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As the year draws to a close, the conversation centers around utilizing the New Year as an opportunity to cultivate strength and adaptability in young ones. This episode not only delves into personal anecdotes but also embraces biblical principles, weaving them into the foundational skills needed for coping with life's challenges. Throughout the discussion, Ben and Ian emphasize the importance of grandparents being actively involved in offering emotional support and creating a space of understanding for their grandkids. Ian suggests practical strategies and tips for instilling resilience, such as engaging in meaningful conversation, encouraging adaptability, and setting intentional moments for bonding. The duo also highlights the unique role that grandparents play in bridging generational gaps, ultimately guiding their grandchildren through both the old and new realities of life. Key Takeaways: New Year as a Catalyst: The New Year can be a perfect moment for grandparents to set goals around building resilience in grandchildren. Building Resilience: Grandparents have a unique opportunity to impart strength and adaptability, drawing from personal experiences and biblical teachings. Intergenerational Support: Being available and adaptable allows grandparents to provide a crucial support system amid life's trials. Faith and Resilience: Integrating biblical wisdom offers an additional layer of guidance, encouraging grandchildren to find strength in faith. Practical Involvement: Simple acts of sharing personal resilience stories and setting up activities can significantly impact grandchildren’s development. Notable Quotes: "A new year is always full of possibilities. You start with a clean slate... what do you want to do?" "Resilience is about the ability to bounce back... life isn't easy. It's hard raising kids. It's hard seeing grandkids go through things." "Words are powerful… speak life into their souls to build them up." "Change is part of life... as you’re getting older, you know change is happening to you both physically and mentally and spiritually." "Persevere as a grandparent… speak life and resilience, that could be the thing that stands the test of time Click here for more on Ian Barnett, National Grandparent Movement and extra resources. Episodes hosted by Ben McEachen from Hope 1032 in Sydney, Australia. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message (Message the GrandParenthood Team) or via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this festive episode of "Grandparenthood," Ben and Ian chat about the pivotal role of grandparents during Christmas. This episode dives into the seasonal joys and challenges that grandparents encounter during the holiday period, filled with warmth, generosity and not taking Christ out of Christmas.  Throughout the episode, Ian shares thoughtful perspectives on the importance of Christmas for grandparents, highlighting how it embodies hope, love, and community. Addressing the complexities of Christmas when family is distant or relationships are strained, Ian provides practical tips on maintaining connections, like using technology for virtual celebrations or creating new community-oriented traditions. Emphasizing faith as a linchpin for the holiday, the conversation touches on how grandparents can utilize Christmas as an opportunity to impart values and spiritual connections to their grandchildren. Explore the dynamic conversation that encapsulates making the most out of this magical season as a grandparent. Key Takeaways: Christmas is a season of hope, joy, and reflection, offering grandparents a special opportunity to impart love and traditions to their families. The importance of respecting unique journeys during the holidays; not all grandparents find this time joyous due to loss or distance from family. Practical strategies for embracing the Christmas spirit, such as community involvement and leveraging technology for remote family connections. The role of faith during the Christmas season, with a focus on the significance of Jesus' birth and the soul of the celebration. Creative ways grandparents can share in the magic of Christmas with their grandchildren, from traditional gatherings to playful activities. Notable Quotes: "Christmas really is a special time for everyone, because who you are as a grandparent is captured by all that Christmas is about." "I love watching my grandkids look at the lights and decorations; there's another magic that happens in their lives at that point."  "Christmas is about when love came down, and it's the best connection point for grandparents with their faith." "People are sitting at home thinking there was a day when people used to drop in. I wish we could have that day back." "It's not only about giving presents; it's about explaining why we do it—showing kindness, generosity, and love." Click here for more on Ian Barnett, National Grandparent Movement and extra resources. Episodes hosted by Ben McEachen from Hope 1032 in Sydney, Australia. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message (Message the GrandParenthood Team) or via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A podcast proudly produced by Hope Media - She Wasn’t Born Yesterday is hosted by Janet Evans, a senior advertising creative and Jenni Woodhouse a semi retired social worker. Join the discussion of being 40+ faaabulous on Facebook. About the Guest: Lyn Worsley is a renowned clinical psychologist and the director of the Resilience Centre. With nearly 30 years of experience, Lyn has contributed significantly to understanding and promoting mental health and resilience across various groups. Her approach often involves solution-oriented therapies, focusing on building resilience and leveraging existing strengths in individuals. Lyn is also recognised for developing the internationally acclaimed Resilience Doughnut model, which aims to identify and strengthen key resources within individuals and communities to enhance resilience. Key Takeaways: The "imaginary audience" phenomenon is crucial in understanding why adolescents are highly self-conscious and anxious about fitting in with peers. Resilience can be nurtured by identifying and leveraging three key resources from the Resilience Doughnut: personal competencies, social ecology, and overcoming adversity. Parents are encouraged to engage with their teens' interests, such as gaming or fashion, to foster better communication and connection. Anxiety is a common part of development, but when it impairs daily functioning, it may require intervention and professional support. Key indicators of anxiety disorders include withdrawal from social situations, circular thinking, and avoidance of school and activities. Notable Quotes: Lyn Worsley: "Anxiety is a symptom that there is something going on in the brain that's in conflict, and it's just trying to work out how to reconcile whatever that is." Lyn Worsley: "When they're recoiling, not wanting to go to school, or having circular thinking—that's when you need to be alerted." Lyn Worsley: "Medication can aid, but therapy should never be excluded for adolescent anxiety; they should work together." Lyn Worsley: "Resilience involves personal and social competence, navigating social ecologies, and going through adversity." Resources: The Resilience Centre Murdoch Children's Research Institute Black Dog Institute She Wasn’t Born Yesterday, hosted by Janet Evans, a senior advertising creative and Jenni Woodhouse a semi retired social worker Join the discussion of being 40+ faaabulous on Facebook. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ben and Ian explore the core question: should grandparents' homes be tech-free zones to provide a sanctuary from today's digital world? With a nuanced understanding of the role technology plays in modern family life, they share practical strategies for implementing tech-free environments during grandkids' visits, while also acknowledging the benefits of shared screen time. They offer insightful advice on setting boundaries, fostering real-world connections, and creating enchanting experiences reminiscent of simpler times before the digital revolution. Key Takeaways: Grandparents should aim to balance technology use with opportunities for real-world engagement and connection during visits. Intentional activities like games, outdoor adventures, and creative projects can help divert attention from screens and foster meaningful interactions. Technology isn't inherently evil, but the excessive reliance and lack of boundaries around it can pose challenges for family dynamics. Understanding the age-related differences in technology use is crucial for setting appropriate limits and expectations. Encourage activities that offer a "taste of heaven," highlighting the value of personal relationships and real-world experiences. Notable Quotes: "We need to dive into what to do about devices and screen time for our grandkids." "Technology is just another thing that's out there; it's how you engage with it." "You gotta actually think about what you're gonna do if it's not going to be devices." Click here for more on Ian Barnett, National Grandparent Movement and extra resources. Episodes hosted by Ben McEachen from Hope 1032 in Sydney, Australia. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message (Message the GrandParenthood Team) or via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode we delve into the pressures that affect the pursuit of hobbies during different life stages, looking at common obstacles such as family responsibilities and financial burdens. Ian reminisces about his affection for motorbikes and the influence of familial pressures on hobby pursuits. The discussion also reflects on rebounding into once-loved pastimes or adopting new ones in later life. Engaging in hobbies can be beneficial for self-care and mental wellness, and they encourage re-igniting past interests or exploring new ones. Furthermore, this episode underscores the potential for including grandchildren in hobbies, fostering intergenerational engagement through shared activities. Key Takeaways: Hobbies can significantly contribute to personal fulfillment and serve as a form of self-care, particularly for grandparents. Life responsibilities often interrupt hobbies during parenting years, yet retirement or grandparenting can be an ideal time to rediscover or establish new interests. Past hobbies, although set aside, can be reintroduced into one's current lifestyle, potentially enhancing family bonds, especially when shared with grandchildren. While exploring hobbies, it's essential to remain mindful that they do not become idols or negatively impact family relationships or financial health. Activities like watching movies, woodworking, or even just coffee outings with friends can qualify as hobbies that bring joy and community connection. Notable Quotes: "It's good to have something outside of that that either you just own or just really emphasizes who you are as a person." "There is life outside of golf. I know it's hard to believe." "Find those interests and enjoy them and even share them with someone." "A hobby can become an idol. And that can come at the expense of your family, your marriage." "There's always something to talk about. There's something different, and they look forward to it. That's the other thing about a hobby." Click here for more on Ian Barnett, National Grandparent Movement and extra resources. Episodes hosted by Ben McEachen from Hope 1032 in Sydney, Australia. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message (Message the GrandParenthood Team) or via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marriage counseling remains crucial even for older couples, as life involves various seasons requiring adaptation and learning. This episode delves into resources available for grandparents, including relationship counseling programs by Anglicare and insightful works by authors like Gary Chapman. Through candid anecdotes and practical advice, Ben and Ian highlight the significance of addressing marital issues proactively, encouraging listeners to view counseling as a tool for nurturing stronger bonds rather than merely solving problems. Key Takeaways: Marriage can have distinct seasons, and older couples often face unique challenges requiring renewed attention to their relationships. Professional counseling can be beneficial at any life stage, including grandparenting, to maintain and improve marital health. Open communication and addressing marital issues before they escalate are vital in preserving relationship health over time. Resources such as Gary Chapman’s "The Four Seasons of Marriage" and programs by Anglicare can be instrumental for grandparents looking to enhance their marital relationships. The importance of having honest, heartfelt conversations about relationship challenges with partners is emphasized throughout the episode. Notable Quotes: "I would encourage people to actually check those things out. There's also books about how you navigate each season of married life." "If you don't set aside time, sadly, issues just get glossed over until a point in time happens." "When you look in the mirror and when you start to reflect or analyze, you may have to change. Therein lies the problem." "You might have your act together better than you used to because wisdom matters and relationships matter." "We might have our act together, but that doesn't somehow mean it gets easier with time." Click here for more on Ian Barnett, National Grandparent Movement and extra resources. Episodes hosted by Ben McEachen from Hope 1032 in Sydney, Australia. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message (Message the GrandParenthood Team) or via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gayle Hardiman has been a dedicated account manager in the sponsorship sales team at Hope Media, a Christian community radio station in Sydney, serving faithfully for over 22 years. With a keen focus on spirituality and community involvement, Gayle is on the brink of entering a new season of her life as she seeks to transition from her long-term career into roles that align with her calling for chaplaincy. Gayle balances her professional life with being a deeply involved grandmother of ten, showing exemplary dedication both in her career and her personal life. As Gayle prepares to enter a "new season" of her life, she shares her experiences and emotions around transitioning away from a long-standing career at Hope Media. The conversation revolves around how working grandparents like Gayle balance their professional commitments with active family life, especially in nurturing relationships with their grandchildren. Click here for more on Ian Barnett, National Grandparent Movement and extra resources. Episodes hosted by Ben McEachen from Hope 1032 in Sydney, Australia. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message (Message the GrandParenthood Team) or via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week we delve into the significance of sustaining a vibrant spiritual life, especially for grandparents, Ian conveys compelling parallels between physical and spiritual well-being, emphasizing the perpetual journey of faith. This episode offers listeners an insightful exploration of maintaining one's spiritual growth while embracing the unique challenges and rewards of grandparenting. Click here for more on Ian Barnett, National Grandparent Movement and extra resources. Episodes hosted by Ben McEachen from Hope 1032 in Sydney, Australia. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message (Message the GrandParenthood Team) or via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Ben for this episode of "Grandparenthood," recorded live at the National Grandparent Conference in Sydney. Ben and the team chat with real grandparents at the conference about their experiences and what they've learned. Click here for more on Ian Barnett, National Grandparent Movement and extra resources. Episodes hosted by Ben McEachen from Hope 1032 in Sydney, Australia. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message (Message the GrandParenthood Team) or via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Ben for this episode of "Grandparenthood," recorded live at the National Grandparent Conference in Sydney. Ben and the team chat with real grandparents at the conference about their experiences and what they've learned. Click here for more on Ian Barnett, National Grandparent Movement and extra resources. Episodes hosted by Ben McEachen from Hope 1032 in Sydney, Australia. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message (Message the GrandParenthood Team) or via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Ben for this episode of "Grandparenthood," recorded live at the National Grandparent Conference in Sydney. Ben leads a panel discussion with esteemed guests like Reverend Professor Elizabeth McKinley, Dr. Kim Oates, Stuart Piggin, and Simon Manchester and our own Ian Barnett. This episode dives deep into the significance of intergenerational faith, touching on sensitive topics like gender and same-sex issues, and challenges some grandparents face in accessing their grandchildren. Click here for more on Ian Barnett, National Grandparent Movement and extra resources. Episodes hosted by Ben McEachen from Hope 1032 in Sydney, Australia. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message (Message the GrandParenthood Team) or via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

She Wasn’t Born Yesterday (SWBY), hosted by Janet Evans, a senior advertising creative and Jenni Woodhouse a semi retired social worker Follow the podcast on Spotify and Apple Pods. Join the discussion (with 1300 members!!) of being 40+ faaabulous on Facebook.   About the Guest: Dr. Jenny Brown is a highly respected clinical couple and family therapist with over 35 years of experience, specializing in family systems theory. She holds a PhD in social science and has dedicated her career to helping individuals navigate complex family dynamics. Dr. Brown is also an accomplished author and a key figure at the Family Systems Institute, where she contributes to training mental health professionals. Her work focuses on applying scientific theory to real-world relationship challenges, particularly emphasizing self-differentiation and emotional maturity. Key Takeaways: Self-Differentiation is Essential: Emphasizes the importance of focusing on personal growth and emotional maturity to improve relationships with parents. Curiosity Over Reactivity: Advocates for a curious rather than reactive approach to family dynamics, promoting understanding and empathy. Avoid Triangulation: Highlights the pitfalls of involving third parties unnecessarily, urging direct communication in resolving conflicts. The Impact of Labels: Warns against labeling family members as villains or saints, encouraging a more nuanced understanding of individual behaviors. The Role of Feedback: Stresses the importance of offering constructive feedback without criticizing, fostering healthier communication patterns. Notable Quotes: "Being a parent is like trying to stand up in a hammock without spilling your wine." "If there's a lot of conflict with parents, it's probably a sign that there's a lot that isn't worked out." "I will not give advice until I've heard the best advice that they have to give themselves." "Even messy relationships are worth having the experience of dealing with them." "We can't have three steps to the perfect relationship to achieve in one week." Resources: Jenny Brown’s Books: Amazon Family Systems Institute: Information and resources on family systems theory. Family Systems Practice Website: Offers insights into familial relationship dynamics. Parent Hope Project: Dr. Brown's program focusing on improving parental approaches. She Wasn’t Born Yesterday, hosted by Janet Evans, a senior advertising creative and Jenni Woodhouse a semi retired social worker Join the discussion of being 40+ faaabulous on Facebook. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode invites Carmen Allen, an award-winning author of the "Molly Greenwood Adventures," to share her insights on writing children's literature embedded with enriching allegories. Carmen discusses her creative journey—from the serendipitous beginnings through dream-based inspiration to becoming a respected author in her field. Highlighting her upcoming role at the National Grandparent Conference alongside Ian, they delve into the themes of faith, writing, and the profound influence of grandparental involvement. Key Takeaways: Discover Carmen Allen’s journey from dreams to penning the "Molly Greenwood Adventures." Explore how Carmen uses her faith to craft narratives that resonate with readers beyond religious connotations. Learn about the challenges and joys of grandparenting from afar, including maintaining relationships with grandchildren across the globe. Uncover the motivations behind grandparents seeking quality, value-driven literature for their grandchildren. Notable Quotes: "As I've been writing, Molly has shaped my faith as I've been writing, which is really, really interesting." – Carmen "My journey... unpacks the whole parallel journey between writing Molly's adventures and what was going on in my real life at the same time." – Carmen "You want to make sure that your kids and your grandkids know the same, you know, same God that you know and that they have the chance to also accept faith." – Ian Carmen Allen's books, background and resources — carmenlallen.com Click here for more on Ian Barnett, National Grandparent Movement and extra resources. Episodes hosted by Ben McEachen from Hope 1032 in Sydney, Australia. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message (Message the GrandParenthood Team) or via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Grandparenthood, Ben and Ian run through some rapid fire questions! These are some of the most common questions that Ian gets asked as part of the National Grandparent movement and at the annual National Grandparenting Conference. Questions Should grandparents take sides in a divorce or separation? How do you get your Pastor more interested in the role of grandparents? What if my grandkids ask about gender? What do grandparents pray for? Is it ok to just be present with the grandkids without being a bible basher? What if the grandkids ask a question and you don't know the answer? Click here for more on Ian Barnett, National Grandparent Movement and extra resources. Episodes hosted by Ben McEachen from Hope 1032 in Sydney, Australia. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message (Message the GrandParenthood Team) or via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Grandparenthood podcast, Ben and Ian are joined by seasoned minister Simon Manchester. They explore Simon’s rich ministry journey—from London to North Sydney—and his insights on preaching, pastoral work, and the spiritual role of grandparents. Together, they offer thoughtful reflections on how faith, grace, and wisdom can empower older generations to deeply influence their families and churches. Key Takeaways: The role of a grandparent is sacred and influential, providing spiritual guidance and support to the younger generations. Both guests highlight the importance of balancing ministry roles with personal and family life. Leveraging time with grandchildren is key—using everyday moments to impart values and wisdom. Notable Quotes: "If you want to speak well from the Word, you need to listen well to the Word" — Simon  "You learn to navigate that kind of behavior, which is different from what you might have expected." — Simon "Our praying is seen as a privilege and not a chore." — Simon "Grace is having its impact on you as you do move closer to that last moment in time." — Ian Barne Click here for more on Ian Barnett, National Grandparent Movement and extra resources. Episodes hosted by Ben McEachen from Hope 1032 in Sydney, Australia. Listen to more from our Hope Podcasts collection at hopepodcasts.com.au. And send the team a message (Message the GrandParenthood Team) or via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.