In this episode, we sit down with Karen Kavanaugh to unpack the real challenges facing working caregivers—and why so many of them still feel invisible. From systemic breakdowns to cultural blind spots, we explore what’s really happening behind the scenes for employees balancing work and caregiving, and why employers can’t afford to ignore it any longer.

We also dive into what’s actually working. Karen shares powerful insights from her work with employers across the country, including innovative approaches to supporting caregivers in the workplace. Along the way, we reflect on our own caregiving journeys, what gives us hope, and the critical role community and leadership play in driving meaningful change.

Episode Highlights

[1:36] - Welcoming Karen and kicking things off with a lighthearted intro (and Zack’s birthday!)

[4:44] - Karen shares her personal caregiving experiences and the impact of employer support

[6:58] - How Karen’s career led her into caregiver advocacy and research

[11:07] - The role of the Rosalynn Carter Institute and why employer engagement matters

[16:39] - Inside the “Innovation Lab” and what employers are learning about caregiving

[21:47] - Surprising insights and challenges employers face today

[25:05] - Misconceptions on both sides: employers vs. caregivers

[28:03] - Practical advice for managers to better support caregiver employees

[31:38] - Where Karen finds hope in today’s caregiving landscape

[35:37] - Simple, actionable steps employers can take right now

[39:04] - What gives us hope as caregivers and advocates

Links & Resources

Diego Rivera, Detroit Industry Murals
https://smarthistory.org/rivera-detroit-industry-murals/

Episode 30: The Future of Caregiving at Work with Lindsay Jurist-Rosner (Wellthy)

National Alliance for Caregiving https://www.caregiving.org/

Family Caregiver Alliance https://www.caregiver.org/

Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers https://rosalynncarter.org/

REACT Report (AARP)
https://caregivers.org.il/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/AARP-ReAct-MASTER-web.pdf

Stand By Me: A Guide to Navigating Modern, Meaningful Caregiving https://www.amazon.com/Stand-Me-Navigating-Meaningful-Caregiving/dp/1668005808

Susie Singer Carter: @susiesingercarter

Jason Resendez: Linkedin

Karen Kavanaugh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-kavanaugh/

karen.kavanaugh@tuftsmedicine.org

Episode 23: Grief, Caregiving, and the Power of Connection with Leslie Weirich

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