The Grand Balance: A Working Grandmas Podcast

Episode 38: Grandma’s on Balancing Priorities and Lifting Each Other Up

In this episode of The Grand Balance, Angela and Sharon kick off a brand new segment called “Don’t Get Us Started,” where they share lighthearted takes on the everyday things that confuse and annoy us all. From there, the conversation shifts to something deeper: the juggling balls theory—the idea that in life, some priorities are like glass balls (fragile and precious, such as health and family) while others are like rubber balls (able to bounce back if dropped). Angela and Sharon unpack how to recognize the difference, protect what truly matters, and give yourself permission to let go of the rest.
The episode closes with a powerful reminder about the importance of women uplifting women—in the workplace, in friendships, and in life. Because when we support one another, balance becomes easier and everyone rises together.

Episode 37: Grandmas Walk the Talk

In this episode of The Grand Balance, Angela and Sharon reflect on what it means to wear many hats—professional, parental, and grandparental—all in one jam-packed week. From last-minute travel, big work presentations, and the excitement of another grandbaby on the way, it’s a whirlwind only a working grandma can understand.
But the episode doesn’t stop there. The grandmas open up about imposter syndrome, the challenge of being one of the only women in male-dominated industries, and the importance of teaching the next generation of girls—and granddaughters—to use their voices with confidence. They also explore the power of women supporting women and the value of surrounding yourself with others who reflect your strengths.
Packed with real talk, humor, heart, and wisdom, this episode reminds listeners that the balance may never be perfect—but it’s always worth the juggle.
Sharon's Fabulous Find: Hiccapop Mattress Pad

Episode 36: Building Bridges with Daughter in Laws

Welcome to another insightful episode of The Grand Balance, where Angela and Sharon dive into the ever-evolving dynamics between grandmothers, daughters, and daughters-in-law. They explore the natural yet complex dynamics that arise between maternal and in-law grandparents, grounded by family history, proximity, and personal relationships.
The episode emphasizes the significance of respectful communication, setting boundaries, and dispelling common misconceptions to ensure access and positive engagement with grandchildren. By drawing insights from a survey of fellow grandmothers, this discussion unveils practical ways to nurture a harmonious family environment. Join this engaging dialogue for valuable tips on reinforcing a supportive and inclusive family network.

Episode 35: Welcoming a New Sibling: Tips for Parents and Grandparents

In this warm and insightful episode of The Grand Balance, Angela and Sharon celebrate the arrival of a new baby girl and explore the beautiful — and sometimes bumpy — transition that comes with introducing a newborn to an older sibling. With heartfelt stories and expert-backed strategies, they reflect on the vital role grandparents play in helping the whole family adjust during this tender time.
Shifting gears, the hosts dive into an important conversation about California’s proposed Phone-Free School Act, a groundbreaking policy aimed at reducing smartphone use in schools to support student mental health and focus. Angela and Sharon offer thoughtful perspectives on how this legislation could reshape the school experience for kids — and what it means for families trying to stay connected in a digital world.
Tune in for an episode that blends real-life parenting moments with timely conversations about raising well-rounded kids in today’s ever-evolving landscape.
 
Sharon's Fabulous Find: Rotating Carseat
 

Episode 34: Goodbyes and New Beginnings: Pet Loss and Preschool Prep for Parents and Grandparents

In this emotional episode of The Grand Balance, Angela and Sharon grapple with the experience of losing a beloved pet and the impact it has on young children. They delve into age-appropriate ways to explain and process pet loss, offering heartfelt advice for helping kids through grief.
The episode also covers essential tips for transitioning into the summer months, including exploring useful strategies to prepare children for preschool, emphasizing the importance of reading, motor skills, and social readiness.
Tune in for a rich conversation filled with practical advice and touching personal stories.
Episode Notes: Sharon's Fabulous Find: Solar Buddies Sunscreen Applicator

Episode 33: Dual Language for the Win - A Guide for Parents and Grandparents

Welcome to The Grand Balance podcast, where we explore the unique intersection of work and family from a grandmother's perspective. In this episode, Sharon and Angela delve into the world of dual language education with special guest Sylvia Ulloa, a seasoned educator and program manager in the multilingual education department at the San Diego Unified School District. Sylvia shares her journey and passion for teaching, offering invaluable insights into the benefits of dual language programs and answers questions that hesitant parents may have. Join us for an enlightening conversation and how grandparents can support their grandchildren in these programs.
 
Episode Notes: 
 
https://www.cal.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/WhatParentsWanttoKnow.pdf
https://www.edweek.org/teaching-learning/opinion-is-language-immersion-right-for-my-child/2016/03

Episode 32: Answering the Working Grandmas Inbox Pt 2

Welcome to a lively episode of The Grand Balance, where Angela and Sharon dig into listener questions that echo the challenges many grandmas face. This conversation addresses varied questions such as techniques for working grandmas to get better sleep, navigating the sensitive subject of perceived favoritism among grandchildren, delving into the challenges pleasing the whole family while accommodating the grandchildren's strict sleep schedules, and more.
This episode promises laughter, understanding, and practical advice for every listener!
 
Episode Notes: 
FlavCity Sleep Gummies
Sharon's Fabulous Find: CorneaCare Rest Soothing Eye Compress

Episode 31: Financial Wisdom with The Financial Maven Samantha Besnoff

Welcome to another enriching episode of The Grand Balance, where hosts dive deep into the financial intricacies faced by working grandmas. In this episode, Sharon and and Angela bring a dose of wisdom by engaging with Samantha Besnoff, an esteemed CPA and the voice behind Your Financial Maven podcast.
During this insightful discussion, Samantha shares her journey into podcasting, unveils smart money strategies specifically for grandmas, and explores the psychological aspects of financial management. The conversation touches upon budgeting, saving strategies, the role of emotions in spending, and effective money management in midlife, as well as introducing the innovative concept of "dating your money."
 Whether you're keen on learning new budgeting techniques or simply wish to become more financially savvy, this episode promises to be both educational and entertaining.

Episode 30: Debunking Grandma's Myths: What Really Holds Up?

In this episode of The Grand Balance, Sharon and Angela delve into a lively discussion about popular old wives' tales and evaluate their validity with a modern perspective. They also explore the evolution of parenting and grandparenting, discussing how rules and routines have shifted across generations. Tune in for a mix of humor, personal stories, and factual revelations as these grandmas share their insights.

Episode 29: Childhood Changes: Keeping up with the Times

Welcome to "The Grand Balance," where host grandmas explore the intersection of work, family, and the evolving challenges faced by grandparents. In this episode, Sharon and Angela shed light on the dramatic biological and psychological shifts observed in children over the past three decades. They discuss the early onset of puberty, the impact of body fat, stress, and environmental factors, and why it's crucial for grandparents to be informed.
The conversation also touches on contemporary concerns like children's decreasing sleep hours, increased screen time, and the resulting health impacts such as nearsightedness and reduced grip strength. They address social changes, such as declining birth rates leading to smaller households and how these shifts affect children's social skills and reliance on adult support.
Further, the podcast delves into the paradox of modern youth experiencing "delayed adulting," staying home longer due to economic pressures and societal demands for higher education. Sharon and Angela emphasize the importance of grandparents playing a supportive role in their grandchildren's lives by providing stability amidst these rapid changes.