Are you a grandparent overwhelmed by the high-paced chaos of raising grandchildren, trying to break cycles of crisis and create lasting stability? Do you find yourself burning out, reacting to emergencies instead of building a resilient, nurturing home for the children in your care? Are you searching for practical ways to slow down, reconnect, and find the “campfire moments” that bring warmth and peace to your family?
I’m Laura Brazan, and after becoming the primary caregiver to my grandchildren, I discovered how demanding and isolating kinship care can be. Together with special guest Jake Knox, author of Oak Logs and Gasoline, we’ll explore how to move from the quick fixes of “gasoline” parenting to the steady, reliable warmth of “oak logs.” This episode dives into real stories, trauma-informed strategies, and grounded mentorship for grandparents navigating the unexpected landscape of kinship caregiving. You can read more about Jake and t
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If you are raising grandchildren who are neurodivergent—or navigating the complexities of an FASD diagnosis—you know that traditional parenting advice often falls short. You aren't just looking for tips; you’re looking for a strategy.
That’s why I want to invite you to a special, FREE conference designed specifically for families like ours.
https://www.grandparents-raising-grandchildren.org/
We’re taking a quick break to talk about something that touches many families in our community. If you—or someone you love—is currently raising a grandchild, you know how rewarding, yet demanding, that journey can be.
But here’s something you might not know: there may be government funds specifically designed to support you. For more information on what resources are available, please reach out to Katie B. at katieb@chicagohealthonline.com.
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/grg
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