Summary
In this episode, we explore the intersection of grandparenting and art, particularly focusing on the concept of reductive art. Drawing inspiration from John Maxwell’s leadership principles, I explore how genuine influence isn’t about adding more—it’s about gently removing what doesn’t belong, thereby revealing the beauty and potential already within our children.
Through the metaphor of carving, I explore how grandparents can shape their grandchildren’s development by employing tools like patience, perspective, encouragement, and presence. Our conversation culminates in the idea of legacy and the art of letting go, allowing grandchildren to shine.
Be sure to let me know which tool, patience, perspective, encouragement, or presence YOU are going to sharpen a little more in the coming weeks.
Links
Click here to listen to the fantastic episode I recorded with world-renowned artist, Rodney Hopkins. We discuss wood carving and his grandfather, who lived in the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia.
Check out Dark Hollow Woodworking on Facebook by using this link: https://www.facebook.com/DarkHollowWoodworking
Here is the link to my good friend, Neil Taft’s organization, Caring Grandparents: https://www.caringgrandparents.com/
Click here to visit the John C. Campbell Folk School.
More Than Grand 
Grandfathers have a unique and meaningful role to play in grandchildren’s development, yet they often find themselves behind the scenes, on the sidelines, or less engaged than they’d like to be. This masterclass delivers a playbook for helping grandfathers level up their influence and impact. Listeners to The Cool Grandpa Podcast can receive 40% off this course by using Cool40 at checkout.
Founded in 2011 by Aaron Larsen as a way to honor his grandparents, GrandparentsAcademy.com is the world’s first and only online academy dedicated to helping grandparents grow meaningful relationships and rich legacies with their loved ones.
