Discovering Strength Through Caregiving with Lisa McCarty

Host Candace Dellacona welcomes acclaimed writer Lisa McCarty for a powerful conversation on caregiving, resilience, and the courage to tell deeply personal stories. McCarty reflects on her essays that resonated with thousands—from losing her father just as she welcomed her second child to stepping into the role of caregiver for her mother at just 13—and how those experiences shaped her voice and perspective. Now developing a reported nonfiction book, she shares hard-earned insights on identity, boundaries, and advocacy, offering thoughtful guidance for young caregivers navigating similar paths.

00:00 Discovering Strength Through Caregiving with Lisa McCarty

00:07 Welcome and Guest Intro

01:31 Why Write Personal Stories

02:08 Sharing the Caregiving Essay

05:26 Story Timing

08:53 How Young Caregiving Shaped Lisa

13:17 Realizing She Was a Caregiver

16:41 Systemic Failures and Isolation

24:03 Advice for Young Caregivers

27:09 Writing the Book and Self Care

32:10 Privacy and Telling the Truth