Release Date: Nov. 2, 2023

Tony and Emmy award-winning actress Christine Ebersole (Bob Hearts Abishola, Grey Gardens) joins Dana for the first episode of The Memory Whisperer! Dana and Christine discuss Christine’s experience caring for her mother after her Alzheimer’s diagnosis and share their tips for interacting with friends and loved ones battling the disease. Christine reflects on the stronger sense of patience she gained caring for her mom and shares how she learned to love two mothers: the one who raised her and the one she cared for later in life.

Release Date: Nov. 9, 2023

T.V. personality and entrepreneur Leeza Gibbons (Entertainment Tonight, Leeza) joins the podcast! Leeza opens up about her own journey as a caretaker for her mother Jean, and shares how that experience inspired her to create the Leeza Gibbons Care Connection. Dana and Leeza introduce listeners to the WOW factor in caregiving and discuss the meaningful lives you and your loved ones can have even after an Alzheimer’s diagnosis.

Release Date: Nov. 16, 2023

Gerontologist, professor, and advocate Dr. Chris Johnson joins Dana for a thoughtful conversation about his acclaimed research into Alzheimer’s disease as a “trip back in time.” Dr. Johnson shares learning to conceptualize Alzheimer’s disease can help care partners better understand and cope with erratic cognitive changes. Dana and Dr. Johnson also discuss the importance of meeting a patient at the age they feel and learning to validate their experiences as they travel back in time.

Release Date: Nov. 30, 2023

Care partner, husband, and father, Bo Bienvenu joins Dana for a moving conversation about his experiences caring for his wife Maddie. Dana and Bo discuss the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias in the U.S., and how that’s resulted in a growing number of male care partners. Bo opens up about how he cares for himself during the process, how Maddie’s journey has helped to deepen his faith, and what Alzheimer’s taught him about the difference between selflessness and service.

Release Date: Dec. 7, 2023

The prevalence, incidence, and cumulative risk of Alzheimer’s disease appears to be much higher in African-Americans. The number of African-Americans age 65 and over will more than double by 2030, from 2.7 million in 1995 to 6.9 million by 2030. Dr. Fayron Epps from Emory University joins Dana for a thoughtful conversation surrounding the African American population and the prevalence and risk of Alzheimer’s disease as well as the impact the disease has on family caregivers. Learn about the research and the many award-winning programs Dr. Epps has developed for this population and her passion for providing the support and educational resources needed for these populations. Dr. Epps emphasizes the need to “start the conversation,” and that “we can no longer be silent” with the needs of the affected African-American and underserved communities.

Release Date: Dec. 14, 2023

Dana’s thoughtful and lively conversation today with Robyn emphasizes “savoring the precious seconds of life.” Robyn not only gives insights and perspectives of her own caregiving experiences, but also discusses the appropriate balance of humor and compassion in caring for those living with dementia and their families and caregivers. Find out why Robyn replaces the term, “Caregiver” to “Promise Keeper.” Listeners will relate instantly to Robyn's refreshing sense of humor, authentic Australian style, and values around caring and compassion.

Release Date: Dec. 21, 2023

At such a young age, Olympian Mariah Bell gives her valuable insights into the experiences of caregiving and aspects of living through Alzheimer’s disease with her late grandmother. Moreover, Mariah is a formidable advocate for the disease, stating, “don’t wait to get older to stand for something.” Join Dana’s thoughtful conversation with Mariah as she shares poignant memories of her grandmother and how she still feels her grandmother’s presence in special events in her life. Plus, Mariah proudly wears her title not only as an Olympian, but also as an Alzheimer’s Association Celebrity Champion. “Everybody has a voice,” Mariah says.

Release Date: Dec. 28, 2023

How close are we to a cure for Alzheimer’s disease? What are some effective medications that might slow the progression of this disease? Amy French is also an Alzheimer’s Association Research Champion and in that respect, Dana’s thoughtful conversation with her surrounds updates in research and dementia care as well as stressing the importance of people participating in clinical trials.

Release Date: Jan. 4, 2024

Start the New Year by listening to Dana’s interview with Jay Allen, one of the top contestants on THE VOICE, Season 22. Dana’s thoughtful conversation in this episode includes Jay’s descriptions of memories of his late mom who suffered from younger onset Alzheimer’s disease and her inspiration in his music. An Alzheimer’s Association Celebrity Champion, Jay has brought more awareness about the disease through his advocacy, namely, his 2018 hit, “Blank Stares,” is a powerful tribute to his mother which went viral and reached over five million views on Facebook. Jay lends his voice and his poignant experiences with his mom to help others navigate through the disease journey. One of his top recommendations for caregivers is “You have to absolutely take one day at a time.”

Release Date: Jan. 11, 2024

How can Music assist in the “awakening and healing” of individuals with neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias? How is music effective in the care of individuals with these conditions? How can caregivers integrate music into their daily routines with their affected loved ones? Dr. Tomaino answers these questions and more. Dana’s thoughtful conversation with Dr. Tomaino explores how music is connected to emotions and that music from everyone’s lived experiences stays with them until they die.