Gen X Juggler Podcast

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

Episodes

29 minutes ago

43 min

This week on the Gen X Juggler podcast, Deb welcomes Jacintha Field, a family and child counselor, art therapist, and founder of Happy Souls Kids. They dive into the importance of teaching children and grandchildren how to self-regulate their emotions through various tools and techniques.
 
Jacintha shares her journey from media and PR to becoming a counselor, inspired by her own challenges as a mother during the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation covers practical steps to help children process their big emotions, the role of technology in self-regulation, and the significance of creating a safe space for open communication. With insights on mindful parenting and the importance of boundaries, this episode provides valuable advice for parents and caregivers looking to support their children's emotional well-being.
 
00:00 Introduction: Reflecting on Gen X Upbringing
01:19 Guest Introduction: Jacintha Field
01:49 Jacintha's Journey: From Media to Mental Health
02:49 Personal Challenges and Discoveries
04:06 Developing Tools for Emotional Regulation
05:02 The Role of Play in Therapy
06:45 Incorporating Technology and Influences
12:47 Understanding Self-Regulation
21:39 Teaching Kids to Manage Anxiety
22:50 Starting Conversations with Your Children
24:43 Mindful Parenting Explained
31:33 Encouraging Independence in Children
36:19 Creating a Safe Space for Honest Communication
40:21 Generational Learning and Healing
41:41 Resources and Final Thoughts
 
Jacintha Field Links:
www.happysoulskids.com
https://www.tiktok.com/@jacinthafield?_t=ZP-90mZAdiLU1m&_r=1
https://www.tiktok.com/@happysoulskids?_t=ZP-90mZ3x1VOmc&_r=1
https://www.instagram.com/jacinthafield?igsh=aXlndnYwYXkybWZk
https://www.instagram.com/happysoulskids?igsh=cHc5dGp3ejMydDVu
 
**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.**
 

29 minutes ago

43 min

Sep 10, 2026

35 min

In this episode of the Gen X Juggler podcast, Deb welcomes nurse practitioner, author, and coach Jenn Robb. Jenn shares the poignant journey she and her daughter Chloe underwent during Chloe's battle with mental health issues, including depression and self-harm.
Highlighting the importance of finding the right professional help and the transformative power of faith and perseverance, Jenn discusses her book, Warrior Mom Rising, and offers valuable advice for other parents facing similar challenges. The conversation delves into the emotional struggles, the necessity of advocacy, and the power of community and self-care.
Jenn's commitment to turning her pain into purpose by helping other moms is both inspiring and practical, making this a must-listen episode for anyone seeking strength and hope in difficult times.
00:00 Introduction to Jenn Robb and Her Story
00:48 Jenn Robb's Background and Family Life
01:55 Chloe's Struggles Begin
03:57 The Turning Point: Recognizing the Severity
05:59 Seeking Professional Help
09:42 The Search for the Right Counselor 1
2:07 Discovering the Root Cause
13:10 Finding the Right Help and Moving Forward
15:17 The Importance of Self-Care for Moms
16:39 Family Bonding and Unique Experiences
17:25 The Beauty of Glassblowing
18:00 A Mother's Reflection on Purpose and Pain
19:11 Chloe's Struggle and a Mother's Instinct
22:26 A Moment of Surrender
24:02 Advocating for Moms and Mental Health
29:50 The Journey to Coaching and Empowerment
34:02 Final Thoughts and Resources
Jenn Robb's Links:
Amazon Link to Jenn Robb's book, Warrior Mom Rising: a.co/d/0kZyC57
warriormomcoach.net
https://www.instagram.com/warriormom_jennrobb?igsh=bWVtejAxd2FyeXkw
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.**
 

Sep 10, 2026

35 min

Sep 3, 2026

50 min

In this episode of the Gen X Juggler Podcast, Deb is joined by Dr. Betsy Greenleaf, the first woman in the U.S. to be board certified in urogynecology.
 
They discuss the unexpected symptoms of menopause, the importance of pelvic floor health, and different treatment options including hormonal and non-hormonal therapies.
 
Dr. Betsy emphasizes the importance of gut health and stress management for overall wellness. From the interplay of microbiomes to exploring advanced therapies like vaginal lasers, this episode offers a comprehensive guide for midlife women navigating the complexities of menopause.
 
00:00 Meet Dr Betsy Greenleaf
01:20 Why Menopause Talk Matters
01:57 Sorting Menopause Marketing
03:27 Cougar Puberty Surprises
05:51 Vaginal Changes Explained
09:17 Hormone Treatment Options
10:30 Lasers And New Tech
13:47 At Home Regeneration Tools
15:01 Budget Timing And Maintenance
17:00 UTIs And Gut Health
23:50 Functional Medicine Mindset
27:05 Microbiome Weight Link
28:12 Microbiome Sharing Myth
29:26 Birth Genetics And Seeding
30:14 Twin Mice Microbiome Swap
31:39 Diversity Stress Lifestyle
33:36 Midlife Stress Sandwich
35:33 Box Breathing Reset
38:10 Kindness Self Care Boundaries
43:29 Cholesterol Cortisol Tradeoff
46:07 Resources Discounts Wrap
 
**Contact Deb for speaking engagements 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 Dr. Betsy Greenleaf:
https://pauseinstitute.com
https://pelvicfloorstore.com
https://www.instagram.com/drbetsygreenleaf?igsh=d3AyZjZyZTIyNzI4
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.**
 

Sep 3, 2026

50 min

Aug 27, 2026

49 min

In this insightful episode of the Gen X Juggler Podcast, host Deb engages in a deep conversation with Bern Mendez, a neuroscience-based dating and relationship coach with over 14 years of experience. Specializing in helping high-achieving women over 40 attract emotionally available partners, Bern shares his unique approach that blends neuroscience, emotional attunement, and real-world strategy. Topics include the role of the nervous system in partner selection, the importance of challenging long-held non-negotiables, and practical tips for navigating modern dating. Bern also recounts a touching personal story about the impact of losing his father, which deepened his mission to help others create meaningful connections. This episode is packed with actionable advice and will inspire you to approach dating with intentionality and self-awareness.
00:00 Introduction to the Episode
00:57 Meet Bern Mendez: The Neuroscience-Based Dating Coach
03:03 The Importance of Out-of-the-Box Solutions in Dating
03:36 Understanding the Challenges of Modern Dating
08:59 The Role of the Nervous System in Relationships
22:05 Navigating Physical Intimacy and Emotional Attachment
26:07 Navigating the Early Stages of Dating
26:35 The Importance of Asking Questions
27:35 Setting Boundaries and Safety Protocols
28:59 Intentional Dating and Video Calls
30:36 Recognizing Red Flags and True Connections
35:01 The Value of Emotional Connection
39:10 Tools and Resources for Better Relationships
44:52 A Personal Story of Connection and Loss
Bern Mendez Links:
bernmendez.com
attractoinblindspot.com
www.youtube.com/ ⁨@BernMendez⁩ 
https://www.tiktok.com/@bernmendez?_t=ZP-8zoqH1zGQYB&_r=1
**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.**
 

Aug 27, 2026

49 min

Aug 20, 2026

46 min

🎙️ Meet David Ask — Entrepreneur, Inventor & Identity Coach What does it mean to truly know who you are before chasing what you do? In this episode, we sit down with David Ask, often called the most encouraging person on earth.
From launching his invention into 3,700+ retail stores to guiding high-performing leaders through identity-first transformation, David helps people unlock the grit, purpose, and hidden riches already inside them.
🔑 In this conversation, you’ll learn:
• How David’s journey as an entrepreneur shaped his coaching philosophy
• The importance of grit and perseverance in business & life
• How being steadfast in our own identities builds resilience and grit
• How understanding our core values and living in authenticity can impact our      children.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, leader, or someone seeking deeper purpose, this episode will lift your spirit and sharpen your vision.
Oh—and did I mention? David Ask can sing like Andrea Bocelli. 🎶 Experience David Ask's "Open Arms" for yourself:
https://youtu.be/vQ_ub2jU0_g?si=UI6oWem_Pl0Lh7IE
David Ask's Links:
https://www.davidaskmusic.com/
https://www.truenorthculture.org/team
StatGuardPlus.com
**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.**
 

Aug 20, 2026

46 min

Aug 13, 2026

42 min

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.**
 

Aug 13, 2026

42 min

Aug 6, 2026

50 min


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.**
 

Aug 6, 2026

50 min

Jul 30, 2026

45 min


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.**
 

Jul 30, 2026

45 min

Jul 23, 2026

40 min


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.**
 

Jul 23, 2026

40 min

Jul 16, 2026

42 min


 
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
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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
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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.**
 

Jul 16, 2026

42 min

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