Explore every episode of the podcast The Dementia Dialogues
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 053 - Vascular Dementia & Grief: Finding Strength with Sue Strachen | 07 Dec 2025 | 00:43:01 | |
Diagnosed with vascular dementia at 58, Sue Strachan turned fear into purpose. Now an Alzheimer's Research UK ambassador, she shares how courage, self-care and hope help her navigate life after diagnosis — and why finding meaning matters more than ever. | |||
| Magic Moment: Ep 020 - Kate Curtis | 03 Dec 2025 | 00:10:40 | |
In this week's magic moment, we go back to episode 20 where I speak to Kate Curtis. | |||
| 048 - Switch On Joy: Tech that Transforms Dementia Care with John Ramsay | 02 Nov 2025 | 00:42:39 | |
From corporate law to creating life-changing tech, John Ramsay shares how Social-Ability's Happiness Programmeuses light, sound, and touch to unlock connection and joy for people living with dementia. He explains why small moments can transform visits, how care homes can feel alive again, and the surprising ripple effects for families and staff. Learn more at www.social-ability.com. | |||
| Magic Moment: Ep 002 - Bernie Layfield | 29 Oct 2025 | 00:08:00 | |
In this week's magic moment, we go back to episode 2 where I speak to Bernie Layfield. | |||
| 047 - Laughter, Mischief and Alzheimer's with Ronnie Dean | 26 Oct 2025 | 00:54:28 | |
Diagnosed with young onset Alzheimer's at 49, Ronnie Dean brings warmth, wit and hard-won wisdom to this uplifting conversation. She shares the early signs she spotted, the trauma of a poor first diagnosis, and how she transformed it into powerful advocacy—training medics, redesigning ambulances, and championing carers. A hopeful listen about living your best life, making memories, and keeping dignity at the centre. | |||
| Magic Moment: Ep 010 - Ryan Dixon | 22 Oct 2025 | 00:06:09 | |
In this week's magic moment, we go back to episode 10 where I speak to Ryan Dixon. | |||
| 046 - Friendship, Connection, and Respite: The Filo Project Approach to Dementia Care with Jude Pinder | 19 Oct 2025 | 00:54:14 | |
Could dementia day care feel more like a day with friends? Jude Pinder, COO of The Filo Project, reveals how their small-group, home-based model helps people with dementia thrive, build friendships, and stay connected — while giving carers the precious gift of guilt-free respite. 👉 https://www.thefiloproject.co.uk | |||
| Magic Moment: Ep 024 - Mandy Cheyne | 15 Oct 2025 | 00:07:14 | |
In this week's magic moment, we go back to episode 24 where I speak to Mandy Cheyne. | |||
| 045 - Finding Joy, Without Words with Rachael Savage | 12 Oct 2025 | 00:59:03 | |
In this inspiring conversation, Rachael Savage, Artistic Director of Vamos Theatre, shares how wordless, full-mask performances like Finding Joy have transformed the way people connect with those living with dementia. From training care homes to empowering families, she reveals how non-verbal communication, play, and touch can spark joy and change culture. A must-listen for anyone wanting practical ways to care with more empathy and creativity. 👉 Webinar link - https://www.vamostheatre.co.uk/learning/join-in/next-public-workshops | |||
| Magic Moment: Ep 012 - Debbie Carroll | 08 Oct 2025 | 00:09:07 | |
In this week's magic moment, we go back to episode 12 where I speak to Debbie Carroll. | |||
| 044 - Scott Mitchell on Caring for Dame Barbara Windsor - And Why You Must Care for Yourself Too | 05 Oct 2025 | 00:59:15 | |
Scott Mitchell joins me to share his powerful journey through love, loss, and advocacy. As Dame Barbara Windsor's husband and carer, Scott reflects on what he learned, what helped, and what still needs to change. A heartfelt conversation full of honesty, humour, and hard-won hope. | |||
| Magic Moment: Ep 004 - Simon McDermott | 01 Oct 2025 | 00:09:56 | |
In this week's magic moment, we go back to episode 4 where I speak to Simon McDermott. | |||
| 052 - Grief Before Goodbye with Kate Curtis | 30 Nov 2025 | 00:45:37 | |
Carer and daughter Kate Curtis returns to name the grief caregivers feel long before goodbye — the 'droplets' no leaflet mentions. We talk anticipatory grief, guilt, counselling, support networks, and choosing love in the moments we still have. | |||
| 043 - Hope, Hype, or Heartbreak? Understanding Dementia Treatments with Aisling O'Neil | 28 Sep 2025 | 00:53:12 | |
Headlines about new dementia drugs can feel overwhelming — is it hope or just hype? In this episode, neuroscience graduate Aisling O'Neil breaks down what clinical trials and treatments really mean in simple, practical terms. Together, we explore progress, perspective, and why the voices of caregivers and families matter more than ever. Resource link 👉 https://youtu.be/hPmm9W16yaM?si=8EQM2XJCBLNlUOjF | |||
| Magic Moment: Ep 021 - Rosie Polya | 24 Sep 2025 | 00:09:08 | |
In this week's magic moment, we go back to episode 21 where I speak to Rosie Polya. | |||
| 042 - Finding Heaven Island: A Caregiver's Journey with Rick Henkin | 21 Sep 2025 | 00:36:30 | |
Rick Henkin shares how caring for his wife Sonia through Alzheimer's inspired him to create the Caregiver Mastery System. We explore mindset shifts, self-compassion, and why acceptance can be a powerful tool for caregivers. | |||
| Magic Moment: Ep 015 - Dr Becky Carlyle | 17 Sep 2025 | 00:09:36 | |
In this week's magic moment, we go back to episode 15 where I speak to Dr Becky Carlyle. | |||
| 041 - The 'Dad Standard' of Care with Chris Taylor | 14 Sep 2025 | 00:43:27 | |
Chris Taylor, owner of Bridgewater Home Care Sandwell, shares how his late father inspired him to build a care service grounded in compassion. We discuss his "Dad Standard" approach, the importance of early dementia education, and why veterans face higher dementia risks. | |||
| Magic Moment: Ep 008 - Rhian Pitt | 10 Sep 2025 | 00:10:42 | |
In this week's magic moment, we go back to episode 8 where I speak to Rhian Pitt. | |||
| 040 - Walking the Talk: A New Vision for Dementia with Fernando Agguzoli | 07 Sep 2025 | 00:38:59 | |
Fernando Aguzzoli shares how his love for his grandmother inspired Walk the Talk for Dementia, a global movement breaking down stigma and bringing people together. We discuss belonging, collaboration, and why dementia can be an opportunity for growth. Find out more here: https://www.walkingfordementia.org | |||
| 039 - Dining With Dignity: Alex Fleming on Mealtimes in Care | 31 Aug 2025 | 00:42:49 | |
What if mealtimes in care homes became moments of connection, not just tasks? In this episode, Alex Fleming from Maria Mallaband Care Group shares how dining can transform care — from classical music before dinner to creating experiences like "fish and chips on the beach." A fresh take on food, purpose, and person-centred care. 👉 If you enjoy the episode, don't forget to follow, rate, and share The Dementia Dialogues — it really helps us reach more listeners who care. | |||
| 038 - "If You Can Keep Your Head": Dan's Story of Dementia, Grief and Grace | 24 Aug 2025 | 00:43:29 | |
Dan Norman joins me to share his experience of supporting his dad through dementia and now helping care for his mum. We talk grief, family roles, the power of planning ahead, and why kindness and patience go a long way.
A tender, thoughtful episode filled with wisdom and warmth. | |||
| 037 - Thank You For Being A Carer: What Every Unpaid Carer Should Know with Rachel John | 17 Aug 2025 | 00:49:53 | |
Rachel John returns to dive deeper into the realities of unpaid caregiving. We explore why recognising yourself as a carer can be life-changing, what support is (and isn't) out there, and the emotional toll of doing it all alone. A must-listen for anyone supporting a loved one with dementia. | |||
| Magic Moment: Ep 013 - Sue Lloyd | 26 Nov 2025 | 00:08:38 | |
In this week's magic moment, we go back to episode 13 where I speak to Sue Lloyd. | |||
| 036 - Redefining Home Care: From Tick-Boxes to True Connection with Kate Pilkington | 10 Aug 2025 | 00:48:41 | |
What does dignified, person-centred home care really look like? In this episode, Kate Pilkington from Riverpath Care shares how her team blend lived experience, clinical insight, and practical innovation to support both families and people living with dementia. A must-listen for anyone navigating care decisions. | |||
| 035 - The Week Everything Changed: Michael's Life After Diagnosis | 03 Aug 2025 | 00:46:55 | |
Michael Booth was diagnosed with young onset Alzheimer's at 46 — just months after losing his mum to the same disease. In this powerful conversation, he shares the raw reality of that diagnosis, how he's reshaped his life with purpose, and the many ways he's working to make dementia support better for everyone. A moving and motivating listen. | |||
| 034 - Finding Your Village: Support for Sons, Daughters & Families of Young Onset - with Grania McKittrick | 27 Jul 2025 | 00:41:45 | |
What if your parent was diagnosed with dementia in their 40s or 50s — and you were still at school? In this episode, Grania McKittrick from Lorenzo's House shares how their global community is transforming support for families affected by young onset dementia. Website link: https://www.lorenzoshouse.org | |||
| 033 - Five Ways to Wellbeing with Beth Britton MBE | 20 Jul 2025 | 00:50:35 | |
Beth Britton cared for her dad through 19 years of vascular dementia, starting at just 12 years old. Now an MBE-awarded advocate, she joins me to share her journey — from heartbreaking care experiences to creating real change. We explore the Five Ways to Wellbeing, how small moments can make a big difference, and why personal experience should be at the heart of dementia education. A powerful episode for families, carers, and professionals alike. | |||
| 032 - A Bigger World Awaits: Rediscovering Joy After a Dementia Diagnosis with Ruth Thompson | 13 Jul 2025 | 00:39:00 | |
What if life didn't have to shrink after a dementia diagnosis? Ruth Thompson from Dementia Adventure shares how their supported holidays, carer training, and nature-based approach are helping families rediscover joy, confidence, and connection. This uplifting episode is packed with practical insights and fresh hope. Find out more:
📘 Facebook – facebook.com/dementiaadventure | |||
| 031 - Running, Ronnie & Reality: A Son's Story of Young Onset Dementia with Will Dean | 06 Jul 2025 | 00:45:41 | |
At just 16, Will Dean's world changed when his mum, Ronnie, was diagnosed with young onset dementia. In this honest and emotional conversation, Will shares the reality of becoming a caregiver alongside his sister Lizzie, how they navigated a broken system, and how running became his escape and his voice. A powerful reminder that young people are impacted too — and deserve to be heard. | |||
| 030 - The Blue Chair That Changed Everything - with Dr Kellyn Lee | 29 Jun 2025 | 00:59:56 | |
What if the key to better dementia care was as simple as a blue chair? In this episode, Dr Kellyn Lee introduces Material Citizenship — an evidence-based approach that's quietly revolutionising care. From reducing distress to restoring purpose, everyday objects have the power to transform lives. It's time we looked more closely at what it really means to live well with dementia. | |||
| 029 - Living Loudly with Dementia with Pete Middleton | 22 Jun 2025 | 00:40:50 | |
A dementia diagnosis isn't the end — just ask Pete Middleton. Living with dementia and more driven than ever, he's on a mission to show others what's possible. He invites anyone diagnosed to join him in shaping change via the Three Nations Dementia Working Group. This is a rallying cry you don't want to miss! | |||
| 028 - 'Dementia - Life Changing, Not Life Ending' - With Karen Truman | 15 Jun 2025 | 00:48:19 | |
In this episode, Dementia Coordinator Karen Truman reveals how Gibraltar is reimagining dementia care through training, community engagement, and compassionate support systems. Discover how small changes can make a big difference—wherever you are in the world. | |||
| 027 - 'Early Onset Frontal Temporal Dementia: A Daughter's Story' with Beth Jones | 08 Jun 2025 | 00:47:19 | |
What if the first signs of dementia looked more like mental health struggles? Beth Jones opens up about caring for her mum, Jill, after an early onset frontal temporal dementia diagnosis. This heartfelt episode explores missed signs, medical frustrations, and the emotional highs and lows of family caregiving. | |||
| 051 - One Year Later: The Truth About What Families Still Don't Know About Dementia | 23 Nov 2025 | 00:28:33 | |
A year on from launching The Dementia Dialogues, Natalie reflects on the highs, lessons, and unexpected moments that shaped the podcast — from the stories that changed her perspective to the insights she wishes every family had sooner. A heartfelt look back, and a hopeful glimpse ahead to year two. | |||
| 026 - Understanding Hidden Pain with Drew Hunt | 01 Jun 2025 | 00:46:38 | |
What if you could see pain when someone can't tell you they're hurting? Drew Hunt from PainChek shares how AI is transforming dementia care by helping caregivers detect and manage pain more effectively. Find out more at www.painchek.com or follow @PainChek on social media. | |||
| 025 - Mum, Let's Talk: An Honest Conversation About Care | 25 May 2025 | 00:44:05 | |
Natalie sits down with her mum, Christine, for an honest conversation about her Advanced Care Plan. Together, they explore faith, family, care preferences, and the emotional side of planning ahead. A moving reminder that end-of-life planning is really about love, dignity, and peace of mind. | |||
| 024 - 'The Angels that are Admiral Nurses' with Mandy Cheyne | 18 May 2025 | 00:48:47 | |
Caring for a loved one with dementia can feel overwhelming, but support is available. Admiral Nurse Mandy Cheyne shares expert advice on navigating dementia care, managing caregiver guilt and burnout, and making difficult decisions with confidence. Plus, find out how to access Dementia UK's free helpline for one-to-one specialist support. Dementia UK Admiral Nurse Helpline: 0800 888 6678 (open 7 days a week) Book a free video or phone appointment with an Admiral Nurse: dementiauk.org/appointment | |||
| 023 - From Trauma To Triumph with Kelly Meany | 11 May 2025 | 00:35:15 | |
Caregiving isn't just about helping—it's about adapting, grieving, and finding resilience in the hardest moments. In this episode, therapist and caregiver Kelly Meany shares her personal journey caring for her mother with dementia, offering both lived experience and professional advice. From navigating trauma and burnout to finding connection and support, Kelly's insights are invaluable for caregivers and families. 📲 Connect with Kelly on Instagram @thellieshow or via email at kelly@healingwithkelly.com. | |||
| 022 - Diagnosis, Memories & Love with June Harris | 04 May 2025 | 00:35:36 | |
What's it like to navigate a parent's dementia journey as an only child? June Harris shares her experience—from the challenges of diagnosis to the unbreakable bond she shared with her mother. A heartfelt conversation about love, loss, and the memories that remain. | |||
| 021 - 'TV That Cares' with Rosie Polya | 27 Apr 2025 | 00:30:19 | |
Imagine a TV streaming service designed specifically for people living with dementia—where every show is calming, engaging, and supportive. Rosie Polya from My Life Films joins me to share how My Life TV is transforming entertainment for those with dementia and their caregivers. Plus, don't miss out on the free trial to experience the benefits firsthand! | |||
| 020 - 'Dementia, Decline & the Fight for Better Care' with Kate Curtis | 20 Apr 2025 | 00:46:21 | |
Caring for a loved one with dementia is an emotional and exhausting journey. Kate Curtis, The Carers Coach, shares her personal experience of caring for both her mum with dementia and her dad with Parkinson's. We discuss the rapid decline of her mum, the lack of support for unpaid carers, and why making early plans is crucial. Find Kate on Instagram @katecurtis or search The Carers Coach. | |||
| 019 - 'Childhood Stress and Dementia" - Dr Sarah Bauermeister | 13 Apr 2025 | 00:24:07 | |
Could childhood stress increase your risk of dementia? And could a simple hearing test help protect your brain? Dr. Sarah Bauermeister, associate professor of cognitive neuropsychology, joins me to explore the powerful links between stress, hearing, and dementia risk—plus practical steps to support lifelong brain health. | |||
| 018 - Dementia's Unexpected Gifts with Aisha Dalal | 06 Apr 2025 | 00:31:37 | |
What if dementia revealed something beautiful about a loved one you never knew? Speech and Language Therapist Aisha Dalal shares expert tips for supporting communication, eating, and swallowing, while also reflecting on her grandad's journey—including an unexpected discovery that brought them even closer. We talk about staying active, finding connection, and cherishing the small moments that matter most. | |||
| 017 - 'Letting The Light In' - Caroline Southgate | 30 Mar 2025 | 00:54:01 | |
Join me and Caroline Southgate, physiotherapist and founder of Doris Jones Home Care, as we discuss mobility in the elderly, maintaining purpose, and the importance of planning care early. Caroline shares insights into frustrations in the care sector and practical advice for finding the right home care support. | |||
| Magic Moment: Ep 017 - Caroline Southgate | 19 Nov 2025 | 00:09:10 | |
In this week's magic moment, we go back to episode 17 where I speak to Caroline Southgate. | |||
| 016 - Home or Care Home with Susan Seddon | 23 Mar 2025 | 00:35:08 | |
When the roles reverse, how do you navigate becoming a parent to your own parents? Susan Seddon shares her journey of caring for both her mum and dad with dementia while balancing work, family, and the emotional weight of that responsibility. We explore the tough choices, the lack of caregiver support, and why she chose to become a full time carer over a care home. | |||
| 015 - 'Cognitive Resilience and Alzheimers' with Dr Becky Carlyle | 16 Mar 2025 | 00:38:42 | |
Join us for an enlightening episode with Dr Becky Carlyle as we explore the groundbreaking research on cognitive resilience and the proteins that enhance it. Discover her biggest findings and the surprising impact on hearing aids on cognitive health. If you're curious about how to strengthen your mind, this conversation is a must-listen! | |||
| 014 - Acceptance Is Everything - Jane Lowe | 09 Mar 2025 | 00:38:38 | |
Join us for a conversation with neuroscientist Jane Lowe, founder of Ivy House, as we explore holisitc dementia care. Discover what compassionate care looks like and the key factors that can transform the lives of those living with dementia. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about improving dementia care! | |||
| 013 - Heartbreak and Hope in Dementia Caregiving' - Sue Lloyd | 02 Mar 2025 | 00:41:52 | |
Sue Lloyd shares her heartfelt journey of caring for her parents, both diagnosed with dementia. From navigating the healthcare system to the emotional toll of transitioning them to a care home, Sue highlights the challenges and frustrations of caregiving whilst also reflecting on the need for better support and training in dementia care. | |||