The Grandpa Channel: Grandparent Stories, Family Legacy & Life Lessons

In this episode of The Grandpa Channel, Rivers sits down with longtime family friend Tanya Martin — grandmother, former company president, watercolor beginner, and lifelong learner. Tanya shares what life taught her the hard way: “You made the best decision you could with what you knew.” Don’t ever back anyone into a corner — always give them a way out. Forgiveness is a choice. Be careful what you say about others — speak as if they could overhear. When life throws a wake at you, go slow and steady. From navigating divorce to leading 4,000 employees in human resources, Tanya learned how to handle conflict by asking better questions instead of reacting quickly. She opens up about colon cancer and chemotherapy, and how she survived it by focusing only on the next step — not the entire mountain. She shares moments of humor and humility: A sourdough cake disaster that turned into a lesson. Shoulder pads gone rogue. A staff meeting mishap she simply kept moving through. But at the heart of this episode is something deeper: Grace loosens the machinery of family life. Forgiveness frees the forgiver. And momentum — slow and steady — keeps the boat upright. If you’ve ever faced conflict, disappointment, illness, or just life’s unexpected wake, this episode is a reminder: You don’t have to eat the elephant all at once. Take the next bite. Keep going. Because what a lifetime reveals can steady another.

The summer of 1972. A battered 1967 Oldsmobile station wagon. A teenage son who forgot to shift out of low gear. In this solo episode, Steve tells the story of the night he unknowingly destroyed the family car — and the way his father responded. No yelling. No shaming. No lifelong reminders. Just forgiveness. Through that moment, Steve began to understand something deeper about the nature of God — gracious, merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness. In this episode: The story of the “thrown rods” and broken speedometer A father who modeled quiet restraint What it means to forgive quickly — and forget How we all “throw rods” in our own lives Why repentance and mercy matter The kind of God people see through us We all hope for a Father — earthly and Heavenly — who won’t blow sky high when we mess up. Pull up a chair.

In this moving and often hilarious conversation, Steve Harris (aka Rivers) welcomes Linda Childs, the local crossing guard who’s become a legend to the children (and parents!) she serves. Linda talks about how a “retirement job” turned into a calling—sharing powerful stories of kids who greet her, trust her, and even heal through her gentle presence. You'll hear about: The autistic boy who found his voice at her crosswalk Why she keeps a spreadsheet of every child’s name and birthday How she handles distracted drivers with grit and grace The emotional toll and incredible joy of being seen and showing up for others This is an episode about consistency, kindness, and what it really means to make a difference—without fanfare or filters. 👟 Whether you're a grandparent, a parent, or just someone who needs a reminder of the quiet heroes in our midst, don’t miss this one.

In this episode: – A trip to the ER becomes an unexpected spiritual moment – What “dropping dimes” really means—from sports to the sacred – Stories of Steve’s late father, and why he believes love lives on – How to recognize divine moments in everyday life – A reflection on faith, legacy, and the presence of God in hard times – A beautiful quote from Frederick Buechner on God's subtlety – Why Grandpa Steve believes in a God “in the thick of our day-to-day lives” 🔗 Mentioned in the episode: Planted Media – https://plantedmediaco.com (Use code “RIVERS” for a special discount) 📣 Share this with a friend, grandparent, or someone navigating loss and looking for meaning in the quiet moments.

Episode Overview In a culture obsessed with achievement, titles, and appearances, obituaries quietly tell a different story. In this deeply moving and surprisingly joyful conversation, Steve Harris welcomes Mary McGreevey, the woman behind the viral project Tips From Dead People, to talk about what thousands of obituaries have taught her about life, legacy, empathy, and meaning. Rather than focusing on famous people or polished lives, Mary highlights everyday individuals — complicated, funny, flawed humans — and shows why those stories resonate most. What You’ll Hear in This Episode Why the best obituaries make you wish you’d known the person What really matters at the end of life (hint: it’s not resumes or awards) How reading obituaries can increase empathy — for others and ourselves Why sharing imperfections may be the most loving legacy for kids and grandkids The surprising healing power of honest storytelling during grief How grandpas (and grandmas) can use stories to connect across generations Why “zig‑zag lives” are not failures — they’re often the richest stories Memorable Moments & Ideas “The little things are the big things.” Why we’re all likely forgotten in three generations — and why that’s freeing The power of love/hate lists as a storytelling tool Why honest obituaries can be healthier for grief than polished tributes How stories create empathy across political, cultural, and generational lines About the Guest Mary McGreevey is a writer, speaker, and creator behind Tips From Dead People, where she shares powerful lessons from everyday obituaries. Her work has been featured in Reader’s Digest and beyond, and she speaks to organizations about individuality, empathy, and storytelling. Follow Mary: Instagram / TikTok: @tipsfromdeadpeople Mary's Substack\ Intro Video about Tips From Dead People About The Grandpa Channel The Grandpa Channel is a podcast about capturing the good stuff — stories, wisdom, humor, and hard‑won lessons worth passing down. Hosted by a real grandpa, it’s for kids, parents, and grandkids who believe stories matter because people matter. 📘 Free Resource: Steal Our Best Plays — 10 legacy‑level ideas to help grandpas show up in ways that matter 👉 www.thegrandpachannel.com/playbook Closing Thought If this episode made you laugh, cry, or rethink what really matters — share it with someone who needs a reminder that their story counts.

In today’s episode, Steve Harris takes the mic solo to tell a tale that’s as tender as it is ridiculous. It starts with a beloved baseball cap and ends in a hospital parking lot with a whole lot of love (and a little bit of vomit). Along the way, he reflects on marriage, parenthood, and the wild ride of discovering you’re having triplets. Whether you’re a Red Sox fan or just a fan of good stories, this one’s got all the ingredients: – Unexpected plot twist – A long-suffering but amazing wife – Humor that sneaks in the back door – A reminder that love shows up in the messiest moments 💡 Mentioned in this episode: Planted Media – Tell your life story on video The iconic Fenway Park The quiet heroism of a woman navigating a brutal pregnancy A tribute to the hats we lose and the memories we gain 👴 Leave a review, share it with a friend, or better yet, tell your favorite grandpa.

Some family traditions are planned. Others just happen. Most don’t feel important while you’re living them. Until years later, when you realize they became the memories everyone still talks about. In this special episode of the Grandpa Channel, we’re sharing a collection of stories that highlight how everyday family rituals turn into lasting family memories. You’ll hear about: A hand-built motorhome and Saturday morning Burger King runs Fireworks, popcorn, and the legendary Cul-de-Sac of Fire Diaries written for grandchildren not yet grown Thanksgiving sleepovers with oil paints and blank canvases Steak Sundays, Gramp Camp, and learning to spot the hand of God Mountain Man breakfasts that turn into lifelong traditions And a reminder that laughter might be one of the most important rituals of all These stories aren’t about perfection. They’re about showing up, repeating what matters, and creating spaces where connection can grow. Listen in, reflect on the traditions you inherited, and maybe start one of your own. Because what we repeat with love becomes what our families remember. Listen to the FULL Episodes here:  Wayne Samuelson, 035 The Grandpa Who Taught Me Hard Things Are Holy — A Masterclass in Grandparenting Through Love + Work Wayne Samuelson Brad Harris, 007 Grandparent Stories: McFluffies, Fireworks & Life Lessons with Brad Harris Dan Gibbons, 012 Family Legacy, Journals & Grandfather Wisdom | Dan Gibbons on Faith & Stories Steve Newton, 004 From Hamster Vomit Popsicles to Russian Missions: Connection Built with Love with Steve Newton Mollie Diamond, 024 Poison Pillow, Duddo & Snow Removal: How Grandpas Create Joy in the Small Things with Mollie Diamond Steve Grigg, 030 The Man Behind the Tater Tot: Legacy, Invention, and Grandpa Wisdom with Steve Grigg Dennis Bledsoe, 025 Family Legacy & Faith: How Grandpas Pass Down Resilience, Pioneer Stories, and Listening Paired with Curiosity with Dennis Bledsoe Lee Ann Meads, 022 One-on-One Time, Funny Nicknames, and Finding the Hand of God with Lee Ann Meads Stanley Lear, 021 Keep Smiling: Life Stories, Family Jokes & 94 Years of Wisdom with Stanley Lear I worked with Planted Media to capture my life story, and they made the whole thing easy, meaningful, and actually fun. They’ll handle the setup—you just show up and tell your story. Mention The Grandpa Channel for a nice little discount. Want to Steal Our Best Plays: 10 Ways To Powerfully Connect with Your Grandkids, get the free guide here!

This episode is a little different—and a little sacred. We’re launching The Hotline—a new way to capture the grit, glory, and heart of real-life grandpa stories. Each month, we’ll drop a prompt. You record your voice. We amplify it. To kick things off, Steve shares a recovered recording of his dad, Grandpa Lou, telling his own origin story: How he bribed a sergeant to get married Why Mormon boys made the best bartenders What $78 a month bought in 1950 And why food, faith, and family always fed more than just hunger This is what The Hotline is for—preserving the voices we love before they slip away. 🎤 Want to be part of it? Leave your story here! 🧡 Your story matters. And now, there’s a mic waiting.

In this raw and riveting episode of The Grandpa Channel, Steve Harris sits down with longtime friend and honorary "Urban Huck Finn"—Mike Deraedt. Born and raised on the hard-edged Lower East Side of Detroit, Mike shares powerful stories of survival, loss, resilience, and unexpected transformation. From stealing hubcaps to studying calculus, bouncing at biker bars to teaching science, and surviving Vietnam to raising bright, capable kids—Mike’s life is a study in contrast. He opens up about trauma, redemption, and what it really means to take responsibility, no matter where you come from. Topics include: Growing up fast in Detroit’s toughest neighborhoods Losing his father at age 7 and navigating life solo Military service, trauma, and unexpected academic success How storytelling, honesty, and hard-won empathy shaped his legacy Advice for anyone navigating pain, parenthood, or prejudice 🔗 Want to record your own grandpa story or get featured? Visit plantedmediaco.com and tell them Rivers sent you.   Want to Steal our Best Plays? Get our Free Guide for 10 Ways to Connect Deeply with Your Grandkids here! 

What if the most meaningful stories at Christmastime came not from gift wrap, but from the raw honesty of children sitting on Santa’s lap? In this powerful and unexpected episode of The Grandpa Channel, Rivers (aka Steve Harris) welcomes a real-life Santa who shares the funny, spiritual, and deeply moving stories behind the red suit. From silly sibling rivalries to tear-stained notes from kids asking for peace at home instead of presents, Santa reflects on what he’s learned after decades of listening — really listening — to the hearts of children. We also explore: The surprising #1 thing kids ask for A haunting Christmas wish from an 11-year-old girl Santa’s journey from air traffic controller to spiritual mentor in red velvet What grandpas (and all of us) can do to bring magic and meaning back to modern life Why grandparenting isn’t just for family — and how to “grandpa where you’re planted” Whether you celebrate Christmas or not, this conversation is a beautiful reminder of what it means to see, hear, and lift each other. Let this episode fill you with wonder — and maybe change the way you think about Santa forever. 🎄 Merry Christmas — and may it last all year long.   Steal Our Best Plays: Get the Free Grandpa Channel Guide on How To Connect WIth Your Grandkids here!

What if your most meaningful Christmas gift came from a convicted felon? In this deeply personal episode of The Grandpa Channel, Steve "Rivers" Harris recounts the unraveling of his life during the 2009 holiday season: financial collapse, family stress, deep spiritual discouragement—and the surprising moment of peace that arrived through a tattooed, soulful, gospel-loving inmate named Moses. This story is a powerful reminder that God sees us, loves us, and often sends help through the most unexpected people. You’ll hear about: The triplet car crash that triggered a shame spiral What volunteering in maximum security jail taught Steve about grace The most profound prayer he’s ever heard (and why he cried through the whole thing) The mysterious power of peace, even when it seems God is silent A special message of hope for this Christmas season PLUS: A shoutout to Planted Media for helping grandpas record their life stories on video — check them out at plantedmediaco.com and mention “Rivers” for a Grandpa Channel discount! STEAL OUR BEST PLAYS: 10 Ways to Powerfully Connect With Your Grandkids, Free guide here!

In this heartwarming and wisdom-packed episode, Rivers (Steve Harris) chats with Dr. Katherine Schlaerth—a  geriatrician& family physician, author, and grandmother of 21—about what it means to show up for your family across generations. Together they explore: How to stay healthy and active so your grandkids can climb all over you (literally) Why grandpas are powerful culture-keepers The surprising impact of rituals, letters, and language How faith, storytelling, and showing up build unshakeable legacies You’ll hear about Bones the skeleton, cousins camp, why letters still matter, and how grandpas transfer joy and lifelong passions through example. This one’s full of heart, humor, and helpful takeaways. Mentioned in this episode: Dr. Schlaerth’s book: The Way Our Bodies Age Planted Media video legacy services (use code RIVERS for a Grandpa Channel discount) Grab our free guide: Steal Our Best Plays- 10 Ways to Powerfully Connect with Your Grandkids  🎧 Listen, laugh, and leave a review!

What does it mean to be a joyful disciple as a grandpa? In this heartfelt and humorous episode, Rivers (aka Steve Harris) sits down with his longtime friend Brent Nielsen, a father of six, grandfather to 26, and world traveler with stories and wisdom to spare. Brent shares how he and his wife Marcia have stayed deeply connected to their growing family — even while living halfway across the world. From weekly mission calls from New Zealand to car ride storytelling marathons, you'll hear powerful insights on intentional grandparenting, legacy, and faith. They discuss: Building one-on-one relationships with 26 grandkids Grandparenting from abroad (and how Zoom became sacred ground) What he learned from family-centered cultures around the world How storytelling becomes a legacy Teaching faith through joy (and campfire songs) The advice he’d give his grandkids... and his own father If you're looking for real connection, spiritual grounding, and a few good laughs — this one’s for you.   Show Notes (with SEO & Keywords): Episode Highlights: [00:34] Rivers’ call to action to record your life story — and why your grandkids want your corny jokes and rugged voice on video [01:26] Meet Brent Nielsen: Grandpa to 26, friend for 50 years, and servant-leader in global church service Why “joyful discipleship” is the ultimate goal for family life and faith Parenting and grandparenting while living in New Zealand and the Philippines Maintaining relationships with grandkids across continents — and how a simple Monday ritual made all the difference The surprising impact of storytelling on long road trips (and how grandkids remember every detail) Why funny + faithful is Brent’s grandfathering sweet spot — and how campfire songs play a starring role Advice for grandpas: Follow grandma’s lead, stay joyful, and stay present What to say to a worried teen granddaughter in a chaotic world The power of missionary letters, personal traditions, and being a fountain of peace for the rising generation Key Takeaways: Grandfathers have unmatched influence through intentional connection Stories are your superpower — use them early and often Faith doesn’t have to be formal — let joy and fun lead the way Grandparenting is legacy-building in real time

What does it mean to be a grandfather today — and how has that role changed over time? In this heartfelt episode of The Grandpa Channel, host Steve Harris (aka “Rivers”) welcomes legendary historian, author, and beloved grandfather Richard Lyman Bushman for a conversation filled with timeless wisdom, personal reflection, and multigenerational insight. Now 94, Bushman shares his lived experience as a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather — and opens up about the joys, challenges, and surprises that come with growing a family legacy. Together, they explore what makes grandparenting so vital, how storytelling shapes connection, and why being fully present might be a grandfather’s greatest gift. 🎓 Richard Bushman is Professor Emeritus of History at Columbia University and author of Joseph Smith: Rough Stone Rolling. He’s been called “one of the most important scholars of American religious history” and continues to mentor and inspire across generations. 🔍 What You’ll Hear in This Episode: 02:00 — Life in NYC & being surrounded by 20 grandchildren (and counting!) 05:00 — How the role of grandfathers has changed over the last century 08:00 — Lessons from his own grandfathers 10:00 — What he hopes his grandkids would say about him 13:00 — The power of stories, family lore, and being known 18:00 — Prophetic blessings and how he connects spiritually with his grandkids 25:00 — What inspires him from American history 30:00 — What he would tell his 34-year-old self 32:00 — A final message for grandfathers everywhere 💡 Key Takeaways: Grandfathers today have more time and more tools to connect than ever before Storytelling is how we pass down not just facts — but who we are Being a grandfather isn’t just biology — it’s a calling of love, guidance, and presence “They need to feel who you are” — Bushman on spending real time with grandkids Don’t underestimate the power of small, everyday moments 🧭 Ready to start capturing your story on video? 🎥 Visit PlantedMediaCo.com and tell them Rivers sent you for a Grandpa Channel discount! 📺 Subscribe to The Grandpa Channel on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify — and share this episode with someone you love. Steal Our Best Plays: 10 Ways to Connect With Your Grandkids here!

Bill Mansell — longtime neighbor, father, and grandfather — joins Steve (“Rivers”) on The Grandpa Channel for a beautiful conversation about what it truly means to be a grandparent in today’s world. From growing up knowing all four of his grandparents to now becoming the “older generation” himself, Bill shares stories full of humor, heart, and hope. He talks about the value of multi-generational homes, why being a peaceful grandparent matters, and how the real gift we give grandkids is simply showing up with love and presence. 💡 You'll hear: Why mundane moments with grandparents become magical The surprising thing Bill’s dad did every morning for him The lesson behind a “snowball fight” that destroyed a backyard Thoughts on sharing faith with grandkids — gently and authentically What he’d tell his 32-year-old self about parenthood, grandkids, and life Whether you're a grandparent, parent, or someone navigating family relationships — this one will leave you feeling seen, softened, and inspired. Steal Our Best Plays: 10 Powerful Ways to Connect With Your Grandkids

In this heartfelt and history-rich episode, Rivers (Steve Harris) interviews Kathy Nunn, a retired educator and author living in Melbourne, Australia. Kathy shares her journey from Wales to Papua New Guinea to Australia — and the beautiful creative project she completed with her grandson: co-authoring a book inspired by Welsh legends. In this episode, you’ll hear: How Kathy and her grandson co-wrote The Welsh Warrior’s Wonder Why everyday stories from your past matter more than you think A fascinating legend about Welsh explorers arriving in America before Columbus How to pass down ancestral heritage through story and imagination The emotional ripple effect of engaged grandparenting Why “boring” memories are actually gold to your grandkids Whether you're a grandparent, a parent, or someone who values legacy, this episode is a warm invitation to capture and share the stories that connect us across generations. 👀 Mentioned in this episode: Kathy’s pen name: Ariane Wen Nunn The Mandan Tribe and Welsh coracles Kathy’s upcoming plan to write a book with her granddaughter, too And a whole lot of Grandpa Channel heart. Link to Kathy's Book she wrote with her grandson 📥 Want more ideas to connect with your grandkids? Download our free guide: “Steal Our Best Plays: 10 Ways to Connect with Your Grandkids” —  🎧 Listen now and be inspired to tell (or write!) your story.

This episode is your audio companion to our most popular resource: 👉 “Steal Our Best Plays: Top 10 Ways to Connect with Your Grandkids.” These aren’t made-up theories — they’re field-tested, story-backed plays from real grandpas (and grandmas!) who’ve shared their secrets on the show. Each “play” includes: A clip from a real Grandpa Channel guest A simple, repeatable action you can take A few twists to make it your own 🧠 Whether you're a brand-new grandpa or a seasoned pro, you'll walk away with fresh ideas, deeper purpose — and probably a few good laughs. 🛠 Download the full companion PDF here (You’ll get all 10 plays, step-by-step instructions, and a few hidden gems we didn’t have time to share.) Guests Included in today's episode: Mollie Diamond EP: 024, Brent Dial EP: 002, Wayne Samuelson EP: 035, Ken Walters EP: 034, Steve Newton EP: 004, Brian Golding EP: 018, LeeAnn Meads EP:022, Lee Crayk EP: 026, Ty Yagi EP: 013, & Dan Gibbons EP: 012

Welcome back to the Grandpa Channel — where grandpas share stories, grandkids get curious, and legacy lives on. In this special Thanksgiving episode, Rivers (Steve Harris) shares a deeply personal story — one that’s equal parts vulnerable, redemptive, and quietly powerful. Born with a cleft lip in 1955, Steve spent years undergoing surgeries and orthodontic work. But it wasn’t until a chance encounter during his mission in Finland — with a little girl on a cold October day — that all of his mother’s teachings about gratitude came flooding in. This episode isn’t just a story about scars or surgeries. It’s about emotional breakthroughs. The kind that reshape how we see the world — and our place in it. In this episode: How Steve’s mom taught him gratitude with relentless kindness His fear of learning a foreign language — and how he overcame it The exact moment he “melted into a pool of gratitude” A gentle challenge to reflect on your life’s turning points Whether you’re a grandparent, parent, or simply someone reflecting on your own path — this story will stick with you long after the episode ends.

In this episode of The Grandpa Channel, we’re joined by Russ Miller — master storyteller, retired accountant, cowboy at heart, and proud grandpa. Russ shares: What it was like growing up as a “feral child” in rural Utah His father’s incredible life as a world-renowned saddle maker (with clients like Robert Redford and Willie Nelson!) What it meant to grow up around rodeos, leatherwork, and cowboy values The legacy of “Wild Bill” Miller — his infamous saloon ride-in and connections to Butch Cassidy’s gang The difference between real grandpa stories and “cardboard cutouts” How trauma shaped generations — and why Russ never drank or smoked Life lessons he’d give to his 30-year-old self (and his grandkids today) His superpower as a grandpa — and his kryptonite too What to say when grandkids ask, “Is there still hope in the world?” A rich, tender, and often hilarious conversation about what it means to live, learn, and leave something behind.

In this special episode of The Grandpa Channel, Rivers (Steve Harris) is joined by bestselling author and grandmother of 39 (!) Bracha Goetz to talk about a topic that changes everything: gratitude. You’ll hear stories about: How Rivers’ own mom instilled an “attitude of gratitude” Bracha’s teenage search for meaning and how gratitude saved her from addiction The surprising Jewish root of the word “gratitude” Easy ways grandparents can nurture thankful, joyful kids (without preaching) Plus: 📚 The children’s book that helps eliminate entitlement — without a single “lesson.” 🧠 Why rewiring gratitude can start with one sticky-note, bedtime ritual, or Friday night question. This one’s tender, timeless, and full of ideas you’ll want to steal. Bracha's website: https://www.growingimpactpublications.com/ Books Mentioned: The Mother Who Always Said Yes & The Happiness Box