In this powerful episode of Moving Mom and Downsizing Dad, host Chris Spade interviews Brent Wakefield, CEO of Meals on Wheels San Diego County, to uncover how this vital organization is doing far more than meal delivery. From personalized nutrition and wellness checks to pet food delivery and life-saving interventions, Meals on Wheels is a lifeline for thousands of seniors and disabled veterans across San Diego.
Brent shares the origin of the program, its groundbreaking AnnaMeals pet support initiative, how they address isolation and safety, and the critical need for continued investment and community support as our aging population grows.
💻 Learn more or get involved: https://meals-on-wheels.org
🎧 Subscribe to stay up-to-date on senior-focused insights and resources.
Chris Spade
Keller Williams
CA DRE #01785713
CA DRE #01295699
If you’ve ever asked, “How can I get my inheritance sooner?” or “Is there any way to access estate equity during probate?”—this episode is for you.
In this episode of Moving Mom and Downsizing Dad, I talk with Marc Harris, Esq., CEO of ProbateCash, about how inheritance advances help adult children and other beneficiaries unlock estate funds before probate is finalized.
Marc shares how ProbateCash works, the difference between a loan and a non-recourse advance, and what protections are in place for families navigating probate in California and beyond. Whether you’re dealing with delayed estate sales, urgent financial needs, or planning to list a home in probate, this episode provides clear, compassionate advice for Gen Xers supporting aging parents.
Key Topics We Cover:
What is an inheritance advance and how does ProbateCash work?
California Probate Code Section 11604.5 explained
How ProbateCash protects beneficiaries with non-recourse advances
Why realtors and attorneys partner with ProbateCash
Common reasons adult children use advances (repairs, legal costs, daily expenses)
Risks, fees, and financial considerations when using inheritance funding
👉 Learn more at https://probatecash.com
✉️ Contact Marc: marc@probatecash.com
📞 561-476-0018
🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this with a sibling, friend, or client who’s currently stuck in probate.
In this inspiring episode of Moving Mom and Downsizing Dad, Chris Spade sits down with Dr. Joseph Casciani — psychologist, author, and founder of the Living to 100 Club. With over 30 years of experience working with older adults, Dr. Joe shares the mindset shifts, resilience strategies, and surprising benefits of aging that can help anyone embrace their “third act” with confidence.
From redefining the future to navigating life transitions, handling resistance to moving, and finding purpose well into your 70s, 80s, and beyond — this conversation will help Gen Xers support aging parents with empathy while encouraging older adults to see new opportunities ahead.
📌 Topics Covered:
The psychology of aging and why mindset matters most
Resilience after major life changes
Supporting parents through downsizing or aging in place
The upsides of aging (you might be surprised!)
How social connection and purpose lead to longer, happier lives
Chris Spade
Keller Williams
CA DRE #01785713
CA DRE #01295699
Episode: Caring for a Loved One with Lewy Body Dementia—Medical Cannabis, Safer Homes, Nutrition that Works & Real Self-Care
Host: Chris Spade, Moving Mom & Downsizing Dad (Keller Williams Realty • Senior Relocation Specialist)
Guest: Diane Chew (“Dementia Coach Diane”)—caregiver, educator, and creator who documents life caring for her husband, Ben, living with Lewy Body dementia.
Early signs & diagnosis: How Diane recognized “something’s not right,” why reality-orientation often backfires, and what helped instead.
Medical marijuana (educational): How low-and-slow dosing, nurse guidance, and specific cannabinoid blends may help agitation, anxiety, and sleep—plus what Diane wishes she knew sooner.
Safety at home: Practical ways to reduce risk—entry locks that don’t look like locks, stove knob covers, stair gates, and car/drive routines.
Nutrition when sweets win: How to work healthy sweetness into meals, make “fork-friendly” portions, add protein and bone broth, and use smoothies for calories and hydration.
Communication that connects: Why tone, touch, and presence matter more than perfect words; using humor to diffuse hard moments.
Self-care that’s realistic: Diane’s “Oxygen Mask Moments” approach to down-regulate stress (breathwork, tapping, micro-breaks), boundary-setting, and community support.
Resources that help: Local Departments of Aging, disease-specific associations, nurse hotlines, and when hospice can add support.
You can’t argue someone out of their reality; validate and redirect instead.
“Out of sight, out of mind” is your friend for sharp tools, stoves, and exits.
Lean into small, sweet flavor add-ins (cranberry, raisins, fruit yogurt mix) to deliver nutrients.
Caregivers need connection as much as techniques—find (or build) your community.
Hospice can support symptom management and provide an extra layer of help—earlier than most families think.
Website: https://www.dementiacoachdiane.com
FREE Self-Care Handout – Oxygen Mask Moments: https://www.dementiacoachdiane.com/oxygen-mask-moment-handout
FREE Self-Care Training Video: https://www.dementiacoachdiane.com/self-care-training-video
FREE Caregiving Newsletter: https://www.dementiacoachdiane.com/email-updates
Nurse Support + Gummies for Dementia Care (Healer): https://www.healerdirect.com/diane
Socials: TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook @DementiaCoachDiane
Disclaimer: This episode is educational only and not medical or legal advice. Medical cannabis laws vary by state/country; consult a licensed clinician and follow local laws and regulations.
Chris Spade
Keller Williams
CA DRE #01785713
CA DRE #01295699
How much do you really need to retire comfortably in San Diego? In this episode, I break down the true costs: aging in place, hiring in-home help, moving into independent or assisted living, memory care, and even skilled nursing. We’ll translate monthly bills into a realistic savings target, talk Medicare and Medigap basics, and touch on inflation, taxes, and long-term care insurance.
I’m Chris Spade—real estate agent, downsizing guide, and host of Moving Mom & Downsizing Dad. My mission: give you straight talk on what it takes to care for aging parents (or yourself!) without the financial panic.
Subscribe, rate, and share this with a friend who keeps saying, “We should really figure out Mom’s plan.”
Questions?? shoot me a text 619-818-2992
Chris Spade
Keller Williams
CA DRE #01785713
CA DRE #01295699
This episode is dedicated to my dear friend Ellen, whose unexpected health crisis pulled me into the deep end of elder care, paperwork, housing decisions, and what it really means to “show up” for someone you love. Ellen’s journey is the reason Moving Mom & Downsizing Dad exists. Today I’m sharing what she taught me: act before a crisis, get documents in place, build a care team, and check on the elders in your life. Thank you, Ellen. 💛
Chris Spade
Keller Williams
CA DRE #01785713
CA DRE #01295699
619-818-2992
Ready to sell your parents’ house but feeling overwhelmed? 🎙️ In this episode of Moving Mom and Downsizing Dad, San Diego Realtor & Senior Downsizing Specialist Chris Spade reveals a proven 30-day market-ready checklist that turns a lived-in family home into a buyer magnet. Get budget-smart repair ideas, fast decluttering tactics, easy staging hacks, and show-day logistics—all tailored to senior homeowners and Gen X caregivers. Follow the podcast for weekly tips on senior downsizing, estate planning, and stress-free home sales.
Chris Spade
Keller Williams
CA DRE #01785713
CA DRE #01295699
Got questions about helping Mom or Dad downsize, dodge probate, or fund retirement without draining savings? In this 20-minute solo episode, host Chris Spade tackles the 10 most-asked listener questions—from when to start “the talk” and which low-cost home fixes boost value, to the real pros and cons of reverse mortgages, 1031 exchanges, and estate-sale survival tips. If you’re a Gen X caregiver navigating senior real estate decisions, this episode delivers clear, step-by-step answers so you can move forward with confidence.
👉 Subscribe for weekly insights, and hit the link in the show notes to book a no-pressure strategy call with Chris.
Chris Spade
Keller Williams
619-818-2992
CA DRE #01785713
CA DRE #01295699
Avoid Probate Court. Protect Your Family. Start Planning Today.
In this special recap episode, estate planning attorney Sandy Isaac returns to break down the biggest myths — and dangers — when it comes to wills, trusts, probate, and incapacity planning.
✔ Why having just a will still sends your family into probate
✔ How long probate actually takes (spoiler: much longer than you think)
✔ The shocking true cost of probate — and why attorneys get paid from your gross estate
✔ How to know if your parents have a trust (and how to find out when they’re gone)
✔ Who you should (and shouldn't) name as trustee
✔ What happens if your parents become incapacitated — and how to avoid conservatorship court
If you're a Gen Xer helping your parents downsize — or you’re starting to plan for yourself — this is one of the most valuable conversations you’ll hear all year. Don’t wait until you’re in crisis mode.
🎙 Subscribe & follow Moving Mom and Downsizing Dad for more estate planning, downsizing, senior housing and probate conversations.
#MovingMomAndDownsizingDad #EstatePlanning #AvoidProbate #TrustVsWill #ProbateAttorney #HelpingParents #SeniorRealEstate
Chris Spade
Keller Williams
CA DRE #01785713
CA DRE #01295699
Worried your parents’ move could turn into a money pit? Realtor and senior-move specialist Chris Spade reveals the five most expensive mistakes adult children make when helping Mom or Dad downsize—and step-by-step fixes that keep cash (and sanity) in the family. You’ll learn how one skipped five-minute conversation cost a family $12,000, why early decluttering beats storage fees, and which legal documents can stop a sale cold. Grab your free Downsizing Starter Kit in the show notes, then hit Follow for weekly, no-fluff guidance on senior housing, estate planning, and smarter real-estate moves in San Diego and beyond.
Chris Spade
Keller Williams
CA DRE #01785713
CA DRE #01295699
Gen Xers, grab a coffee—this one is for you! 🏡 In today’s episode of Moving Mom and Downsizing Dad, host Chris Spade sits down with friend and client Dave McCulloch, who just helped his parents sell their longtime Carlsbad home at 3975 Highland Dr.
Dave unpacks the real lessons he learned while downsizing aging parents, from balancing timelines and emotions to tackling paperwork, dumpsters, and decision fatigue. You’ll hear:
Why “it’s always something” became the family mantra during the 30-day escrow
The $400 dumpster hack that saved everyone’s sanity
How early trust & power-of-attorney prep kept the process on rails
Tips for preserving memories without drowning in keepsakes
Budget truths about movers, declutter pros, and last-minute repairs
Whether you’re staring at a garage full of memories or simply planning ahead, Dave’s candid advice will help you navigate senior relocation, estate planning, and family communication—minus the drama.
➡️ Have a question about your own transition? Send Chris a text at 619-818-2992
🔔 Follow, rate, and review so more families find the show when they need it most!
Chris Spade
Keller Williams
CA DRE #01785713
CA DRE #01295699
In this episode of Moving Mom and Downsizing Dad, host Chris Spade interviews Deborah Martin, CEO of ElderHelp San Diego. Deborah shares the organization's mission to help seniors live independently in their homes with dignity and offers insights into key programs like Care Coordination, Senior A GoGo, and volunteer-driven initiatives. If you’re a Gen Xer navigating the complexities of aging with your parents, this episode is packed with valuable advice on caregiving, housing options, and senior support resources. Tune in to learn how ElderHelp is making a difference for seniors and their families in San Diego.
Chris Spade
Keller Williams
CA DRE #01785713
CA DRE #01295699
619-818-2992
In this episode of Moving Mom and Downsizing Dad, I sit down with Monica Flynn, a Senior Care Advisor at A Right Place for Seniors in San Diego. Monica shares her deeply personal journey through caregiving and how it led her to help families find the best care options for their aging loved ones. We unpack the emotional side of placing a parent in assisted living, how to prepare financially, what families get wrong about senior care, and how to match a senior with the right community—not just the nearest or nicest.
Whether you're just beginning the journey or knee-deep in the process, Monica offers practical wisdom, insider tips, and compassionate guidance to help you make the best decisions with clarity and confidence.
Chris Spade
Keller Williams
CA DRE #01785713
CA DRE #01295699
In this episode of Moving Mom and Downsizing Dad, host Chris Spade sits down with Karina Rios, Residential Outreach Specialist at St. Paul’s Senior Services, one of San Diego’s most trusted senior living providers. Karina breaks down the different types of senior care—from independent living and assisted living to memory care and skilled nursing—and shares expert tips on what families should look for when choosing a senior community.
Whether you're just starting the search or feeling overwhelmed with options, this conversation will give you real answers, helpful advice, and peace of mind.
Learn about the PACE program, pet-friendly options, activities that keep seniors connected, and how to avoid common mistakes during the selection process.
Chris Spade
Keller Williams
CA DRE #01785713
CA DRE #01295699
In this solo recap episode of Moving Mom and Downsizing Dad, host Chris Spade reflects on the first 16 episodes and the powerful lessons shared by expert guests—from estate planning attorneys and fiduciaries to senior move managers, Medicare specialists, and aging-in-place pros. If you're helping your parents navigate the next chapter—downsizing, moving, or planning for aging—this episode is your must-listen roundup of actionable insights. Whether it’s understanding trusts, choosing the right Medicare plan, or avoiding family conflict during estate sales, this episode will prepare you for what's ahead.
In this episode of Moving Mom and Downsizing Dad, host Chris Spade talks with Jamie Shapiro, founder of Silver Linings Transitions and an A+ accredited senior move manager. Jamie shares how her team supports seniors and their families through right-sizing, emotional transitions, and seamless moves. Learn the difference between traditional movers and certified senior move managers, what really happens during a downsizing move, and how to avoid family conflict when it’s time to let go of decades of belongings. If you're a Gen Xer helping aging parents plan a move, this episode is packed with insight and compassion.
🔗 Connect with Jamie: https://silverliningstransitions.com
💼 Accredited by NASMM: https://nasmm.org
Chris Spade
Keller Williams
CA DRE #01785713
CA DRE #01295699
If the idea of sorting through decades of belongings makes your head spin, hit “play.” In this episode of Moving Mom & Downsizing Dad, Chris Spade sits down with estate-sale pro Rey Ayon, owner of True Heritage Estate Sales, to unpack the emotional and logistical hurdles that come with downsizing a lifetime of memories. Rey explains how to separate sentimental value from market value, why pricing strategy matters, and the simple mindset shifts that can make the process less overwhelming for you and your parents.
Key takeaways
How to start decluttering years before a move
What actually sells (and what doesn’t) in today’s estate-sale market
Proven tactics for avoiding family squabbles over heirlooms
Red-flag questions to ask before you hire any estate-sale company
Connect with Rey Ayon
• Website: https://trueheritagehomes.com
• Email: sales@trueheritagehomes.com True Heritage Estate Sales
• Phone: (619) 634-9012 True Heritage Estate Sales
Need San Diego real-estate advice? Reach out to host Chris Spade, Keller Williams Realty—call, text, or schedule a chat.
In this episode of Moving Mom and Downsizing Dad, Chris Spade sits down with Erica Sell, founder of Harmony Home Medical in San Diego, to explore how seniors can safely and stylishly age in place. With nearly two decades of experience in the medical equipment and home accessibility world, Erica shares practical insights into home safety evaluations, trending products like zero-threshold showers and stylish grab bars, and how families can avoid crisis-mode care by planning early. Whether you're helping a parent or thinking ahead for yourself, this episode is packed with expert tips to help you create a safe, beautiful, and functional living space.
If you have questions about this podcast, you can call Harmony Home Medical at 858-560-8177
Chris Spade
Keller Williams
CA DRE #01785713
CA DRE #01295699
In this episode of Moving Mom and Downsizing Dad, Chris Spade sits down with certified estate planning attorney Sandy Isaac to break down everything Gen Xers need to know about helping their parents plan their estates. From the difference between wills and trusts to avoiding probate, understanding power of attorney, and selecting the right trustee, this conversation covers the essentials in plain English. Whether your parents are aging in place or considering a move, having a clear estate plan in place can make a world of difference. Don’t wait—get the knowledge you need to protect your family’s legacy.
Chris Spade
Keller Williams
CA DRE #01785713
CA DRE #01295699
In this episode of Moving Mom and Downsizing Dad, we're joined by Jen and Tori, founders of Sort It Out San Diego—professional organizers who specialize in helping seniors and their families declutter, downsize, and transition with dignity. Whether you're helping a parent move into assisted living, planning for retirement, or just trying to simplify a longtime family home, Jen and Tori share expert tips, emotional insights, and practical strategies to make the process smoother.
We cover how to start the conversation about downsizing, how to handle sentimental items, and how to organize room-by-room without overwhelming your loved one. This episode is perfect for Gen Xers supporting aging parents or anyone looking for compassionate advice on senior transitions.
You can reach out to Jen and Tori by going to their website: https://sortitoutsd.com/
Questions? Call me at 619-818-2992
Chris Spade
Keller Williams
CA DRE #01785713
CA DRE #01295699