Gen X Juggler Podcast

Deb Foster

Yesterday, we were the fun-loving feral kids of the 80’s, and today we’re grownup Gen Xers juggling the many joys and challenges of midlife. That happened fast! This podcast covers topics that matter most to us as we navigate the uncharted waters of midlife and all that comes with it. We’ll reminisce about the good old days and also share stories and valuable conversations that help us make the most of the here and now. Want to be a guest on Gen X Juggler Podcast? Send Deb Foster a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/genxjuggler

  1. 6d ago

    No Contact: Grieving the Relationship without Losing Hope, with Candi Morris

    Today on the Gen X Juggler podcast, Deb interviews Candi Morris, creator of the Estranged and Rearranged podcast, about supporting parents whose adult children go no contact. Candi shares her personal estrangement from her 35-year-old son since July 2022, the loss of contact with her granddaughter, and the earlier death of an adult daughter, describing estrangement as “ambiguous grief.” She discusses why estrangement feels more prevalent, citing social media algorithms, cultural focus on the self, media coverage, and a reported 38% of adults estranged from a family member. They address impacts on grandchildren and family legacy, missing grace and forgiveness, links to divorce, tragedy, therapy advice, and spouse/partner influence. Candi urges parents to hold hope for reconciliation while continuing to live, improve themselves, and seek support via estrangedandrearranged.com and free weekly Zoom groups.   00:00 No Contact Rising 00:46 Meet Candi Morris 02:10 Her Estrangement Story 03:54 From TikTok to Podcast 08:37 Ambiguous Grief Explained 09:03 Why Estrangement Is Trending 14:53 Legacy and Grandkids 20:02 Grace and Growth 23:05 Trauma Divorce and Therapy 29:28 Building Resilience Again 33:48 Spouse Influence and Alienation 37:22 Hope Without Waiting 40:44 Where to Find Support 41:31 Final Encouragement Links to Candi Morris: estrangedandrearranged.com https://www.instagram.com/estrangedandrearranged?igsh=a3puenZiYWh4YWdu https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1C1ARkRgfr/?   For speaking and event inquiries, please contact Deb at: Deb@GenXJuggler.com   **Want to be a guest on Gen X Juggler Podcast? Send Deb Foster a message      on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/genxjuggler   Links to Gen X Juggler: https://youtube.com/@genxjuggler?si=GdErb9FBtfInJMTC https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gen-x-juggler-podcast/id1792338965 https://www.facebook.com/share/1CLEHVGu9H/?mibextid=wwXIfr https://www.instagram.com/gen_x_juggler?igsh=MXRvb3hyZDA4b3MzMQ== https://www.tiktok.com/@debfoster88?_t=ZP-8yp0VGqHois&_r=1   **THIS PODCAST IS FOR ENTERTAINMENT AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED PROFESSIONAL ADVICE IN ANY FIELD INCLUDING LEGAL, MEDICAL, FINANCIAL OR MENTAL HEALTH. THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY GUESTS ON THIS PODCAST ARE THEIR OWN AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THE VIEWS OF THE HOST AND/OR PRODUCERS.**

  2. Aug 6

    GXJ Replay: When Faith Leaders Burn Out: Identity, Expectations & Healing in the Wilderness, with Dustin Kleinschmidt

    Today on the Gen X Juggler podcast, Deb welcomes Dustin Kleinschmidt, an author, coach, and former pastor with over 25 years of ministry experience and the author of The Wilderness Way: Finding Freedom in Life’s Fractures.   Dustin shares his unconventional path into ministry and how returning to a Texas church after a senior pastor’s affair and COVID-era turmoil led to years of crisis leadership, resignation, and a severe spiral into depression and anxiety.   He describes how God challenged him to examine his unmet expectations behind the disappointment and reframed this season in the “wilderness” between rescue and the promised land, where beauty and brokenness coexist and God is present.   They discuss ministry’s performance pressures, identity and significance, setting values and boundaries, and Dustin’s coaching approach focused on spiritual, emotional, relational, and organizational health, plus his book, workbook, and upcoming music release.   00:00 Burnout And Calling 00:59 Meet Dustin Kleinschmidt 01:38 Gen X Midlife Weight 02:33 Ministry Origin Story 06:37 From Music To Pastor 10:17 Church Crisis And Collapse 11:58 Resignation And Spiral 14:29 Disappointment Expectations 18:16 Wilderness Way Framework 23:32 Tenderness Through Suffering 25:58 Leader Pressure And Masks 28:12 Performing For Expectations 29:50 Feeling Far From God 30:54 The Thing Underneath 31:54 Significance And Identity 36:12 Idols And True Rest 38:24 Burnout In Creative Work 41:03 Redefining Values And Boundaries 43:33 Coaching Approach Explained 46:21 Book Music And Where To Find 48:47 Closing Reflections And Thanks   Links to Dustin Kleinschmidt: www.dustinkleinschmidt.com   https://www.instagram.com/dustinkschmidt?igsh=MW9lMzQyMHZlcnhjbA==   https://www.instagram.com/walkingthewildernessway?igsh=MXV0cnl4b3dvMXl4bA==   https://www.facebook.com/share/18Xwj2Qn9G/?mibextid=wwXIfr   Find Dustin's book, The Wilderness Way: Finding Freedom in Life's Fractures, at: https://a.co/d/00eFUMq7   And pick up the accompanying workbook as well at: https://a.co/d/0fhV3pB1         **For speaking and event enquiries, please contact Deb at: Deb@GenXJuggler.com   **Want to be a guest on Gen X Juggler Podcast? Send Deb Foster a message      on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/genxjuggler   StatGuardPlus Go to: https://StatGuardPlus.com Use promo code: GenX10 to get 10% off Be sure to join Deb for “Talk-O Bout it Tuesday,” a weekly live session on the Gen X Juggler Podcast Facebook page where we talk about this week's episode, connect, and have a fun conversation, Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m. Central Time. Links to Gen X Juggler: https://youtube.com/@genxjuggler?si=GdErb9FBtfInJMTC https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gen-x-juggler-podcast/id1792338965 https://www.facebook.com/share/1CLEHVGu9H/?mibextid=wwXIfr https://www.instagram.com/gen_x_juggler?igsh=MXRvb3hyZDA4b3MzMQ== https://www.tiktok.com/@debfoster88?_t=ZP-8yp0VGqHois&_r=1 **THIS PODCAST IS FOR ENTERTAINMENT AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED PROFESSIONAL ADVICE IN ANY FIELD INCLUDING LEGAL, MEDICAL, FINANCIAL OR MENTAL HEALTH. THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY GUESTS ON THIS PODCAST ARE THEIR OWN AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THE VIEWS OF THE HOST AND/OR PRODUCERS.**

  3. Jul 30

    64. The Baggage We Carry: Friendship, Faith, and Letting Go of What Was with Debbie Avinger

    Deb returns to the Gen X Juggler podcast’s “back to basics” roots and welcomes lifelong friend Debbie Avinger, who previously appeared in the early audio-only days.   They reflect on 42+ years of friendship, midlife pressures, parenting stages, and how difficult seasons can pile up. Their conversation centers on “baggage”—personal burdens and the unseen burdens others carry—and how to respond without regret by leaning on God and community.   They discuss Christ-centered tools such as breath prayers using scripture, the nervous system’s tendency to replay “what was,” and the challenge of self-isolation, pride, and shame when struggling. Debbie shares a short piece, “The River of Was,” about giving burdens and even “crowns” to God, who “was, is, and is to come,” emphasizing daily mercy and taking life one day at a time.   00:00 Back to Basics 00:46 Meet Debbie Avinger 02:46 Lifelong Friendship 04:37 Kids and Teaching 06:47 Hard Seasons Ahead 08:01 Baggage and Jesus 11:02 Breath Prayer Practice 16:49 Prompted to Reach Out 24:19 Isolation and Pride 32:49 River of Was 38:45 Living in the Is 42:31 Closing Thoughts   Debbie Avinger's son has a YouTube Channel! Find it on Youtube @Mr.Shmeeshmoe   For speaking and event inquiries, please contact Deb at: Deb@GenXJuggler.com   **Want to be a guest on Gen X Juggler Podcast? Send Deb Foster a message      on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/genxjuggler   Links to Gen X Juggler: https://youtube.com/@genxjuggler?si=GdErb9FBtfInJMTC https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gen-x-juggler-podcast/id1792338965 https://www.facebook.com/share/1CLEHVGu9H/?mibextid=wwXIfr https://www.instagram.com/gen_x_juggler?igsh=MXRvb3hyZDA4b3MzMQ== https://www.tiktok.com/@debfoster88?_t=ZP-8yp0VGqHois&_r=1   **THIS PODCAST IS FOR ENTERTAINMENT AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED PROFESSIONAL ADVICE IN ANY FIELD INCLUDING LEGAL, MEDICAL, FINANCIAL OR MENTAL HEALTH. THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY GUESTS ON THIS PODCAST ARE THEIR OWN AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THE VIEWS OF THE HOST AND/OR PRODUCERS.**

  4. Jul 23

    GXJ Replay: Burned Out, Stuck, and Dreaming of More? How to Leave Corporate and Find Your True Calling with Shelley McIntyre

    This show features Shelley McIntyre, a certified coach specializing in helping Gen X professionals leave corporate life and start creative ventures that align with their values.   Shelley discusses recognizing signs that it's time for a career change, the importance of reconnecting with one's values and essence, and practical steps for making a successful transition. She also shares stories of clients who have found fulfillment in new careers and offers advice for others contemplating a similar move.   00:00 Gen X Crossroads 01:00 Meet Shelly McIntyre 01:49 Stuck Between Roles 03:17 Build a New Foundation 03:45 Rediscover Values 05:15 Values in Action 09:04 Loyalty Myth Breaks 12:08 Start Before Burnout 12:53 Essence Exercise 15:54 Take Your Power Back 17:55 Call Your Network 19:41 Delegate What Drains You 20:29 Leap Story Begins 21:24 Joy Led Career Pivot 21:56 Ballroom Dance Handbook 23:10 Your Interests Matter 24:46 Signs Its Time To Pivot 28:00 Stop Negative Bonding 29:55 First Practical Steps 32:45 Build Your Support Network 35:56 Offgassing After Quitting 39:09 Where To Find Shelly   Links to Shelley McIntyre:   https://burnthemapcoaching.com/   https://www.instagram.com/burnthemapcoaching/   https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelley-mcintyre?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app   For speaking and event inquiries, please contact Deb at: Deb@GenXJuggler.com   **Want to be a guest on Gen X Juggler Podcast? Send Deb Foster a message      on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/genxjuggler   Links to Gen X Juggler: https://youtube.com/@genxjuggler?si=GdErb9FBtfInJMTC https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gen-x-juggler-podcast/id1792338965 https://www.facebook.com/share/1CLEHVGu9H/?mibextid=wwXIfr https://www.instagram.com/gen_x_juggler?igsh=MXRvb3hyZDA4b3MzMQ== https://www.tiktok.com/@debfoster88?_t=ZP-8yp0VGqHois&_r=1   **THIS PODCAST IS FOR ENTERTAINMENT AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED PROFESSIONAL ADVICE IN ANY FIELD INCLUDING LEGAL, MEDICAL, FINANCIAL OR MENTAL HEALTH. THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY GUESTS ON THIS PODCAST ARE THEIR OWN AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THE VIEWS OF THE HOST AND/OR PRODUCERS.**

  5. Jul 16

    GXJ Replay: Midlife, Masculinity, and Meaning with Maxim Shapiro

    This week on the Gen X Juggler podcast, Deb welcomes life coach Maxim Shapiro about men, midlife crisis, and authenticity in a culture redefining masculinity. Shapiro shares his personal journey from lifelong depression and playing small—shaped in part by being an only child of Soviet immigrants whose parents kept him sheltered—toward reclaiming risk, self-respect, and an “inner hero,” sparked by a coach who later became his romantic partner.   They discuss how Gen X wasn’t taught to trust intuition, how midlife crises can happen despite external success when accomplishments don’t match inner contentment, and the importance of living a genuine rather than performative life. The conversation also covers “toxic masculinity” versus masculinity, men and women as complementary rather than competing, shifting gender roles, and family choices. 00:00 Gen X Midlife Shift 01:05 Meet Coach Max 02:19 Depression And Playing Small 04:59 A Wake Up At Forty 07:33 Men And Women Complement 09:53 Roots Of Fear And Safety 13:11 Finding Intuition And Authenticity 18:10 Sponsor Thermostat Wars 19:02 What Midlife Crisis Really Is 21:38 Authentic vs Performative Life 24:08 From Self Discovery to Coaching 25:29 Reframing Toxic Masculinity 30:25 Men and Women Same Team 32:40 Bear vs Man Debate 35:14 Authenticity and Family Choices 39:47 Midlife Wake Up Call 40:33 Where to Find Maxim 41:29 Closing Thoughts   Links to Maxim Shapiro:   Forwardmotioncoach.ing https://youtube.com/@maximshapiro?si=vXc4-upO3666bCJ9 https://www.facebook.com/share/182xKB5N1m/?mibextid=wwXIfr  https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxim-shapiro-mba?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app For speaking and event enquiries, please contact Deb at: Deb@GenXJuggler.com   **Want to be a guest on Gen X Juggler Podcast? Send Deb Foster a message      on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/genxjuggler   Links to Gen X Juggler: https://youtube.com/@genxjuggler?si=GdErb9FBtfInJMTC https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gen-x-juggler-podcast/id1792338965 https://www.facebook.com/share/1CLEHVGu9H/?mibextid=wwXIfr https://www.instagram.com/gen_x_juggler?igsh=MXRvb3hyZDA4b3MzMQ== https://www.tiktok.com/@debfoster88?_t=ZP-8yp0VGqHois&_r=1   **THIS PODCAST IS FOR ENTERTAINMENT AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED PROFESSIONAL ADVICE IN ANY FIELD INCLUDING LEGAL, MEDICAL, FINANCIAL OR MENTAL HEALTH. THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY GUESTS ON THIS PODCAST ARE THEIR OWN AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THE VIEWS OF THE HOST AND/OR PRODUCERS.**

  6. Jul 9

    GXJ Replay: A Rewarding Retirement Takes More Than You Think, with Aaron Kirsch and Laura Zettel-Watson

    This week on the Gen X Juggler Podcast, host Deb is joined by Aaron Kirsch, a Certified Financial Planner, and Laura Zettel-Watson, a psychology professor specializing in aging, to discuss their unique collaboration on The Rewarding Retirement Workbook. This workbook aims to provide a comprehensive guide to retirement planning that goes beyond financial preparation to include goals, purpose, relationships, and health.   The conversation highlights the importance of a holistic approach to retirement planning, addressing common pitfalls and offering actionable advice on how to create a fulfilling life in retirement. Whether it's advice on keeping healthy, maintaining relationships, or finding purpose, this episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone looking to make their retirement years truly rewarding.   00:00 Introduction to Today's Guests 00:57 Meet Aaron Kirsch and Laura Zettel Watson 01:41 The Genesis of the Rewarding Retirement Workbook 02:29 The Importance of Planning Beyond Finances 03:35 Collaborating for a Holistic Approach 04:50 The Role of Psychology in Retirement Planning 07:11 Behavioral Finance and Happiness 08:58 Defining Happiness and Its Impact on Retirement 20:02 The Importance of Relationships in Retirement 23:26 The Three Phases of Retirement 24:19 Health and Wellness in Retirement 33:00 Planning and Communication for Couples 40:13 Final Thoughts and Resources   Purchase The Rewarding Retirement Workbook on Amazon: https://a.co/d/768Mb2W   To learn more, go to: https://rewardingretirementworkbook.com/   For speaking and event inquiries, please contact Deb at: genxjuggler@gmail.com   **Want to be a guest on Gen X Juggler Podcast? Send Deb Foster a message      on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/genxjuggler   Links to Gen X Juggler: https://youtube.com/@genxjuggler?si=GdErb9FBtfInJMTC https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gen-x-juggler-podcast/id1792338965 https://www.facebook.com/share/1CLEHVGu9H/?mibextid=wwXIfr https://www.instagram.com/gen_x_juggler?igsh=MXRvb3hyZDA4b3MzMQ== https://www.tiktok.com/@debfoster88?_t=ZP-8yp0VGqHois&_r=1 **THIS PODCAST IS FOR ENTERTAINMENT AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED PROFESSIONAL ADVICE IN ANY FIELD INCLUDING LEGAL, MEDICAL, FINANCIAL OR MENTAL HEALTH. THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY GUESTS ON THIS PODCAST ARE THEIR OWN AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THE VIEWS OF THE HOST AND/OR PRODUCERS.**

  7. Jul 2

    GXJ Replay-Beyond the Nest Egg: Redefining Retirement, with Aaron Kirsch and Laura Zettel-Watson (Part 1 of 2)

    This week on the Gen X Juggler Podcast, host Deb is joined by Aaron Kirsch, a Certified Financial Planner, and Laura Zettel-Watson, a psychology professor specializing in aging, to discuss their unique collaboration on The Rewarding Retirement Workbook. This workbook aims to provide a comprehensive guide to retirement planning that goes beyond financial preparation to include goals, purpose, relationships, and health.   The conversation highlights the importance of a holistic approach to retirement planning, addressing common pitfalls and offering actionable advice on how to create a fulfilling life in retirement. Whether it's advice on keeping healthy, maintaining relationships, or finding purpose, this episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone looking to make their retirement years truly rewarding.   00:00 Introduction to Today's Guests 00:57 Meet Aaron Kirsch and Laura Zettel Watson 01:41 The Genesis of the Rewarding Retirement Workbook 02:29 The Importance of Planning Beyond Finances 03:35 Collaborating for a Holistic Approach 04:50 The Role of Psychology in Retirement Planning 07:11 Behavioral Finance and Happiness 08:58 Defining Happiness and Its Impact on Retirement 20:02 The Importance of Relationships in Retirement 23:26 The Three Phases of Retirement 24:19 Health and Wellness in Retirement 33:00 Planning and Communication for Couples 40:13 Final Thoughts and Resources   Purchase The Rewarding Retirement Workbook on Amazon: https://a.co/d/768Mb2W   To learn more, go to: https://rewardingretirementworkbook.com/   For speaking and event enquiries, please contact Deb at: genxjuggler@gmail.com   **Want to be a guest on Gen X Juggler Podcast? Send Deb Foster a message      on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/genxjuggler   Links to Gen X Juggler: https://youtube.com/@genxjuggler?si=GdErb9FBtfInJMTC https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gen-x-juggler-podcast/id1792338965 https://www.facebook.com/share/1CLEHVGu9H/?mibextid=wwXIfr https://www.instagram.com/gen_x_juggler?igsh=MXRvb3hyZDA4b3MzMQ== https://www.tiktok.com/@debfoster88?_t=ZP-8yp0VGqHois&_r=1 **THIS PODCAST IS FOR ENTERTAINMENT AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED PROFESSIONAL ADVICE IN ANY FIELD INCLUDING LEGAL, MEDICAL, FINANCIAL OR MENTAL HEALTH. THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY GUESTS ON THIS PODCAST ARE THEIR OWN AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THE VIEWS OF THE HOST AND/OR PRODUCERS.**

  8. Jun 25

    GXJ Replay-Welcome to the Digital Jungle: Helping Kids & Teens Survive Screens with Sue Atkins

    This week on the Gen X Juggler Podcast, host Deb discusses digital safety, parenting, and technology management with author and broadcaster Sue Atkins.   They delve into the increasing complexity of parenting in the digital age, sharing practical tips and strategies to help parents protect their children's mental health and well-being online. They also highlight the importance of having open conversations, enforcing practical digital habits, and fostering critical thinking in children.   Sue Atkins shares insights from her experience and resources from her podcast, Navigating the Digital Jungle, to empower parents to guide their children safely through the digital landscape.   00:00 Parenting Meets Digital Threats 01:08 Meet Sue Atkins 01:59 Why Sue Started Helping 04:12 Gen X vs Online Risks 05:41 When Kids Get Phones 08:57 Safety Settings and Balance 10:31 Roblox and Online Predators 12:30 Trust and Open Communication 15:19 AI Dangers and Deepfakes 16:50 Critical Thinking and Kindness 21:33 AI and Human Values 23:25 Dinner Table Digital Chats 24:27 Family Meals Matter 25:24 Kids Learn By Example 25:45 Meaningful Screen Time 26:46 Breaking The Scroll Habit 27:53 Mental Health Link 29:52 Boredom Builds Creativity 32:06 Sleep And Overstimulation 32:39 Podcast And Resources 34:17 Filters And Comparison 37:11 Confident Parenting Boundaries 38:05 Delay Smartphones Strategy 39:44 Wrap Up And Thanks    Links to Sue Atkins:   https://navigatingthedigitaljungle.com   https://www.facebook.com/share/1A9F8S4ZcC/?mibextid=wwXIfr   For speaking and event enquiries, please contact Deb at: genxjuggler@gmail.com   **Want to be a guest on Gen X Juggler Podcast? Send Deb Foster a message      on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/genxjuggler   Links to Gen X Juggler: https://youtube.com/@genxjuggler?si=GdErb9FBtfInJMTC https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gen-x-juggler-podcast/id1792338965 https://www.facebook.com/share/1CLEHVGu9H/?mibextid=wwXIfr https://www.instagram.com/gen_x_juggler?igsh=MXRvb3hyZDA4b3MzMQ== https://www.tiktok.com/@debfoster88?_t=ZP-8yp0VGqHois&_r=1   **THIS PODCAST IS FOR ENTERTAINMENT AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED PROFESSIONAL ADVICE IN ANY FIELD INCLUDING LEGAL, MEDICAL, FINANCIAL OR MENTAL HEALTH. THE VIEWS EXPRESSED BY GUESTS ON THIS PODCAST ARE THEIR OWN AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THE VIEWS OF THE HOST AND/OR PRODUCERS.**

5
out of 5
15 Ratings

About

Yesterday, we were the fun-loving feral kids of the 80’s, and today we’re grownup Gen Xers juggling the many joys and challenges of midlife. That happened fast! This podcast covers topics that matter most to us as we navigate the uncharted waters of midlife and all that comes with it. We’ll reminisce about the good old days and also share stories and valuable conversations that help us make the most of the here and now. Want to be a guest on Gen X Juggler Podcast? Send Deb Foster a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/genxjuggler