Fun Grandma

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 Reaganhttps://a.co/d/0hCcEoUw

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

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

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

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 Pagehttps://www.facebook.com/groups/stephenandjanetbly/Stephen Bly Down a Western Trail Podcast Serieshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stephen-bly-down-a-western-trail/id1649215475The Power of a Godly Grandparenthttps://a.co/d/01bH6juBHow to be a Good Grandparenthttps://a.co/d/0a4iSNTpPaperback Writerhttps://a.co/d/04ZYpeuO#Grandparenting #FunGrandma #ChristianGrandparent#GrandmaLife #WidowhoodJourney #FaithAndFamily#LegacyLiving #StayYoungAtHeart #FamilyConnection#WomenOver60 #GrandparentTips #JoyInEverySeason#PodcastForWomen #SteelDrumsAndRodeos

After discussion their experience with family estrangement in episode 7, this mother-daughter duo now shares how God continues to use their passions to help the community at large. From a joyful ministry for special needs adults to caring for those who are homebound, this episode is full of hope, redemption, and practical ministry inspiration.#Christianpodcast #fungrandmapodcast #specialneedsadults #ministryhomebound #motherdaughterstory #abbottelementary

What happens when family life doesn’t look the way you hoped—but God still shows up with purpose?In this heartfelt and hope-filled episode of the Fun Grandma Podcast, we sit down with mother-daughter duo Debbie Kyes and Rachel Ayers to talk honestly about family estrangement, multigenerational living, and building life-giving ministries out of real-life challenges.Debbie and Rachel share their journey of navigating broken relationships, opening their home to multiple generations, and becoming catalysts for ministry in their church and community. Together, they’ve helped launch and support ministries centered on prayer, home visitation, and social gatherings for young adults with special needs—creating spaces where people feel seen, loved, and included.We had so much to talk about we created two episodes out of this conversation.  If you’ve ever wondered, “Can God still use my story?”—this episode is for you.Christian grandmother podcast, faith and family relationships, family estrangement and healing, multigenerational living, special needs ministry, prayer ministry, home visitation ministry, women in ministry, grandma faith podcast, Christian encouragement for grandparents

In this sweet and meaningful episode of the Fun Grandma Podcast, Susan is joined by two very special guests—her grandchildren BreeElla and Jaxsen, who live with their parents, Brooke and Justin, on the beautiful Washington coast.Together, they gently step into a hard but important conversation: grieving the loss of a grandparent. With honesty beyond their years, BreeElla and Jaxsen share what grief has felt like for them, what has helped, and how families can talk about loss in ways that feel safe and loving.Susan also demonstrates how to use a conversation guide from Axis.org, modeling practical tools grandparents, parents, and caregivers can use to create space for meaningful dialogue—especially around big emotions and life-changing experiences.This episode is filled with sincerity, kindness, and surprising insight. It’s a reminder that children often understand far more than we expect—and that when grandparents slow down and listen, healing conversations can happen.Whether you’re a grandparent walking alongside grieving grandchildren, or someone who wants to foster deeper connection across generations, this episode will encourage your heart and equip you with gentle, practical tools for connection.Grandparenting, Grief and Loss, Faith and Family, Conversations with Kids, Christian Parenting, Emotional Health, Axis.org, Fun Grandma Podcast

Running behind this Christmas…? well you are in good company.  (At least we think we are good company! - LOL!) But don’t worry—whether you’re sipping that first cup of cocoa or rummaging through wrapping paper at midnight on Christmas Eve, Susan and Shelleigh have simple, heartfelt, ideas that will help you truly connect with the people you love. So grab a cup of something warm and pull your favorite people close—this episode is your last-minute lift toward a Christmas filled with shared laughter, and unforgettable memories.#FunGrandma #ChristmasConnection #IntentionalFamilyTimeWe are not affiliates "yet" - but here are some links to all the ideas mentioned here: https://www.fun-grandma.com/fun-g-blog/links-to-s2-ep-5-ideas

You don’t need to be a grandparent to like this listen as we sit down with the wonderful Ronda Laybourn for a heart-felt conversation about the joys of family. We laugh, we cry, and we learn — as Ronda shares warm stories about her family, reflects on life in retirement, and reveals how to keep family bonds strong. We suspect you will be inspired by what Ronda is learning and her willingness to keep growing.  Whether you’re a grandparent, a parent, or just someone who just needs some encouragement, this episode will leave you feeling uplifted and reminded of what really matters.Polar Express Ride Hood Riverhttps://www.mthoodrr.com/train-rides/polar-express-christmas-train/Fun Grandma Website:https://www.fun-grandma.com“grandparents podcast”, “grandparenting stories”, “retirement and family”, “keeping family bonds strong”, “fun grandma podcast”. “grandchildren memories”, “family connection tips”, “grandparenting advice”, “retirement reflections”, “multi-generational family stories”

In this inspiring episode of Fun Grandma, we talk to Michelle King, founder and director of the LC Valley Youth Resource Center in Lewiston, Idaho. Michelle shares her heartwarming story of being a grandma with a mission—offering love, stability, and belonging to vulnerable youth who don’t have a safe place to call home. She also tells us of her new initiative to provide for homeless youth 18-21 to launch successfully into adulthood. It was an honor to visit with Michelle who is a fun grandma, innovator and passionate Jesus follower. #grandparent podcast, Fun Grandma podcast, Michelle King LC Valley Youth Resource Center, youth homelessness support, Lewis Clark Youth Resource Center, #inspiring grandma stories, #helping homeless teens, faith and family podcast, community outreach for youth, intergenerational compassion

RCC Valley Girls, a women’s ministry founded by Susan Bramlet, is celebrating 25 years this year.  To mark the occasion we had a party and Fun Grandma interviewed women who have been active in building the Kingdom of God.  We have a few of those interviews right here.  We are pretty sure you will be inspired by these ladies and be reminded that each of us have been blessed to be a blessing! We first talk to Kristi Ottmar about travel tips. She invited you to check out her facebook page for more info:https://www.facebook.com/kottmarNext we speak with Sydney Beeson about rhythms she has in her home as a young mom. Check out her liturgy resource, Liturgies for the Little Years here:https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/58999-liturgies-for-the-little-years/day/1Finally we speak with Martie Beck about grief and the ministry she has started to help others navigate grief. Visit her instagram to add a bit of joy in your life!https://www.instagram.com/tablethymetidbits/#Christian women’s ministry, #faith podcast for women, #women of faith stories, #Fun Grandma Podcast, #building the Kingdom of God, #intergenerational faith, #Christian grandparenting, #ministry celebration, , #grief and healing retreat, #faith and family connection #traveltips #hawaii

Season 2 • Episode 1 — “Heather Lawless is "Leaving a Legacy of Love”Welcome to Season 2 of the Fun-Grandma podcast! We’re kicking off with a powerful, candid, and hope-filled conversation with Heather Lawless, founder and visionary of the Reliance Center (Lewiston, Idaho) and author of We Do Talk About It—a book and workbook designed to help women move from shame into freedom.Not only is Heather a fun grandma but she is a national speaker, and coach. https://www.heather3130.com/ She daily is a "hope dealer" for those who are experiencing an unexpected pregnancy. She is also transparent with her own story. You’ll hear raw, real truths, stories of redemption, and a reminder that you are not alone.Heather’s work has been featured on places like Unashamed with the Robertson Family, where she shared the trajectory of building a ministry and choosing life in the face of challenges Apple Podcasts+2blazetv+2. She’s also appeared on Faith Radio discussing the mission of Reliance Ministries Apple Podcasts. Her book We Do Talk About It: Breaking the Silence on Shame, Sex, and Redemption is already helping women confront hard stories with vulnerability and grace Amazon.If you’ve ever carried a burden of shame, whispered what you could never say, or felt stuck in parts of your past—this episode is for you.—Shame & healing • women’s healing • sexual trauma recovery • faith and freedom • shame to purpose • redeeming narratives • Christian women’s ministry • healing stories • overcoming shame • spiritual transformation • pro-life advocacy • inner healing •grand parenting

Join us as we consider the question: Would you throw yourself a baby shower as a new grandparent? We also get into the rising statistic of those who live 24/7 with their grandkids. We finish up with a reflection over the first season of “Fun Grandma!!” We discuss what we have learned, some of our favorite moments and how our lives have changed for the better. It truly has been a season of learning what it means to connect with the next generation, how to show up when things get hard and trading some really fun suggestions on how to spend time with the kiddos in your life. What would REALLY BE FUN is to hear from YOU, the listener, on what has been helpful, or meaningful. Drop us a comment or share your thoughts on our Speak Pipe account, https://www.speakpipe.com/FunGrandma, Click the link, and leave a recorded message just for us. It’s very easy, and totally free! You could also help us plan for SEASON TWO coming out in early October. Let us know things you would like to hear more about or ideas you’d like to share. Other links to things mentioned in the podcast: Culture Translator [link: https://axis.org/culture-translator/]https://www.morethangrand.com/

The summer season is ripe with opportunities to connect with grandchildren or any child. Susan Bramlet provides us some great ideas & reminders of what is available to us during the summer to make memories together. Be sure to listen to the end for a “reposting” of our conversation with Martie Beck! The ideas she shared in that episode were worth repeating. Whether you're a grandma looking to connect with your grandkids or a parent wanting to create tech-free fun, this episode is packed with simple, nostalgic, and screen-free summer ideas that everyone will love.#SummerFun #FamilyConnection #FunGrandmaPodcast #IntergenerationalActivities #4thOfJuly #GrangevilleIdaho #ThriftShopping #DollarTreeHacks #FamilyOlympics

Val Byrd serves alongside her husband Ian, who is the Apostolic Team Leader of Life Links International. Val encourages leaders all over the world in Christian ministry. She is also a grandparent to 10 grandkids! We discuss navigating change, learning new things & we get insight on how to build family connections. #grandparenting #leadershipcoaching #fungrandma #LifeLinksInternationalReach Val Here for Leadership Coaching: https://lifelinks.org/pro-val-byrd/

Susanne Maynes is an author, blogger, seminary graduate, and of course a fun grandma! This conversation is rich because of Susanne's generosity in sharing about her books, her journey of being a non-traditional student in her 60's and also from the benefits of learning to be yourself in Jesus. Susanne’s website: https://www.susannemaynes.comSusanne’s Substack: https://substack.com/@susannemaynes?utm_source=top-search #grandparenting #devotionals #biblestudy #prophesy

Regular listeners would know the star of our podcast, Parker Sue from past discussions. Parker is Sue’s great grand daughter and she is darling!! [really, really darling!!] In honor of Mother’s Day we had the privilege of having a multi-generational discussion with several of Parker’s people! Her mom Lexi Wimer, her grandmas Kim Bramlet & Angie Wimer and of course Great Grandma Susan! So many great pieces of wisdom are shared and some insight on how a new baby brings new dynamics to a family. #greatgrandchildren #grandparenting #multigeneration #newmom #supportingnewparents #mother’s day

We have a moving conversation with our two friends, April West & Jessica Movius who both have survived breast cancer. They open up about their journeys, coach us up on how to be a good friend to those going through trials and we also fit in some insights on grand parenting of course!! #Cancer survivors, #faith in Jesus, #strength in faith, #healing journey, #support system, cancer recovery, prayer, #overcoming adversity, #spiritual growth, #cancer faith stories, #cancer survival, life after cancer, Christian podcast, #inspirational podcast, hope and healing, faith-based wisdom.

Easter ideas that are fun and meaningful for grandkids or any kids in your life. #Easter #Grandparents #Minno #Yoto To watch us demonstrate these ideas check out the video on youtube: https://youtu.be/IfskDCma3wUFor more info check out the blog: https://www.fun-grandma.com

We brought Shelleigh's mom back to talk about losing your spouse, being a widow and how to best support our friends who lose a spouse. We learn the importance of staying positive, keeping memories alive and to respect that we all grieve differently. Susan has a "go to" author for encouragement. It isn't mentioned in the podcast but you can find out by checking out the Fun Grandma blog here: https://www.fun-grandma.com#fundgrandma, #widow, #memories, #grandparent, #grief

Terry Cox & Susan Mann have spent their lives together. They’ve supported each other as moms, served together and had a mad amount of fun together. Take a listen and you will notice they have gathered a lot of wisdom over the years. They also represent some great organizations your might want to check out…PEO International: https://www.peointernational.org/100+ Women Who Care Confluence:https://100womenconfluence.org/St. Joseph Regional Medical Center:https://www.sjrmc.org/volunteersCheck out the blog for links to a lot of the ideas shared in this episode:https://fun-grandma.com#Fungrandma, #grandparenting, #PEO, #bestfriends

Join us in our final “health series” installment where we get to interview Ange Movius. Both of us have admired Ange’s take on many things; Creativity, Productivity, and of course Health - we think she has some pretty great daily habits and ways of navigating life. We also cover some fun ways to connect with kids! Ange is a mom, ministry leader, seminary student along with being a content creator. She hosts two Youtube Channels: “Crunchy Bible” https://www.youtube.com/@CrunchyBible “Encyclopedia Ange" https://www.youtube.com/@EncyclopediaAnge- we hope you’d take a moment, check them out and subscribe. She's got interesting stuff over there!#FunGrandma #Grandparenting #Crunchy Bible, #Encyclopedia Ange, #Bible Study, #Health, #Crunchy Christians

In this episode we have a conversation on relational health with Pastor & Coach Brad Bramlet. Brad loves well by giving others his time - but with an understanding that we receive love in different ways. He applies the wisdom of Gary Chapman's book, The Five Love Languages in creative and effective ways with his family. We are certain you will enjoy this conversation as much as we did.5 Love Languageshttps://5lovelanguages.com/Axis.Org / Cultural Translatorhttps://axis.org/resource-category/culture-translator/#FunGrandma #grandparents #FiveLoveLanguages #CulturalTranslator

Sue shares a couple of great ideas for connecting with grandkids over Valentines Day. We'd love to hear any ideas you have! How do you make Valentines special for your grands?? Share your ideas with us; in the comments, email [email protected] or record your idea for free on speak pipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/FunGrandma We were honored to talk with guest Keri Rinard. Keri is a great example of someone pursuing a passion so open heartedly it benefits others. Keri Rinard leads "Plugged In Ministry" which represents multiple groups of ladies who gather to read the Bible in a year. They Utilize the One Year Bible: https://www.tyndale.com/sites/oneyearbible/?srsltid=AfmBOooKVrGJq-eQHmO7WLEBXylX5IIWs9W8NDsqKJOk2T4dgyNVPHHK And the Bible Recap: https://www.thebiblerecap.com Would you like to get involved? Contact Keri: [email protected] or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100021206565704 #OneYearBible, #BibleRe-Cap, #Valentines Day, #Valentines for grandkids

Polly is certainly a fun grandma who so enjoys having her grandchildren in her home. She shares some of the activities she and her husband Cliff like to do when the grandkids are with them. We also learned so much about the benefits of halotherapy , a dry sauna that provides the health benefits of salt to treat a long list of ailments. Polly helps us be in awe of how God provides healing through so many of the things around us including, colors, light, and especially salt. For our local listeners Twin Rivers Physical Therapy is providing us a code for 15% off your visit to your first visit to their Wellness Center. Just use the code fungrandma (one word)

Sue and Shelleigh have a conversation about preparing for a New Year and what they might consider with their "Rule of Life" in 2025. It is a small conversation about a big topic. Check out some resources to learn more about a Rule of Life Practicing the Way Tool https://www.practicingtheway.org/ruleoflifebuilder Practicing the Way Study https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0N4Moh2edUo SpeakPipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/FunGrandma

Our friend Martie is the queen of fun! Check out some of the great ideas she has to connect with her grandkids you are going to want to try - even the ones that involve knives and fire.

Join us as we have a conversation with counselor, Nancy Myklebust. We discuss her favorite family traditions and she provides wisdom on how to support those we know who might be grieving this holiday season. Help provide counseling for those who might struggle to pay by supporting Release Counseling: https://www.releasecounseling.org/donations

Today's conversation is full of some great ideas to connect with family over the holidays and we have a terrific visit with one of Susan's grandchildren, Jordan Bramlet.

We discuss fun things to connect as family including Sensory bins, & ideas for Thanksgiving. Check out our blog at https://www.fun-grandma.com for links to items we think you might like. Also connect with us on Speak Pipe with your grandchild story, question or ideas. https://www.speakpipe.com/FunGrandma

Hello! We are Fun Grandma where we hope to build a community around healthy relationships, connecting with kids at their different stages and healthy living.