Resilience & Wellness Episodes

Are you a grandparent raising a grandchild who struggles with reading, writing, or “racing thoughts” that seem impossible to organize? Are you searching for practical answers and genuine hope, exhausted by a school system that just doesn’t get your child’s needs? Do you ever wonder if hidden strengths could be unlocked in your grandchild, turning struggle into a superpower? I’m Laura Brazan, and in this episode of Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity, we welcome dysle...

Have you ever met someone whose story mirrors your own—someone who truly understands the unique joys and struggles of grandparents raising grandchildren? Are you seeking connection, compassion, and real-world solutions in the midst of legal, financial, and emotional challenges? Do you long for a supportive community and expert guidance as you help your grandchildren heal from trauma and build a new legacy? Meet the Grand Fund initiative! I'm Laura Brazan, and like you, my retirement took an unex...

Are you looking for proactive parenting skills? Are you a grandparent raising your grandchildren and searching for practical guidance to navigate life’s toughest moments? Do feelings of guilt, shame, or overwhelm ever weigh you down as you support children impacted by trauma, addiction, or family instability? Are you looking for proven strategies to create a nurturing, stable home environment, even in the face of adversity? I’m Laura Brazan, host of Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturi...

Do you want to build your kids confidence? Has your grandchild’s spark been dimmed by life’s challenges? Do you wish you could unlock unshakable confidence in them, helping them to shine and express their authentic self? If you’re a grandparent raising grandchildren and searching for ways to nurture true self-esteem, social-emotional skills, and resilience, this episode is for you. I’m Laura Brazan, host of ‘Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity.’ In this episode, I ...

Are you a grandparent raising emotionally whole boys boys in a world that sometimes discourages men from expressing their true feelings? Do you wonder how to break generational cycles that keep boys trapped in an “emotional desert,” unable to connect with their vulnerabilities and strengths? Are you seeking guidance on nurturing grandsons and granddaughters alike, empowering them to access their full emotional selves? I’m Laura Brazan, host of ‘Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Th...

Brian McLaren, The Last Voyage Are you a grandparent striving to build a brighter future for your grandchildren while wrestling with today’s unprecedented challenges and uncertainties? Are you searching for practical wisdom on legacy, emotional healing, and parenting through trauma, all while managing the weight of being both caregiver and guide to the next generation? I’m Laura Brazan, and on this episode of “Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity,” we’re joined by r...

Leading without a system. Are you a grandparent suddenly raising your grandchildren, feeling overwhelmed by the lack of support, resources, or recognition for all you do? Do you find yourself exhausted, navigating complex family trauma, or wondering how to keep going when there’s no instruction manual—or applause—for your sacrifices? The daunting reality of kinship care can leave you feeling invisible, financially strained, and emotionally drained. I’m Laura Brazan, a grandparent who has walk...

Lead with the heart. Do you ever wonder why certain emotional patterns keep repeating in your family, or why reacting to your grandchild’s behavior sometimes leaves you feeling overwhelmed? Are you searching for real tools to help you build emotional resilience as a grandparent raising grandchildren through trauma and adversity? You’re not alone. I’m Laura Brazan, and like many grandparents thrust into caregiving roles, I know the immense challenges—emotional, financial, and relational—of nur...

How can you identify body image myths? Are you navigating the complex journey of raising grandchildren, wondering how societal health ideals might inadvertently harm your grandkids' self-perception? Are you seeking fresh insights into nurturing healthy body images for the youngsters now in your care? Explore the under-discussed topic of eating disorders affecting youths and how celebrated health behaviors can mask early symptoms. Learn about racial inequities, food insecurity, and educational mi...

Exploring yoga for grief. Are you a grandparent navigating the complexities of raising grandchildren while processing grief and trauma? Do you feel isolated in your journey, seeking effective ways to manage stress and find healing amidst the chaos? Are you yearning for a supportive community that understands the unique challenges you face as a kinship caregiver? I’m Laura Brazan, the host of 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity.' Our latest episode, "Exploring Grie...

Do you know how to help prevent tween peer pressure and teen peer pressure? Are you a grandparent navigating the tumultuous journey of raising tweens and teens in today's ever-evolving world? Do you feel the pressures of shaping young minds while contending with the modern challenges of social media and peer influence? Are you eager to empower your grandchildren with tools of resilience and independence? The task of providing guidance amidst this whirlwind can feel overwhelming, like steering a ...

Building memories with children- Are you a grandparent navigating the unexpected journey of raising your grandchildren? Seeking to transform everyday moments into magical memories? Feeling overwhelmed with the challenge but eager to create a loving, positive environment for your family? Join Laura Brazan on 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity.' In our latest episode, discover how to turn parenting challenges into joyful experiences with guest Craig Parks. Drawing fro...

Are you a grandparent dedicated to crafting a meaningful legacy for your grandchildren? Discover the profound impact of storytelling and the power of words in our latest episode. I'm Laura Brazan, host of 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity,' where we dive deep into utilizing narratives to nurture and inspire future generations. In "Crafting a Legacy Life- The Power of Words and Storytelling," we are joined by Carew Papritz, an extraordinary storyteller and author of...

Are you battling the weight of mental health challenges while raising your grandchildren? Do you feel the complexity of navigating a bipolar disorder diagnosis and its impact on your family, especially when relief seems out of reach? Are you searching for proven strategies to manage emotional turmoil and reclaim a sense of normalcy for your loved ones? Understanding and healing with bipolar disorder can feel like a never-ending rollercoaster, filled with peaks of mania and valleys of depression....

Meet Mr. Whiskey! Are you a grandparent unexpectedly raising your grandchildren, facing a myriad of challenges and emotions? Do you find yourself seeking guidance and strength amidst the daily trials, longing to connect with others who understand your journey? I’m Laura Brazan, host of 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity,' and today you are in for an inspirational treat. Join us in this special episode, "Meet Mr. Whiskey—U.S. Navy Veteran, Author, Podcaster, Preac...

The survival guide for grandparents! Are you navigating the complex world of raising your grandchildren, seeking guidance and support in the midst of a whirlwind of challenges? Do you find yourself feeling alone, grappling with the weight of decisions and responsibilities that can sometimes feel overwhelming? Are you striving to create a safe, nurturing environment while managing your personal growth and well-being? I’m Laura Brazan, and welcome to 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturi...

Unlocking the power of forgiveness. Are you a grandparent navigating the intricate path of raising your grandchildren and seeking a beacon of understanding and support? Do you battle the emotional turmoil of past grievances while striving to provide a nurturing environment for the younger generation in your care? Amid the overwhelming responsibility and grief, the quest for healing and peace can feel like an elusive dream. I’m Laura Brazan. In 2022, my life took an unexpected turn when my two...

Are you a grandparent raising a teenager and finding it challenging to navigate the shifting dynamics of modern parenting? Do you struggle with communication, feeling like your conversations often lead to conflict instead of connection? Are you seeking practical strategies to foster cooperation, responsibility, and a better relationship with your teen? I’m Laura Brazan. In 2022, my peaceful retirement transformed unexpectedly when I became the primary caregiver for my two teenage grandchildre...

4 effective tools for strong-willed children. Are you a grandparent unexpectedly raising a strong-willed grandchild, navigating the complexities of intergenerational parenting? Do you often find yourself battling emotions and seeking tools to manage confrontations effectively? Are you striving to establish a harmonious household while nurturing the unique spirit of your headstrong grandchild? I’m Laura Brazan, and on this episode of 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren,' we dive into the world...

Are you a grandparent unexpectedly raising your grandchildren, navigating caregiver burnout recovery? Do you feel as if your identity has vanished in the shuffle of medical appointments and emotional strain? Have you ever wondered if there’s a way to recover from burnout without demanding endless hours you don’t have? The pressures of caregiving can overwhelm even the strongest among us, turning daily life into an uphill battle. I’m Laura Brazan, and alongside my guest, Carrie Severson, we de...

How can you help your grandchildren with Healing Your Inner Eater? Do you struggle with understanding how to manage dietary needs while promoting a healthy relationship with food in your household? Do you find yourself overwhelmed with the desire to model positive eating behaviors without falling into the trap of food restriction? I’m Laura Brazan, your host for 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity.' Like many of you, I've faced the unique challenges and joys of ra...

Are you a grandparent navigating the intricate challenges of raising your grandchildren? Have you considered mentorship as a means to connect with the community amidst the whirlwind of responsibilities? Welcome to 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren,' where we delve into stories and strategies to empower you and your family. I'm Laura Brazan, and in this week's episode, "Rethinking Aging – Mentoring a New Generation," we sit down with Dr. Deborah Heiser, founder of The Mentor Project. Dr. Heise...

In this insightful episode, we delve into the often overlooked complexities of youth sports parenting with Michael Huber. Many of us can relate to the pressures of being a young athlete—either feeling the weight of expectations from parents to excel in every game or facing the sting of being sidelined and overlooked. Michael shares his mission to equip young athletes and their families with essential tools to navigate today’s increasingly challenging and often toxic sports environment. We explo...

Are you a grandparent unexpectedly raising a transgender grandchild, facing unique challenges and navigating complex family dynamics? Do you struggle with ensuring a supportive environment for your grandchild amidst societal prejudice and emotional obstacles? Are you yearning to break down barriers and foster understanding, compassion, and acceptance while also maintaining your own mental and physical health? I’m Laura Brazan, and in this episode of 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren,' we dive...