering reminders, and creating space for what really matters: being present and caring without burning out. We'll also talk about reclaiming confidence, embracing resilience, and the small, powerful ways caregivers can give themselves flowers—every day.
Asset Protection: Planning for a Secure Financial Future with John K. Ross, Elder Law Attorney
Épisode 131
mercredi 2 août 2023 • Durée 53:41
How can older adults and families ensure they have the resources and support they need while safeguarding everything they've worked for their entire lives?
Today, we talk about the critical topic of asset protection, addressing the challenges faced when planning for care in the later stages of life.
I'm honored to have John K. Ross as our guest. John is the founder of Ross & Shoalmire, P.L.L.C., one of Texas's largest boutique estate planning and asset protection law firms. With a distinguished legal career spanning over 20 years, John is a nationally recognized expert in estate planning, asset protection, and taxation. He has assisted countless families in protecting their assets and maximizing their resources. John's insights have been featured in prestigious publications like the Wall Street Journal and Forbes Magazine, and he has spoken at national events on estate planning and asset protection issues. Join us as John shares his expertise and we gain valuable knowledge for securing a stable financial future.
From various types of senior living and home care costs to estate planning, we'll explore the often-overlooked aspects of preparing for the unexpected. We'll discuss how a health crisis can lead to a housing and financial crisis, and what legal steps can be taken to mitigate the financial impact.
Join us as we uncover three primary ways to finance long-term care. Discover the steps you can take to shield your assets and ensure they won't hinder your eligibility for government assistance programs like Medicaid, VA, and Medicare.
Throughout this podcast, John answers crucial questions about asset protection strategies, tax implications, the best time to start planning, and the legalities surrounding asset transfers.
We explore the eligibility requirements for government benefits, Medicaid planning strategies, and how trusts can be used to benefit both you and your heirs. We'll also address the importance of having proper estate planning documents in place to ensure your wishes are followed and your assets protected. If you're looking for sound advice and expert guidance, this podcast is a must-listen.
Finding Peace in the Move: Empowering Families in Senior Living Transitions with Maureen Longoria, Co-Founder of LivNow Relocation
Épisode 130
mercredi 26 juillet 2023 • Durée 43:06
Moving our loved ones into a senior living community can be one of the most challenging experiences that we go through. We are trying to figure out how to manage not only the move itself but also selling our house, organizing, downsizing, discarding, and possibly donating all that we have acquired in our lifetime. This process can take an emotional toll on us as adult children and our loved ones as well. We talk about how to approach this experience with compassion and empathy when having difficult conversations about this transition.
My guest today is Maureen Longoria, she is the co-founder of LivNow Relocation, a company with over 50 years of corporate relocation experience. They understand the complexity of this life transition and the various aspects that go into it. Maureen also recognizes how stressful and overwhelming it can be, especially for older adults.
During our conversation, we had the opportunity to discuss the common challenges faced during this relocation process and how to handle the emotional toll it can have on families and older adults. We explored why having a third party can be helpful while navigating this emotionally charged move.
Maureen shares advice for adult children who are going through this process for the first time and informs us on the entire process, starting from the initial consultation until the move-in day. We also touched upon how LivNow Relocation keeps up-to-date on the latest trends and practices in the industry and what the future of senior living relocation services might look like, along with the many ways their profit-for-purpose company supports families.
This interview with Maureen Longoria sheds light on the intricacies of moving our loved ones into senior living communities and provides valuable insights for anyone navigating this phase of life.
LivNow Relocation is honored and excited to be included in the Summer 2023 cohort for the
Caring Through Communication: Speech Therapy & Dementia Care with Adria Thompson, Speech-Language Pathologist & Founder of Be Light Care Consulting
Épisode 129
mercredi 19 juillet 2023 • Durée 48:02
How can speech therapy techniques revolutionize the way we approach dementia care? Today my guest Adria Thompson, a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist with extensive experience in dementia care, will reveal the power of communication strategies and environmental modifications that can significantly improve the lives of individuals with dementia. Join us as we delve into the "how" behind Adria's transformative approach to supporting families on their caregiving journey.
In today's episode, we'll delve into the world of speech therapy and its crucial role in dementia care. We'll explore the challenges individuals with dementia face in both speaking and comprehension. Adria will share her expertise on strategies that can help maintain communication and swallowing abilities, providing valuable advice for caregivers. We'll also address common misconceptions about dementia behaviors and discover the reasons behind certain behaviors like resisting showering.
Adria will guide us through the environmental modifications that can make the showering experience more enjoyable and less overwhelming for individuals with dementia. She'll also shed light on successful communication techniques that can assist caregivers in navigating this process with their loved ones.
We discuss the ways Adria encourages and supports families on their journey of caring for someone with dementia. We'll also explore the available resources that can aid in providing the best possible care.
And finally, Adria has an exciting announcement! She'll give us a sneak peek into her upcoming course, focusing on the art of showering someone living with dementia.
We unravel the immense value of speech therapy in dementia care, learn about the process of finding and receiving speech therapy services, and gain a deeper understanding of how these professionals can make a positive impact in the lives of those with dementia.
We'll Be Back Soon with Nicole Will, Founder of willGather
mercredi 31 mai 2023 • Durée 02:26
We will be taking our annual summer break, and as we temporarily say goodbye, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support and dedicated listenership. It's been an incredible journey so far, and we couldn't have achieved such milestones without your continuous enthusiasm and encouragement.
Today, we proudly stand among the top 15% of podcasts shared globally on Spotify, and have graced the Apple charts in numerous countries. It's an achievement that fills me with immense pride and motivates me to continue delivering the best content possible. This means we are making an impact and fulfilling our mission of supporting older adults, family caregivers, and the care economy!
Out of three million podcasts, we are thrilled to announce that we currently rank in the top 10% according to Listen Score. This recognition is a testament to your unwavering support and the genuine connection we've established with our amazing audience.
While we may be taking a short break, rest assured that this is not the end of our podcasting journey. We are working tirelessly behind the scenes, preparing to return with fresh episodes that will captivate and engage you like never before.
During this hiatus, we encourage you to revisit our past episodes and share them with others who may be interested. You can find our entire catalog on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other major platforms. If you haven't already, feel free to follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses into our podcasting adventures.
Your support means the world to us, and we eagerly look forward to reconnecting with you soon. Stay tuned, as we'll be back before you know it, armed with more compelling stories, intriguing interviews, and thought-provoking discussions.
Thank you once again for being a part of our incredible podcasting journey! We will see you soon!
The Power of Virtual, Immersive Travel: Igniting the Senses and Sparking Conversation with Jason Wei & Tricia Norton, Founders of Discover Live
Épisode 128
mercredi 24 mai 2023 • Durée 50:13
My guests today are Jason Wei and Trisha Norton, founders of Discover Live. They are pioneers and experts in live, virtual world travel. They have been virtually transporting people to amazing destinations and events around the world. They have worked with top Fortune 1000 companies, educators, senior living communities, as well as families of older adults and private customers in their homes.
Today, we will talk about the transformative power of virtual and immersive travel, how travel experiences shape and impact our lives, how traveling enhances our understanding of different cultures and people, and the benefits of exposing ourselves to new experiences. When we step outside of our comfort zone and try something new, that's where the magic can happen and why we want to engage in travel and new experiences. We will learn how the remote travel experience offered by Discover Live benefits people who may be limited in their ability to physically travel and their caregivers. We will discuss how we can use this as a connection tool with our loved ones, reminisce about past experiences, and forge future conversations. We will also look at how travel can bridge the gap between people, connecting us from various backgrounds and cultures. We will explore how we become more empathetic and compassionate towards others. Lastly, we will talk all about how Discover Live works, where we can travel in the world, and what that experience is like through their certified and licensed tour guides. Thank you Jason and Tricia for sharing your love of immersive travel with all of us!
*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co. A boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!
Aging Solo: Planning Ahead for a Vibrant Future with Joy Loverde, Author of Who Will Take Care Of Me When I'm Old? & The Complete Eldercare Planner
Épisode 127
lundi 22 mai 2023 • Durée 53:05
As the longevity revolution continues, an increasing number of individuals will find themselves in the role of solo agers. This population is expanding due to a multitude of factors, including enhanced longevity, shifting family dynamics, and evolving demographics.
My guest today is Joy Loverde. She is the author of two books, one of which focuses on family caregivers. The first book is titled "The Complete Elder Care Planner." Joy is also the author of "Who Will Take Care of Me When I'm Old?".
Joy's expertise lies in teaching us how to be curious, informed, critical thinkers, and resilient individuals who remain actively engaged and contribute to society. In addition to being an author, Joy is also a speaker who has been quoted in reputable publications such as the Wall Street Journal, TIME Magazine, New York Times, U.S. News & World Report, and Psychology Today , among many others. She has been interviewed on prominent shows like the Today Show, Good Morning America, and NPR. Critics describe her work as "illuminating, eye-opening, and essential reading for everyone over 40".
We talk about solo aging and the importance of planning ahead. She highlights the top three planning needs. She also emphasizes that true wellness encompasses intellectual, emotional, spiritual, and social aspects, not just physical health. We explore the unique aspects of solo aging compared to aging with a partner, highlighting the challenges that come with being a solo ager. She discusses successful interactions between solo agers and younger generations, emphasizing the importance of these connections. Joy also shares about the availability of public resources and the benefits of solo aging. She addresses the navigation of caregiver shortages, offers insights on developing resilience as one ages and how we stay engaged, and be givers.
Personally, I have had the pleasure of meeting Joy and seeing her speak live, and I can attest that she is just as wonderful in person. Joy has become a friend, and I am so happy to share her work with all of you.
Flourishing Together: Community and Innovation in Dementia Care with Allyson Schrier, CEO and Co-Founder of Zinnia
Épisode 126
mercredi 17 mai 2023 • Durée 59:42
Allyson Schrier's life took an unexpected turn when her husband was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia. At the time, he was 47 years old, and their kids were 12 and 15. Like many families, they faced the challenges of caring for their loved one and have a deep desire to help families thrive beyond the diagnosis.
My guest today is Allyson Schrier, CEO and co-founder of Zinnia. Allyson is also the recipient of the Maude Awards for innovation in Alzheimer's care and was named a visionary caregiver by caregiving.com. Zinnia was formed in 2019 in response to Allyson's experience as a dementia family caregiver. Allyson joined forces with the former designer of Apple's memory product, and together they created an app for connected TVs and a mobile app that delivers a library of videos functioning as a non-pharmacological tool to create connections, reduce stress, and provide soothing aids to help with daily living activities.
In our conversation today, Allyson vulnerably shares her experience as a spouse caregiving for her husband, as well as the factors we should be looking for. We talk about the specific challenges of frontotemporal dementia and the unique dynamics of spouse caregiving. We shed light on early detection, as the average age of diagnosis for this condition falls between 30 and 50 years, but confirmation can often take a long time. We discuss what we should be looking for and Allyson's personal journey in finding hope and managing caregiver burnout, while also covering available resources such as the invaluable expertise of Teepa Snow and the groundbreaking work at the University of Washington's Memory and Brain Wellness Center.
We also address the delicate issue of when a loved one wants to keep their condition a secret and discuss the gifts that come from sharing the diagnosis with friends, family, and coworkers. Together, we explore the power of finding community and the impact of research and prevention. Allyson shares about the innovative partnerships they've established, including the collaboration with Touchtown and their participation in the . This has been a transformative journey for Allyson, and she emphasizes the importance of supporting one another in driving to make a difference in the lives of those living with dementia. Their mission is to ensure that no one faces the challenges of memory loss alone, and Allyson's call, like the name and flower of Zinnia, is that we bloom even in the harshest conditions. Zinnia helps people flourish beyond their diagnosis. Thank you, Allyson, for your work in education and advocacy!
Zinnia TV is a therapeutic dementia care platform that supports caregivers. We invite you to use the code GATHER20 for 20% off an annual subscription HERE.
We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.
Please follow for updates, rate & review!
For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com
Listen to John's podcast: Big Picture Retirement HERE.
*Disclaimer: We are not providing financial or legal advice. Please seek your own advisor to assist you with your financial and legal needs.
*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co. A boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!
We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.
Please follow for updates, rate & review!
For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com
Nicole Will is our host and founder of willGather.
*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co. A boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!
We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.
Please follow for updates, rate & review!
For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com
Nicole Will is our host and founder of willGather.
Thank you, Adria, for the incredible gift you are to all of us! I've learned so much from you and I know others will too.
*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co. A boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!
We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.
Please follow for updates, rate & review!
For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com
Nicole Will is our host and founder of willGather.
*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co. A boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!
LISTEN NOW: Apple Podcasts, Spotify & on your favorite podcast platform.
We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.
Please follow for updates, rate & review!
For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com
Nicole Will is our host and founder of willGather.
We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.
Please follow for updates, rate & review!
For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com
Nicole Will is our host and founder of willGather.
*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co. A boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!
We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.
Please follow for updates, rate & review!
For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com.
Nicole Will is our host and founder of willGather.
*This episode is brought to you by Gigi Betty co. A boutique gift shop raising awareness and funds for caregivers and care partners. Show now at www.gigibettyco.com. Use the special code WILLGATHER20 for 20% off your order- Just for our podcast listeners!
We are not medical professionals and are not providing any medical advice. If you have any medical questions, we recommend that you talk with a medical professional of your choice. willGather has taken care in selecting its speakers but the opinions of our speakers are theirs alone. Thank you for your continued interest in our podcasts.
Please follow for updates, rate & review!
For more information about our guest, podcast & sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willgatherpodcast.com
Nicole Will is our host and founder of willGather.
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