Episode Details

When Alex Lollback received a string of anxious late-night texts from her mum, she had no idea it would mark the beginning of a year that would upend every part of her life. As the executive producer of Ladies We Need To Talk and a mother of two, Alex was already stretched — but when her mum’s physical and mental health rapidly declined, she found herself thrust into the thick of the sandwich generation: raising young kids while becoming a full-time carer for a parent in crisis.

In this raw and generous conversation, Alex shares what it’s like to be “everything to everyone” — the living grief, the system failures, the burnout, and the impossible decision to move her beloved mum into residential care. If you’re quietly carrying it all, this episode will make you feel seen.

FIND OUT MORE

If you’re caring for aging parents, navigating your own next chapter, or just trying to keep all the balls in the air—you’re not alone. At Violet, we offer free tools and support to help families navigate the last stage of life with care and confidence. Visit violet.org.au to start the conversation.

CREDITS 

Host: Melissa Reader

Guest: Alex Lollback from Ladies We Need To Talk 

Executive Producer: Lize Ratliff

Find out more about Violet at violet.org.au

Agehood is the podcast that finally says what we're all thinking but rarely saying out loud. Hosted by Melissa Reader, CEO of Violet, we have the conversations that matter most: watching our parents age, being everyone's go-to person, the mess of love and duty, what it really takes to care for those we love, and yes, death, dying, and loss.

You'll hear Australia's most trusted voices, from beloved broadcasters to respected experts, vulnerably sharing their own stories alongside practical guidance that actually helps. This isn't about having all the answers—it's about asking the right questions and knowing you're not alone.

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