Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Sandwich Season Sanity
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Practical Ways People Pleasers Can Balance Identity and Daily Demands ft. Lori Schumaker | 01 Sep 2025 | 00:27:12 | |
Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! In this episode of Sandwich Season Sanity, I’m sitting down with my friend and fellow caregiver, Lori Schumaker. Lori opens up about her caregiving journey and gives her wisdom for those of us going through this season. We discuss topics like embracing your God-given identity, prioritizing personal peace, and letting go of the pressure to do it all—whether that’s handling family caregiving or managing others’ opinions. The episode is filled with relatable moments—like wrestling with people-pleasing tendencies, asking for help, and the healing power of laughter. Plus, Lori shares about her helpful identity workbook and how small, intentional habits (even just ten minutes with God each morning) can restore peace amidst chaos. If you’re caring for aging parents, raising kids, or simply feeling stretched thin, this episode is a gentle reminder that you are enough because God is enough. Resources:
Lori’s Bio: As an AACC Certified Life and Mental Health Coach, writer, and speaker with a Master's in Education and over two decades of ministry experience, Lori Schumaker gently guides women through life's complexities with grace and resilience. Through her award-winning blog, Unveiling Hope at LoriSchumaker.com, she creates resources to help strengthen women's relationship with God, equip them with strategies for mental health, and unveiling hope—empowering them to live free and full. Lori's life story embodies the phrase "unveiled hope." Her own journey through the pain of abortion and the subsequent cycle of shame and insecurity left her feeling shattered, yet anchored by her faith in Christ and armed with practical strategies, Lori found strength and redemption. The adversities that once sent her spiraling are now her testimony to the power of Jesus. As a wife, adoptive, biological, and special needs mom, Lori reflects her Creator's love in every role. She also writes for various publications, speaks at events and podcasts, hosts Unveiling Hope retreats, and authored the award-winning memoir Surrendered Hearts: An Adoption Story of Love, Loss, and Learning to Trust. Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose | |||
| An Emergency Medical Records Checklist for Caregivers ft. Cathy Lawdanski | 18 Aug 2025 | 00:22:20 | |
Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! In this episode of the Sandwich Season Sanity podcast, I’m interviewing Cathy Lawdanski, a retired empty nester with a wealth of wit and wisdom for navigating life’s later seasons. Cathy shares the story behind her essential "Medical Records Checklist," inspired by a personal medical emergency that revealed how critical it is to have up-to-date medical and legal information readily available, especially for empty nesters, caregivers, or anyone entering the sandwich season of life. She outlines the key documents and details—plus practical tips on organizing everything in both physical and digital formats for easy access by loved ones. As a special resource, you can download Cathy’s comprehensive Medical Records Checklist via the link in the show notes—your first step in simplifying emergencies and supporting your loved ones through challenging times. Resources:
My name is Cathy, the Retired Empty Nester. I'm a 60+ wife, mother and grandmother in the empty-nest, retired phase of life. My goal is to THRIVE in these years through SERVING, LEARNING and having FUN! Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose | |||
| Growing a Guilt-Free Prayer Life ft. Janet McHenry | 26 May 2025 | 00:31:49 | |
Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! Episode 8 of the Sandwich Season Sanity podcast features guest, Janet McHenry, national speaker and author of 27 books, including Praying Personalities and her latest, Looking Up: Finding Joy as You Read and Pray Through the Bible. Janet shares insights from her personal sandwich season as a wife, mom, grandmother of 10, and remote caregiver for her mother, who is currently in hospice care. She reflects on the challenges and joys of multigenerational family life, the importance of setting loving boundaries, and how to navigate caregiving responsibilities while also pursuing ministry and personal growth. Janet, a fervent prayer warrior, shares the importance of creating guilt-free, doable spiritual habits, even in busy caregiving seasons, offering practical wisdom for fitting in prayer and scripture reading. The conversation also touches on Janet’s supportive community through her Bible Girls Facebook group, her passion for fostering a purposeful, prayer-filled life, and tips for maintaining peace by prioritizing God’s Word. Resources:
Note: Affiliate links may be included. Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose | |||
| Intentional Long Distance Caregiving ft. Lori Ann Wood | 19 May 2025 | 00:34:52 | |
Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! In this episode of Sandwich Season Sanity, Ruthie interviews Lori Ann Wood about her experiences navigating the complex realities of the "sandwich season"—long-distance caring for aging parents while raising her own children and balancing a serious illness. She discusses the importance of healthy, respectful family communication and highlights the difficulties of helping parents maintain their independence while also ensuring their safety. Throughout the conversation, Lori Ann also reflects on the impact her serious heart condition has had, both on her approach to caregiving and her broader outlook on life. She offers practical advice for setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and finding peace in tumultuous seasons. Lori Ann introduces her book "Divine Detour," which explores faith in the face of unexpected hardships, and shares valuable resources for caregivers, including warning signs for heart failure and prayer guides. The episode is filled with relatable stories, wisdom about family dynamics, and encouragement for listeners to embrace creativity, set healthy boundaries, and stay grounded in faith during challenging times. Resources:
Note: Affiliate links may be included. Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose | |||
| From Worry to Hot Flashes: Sleep Tips for Midlife Moms | 12 May 2025 | 00:19:50 | |
Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! Send a text by tapping the link above and let me know if you like the show! This episode of Sandwich Season Sanity offers essential sleeping tips for busy midlife moms, who are usually either premenopausal, menopausal, or postmenopausal. Ruthie Gray shares candid stories about her own sleep struggles that began during her children’s teenage driving years and continued through empty nest and caregiving seasons. She discusses the anxiety and physical changes, like menopause, that often rob sleep in mid-life and emphasizes the universal need for restful sleep as women grow older. Resources:
Note: Affiliate links may be included. Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose | |||
| Finding New Purpose in Empty Nest ft. Kate Battistelli | 05 May 2025 | 00:24:34 | |
Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! This episode of Sandwich Season Sanity is about navigating the “afterparty” of the empty nest, offering encouragement and wisdom for moms redefining their purpose after their children have grown. Host Ruthie Gray welcomes guest Kate Batastelli—author, former Broadway actress, and mother of Grammy-winning artist Francesca Battistelli—to share her insights and journey. Ruthie and Kate discuss the reality that the shift to an empty nest can bring deep grief and a loss of purposeful identity. Kate shares, “The only way out of grief and heartache is to go through it.” She emphasizes that few moms prepare for this transition emotionally, often feeling blindsided when their central role as "Mom" shifts and their children begin new, independent chapters. Some key thoughts from the episode:
Resources:
Note: Affiliate links may be included. Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose | |||
| Balancing Boundaries: Loving Adult Children Without Losing Yourself ft. Pat Fenner | 28 Apr 2025 | 00:16:25 | |
Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! This episode of Sandwich Season Sanity features a heartfelt check-in between host Ruthie Gray and guest Pat Fenner discussing what it’s like to juggle work commitments, family responsibilities, and grandparenting—all while striving to nurture healthy boundaries with adult children and loved ones. Here are three key takeaways for moms facing similar challenges:
Resources:
Note: affiliate links may be included. Pat Fenner is a devoted advocate for personal transformation and healing. As an accomplished author and podcast producer, Pat has dedicated her career to empowering women, particularly those navigating the challenging waters of post-divorce life. In her latest book, Rebuilding Your Life After a Gray Divorce: A Path to Healing, Joy, and Significance, Pat draws on her own experiences and years of mentoring to offer a lifeline to women struggling to find their footing after a later-in-life divorce. With a compassionate voice and a deep understanding of the emotional and spiritual upheavals faced in later-life separations, Pat has crafted the STRENGTHS framework. This guide is designed to help women savor simplicity, rebuild trust, and embrace a promising future. Her approach is deeply practical, rooted in real-life stories, biblical wisdom, and actionable strategies, encouraging women to reclaim their lives and rediscover joy. In addition to her writing, Pat produces the engaging and insightful podcast "Silver Women, Bright Future" which serves as a platform to explore resilience, healing, and personal growth. She ai Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose | |||
| How to Have Tricky Conversations with Adult Children ft. Melinda Patrick | 21 Apr 2025 | 00:28:48 | |
Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! Today's episode with guest, Melinda Patrick, explores how parents can navigate and maintain healthy relationships with adult children, especially when they choose paths that diverge from their upbringing. As parents, we often wrestle with how to handle our children’s unexpected life choices as they grow into independence. These choices can range from where they shop for groceries, to church attendance, to walking away from their faith. Through her personal experiences, Melinda Patrick shares how to move beyond our instincts of taking these decisions personally and engage with children through tricky conversations. To hear Ruthie and Melinda go deeper on the topic of faith and life, join Ruthie’s private podcast and newsletter, The Peaceful Mom Collection, which provides guidance on parenting in these complex seasons.
Resources mentioned: 1. Download Melinda’s Scripture journaling activity: Tracing The Father’s Heart 2. Melinda’s Podcast: The Bridge Between Us 3. Melinda's Book: The Daring Rescue 4. Ruthie’s Private Podcast: The Peaceful Mom Collection 5. Retreat for Empty Nest Entrepreneurs: Next Steps Retreat Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose | |||
| Real Talk for Caregiver Burnout ft. Rayna Neises | 14 Apr 2025 | 00:31:39 | |
Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! Ruthie Gray explores the concept of "sandwich season," emphasizing the caregiver's role as the central hub between multiple generations, often managing responsibilities for both children and aging parents. She shares her personal experiences with multigenerational caregiving, offering insights into the importance of support and validation for those who feel overwhelmed. Key Takeaways 1. Practical Strategies for Managing Caregiving Challenges: o Being proactive and seeking practical solutions is essential for sustaining your efforts in the long run. 2. Support and Validation for Overwhelmed Caregivers: o Connecting with community and sharing experiences can provide the validation you need. 3. Tips for Maintaining Self-Care: o It's important to prioritize your well-being so you can continue to support your loved ones effectively. Resources · Reyna Neises's podcast, A Season of Caring," which provides relatable stories and advice for caregivers. · Reyna's book, No Regrets: Hope for Your Caregiving Season, available on Amazon. · Ruthie’s own book, Empty Nest Awakening: Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose (Amazon), designed to help individuals navigate new life phases while balancing caregiving responsibilities. Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose | |||
| Managing Anxiety as a Mom and Caregiver | 07 Apr 2025 | 00:11:41 | |
Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! Welcome to Episode 1 of Sandwich Season Sanity! This episode explores finding peace amid fear, particularly for those navigating the challenges of sandwich season—caring for aging parents while supporting growing and adult children.
Resources The Peaceful Mom Collection, a Private Podcast with a deeper look at how to prioritize peace amidst tricky family dynamics, nurture communication and boundaries with adult kids and elderly parents, and gain confidence and clarity on personal endeavors. Check the link here to sign up Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose | |||
| Welcome to Sandwich Season Sanity! | 05 Apr 2025 | 00:05:53 | |
Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! Welcome to Sandwich Season: Peace, joy, and wisdom for moms who are stretched thin in multigenerational caregiving, juggling parenting, grandparenting, and eldercare. Take charge of reactions, set those oh-so-important boundaries, and find time for new passions and hobbies. Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose | |||
| Two Questions to Ask in Your Stressed Season | 21 Jul 2025 | 00:12:05 | |
Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! In this episode of the Sandwich Season Sanity Podcast, I’m discussing the challenge of finding peace during one of life’s most chaotic seasons. This episode offers a compassionate exploration of how true peace isn’t just handed to us—even believers need to take intentional, sometimes uncomfortable steps to experience it fully. I’m sharing personal stories and boundary-setting moments so listeners can know that even when faced with setbacks, there is peace in the midst. Don’t forget to check out the episodes referenced in this show, and consider leaving a rating or review as a “get well” gift to Ruthie as she recovers and prepares for season two! Resources:
Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose | |||
| Dream with God in 60 Minutes | 14 Jul 2025 | 00:19:10 | |
Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! In this episode of the Sandwich Season Sanity podcast, I’m sharing my "Dream with God in 60 Minutes" task-sorting method through a practical, prayer-centered exercise for balancing personal desires, family responsibilities, and your calling from God. We’ll talk about shifting priorities, setting healthy boundaries, and learning to let go of goals that no longer align with your season of life. You’ll be encouraged to embrace your hope endeavors, communicate needs with family, and protect time for what matters most. If you’re struggling to find space for your dreams amidst the busyness of daily life, this episode will inspire and equip you to invite God into your planning—so you can cultivate peace in the sandwich season. Resources:
Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose | |||
| Embracing Legacy: Saying ‘No’ to the Hustle ft. Laura Acuña | 07 Jul 2025 | 00:25:31 | |
Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! In the second half of this episode with Laura Acuna, we’re dissecting the real-life balancing act of being an entrepreneur, author, and mom/caregiver/grandparent. Learn insights on saying “no” and how to prioritize listening to God’s guidance, making time for family, and accepting help in caregiving roles. I give the scoop on my practical routines, like my beloved “coffee before talkie” mornings, plus deep faith practices that underpin my work and my book, Empty Nest Awakening. The conversation also turns to the grace and growth that come with aging, the pivotal role of legacy, and the importance of modeling faith and purpose for the next generation. We discuss resisting hustle culture in the second half of life, focusing instead on rest, presence, and meaningful impact. Whether you’re navigating empty nest life, launching a new passion project, or simply seeking encouragement for the next season, this episode is packed with wisdom, authenticity, and practical tips for women striving to live with intention and trust in God’s faithful plan. Resources:
Note: Affiliate links may be included. Meet Laura: Laura Acuña is a speaker, author, podcast host, and Certified Professional Life Coach (CPCLC). She is the founder of Laura Acuña Ministries and the host of the Still Becoming Podcast. She passionately believes it is never too late for God to write a new story, and is the author of Still Becoming: Hope, Help and Healing for the Diet - Weary Soul. Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose | |||
| Integrating Personal Ambitions and Caregiving ft. Laura Acuña | 30 Jun 2025 | 00:26:53 | |
Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! In this episode of the Sandwich Season Sanity, I’m sharing my guest appearance on the Still Becoming Podcast with Laura Acuña, discussing the unique challenges and opportunities that come with balancing caregiving roles and personal ambitions during midlife. I’ll share my personal journey from being a busy mom of four to finding renewed purpose and productivity in the empty nest stage. Together, we discuss the grief and loss that often accompany this season, but also highlight the possibilities for growth and the exciting opportunities that await midlife moms. We walk you through how the skills, talents, and experiences gained in motherhood can be powerfully redirected into new ventures, such as writing, coaching, and entrepreneurship. With honest stories about overcoming fear, learning new skills (even technology!), and embracing God-given desires, this episode is a must-listen for anyone wondering what’s next after the nest empties. Resources:
Note: Affiliate links may be included. Meet Laura: Laura Acuña is a speaker, author, podcast host, and Certified Professional Life Coach (CPCLC). She is the founder of Laura Acuña Ministries and the host of the Still Becoming Podcast. She passionately believes it is never too late for God to write a new story, and is the author of Still Becoming: Hope, Help and Healing for the Diet - Weary Soul. Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose | |||
| Supporting Your Kids While Caregiving | 23 Jun 2025 | 00:22:23 | |
Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! In this episode of the Sandwich Season Sanity podcast, I sat down with my youngest daughter, Kylie, to explore the unique challenges that arise when a mom transitions into a caregiving role while still raising children. Kylie, who was fourteen when I began caring for my aging parents, shares her perspective of what it was like to experience big family changes at a young age. Together, we walk through the confusion, anxiety, and sense of responsibility that she felt, and the importance of open communication—even when life is unpredictable and overwhelming. Join us as we uncover valuable lessons for families navigating caregiving and parenting at the same time. We’ll discuss practical ways to help children process complex emotions, the role of prayer and faith through difficult seasons, and how embracing vulnerability can foster healing and connection. Walk away encouraged and equipped to build stronger, more understanding relationships within your own family. Resources:
Note: Affiliate links may be included. Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose | |||
| My Journey Through Trauma and Self-Care | 16 Jun 2025 | 00:18:36 | |
Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! In this episode of the Sandwich Season Sanity Podcast, Ruthie opens up about her personal healing journey after years of caregiving and business leadership left her feeling emotionally depleted. She shares a candid reflection on the toll that “little t” trauma—like ongoing stress, caregiver emergencies, and unresolved emotions—can take on mental health, especially for women in midlife. Ruthie emphasizes that seeking counseling and wise counsel is an act of self-care—not a sign of weakness—and a necessary foundation for being able to pour back into others. The episode weaves together practical advice, spiritual encouragement, and personal anecdotes, inspiring listeners not to ignore their own warning signs but to seek healing and peace—even in the midst of busy caregiving seasons. Ruthie reminds everyone that true peace is available now, regardless of life’s chaos, and encourages listeners to take small steps toward prioritizing their own well-being through community, faith, and self-reflection. Resources:
Note: Affiliate links may be included. Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose | |||
| How Healthy Boundaries Reduce Stress ft. Lisa Saruga | 09 Jun 2025 | 00:25:32 | |
Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! In this part two episode with trauma therapist, Lisa Saruga, Ruthie and Lisa focus on how setting boundaries can bring peace to sandwich generation moms. Lisa shares her “property line” metaphor for boundaries, a crucial mindset for overwhelmed caregivers. They discuss real-life examples from their own caregiving journeys and address the unique struggles of maintaining boundaries amidst family dynamics, pride, and guilt. Listeners will hear honest conversation around the importance of pruning even “good” activities during chaotic seasons—like church work, social commitments, or personal projects—in order to preserve peace and health. Ruthie and Lisa talk about navigating difficult transitions, such as sharing care responsibilities with siblings, learning to ask for help, communicating honestly about your own limitations, and releasing the need for control. Lisa also shares resources available on her website, including journaling techniques and a soothing playlist—tools that can help caregivers find calm in the midst of chaos. If you’re navigating the complexities of caregiving and longing for more peace, this episode offers both wisdom and hope. Resources:
Note: Affiliate links may be included. Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose | |||
| Identifying and Managing Caregiver Trauma ft. Lisa Saruga | 02 Jun 2025 | 00:28:07 | |
Click here to send a text and tell us how you like the show! In this episode of Sandwich Season Sanity, Ruthie sits down with Lisa Saruga to explore the often overlooked topic of caregiving trauma. Lisa, a therapist and author of The Trauma Tree, shares her personal experiences of managing care for elderly relatives, highlighting the emotional and sensory overload that caregiving can bring. Both Ruthie and Lisa underscore the reality that caregiving involves not just physical demands, but deep emotional challenges, and subtle stresses that can have a profound impact on the caregiver’s mental health. Throughout the conversation, Lisa unpacks the science behind trauma, explaining how experiences are stored in the brain and how triggers can unexpectedly resurface powerful emotions. The discussion moves beyond simply surviving as a caregiver, focusing on practical ways to find resilience, hope, and even joy amidst ongoing stress. Lisa offers both expert insight and practical tools for our listeners to access that will help caregivers dealing with trauma. Be sure to check the show notes for links to Lisa’s book, website (lisasaruga.com), and free journaling techniques to help you process and find peace during challenging seasons of care. Resources:
Note: Affiliate links may be included. Visit Ruthie's Website at RuthieGray.com Get Ruthie's Sandwich Season Pieces Newsletter Read Ruthie's book, Empty Nest Awakening; Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose | |||