
This episode covers the challenges faced by caregivers in the workplace, featuring guests Jennifer Andrews from Guardian Life and Dr. Ellen Ernst KK from Purdue University. They discuss the findings of Guardian's report on caregivers, the impact of caregiving on employees, and the need for supportive workplace policies.
Jennifer Andrews shares insights from Guardian's report, highlighting that 70% of workers have caregiving responsibilities, the stigma associated with being labeled a caregiver, and the negative effects on mental and physical health for caregivers. She emphasizes the importance of employers recognizing and supporting this demographic.
Dr. Ellen Ernst KK discusses her research on family policies for caregivers in STEM fields, noting that the pandemic made caregiving responsibilities more visible. She outlines key takeaways from her reports, including the need for equitable workplace policies and the importance of supporting caregivers as a strategic investment.
The conversation also touches on the need for organizations to adapt to the growing number of caregivers and the necessity of integrating work-life support into company culture. Both guests agree that understanding and supporting caregivers is crucial for employee retention and organizational success.
Overall, the episode highlights the urgency for employers to implement effective policies that address the complexities of caregiving in today’s workforce.
Caregivers face significant workplace challenges; employers must adapt policies to support them effectively.

Seven out of ten workers have some level of caregiving responsibilities.How to Improve Work-life Balance for Caregiving Employees
The pandemic made visible the need to respect work-life boundaries.How to Improve Work-life Balance for Caregiving Employees
Work and life are not separate; they are increasingly related.How to Improve Work-life Balance for Caregiving Employees
This is why people join, stay, or unfortunately leave an organization.How to Improve Work-life Balance for Caregiving Employees
They literally saved my family and me hundreds of hours of research and stress.How to Improve Work-life Balance for Caregiving Employees
If organizations aren’t doing this, people are going to leave.How to Improve Work-life Balance for Caregiving Employees