The Sandwich Generation Survival Guide Podcast
The Sandwich Generation Survival Guide Podcast
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Welcome to The Sandwich Generation Survival Guide, where we explore the challenges and strategies of navigating life caught between work demands and supporting our loved ones while maintaining our own well-being.
Join us in this dynamic podcast series as we uncover the complexities individuals face balancing multiple roles in the modern world. Our host, Candace Dellacona, shares personal experiences and professional insights to guide listeners through this complex journey.
As seen on CBS!
September 15, 2025
In this episode of 'The Sandwich Generation Survival Guide,' host Candace Dellacona welcomes Ben Kruger, a thought leader in modern healthcare. Ben shares his journey from a career in Hollywood to co-founding Sollis Health, a company providing concierge urgent and emergent care, and his latest venture, Appian, which aims to holistically support aging adults and their families.
Ben discusses the inspiration behind his ventures, the complexities of the US healthcare system, and the importance of proactive planning in aging well. The conversation emphasizes the significance of early engagement, active listening, and creating a supportive infrastructure for aging loved ones, touching on the emotional and logistical challenges faced by the sandwich generation.
September 2, 2025
By Candace Dellacona and Jack Wang
In this episode of The Sandwich Generation Survival Guide, host Candace Dellacona welcomes Jack Wang, a wealth advisor at Innovative Advisory Group and host of 'The Smart College Buyer' podcast. They discuss Jack's journey from commercial banking to wealth advising with a focus on college financial aid planning. Jack provides in-depth strategies on how families can maximize financial aid, the importance of early planning, and the nuances of different aid sources. They also explore the role of grandparents and other family members in contributing to college costs, and the implications of different types of contributions. Jack offers practical advice for parents to ensure they are financially prepared for their child's college education without compromising their own financial stability. Tune in to gain valuable insights and tips for securing financial aid and making informed decisions about paying for college.
To subscribe to the Smart College Buyer, visit https://smartcollegebuyer.podbean.com/
Follow Jack on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejackwang/
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August 15, 2025
By Candace Dellacona and Dr. Jonathan Knaul
In this episode of The Sandwich Generation Survival Guide, host Candace Dellacona welcomes Dr. Jonathan Knaul, a distinguished Royal Canadian Air Force pilot and commander, NATO mission leader, instructor at the National Test Pilot School, and author of Final Approach, a Test Pilot’s Story of Caring for Loved Ones.
Jonathan shares his impressive background, from leading high-stakes military missions to training elite military pilots, through his journey as a caregiver for his parents and the heartfelt motivation behind writing his book. He discusses the skills he learned as a decorated military pilot and commander in the RCAF, how he used those skills when dealing with the complexities of caregiving, and the emotional and practical challenges of advocating for loved ones with dementia. Jonathan provides valuable advice on how to maintain the dignity of your aging loved ones and how to manage caregiver burnout. Jonathan and Candace also discuss the importance of community and self-care all while navigating this demanding role.
To purchase Jonathan’s book and subscribe to his newsletter, visit https://finalapproachbook.com/
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July 15, 2025
In this episode of the Sandwich Generation Survival Guide, host Candace Dellacona speaks with Nicole àBeckett and Dr. Shruti Roy, co-founders of the innovative technology platform Hero Generation. Nicole and Shruti share their personal caregiving experiences that inspired them to create Hero Generation, a comprehensive web-based tool designed to support family caregivers. This first of its kind technology provides Sandwich Generation members medical and legal resources, tools to organize and manage caregiving responsibilities, and a community to help caregivers manage the emotional and logistical challenges they face. The discussion highlights the important role that technology can play in caregiving and how technology can support, organize, and manage these responsibilities. Candace commends the founders for their mission-driven approach and the value Hero Generation brings to caregivers.
For more information about Hero Generation:
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June 16, 2025
By Candace Dellacona and Dr. Gerda Maissel
Join host Candace Dellacona in this insightful episode of The Sandwich Generation Survival Guide, featuring Dr. Gerda Maissel, founder of My MD Advisor. Candace and Dr. Maissel discuss “solo agers” and the unique challenges they face. Learn about critical strategies for single people as they age, including building community, ensuring proper medical care, and legal planning to navigate aging independently or with limited family support. This episode provides valuable insights for both solo agers and their loved ones!
For more information about My MD Advisor, visit:
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May 15, 2025
In this episode of the Sandwich Generation Survival Guide, host Candace Dellacona is joined by Neal Shah and Sydney Rosbury from CareYaya, an innovative platform transforming the elder care industry.
Neal shares his journey from Wall Street to full-time caregiver to founder of CareYaya. The CareYaya on-line platform connects university students with seniors in need of companion-level care, offering a cost-effective and reliable alternative to traditional home care. Sydney, a pre-med senior at the University of Michigan, discusses the intergenerational experiences and the invaluable skills she gained as a caregiver with CareYaya. Additionally, Neal introduces Counterforce Health, a new project utilizing AI to assist families in appealing denied health insurance claims, aiming to alleviate caregiver stress. The episode highlights the importance of personalized, affordable care and the growing need for innovative solutions in the aging population.
For more information about CareYaya and Counterforce Health, visit:
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April 15, 2025
In this episode of The Sandwich Generation Survival Guide, host Candace Dellacona interviews Beth Weeks, a registered nurse and co-founder of Senior Living Consultants of New York.
Beth discusses the complexities of senior housing, including options such as aging in place, independent living, and assisted living facilities. She shares her personal journey that led her to specialize in senior care, as well as the mission of her consultancy to bring clarity, transparency, and advocacy to families navigating these decisions. The conversation covers the importance of safety, financial planning, and the evolving landscape of senior housing that is becoming more inclusive of diverse communities and specialized needs.
For more information on Senior Living Consultants of New York, visit:
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March 28, 2025
In this episode of The Sandwich Generation Survival Guide, host Candace Dellacona is joined by financial planner and author Sherry Finkel Murphy. They discuss the unique challenges of the 'Triple Decker Sandwich Generation,' a term coined to describe the multitasking demands of caring for aging parents, children, and grandchildren simultaneously. Sherry shares her experiences and strategies for managing these responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of stopping self-reproach, advocating for oneself and planning wisely.
Highlights include the significance of 'radical flexibility,' the concept of a 'Forget You Fund' for financial independence, and ways to find joy and self-care amidst multigenerational obligations. Sherry also delves into the historical context of increasing life expectancy and its impact on family dynamics, offering practical advice for living a fulfilling life even when caught between generations.
For more information, visit:
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March 14, 2025
In this episode of The Sandwich Generation Survival Guide, host Candace Dellacona welcomes entrepreneurial power couple Kass and Mike Lazerow. They discuss their book Shoveling $h!t: A Love Story, which details how to successfully build your business, and shares the harsh realities and joys of entrepreneurship.
During the episode, Kass and Mike delve into their origin story, the importance of picking the right partner in business as in life, and how they support the entrepreneurial community through investments and mentorship. They reveal their four-part approach—vision, communication, mindset, and workload—and the creation of their Go-Gauge™ to help evaluate business ideas. Kass and Mike also discuss work-life balance, offering personal anecdotes about juggling family life with running a business, the significance of modeling good behavior for their children, and the importance of consistency in both personal and professional spheres. The episode wraps up with a note on their continued commitment to giving back through initiatives like Cycle for Survival.
To preorder Shoveling $h!t: A Love Story, visit:
For more information on Kass and Mike, visit:
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February 14, 2025
In this episode of The Sandwich Generation Survival Guide, host Candace Dellacona welcomes Katie Schumacher, founder of Don't Press Send, to discuss the challenges and responsibilities faced by the sandwich generation when managing children's internet usage, the emotional disconnect fostered by screens, and the importance of teaching empathy.
Katie shares her journey of creating Don't Press Send, offers tips for parents and teachers on promoting digital wellness, and underscores the crucial role of mindful social media usage. She also dives into practical strategies for dealing with cyberbullying and the negative impact of social media on children's mental health. The episode concludes with actionable advice on how to create a supportive environment for kids navigating the digital landscape.
For more information, visit:
To purchase Katie’s books, visit:
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January 15, 2025
In this episode of The Sandwich Generation Survival Guide, host Candace Dellacona welcomes Karen Covy, a distinguished divorce coach and attorney dedicated to helping her clients navigate the divorce process.
Karen shares her journey from a traditional matrimonial lawyer to a divorce coach, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's options when preparing for divorce. She discusses the role of a divorce coach, the stages of divorce decision-making, and the cost-effectiveness of hiring a coach.
The conversation covers the collaborative approach involving lawyers and coaches, mediation versus litigation, and the preparation required for an amicable divorce. Karen highlights how a divorce coach can make the divorce process less painful and more efficient, ultimately leading to better outcomes for clients.
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December 16, 2024
In this episode of The Sandwich Generation Survival Guide, host Candace Dellacona is joined by award-winning author Phil Callaway. Phil shares his inspiring journey into surviving the Sandwich Generation by finding the humor and discovering the vital role that laughter plays in navigating life's family challenges as a caregiver.
Throughout the conversation, Phil underscores the profound impact of how maintaining humor during tough times can have on a positive effect on the whole family.
Learn more about Phil Callaway, and purchase your copy of “Family Squeeze”:
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November 20, 2024
In this episode of The Sandwich Generation Survival Guide, host Candace Dellacona welcomes Dawn Nargi, Executive Director and founder of The W Connection, a nonprofit organization supporting widows through connection, encouragement, education, and empowerment.
Dawn shares her personal story of loss and the inception of The W Connection. The discussion highlights the unique challenges of widowhood and underscores the importance of peer-led support and social connections in the healing process. The conversation further explores the need for widows to redefine their lives and establish a "new normal" while providing practical advice for friends and family on offering meaningful support.
The W Connection's ongoing impact and commitment to assisting widows, particularly those in the Sandwich Generation who may face simultaneous responsibilities for their children and aging parents, emphasizes the continuing need for community support and resources for widows navigating their journeys.
Learn more about The W Connection:
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October 14, 2024
In this episode of The Sandwich Generation Survival Guide, host Candace Dellacona is joined by Dr. Ashwini Bapat, a hospice and palliative care physician from EpioneMD, who brings a wealth of knowledge from her training at Tufts, Yale, and Harvard. Dr. Bapat delves into the complexities of caring for loved ones with serious illnesses, highlighting the vital importance of engaging in meaningful conversations about living with such conditions. She clarifies the distinction between palliative care, which provides an extra layer of support at any illness stage, and hospice care, focused on holistic support during the final months of life. Families are encouraged to approach these difficult discussions with a listening mindset rather than an agenda, paving the way for open dialogues about care preferences, future living arrangements, and the complexities of denial.
Dr. Bapat stresses the need for proper healthcare documentation, including proxies and living wills, to ensure that individuals’ medical wishes are honored. She also advocates for collaboration between caregivers and medical teams, urging the creation of a “caregiver action plan” that reflects not just medical needs but also the patient’s joys and lifestyle preferences. Listeners will learn the importance of sharing caregiving responsibilities among family members and the necessity of seeking help to alleviate the burden.
Additionally, Dr. Bapat emphasizes the value of early conversations to set clear expectations and minimize conflicts within families. Drawing from her personal experiences as both a physician and a daughter, she underscores the significance of being present and truly listening to loved ones, rather than rushing to take action. This episode is filled with invaluable insights, empowering the Sandwich Generation to approach caregiving with compassion, communication, and collaboration.
Learn more about EpioneMD:
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September 16, 2024
In this insightful episode, Candace is joined by Denise Scruggs, the Director of Education at the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners (NCCDP). Together, they explore effective communication strategies for interacting with loved ones experiencing dementia. Denise shares invaluable tips on how to engage meaningfully, address nonverbal cues, and provide comfort amidst cognitive challenges. From understanding the impact of sensory changes to fostering patience and empathy, this episode offers practical advice for caregivers seeking to enhance their interactions and support their loved ones with dignity and compassion. Tune in to learn how to improve communication and make a positive difference in the lives of those affected by dementia.
Learn more about the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners (NCCDP):
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August 13, 2024
In this episode of The Sandwich Generation Survival Guide, Candace Dellacona sits down with accomplished writer, illustrator, and editor Kate Feiffer. Kate opens up about her career journey, from working in TV production to becoming an author, and how her mother’s dementia influenced her latest novel, Morning Pages. The novel explores the emotional and practical challenges faced by those in the Sandwich Generation—people caring for both aging parents and children.
Kate discusses the themes of invisibility and identity loss that caregivers often experience, emphasizing how writing became a vital outlet for her during her caregiving journey. She also reflects on societal views of aging and the crucial role friendships play in the lives of older women. This episode offers a thoughtful exploration of the Sandwich Generation’s unique struggles, providing listeners with relatable insights and practical advice.
Learn more about Kate Feiffer:
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July 10, 2024
In this episode of the Sandwich Generation Survival Guide, host Candace Dellacona interviews Tracy McCubbin, founder of dClutterfly®, who shares her expertise on managing personal belongings and downsizing for aging family members. With 17 years of experience, Tracy emphasizes the importance of framing decluttering conversations around aging goals, such as aging in place or moving to a smaller home, rather than criticizing the amount of stuff. She highlights the benefits of starting these discussions early, getting professional valuations for items, and respecting the emotional connections people have to their belongings. Tracy's compassionate approach helps families navigate the challenges of downsizing while supporting their loved ones' aging objectives.
April 30, 2024
In episode 12, "Part 2: Proactive Planning Strategies with Geriatric Care Managers," The Sandwich Generation Survival Guide's Candace Dellacona continues her conversation with Christine Davis Richmond, LMSW, CMC, CDP, the co-founder of Care Collective Nursing Care & Management. The episode delves into the importance of planning ahead for care and discusses how to initiate conversations with loved ones about setting up a care plan before a crisis occurs.
Candace and Christine emphasize the significance of documents like the health care proxy, living will, and medical orders for life-sustaining treatment in outlining one's medical wishes and ensuring they are carried out effectively. They also highlight the role of the power of attorney in managing finances and accessing necessary care resources, underscoring the importance of thorough planning and understanding the available options. Throughout the episode, Candace and Christine provide valuable insights and guidance for listeners navigating the complexities of caring for aging loved ones.
Learn more about Care Collective Nursing Care & Management:
Learn more about Care Collective Nursing Care & Management:
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April 16, 2024
In episode 11, "Part 1: Geriatric Care Managers," The Sandwich Generation Survival Guide's Candace Dellacona welcomes Christine Davis Richmond, LMSW, CMC, CDP, the co-founder of Care Collective Nursing Care & Management. The episode delves into the pivotal role of geriatric care managers, professionals adept in nursing, social work, or gerontology, specializing in aiding older adults with healthcare management. Christine, drawing from her social work background, elaborates on care managers' responsibilities, which encompass orchestrating diverse aspects of care for clients.
The discussion explores critical scenarios where care manager intervention proves indispensable, such as discharge planning from medical facilities and orchestrating home care. Christine underscores the significance of grasping a client's needs and priorities and advocating for their voice within the healthcare system.
The episode also addresses challenges like remote care coordination and family conflicts, where care managers serve as mediators, translators, and advocates, prioritizing the client's well-being. Concluding on the importance of proactive planning for aging and healthcare needs, the episode sets the stage for exploring proactive planning strategies in the next installment.
Learn more:
Learn more:
Care Collective Nursing Care & Management: https://www.carecollectivehealth.org/
Follow Care Collective Nursing Care & Management:
Follow Care Collective Nursing Care & Management:
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March 4, 2024
In episode 10, "Death and Dying," The Sandwich Generation Survival Guide's Candace Dellacona welcomes Eileen Spillane, the founder of Befriending Death. Eileen discusses her background and how growing up in a family that normalized discussions around death influenced her perspective. She shares her experiences as a critical care nurse, particularly at Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, gaining a unique perspective on life and death.
Eileen explains how her encounters with death prompted her to start Befriending Death. The organization aims to facilitate open conversations about death and dying, providing people with the tools to approach these topics and make informed decisions. The episode delves into the importance of discussing end-of-life preferences early, the distinctions between palliative care and hospice, and the role of death doulas.
The Befriending Death workshops, titled "Let's Chat About Death," are discussed, covering topics such as personal relationships with death, aging, and preparation for one's own end-of-life decisions. Eileen emphasizes the need to empower individuals and patients, giving them the tools to ask the right questions and make informed choices, ultimately restoring a sense of control and dignity.
The episode concludes with a discussion of the community aspect of Befriending Death, fostering intimate conversations in a supportive group setting. Overall, the episode provides valuable insights into approaching and normalizing discussions about death and dying, acknowledging the impact of such conversations on personal and professional aspects of life.
Learn more:
Learn more:
Eileen Spillane: https://www.befriendingdeath.com/about
Befriending Death: https://www.befriendingdeath.com/
National End-of-Life Doula Alliance (NEDA): https://www.nedalliance.org/neda_members_by_name.html
Follow Befriending Death:
Follow Befriending Death:
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February 14, 2024
In episode 9, "Financial Planning," Candace Dellacona of The Sandwich Generation Survival Guide interviews Ryan Rosegarten, a Senior Wealth Strategy Associate and Certified Financial Planner'™ at UBS Katz Wealth Management. The conversation explores challenges faced by the "Sandwich Generation" with a focus on financial planning, including saving for children's education while simultaneously saving for retirement.
Ryan emphasizes the expanded role of financial planners, going beyond traditional investment management. He highlights their involvement in considering a client's overall financial situation, aiding in the creation of both short and long-term wealth-building and risk-management strategies.
Candace inquires about essential information for effective financial planning, with Ryan stressing the importance of understanding a client's complete financial picture and emotional connection to money. The discussion covers how personal backgrounds shape attitudes toward finances, and Ryan emphasizes the need for financial advisors to consider these emotional factors when offering guidance.
The conversation also explores when to engage a financial planner, with Ryan noting that it's not tied to a specific income or asset threshold. Instead, it depends on factors such as the client's commitment to managing finances and the complexity of their financial situation.
December 1, 2023
In episode 8, "Communication Strategies in High Conflict Situations," The Sandwich Generation's Candace Dellacona discusses effective communication in high-conflict situations, particularly relevant to the Sandwich Generation dealing with family issues.
Candace emphasizes the pivotal role of communication across various aspects of life. She highlights a communication method called "B.I.F.F.," which stands for Brief, Informative, Friendly, and Firm. She discusses the challenges of written communication, such as text messages, cautioning against blame, unsolicited advice, admonishments, and unnecessary apologies to sustain a constructive dialogue.
Resources referenced in this episode:
Resources referenced in this episode:
Bill Eddy, BIFF: Quick Responses to High Conflict People (2014) https://www.highconflictinstitute.com/bookstores/biff-quick-responses-to-high-conflict-people
High Conflict Institute https://www.highconflictinstitute.com
Marshall Rosenberg, Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life (2015)
Overall, Candace advises a communication approach that is informative, friendly, and firm to facilitate effective and efficient interactions, especially in emotionally charged situations. If you are interested in learning more or have any questions, please feel free to contact Candace at sandwichgenerationpodcast@gmail.com.
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November 1, 2023
We're back! In episode 7, "The Blind Side of Guardianships," The Sandwich Generation's Candace Dellacona delves into the complex topics of guardianships and conservatorships. She discuss these topics in the context of two high-profile cases: Michael Oher and Britney Spears.
Candace explains the legal distinctions between adoption, guardianship, and conservatorship as they highlight the importance of understanding these legal processes, especially in cases involving individuals with mental health or capacity issues.
The discussion emphasizes the need for advanced planning, such as setting up power of attorney and healthcare proxies, to avoid resorting to guardianships. The episode also addresses the recent legal changes inspired by the Britney Spears case, aiming to protect individuals' rights in healthcare decisions.
If you are interested in learning more or have any questions, please feel free to contact Candace at sandwichgenerationpodcast@gmail.com.
August 17, 2023
In episode 6, "Aging in Place," The Sandwich Generation's Candace Dellacona discusses the topic of aging in place and the importance of understanding the care options available for aging parents, family members, and loved ones. Aging in place refers to the concept of older adults continuing to live in their own homes or communities as they age and their care needs increase, rather than moving to assisted living facilities or nursing homes. The goal of aging in place is to enable seniors to maintain their independence, autonomy, and quality of life while remaining in a familiar environment. However, Candace also discusses how that option may only be appropriate, possible, or desirable for some.
Candace emphasizes the need to advocate for aging loved ones and keep them in a safe and comfortable place where their needs are met, regardless of their physical limitations or mental capacity. Candace shares her personal family experiences and how to address individual needs and desires when care decisions are necessary.
If you are interested in learning more or have any questions, please feel free to contact Candace at sandwichgenerationpodcast@gmail.com.
July 14, 2023
In episode 5, "Miss Independence - Talking prenups, postnups, and planning," The Sandwich Generation's Candace Dellacona discusses the importance of agreements to set you up for success. She emphasizes the need for a comprehensive agreement, premarital or otherwise, that covers various aspects of a person's life, such as home, savings, children, and financial obligations. She shares her experience drafting a prenuptial agreement and the common conversation starters, sticking points, and issues people should discuss before making a significant commitment to another person (or persons). Candace talks about acknowledging the past, protecting your present, and planning for the future to maintain independence!
If you are interested in learning more or have any questions, please feel free to contact Candace at sandwichgenerationpodcast@gmail.com.
June 28, 2023
In episode 4, “Aging with Visibility: Advocating for Our Elderly LGBTQ+ Loved Ones,” The Sandwich Generation’s Candace Dellacona is joined by special guests Sadiya Abjani, Director of Training and Instructional Design, and Nicholas Watson, Managing Director of Social Enterprises, from SAGE, the leading LGBTQ+ aging experts, to discuss the unique issues and challenges that LGBTQ+ older adults face, as well as some of the resources and services that SAGE provides across the United States.
SAGE is America's oldest and largest non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of LGBTQ+ older adults. If you are or know an older LGBTQ+ adult that can benefit from SAGE’s services, please visit the SAGE website at www.sageusa.org
If you are an LGBTQ+ elder or care for one, call the free national SAGE LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline, toll-free, at 877-360-LGBT(5428). The hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in English and Spanish, with translation in 180 languages.
Learn more about Advocacy & Services for LGBTQ+ Elders:
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June 13, 2023
"I'm Coming Out!" When your child comes out as LGBTQIA+, it takes a village to support, love, and affirm them in the best possible ways. Candace talks about how you can support your child through their LGBTQIA+ journey!
May 30, 2023
Candace discusses the concept of true self-care...of putting on your own oxygen mask first so that you can take care of those around you.
May 12, 2023
Welcome to the Sandwich Generation Survival Guide! Candace talks about what the sandwich generation is, how this idea came about, and how this survival guide will help you!
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