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

1. Should grandparents take sides in a divorce or separation?
2. How do you get your Pastor more interested in the role of grandparents?
3. What if my grandkids ask about gender?
4. What do grandparents pray for?
5. Is it ok to just be present with the grandkids without being a bible basher?
6. 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.

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

1. Is it ok to keep a secret with your grandkids?
2. Should a grandparent step in if they think that the parent is wrong?
3. Is it ok for a grandparent to speak about Jesus if the parents have asked them not to?
4. How open and honest should you be about how you're going?
5. How to grandparents help their grandkids to get off technology?

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, we explore the vital role of "church grandparents" in nurturing faith and biblical literacy among younger generations. Drawing from his leadership in the National Grandparent Movement, Ian highlights the value of spiritual mentorship, the difference between biological and spiritual grandparenting, and practical ways older adults can remain purposeful and engaged in church communities.

Key Takeaways:

• Church Grandparent Definition: Ian broadens the term "church grandparent" beyond just biological ties, highlighting it as a spiritual mentorship role that any older church member can embrace.

• Biblical Literacy Decline: The episode discusses the decreased engagement with scripture among younger generations, positioning church grandparents as pivotal in reversing this trend.

• Role of Church Grandparents: Church grandparents can offer unique wisdom, modeling devotion and providing spiritual guidance for younger members of their communities.

• Practical Engagement: Suggestions include volunteering for church activities, praying for youth members, and sharing insights from scripture with family and church communities.

Notable Quotes:

• "The younger generations now are more Bible admirers than Bible readers."

• "It's great to get back to sharing what you've learned about God and how it can impact others."

• "A church grandparent can be anyone who wants to contribute spiritually to the lives of younger generations."

• "Why wouldn't you want to be a church grandparent? Because there's so much opportunity to impact lives."

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 explore the vital role grandparents play in discussing death with their grandchildren, helping bridge generations with honesty, hope, and faith. Through heartfelt conversations, we examine how accepting mortality can open doors to meaningful dialogue, grounded in Christian belief and the comforting hope found in Jesus.

Key Takeaways:

• Grandparents can play a critical role in discussing and normalizing the concept of death with their family, offering a perspective rooted in hope and faith.
• Having an internalized acceptance of one's own mortality is vital for grandparents before addressing these topics with grandchildren and children.
• Engaging discussions on death early can be healthfully integrated into family dialogue, providing an opportunity to discuss life, death, and hope from a Christian perspective.

Notable Quotes:

• "You are now in that final chapter. Have you got your life in order?"

• "As a Christian grandparent, I'm not nervous about what's to come because I know what's to come."

• "For me to live is Christ, but to die is gain, it's even better."

• "Death is just part of life. Life and death go hand in hand."

• "You want to see your kids and grandkids in heaven"

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 heartfelt episode of the Grandparenthood Podcast, Ben and Ian tackle the emotional and often painful issue of being blocked from seeing your grandchildren. They explore the complex family dynamics that can lead to such situations, offering empathy, insight, and hope. With a focus on self-reflection and healing, the episode introduces three key approaches—prayer, process, and perseverance—to help grandparents navigate these challenging times.

Key Takeaways:

• Grandparents are often faced with being blocked from seeing their grandchildren due to complex relational issues, which can lead to profound anguish.
• Ian Barnett introduces three strategies to address such challenges: prayer, valuing the process, and perseverance.
• The episode encourages self-reflection, the need for patience, and maintaining open channels of communication, even if only through letters or texts.
• The importance of grandparents understanding their role and accepting that they do not have all the answers.
• Listeners are encouraged to reach out to support networks and resources to help process their emotions and find pathways to reconciliation.

Notable Quotes

• "With all the things that I've seen over many years and through conferences and the podcast, being blocked from your grandkids is the hardest one to deal with."
• "Perseverance means that you actually get time yourself to grow because you may need to grow in understanding, in acceptance that you're not always right."
• "You can't determine the response of others. They will make their own decision about what they're going to do with what you do."

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.

Whether it's through divorce, separation or the passing of a life partner, many more Grandparents are navigating the reality of grandparenting on their own. This episode touches upon an array of topics, including the emotional and physical demands of solo grandparenting, comparisons to single parenting, and the challenges of church and community support. Ian shares, from the experiences of those doing it on their own, how solo grandparents can seek and benefit from resources and networks, aiming to alleviate feelings of isolation. The episode provides practical advice while highlighting the potential rewards of engaging deeply with one's grandchildren.

Key Takeaways:

• Rising Trends in Solo Grandparenting: Approximately 30% of grandparents are solo grandparents due to longer lifespans and societal changes such as divorce and separation.

• Challenges Faced: Solo grandparents often experience emotional strains, loneliness, and increased responsibilities that can mirror those faced by single parents.

• Seeking Support: It is crucial for solo grandparents to actively seek out community support, including church groups and social organizations, to avoid isolation and find encouragement.

• Role of Community: Communities, including churches, need to foster inclusive environments and provide support networks, recognizing the unique challenges faced by solo grandparents.

• Benefits and Opportunities: Solo grandparenting can offer profound benefits, such as forming deeper relationships with grandchildren an

Notable Quotes:

• "We find it hard to know how to connect with those who are just not part of the normal pattern."
• "And so a lot of the solo grandparents see great value in that because they do have freedom to say yes, to say no, and to really come and go in all sorts of ways."
• "Why don't you say you know to your friend? How about I take you along with me? Would you like to come with us to go to this event?"
• "Some of the solo grandparents say to me what they find hard is when they go out with other couples and it's just a constant reminder that they're on their own."

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 via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Grandparenthood Podcast, Ben McEachen talks with Ian Barnett from the National Grandparent Movement about the joys and complexities of having many grandchildren. They explore how grandparents can balance quality and quantity in their relationships, offering practical strategies for staying intentional and connected. Ian emphasizes the lasting legacy of thoughtful grandparenting and the importance of understanding each grandchild individually. The conversation blends heartfelt reflection with useful advice for building strong, meaningful family bonds.

Key Takeaways:

• Grandparenting with a large number of grandchildren requires thoughtful coordination and intentional engagement.

• The joy and challenges of large families highlight the importance of balancing quantity versus quality time.

• Individual attention and tailored activities can cultivate meaningful, memorable interactions with grandchildren.

• Even with many grandchildren, it is vital to distribute time fairly and be honest about availability.

• Planning and adapting to each grandchild's unique interests and personalities foster stronger family connections.

Notable Quotes:

• "You can't ever have too many grandchildren."

• "Try and take a moment, understand them. Find out what they're interested in and then share what you like doing."

• "The effort that you make is so worthwhile... you also can grow by finding out what they like doing."

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 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 chat about the challenges grandparents face when family relationships become strained. Together, they unpack the myth of the “perfect family” and acknowledge the brokenness that exists in every home. From generational differences to communication breakdowns, this honest conversation offers practical advice and encouragement for grandparents trying to stay connected and bring healing to their families.

Key Takeaways:

• Understand Universal Brokenness: Ian stresses that all families have brokenness to some degree, highlighting the importance of recognizing and addressing imperfections rather than masking them.

• The Power of Words: Be mindful and intentional about communication within family dynamics. Ian highlights the importance of being "slow to speak and quick to listen" to prevent further harm.

• Dealing with Conflict: Avoidance isn't the answer. Ian emphasizes that unresolved conflicts can lead to deeper issues and encourages proactive and sensitive resolution efforts.

• Faith and Relationships: Christian faith provides guidance, but it's not a guarantee of perfect relationships. It requires the application of Biblical principles like grace, mercy, and understanding to combat relationship challenges.

• Restoration and Reconciliation: Ian underscores that while not every relationship can be fully restored, taking steps toward reconciliation is crucial and should be approached with humility and openness.

Notable Quotes:

• "Everyone's family is broken in some degree. Every family has a level of brokenness in it."

• "Be slow to speak and quick to listen." 

• "If you doubt something, talk to your husband or wife before you say something." 

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 via Hope 103.2’s app, Facebook or Instagram.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.