I'm delighted to be introducing a brand-new topic to the podcast: modern grandparenting. It's not a life stage I'm personally entering just yet - but as Magnificent Midlife continues to evolve, it's one that feels increasingly important to talk about.

My guest is Dee Dee Moore, founder of More Than Grand, an online hub dedicated to helping new grandparents make the very best of their role.

Dee Dee brings a sharp understanding of family dynamics, communication and boundaries - and a refreshing honesty about how easy it is to get grandparenting wrong, even with the best intentions.

We talk about:

-Why grandparenting has become more complicated and more emotionally loaded than ever before

-The growing trend of parents limiting or cutting off contact with grandparents (and why it happens)

-How modern parenting culture, social media and constant advice have increased anxiety for new parents

-Why supporting the parents - not indulging the grandchild - is the most important grandparent role

-Common missteps grandparents make

-How mindful grandparenting begins with intention, self-reflection and honest conversations

-What parents actually want from grandparents and what grandchildren remember most

-Navigating tricky in-law relationships with curiosity, respect and emotional maturity

-Why maintaining a relationship with a daughter- or son-in-law matters more than many grandparents realise

-How technology - including AI - can help grandparents stay connected, especially across distance

-The importance of embracing your grandchildren's world rather than expecting them to adapt to yours

-Why grandparenting is a role worth preparing for, not something to "wing"

And more.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it and leave us a 5* review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you're listening. Order Rachel's book, Magnificent Midlife: Transform Your Middle Years, Menopause And Beyond, recommended in The New York Times as one of seven top books about menopause at magnificentmidlife.com/book The paperback can also be purchased on Amazon or other online retailers: UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ US & Canada: https://www.amazon.com/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ Australia: https://www.amazon.com.au/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ You can listen to all the other episodes and get the show notes at magnificentmidlife.com/podcast. Podcast recommended by the Sunday Times. FeedSpot #5 in 40 Best Midlife Podcasts FeedSpot #7 in 100 Best Midlife Women Podcasts FeedSpot #2 in 10 Best UK Life Hacks Podcasts You'll find lots of strategies, support and resources to help make your midlife magnificent at magnificentmidlife.com. Check out Rachel's online Revitalize Experience, a 6-week intensive small group mentoring experience or 1-1 Midlife Mentoring.