Long-Distance Family Dynamics with Helen Ellis
July 7, 2021 | Podcast, with kids
If you’ve stumbled upon this episode, you’re probably already part of a distanced family or you will be as your life as a nomad unfolds. Leaving behind your family can be one of the hardest parts of setting off on your nomadic journey.
In this episode, my guest is Helen Ellis, founder of DistanceFamilies.com and author of Being a Distance Grandparent. Helen discusses some of the common challenges and emotions for distance families (as well as the benefits!), why it’s so important for each generation to understand the others’ perspectives, and lots more.
Helen talks about the different types of communication and the importance of rich encounters with your long-distance loved ones. You’ll learn how to address the guilt that comes with leaving family behind and how to set up your family for success while you’re living your nomadic lifestyle.
Helen’s journey as a long-distance parent and grandparent
In this episode
- Why she did her thesis on distance grandparenting
- The fear people have around this topic
- What a rich encounter is
- The 7 different types of communication
- How to address the guilt that happens with distance
- The 3 H’s of progressive acceptance grandparenting (or parenting)
- How to set the stage for a successful distance family experience
- The benefits of this family dynamic
Resources we talked about
Note: Links with an asterisk are affiliate links, which means you may receive free credit or another bonus and I may earn a small commission or other benefits if you sign up/purchase using that link. There’s no additional cost to you, of course!
- Helen’s book, Being a Distance Grandparent (If you decide to buy it on Amazon, please support Nomadtopia by using our affiliate link!)
Hi, I’m Amy!
I’ve been location-independent since 2004, and after bouncing all over the world I’m currently based in central Mexico with my husband and our twin preschoolers. I founded Nomadtopia to help you create—and thrive in—the location-independent lifestyle that’s right for you.
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