Gen-Xpertise

In this episode, we unpack some of Maine's "origin story".  We talk about his early influences and what first pulled him into the world of IT. We also talk candidly about non-traditional paths into technology, the role of trades versus college education, and why tech competence is quickly becoming a life skill rather than just a career choice. Whether you're Gen-X, mentoring th...

As we roll into New Year 2026, Gen-Xpertise takes a practical look at habit formation. We discuss what actually sticks, what doesn't and why so many resolutions fade by February. In this episode, we also review the book "Atomic Habits" by best-selling author James Clear.  We break down some of the book's core ideas from a Gen-X perspective. We talk about small changes, identity...

We can all agree that 2025 has been an eventful year to say the least. Rather than focusing on the chaos, we are using this last episode of the year to reflect on the wins. We are discussing the big and small personal milestones that shaped our year, provided opportunities and moments of growth. This episode is about recognizing progress and practicing gratitude. Thank you to everyone who's s...

What are some of your favorite Christmas memories? What movies and music signify Christmas to you?  In this episode we discuss some of our favorite things about Christmas and the memories that hit different now that we're older and have families of our own. From food to family traditions, we take a nostalgic and honest look at the holiday season and what makes it special.  Intro and Outro mus...

In this episode of the Gen-Xpertise podcast, we talk about health in "midlife".  We discuss the importance of being intentional and getting serious about health and wellness. Rance is our resident fitness expert. He breaks down subjects like sustainable habits, mental discipline and why focusing on health should be considered mandatory not optional. This isn't about chasing fads or...

From VHS rewinds to movie premiers in the theater...Gen-X didn't just watch movies, we were shaped by them. In this episode, we dive into some of the films every Gen-Xer should know. This episode isn't just about our favorite movies, but the values, lessons, and worldview these stories introduced to Gen-Xers and everyone else.  Intro and Outro music by Erin Garris and Khari Garris  Suppo...

In this conversation, we dive into the quiet crisis many Gen-X men carry but rarely talk about. This is the difficulty of maintaining old friendships and challenges that come with forming new ones. We explore how careers, family responsibilities, emotional conditioning from our upbringing, and the pressure to "be strong" have shaped the way men connect (or don't). With honest reflec...

Jazz is a uniquely American artform. It is a sound born from Black genius, shaped in struggle, and lifted by improvisation and freedom. It's the music that taught the world how to swing, how to break rules, and how to turn emotion into art. More than a genre, jazz is a mirror of America's story: bold, resilient, innovative, and always evolving. In this episode, Maine and Rance discuss th...

What if you knew you only had 24 hours to live? What would you do first? Who would you want to talk to?  Where would you want to go? Maine and Rance answer these questions and a lot more. We discuss the mindset of a person who knows they have such a short amount of time left. We explore the implications to family and friends, as well as the importance of cherishing the time and being more intentio...

After Episode 5 "Ain't Nothing But A Gen-X Thang", we got quite a few requests to do a follow up to the nostalgic trip down memory lane.  So, in this episode, we do it again.  Join us as we reminisce about the evolution of the hip hop mixtape, vintage toys, 80s fashion and much more.   Intro and Outro music by Erin Garris and Khari Garris Support the show Instagram: @gen_xpertise ; ...

For some, Halloween is their favorite holiday, filled with great memories and unforgettable experiences.  For others, it may just be a proverbial speed bump on the way to Thanksgiving and Christmas season. Still others fall somewhere in between.  In this episode, we discuss some of our favorite and least favorite things about Halloween.  We reminisce on childhood memories including our favorite ca...

Gen-Xers, do you remember "Reading Is Fundamental (RIF)"?  How about "Reading Rainbow"?  We had a lot of reminders growing up of the importance of reading.  So far, most of the Gen-Xpertise podcast episodes have included a reference to a book, a movie or both. On this episode, we decided to turn it up a notch. We're sharing our thoughts on a few books we've read that...

Welcome to episode 10 of The Gen-Xpertise Podcast! Ten episodes feels special like a mini milestone. In this episode, we offer basic principles we think everyone should consider and try to incorporate into their own lives. We offer varied perspectives on everything from managing stress to the importance of keeping your dreams alive. What are some guiding principles you live by?  Intro and Outro mu...

Have you ever considered what your life would be like if you could go back in time and change things? Are there any mistakes or bad decisions you wish you could correct? What would be some of the impacts and consequences of changing your past?  In this episode we discuss our thoughts on the matter.  We talk through a few of the decisions that we've made that put our lives on a certain traject...

In this episode Maine and Rance discuss the importance of being a "lifelong learner".  We touch on some of the positive results that come from dedicating time and energy to the pursuit of knowledge. Whether it is an investment in new skills or a purely academic pursuit, we believe there is no such thing as wasted knowledge.  It's especially important in this information age to be in...

What is the common thread between the 1992 film " Juice " and George Orwell's novel " 1984 "?  Good question.  Find out as Maine and Rance do their first in depth analysis of a movie that was impactful to Gen-Xers.  In addition to Juice, there are also a few honorable mentions you'll recognize.  This conversation examines how the influence of media may not always alig...

This time it's personal!  On this episode Maine and Rance each share real life experiences that shaped us into the people we are today. We swap stories on some of the moments and people that impacted each of us over the years. Everyone has points in their lives that either set them on a particular path, changed their perspective or provided a valuable lesson.  We invite you to sit in on the c...

Take a trip down memory lane with Maine and Rance.  This episode is all about nostalgia.  We pick some of our most memorable items and experiences growing up in the 80s. Some of these things we're sure Gen-Xers out there will all remember. Others might be more specific to NYC kids. Let us know! What are some of your favorite things about growing up as a Gen-Xer? Support the show Instagram: @g...

In Episode 4 of the Gen-Xpertise Podcast, Maine and Rance discuss the pros and cons of social media. The discussion covers a little bit of the history of platforms like Facebook and Instagram and how they've evolved.  We make a couple of book recommendations and movie references that we think will be helpful. It seems like Hollywood actually predicted and tried to send a warning about what wa...

In Episode 3 of the Gen Expertise Podcast, Maine and Rance discuss the importance of remaining present. "There is no tomorrow" doesn't mean the sun won't rise or the calendar won't flip. It means tomorrow is not real in this moment. It always exists as an idea in our minds. The concept invites us to pour constructive energy into what we can control today.  Support the show...

Maine and Rance have a discussion about some of the traits that make Gen-X unique. We compare the upbringing of Gen-Xers to the characters in William Golding’s classic book “Lord of the Flies”.  We also explore the “U Bend Curve” and some of the reasons our happiness level changes as we age. Support the show Instagram: @gen_xpertise ;  youtube:  https://youtube.com/@gen_xpertise_podcast?si=URb-am5...

Welcome to the Gen-Xpertise Podcast!  This is the intro episode to let you know why Maine and Rance decided to do a podcast. We also want to let you know what to expect going forward.  The goal is to provide a platform that speaks to Gen-Xers’ needs – career, culture, nostalgia, family, finances, health, legacy, etc. while having some fun in the process.  "Welcome to Our Midlife Crisis!"...