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:

1. "We need to dive into what to do about devices and screen time for our grandkids."

2. "Technology is just another thing that's out there; it's how you engage with it."

3. "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:

1. "It's good to have something outside of that that either you just own or just really emphasizes who you are as a person."

2. "There is life outside of golf. I know it's hard to believe."

3. "Find those interests and enjoy them and even share them with someone."

4. "A hobby can become an idol. And that can come at the expense of your family, your marriage."

5. "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.