Homecoming & Caregiving: Sarah Davis’ Story

In this episode of Sandwiched, host Paul H. Richardson, Jr. sits down with Sarah Davis (she/her), former caregiver to her mother, Sandy Davis.

Sarah shares her journey of moving from the Bay Area back to Iowa to care for her mom, who was living with Alzheimer’s. As Sandy’s only immediate family member, Sarah became her primary caregiver—navigating difficult choices, transitions to assisted living and nursing care, and the emotional weight of being the sole support system.

We talk about:

• ✈️ How two “temporary” trips to Iowa turned into a long-term move

• 🏡 The challenges of adjusting to caregiving, homeownership, and building a care team

• 🧘‍♀️ Why yoga, walks with her mom’s dog, and classes like the “stop method” became essential acts of self-care

• 🎶 How music therapy and finding community through zHilarity for Charity (founded by Seth Rogen & Lauren Miller Rogen) gave her strength

• 🎤 Her career in podcasting, including Warmly Iowa and Breathing Wind

Sarah’s story is one of resilience, recalibration, and learning to care for herself while caring for her mom. After Sandy’s passing in October 2024, Sarah has chosen to remain in Iowa—at least for now—as she continues to navigate the first year of grief.

👉 Listen in to hear how Sarah describes her “sandwich” as starting over—overwhelmed, burnt out, yet finding ways to breathe, reset, and create space for herself.