エピソード

  • The Grandparenting Blueprint: With Richard Eyre EP - 257
    2026/03/13
    Summary: In this episode of The Cool Grandpa Podcast, I welcome returning guest Richard Eyre to discuss his latest book, The Grandparenting Blueprint. Together, we explore how grandparents can intentionally build meaningful relationships with their grandchildren by sharing wisdom, stories, and what Richard calls "Grandfather's Secrets." Richard explains how shifting from lectures and advice to storytelling and interactive conversations opened the door to deeper engagement with his own grandchildren. Even more unique—23 of his grandkids helped write the book, contributing their own reflections and experiences. Greg and Richard also discuss: Why grandparenting is a completely different role from parenting The importance of developing your own "life lessons" to pass down How storytelling and case studies help children internalize values Why age 8 is often the right time to begin deeper conversations The surprising power of memorization, discussion, and family dialogue How grandparents can be champions and encouragers rather than disciplinarians If you want to be more intentional about the legacy you leave for your grandchildren, this conversation will give you practical tools and inspiration to get started. Key Takeaways from the Episode 1️⃣ Grandparenting is a different role than parenting While parenting is tactical and focused on day-to-day responsibilities, grandparenting allows you to step back and focus on encouragement, perspective, and wisdom. 2️⃣ Your "life lessons" may be the most valuable gift you give Richard challenges grandparents to identify 10 key life lessons they want their grandchildren to remember and pass down as part of their legacy. 3️⃣ Stories work better than lectures Kids respond better when lessons come through stories, discussions, and real experiences rather than formal advice or lectures. 4️⃣ Grandkids helped write the book Richard invited 23 of his grandchildren to contribute their own stories and reflections, creating a truly multi-generational book. 5️⃣ Grandparents can be the family's greatest encouragers Unlike parents who must discipline and manage daily life, grandparents have the freedom to be champions, cheerleaders, and supporters. Links and Resources: Here is the link to directly order your copy of The Grandparenting Blueprint: https://familius.com/book/the-grandparenting-blueprint/ Be sure to use code: EYREFRIEND Here is the link to Richard and Linda's website, Values Parenting: https://valuesparenting.com/ 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/DhN8a2cRK14
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    37 分
  • From Author to Entrepreneur: Kevin Hall's Journey EP - 256
    2026/03/06
    Episode Summary What happens when a retired programmer decides he's not finished building? In this powerful and practical conversation, I welcome back author and marketing mentor Kevin M Hall to discuss: Reinventing yourself after retirement Building an author platform from scratch Marketing books without spending thousands Navigating AI in publishing The courage to ask (because when you don't ask, the answer is always no) And what 50 years of marriage can teach us about grace and love Kevin shares real-world strategies from his upcoming book Book Marketing on a Budget and gives listeners a heartfelt preview of his newest project, Grace and Love: A Marriage Outtakes, Family Bloopers and 50 Years of Heartwarming Moments. This episode is part practical masterclass, part legacy conversation, and fully aligned with what The Cool Grandpa Podcast is all about — building something meaningful in the second half of life. 💡 Key Takeaways Retirement is not the end; it's an opportunity to reinvent. Marketing is storytelling, not bragging. You don't need thousands of dollars to build book sales. Community beats "masterclasses" every time. AI is reshaping publishing, but organic growth still wins. Legacy writing gives your grandchildren something permanent. When you don't ask, the answer is always no. 🎯 Action Items for Listeners If you're writing, join one free author community this week. Add your book (or your "future book") to your email signature. Reach out to one podcast or alumni group and ask to share your story. Start writing one legacy story for your grandchildren. Remember: You're not selling — you're serving. 📢 Call to Action If this episode encouraged you: Subscribe to The Cool Grandpa Podcast Share this episode with someone writing their first book Leave a review — it helps grow the Cool Grandpa community Visit Kevin at Kevin-Hall.com to connect and learn more Links and Resources Use this link to listen to Kevin's and mine's first conversation: https://cool-grandpa.us/2025/05/01/writing-for-legacy-a-grandfathers-perspective-with-kevin-hall-ep-228/ Check out Kevin's website using this link: https://kevin-hall.com/ Here is the link for Book Launchers: https://booklaunchers.com/ Author Talk Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmQ6-7yys-9ifqdGm6eydgA Here are the links to Author Nation: https://www.authornation.live/ and Dale Roberts: https://linktr.ee/selfpubwithdale Buy Me a Coffee using this link: https://buymeacoffee.com/coolgrandpa Cool Grandpa merchandise store: https://cool-grandpa.us/shop/ You can watch this fun conversation on YouTube using this link: https://youtu.be/KYS9mvSMe1c
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    56 分
  • Transitions Are the Curriculum EP - 255
    2026/02/27
    🎙 The Magic of Transitions In this episode of The Cool Grandpa Podcast, I explore the theme of transitions in life, particularly focusing on the journey from fatherhood to grandfatherhood and the responsibilities that come with these roles. My observations delve into the emotional and relational aspects of these transitions, emphasizing the importance of embracing new identities and the role of mentorship in guiding younger generations. T In this reflective solo episode, I also explore the truth every man eventually faces: Transitions are inevitable. From boy to man. From son to father. From father to grandfather. From ambition to legacy. Each stage requires us to let go of one identity and step courageously into another. In this conversation, we unpack: Why transitions feel uncomfortable (even when they're good) How adopting two young boys reshaped fatherhood and identity Why grandfatherhood is an elevation—not a downgrade How career shifts mirror personal identity shifts The hidden gift inside every life transition Why resisting change creates more suffering than the change itself This episode is about becoming, not clinging. 🧭 Key Themes 1️⃣ Becoming a Man Is Not Automatic Manhood is not an age. It's a responsibility. And many men are still navigating unfinished transitions from boyhood. 2️⃣ Fatherhood Changes Your Center of Gravity When you adopt a child, biology is replaced by choice. Choosing fatherhood is one of the most powerful transitions a man can experience. It shifts ambition into stewardship. It rewires purpose into protection. 3️⃣ Grandfatherhood Is a Strategic Role You are no longer building your résumé. You are building your legacy. Presence becomes more powerful than performance. 4️⃣ Career Transitions Mirror Identity Transitions Student → Professional → Leader → Mentor → Elder. Every career shift forces the same question: Who am I now? 5️⃣ The Mindset Shift Transitions = Loss + Opportunity. What we lose: Familiarity Status Certainty What we gain: Depth Wisdom Legacy Freedom Transitions are not interruptions. They are the curriculum. 🎯 ACTION ITEMS FOR YOU 1️⃣ Reflect Identify three major transitions in your life. What did each require you to release? What did each give you in return? 2️⃣ Initiate Have one conversation this week: With your son about becoming a man. With your adult child about fatherhood. With your grandchild, about a story from your past.
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    41 分
  • An Understanding Heart For Grandparents EP - 254
    2026/02/20
    🧭 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 分
  • Presence Over Pressure: A Cool Grandpa Lesson EP - 253
    2026/02/13
    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 分
  • The Grandpa Effect: Belief, Confidence & Legacy EP -252
    2026/02/06
    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 分
  • Skip Gen Travel with Stefanie Shackelford EP - 251
    2026/01/30
    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 分
  • Raising Tomorrow with Kepler Knott - EP 250
    2026/01/16
    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 分