Raising Emotionally Whole Boys: A Grandparent's Guide

Are you a grandparent striving to raise emotionally healthy boys in a world that sometimes discourages men from expressing their true feelings? Do you wonder how to break generational cycles that keep boys trapped in an “emotional desert,” unable to connect with their vulnerabilities and strengths? Are you seeking guidance on nurturing grandsons and granddaughters alike, empowering them to access their full emotional selves?I’m Laura Brazan, host of ‘Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity.’ In this episode, we’re joined by psychologist Gloria Vanderhorst, who brings over 50 years of experience to help us understand the vital role grandparents play in fostering emotional wholeness. Together, we’ll unpack cultural myths about boys’ emotions, provide practical steps for building emotional intelligence, and share tools—like feeling vocabulary lists—to create open conversations at home.You can find Dr. Vanderhorst's New York Times best-selling journal book, Read, Reflect, Respond: The 3 R's of Growth and Change on her website.Tune in for expert advice, real-life stories, and actionable strategies to help your grandchildren thrive. Join our supportive community as we break old patterns and nurture the next generation’s emotional wellbeing—one heartfelt conversation at a time. Subscribe now and discover how you can be the catalyst for lasting, positive change in your family’s legacy.Send us Fan MailRethink the child welfare system—what if the real issue isn’t funding, but the questions we ask? If you’re passionate about social justice, child welfare, or systemic reform—this episode will challenge your perspective and inspire new ways to advocate for change. Join us in shifting the focus from crisis management to family-centered solutions. Reshape the future of child welfare—listen now.  In this special pre-roll segment, I’m sharing a moving letter from a member of our community, Laurel. Her story of loss, resilience, and raising her grandson after the unthinkable is a raw reminder that none of us are walking this path alone.We want to hear from you. If Laurel’s story resonates with you, or if you have a journey of your own to share, join our private community. Your story might be the exact lifeline someone else needs to hear today. 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/grgLiked 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