Episodios

  • Caring Grandparents Insights from Neil Taft EP - 244

    Caring Grandparents Insights from Neil Taft EP - 244
    Nov 7 2025
    "Thou shalt honor the parents of your grandchildren. That's the most effective way to build lasting family relationships." — Neil Taft 🧩 Episode Summary In this heartfelt and insightful episode, I reconnect with author and grandparenting expert Neil Taft to explore the evolving role of grandparents in modern families. Neil shares insights from his newest book, Caring Grandparents, and explains how grandparents can both care about and care for their grandchildren. We discuss the emotional and financial realities of grandparents raising grandchildren, the importance of respecting family boundaries, and Neil's viral TikTok moment that reached over 2 million people. His message — "Honor the parents of your grandchildren" — has become a mantra for building healthy, lasting family relationships. You will walk away with wisdom on communication, compassion, and the power of being a "good seer and good sayer." 💡 Key Takeaways Grandparenting today means balancing love, support, and boundaries. "Caring Grandparents" highlights both caring for and about grandchildren. Over 2.5 million U.S. households are led by grandparents raising grandchildren. Neil's viral message reminds us: "The mother is the queen who holds the keys to the castle." Healthy grandparenting starts with empathy, communication, and affirmation. Being a "good seer and good sayer" transforms relationships across generations. 🔗 Links & Resources Click on this link to download your free copy of The Caring Grandparents Connection Guide: https://cool-grandpa.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Caring_Grandparents_Connection_Guide.docx 🖥️ Visit Neil's website: CaringGrandparents.com 📚 Learn more about Neil's books: Good to Great, Grandparenting & Caring Grandparents 🎧 Listen to previous episode: Good Seer, Good Sayer: https://cool-grandpa.us/2024/09/26/ep-201-good-seer-good-sayer/ Visit Dr. Kerry Byrnes' group at https://thelongdistancegrandparent.com/ Check out Aaron Larson's community at: https://www.grandparentsacademy.com/ Of course, you're going to want to find Popa Jammie, aka James Lott Jr., on his YouTube channel using this link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJbunerNsVDOMLCrInkAzow You can watch this conversation with me and Neil on YouTube by using this link: https://youtu.be/wTsihHEsoDk 🌐 Follow The Cool Grandpa Podcast: cool-grandpa
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    46 m
  • Millennial Grandparents; Insights From James Lott Jr. - EP 243

    Millennial Grandparents; Insights From James Lott Jr. - EP 243
    Oct 31 2025
    I welcome back longtime friend and repeat guest Dr. James Lott Jr., host of Really, I'm a Grandparent!, to discuss the rise of millennial grandparents and how shifting generational dynamics are reshaping modern family life. Together, we unpack everything from Millennials' and Gen Z's futures as grandparents to how technology, social media, and evolving family structures have changed what it means to be a grandparent today. The discussion is full of humor, honesty, and insight — a lively cross-generational conversation about love, legacy, and laughter. Highlights: Why millennials are redefining what "young grandparent" means. The role of technology and social media in shaping modern family life. How Gen X's "latchkey kid" experience impacts their grandparenting style. Why millennial and Gen Z grandparents may raise kids with less stigma and more openness. The growing visibility of grandfathers in modern families. What multi-generational households tell us about the future of family. The importance of humor, patience, and presence in every generation Links and Resources: Here are the links to James Lott Junior's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@JLJMedia Click HERE to visit the Caring Grandparents website. Here is the link to James's blog about becoming the last living grandparent. It is titled, The Weight and Wonder of Being the Sole Grandparent: https://www.caringgrandparents.com/the-weight-and-wonder-of-being-the-sole-grandparent/ Click on this link to check out Ted Page's book, Good Grandpa: https://
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    58 m
  • After Work: Redefining Retirement with Don Akchin EP - 242

    After Work: Redefining Retirement with Don Akchin EP - 242
    Oct 24 2025
    In this episode of The Cool Grandpa Podcast, I sit down again with author and creative thinker Don Akchin to talk about his new book, After Work: An Honest Discussion About What Comes Next. Don challenges the old idea of retirement as "the end" and redefines it as the beginning of a new and vibrant stage of life. Together, we explore how today's retirees—especially men—can rediscover purpose, creativity, and connection after their careers wind down. In this conversation, you'll hear insights from Don about: Why the old version of retirement no longer fits today's longer, healthier lives The "fragile decade" — the five years before and after leaving work Rediscovering passions left behind for career and family Volunteering, mentoring, and giving back through experience Finding new social connections and combating isolation The rise of retirement coaches and the emotional side of retirement planning How creativity, curiosity, and flexibility lead to fulfillment in later years Don also shares his personal story of rediscovering his creative spark through writing—and how After Work came to life. This is a thoughtful, funny, and deeply encouraging episode for anyone approaching or already living their "after-work" life. Takeaways: Retirement is not the end, but a new beginning. Many struggle with identity after leaving their careers. It's important to explore new passions and hobbies post-retirement. Planning for retirement should include emotional and psychological aspects. Creativity can flourish in later life if nurtured. Volunteering provides a sense of purpose and community. Legacy is about the example we set for future generations. Finding purpose is crucial for a fulfilling after-work life. Social connections are vital for health and longevity. Lifelong learning keeps the mind engaged and curious. Links: 🌐 DonAkchin.com — Learn more about Don's work, his Substack The End Game, and his book After Work. You can use this link to listen to Don's first appearance on the podcast. His episode is called "The Evolving Role of Grandfathers." You can also watch this conversation on YouTube by clicking HERE.
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    44 m
  • Reductive Art and the Grandparenting Journey - EP 241

    Reductive Art and the Grandparenting Journey - EP 241
    Oct 17 2025
    Summary In this episode, we explore the intersection of grandparenting and art, particularly focusing on the concept of reductive art. Drawing inspiration from John Maxwell's leadership principles, I explore how genuine influence isn't about adding more—it's about gently removing what doesn't belong, thereby revealing the beauty and potential already within our children. Through the metaphor of carving, I explore how grandparents can shape their grandchildren's development by employing tools like patience, perspective, encouragement, and presence. Our conversation culminates in the idea of legacy and the art of letting go, allowing grandchildren to shine. Be sure to let me know which tool, patience, perspective, encouragement, or presence YOU are going to sharpen a little more in the coming weeks. Links Click here to listen to the fantastic episode I recorded with world-renowned artist, Rodney Hopkins. We discuss wood carving and his grandfather, who lived in the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia. Check out Dark Hollow Woodworking on Facebook by using this link: https://www.facebook.com/DarkHollowWoodworking Here is the link to my good friend, Neil Taft's organization, Caring Grandparents: https://www.caringgrandparents.com/ Click here to visit the John C. Campbell Folk School.
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    35 m
  • Instilling Work Ethic in Grandchildren - EP 240

    Instilling Work Ethic in Grandchildren - EP 240
    Oct 12 2025
    In this episode of The Cool Grandpa Podcast, I dive into one of the most valuable lessons a grandfather can pass down — a strong work ethic. From small chores to big projects, grandfathers have a unique opportunity to model what it means to start, stick with, and finish a job with pride. I share personal stories, practical ideas, and real-world ways to teach grandkids about responsibility, perseverance, and follow-through. You'll hear how everyday activities — from raking leaves to building a birdhouse — can become powerful lessons in character and commitment. Whether you're a hands-on project grandpa or a storytelling mentor, this episode will help you inspire your grandkids to value effort, own their actions, and feel the satisfaction of a job well done. Takeaways A work ethic is essential for making a lasting impact on grandchildren. Teaching work ethic involves commitment, responsibility, and pride. Involving grandchildren in chores helps them learn independence. Narrating tasks while working with grandchildren reinforces learning. Work ethic is about character, not just completing chores. Sharing personal experiences can help grandchildren understand the importance of a work ethic. Encouraging ownership of small projects fosters responsibility. Reflective questions can help children learn from their experiences. Modeling good work habits is crucial for teaching kids. Resources are available to help grandparents teach work ethic. Links Cool Grandpa Work Ethic Challenge Mike Rowe Sweat Pledge
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    28 m
  • Welcome Back and Three Ways to Connect With YOUR Grandchildren EP - 239

    Welcome Back and Three Ways to Connect With YOUR Grandchildren EP - 239
    Oct 3 2025
    In this episode of The Cool Grandpa Podcast, I return after a short break to share powerful tools grandparents can use to connect deeply with their grandchildren. I talk openly about my own journey over the past year — from navigating career changes and health challenges to stepping into a new role as a special education teacher. With those experiences, I'd like to introduce a practical worksheet designed to spark meaningful conversations with grandchildren. The episode explores three simple but profound questions: How would people describe you if you left the room? How do you WANT people to describe you? What do you want to be doing in five years? I explain how grandparents can guide kids (and even adult children) through these prompts in age-appropriate ways, helping them discover their identity, build confidence, and set meaningful goals. I also believe that these simple yet powerful questions can help intentional grandparents and parents become an "accountability coach" without being intrusive — keeping our cherished conversations supportive, fun, and impactful. Whether you see your grandchildren every week or connect mostly by phone or video, this episode provides a simple framework to nurture strong relationships and help your grandkids envision their future. Resources Mentioned: Ted Page's The Good Grandpa: Stories from the Heart of Grandfatherhood Our conversation with Ted can be found using this link: https://cool-grandpa.us/2025/06/05/good-grandpa-ted-pages-journey-from-blog-to-book-ep-233/ Worksheet download (available in show notes on cool-grandpa.us)
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    24 m
  • Understanding the Fourth Trimester with Sarah Trott - EP 238

    Understanding the Fourth Trimester with Sarah Trott - EP 238
    Jul 11 2025
    In this insightful episode of The Cool Grandpa Podcast, I sit down with Sarah Trott, founder of the Fourth Trimester Podcast and creator of the Hello Gaia app. Together, we unpack how grandfathers can be a vital and compassionate part of the postpartum experience. From the importance of emotional support and boundary-setting to the practical ways grandpas can show up—like folding laundry, running the vacuum, or simply asking, "How are you, really?"—this episode empowers grandfathers to rethink their role in early parenthood. Sarah also shares the evolution of postpartum care, explains what the fourth trimester means, and discusses how her app, Hello Gaia, and podcast provide trustworthy, vetted information for new and expecting families. Whether you're about to become a grandfather for the first time or want to support your adult children better, this episode is packed with timely wisdom, resources, and empathy. Takeaways Grandfathers should be more involved in supporting new parents. The fourth trimester is crucial for both the baby and parents. Open communication between grandparents and parents is essential. Avoid showing up unannounced to support new parents. Postpartum depression affects one in five women and one in ten dads. It's okay for new parents to let their house go a little. Practical help, like cleaning, is valuable for new parents. Social media can create unrealistic expectations for new parents. Building trust through consistent support is key for grandparents. Resources, such as guides and apps, can help grandparents support new parents. 🔗 Resources Mentioned: Fourth Trimester Podcast Hello Gaia App Postpartum Support International (PSI) Click on this Link to watch this conversation on YouTube: https://youtu.be/bg88R2-0Tvg.
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    42 m
  • Reading and Changing Futures with: Sean Webb - EP 237

    Reading and Changing Futures with: Sean Webb - EP 237
    Jul 3 2025
    In this powerful episode of The Cool Grandpa Podcast, I chat with Sean Webb, the Executive Director of Read With Me Volunteer Programs, based in California's Coachella Valley. Sean shares how over 600 volunteers—many of them retirees—are making an incredible impact by reading with children who are English language learners and often two to three years behind in literacy. With warmth and insight, Sean explains how volunteers provide not just academic support but a vital human connection for students, often becoming the "one more caring adult" that kids need. From overcoming challenges at home to improving reading comprehension and building confidence, these volunteers are changing lives—and getting just as much in return. We also learn about: The process to become a volunteer Why literacy by the 5th grade is critical How culture and kindness bridge generational divides A moving story about a student who became an English teacher thanks to her 3rd-grade volunteer mentor The surprising number of nonprofits in the Coachella Valley Why "books don't run out of batteries" Whether you're considering volunteering or want to gain a deeper understanding of the power of literacy, this episode offers inspiration and practical guidance on making a positive impact in your community. 🎧 Tune in and discover how something as simple as reading together can shape futures—one child at a time. Links and Resources Mentioned: 🌐 ReadWithMeVolunteer.org You can watch this video on YouTube by using this link: https://youtu.be/HSRaCP1Yej8
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    40 m