Avoid Costly Mistakes: Mark Kashar’s Advice for Families & Caregivers

Breathe with Intention: Focus on your breath. Inhale deeply, hold for a moment, and exhale slowly. Conscious breathing helps neutralize overwhelming emotions and brings a sense of calm.
Be Your Own Comfort: Imagine what you would tell a dear friend who was feeling the same way. Now, say those kind, reassuring words to yourself. Whether it’s a phrase like, “It’s okay to let go” or “I’m safe now” , affirmations can help soothe your mind.
Anchor Yourself: Use your senses to ground yourself in the present moment. Notice what you see, hear, or feel around you. This practice helps disrupt the rumination cycle and reorients you to the here and now.

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29:55
December 5th 2025

Welcome to A Time to Care: The Caregivers Podcast! In this episode, Isabel Melgarejo sits down with financial advisor Mark Kashar to talk about the importance of insurance, long-term care planning, and how to protect your loved ones with smart financial decisions. Learn why early planning matters, what insurance companies look for, and how to avoid common — and costly — mistakes caregivers face. Perfect for anyone wanting clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.

A Time to Care: The Caregivers Podcast

I’m Isabel Melgarejo, and I was raised never to talk about the uncomfortable things in life and to put myself after everyone else’s needs (just like any other woman I know). In college, after Dad’s passing, I had to change all my beliefs. I had to talk about death, about my mom’s future, and I had to ask for a LOT of favors.

After connecting with many caregivers when I moved to Texas and remembering one of the toughest seasons in my life, I created a program to help caregivers navigate these very uncomfortable conversations and help them through their particular journeys with their loved ones. In this podcast, I want to share advice on how to prioritize your mental health, how to have those difficult conversations, and how to talk you out of feeling guilty and overwhelmed.