Épisodes

  • An Understanding Heart For Grandparents EP - 254
    Feb 20 2026
    🧭 Episode Summary In this solo episode of The Cool Grandpa Podcast, I explore insights from Dan Miller's book An Understanding Heart and apply them to modern grandfatherhood. Greg shares three powerful themes—listening as a legacy skill, curiosity over correction, and emotional presence in a distracted world—along with personal stories and practical steps grandfathers can use today to deepen relationships with their grandchildren. 👂 Listening as a Legacy Skill Listening isn't passive—it's an active gift that teaches empathy and builds lifelong connections. I reflect on the adults in my childhood who truly listened and how that shaped me to have an understanding heart. 🌉 Curiosity Over Correction Curiosity builds bridges; correction builds walls. I encourage grandfathers to ask reflective questions instead of jumping in with advice, especially with young children and teens. Show them that YOU offer them an understanding heart. 🧭 Emotional Presence in a Distracted World Phones, schedules, and multitasking compete for attention—but presence is what grandchildren crave. I share stories of grandparents who modeled full presence and a powerful personal memory of a long road trip with my grandfather, who truly had an understanding heart. 🛠️ Practical Steps for Cool Grandpas Follow the 2:1 rule—listen twice as much as you speak Ask one curious question in every conversation Pause before giving advice and ask if advice is wanted Mirror emotions: "That sounds exciting" or "That sounds hard." Schedule intentional one-on-one time with each grandchild 💡 Reflection Question What does your grandchild need from you right now—advice or understanding? 🚀 A Call to Action: 👴 For Grandfathers Practice listening without interrupting this week. Notice what you learn about your grandchildren's inner world. 👨‍👧 For Fathers Ask one curious question today that you've never asked before—and observe how your child responds. 📚 Resources Mentioned An Understanding Heart by Dan Miller, use this link to order this treasured book: https://www.48days.com/product/an-understanding-heart/ Here is the link to that amazing episode I had with my mentor, Dan Miller: https://cool-grandpa.us/2021/09/10/ep-48-growing-creativity-with-grandchildren/ Buy Me a Coffee by using this link: https://buymeacoffee.com/coolgrandpa Cool Grandpa merchandise store: https://cool-grandpa.us/shop/ You can watch this fun conversation on YouTube by using this link: https://youtu.be/B_ceCsH-zss
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    25 min
  • Presence Over Pressure: A Cool Grandpa Lesson EP - 253
    Feb 13 2026
    Summary In this episode of the Cool Grandpa Podcast, I discuss the importance of communication and listening in building meaningful connections with grandchildren. I emphasizes that presence is more powerful than pressure and introduces the 'Three, Two, One Grandpa Rule' to enhance interactions. The episode highlights the significance of asking questions, reflecting on conversations, and creating a safe space for grandchildren to express themselves. Key Takeaways 🧩1. Presence Beats Pressure Just being calm and physically present can create a sense of safety and trust for grandchildren—even more than advice or solutions. 🗣️ 2. Advice Shuts Doors—Questions Open Them Open-ended questions spark curiosity and connection, triggering dopamine and encouraging deeper conversation. ⏸️ 3. Silence Is Leadership Pausing before responding gives emotions time to breathe and shows grandchildren they matter. 🔢 4. The Cool Grandpa 3-2-1 Rule 3 seconds of pause → 2 reflections → 1 question This simple rhythm builds trust, encourages honesty, and avoids lecturing. ❤️ 5. Kids Remember How Safe They Felt Your grandchildren won't remember every word—but they will remember the emotional safety you created. The Cool Grandpa Challenge This week: Pause for 3 seconds Reflect twice Ask one open-ended question Then notice what changes in your conversations. Free Resource and Links Download the Cool Grandpa 3-2-1 Reflection Worksheet to practice this method with your grandchildren and family. https://cool-grandpa.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Cool-Grandpa-–-3-2-1-Worksheet.pdf Here is the link to Codie Sanchez's podcast that I referenced: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3BUlZ4AsOXGwdItaH6ozy7. The title of her episode is "Top Rabling: The 3-2-1 Speaking Trick That Makes You Sound Like a CEO." You can watch this fun conversation on YouTube by using this link: https://youtu.be/G3c89GznTYs I would appreciate it if you could support the show. You can support the show through "Buy me a Coffee" by donating a few dollars HERE. (https://buymeacoffee.com/coolgrandpa) Here is a link to my webstore: https://cool-grandpa.us/shop/
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    27 min
  • The Grandpa Effect: Belief, Confidence & Legacy EP -252
    Feb 6 2026
    What do your grandchildren believe about themselves because of you? In this solo episode of The Cool Grandpa Podcast, I draw on the timeless wisdom from Chapter One of The Magic of Thinking Big and apply it to one of the most underestimated leadership roles in a child's life: the role of a grandfather. David Schwartz opens his book with a bold claim—success begins with belief. Not intelligence. Not talent. Belief. And when you view that idea through the lens of grandfatherhood, it raises an important question: What beliefs are our grandchildren borrowing from us—intentionally or unintentionally? Using relatable stories (including toddlers, cookies, and baby gates), classroom experience, and real-life grandparent moments, I explore how belief is formed long before evidence appears—and why grandparents are often the safest, most influential voices in shaping a child's self-image. In this episode, you'll explore: Why belief often comes before evidence for children—and why that matters How grandchildren absorb more than our words: tone, reactions, expectations The difference between praising outcomes and speaking identity Why modeling confidence matters more than modeling perfection How negative self-talk ("I'm terrible at this") quietly sets limits for kids Why asking better questions builds independence better than quick fixes What it really means to raise their thinking, not your voice This episode isn't about being a perfect grandparent. It's about being an intentional one—someone who leaves grandchildren with confidence, courage, and belief that extends far beyond childhood. 🔑 Key Takeaways Grandchildren borrow belief from the adults they trust most Confidence is caught more than it is taught Words—especially casual ones—shape lifelong self-image Encouragement grows confidence far better than correction One consistent, belief-building adult can change a child's trajectory 📄 Free Companion Resource Here is your free reflection guide created specifically for this episode: 🧠 Think Big, Grandpa – A Reflection Guide A simple, printable worksheet to help you: Reflect on the beliefs you're reinforcing Reset how you praise, correct, and encourage Speak belief intentionally into your grandchild's life Links Click HERE for your free download or use this link: https://cool-grandpa.us/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Cool_Grandpa_Think_Big_Workshop_Guide_WITH_LOGO.pdf
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    21 min
  • Skip Gen Travel with Stefanie Shackelford EP - 251
    Jan 30 2026
    Episode Summary In this episode of The Cool Grandpa Podcast, I sit down with Stefanie Shackelford, founder of Odyssey Travel, to explore how travel has evolved—and why experienced travel advisors matter more than ever, especially for grandparents planning meaningful trips with their grandchildren. With over 40 years in the travel industry, Stefanie shares how travel planning has shifted from handwritten tickets and phone-book-sized fare manuals to today's digital-first world—while explaining what technology still can't replace: human insight, experience, and relationships. Together, we dive into: The hidden value of working with a professional travel advisor How multi-generational and "skip-gen" travel is reshaping family experiences Why grandparents are uniquely positioned to create unforgettable travel memories How travel agents personalize trips based on family dynamics, budgets, and kids' ages The growing appeal of national parks, cruises, trains, and cultural experiences What to look for when choosing a travel agency—and red flags to avoid Why travel insurance matters more today than ever This conversation is a must-listen for grandparents who want to travel smarter, reduce stress, and build deeper bonds with their grandchildren through shared experiences. If you're a grandparent dreaming about meaningful trips with your grandkids—but don't want the stress of planning—this episode is for you. 👉 Listen now and discover how experienced travel advisors help grandparents create unforgettable, age-appropriate adventures that build lifelong memories. Links Click on this link to visit Odessy Travel: https://www.team-odyssey.com/ Here is Stefanie's email address: sjs@team-odyssey.com You can use this phone number to reach out to Stefanie and Odessy Travel: 707-343-7112 You can watch this fun conversation on YouTube by using this link: https://youtu.be/wfWvWW3Dg1o I would appreciate it if you could support the show. You can support the show through "Buy me a Coffee" and donate a few dollars by clicking HERE. (https://buymeacoffee.com/coolgrandpa) Here is a link to my webstore: https://cool-grandpa.us/shop/
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    44 min
  • Raising Tomorrow with Kepler Knott - EP 250
    Jan 16 2026
    Episode Summary: In this episode of The Cool Grandpa Podcast, I sit down with author, father, and former tech entrepreneur Kepler Knott to explore what it means to raise kids in an age of rapid change. Drawing from his book Raising Tomorrow: Talks to Prepare Our Kids for What Lies Ahead, Kepler shares why adaptation, resilience, and values matter more than ever—and how parents and grandparents can guide kids without hovering over them. Together, we discuss how to talk with kids (not at them) about meaning, work, money, technology, relationships, and values. The conversation highlights the unique and powerful role grandparents play in a child's life, offering wisdom, perspective, and unconditional support that kids often hear differently than from parents. This episode is a practical, thoughtful guide for fathers, grandfathers, mothers, and grandmothers who want to raise grounded, resilient kids while preparing them for a future none of us fully understands. Key Topics Covered: Why adaptation and resilience are essential life skills Helping kids develop values through modeling, not lectures The difference between happiness and contentment Technology, attention, and the battle for our kids' focus Teaching money as "stored energy" in a digital world Why boredom, independence, and responsibility still matter How grandparents uniquely influence grandchildren Turning everyday moments into meaningful conversations 🎯 Call to Action for Fathers Fathers: If you're navigating tough conversations about values, technology, work, or identity with your kids, Raising Tomorrow gives you a practical framework to prepare—not preach. Pick one chapter, read it alongside your child, and use it as a starting point for conversations that build trust, resilience, and independent thinking. 🎯 Call to Action for Grandfathers Grandfathers: Your role matters more than you may realize. Kids often hear wisdom differently from grandparents—without the pressure or tension of daily parenting. Raising Tomorrow is a powerful tool to help you guide your grandchildren with perspective, patience, and grace. Use it to reinforce values, spark meaningful talks, and support the parents you love. Links: 👉 Learn more and explore the book at RaisingTomorrow.org You can use this email address to reach out to Kepler: connect@raisingtomorrow.org Here is the link to follow Kepler on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RaisingTomorrowCommunity We talked about and referenced "Moore's Law" about technological advancement. Here is the Wikipedia link about that law. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moore%27s_law We both mentioned the book The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt. Here is the Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/Anxious-Generation-Rewiring-Childhood-Epidemic/dp/B0C9N2L56X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2H8M4SK2LVZAW&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.AYLrmEEAErPNx2RGaRJxhOElKKHk5Bxo4woqlvzz-Zl3Nigo6O4PUOIbeK2xnmdbSNLrSJdplfViZYmOC7k_17z-dnG0hWIAMbE7JrzkDaAp8Q8G7ao1enL8d_YmbK4_Cc_-ZGVSa1EglmXK88K0vTgLUqvpQkWntGt-D2CB3aNbzdTEtwxzK1-yR8z8MM33nyESImFRxSAtRzQI2wyFp6ZKhPCO47wyB1eXuGwHUoA.OkSBZteDUVy3GIBReLNavBQDrAB2limybmuAUJVhw9g&dib_tag=se&keywords=anxious+generation+book&qid=1768444451&sprefix=anx%2Caps%2C166&sr=8-1 You can watch this fun conversation on YouTube by using this link: https://youtu.be/-XCyGvQXEJg I would appreciate it if you could support the show. You can support the show through "Buy me a Coffee" and donate a few dollars by clicking HERE. (https://buymeacoffee.com/coolgrandpa) Here is a link to my webstore: https://cool-grandpa.us/shop/
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    50 min
  • Navigating Senior Living with Jeannie Duckworth EP - 249
    Jan 9 2026
    Summary: Choosing senior living for a loved one can feel overwhelming, emotional, and deeply personal. In this episode of The Cool Grandpa Podcast, I sit down with Jeannie Duckworth, co-founder of Blue Magnolia Senior Living Advisors, to unpack what families really need to know when navigating senior care options. Jeannie shares her journey into senior living, shaped by years of hands-on experience inside communities and a deep passion for advocacy. She explains that Blue Magnolia Senior Living Advisors was built to serve families first—offering free, personalized guidance while helping seniors find safe, supportive environments where they can truly thrive. Together, we explore: How families know when "it's time" to consider senior living Common misconceptions about assisted living and memory care Why touring communities early can reduce stress and guilt The emotional side of transitions — for seniors and their families How the right environment can restore independence and dignity What grandparents and adult children should look for (and avoid) when choosing care This conversation is honest, practical, and deeply human — offering reassurance that no family has to navigate these decisions alone. Whether you're a grandparent planning ahead or a family member supporting aging parents, this episode provides clarity, comfort, and confidence. Key Takeaways: Jeannie has a deep passion for working with seniors, stemming from her childhood experiences. Long-term care insurance is essential for everyone, regardless of income level. Personalized care is crucial in the senior living referral process. Families often struggle with communication regarding senior care decisions. Home care can be more expensive than assisted living options. Planning for senior care should start early to avoid last-minute decisions. Seniors want to maintain their independence and engage in activities they love. Jeannie emphasizes the importance of finding a community that fits the individual needs of seniors. Blue Magnolia Senior Living Advisors prioritize seniors' well-being over profit, ensuring they receive the best care. Links and other information: Click on this link to visit Blue Magnolia Senior Living Advisors: https://www.bluemagsla.com/ Jeannie's direct email is: jeannie@bluemagsla.com To call Jeannie directly, you can use either phone number, 1-209-640-2433 (CA) or 1-615-806-1973 (TN) You can watch this fun conversation on YouTube by using this link: https://youtu.be/IAc8VagnhGs I would appreciate it if you could support the show. You can support the show through "Buy me a Coffee" and donate a few dollars by clicking HERE. (https://buymeacoffee.com/coolgrandpa) Here is a link to my webstore: https://cool-grandpa.us/shop/
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    54 min
  • Leadership Lessons from Santa Claus EP - 248
    Dec 19 2025
    Show Notes: Santa Claus isn't just a holiday icon—he's a world-class leader. In this episode of The Cool Grandpa Podcast, I explore four powerful leadership traits modeled by Santa Claus and how grandparents, parents, and team leaders can apply them both at home and at work. Drawing from real-life experiences, generational insights, and leadership wisdom, this conversation reminds us that leadership is less about titles and more about vision, trust, consistency, and joyful service. Whether you're guiding your family, leading a team at work, or mentoring others, these Santa-inspired leadership lessons offer a meaningful framework as we head into a new year. lead-like-santa Episode Highlights: 🎄 Trait 1: Vision Casting — Leading with Clarity and Hope Santa's mission is simple and universally understood: spread joy, build connection, and create magic. I discuss how grandfathers can: Define a clear family vision Adapt traditions across generations Serve as an emotional anchor during the holidays And how leaders can: Re-state mission and purpose often Keep the "why" front and center Lead hard conversations with optimism, lead-like-santa 🎄 Trait 2: Empowering the Team — Trusting the Elves Santa trusts his elves with responsibility and autonomy. Applications include: Letting grandchildren participate and problem-solve Teaching skills, then stepping back Asking kids (and employees) for their ideas In the workplace: Delegating ownership Coaching instead of micromanaging Celebrating initiative and effort, like Santa 🎄 Trait 3: Consistency of Character — Always Showing Up Santa shows up the same way every year, without fail. I explore: Showing up for milestone moments Being emotionally consistent Maintaining rituals and traditions At work: Keeping your word Being predictable and steady Leading calmly through pressure and change, like Santa 🎄 Trait 4: Joyful Servant Leadership — Leading with Generosity Santa leads with joy, kindness, and service. This includes: Laughing often with grandchildren Entering their world Building connection through fun Professionally: Publicly celebrating wins Serving your team in practical ways Being generous with praise and encouragement leads like Santa Key Takeaways Leadership begins with clarity of vision Trust and empowerment build confidence at every age Consistency creates safety and credibility Joy and generosity are leadership multipliers Influence, heart, and presence matter more than perfection Links Click on this link to visit my online store: https://cool-grandpa.us/shop/
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    28 min
  • Grandparenting in the Roman Empire with Dr. Lisa Brunet EP - 247
    Dec 5 2025
    Summary In this episode, I talk with historian Lisa Brunet, whose work explores the hidden world of grandparents in ancient Rome. Together, we unpack what grandparenting looked like 2,000 years ago—how elders shaped family identity, cared for young children, preserved memory through storytelling, and passed on family and cultural traditions. While grandmothers often stepped into hands-on roles, grandfathers frequently became the family's historians and memory keepers—sometimes proudly seeing themselves in a toddler learning to speak or scribble. Lisa explains how Roman law, marriage customs, early Christianity, and even mobility during empire expansion shaped what grandparenting meant—and how echoes of those patterns still exist today. This conversation bridges centuries to ask one simple question: What can modern grandparents learn from ancient ones? Lisa also shares updates on her upcoming two books, in which her research will continue to open windows into the emotional lives of ancient families. Takeaways Historically, people became grandparents at a younger age. Currently, individuals are older when they become grandparents. Grandfathers now spend almost 20 years with their grandchildren. The role of grandparents has evolved. The societal perception of aging is changing. Grandparents' ages influence family dynamics. Their grandparents' age shapes grandchildren's experience. Understanding these shifts can inform social policies. Links: Lisa's full thesis on Roman grandparents: https://research.manchester.ac.uk/en/studentTheses/grandparents-in-the-roman-empire-the-evidence-of-the-latin-west/ Follow Lisa's work and publications on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisabrunet/ Be sure to check out my store for fun and interesting gifts for you or the cool grandpa in your life. From now until January 22, all items in my bookstore are 30% off. https://cool-grandpa.us/shop/
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    52 min