The Heartland Caregiving Conference
November 1, 2025
St. Joseph Medical Center – Alex George Auditorium (Building D)
On November 1, 2025, Sandwiched KC and family caregivers from all over the Kansas City metro, along with a number of community partners, joined together to kick off National Family Caregivers Month in Kansas City! It was nothing short of remarkable!
Together, we made beautiful music by creating the Sandwiched Caregiving Anthem in partnership with Danielle Ate the Sandwich.
Community organizations and resources came to share information about how they support family caregivers and the family members they care for.
Most importantly, family caregivers showed up for themselves to learn, connect, and share. It was truly an amazing day!
View the conference sessions and download slides, speaker bios, and event details below.
A Day in the Life of a Caregiver (Sandwiched KC Anthem)
A Day in the Life of a Caregiver Lyrics
Written by Danielle Ate the Sandwich and the incredible caregivers at the 2025 Heartland Caregiving Conference
Compassion, Purpose
Hard to win but it’s worth it
Moving mountains
Mayonnaise
Exhausted, Sandwiched
Stuck in the middle
Trying to balance
This brain fog
We laugh, we cry, we scream, we sigh
We wash, we feed, we help, we dream
We love, we try, wake up in the middle of the night
A day in the life of a caregiver
A day in the life of a caregiver
It’s beautiful chaos
You never imagined
A labor of love
Still a dumpster fire
It’s messy, and busy
With bodily fluid
Oh gross, I just spilled the
colostomy bag
We laugh, we cry, we scream, we sigh
We wash, we feed, we help, we dream
We love, we try, wake up in the middle of the night
A day in the life of a caregiver
A day in the life of a caregiver
You better get ready
For my fierce advocacy
I’m running on fumes
Overwhelmed and overjoyed
I’m peaceful and screaming
Can anyone hear me
I’ve heard the same story
For the thousandth time
Does he even know my name?
I’m just trying to live by faith
The tears, they come and go
As I overcome a fear of the unknown
We laugh, we cry, we scream, we sigh
We wash, we feed, we help, we dream
We love, we try, wake up in the middle of the night
A day in the life of a caregiver
A day in the life of a caregiver
We laugh, we cry, we scream, we sigh
We wash, we feed, we help, we dream
We love, we try, wake up in the middle of the night
A day in the life of a caregiver
A day in the life of a caregiver
Gallery
AGENDA
LEARNING SESSIONS
PRESENTER BIOS
RESOURCE SHOPPING
PARKING, ETC
Saturday
11/01
9:30-10:00am
Registration
Networking
ALEX GEORGE AUDITORIUM
10:00-10:45am
Welcome & Conference Kickoff
Sandwiched Caregiving Anthem Songwriting Session
We’ll meet our special guest who will help us write a Sandwiched Caregiving Anthem. We’ll use your suggestions, experiences, stories and lessons learned to write a song and sing it together at the end of our 2025 conference. We’ll have you leaving the day with something sweet stuck in your head!
VIP Performance by Danielle Ate the Sandwich
ALEX GEORGE AUDITORIUM
11:00-11:30am
Learning Sessions (Breakouts)
11:30am-12:00pm
Resource Shopping (Exhibitors)
12:00-12:45pm
Lunch
Catered by Ruby Jean's Juicery
ALEX GEORGE AUDITORIUM
1:00-1:30pm
Learning Sessions (Breakouts)
1:30-2:00pm
Resource Shopping & Networking (last chance!)
Rehydrate with
Juice Tasting from Ruby Jean's Juicery
ALEX GEORGE AUDITORIUM
2:00-2:30pm
Learning Sessions (Breakouts)
2:45-3:30pm
Sandwiched Caregiving Anthem Collective Performance with
Danielle Ate the Sandwich
Singer/songwriter, recording artist, and comedic performer based in Kansas City, MO
ALEX GEORGE AUDITORIUM
3:30-4:00pm
Door Prizes!!!
Adjourn
ALEX GEORGE AUDITORIUM
*Just like life, time and activities subject to change
AGENDA
LEARNING SESSIONS
PRESENTER BIOS
RESOURCE SHOPPING
PARKING, ETC
LEARNING SESSIONS
11:00 - 11:30am
Brain Smart Self-Care for Your Mind and Body
Alzheimer’s Association – Heart of America Chapter
[ ALEX GEORGE AUDITORIUM]
Ready to feel empowered about your brain health? Join us for an inspiring session that puts you in control of your cognitive well-being. With two-thirds of Americans facing at least one major risk factor for dementia, now is the time to take action. Discover the latest research from the Alzheimer’s Association showing how everyday habits can help reduce your risk of cognitive decline. Learn how these findings are transforming the way we think about brain health and how you can start making positive changes today. It’s never too early or too late to prioritize your brain. Let’s explore practical, evidence-based strategies for your healthier future!
“And awaaaay we go!”: Field Trips for Fun and Respite
Renae Price, Local Family Caregiver
[ABELL/LORENZ]
Whether you are an occasional visitor or a full-time caregiver, entertaining a parent who has Alzheimer’s Disease can be challenging. Renae Price is the adult daughter of Kipp, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease in 2018. As her father’s disease has progressed, Renae has dug into her experience as a homeschooling parent to figure out some fun ways to spend time together. Come learn about the field trips, volunteer opportunities, and entertaining outings they have attended together since his diagnosis. Bring your own ideas to help create a collaborative public spreadsheet to refer to after the conference!
Navigating the Maze of Disability Services
Georgia Mueller, MS, WIP-C Benefits Specialist and Owner @ Visioneers KC
[KELLEHER/MCDONNELL]
Join Georgia Mueller, local expert and mom to Caleb, who will give you a short introduction on Developmental Disability services and disability benefits and lead a roundtable discussion on the current services of DD services.
Self-Love Chair Yoga for Caregivers
Nancy Baum, Certified Yoga Instructor – CBD American Shaman
[CSJ]
Take some time for self care and relaxation with this low impact and heart opening chair yoga class being offered by CBD American Shaman.
1:00 - 1:30pm
Home for Life: Helping Loved Ones Age in Place Safely and Comfortably
Dr. Jennifer Gazda, Midwest Regional Director @ Arosa
[ALEX GEORGE AUDITORIUM]
As our loved ones grow older, many express the desire to remain in their own homes. Aging in place can offer comfort, familiarity, and independence, but also can present unique challenges. In this session, we will explore practical strategies to allow individuals to safely remain in their homes, including but not limited to home safety modifications, daily living support, health care coordination, and emotional well-being. This presentation will provide valuable resources, tools, and tips to help you navigate this journey.
The Most Powerful Cognitive Decline Care Skill You’re Probably Overlooking
Dr. Laura Janusik, CEO, Owner @ Listening to Change
[ABELL/LORENZ]
Do you feel frustrated when the person you support don’t make sense?
Are you sad that you can’t connect the way you used to?
Are you stressed trying to figure out what to say to get them to understand?
All caregivers need help with communication especially when they begin supporting someone with cognitive decline. Come learn the most powerful cognitive decline care skill that you’re probably overlooking that will increase the probability of having a conversation and connecting!
Sacred Goodbyes: Understanding the Dying Process and Supporting Yourself Through Grief
Rhonda Osborn, End-of-Life Doula @ This One Life
[KELLEHER/MCDONNELL]
This breakout session offers caregivers of those with life-limiting illnesses a compassionate look at what really happens as a loved one nears the end of life. Whether you are walking alongside a parent, spouse, or friend, this talk will help you understand the physical, emotional, and spiritual signs of dying—so you can be present without fear. We’ll also explore anticipatory grief, the labor of dying, and how to support your own heart throughout the process. You’ll leave with practical tools, gentle language to use, and reassurance that you are not alone.
Self-Love Chair Yoga for Caregivers
Nancy Baum, Certified Yoga Instructor – CBD American Shaman
[CSJ]
Take some time for self care and relaxation with this low impact and heart opening chair yoga class being offered by CBD American Shaman.
2:00 - 2:30pm
From Confusion to Confidence: Mastering Healthcare as a Caregiver
Dr. Lyndi Plattner, Founder/Occupational Therapist @ qualOT of life
[ALEX GEORGE AUDITORIUM]
Navigating the healthcare system for a loved one can be overwhelming, but caregivers play a critical role in ensuring quality care. This session will empower caregivers with essential skills to confidently advocate for their loved ones, understand patient rights, and effectively communicate with healthcare providers. Attendees will learn practical strategies to overcome common healthcare barriers, manage medical records, and coordinate care with confidence. By the end of this session, caregivers will walk away with actionable tools to enhance their loved one’s well-being while also taking care of themselves.
The Permission Slip: Embracing Self-Preservation to Avoid Burnout
Brittani Rhodes, Lifestyles Director @ Meadowbrook Senior Living
[ABELL/LORENZ]
Caregiving is a journey of immense love, but it often comes with significant demands. This interactive session is designed to equip family caregivers with practical strategies to manage stress, prioritize their own well-being, and effectively advocate for both themselves and their loved ones. Drawing on principles of hospitality that can be incorporated into the unique dynamics of family care, we’ll explore actionable ways to find “balance” (whatever that means) and prevent burnout.
Push the Pause Button: Supports for Caregivers
Amanda Trout, Program Director @ Gilda’s Club of Kansas City
[KELLEHER/MCDONNELL]
Caregiving can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to carry it all alone. In this session, we’ll explore common concerns caregivers face, including mental health, shifting family roles, balancing work and caregiving, and even navigating a loved one’s cancer journey. We’ll also highlight the unexpected gifts of caregiving and share practical supports to help you protect your emotional well-being.
Self-Love Chair Yoga for Caregivers
Nancy Baum, Certified Yoga Instructor – CBD American Shaman
[CSJ]
Take some time for self care and relaxation with this low impact and heart opening chair yoga class being offered by CBD American Shaman.
AGENDA
LEARNING SESSIONS
PRESENTER BIOS
RESOURCE SHOPPING
PARKING, ETC
PRESENTER BIOS
Nancy Baum
Nancy is a 200 RYT Yoga Instructor. She received her Chair Yoga certification from Kripalu Center For Yoga & Health in Stockbridge, MA. She is also a certified Cardio Drumming instructor through Fit Group USA.
Jennifer Gazda
Jennifer Gazda, LCSW, CMC, CDP, holds a Doctorate in Social Work from Aurora University and has spent the majority of her professional career serving the geriatric population and their families. With extensive experience in social work, care management, and elder care, she has developed a deep commitment to improving the lives of older adults through comprehensive support and advocacy. Jennifer currently serves as the Regional Director for the Midwest region at Arosa, a leading provider of private care management and home care services across the United States. In this role, she is responsible for overseeing the delivery of high-quality care and ensuring that Arosa’s services are tailored to meet the unique needs of clients and their families. With her expertise and leadership, Jennifer continues to drive positive outcomes for older adults and their caregivers, advocating for holistic, person-centered approaches to care.
Laura Janusik
Dr. Laura Janusik is a communication coach, consultant, speaker, and researcher specializing in listening. After five years as a caregiver for her mother, she now helps caregivers build more meaningful relationships with loved ones with cognitive decline. With an MBA and PhD in Communication, she equips individuals and teams with practical, research-based strategies to improve communication.
Georgia Mueller
Georgia Mueller, MS, WIP-C Benefits Specialist, is the parent of an adult young man with a developmental disability. She has had the honor to serve peer parents and other colleagues for over 20 years. Her roles have focused on helping people solve logistical and financial problems to change long-term outcomes for their families. You can learn how to think this way, regardless of what you already know about service systems. We will do an overview of the Systems Scaffolding Template, then we will have a round table discussion complete with case studies to illustrate how to solve DD/IDD problems. Bring your questions and your cases!
Rhonda Osborn
Rhonda Osborn, MSTD, is a certified end-of-life doula, spiritual director, and grief coach who brings nearly 30 years of experience in oncology, adult learning, and compassionate care to her work with individuals and families navigating life’s toughest moments. After nearly two decades in leadership and training in the radiation oncology field, Rhonda followed a deep calling to support others at the end of life.
Through her business, This One Life, LLC, Rhonda offers spiritual direction, grief support, and end-of-life guidance. She is known for creating safe, sacred spaces where people can speak honestly about death and dying. She helps people find for themselves what it means to live authentically and intentionally.
In her spare time, you will find Rhonda taking care of her sweet mama, playing with her 2 dogs, Jack and George, or exploring a hiking trail or bike path with her husband, Heath.
Lyndi Plattner
Lyndi Plattner, OTD, OTR/L is a doctor of occupational therapy dedicated to supporting caregivers, aging adults, and individuals with chronic conditions in navigating complex healthcare challenges. With a background in acute rehabilitation and senior living care, she witnessed firsthand the gaps in support once individuals returned home. This led her to found qualOT of life, where she empowers caregivers with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to confidently advocate for their loved ones. Through personalized guidance, she helps families and individuals manage medical decisions, coordinate care, and maintain autonomy and quality of life.
Renae Price
Renae Price is the adult daughter of Kipp, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease in 2018. As her father’s disease has progressed, Renae has dug into her experience as a homeschooling parent to figure out some fun ways for the two of them to spend time together and provide respite for his full-time caregivers. She and her father like to venture out to explore and have fun around Kansas City.
Brittani Rhoades
With nearly 20 years of experience in the culinary and hospitality industry plus non-profit management, Brittani Rhoades (she/they) is deeply passionate about creating and delivering memorable experiences for families. She has a B.S. in Culinary and Hospitality Management from the International Culinary School at The Art Institute of California, then ran a successful personal chef business for over a decade.
Currently, as Lifestyle Director, Brittani oversees the operations and quality of lifestyle programs and services across independent living, assisted living, and memory care, ensuring purposeful engagement for residents, their families, and caregivers at Meadowbrook Senior Living. In addition to their operational role, they manage the Dial 4 Seniors Foundation, which provides support to underserved seniors connected to Dial Senior Living.
While curating a personal and professional network of supportive and passionate associates, who share values of honesty, generosity, and efficiency, Brittani is dedicated to fostering a nurturing and enriching environment for all ages and abilities. In her personal life, she attempts many hobbies, has 2 daughters in elementary school, a spouse researching and writing a dissertation about early childhood education, and a chronic health condition.
Amanda Trout
Amanda Trout, LCSW, LSCSW, OSW-C, Program Director, has over 20 years’ experience as a licensed social worker in various settings throughout the Kansas City community. She is a Board Certified Oncology Social Worker with 15 years’ experience providing clinical social work services to pediatric, adolescent, young adult, and adult patients living with cancer and their families. She has a passion for psychosocial program development, adjustment to illness counseling, working with and collaborating with community stakeholders to provide psychosocial support, programming, and advocacy for those impacted by cancer. She also is deeply invested in health and mental health equity, and has volunteered her time as a parent advocate within Kansas City Public Schools. She lives in the Waldo neighborhood with her husband Micah, 11 y/o son Milo, and cat Bella.
AGENDA
LEARNING SESSIONS
PRESENTER BIOS
RESOURCE SHOPPING
PARKING, ETC
Parking
AND OTHER 4-1-1
All guests can park in the visitor parking outside of Building D. If there isn’t space available there, you can park anywhere there is “Visitor Parking” available.
Sandwiched Squad volunteers will be outside to help direct traffic before the event begins.
2025 Resource Shopping Exhibitors
AGENDA
LEARNING SESSIONS
PRESENTER BIOS
RESOURCE SHOPPING
PARKING, ETC
The 2025 Heartland Caregiving Conference
was made possible by
Submarine Sponsors
Grilled Cheese Sponsors
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