Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity

Are you a grandparent unexpectedly faced with raising your grandchildren while dealing with the heartbreaking loss of your own child? Do you find yourself yearning for understanding and navigating through a maze of emotions, responsibilities, and societal expectations? Are you struggling to balance mental health, physical wellness, and spiritual growth while carrying the weight of grief?
I’m Laura Brazan, and a decade after losing my son, I've become an advocate for grandparents like you, raising their grandchildren under challenging circumstances. My journey has shown me that it’s possible to rebuild a fulfilling life despite life’s unexpected turns.

Welcome to 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: A Survivor’s Journey.' In this episode, we dive deep into "A Man’s Survival Guide for Rebuilding Life After The Death of A Child" with our guest Aaron Gray, a trauma recovery expert. Aaron shares his transformative journey over the last eleven years, offering insights on holistic wellness, community support, and the importance of tailored therapies like EMDR for dealing with personal trauma. 

For more information about Aaron, please visit https://i2uthrive.com/

Together, we will address the often-taboo topic of men's mental health, explore the importance of self-care, and provide practical advice for those in the throes of grief. Join us as we uncover valuable life lessons and create a supportive community to help you and your grandchildren thrive despite adversity. 
Tune in to find strength, hope, and practical wisdom. Let's reshape our futures together.

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Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined.

Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences.

We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.

Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grg

Liked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden

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Are you raising your grandchildren while navigating the complex terrain of trauma, healing, and resilience? Do you find yourself struggling to find a community that truly understands the unique challenges and triumphs that come with this unexpected journey? Are you yearning for insights on turning pain into power and building a life filled with purpose and hope?

I’m Laura Brazan, and in 2022, my world shifted dramatically when I became a grandparent raising grandchildren. Despite decades of motherhood, I never anticipated being thrust back into parenting during my retirement. Through the heartache of personal loss and the challenges of raising grandchildren, I've discovered that it's possible to transform trauma into triumph.
Welcome to 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Turning Trauma into Triumph.' In this episode, we dive deep with Sonny Von Cleveland, who shares his incredible journey of overcoming abuse and finding his mission in life. Sonny's raw and inspiring story highlights the power of vulnerability, mentorship, and community support. He's dedicated his life to helping others reclaim their narratives and find healing. For ore about Sonny,, his work and the foundation, got to https://www.sonnyvoncleveland.com/

Join us as we explore genuine stories of resilience, impactful mentorship programs, and the importance of addressing and communicating trauma to prevent its recurrence. We'll discuss strategies for creating a nurturing environment for your grandchildren, supported by insights from experts in trauma-informed care.

Embark on this transformative journey with us, where we'll learn to harness our pasts to build a brighter, hopeful future for ourselves and our grandchildren. Let’s turn trauma into triumph, together.

Send us a text

Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined.

Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences.

We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.

Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grg

Liked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden

Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!

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Are you a grandparent raising grandchildren and concerned about their health and diet? Struggling to navigate the complex relationship between food, emotional stress, and obesity in children? Do you wish you had a resource to guide you through fostering healthy eating habits amidst a turbulent past?
I’m Laura Brazan, and on this episode of 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity,' we delve deep into the crucial topic, "What Everyone Ought to Know About Obesity." Join me and our insightful guest, Jason Stanley, an obesity researcher, as we unravel the sobering connection between childhood trauma and obesity. For more information about Jason Stanley, please visit https://nevergaintheweightback.com/

With an empathetic lens, we explore groundbreaking research and practical strategies to cultivate a healthy diet, create positive mealtime environments, and manage emotional eating. Listen in to discover how the carnivore and ketogenic diets fit into the bigger picture, understand the latest techniques like havening and EMDR for addressing trauma, and learn to foster healthy eating habits without stress or compulsion.

Whether you’re dealing with a picky eater or worried about a grandchild’s weight, this episode is packed with expert advice and real-life success stories. Join our community, strengthen your resolve, and find hope amidst adversity. Let’s navigate this journey together and reshape a healthier future for you and your grandchildren.

Tune in and discover the strength in collective wisdom and support—because you are not alone.

Send us a text

Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined.

Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences.

We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.

Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grg

Liked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden

Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!

CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook

Are you a grandparent unexpectedly raising your grandchildren, wrestling with the complexities of upheaval and uncertainty? Do you find it challenging to embrace joy amidst the tumultuous rollercoaster of responsibility, stress, and emotional wounds? Are you searching for that elusive balance between duty and personal happiness, often feeling lost in the daily grind?

I’m Laura Brazan, your host at 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity.' Like many of you, in 2022, my life took an unforeseen turn when I became the primary caregiver for my grandchildren. Navigating through the trials of integrating unforeseen parental responsibilities with personal aspirations, I've discovered profound joy and resilience amidst life's adversities.

In this episode, 'The Secret to Joy: Finding Happiness Within,' we delve deep with happiness expert Matt O'Neill. With insights gleaned from his work impacting over 100,000 lives, Matt shares actionable strategies to transcend self-imposed limitations, embrace gratitude and self-care, and cultivate a high-vibrational mindset. Both Matt and I discuss our personal journeys of overcoming life-threatening accidents through acceptance and spiritual understanding.
Join us as we tackle the emotional and practical aspects of caregiving, share powerful stories of transformation, and equip you with tools to overcome negative thought patterns and generational traumas. Let’s collaborate to rediscover happiness and foster a nurturing environment for both you and your grandchildren.

For more information about Matt and to pre-order his new book, the "Good Mood Revolution", or to listen to his podcast, go to https://mattoneill.com/ 

Subscribe now to 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity' on Apple, Spotify, on our website at https://www.grandparents-raising-grandchildren.org/ or wherever you get your podcasts. Remember to share your stories and leave a review. Stay tuned for next week’s episode, where we explore a grandmother’s journey through the foster care system and the pathway to healing and hope. Together, we'll turn challenges into stepping stones toward a brighter future.

Send us a text

Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined.

Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences.

We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.

Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grg

Liked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden

Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!

CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook

Welcome back to another insightful episode of "Grandparents Raising Grandchildren." I'm your host, Laura Brazan, and today we're diving into the critical topic of setting boundaries—a fundamental step towards creating a loving and secure environment for grandchildren. Our special guest, Catherine Cleveland, a licensed mental health counselor and author, joins us to share her expertise on boundary-setting.
 
Catherine will walk us through the essence of her book, "The Four Essential Pillars of Boundary Setting," and explain how understanding personal and family values can lead to effective boundaries and consequences. We'll discuss the emotional challenges that come with maintaining these boundaries, such as guilt, shame, and the fear of conflict, and how grandparents can overcome these hurdles to foster healthier relationships. To learn more about Catherine, her accomplishments, her books and counseling, please visit her website at https://catherinegcleveland.com/

We’ll explore why teaching children about boundaries from a young age is vital for their development, how to adapt these concepts according to their developmental stages, and the importance of incorporating their perspectives. Catherine will also address the role of self-compassion in breaking old habits and forming new, healthier ones, and the incredible power of neuroplasticity at any age.

Whether you're struggling with complex family dynamics or looking to model and instill better habits for the next generation, this episode is packed with practical advice and heartfelt wisdom. So sit back, relax, and join us as we uncover the four essential steps to setting boundaries.

Send us a text

Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined.

Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences.

We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.

Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grg

Liked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden

Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!

CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook

Are you navigating the highs and lows of unexpectedly raising your foster grandchild, feeling overwhelmed by the complexities of the foster care system and mental health challenges? Do you struggle with the painful memories of past traumas and disruptions, unsure if your household can find balance again? Are you looking for guidance, understanding, and a supportive community to share your journey in kinship care?

I’m Laura Brazan, and today we dive into an emotional, enlightening, and sometimes gut-wrenching topic in 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity.' Join us as we unravel the intricate paths taken by grandparents who become foster caregivers, tackling the staggering hurdles with love and resilience. This episode, “From Fostering to Grandparenting- Navigating the Complex Paths of Love, Loss, and Resilience,” features the heartfelt story of a kinship caregiver who, with unwavering commitment, transformed her life to raise her troubled foster daughter's baby as her own granddaughter.

We’ll delve into real-life experiences with bipolar disorder, the daunting fight against an unwieldy foster care system, balancing careers while caregiving, and the impactful struggles of children born into trauma. Hear her candid viewpoints on the social services system, and absorb expert insights aimed at better supporting foster families.

Subscribe now to 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren' for valuable resources, expert advice, and a deeply compassionate look at the emotional landscapes you're navigating. Join our community where every story helps build strength and solidarity, ensuring you don't face these adversities alone.

Send us a text

Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined.

Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences.

We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.

Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grg

Liked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden

Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!

CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook

Feeling the weight of raising your grandchildren and navigating the complexities of unprocessed trauma? Do you struggle with a whirlwind of emotions, searching for resilience amidst adversity? Welcome to 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: The Healing Power of Storytelling and Overcoming Trauma.' 

I'm Laura Brazan, your host. In 2022, my journey took an unexpected turn when I found myself raising my grandchildren overnight. Through heartache and hope, I've discovered the transformative power of storytelling. In this episode, join mental health professional and trauma survivor, Marcy Pusey, as we delve into the significance of documenting family history and empowering children to tell their stories.

We'll explore how trauma impacts our narratives and share insights on building resilience through storytelling. Marcy discusses the need to recognize and challenge inner narratives for mental well-being and emphasizes sitting with difficult memories in a safe space for therapeutic healing. Together, we'll learn how personal stories can connect us, help us overcome self-criticism, and uncover strength for you and your grandchildren. For more info on Marcy please visit https://marcypusey.com/

Tune in for expert perspectives, heartfelt stories, and practical advice to help you reshape your narrative and find healing in your journey. Join us as we embrace the power of storytelling to find hope and support, ensuring you're not alone in this journey.

Send us a text

Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined.

Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences.

We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.

Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grg

Liked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden

Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!

CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook

Are you a grandparent raising young children and seeking guidance on fostering language development amid the unique challenges you face? Are you searching for effective strategies to support your grandchildren's communication skills while navigating their speech obstacles? Do you wish there were more accessible tools and techniques designed specifically for caregivers like you?

I’m Laura Brazan, a dedicated grandmother with firsthand experience in addressing speech challenges within our family. In 2023, I stepped deeper into this role, inspired by the journey of my grandchild who faced significant speech hurdles early in life. Recognizing the unique needs of kinship caregivers, I launched this podcast to bring practical solutions and expert advice directly to your ears.

Welcome to 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Strategies to Develop Language in Young Children.' Join me as I sit down with renowned speech pathologist Jeaneen Tang, whose personal history and professional expertise provide invaluable insights. We'll delve into Jeanine’s inspiring story, shaped by her grandfather's illness and her son's medical challenges, and learn effective techniques that can make a real difference in your grandchild’s language development. For more information about Jeaneen Tang and her new book, please visit https://www.playdumbandsabotage.com/


In this episode, you'll discover actionable tips, from the nuances of tongue-tie interventions to playful methods like 'playing dumb' and encouraging clear articulation. Jeanine also offers guidance on creating interactive and engaging communication scenarios that naturally enhance a child's language abilities.
Embark on this enlightening journey with us and reshape the future of your grandchildren's communication skills. Through shared experiences and expert knowledge, let's turn challenges into opportunities for growth and connection. Subscribe now and join a community of grandparents dedicated to nurturing through every speech milestone!

Send us a text

Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined.

Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences.

We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.

Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grg

Liked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden

Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!

CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook

Do you find yourself unexpectedly stepping into the role of a grandparent raising your grandchildren, overwhelmed by the emotional and practical challenges that come with it? Are you searching for effective ways to help your grandchildren heal from trauma and build a brighter future? Struggling to juggle your love for your grandkids while managing behavioral issues and emotional literacy? Look no further.

I'm Laura Brazan, and just like you, I was suddenly thrust into the world of kinship care. Navigating this new chapter, I discovered the healing power of play therapy and the importance of emotional resilience.

Welcome to 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity.' In today's episode, "7 Strategies for Helping Kids Heal Through Play Therapy," join me and seasoned play therapist and family coach, Anastasia Arauz. Together, we dive into transformative techniques for emotional well-being, practical advice on fostering resilience, and heartfelt success stories from families just like yours. Read more about Anastasia and her work at https://www.anastasiaarauzcoaching.com/

Tune in to hear social-emotional strategies, learn about creating healthier family dynamics, and understand the pivotal role of education in addressing your grandchild's needs. 

Send us a text

Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined.

Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences.

We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.

Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grg

Liked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden

Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!

CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook

Are you a grandparent unexpectedly stepping into the role of full-time parent for your grandchildren? Navigating school runs, tantrums, and isolation in an upturned social life? Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, searching for a community that understands your unique challenges? You're not alone in this journey of kinship care and the complexities it brings.

I’m Laura Brazan, and like you, I found myself in the profound role of raising my grandchildren, a journey filled with unexpected turns and emotional highs and lows. Through experience, I realized the importance of community and the power of shared wisdom and support.

Welcome to 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity.' In this podcast, you'll uncover key strategies to build a support network that's vital for navigating this challenging path. Join us for Episode 26, 'Building A Support Network for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren with Nicholeen Peck,' where we delve into expert advice and inspiring stories to empower and uplift. Learn the importance of community, practical tips for finding support, and ways to connect with others navigating a similar path. Read more about Nicholeen Peck and  "Teaching Self-Government" at https://teachingselfgovernment.com/

Together, we’ll explore the nuances of raising children who have experienced trauma, offering valuable resources to guide you. Join our supportive community where your voice is heard, your experiences are valued, and your journey is honored. Let’s reshape the future for you and your grandchildren, finding strength and support in each other’s stories.

Send us a text

Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined.

Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences.

We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.

Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grg

Liked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden

Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!

CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook