The Gift of Understanding: A Grandfather’s Role in Autism - EP 217
Release Date: 02/07/2025
Understanding the Fourth Trimester with Sarah Trott - EP 238
The Cool Grandpa Podcast
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...
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Reading and Changing Futures with: Sean Webb - EP 237
The Cool Grandpa Podcast
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...
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The Magic of Grandparenting with Allan Kronzek - EP 236
The Cool Grandpa Podcast
In this episode of The Cool Grandpa Podcast, Greg chats with acclaimed magician and author Allan Kronzek. Allan shares the inspiration behind his book, Grandpa Magic, and how simple, playful magic tricks can help grandfathers create lasting connections with their grandchildren. Allan explains how magic is a tool for engagement, wonder, and even mentorship. Whether you’re performing napkin bunnies for toddlers or mind-reading acts with teens, there’s a trick for every age and ability. He also dives into how magic supports critical thinking, imagination, and intergenerational bonding. ...
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Inside the Mind of a Pregnant Father with Dr. Ed Stephens - EP 235
The Cool Grandpa Podcast
In this powerful follow-up episode, Dr. Ed Stephens returns to The Cool Grandpa Podcast to continue his candid conversation about men's emotional responses to pregnancy, birth, and fatherhood. Greg and Ed dive deep into the often-overlooked realities of paternal depression, miscarriages, and the emotional toll that fathers quietly carry during these life-changing moments. Dr. Stephens shares personal and professional insights from his decades as a psychiatrist, as well as his own experiences as a father and grandfather. From understanding "peripartum depression" in men to reclaiming the...
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Legacy & Networking: Wisdom from George Dubec - EP 234
The Cool Grandpa Podcast
In this episode of the Cool Grandpa podcast, Greg Payne and George Dubec discuss the evolving roles of grandparents, family values, and the changing landscape of relationships and parenting. They reflect on their own childhood experiences, the importance of family structure, and the lessons learned from their grandparents. The conversation also touches on the impact of societal changes on marriage and dating, as well as George's transition from engineering to networking and personal development. In this conversation, George Dubec shares insights on the realities of motivational speaking,...
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Good Grandpa: Ted Page's Journey from Blog to Book - EP 233
The Cool Grandpa Podcast
In this episode of the Cool Grandpa podcast, Ted Page discusses his journey in writing the Good Grandpa book, inspired by the stories and experiences of grandfathers he encountered through his blog. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling, the role of grandfathers in nurturing future generations, and the wisdom shared by various leaders, including the Dalai Lama. The conversation highlights the significance of active compassion and the impact of grandfathers in instilling values and life lessons in their grandchildren. In this conversation, Ted Page shares insights from his journey as...
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Helping Grandkids Graduate Without Debt With Jeannie Burlowski - EP 232
The Cool Grandpa Podcast
In this episode of the Cool Grandpa podcast, Jeannie Burlowski discusses how grandparents can effectively support their grandchildren's college finances. She emphasizes the importance of creative strategies for college savings, the impact of personal letters from grandparents, and the significance of career assessments in guiding students toward debt-free education. The conversation highlights practical steps grandparents can take to leave a lasting legacy and ensure their grandchildren's success in higher education. In this conversation, Jeannie Burlowski shares insights on how...
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Understanding Men's Mental Health with Dr. Ed Stephens - EP 231
The Cool Grandpa Podcast
In this episode, I speak with Dr. Ed Stephens about the evolving roles of fathers and grandfathers today. Dr. Stephens shares his deeply personal journey from corporate success to becoming a spiritual guide for men seeking purpose, presence, and legacy in their families. Key topics include: The power of authentic, present fathering How men transition into the grandfather role with impact Dr. Stephens' journey to founding Heart of the Father Studio How faith and mentorship build lasting generational change The unique influence grandfathers have on young men Whether you're a father,...
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Pulp, Prayer, and Plot Twists: Inside Jack LaFountain's World - EP 230
The Cool Grandpa Podcast
In this engaging conversation, Jack LaFountain shares his unique journey to becoming an author later in life, reflecting on his diverse experiences from military service to nursing and ministry. He discusses the joys and surprises of becoming a grandfather, the challenges of maintaining family relationships over distances, and the creative inspiration he draws from his family, particularly his grandson Brian. Jack elaborates on his writing process, the evolution of his book series, and the themes that resonate throughout his work, including the Man of God series, which offers a fresh take...
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Break the Bottle: Lessons from a Grandson, Marine, and Leader
The Cool Grandpa Podcast
In this powerful and heartfelt episode, I sit down with Michael Allison, a Marine veteran, author, and founder of the Adversity Academy, to explore a journey shaped by hardship, legacy, and purpose. From growing up in the rough neighborhoods of Miami after immigrating from Jamaica to becoming a decorated Marine and now a leadership coach, Michael shares how his two grandfathers—both named Vincent—influenced his values and resilience. Listeners will hear how formative life experiences, including time in Fallujah and setbacks in high school football, became catalysts for leadership...
info_outlineIn this week's episode, I explore an essential and often under-discussed topic: how grandfathers can navigate the challenges and rewards of having an autistic grandchild.
Key Topics Discussed:
- Adjusting Expectations:
- The emotional process of shifting expectations for a grandchild's future.
- Recognizing the grieving and acceptance stages.
- Finding new ways to celebrate achievements and milestones.
- Emotional and Psychological Challenges:
- Feeling helpless due to a lack of understanding or awareness.
- Overcoming generational and cultural differences in approaching autism.
- Learning new information to feel more empowered.
- Communication and Interaction Strategies:
- Understanding different social cues and responses from autistic grandchildren.
- Sensory sensitivities and how they impact shared experiences.
- Recognizing the difference between meltdowns and misbehavior.
- The Grandfather's Role in Family Support:
- How grandfathers can actively participate in their grandchild's care.
- Avoiding the feeling of being left out of key decisions.
- Balancing attention and affection between all grandchildren.
- Practical Considerations:
- Adapting parenting and grandparenting strategies for today's understanding of autism.
- Physical limitations and adjustments to activities.
- The evolving language around autism and support strategies.
Key Takeaway: Grandfathers have an essential role in their grandchildren's lives, even if their approach to bonding, communication, and activities differs from what was anticipated. They can build meaningful connections and support their families with education, patience, and an open heart.
Links
Here are some links to organizations that can help better understand and support grandchildren with autism.
https://www.verywellhealth.com/helping-grandparents-connect-259865
https://neurolaunch.com/autism-grandma/
https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/grandparents-importance-autism-kids/