Episodes & Topics
Below is a listing of our episodes. A new episode releases weekly and can be heard on Apple Podcast, Spotify or your favorite podcast app
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Pilot: Meet the Grandmas
Learn more about your co-hosts Angela and Sharon, why they decided to create this podcast series, and what to expect in the future.
Episode 1: Pregnancy, Pregnancy Loss, and Birth
Hear from Sharon and Angela as they describe their experiences and challenges balancing their careers while being present for their daughters through the ups and downs of their pregnancies, including miscarriages, and the births of their first grand babies.
LInks to topics & tips: https://www.cnn.com/2024/06/09/health/video/swimsuit-color-prevent-drowning-kids-swim-safety-howard-digvid
Baby Shower Game:
Episode 2: Grandma to the Rescue - Experiences and tips for supporting new parents
In this episode, we delve into the invaluable role grandmas play in helping new parents during their first few weeks at home. We'll share practical tips and heartwarming stories on how to provide support without being intrusive, and offer advice on helping sleep-deprived parents. Join us for a blend of wisdom, experience, and love as we navigate this special time in a family's journey.
Episode tip links:
Setting up a meal train: https://www.mealtrain.com/
Episode 3: Bonding and Balance - Prioritizing Friendships
In this episode, we explore the importance of friendships for working grandmas and how these connections boost well-being and happiness. We'll share tips on balancing time between work, family, and personal commitments while prioritizing friendships. Tune in for practical advice and heartwarming stories on nurturing these vital relationships amidst our busy lives. Discover how strong friendships can bring balance, joy, and support to your journey as a working grandma.
Episode notes & links:
Episode 4: Healthy Habits for Working Grandmas
In this episode, we dive into the world of fitness and wellness specifically tailored for working grandmas. Balancing work, family, and personal time can be challenging, but maintaining healthy habits is essential for your overall well-being. We’ll share our personal stories and tips on how we try to stay active and healthy amidst our busy schedules. Join us to discover how you can prioritize your health and fitness while embracing the joys and responsibilities of being a working grandma. Tune in and get inspired by real-life experiences to lead a healthier, more balanced life!
Episode Notes and Links:
Sleepy Grandma Cocktail
Sharon’s take on the viral sleepy girl cocktail
Mix one scoop of Moon Juice berry Magnesi-Om
1/2 cup organic tart cherry juice (I use Trader Joe’s)
1/3 can of Poppi cherry-limeade soda
Add ice and enjoy!
Please check with your doctor before adding any supplements.
Episode 5: Generations Apart: Raising Kids Then and Now
In this episode, we explore the fascinating differences between raising kids today and 25-30 years ago. Join us as we discuss how parenting styles, product safety, nutrition, and societal expectations have evolved over the years. We'll share personal stories, insights, and reflections on how these changes have impacted the way we care for our grandchildren.
Episode Tips and Links:
https://snugglemeorganic.com/collections/snuggle-me-organic-infant
https://olympics.com/ioc/gender-equality/gender-equality-through-time
Episode 6: Technology's Impact on
Our Grandkids
In this episode, we dive into the profound influence that today’s technology has on our grandchildren's lives. From screen time to social media, we discuss how digital advancements are shaping the way they learn, play, and interact with the world. We'll explore the key issues that grandparents need to be aware of, including the potential risks and benefits of growing up in a tech-driven era. Join us as we uncover what every grandparent should know about the digital world and its impact on our grandkids’ development and well-being.
Episode Tips & Links:
Sharon's Fabulous Find: Minnie Moon Diapers
Episode 7: Executive Wisdom: An Interview with a Grandma of 8
In this episode, we sit down with an accomplished executive grandma, Laura Young-Shehata who shares her unique journey of balancing a demanding career with the joys and challenges of grandparenting eight grandchildren. Having raised all girls herself, she talks about the learning curve of grandparenting boys and discovering how to meet their needs through their love languages. Additionally, she opens up about the surprising and heartwarming moment of discovering a granddaughter through 23andMe. Join us for an inspiring conversation filled with wisdom, love, and the incredible adaptability of a grandma who leads both at home and work.
Episode 8: Cherished Moments: Kids’ Favorite Time with Grandma
In this episode, we delve into the treasured gift of time that grandmas give their grandkids, and how it’s often the simplest moments that create the most lasting memories. Whether it’s cooking together in the kitchen, exploring the outdoors, or celebrating special moments, these are the activities that kids cherish most. Join us as we celebrate the unique bond between grandmas and their grandchildren, sharing heartwarming stories and highlighting how these everyday activities can become the most memorable.
Episode Notes & Tips:
Episode 9: Grandmas Navigating Modern Parenting Styles
In this episode, we dive into modern parenting styles, discussing how these new trends impact their roles as grandmothers. They reflect on traditional authoritarian and authoritative parenting they experienced, contrast it with today's gentle and child-centered approaches, and share personal anecdotes that highlight the challenges and surprises of grandparenting in today's world.
Episode Notes & Tips:
Episode 10: Recap Rundown: Celebrating our First 9 Episodes
In this special milestone episode, we recap the first nine episodes of the podcast, sharing key highlights, updates, and the best tips we’ve gathered so far. We’ll revisit some of the most popular topics and dive into listener feedback, addressing the challenges and successes grandmas have shared with us along the way. Whether you’re just joining or have been with us since the start, this episode is filled with new insights and reflections on the incredible journey of being a working grandma. Tune in for fresh tips, inspiring stories, and a look at what’s to come!
Episode Notes & Tips:
Episode 11: Goals & Gains: Fitness Tips for Busy Grandmas
In this episode, we’re joined by fitness expert Robbin Leopold to discuss how busy grandmas can achieve their fitness goals and make lasting health gains. Robin shares her top tips for establishing realistic goals, incorporating effective exercises into your routine, and using stacking techniques to stay consistent. We also highlight the importance of meditation and stretching at our age for maintaining overall well-being and flexibility. Whether you're a grandma looking to boost your energy or just take better care of yourself, this episode offers practical advice to help you stay active and healthy while managing your busy life. Tune in and get ready to make some goals and gains!
Episode Notes:
Episode 12: Balancing Acts: Keeping Peace with Multiple Grandparents
In today's episode, we dive into the challenges of juggling different expectations of multiple sets of grandparents wanting to spend time with their grandchildren.
Join us as we share personal stories, insights, and tips on ensuring grandchildren develop positive attachments to all their grandparents, no matter the distance. We discuss the matrilineal advantage, the importance of technology in staying connected, and practical advice for keeping holidays conflict-free.
Don't miss out on our fabulous finds and listener tips to make your grandparenting journey smoother and more enjoyable.
Episode Notes & Tips:
Episode 13: Travel Tales and App Tips: Navigating Life as Working Grandmas
In this episode, Angela shares an inspiring yet challenging story about balancing her professional life with grand parenting responsibilities.
From unexpected travel hurdles to managing health issues, Angela recounts her busy week filled with work commitments and family time. Despite the challenges, she found ways to mix both worlds, even discovering some local gems along the way.
The conversation also explores practical tech tips and apps that can make life easier. Sharon discusses apps to stay organized and connected in today’s fast-paced world. They conclude with a reflection on meaningful relationships with grandchildren.
Join Angela and Sharon for an engaging episode filled with travel stories, useful tech advice, and thoughtful insights on modern grand parenting.
Episode Notes & Tips: Helpful Apps: 2d55c8fa-6c84-4a52-9f4d-e360e0af2481
Inspirational Grandma Sally Fields: https://lemonadamedia.com/podcast/julia-gets-wise-with-sally-field/
Episode 14: Navigating a Screen-Free Childhood with Expert Sophie Zee
In this enlightening episode of The Grand Balance, we sit down with Sophie Zee, a child development expert, former school psychologist, and doula. Sophie shares her invaluable insights and evidence-based advice on raising children in a screen-free environment. As a mom herself, Sophie offers practical tips and guidance for parents and grandparents looking to foster healthier, more engaged family interactions without the reliance on screens.
Episode Notes & Tips:
Guest Speaker Information:
https://www.instagram.com/schoolpsychmom/
Episode 15: Cybersecurity and Grandparenting: Insights from a Trailblazer
In this episode of "The Grand Balance," hosts Sharon and Angela welcome a special guest, Carrie Whysall, a seasoned cybersecurity leader and a devoted grandma. Carrie shares her inspiring journey of balancing a demanding career in cybersecurity with the joys of being a grandmother.
Carrie opens up about her professional challenges and triumphs, and discusses the growing concerns of cybercrime, particularly around popular social media platforms, and provides practical cybersecurity tips for individuals and families. Her emphasis on the significance of protecting not only ourselves but also our children from the potential threats of cyberbullying and data breaches is enlightening.
Tune in to learn how to protect your loved ones in the digital age and gain insights into the delicate balance of work and family life.
Episode Notes:
Carrie's Resources for Online Safety
Episode 16: Dog Safety and Children with Professional Dog Trainer Nicole Gossler
In this enlightening episode, we sit down with professional dog trainer Nicole Gossler to explore the crucial topic of dog safety around children. Nicole shares her wealth of knowledge on how to foster a harmonious relationship between pets and kids, emphasizing the importance of understanding canine behavior and body language.
Listeners will learn practical tips on how to introduce dogs to children safely, recognizing signs of stress in pets, and teaching kids how to interact appropriately with their furry friends.
This episode is packed with valuable insights for working grandmas and parents alike, aiming to create a safe and loving environment for the whole family. Tune in for a thoughtful discussion that balances the joys of pet ownership with the responsibilities it entails!
Episode Notes:
How to reach Nicole Gossler (Dog Trainer):
Phone: (619) 254-7397
Email: Nicole@sandiegopuppycoach.com
Episode 17: Health Warning for Stressed Parents and How Grandmas Can Help
In this engaging episode of The Grand Balance, Angela and Sharon delve into the demanding world of modern parenting as highlighted by the U.S. Surgeon General warning: the increased stress levels faced by today's parents is causing a public health crisis. The hosts explore how intensive parenting, characterized by the need for constant enrichment and engagement with children, has escalated parental stress across all demographics. They discuss how grandparents can play a crucial role in alleviating this stress, offering practical support and emotional encouragement to their children.
Tune in for an insightful discussion and leave with a renewed appreciation for the power of family support and the joy of grandparenting.
Episode Notes & Tips:
The NY Times Podcast Episode: The Parents Aren't All Right
Sharon's Fabulous Find: The Oura Ring
Episode 18: Lori Moore's Inspiring Journey of Philanthropy and Family
In this episode of "The Grand Balance," hosts dive into the inspiring story of giving back by Lori Moore, a dedicated working grandmother from San Diego. Lori shares her journey from organizing community initiatives as a young mother to becoming a pivotal leader at Rady Children's Hospital Auxiliary. Her story is one of passion, commitment, and the relentless pursuit of making a difference in her community.
Lori discusses the early influences that sparked her philanthropic spirit and offers insights into how she balances her demanding professional life with her fulfilling role as a grandmother. The episode also explores the importance of finding volunteer opportunities that align with personal passions, and Lori provides practical advice for those looking to get involved in their communities.
Join us as we celebrate the incredible work of Lori Moore and learn how to integrate community service into our lives, all while maintaining the beautiful balance of family and work.
Episode 19: Answering the Working Grandmas Inbox Pt 1
Join us for the first of this reoccurring segment of the "The Grand Balance," where our hosts respond to listener queries from the Working Grandmas Inbox. In this episode, the grandmas discuss ideas on entertaining grandkids outside the home to explore fun-filled activities with their grandchildren. They also respond to the tricky question balancing parent requests with the desires of little ones during holiday seasons. This week also includes one of Sharon's Fabulous Finds.
Don't miss out on this delightful episode with practical tips to enhance your grandparenting journey!
Sharon's Fabulous Find:Tush Baby
Episode 20: Preparing for the Holidays: Tips from the Grand Balance
In this episode of The Grand Balance, hosts Angela and Sharon provide tips and experiences preparing for the holidays, including staying healthy during the festive season. They discuss the importance of flexibility and new traditions as family dynamics evolve, and explore creative, non-toy gift ideas that bring joy without the clutter. In this episode you will also hear an inspiring grandma story and one of Sharon's Fabulous Finds.
Join Angela and Sharon as they navigate the beautiful chaos of work, family, and the holiday season with wisdom and laughter.
Sharon's Fabulous Find: Beekeeper's Naturals Propolis Throat Spray
Episode 21: The Three L's of Parenting With Guest Author Martha Burich
In this enlightening episode of "The Grand Balance," hosts Sharon and Angela are joined by special guest Martha Burich, a seasoned child psychology professor and author. Together, they delve into the secrets of effective parenting with insights from Martha's book, Yes, You Can Raise Happy, Responsible Children: Simple Solutions and Real-Life Examples for Successful Parenting.
Martha introduces the "Three L's of Parenting," a simple yet powerful approach to guiding children towards becoming well-rounded adults. The discussion emphasizes the importance of saying no with love, leading by example, and allowing children to experience failure as a learning tool. The hosts and Martha also explore the changing dynamics of family roles and the significance of grandparents in a child's upbringing.
Tune in for valuable tips, real-life examples, and heartfelt stories that highlight the impact of community, family, and the timeless wisdom of shared responsibilities. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, or caregiver, this episode offers practical advice to help you nurture a supportive environment for the next generation.
Episode Notes:
Martha's Book: Yes, You Can Raise Happy, Responsible Children
Contact Martha:
Facebook Group: Mastering Child Behavior
Email: marthaburich.com
Episode 22: Insights from Pediatrician Julie Massey, MD
In this episode, we welcome Dr. Julie Massey, an experienced pediatrician and first-time grandma. Join us as Julie shares her journey of grandparenting while reflecting on her 25 years of expertise in healthcare. Discover her advice for navigating the challenges of today’s parenting landscape, from picky eaters to developmental milestones. Julie offers a unique lens on family life, providing insights from both her professional and personal experiences. Tune in for an engaging conversation about embracing the beautiful chaos of grandparenting and the balance between family and career.
Episode 23: Meet the Daughters Who Inspired "The Grand Balance" Podcast
Welcome to the season one finale of "The Grand Balance" podcast. In this special episode, we introduce you the daughters of hosts Angela and Sharon, who without them the podcast would have never happened.
Hear from the daughters who share heartfelt advice, surprising revelations about parenting, and the special bond that strengthens with each generational layer. Whether you're a new mom, an aspiring grandmother, or navigating the joys of family life, this episode offers warmth, wisdom, and a few laughs along the way.
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