Caregiving, Connection, and Coping – Inside the Juicebox Podcast's Caregiver Burnout Series

Caring for someone with type 1 diabetes is an incredible act of love, but it’s also a journey marked by stress, isolation, and emotional weight. The Juicebox Podcast, hosted by Scott Benner, dives deep into these challenges in a compelling new series on caregiver burnout. In partnership with Erika Forsyth, a licensed therapist and long-time advocate for the type 1 diabetes (T1D) community, this series offers an honest exploration of the emotional toll caregiving takes—and practical tools for navigating it.

The first episode sets the stage with stories of connection, vulnerability, and validation. Erika recalls speaking at a T1D conference and witnessing the powerful bond between caregivers who finally felt seen and understood. These moments inspired the series, which aims to create a similar safe space for listeners through the podcast.

A major focus is the concept of "chronic sorrow", a grief unique to caregiving for a chronic illness. Erika explains how this sorrow ebbs and flows, often resurfacing during life’s milestones or challenges, like a child’s first birthday party after diagnosis or navigating TSA with diabetes supplies. These moments can isolate caregivers and leave them stuck in cycles of frustration and sadness.

Scott and Erika tackle heavy topics with warmth and relatability, balancing hard truths with hopeful insights. The episode doesn’t shy away from asking tough questions: How do we grieve without a timeline? How can caregivers avoid burnout while supporting their loved ones? And what tools can turn moments of despair into opportunities for growth?

Through shared stories and research-backed strategies, this series empowers caregivers to redefine self-care. Erika introduces tools like the "Dear Diabetes Letter," a reflective exercise to release pent-up emotions, and emphasizes the importance of finding community—whether through local groups or the Juicebox Podcast’s thriving online network. These spaces remind caregivers they’re not alone, offering emotional validation and practical guidance.

This episode is more than a podcast—it’s a lifeline for anyone caring for someone with T1D. Whether you’re new to caregiving or a seasoned pro, Scott and Erika’s thoughtful discussion provides clarity, comfort, and actionable advice. Tune in to hear stories that will resonate deeply and tools that will help lighten the load. Caregiving isn’t easy, but with the right support, it doesn’t have to be lonely.