Midlife Circus

Burning Matches Media
  • 4.7 (42)
  • PERSONAL JOURNALS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Midlife isn’t the end — it’s the evolution of Gen X. Hosted by Brent Drever and Rob Espenel, Midlife Circus is where real conversations meet reinvention. Like any good circus, midlife is part chaos, part wonder — a stage for learning new acts. From careers and relationships to purpose and adventure, Rob and Brent explore the unpredictable, messy, and meaningful middle of life with humor, honesty, and a touch of rebellion. Pull up a seat under the tent — and get ready to laugh, reflect, and rediscover what’s possible in Your Next Great Act.

  1. 6D AGO

    The Solo Retreat: Alone With Your Thoughts

    In this episode of Midlife Circus, Brent and Rob explore solo retreats and the value of intentionally stepping away from the noise of midlife. They share personal stories—from quick outdoor resets to multi-day retreats—and reflect on how creating space can unlock clarity, creativity, and perspective. The conversation also touches on the discomfort that can surface when distractions fade, and why learning to sit with it often leads to growth and calm. If midlife feels full or overwhelming, this episode offers a simple reminder: sometimes clarity comes from stepping back.   Links, resources, books mentioned: Visit Episode WebsiteJoin the Midlife Circus Community on SubstackFollow us: Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTubeTopics we are covering in this episode: Solo retreats create space for thoughts and insights to surface without distraction.Stepping away from constant midlife chaos often brings clarity before answers.Reset time works best when it’s not focused on problem-solving or productivity.Simplicity matters—adding too many logistics can reduce the benefits early on.Quiet space can feel uncomfortable at first, especially when inner dialogue shows up.Learning to sit with that discomfort is part of the growth.The urge to document or explain the experience can pull attention away from being present.With practice, solo time becomes easier and more rewarding.Solo retreats are not selfish—they often lead to showing up better for others.Intentional space helps reconnect with perspective, creativity, and calm.

    52 min

  2. JAN 28

    Starting Law School at 50: Proof It’s Not Too Late, with our Guest Ron Mayer

    In this episode, Brent and Rob sit down with longtime friend and guest Ron Mayer to explore what reinvention really looks like in midlife. Ron shares his remarkable journey—from college football and Division I basketball refereeing to financial services, building a successful barbershop business, and ultimately starting law school at age 50. Along the way, they talk openly about doubt, identity shifts, and the courage it takes to move toward something meaningful rather than running away from what no longer fits. This conversation is for anyone wondering if it’s too late—and looking for proof that it’s not.   Links, resources, books mentioned: Visit Episode WebsiteJoin the Midlife Circus Community on SubstackFollow us: Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTubeHow to Think Like Einstein - Scott D. ThorpeMoonwalking with Einstein - Joshua Foer(This post includes affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links—at no extra cost to you.)   Topics we are covering in this episode: Life can go down many different paths.You can pivot at any point in life.Early experiences shape our willingness to explore new paths.It's important to move towards something meaningful.Managing doubt is crucial during transitions.Self-reflection helps in navigating career changes.Trust yourself and your decision-making process.Engaging with others can alleviate feelings of loneliness.Identifying limiting beliefs is key to personal growth.You have the power to write your own story.

    49 min

  3. JAN 21

    Midlife Meets AI

    In this episode, Rob and Brent dig into what AI actually looks like in midlife—beyond the hype, fear, and sci-fi doom. They break down how they use AI in three practical ways: as a smarter search tool, as a thought partner for better decisions (including “virtual board of directors”), and as a creative engine for making things—from trip itineraries to short-form video experiments. Along the way, they talk about trust, bias, authenticity, and why AI should augment your life—not replace your voice.   Links, resources, books mentioned: Visit Episode WebsiteJoin the Midlife Circus Community on SubstackFollow us: Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTubeThe Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck - Mark MansonCan’t Hurt Me - David GogginsNever Finished - David GogginsEthan Mollick – One Useful Thing (Substack)Reid Hoffman – Possible (podcast)(This post includes affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links—at no extra cost to you.)   Topics we are covering in this episode: How in midlife, we can use AI in practical, everyday ways—without hype or fearAI as a smarter alternative to traditional search and researchUsing AI as a thought partner to think more clearly and make better decisionsBuilding “virtual board of directors” with AI to evaluate ideas from multiple perspectivesUnderstanding bias, trust, and why AI shouldn’t be treated as gospelWhere AI helps—and where it hurts—creative authenticityReal-world examples of AI in action, from writing and planning to travel and content creationHow AI can help reframe challenges, reduce friction, and speed up learningWhy starting small (recipes, trips, simple questions) is a simple way to beginEmbracing AI as a tool that augments the human experience, not replaces it

    52 min

  4. JAN 14

    Someday Is a Lie: Adventures Expire

    In this episode of Midlife Circus, Brent and Rob unpack why adventures and experiences don’t last forever—and why waiting for the “right time” is often the biggest risk of all. From scratched bucket-list dreams and changing travel styles to family windows that close faster than we expect, they explore how health, relationships, and energy shape what’s still possible—and what’s already expired. This isn’t about drastic change or reckless decisions—it’s about awareness, choice, and action. Because the most expensive decision in midlife isn’t what you do—it’s what you keep postponing.   Links, resources, books mentioned: Visit Episode WebsiteJoin the Midlife Circus Community on SubstackFollow us: Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTubeTopics we are covering in this episode: Adventures can expire due to health, relationships, or interests.Seizing opportunities is crucial as life changes.Family dynamics affect the timing of adventures.Experiences with children have a finite window.Health impacts the ability to pursue adventures as we age.Writing down goals can help prioritize adventures.Sharing your goals with others can lead to support and accountability.It's important to embrace adventures before they expire.

    43 min

  5. JAN 7

    Setting Goals for the Year Ahead

    In this episode, Rob and Brent discuss their intentions and goals for 2026, focusing on themes of health, balance, and personal growth. They reflect on the past year, share their adventures planned for the upcoming year, and emphasize the importance of building a community through the Midlife Circus podcast. The conversation highlights the significance of setting intentions, being flexible with goals, and fostering relationships.   Links, resources, books mentioned: Visit Episode Website Join the Midlife Circus Community on SubstackFollow us: Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTubeThe One Word That’ll Change Your Life - John Gordon, Dan Britton, and Jimmy Page(This post includes affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links—at no extra cost to you.) Topics we are covering in this episode: Reflecting on the past year helps set intentions for the new year.Choosing a one-word theme can guide personal growth.Health encompasses physical, mental, and relationship aspects.Setting goals should be flexible and adaptable.Quality time with loved ones enhances relationship health.Adventures can be both personal and shared experiences.Building a community can provide support and connection.Intentions for the year can be documented and revisited.Creating a balance between work and personal life is essential.

    55 min

  6. 12/31/2025

    New Habits, New Year, New You

    In this conversation, Brent and Rob explore the significance of habits, particularly in the context of sleep, transitions in life, and midlife changes. They discuss the importance of understanding and improving sleep habits, navigating the anxiety of transitions, and the value of slowing down to create space in life. The discussion also emphasizes the need for self-reflection during midlife, envisioning changes before they occur, and the process of building new habits through cues and rewards. Ultimately, they highlight the journey of habit formation and the importance of creating healthy habits for a fulfilling life.   Links, resources, books mentioned: Visit Episode WebsiteJoin the Midlife Circus Community on SubstackFollow us: Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTubeThe Power of Habit - Charles Duhigg(This post includes affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links—at no extra cost to you.)   Topics we are covering in this episode: Navigating transitions can create anxiety, but it's important to find a new pace.Creating space in life allows for better enjoyment of activities and reduces stress.Midlife is a time for reflection and reassessment of habits and priorities.Envisioning changes before they happen can help ease transitions.Practicing new habits in advance increases the likelihood of success.Understanding the cues and rewards associated with habits can facilitate change.It's essential to identify habits that serve you well and those that don't.Sleep is a crucial habit that can significantly impact productivity and well-being.Midlife offers an opportunity to create a new version of yourself through healthy habits.

    48 min

  7. 12/24/2025

    Holiday Traditions

    In this festive conversation, Brent and Rob explore their cherished Christmas traditions, childhood memories of Santa, and the nostalgia that surrounds the holiday season. They share humorous anecdotes about family Christmas tree adventures, unique traditions, and the significance of ornaments. The discussion also touches on the experience of celebrating Christmas in warmer climates, the joy of holiday music and movies, and the meaning of Christmas in their lives today. Ultimately, they emphasize the importance of family and friends during the holiday season.   Links, resources, books mentioned: Visit Episode WebsiteNewsletter Sign UpFollow us: Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTubeTopics we are covering in this episode: Christmas traditions evoke nostalgia and create lasting memories.Family adventures in finding Christmas trees can be humorous.Unique family traditions can evolve over time.Ornaments can hold sentimental value and represent memories.Celebrating Christmas in warm climates can feel different.Holiday music sets the tone for the Christmas season.Movies play a significant role in holiday traditions.The meaning of Christmas shifts as families grow and change.Quality time with loved ones is the essence of the holidays.

    32 min

  8. 12/17/2025

    Repurposed NOT Retired

    In this conversation, Brent shares his experiences and challenges faced after retirement, particularly around identity and purpose. He discusses the awkwardness of answering the question 'What do you do?' and the discomfort that comes with losing a professional identity. The dialogue explores the journey of finding new opportunities, the importance of experimentation, and the need to create a balanced portfolio of skills and activities that bring joy and fulfillment. Both Rob and Brent reflect on their transitions and the significance of taking time to discover their next great act after a long career.   Links, resources, books mentioned: Visit Episode Website Newsletter Sign UpFollow us: Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTubeTopics we are covering in this episode: The question 'What do you do?' can be challenging post-retirement.Finding purpose after retirement is a common struggle.Exploring new opportunities can lead to unexpected paths.It's important to balance activities and not overcommit.Experimentation is key in discovering new passions.Creating a portfolio of skills can provide fulfillment.It's okay to take time to figure out what's next.Lingering in discomfort can lead to personal growth.

    52 min
See All (17)

Trailer

4.7
out of 5
42 Ratings

About

Midlife isn’t the end — it’s the evolution of Gen X. Hosted by Brent Drever and Rob Espenel, Midlife Circus is where real conversations meet reinvention. Like any good circus, midlife is part chaos, part wonder — a stage for learning new acts. From careers and relationships to purpose and adventure, Rob and Brent explore the unpredictable, messy, and meaningful middle of life with humor, honesty, and a touch of rebellion. Pull up a seat under the tent — and get ready to laugh, reflect, and rediscover what’s possible in Your Next Great Act.

Information

  • Creator
    Burning Matches Media
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    17
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    ©2026 Burning Matches, LLC
  • Show Website
    Midlife Circus

You Might Also Like