In this episode of Gut Punched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards opens with a candid and emotional reflection on how stigma impacts not only those living with the disease but also the caregivers who support them. While Alzheimer’s itself is not contagious, the reactions it provokes, awkwardness, distance, silence, and misunderstanding, can create a profound sense of isolation.

This episode dives deep into the emotional and social consequences of stigma. From the looks and assumptions people make to the lack of understanding at critical moments, stigma can shape how individuals are treated and whether they feel safe seeking help. Drawing on both lived experience and broader conversations happening in the Alzheimer’s community, Jeff brings honesty, clarity, and urgency to the discussion, without sugarcoating the reality.

In addition, the episode explores:

• Why combating stigma is essential

• Five actionable ways to overcome it

• The physical and emotional symptoms of stress caused by stigma

• Practical tips to manage that stress

• Support resources available to caregivers and families

As always, the show reinforces its Five Tenets of caregiving, practical, real-world principles designed to help caregivers survive and sustain themselves through one of life’s most challenging roles.

This is a raw, honest, and necessary conversation about how stigma silently shapes the Alzheimer’s journey, and why it’s time to confront it head-on.

#CaregiverSupport #AlzheimersCare #DementiaCare #FamilyCaregiver #CaregiverLife #AlzheimersAwareness #CaregiverResources #DementiaSupport #CaregiverCommunity

Available on ThePodcastPlayground.com, Apple, Spotify, Pandora, PodBean, and GUTPUNCHED.COM

Episode 96 of GutPunched features a deeply moving and candid conversation
with Suzy McNamara, whose story unfolds with raw honesty, emotional
depth, and powerful vulnerability. In this episode, Suzy opens up about her
personal journey, sharing experiences that shaped her identity, tested her
resilience, and ultimately redefined her sense of self.
What makes this interview especially compelling is the level of trust and
openness Suzy brings to the conversation. She reveals moments that are
rarely spoken aloud, struggles, turning points, and emotional truths that
resonate on a human level. There are moments that are difficult, moments
that are inspiring, and moments that will stay with listeners long after the
episode ends.

This is not just an interview, it’s an intimate look into what it means to
endure, to reflect, and to grow. Episode 96 stands out as one of the most
revealing and emotionally impactful conversations on GutPunched to date.

Caregiving is many things: rewarding, exhausting, emotional, and often expensive. In Episode 95 of GutPunched, host Jeff Edwards tackles a topic many caregivers overlook but that they absolutely need to understand: tax deductions and tax credits that may help them financially.

With tax season approaching faster than most of us would like, Jeff discusses several potential tax benefits caregivers may qualify for, along with common myths and facts that often confuse families caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.

Of course, no episode of GutPunched would be complete without the humor and honesty caregivers rely on to survive the journey. Jeff reflects on Florida weather, the realities of caregiver life (like hoping for a full night of sleep and a cup of coffee that stays hot), and the importance of attending caregiver support groups, whether in person or on Zoom.

The episode also includes another segment of “What’s New in Alzheimer’s?” featuring Dr. John Huffaker, in which a listener's question is addressed, and new developments in Alzheimer’s care and research are discussed.

Jeff also reminds listeners of the Five Tenets of Caregiving, practical rules every caregiver should remember, including taking care of yourself first and building a support system to help you navigate the long journey of caring for someone with memory loss.

This episode is a must-listen for caregivers looking for practical information, financial insights, emotional validation, and a reminder that they are not alone.

Listener questions are always welcome:
gutpunchedac@outlook.com

Supported by:

• Neuropsychiatric Research Center

• Heart, Body, & Mind Home Care

• Live Younger Today

#CaregiverSupport #AlzheimersCare #DementiaCare #FamilyCaregiver #CaregiverLife #AlzheimersAwareness #CaregiverResources #DementiaSupport #CaregiverCommunity

Available on The Podcast Playground: Apple, Spotify, Pandora, PodBean

And GUTPUNCHED.COM

Caregiving for someone with Alzheimer’s rarely happens in neat, manageable steps. Challenges pile up, crises overlap, and caregivers often find themselves pushing through exhaustion, confusion, and difficult decisions, sometimes all in the same week.

In this episode of GutPunched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, the conversation turns to a question many families eventually hear from doctors, friends, or support groups:
“Have you considered a research study?”

For caregivers and families facing Alzheimer’s disease, those words can trigger a flood of emotions and questions. Is participating in a research study a path to hope? Is it pressure to try something experimental? Is it safe? And how do you know if it’s the right choice for your loved one?

In Episode 94, we take an honest gut-check on Alzheimer’s research studies, what they actually involve, what caregivers should expect, and how to evaluate whether participation is right for your situation.

Joining the discussion is Dr. John Huffaker of the Neuropsychiatric Research Center (NPRC), who shares insights into how clinical trials work, what protections exist for patients, and how families can make informed decisions when exploring research opportunities.

We also continue our regular segment “What’s New in Alzheimer’s?”, where Dr. Huffaker answers a listener's question about the latest developments in Alzheimer’s care and research.

Before diving into the conversation, the episode also highlights the reality that many caregivers know too well: sometimes life throws everything at you at once. From health setbacks to caregiving stress, perseverance becomes part of daily life.

As always, the show revisits the Five Tenets of Caregiving, guiding principles that remind caregivers to prioritize their own well-being, build a support network, and accept help when it’s offered.

Whether you’re exploring clinical trials, trying to understand Alzheimer’s research, or simply navigating the emotional rollercoaster of caregiving, this episode provides practical insight and a compassionate perspective.

If you have a question you’d like answered on the show, send it to: gutpunchedac@outlook.com

Supported by:
Neuropsychiatric Research Center (NPRC)
Heart, Body & Mind Home Care
Live Younger Today
#CaregiverLife
#AlzheimersAwareness
#GutPunchedPodcast
#AlzheimersCaregiving
#CaregiverSupport
#AlzheimersResearch
#ClinicalTrials
#DementiaCare
#FamilyCaregivers

Available On: GUTPUNCHED.COM THE PODCAST PLAYGROUND; Apple, Spotify, Pandora, Pod Bean, and many more.

In Episode 93 of GutPunched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards dives into questions that many caregivers and families quietly struggle with: “Why can’t I remember?” Is it normal aging, stress, or something more? Jeff unpacks the emotional weight behind memory lapses and how fear can sometimes speak louder than facts.

We also revisit the age-old debate: “Old Man vs. Woman,” separating cultural myths from medical realities regarding memory, cognitive decline, and caregiving roles. Are women more likely to develop Alzheimer’s? Do men experience symptoms differently? What’s biology, and what’s misunderstanding?

And in today’s world of online overload, we tackle Myth vs. Fact to help caregivers avoid being misled by misinformation, exaggerated claims, and “miracle cures.” Knowledge is power, especially when emotions are running high.

Plus, we answer another listener question in “What’s New in Alzheimer’s?” with Dr. John Huffaker, bringing clarity to current research and developments in memory care.

As always, Jeff reinforces the show’s Five Tenets of Caregiving, practical, real-world guidance for surviving (and sustaining) the caregiving journey.

If you're caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or worried about your own memory, this episode is your reminder: You are not alone, and facts matter.

In Episode 92, host Jeff Edwards brings you a powerful and heartfelt conversation that reminds us why this podcast exists.

After attending the inspiring McGregor Dementia Seminar hosted by McGregor Baptist Church, Jeff reflects on the incredible energy, resources, and support shared with caregivers. The event was filled with meaningful connections and practical information designed to help those navigating what we call “brain change.”

Jeff also shares about his recent visit to the Alzheimer’s Support Network (ASN) in Naples, Florida, a passionate organization committed to supporting caregivers and individuals living with Alzheimer’s and related dementias.

In this episode, Jeff sits down with Karen Rodino of ASN for a conversation unlike any other. This isn’t just informative, it’s emotional. Karen’s knowledge, sincerity, empathy, and passion shine through in a way you’ll feel in your gut.

Alzheimer’s Support Network remembers those who forget.

Plus, in our recurring segment “What’s New in Alzheimer’s?”, Dr. John Huffaker answers another listener-submitted question, bringing clarity and insight to the latest in Alzheimer’s care and research.

We also revisit the FIVE TENETS, the backbone of everything we believe:

1. Take care of yourself first.

2. You can’t do it alone; find support.

3. Use the help that’s offered.

4. Create a Help Signal.

5. Caregiving: Love it or hate it, it’s your life until it’s not. Give it your all.

As GutPunched enters its third year and approaches 100 episodes, we invite you to visit GutPunched.com and help us continue building a resource hub that truly serves caregivers.

We’re here to bring trusted resources, honest conversations, and real support.

#AlzheimersCare #CaregiverSupport #DementiaCare #FamilyCaregivers #BrainChange #GutPunchedPodcast #CaregiverLife #AlzheimersAwareness #SupportNetwork #PodcastCommunity

AVAILABLE ON: GUTPUNCHED.COM, The Podcast Playground, PodBean, Spotify, Pandora, Apple, i-Heart, and many more.

In Episode 91 of GutPunched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards continues his interview with Dr. John Huffaker of the Neuropsychiatric Research Center (NPRC), discussing how clinical research centers help advance Alzheimer’s treatment and provide opportunities for families.

This episode also shares caregiver adjustment strategies from the Alzheimer’s Association, focusing on coping with the emotional and practical challenges of a new dementia diagnosis.

Topics include:

• Benefits of Alzheimer’s clinical trials

• Adjusting to life after diagnosis

• Caregiver mental health

• Building a support system

• Alzheimer’s research updates

• Caregiver survival strategies

GutPunched delivers real-life Alzheimer’s caregiver advice, research insights, and practical tools for families navigating dementia care.

#AlzheimersCaregiver #AlzheimersPodcast #DementiaCareTips #ClinicalTrials #MemoryLossSupport #CaregiverResources #AlzheimersResearch #JeffEdwards #GutPunchedPodcast

Edwards welcomes listeners to Part 1 of an important conversation with Dr. John Huffaker of the Neuropsychiatric Research Center (NPRC). Together, they dive into why doing something matters, because when it comes to Alzheimer’s and dementia, doing nothing is not an option.

This episode also features another listener question in the ongoing segment “What’s New in Alzheimer’s with Dr. John Huffaker,” offering practical insight for caregivers navigating memory loss, dementia, and brain change. Jeff also highlights valuable community resources in Southwest Florida, including the McGregor Baptist Church Alzheimer’s, Dementia & The Gospel Seminar and the Alzheimer’s Support Network, a warm and trusted hub for caregivers and families.

As always, GutPunched reinforces its Five Tenets of Caregiving, reminding listeners to care for themselves, seek help, build a support system, and give caregiving everything they have, because this journey is hard, real, and deeply human.