Episode #43: Caregiving, Communication, and Courage

Episode #43: Caregiving, Communication, and Courage

This heartfelt episode features Ellen Patnaude, a Detroit native, workplace communication coach, caregiver advocate, and author. Ellen shares her emotional and inspiring journey of caring for her mother, Charlotte, through her battle with Lewy Body Dementia. With honesty and compassion, Ellen discusses the challenges of caregiving for aging parents, the emotional toll it takes, and the lessons she learned along the way. She introduces practical tips and strategies for caregivers navigating similar paths, while also advocating for open and honest discussions around caregiving—at home and in the workplace.

About Our Guest:
Ellen Patnaude is not only a storyteller but also a leader in communication strategies. After noticing the early signs of dementia in her mom in 2016, Ellen embarked on a caregiving journey filled with unpredictability. Her mother’s rapid decline and passing in 2020 fueled Ellen’s passion to share her experience and support others. She has since become a certified Community Educator with the Alzheimer’s Association, helping caregivers and families feel less alone in their journeys.

Professionally, Ellen is a Workplace Communication Coach, working with teams and leaders to improve interactions and foster connection. She is the author of two impactful books, "I Thought You Knew…": Confessions of a Chronic Assumer (2022) and the forthcoming "You’re Not Doing It Right": Loving My Mother Through an Unpredictable Caregiving Journey (May 2024).

What We Discussed in This Episode:
Ellen’s caregiving story, from recognizing her mother’s early symptoms to navigating the complexities of Lewy Body Dementia.
The emotional and mental toll of being a caregiver and the struggle to find resources and support.
How her experiences inspired her to write "You’re Not Doing It Right", her raw and honest memoir designed to guide and encourage other caregivers.
Practical tips for caregivers, including how to talk about caregiving challenges openly and ask for the help you need.
The importance of fostering flexibility and understanding for caregivers in workplaces and families.
Ellen’s role as a certified Community Educator with the Alzheimer’s Association and her advocacy for breaking the stigma around dementia and aging-care conversations.
Her professional insights as a workplace communication coach, focused on improving dialogue and relationships within teams.

Resources and Links Mentioned:
Connect with Ellen and learn more about her coaching services at Patnaude Coaching. https://patnaudecoaching.com/
Pre-order Ellen’s new book "You’re Not Doing It Right": Loving My Mother Through an Unpredictable Caregiving Journey here. https://patnaudecoaching.com/patnaude-coaching-books/not-doing-it-right/
Check out her first book, "I Thought You Knew…": Confessions of a Chronic Assumer here. https://patnaudecoaching.com/
Learn about the Alzheimer’s Association and its resources for caregivers here. https://www.alz.org/

Takeaways for Caregivers and Leaders:
Having open and honest conversations about caregiving can alleviate stress and pave the way for meaningful support.
Practical tips, such as managing family expectations, building a supportive network, and prioritizing self-care, can make caregiving more manageable.
Employers play a critical role in supporting employees with caregiving responsibilities through flexibility and understanding.

Don’t Miss This Conversation!
Whether you’re a caregiver, navigating similar challenges, or a leader looking to better support your team, this episode is packed with powerful insights, heartfelt stories, and practical advice to inspire courage and connection in the face of life’s unpredictability.

Be sure to subscribe and leave us a review if Ellen’s story resonated with you!

Connect With The Hosts:
Email: caregiverslikeuspodcast@gmail.com
Website: https://caregiverslike.us/

Become A Guest: https://caregiverslike.us/share-your-journey/ 
Don’t miss this empowering episode—because together, caregivers like us can thrive.