The Cool Grandpa Podcast Podcast By Greg Payne cover art

The Cool Grandpa Podcast

The Cool Grandpa Podcast

By: Greg Payne
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This podcast is about the influence that Cool Grandpa's can have on their grandchildren and families. This podcast contains great stories about the influence that grandpas have had on their grandchildren. We also interview grandpas to learn how they are developing and maintaining powerful connections with their grandchildren.Copyright 2020 Relationships Social Sciences
Episodes
  • Love Travels: How To Stay Connected with Helen Ellis EP - 259

    Love Travels: How To Stay Connected with Helen Ellis EP - 259
    Mar 27 2026
    Episode Summary In this episode of The Cool Grandpa Podcast, I sit down with Helen Ellis, author and researcher specializing in distance families—families spread across cities, countries, and continents. Drawing from her personal experience and groundbreaking research, Helen shares how grandfathers can build meaningful, lasting relationships with their grandchildren—even when separated by thousands of miles and multiple time zones. From practical strategies to emotional truths, this conversation explores how intentionality, empathy, and consistency can transform distance into deeper connection. Key Takeaways Distance doesn't weaken relationships—lack of intentionality does Grandfathers play a powerful (often unseen) emotional role in family connections Small, consistent efforts matter more than grand gestures Adult children are the "gatekeepers" of connection in distance families Grandchildren often carry deep, lifelong memories of their grandparents—whether expressed or not Technology is a tool, but presence and effort are what truly matter Families with added challenges (ADHD, disabilities, etc.) require empathy, not assumptions Topics Covered What defines a "distance family" The different types of distance grandparenting situations The role of grandfathers vs. grandmothers Emotional realities of long-distance relationships Insights from adult grandchildren "Squirreled away love depositories" (lasting memories) Supporting grandchildren with additional needs from afar The importance of empathy across generations Building a legacy despite physical distance Resources & Links Helen Ellis's work on Distance Families: https://www.distancefamilies.com/ Her book series: Being a Distance Grandparent: https://www.distancefamilies.com/being-a-distance-grandparent2.html Being a Distance Son or Daughter: https://www.distancefamilies.com/being-a-distance-son-or-daughter2.html Being a Distance Grandchild: https://www.distancefamilies.com/being-a-distance-grandchild1.html Follow Helen by using this link: https://www.distancefamilies.com/follow.html Support the show: Cool Grandpa Bookstore: https://cool-grandpa.us/shop/ Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/coolgrandpa Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/QX6Xs76OZXM
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    54 mins
  • Aging in Place with Erica Sell EP-258

    Aging in Place with Erica Sell EP-258
    Mar 20 2026
    Episode Overview Many grandparents want to stay in their homes as long as possible—but most families only begin planning when a medical crisis forces the issue. In Part 1 of this conversation, I sit down with Erica Sell, founder of Harmony Home Medical, about how proactive planning and smart home design can help older adults maintain independence and dignity. Erica shares how growing up around the medical equipment industry—and a family emergency—led her to create a different approach: helping families understand all their options rather than limiting them to what insurance covers. This episode explores the world of aging-in-place design, innovative mobility equipment, and practical solutions families can implement today. Key Topics Discussed Why Families Often Plan Too Late Most aging-in-place decisions happen during crisis situations Why proactive planning starting in your 50s can prevent major problems The importance of universal design in home remodeling The Most Common Home Safety Risks Why the bathroom is the #1 location for falls Simple solutions that improve safety without major renovations Products that bridge the gap between independence and full remodeling How Insurance Limits Equipment Choices Medicare reimbursement cuts over the past 15+ years Why many helpful products aren't covered The importance of empowering families to understand all available options Innovations in Mobility and Home Equipment Lightweight power chairs dropping from 99 pounds to 26 pounds Hospital beds that look like furniture Technology is improving comfort and accessibility A Real Story of Independence How the right lift allowed an elderly couple to continue caring for each other at home Why equipment education can dramatically improve the quality of life Actionable Takeaways for Listeners ✔ Start thinking about accessibility earlier than you think you need to ✔ Consider universal design when remodeling your home ✔ Focus on the key mobility zones: Bedroom Bathroom Entryways Favorite chair areas ✔ Work with professionals rather than guessing when buying medical equipment ✔ Explore equipment options beyond what insurance provides Links and Resources Use this link to learn more about Erica and Harmony Home Medical: https://harmonyhomemedical.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/lHr3haJ5DtY
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    30 mins
  • The Grandparenting Blueprint: With Richard Eyre EP - 257

    The Grandparenting Blueprint: With Richard Eyre EP - 257
    Mar 13 2026
    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 mins
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