Fun Grandma

S2 Ep #13, "Support, Science Days & Sweet Notes," with Dena Vrieling

In this encouraging episode of Fun Grandma, Sue and Shelleigh talk with experienced teacher and grandmother Dena Vrieling, who shares why grandparents can play such an important supporting role in today’s busy family life. As a teacher who works with preteens and teens, Dena brings thoughtful insight into what kids need and how grandparents can come alongside both their adult children and grandchildren with practical help, love, and consistency. Dena also shares about the special relationship she has built with her granddaughter, Jazzy, through everyday time together and fun shared experiences like theater, games, and science day. Her story is a beautiful reminder that meaningful grandparenting often grows through simple, faithful presence. This episode is made even sweeter by a heartfelt letter Jazzy wrote to her grandma after our classroom visit. If you have ever wondered how grandparents can make a real difference in the lives of their families, this conversation is full of warmth, wisdom, and inspiration. #FunGrandmaPodcast #Grandparenting #IntentionalGrandparenting #GrandmaLife #FamilySupport #SupportForParents #MultigenerationalFamily #GrandmotherAndGranddaughter #BusyFamilies #GrandparentsMatter #FamilyConnection #PreteensAndTeens #ChristianPodcast #FamilyPodcast #GrandparentEncouragement "How to Babysit a Grandma" by Jean Reagan https://a.co/d/0hCcEoUw [https://a.co/d/0hCcEoUw]

S2, Episode #12, "Love that Listens," Lynn Ridinger

What makes a grandma so special? In this episode of Fun Grandma, Susan and Shelleigh share real classroom answers from children about what they love most about their grandmothers, then sit down with veteran teacher Lynn Ridinger for a heartfelt conversation on grand parenting, child development, and connection across generations. Lynn has spent decades teaching both preschool and elementary students, and she shares how what she learned in the classroom now influences the way she loves, understands, and connects with her the children in her life. This episode is full of encouragement for grandmothers, parents, and anyone who wants stronger family relationships. #FunGrandmaPodcast #Grandparenting #GrandmaLife #Grandchildren #FamilyRelationships #GenerationalConnection #IntentionalGrandparenting #GrandmaWisdom #FamilyPodcast #TeacherWisdom

S2 Ep #11, Travel Tips & Vacation Mindset with Kristi Ottmar

In this episode of the Fun Grandma Podcast, Sue and Shelleigh sit down with returning guest Kristi Ottmar for a conversation full of practical travel wisdom and thoughtful encouragement. Kristi is a seasoned traveler and former travel agent whose advice first caught the attention of many listeners during our live Shenanigans event. Her insight sparked so much interest that we knew we needed a full episode with her. Kristi shares helpful travel tips, advice for traveling with a group, and practical ways to communicate clearly so vacations go more smoothly. She also offers ideas specific to Hawaii and especially Maui, along with smart ways to think about planning, packing, budgeting, and making the most of your time away. But this conversation is about more than logistics. Kristi also talks about the kind of vacation mindset that can help you slow down, enjoy the moment, and deepen connection with the people you’re traveling with. Whether you’re planning a getaway with friends, family, or multiple generations, this episode is full of encouragement to help you travel with more peace, purpose, and joy. Be sure to visit our Fun Grandma blog for links and resources connected to many of the ideas Kristi mentions in this episode. https://www.fun-grandma.com/fun-g-blog/ #Grandparenting #MultiGenerationalTravel #FamilyConnection #TravelPlanning #VacationMindset #TravelWithFriends #WomenWhoTravel #FunGrandmaPodcast

S2 Episode #10, "A Chat on Personal Growth & Music, " with our producer Aidan Beeson

In this episode of the Fun Grandma Podcast, hosts Sue and Shelleigh sit down for one of their favorite types of conversations—asking each other questions about the things that are helping them grow, stay encouraged, and navigate life in this season. From practical habits to small mindset shifts, they share what’s been making a difference lately and why it matters. Then the conversation takes a fun turn when podcast producer Aidan Beeson joins them in front of the camera for the first time. Aidan schools them a bit on current slang and some questions about how music was experienced “long ago!”  Aidan also shares exciting news about his musical duo Beyond Bryden, who have been selected to participate in the Plaid Dog Studios Development Program. As part of finishing their upcoming album, the duo is working to crowdfund the final production of their project. If you enjoy conversations about family, creativity, music, and supporting the next generation, this episode will inspire you. Support Beyond Bryden: https://funding.plaiddogrecording.com/beyondbryden #FunGrandmaPodcast #FamilyPodcast #GenerationalConversations #GenZvsBoomers #MusicIndustry #IndieMusicArtist #SupportYoungArtists #CreativeJourney #PodcastClips #LifeConversations #IndependentMusician #NewMusicArtist #CrowdfundingMusic #MusicDevelopment #SongwriterLife

S2 Ep #9, "Steel Drums, Rodeos & Resilient Grand Parenting" with Janet Bly

What does it take to stay connected to your grandchildren when the generational gap feels large? In this inspiring episode of Fun Grandma, we sit down with Janet Bly, prolific author of over 120 books, who shares heartfelt wisdom on the challenges and joys of modern grand parenting.  Janet reminds us that grand parenting is not about perfection — it’s about presence, creativity, faith, and resilience. Whether you’re navigating widowhood, long-distance grand parenting, or simply wondering how to stay relevant and connected in your grandchildren’s lives, this episode is filled with encouragement and practical ideas.  We hope this episode will inspire you to keep on connecting, praying, laughing and living life to the full. Let Love be your greatest Aim!  Bly’s Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/groups/stephenandjanetbly/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/stephenandjanetbly/] Stephen Bly Down a Western Trail Podcast Series https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stephen-bly-down-a-western-trail/id1649215475 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stephen-bly-down-a-western-trail/id1649215475] The Power of a Godly Grandparent https://a.co/d/01bH6juB [https://a.co/d/01bH6juB] How to be a Good Grandparent https://a.co/d/0a4iSNTp [https://a.co/d/0a4iSNTp] Paperback Writer https://a.co/d/04ZYpeuO [https://a.co/d/04ZYpeuO] #Grandparenting #FunGrandma #ChristianGrandparent #GrandmaLife #WidowhoodJourney #FaithAndFamily #LegacyLiving #StayYoungAtHeart #FamilyConnection #WomenOver60 #GrandparentTips #JoyInEverySeason #PodcastForWomen #SteelDrumsAndRodeos