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Bob Abate is on a mission to listen to and capture the stories of WW II veterans from New York City and the surrounding area. We discuss Bob's memories of being a small boy when World War II ended and the celebrations that were going on around him that he didn't understand at the time but grew to appreciate as he grew older. Bob and I also talk about his early years going through the Naval Academy and his academic career after leaving the Navy.
Bob started his passion for collecting veteran stories when he noticed that one individual who had been a heck of an athlete before going to Vietnam was not included in Manhattan University's Hall of Fame. That person is Tyrone Pannell. Through the research and induction comments that Bob made, you are going to enjoy hearing the touching story of how Tyrone's daughter got to know her father, who died when she was just a baby.
You will also enjoy hearing about Bob's effort and passion for getting the veterans to tell their stories without editing, polishing, or editorial comments. Their story is THEIR STORY, with all the good and the bad that come from raw memories and places in the heart that only they have known and experienced.
Once you have listened to this conversation, I encourage you to share it with your friends and family who are interested in great stories and who might be interested in learning how to capture the memories of family and friends who have served this country.
LinksHere is Bob's email address should you wish to reach out to him: [email protected]
You can also use this link to hear another great conversation with Bob conducted by the Yonkers Public Library: http://archive.ypl.org/items/show/512.
You can watch Bob's presentation at the Scarsdale Public Library using this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6J6mUhOSBHk.
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This week's episode is our monthly one-on-one conversation. For our discussion, I have chosen to share a few questions and topics I recently had from grandparents. The first question concerns spoiling the grandchildren. Our second topic is the importance of knowing basic first aid and CPR, primarily pediatric CPR. The third topic is creating an enjoyable connection with the grandchildren as a Long-Distance Grandparent during Thanksgiving and the Holidays when you can not be there in person.
I also share my thoughts about how we, as grandfathers, can help our grandchildren connect with the veterans in our families and honor veterans, both living and deceased, in our community.
LinksHere is the link to Dr. Kerry Byrne's The Long Distance Grandparent: https://thelongdistancegrandparent.com/
Click on this link to investigate More Than Grand: https://www.morethangrand.com/
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Doug Morneau joins us for an engaging conversation. Doug shares his experiences and insights as a grandfather, discussing the importance of family relationships, the impact of technology, and the value of spending quality time with grandchildren. He reflects on his upbringing, the lessons learned, and how he aims to create a nurturing environment for his grandkids. Doug emphasizes the significance of community support and the role of faith in family life and offers practical advice for new grandfathers.
Once you have listened to this conversation, be sure to share it with a friend who would enjoy this conversation and learning about building meaningful solid relationships with grandchildren.
LinksUse this link to check out Doug's website and business: https://www.dougmorneau.com/. You can also use this link to get Doug's social media information.
If you would like to reach out to Doug directly, you can use his email, which is: [email protected]
You can watch this episode on YouTube by using this link: https://youtu.be/25cvzYhV9A0
Here is the link for the episode with Jim Padilla that we mentioned in this week's conversation: https://cool-grandpa.us/2024/07/26/ep-192-your-life-is-about-other-people/
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Michael Platt from Platt Motors sits down with us to share the remarkable story of his grandfather and the car business he started. You will enjoy hearing how Michael's grandfather started one of the earliest used car dealerships in New Jersey. Michael shares his earliest memories of going to auctions and seeing his father and grandfather work as direct-to-consumer sales and wholesale brokers.
Michael and I talk about the nostalgic pull that cars can have with grandchildren remembering their grandparent's vehicles and how that nostalgia can contribute to people buying cars that remind them of their parents and grandparents. We also discussed which classic cars might be a little impractical with us older guys who want to use them for road trips.
If you haven't already done so, please like, share, and subscribe to this podcast and YouTube channel. Also, remember to check out the Bookstore for cool merchandise that would make any cool grandpa happy.
LinksUse this link to check out Platt Motors: https://www.plattmotors.com/
If you would like to reach out to Michale via LinkedIn, you can use this link: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-platt-81249b117/
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Andre Renna shares his experience as a grandfather with us. We learn about Andre's reaction to learning that he would become a grandpa for the first time and how he was very excited to meet his grandchildren. I ask Andre about being a grandfather in the same community as his children and grandchildren. Andre shares with us how being close to his grandchildren is a blessing, but at times, it can also be difficult.
We learn about Andre's background growing up in Brooklyn, NY, with his extended family very close by and having that shared experience of living and growing up next to his grandparents. Andre and I also discussed his wonderful experience co-writing a book with his granddaughter. He shares with us the experience of his granddaughter creating the story while he was pushing her on a swing out in the park.
You will also be inspired by Andre's involvement as a volunteer at his grandchildren's school. Andre actively acts as a role model and mentor to the children in the school's reading program. The boys in the school also connect with Andre when he assists in the school's cafeteria. He shares that his ability to build connections with the boys through sports and other activities they are interested in helps them and their teachers have better lines of communication and areas of interest outside of the classroom.
You will enjoy hearing how Andre builds meaningful and lasting connections with his grandchildren. Once you have listened to this episode, remember to like, subscribe, and share it with a friend.
Remember to check out my Bookstore page for fun gifts for yourself or the Cool Grandpa in your life.
LinksHere is the email address to connect with Andre and order the book The Surprise Birthday Party: The Adventures of Aria and Ducky: [email protected]
You can check out the book at Amazon as well using this link: https://www.amazon.com/Surprise-Birthday-Party-Adventures-Ducky/dp/0578903954/ref=sr_1_1?crid=376YXD5V341Z9&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.fh3C8PvpkQ8X-xtbuUctQQ.mVnH45R6fAwwFv_47dr2wt8eZRBgsIf0r_IqkHIDLHU&dib_tag=se&keywords=The+Surprise+Birthday+Party%2C+andre+Renna&qid=1728511997&sprefix=the+surprise+birthday+party%2C+andre+renna%2Caps%2C92&sr=8-1 (if you order the book through Andre, using his email address, he can have the book signed for you)
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This is our second panel or round table discussion on The Cool Grandpa Podcast. I like to call these activities Cracker Barrels. I think I like that term because it is what we used in Scouts and because it is a fun nostalgic term for people getting together informally and sharing important and sometimes not-so-important information.
We have four wonderful guests joining me to give their thoughts on how fathers and fathers-in-law can support moms. After all, the old adage that if mom isn't happy, no one is happy is more true than we might like to admit.
This event's participants are Dr. Kerry Byrne, Lori Wynne, DeeDee More, and Amanda Weishar. I have known these awesome women for some time and have worked with Kerry and DeeDee on some grandparenting projects in the past.
You will enjoy this fun conversation, and I encourage you to share it with other people who may be unsure about how to support their adult daughters and daughters-in-law.
LinksUse this link to access the More Than Grand website. DeeDee More's contact information is available on her website located at: https://www.morethangrand.com/
You can learn more about Dr. Kerry Byrne's work on behalf of grandparents at The Long Distance Grandparent and join me in The Long Distance Grandparent Society (LDGS). You might also like to sign up for the Ideas Club. Regardless, the way to connect with Kerry is to start with this link: https://thelongdistancegrandparent.com/
To connect with Lori and possibly grab a gift card for your wife, daughter, or daughter-in-law, check out Lori's website at https://www.fashionwithflair.com/
You can check out this episode on YouTube by clicking on this link: https://youtu.be/81SLxCyeLCw
One of the great books mentioned in our conversation is The Essential Questions: Interview Your Family to Uncover Stories and Bridge Generations, https://www.amazon.com/Essential-Questions-Interview-Uncover-Generations/dp/0593420926/ref=asc_df_0593420926/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=693313423915&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=6306226522772353603&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1015313&hvtargid=pla-1643658361638&psc=1&mcid=146d2c0d7e103f8ca15a885e4797003f.
Amanda mentioned this excellent parenting book, Parenting: A House United: Changing Children's Hearts and Behaviors by Teaching Self-Government. https://www.amazon.com/Parenting-Changing-Childrens-Behaviors-Self-Government/dp/1892131331
You can check out Lori's father-in-law's YouTube channel by clicking on this link: https://www.youtube.com/@thehorseandi (Be sure to 'Like and Subscribe' to the channel)
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Neil Taft joins our conversation this week to talk about being a Caring Grandparent. Specifically, we learn how Neil, a great-grandfather, is leading the charge to help all grandparents build and maintain incredible relationships with their grandchildren.
Neil's mission is to enhance Grandparents' bonds with their Grandchildren by building solid and meaningful connections. Neil believes that stories and shared experiences can strengthen the grandparent/ grandchild bond.
You are going to love how Neil has worked hard to develop and maintain his relationships with his children, grandchildren, and now great-grandchildren. Neil shares with us a remarkable story of how he has been able to create and maintain a relationship with his ex-daughter-in-law. Neil's work in that relationship now enables him to remain an active grandfather in his nineteen-year-old granddaughter's life.
We also talk about one of Neil's philosophies: to be a GOOD SEER and a GOOD SAYER. Simply put, this philosophy is centered on the principle that when you see something good in the world, say something about it. The good could be a great piece of street art or, as Neil shares, seeing a person with a charming piece of clothing. Neil belives that everyone from our youngest grandchild to older people we run into each wants and seeks out approval and complements. As a grandfather, Neil finds this a natural state for him to be in that doesn't cost anything but produces enormous returns for the person receiving the compliment.
LinksUse this link to visit Neil's webpage and check out the great work that he is doing over there: https://www.caringgrandparents.com/
You can use this link to purchase Neil's book, Good to Great Grandparenting: https://www.amazon.com/GOOD-GREAT-GRANDPARENTING-Meaningful-Connections/dp/B0CZDH1JTC/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=
This link will take you to Neil's new book, Caring Grandparents: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFV97S8Z
You can watch this conversation on YouTube by clicking on this link:
Here is the link to check out our good friend Dr. Kerry Byrne's The Long Distance Grandparent. I hope you join her group if it suits you and your needs. I like to hang out with this group when I can. https://thelongdistancegrandparent.com/
This link will take you to Grandparent's Academy, a great resource for all grandparents. Neil and I are presenters/ faculty and enjoy connecting with grandparents over at that site as well. https://www.grandparentsacademy.com/
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In this episode, I am taking a victory lap with my good buddy, Steve Ownes, from the Fascination Street Podcast. In this fun conversation, Steve interviews me on my podcast. We discussed my motivations for starting this podcast and why I have kept this project going for over four years.
Steve also talks to me about my children's book and where the heck the follow-up books are. We have a blast discussing the journies we have both been on, and we include some fascinating accounts of folks we have interviewed.
I hope you enjoy this conversation. Please like and subscribe to the podcast if you haven't already done so. You can also check out both of us on YouTube.
LinksHere is the link to my first episode, my introduction to The Cool Grandpa Podcast: https://cool-grandpa.us/2020/05/02/episode-1-introduction/
This is the link to my first interview with Cool Grandpa Dean Nielson: https://cool-grandpa.us/2020/05/02/episode-2-dean-nielson/
Use this link to watch this conversation over on YouTube: https://youtu.be/HNbP4JjmV4U
You can listen to my interview on Fascination Street with Steve Ownes using this link: https://fascinationstreetpod.com/2023/10/greg-payne/
Check out Steve's Podcast, Fascination Street, wherever you listen to podcasts. You can also check out his site by clicking on this link: https://fascinationstreetpod.com/
Check out my Bookstore/Shop page for some cool merchandise that is perfect for the Cool Grandpa in your life: https://cool-grandpa.us/shop/
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This week, our guest is Patrick Brady. Patrick is passionate about gathering his family history and stories. As Patrick started to look at the marketplace, he recognized that there wasn't a service or platform that would allow building a central location to preserve that unique family history and enable the family to make it their own truly.
At Heritage HQ, each family gets its unique domain to upload and create files that can be shared and edited. The family website or domain will contain a family tree and records of birthdates, genealogy, and essential documents. Each family will have a Heritage Helper to assist family members with the technology used and create an individualized family newsletter.
Heritage HQ helps to build bridges between generations in several ways, including helping family members record in-person, video, and audio interviews. This is an excellent way for young family members to discover the stories of their grandparents, aunts, uncles, and others and learn about the challenges and triumphs of those family members and close family friends.
Some of the other services that a family can use with their Heritage HQ account are:
Photo Organizer Social Media Hub/ Integration Digitization services - copying those printed photos into an electronic formatYou will enjoy learning more about Heritage HQ, Patrick's experience working as a professor in China, and how that experience helped shape his thoughts about capturing family stories.
LinksYou can watch this conversation on YouTube by clicking this link: https://youtu.be/Nl8N6AzaHrY
Here is the link to Heritage HQ: https://www.heritagehq.co/
If you would like to book a 30-minute call with Patrick, use this link to Book a HeritageHuddle Call: https://calendly.com/patrick-heritagehq/30min?month=2024-09
Check out this example of a HeritageHQ Family Website: https://heritagehqexample.com/.
Please email us: [email protected]
Call us: (512) 887-2726
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This is our monthly one-on-one conversation. This week, I am discussing my impressions of DeeDee More's great blog post, "A Grandparent's Response to the Surgeon General's Advisory on Parents' Mental Health."
Some of the data collected over the last few years concerning parents and their mental health might be surprising to you. I was surprised to learn about some of the challenges that young parents face beyond dealing with picky eaters, colicky infants, and potty training, to name a few.
As Grandfathers, I think we can help our grandchildren's parents by doing the following:
Educate ourselves on what is causing stress among young parents and be sensitive to the fact that their stresses are not the same as what caused us stress 20+ years ago. Check-in on the parents, both your son or daughter and son-in-law and daughter-in-law. Do this by taking just them out to eat or even by using your phone or texting, depending on how they communicate. Ask about THEM and not the grandkids. I know this is a tough one, but do it anyway. When you visit or talk to them, be aware of their behavior, situation, and what is happening around their home. Notice what is different or "not them," as this could be a sign that they could use additional support or TLC. Remember to be a good listener. Pick up on whether the person you are talking to wants your input or just needs a friendly ear so they can vent. DO NOT get into a comparison or contest about how rough you had it as a parent and how rough they have it today. YOU went through your struggles and have experience and hindsight. THEY are in the middle of their challenges and need support from their father or father-in-law.Once you have listened to this podcast, please remember to subscribe, like, and share this conversation with other people who would enjoy the show AND could use the information and support I try to put into every episode.
LinksI invite you to join me at Grandparents Week by clicking this link: https://training.grandparentsacademy.com/a/2147832178/ikxv5HFd.
If you want to sign up for my course, Intentional Grandfathering, please use this link: https://training.grandparentsacademy.com/intentional-grandfathering-masterclass.
You can watch this conversation on YouTube by clicking this link: https://youtu.be/0rOVrNrtMFg.
Here is the link to DeeDee's fantastic blog post: https://www.morethangrand.com/blog/grandparents-response-to-the-surgeon-generals-advisory-on-parents-mental-health
Here is the direct link to download your copy of the Surgeon General's Parental Mental Health & Wellness report: https://www.hhs.gov/surgeongeneral/priorities/parents/index.html.
You can listen to the podcast episode DeeDee and I had together and learned about More Than Grand using this link: https://cool-grandpa.us/?s=DeeDee+More.
Here is my buddy Steve Ownes' website for his podcast, Fascination Street: https://fascinationstreetpod.com/.
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Doug Sohn from Success After Sixty is joining the podcast to discuss his experience living in a multi-generational home. If Doug's name sounds familiar, that is because he is a returning guest. Doug is joining us again to talk about living in a multi-generational home.
We learn that Doug and his wife have always had a full home, regardless of whether it contained six children or other people coming to live with them. As our discussion continues, we learn that Doug and his wife had moved into a retirement community, expecting they would be mostly just themselves.
Doug shares with us that his oldest son was discharged from the military while he was getting divorced. The result was that their son Brian and their three-year-old grandson, Ben, came to live with them, creating a multi-generational home.
We talk about how everyone had to work to adjust to having three generations under one roof. Some of the topics we talk about are how they have successfully created separation between Grandma/Mom - Grandpa/Dad - Son/Dad - Grandson/Son. Some of the separation of roles has created boundaries where input and advice can be shared, but that input might not be implemented with their Brain and his son Ben.
You will enjoy learning from Doug and his fantastic experience and insights about living and getting along inside a multi-generational home. This conversation is full of great advice for grandfathers and grandparents who are finding themselves living in a multi-generational situation, whether it is temporary or permanent.
Remember to like and subscribe to this conversation on your favorite podcast application. You can also subscribe to my YouTube channel.
LinksI invite you to join me at Grandparents Week by clicking this link: https://training.grandparentsacademy.com/a/2147832178/ikxv5HFd.
If you want to sign up for my course, Intentional Grandfathering, please use this link: https://training.grandparentsacademy.com/intentional-grandfathering-masterclass.
You can watch this conversation on YouTube by clicking on this link: https://youtu.be/slDUgzAwJ5Y
Here is the link to the conversation that Doug and I had about his work with Success After Sixty: https://cool-grandpa.us/?s=Success+After+Sixty.
Doug is providing a fantastic giveaway for the listeners of our conversation. The giveaway is Doug's "Win Your Morning Guide." This guide offers some useful tools and is also a great entrée into Doug's world: https://acrobat.adobe.com/link/review?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:5710ef63-adb2-3e9b-88ea-528aa8afe264
Click on this link to view the Success After Sixty website: https://successaftersixty.org/
To join the Success After Sixty Facebook group, click this link: https://www.facebook.com/successaftersixty.org.
You can follow Doug on 'X' by clicking this link: https://twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2Fsohn_douglas.
You can follow Doug on LinkedIn by clicking on this link: linkedin.com/in/dcsohn
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Karen Stillman from Baby Making Genius is back on the podcast to discuss her relationship with her grandfathers and share her thoughts about her father as a grandpa. We are introduced to George (Granddad) and Henry (Grandpa Daddy)and their relationship with Karen and her siblings.
Continuing our discussion, we hear how Granddad was a scary grandfather and Grandpa Daddy was a fun-loving card-playing grandfather. Grandpa Daddy introduced the kids to the game Crib or Cribbage. We learn that the grandkids were brought up playing by 'grandpa's rules,' meaning grandpa typically won the game. Grandpa Daddy would also let the grandchildren drive/ steer the car down to the country store for treats.
Granddad, who was scary, owned a garage and loved his fish tanks. He didn't talk very much, and Karen remembers him smelling of grease, tobacco, and sweat. As Karen remembers it, Grandad had a particular way of talking to them that made the kids uneasy. We continue discussing how men can sometimes give off a scary vibe. As this energy is most likely unintentional, grandfathers can do a few things to be a bit more welcoming and fun-loving with their grandchildren.
You are going to enjoy these memories that Karen shares with us. She does a great job of sharing fun memories and great advice from both a granddaughter's and a mother's point of view. Once you have listened to this program, please remember to like, subscribe to the podcast, and share it with a friend.
LinksYou can use the following link to visit Dr. Karen'swebsite: https://babymakinggenius.com/
Here is the link to Dr. Karen's Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/BabyMakingGenius.
Dr. Karen would enjoy connecting with you on LinkedIn. You can do so by using this link: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-stillman-md-7078b410/
Here is the link to my previous conversation with Karen: https://cool-grandpa.us/2024/07/ep-191-baby-making-genius/
I invite you to join me at Grandparents Week by clicking this link: https://training.grandparentsacademy.com/a/2147832178/ikxv5HFd.
If you want to sign up for my course, Intentional Grandfathering, please use this link: https://training.grandparentsacademy.com/intentional-grandfathering-masterclass.
Karen's phone number is (+1) 613-314-9802
You can watch this conversation on YouTube by clicking on this link: https://youtu.be/EZ6EEAqxtRY.
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This week's guest is Jim Tracy, or as he is better known, The Grampion. Jim and I dive right in and talk about the challenges and fun of being younger grandfathers. Jim shares with us how he is building connections with his grandchildren of all ages. We learn how The Grampion is staying active and working out with his grandson, who is a Division 1 level football recruit, and his five-year-old grandson, who wants to sling on a ruck pack and go hike the mountains around Eagle(Boise), Idaho. We also learned how Jim would sit down with the granddaughter, who was learning music, and how he encouraged her to keep practicing and getting better.
You will love this conversation with Jim as we learn his insights about living in a multi-generational home. We will also learn how his grandson, Wes, gave him the gift of the title "The Grampion." It was great to learn about how Jim got his pilot's license and earned another title, that of a call sign of 'CHaos.' Jim also shares with us the impact that his grandfather made on him while at fish and hunt camps and how Jim learned to interact with other men his grandfather's age.
This is just a fun conversation that Jim and I have. You are going to enjoy joining us for our virtual cup of coffee. After you listen to this conversation, please do me a favor and share this episode with someone else who would enjoy learning from Jim on how to build meaningful and lasting connections with grandchildren.
LinksHere is the link to Jim's "Grampion" website: https://thegrampion.com/
Check out Jim's YouTube Channel at: https://www.youtube.com/@jimtracygrampion
Check out the Tower Family Foundation's website: https://towerfamilyfoundation.org/
I invite you to join me at Grandparents Week by clicking this link: https://training.grandparentsacademy.com/a/2147832178/ikxv5HFd.
If you want to sign up for my course, Intentional Grandfathering, please use this link: https://training.grandparentsacademy.com/intentional-grandfathering-masterclass.
Should you want to take advantage of 35% off my award-winning children's book, you may do so at this link: https://cool-grandpa.us/shop/
If you would like to watch this conversation on YouTube, you can use this link: https://youtu.be/Em9qtmuGKCQ
Here is the link to the conversation that I had with Cynthia Covey Hollar about the book Live Life In Crescendo: https://cool-grandpa.us/2024/03/ep-172-live-life-in-crescendo/
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This week's conversation is with Aaron Larsen, the founder of Grandparents Academy. In our discussion, Aaron and I discuss the incredible growth of Grandparents Weeks from its first year to the present day. It has been incredible to be associated with Grandparents Academy and watch this amazing community's growth focused on strengthening grandparents and grandchildren.
Incase you don't know what Grandparents Week is all about, It has become the largest online gathering and celebration of grandparents. With your free sign-up, you will get to hear amazing presenters talking about topics such as:
Connect with Grandkids at Any Age and Distance Getting Along with The Parents of Your Grandchildren The Grandparent Evolution - Help Your Family Thrive in Today's World The T.E.A.M. Approach to Proactive Legacy Grandparenting Becoming Glamma - Mixing Fashion, Fitness & Fun Going from Good to Great Grandparenting The Keys to Multi-generational Harmony Resources for Raising Grandchildren And many moreBe sure to sign up for this free event using the link below.
LinksI invite you to join me at Grandparents Week by clicking this link: https://training.grandparentsacademy.com/a/2147832178/ikxv5HFd.
If you want to sign up for my course, Intentional Grandfathering, please use this link: https://training.grandparentsacademy.com/intentional-grandfathering-masterclass.
Should you want to take advantage of 35% off my award-winning children's book, you may do so at this link: https://cool-grandpa.us/shop/
If you would like to watch this conversation on YouTube, you can use this link: https://youtu.be/TXi7epLkE2s
Here is a link to the first interview that I had with Aaron: https://cool-grandpa.us/2022/08/ep-93-grandparents-academy/
Here is another interview that I had with Aaron about Grandparents Week 2023: https://cool-grandpa.us/2023/03/ep-122-resources-for-grandparents/
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A few weeks back, I volunteered at the scout camp where I worked in the 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s. It was a blast being with a group of energetic people who are really putting their hearts and souls into doing what they can to make the world a better place.
I was able to eat, sleep, work, and sweat with these great folks. Over the week, I made a few observations about Generation Z, or iGen, as they are sometimes called. To start out, let's define Gen Z as anyone born between 1995 and 2015.
Here are a few of the characteristics of iGen that I read about from Generational Kinetics (genhq.com).
Gen Z is better at multi-tasking than other generations before them. Gen Z has a desire to work. The iGen cohort is more Entrepreneurial than other generations. (I think this is a natural function of age vs. something particular about this generation) Gen Z thinks that Millennials are old. Social media affects iGen members' self-worth more than other generations. 47% of Gen Zers feel that social media directly impacts how they feel about themselves.After spending about ten days with a group of over 40 Gen Zers, here are a few of my observations.
Few seemed to be self-starters or felt they were not responsible for the area around them regarding upkeep or enhancements. Many seemed to have an exaggerated sense of risk or were risk-averse. There seemed to be a lack of creative problem-solving or creatively working with their constraints to create solutions to physical or non-physical challenges.I want to be clear that while I am sharing my opinions and insights into what I was seeing with a group of teenagers and people in their early 20s, this is not intended to be a negative discussion but rather an opportunity for us grandparents to work and coach up our grandchildren as well as those young people who we come into contact with to help them be more prepared for the challenges they will experience both personally and societally.
What Grandparents can do to help out GenZ:Here are some of my ideas about how we can help our grandchildren who are part of GenZ.
Help them identify tasks that need attention and then help them learn to take the initiative in owning and coming up with a solution. Encourage the taking of calculated risks. Many of our grandchildren live in a highly regulated, minimally risk-tolerant society. The result is that they don't take risks and only see downsides and hazards instead of potential opportunities for fun and gain. Help them be forward-focused. We can do this by encouraging discussions about the freedoms and responsibilities they will have as they age and achieve success in their lives. Work with grandchildren to come up with solutions, even temporary, using the tools and resources on hand. There is a great opportunity for accomplishment that I think younger people miss out on when coming up with a 'good enough' solution using only what is on hand until a better solution to a challenge can be put into place. ConclusionIt would be easy enough for us to join the chorus of doomsayers about the rising generation. After all, doesn't it seem like part of the reward for growing older to take up that mantel of 'the world is going to hell in a handbasket'?
What I am challenging myself and hopefully YOU to do, is to recognize that there might be some gaps that our grandchildren and their generation have BUT then find ways to become part of the solution and not just a crusty old cus sitting on the sidelines telling everyone how awesome it was when you were young. Like Billy Joel said in one of his songs, "You know the good ole days weren't always good. And tomorrow ain't as bad as it seems."
LinksI invite you to join me at Grandparents Week by clicking this link: https://training.grandparentsacademy.com/a/2147832178/ikxv5HFd.
If you want to sign up for my course, Intentional Grandfathering, please use this link: https://training.grandparentsacademy.com/intentional-grandfathering-masterclass.
If you would like to watch this conversation on YouTube, you can use this link:
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Jim Padilla from Gain The Edge joins us this week to talk about his experience as a grandfather. This is a fantastic conversation as we learn about Jim's past and how he grew up with less-than-stellar male role models.
We dive right in and learn about Jim's background and how he never thought he would be a father or a grandfather. Like so many of us, life had other plans, and Jim and his wife are celebrating 30 years together and 25 as husband and wife. They have three fantastic daughters and now six grandchildren.
Jim opens up about being raised in an abusive home and area and being in jail by the time he was 19. We learn how sports, in general, but baseball in particular, helped to save Jim from further trouble. Baseball helped Jim learn how positive leadership works, and community taught him how strong families and tribes are created.
We learn more about how, at age 55, Jim has committed to making this his best year ever—the best year in terms of health and fitness, relationships, learning, success in business, and, importantly, his relationship with God.
Jim's company, Gain The Edge, provides sales systems, strategies, and teams to legacy-minded professionals enabling them to launch their life’s work, grow their businesses, and live out their purpose. Jim and his team go the extra mile for you, your clients, and your leads, focusing on creating a branded, seamless experience that grows sales.
LinksClick on this link to learn more about Gain The Edge: https://www.gaintheedgenow.com/
You can also learn more about Jim using this website: https://jimp360.com/
Here is Jim's cell phone number. He was generous to share this direct line to him so that he can help you and your team: (+1) 916-587-1946
Here is a link to connect with Jim on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jimpadilla02
You can use this link to follow Jim on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gaintheedgenow/
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Dr. Karen Stillman joins the conversation this week to discuss how she helps women worldwide work through fertility issues. We learn about Karen's passion for taking a holistic approach to the challenges women face when addressing issues around fertility.
Dr. Karen talks to us about her challenges when trying to conceive. Although Karen was an Obstetrics and gynecology Resident and had access to numerous tests, doctors, and other resources, it wasn't happening. That's when a conversation with her mother about her successful appendix surgery when she was 13 years old recalled some important memories.
You see, the surgery was successful, but it also revealed that one of her fallopian tubes had knotted on itself and was dying. The surgeon discussed this condition with Karen's mum and told her, "She will have trouble getting pregnant. Sorry.” In later years, when talking about this conversation, Karen was reminded that when she heard this story, she responded, “No one is going to tell me that I can’t have my two babies.”
This memory recall started Karen on the path of addressing her challenges from a purely scientific and holistic approach of mind, body, and spirit. This approach enabled Dr. Karen to have two wonderful children.
We also talk about how fathers and grandfathers can be part of the solution and support structure that our daughters and granddaughters need as part of their care team as they navigate their journey.
This is a fun yet powerful conversation that will help you better understand some of the hurdles women can face as they work to grow their families. Once you have listened to this conversation, remember to like, share, and subscribe to this podcast and YouTube channel so that we can all help get great information into the hands of those who can use it.
LinksYou can use the following link to visit Dr. Karen's website: https://babymakinggenius.com/
Here is the link to Dr. Karen's Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/BabyMakingGenius.
Dr. Karen would enjoy connecting with you on LinkedIn. You can do so by using this link: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-stillman-md-7078b410/
I invite you to join me at Grandparents Week by clicking this link: https://training.grandparentsacademy.com/a/2147832178/ikxv5HFd.
If you want to sign up for my course, Intentional Grandfathering, please use this link: https://training.grandparentsacademy.com/intentional-grandfathering-masterclass.
Karen's phone number is (+1) 613-314-9802
You can watch this conversation on YouTube by clicking on this link:
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This week's guest, Craig McManus from McPlants, is on the show to discuss gardening and landscaping and how these activities can build lasting memories. Craig starts our discussion by sharing his experience as a professional gardener and operating one of the best garden centers just outside of Atlanta.
We review and visit Craig's memories of becoming a grandfather for the first time and how he started creating a special bond with his grandson, Gram. Some of Craig's earliest memories are of holding his grandson and just making a popping sound with his mouth that seemed to both entertain and focus Gram's attention on his loving grandfather.
Craig then shares his memories of his grandfathers, Pete and Pop. Their wonderful memories entertain us and learn about a variety of apples, Yates, that, according to Craig, make some of the best-tasting apple juice and cider. (To learn more about Yates Apples, check out this link: https://www.centuryfarmorchards.com/descripts/yates.html)
You are going to enjoy this conversation with Craig. You will especially like the stories about his grandfathers, his experience as a grandfather, and how working in the garden or landscaping can help build up memories of working as a family that will last a lifetime.
Once you listen to this episode, remember to share, like, and subscribe to my podcast. Also, check out the links below to learn more about Craig's Garden Center and The Garden Question Podcast.
LinksYou can check out McPlants by clicking on this link: https://mcplants.com/craig-mcmanus/
To listen to Craig's podcast, The Garden Question Podcast, you can use this link: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Rfu0iMGLqU81qyJLaNfqb.
I invite you to join me at Grandparents Week by clicking this link: https://training.grandparentsacademy.com/a/2147832178/ikxv5HFd.
If you want to sign up for my course, Intentional Grandfathering, please use this link: https://training.grandparentsacademy.com/intentional-grandfathering-masterclass.
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This weekend is July 4th or Independence Day in the United States. It was the day that the United States declared its independence from England. In this one-on-one conversation, I want to encourage you to declare your independence from just ONE thing holding you back on your journey to becoming the coolest grandparent ever.
We declare independence from a negative mindset, emotion, or even a condition by doing the following:
Write down (paper, a Google Doc, whatever but something) ONE (1) thing causing you not to enjoy being the best grandparent ever. Don't write down more than one thing. We can rinse and repeat this process as often as we like. Think about and write down what actions, thoughts, etc., are in your control. Don't worry about what you can't control, focus on you. When you look at your list, is this complete, or have you left items off because of assumptions or oversite on your part? Create a plan to add to, enhance, remove, or reduce thoughts or actions that you control that would reduce or eliminate your inability to enjoy being the awesome grandparent you are. Keep track of your plan and then see if it resolves your negative thoughts or anxiety about whatever you decide to work on. Don't be afraid to adjust your plan as you need to. The goal of breaking free from what is controlling you is what is important, not how you get there. Celebrate your Independence!In my example this week, I used the anxiety that some grandparents feel when they send letters or gifts to their grandchildren and then don't hear anything back from the children's parents. I talked about how, immediately hearing lately from the grandchildren's moms and dads whether something has been received, using a tracking number can help ease someone's mind. After all, you can follow up and check with the carrier whether an item was delivered.
I hope you find these steps and this helpful approach. If you did, please share this content with a friend or family member who might be struggling with an aspect of being a grandparent. I want all of us to declare our independence from whatever is holding us back from enjoying this exceptional period and role in life.
LinksI invite you to join me at Grandparents Week by clicking this link: https://training.grandparentsacademy.com/a/2147832178/ikxv5HFd.
If you want to sign up for my course, Intentional Grandfathering, please use this link: https://training.grandparentsacademy.com/intentional-grandfathering-masterclass.
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This week's episode is a round table or cracker barrel discussion for The Cool Grandpa Podcast. The term cracker barrel comes from when, primarily, men would gather in a country store and eat saltine crackers out of a wooden barrel while talking about the weather, news, gossip, etc. I thought this description fits rather well to get a great group of guys together to talk about Grandpa stuff. In this episode, we have the following guests, who comprise our august body: Frank Pomata, who joins us from Long Island. James Lott Jr. represents Los Angeles (and Brooklyn). Neil Taft is from Leland, North Carolina, and Winn Egan joins us from Salt Lake City.
Each of these men joins us with various levels of experience and expertise in being a grandfather and promoting the importance of grandfathers in the lives of our grandchildren and communities. This exercise is an enjoyable way to share insights, question our roles, and, most importantly, be able to suggest to each other how we can all be more loving and supportive of the grandchildren in our lives.
During our discussion, we discuss the following subjects:
"What do grandchildren want and need?" - Winn Egan "What have you learned from your grandchildren?" - Frank Pomata "Creating a lasting, meaningful connection" - Neil Taft "Watching your kids...parent! How do you handle their style vs your style?" - James Lott JrYou will enjoy the fun we have and our almost instant connection as we focus on how grandfathers can support our grandchildren, our adult children, and their spouses. I have included links below for the episodes each man has participated in as one-on-one guests and how you can connect with James, Frank, Neil, and Winn.
Please share this conversation with friends and family who will enjoy hearing about these subjects and these gentlemen's wisdom.
LinksHere is the link to the episode that I recorded with Winn: https://cool-grandpa.us/2022/07/ep-89-being-an-example/
A great way to connect with Winn is by reading his fantastic blog, "Grandparenting on Purpose," which you can find at this link: https://www.grandparentingonpurpose.com/blog.
If you would like to order his book, you can do so by clicking this link: https://www.amazon.com/Grandparenting-Purpose-Activities-Traditions-Grandchildren/dp/1949165256?ccs_id=622be96c-7e23-4cf2-891b-c3c9326180b8
Here is the link for the latest episode that I had with Frank Pomata: https://cool-grandpa.us/2023/05/ep-130-permission-to-be-creative/
Frank would also like to connect with you on LinkedIn, and you can find his profile here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankpomata/
Click on this link to listen to my latest podcast with James Lott, Jr.: https://cool-grandpa.us/2022/09/ep-96-being-a-role-model/.
James "Popa Jamie" Lott, Jr. can be found at JLJ Media: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJbunerNsVDOMLCrInkAzow.
You can subscribe to the "Really! I'm A Grandparent" podcast on YouTube and other podcast service providers: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=really!+i%27m+a+grandparent.
James Lott Jr's other website is https://alottofhelp.wordpress.com/
You can read Neil's blog at: https://www.caringgrandparents.com/
If you would like to order Neil's book, "Good To Great Grandparenting," you can do so by clicking HERE
I invite you to join me at Grandparents Week by clicking this link: https://training.grandparentsacademy.com/a/2147832178/ikxv5HFd.
If you would like to watch this conversation on YouTube, you can click on this link: https://youtu.be/dAxdwOb16E8.
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