Answering the Call: One Caregiver's Journey

From Wounds to Wisdom (Previously the Mental-Hell Podcast)

Have you ever wondered what it really means to become someone's caregiver? Beyond the practical tasks lies a profound journey that transforms not just the life of the person receiving care, but the caregiver themselves.
Vaughn Fahie, host of "Caregivers Like Us" podcast, joins us to share his experience of caring for his mother for six years after her stroke. What began as an act of love became a complete life transformation that shifted his perspective on what truly matters. Von explains how he and his co-host Coach Christy created their podcast by simply "pushing record" to share stories that would help others navigate the often overwhelming journey of caregiving.
We dive deep into the hidden realities of caregiving that are rarely discussed—from the challenges of caring for parents who might have been abusive, to the strain on marriages, finances, and personal goals. Vaughn provides powerful insights into the daily grieving process caregivers experience as they prepare for loss while providing care. Unlike raising children toward independence, caregiving involves the painful knowledge that the journey ends with death.
Perhaps most striking is Vaughn's reflection on life after caregiving ends. The "post-assignment" period brings its own struggles as caregivers must rediscover their identities while processing grief, guilt, and often a lack of acknowledgment for their sacrifice. Yet despite these challenges, Vaughn notes something remarkable: caregivers universally emerge from the experience with greater compassion and a transformed perspective on what truly matters.
Whether you're currently caring for someone, know someone who is, or may someday face this reality yourself, this conversation offers vital wisdom on answering one of life's most demanding calls. As Vaughn reminds us, through caregiving we learn that "what matters matters"—a philosophy that continues to guide him long after his mother's passing.
Subscribe and share this episode to help others understand the profound truths about caregiving and to honor those who have answered this call of love and sacrifice.

Season 2
Unraveling the Mind: From Mental Struggles to Inner Strength.

Chapters

1. Introduction and Meeting Von Foy (00:00:00)

2. The Birth of "Caregivers Like Us" Podcast (00:02:14)

3. Caring for Difficult Parents (00:03:42)

4. Life Changes and Family Dynamics (00:08:39)

5. Preparing for a Loved One's Death (00:19:34)

6. Post-Caregiving Life and Healing (00:29:00)

7. Finding Purpose and Future Plans (00:43:42)

8. The Value of Recognizing Caregivers (00:55:32)