Caregiver Burnout: Lessons and Insights from Kate Washington

Working Caregivers: The Invisible Employees

In this episode, the brilliant author Kate Washington, who takes us through her incredible journey of caregiving and the profound insights she gained from it, joins us. Kate shares the inspiration behind her book, Already Toast, a raw and honest account of her experience as a caregiver for her husband during his battle with cancer. We highlight the challenges caregivers face, how caregiving is often undervalued in society, and how her writing serves as a voice for caregivers everywhere.

Selma, Zack, and Kate discuss the emotional toll caregiving takes, why setting boundaries is essential, and how caregivers can seek the support they need. Kate also opens up about her next project, focusing on self-rediscovery through swimming holes and finding joy in midlife. This episode offers not just empathy for anyone on the caregiving path, but also a call for systemic change to better support caregivers.

Episode Highlights:
[2:13] - Kate shares her favorite summer activity: exploring hidden swimming holes in California.
[3:54] - How Already Toast came to be: Kate discusses the life-changing events that led her to write the book.
[8:55] - Zack and Kate reflect on the struggles caregivers face and the importance of recognizing their needs.
[12:43] - Kate’s message to caregivers: It’s okay to feel overwhelmed, and your emotions are valid.
[17:09] - A discussion on how literature, specifically Jane Eyre, inspired parts of Kate’s writing.
[20:45] - Kate emphasizes the importance of balancing data with the human stories behind caregiving statistics.
[24:01] - Looking back: Kate shares what she would have done differently on her caregiving journey.

Links & Resources:

Kate Washington’s website: kawashington.com

Already Toast: Caregiving and Burnout in America by Kate Washington – Available wherever books are sold.

Instagram: @washingtonkate

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