Episode 59 - GenX Speaks Series: Jon Wellington - The Dadbod Veteran

In this episode we welcome Jon Wellington, also known as The Dadbod Veteran.  Jon shares about his GenX childhood in Charleston, South Carolina, which included growing up on a military base as well as experiencing a civilian upbringing.  We learn about his ADHD diagnosis, and how medication combined with therapy and coping tools helped him downshift and find a balance that allowed him to thrive.  We learn about how his love of football became a focal point in his life in addition to helping him find purpose during his high school years after the loss of his father to cancer.  Joining the Navy coincided with becoming a young father, and we reflect on the sacrifices military families make as Jon shares about his extensive travels around the world when he served as an FC, or Fire Controlman.  Shore Duty brought Jon back home to Charleston and his family, and we discuss the differences between corporate and military as he transitioned between the two.  Jon shares about having a blended family and his beautifully unique situation, and we learn about the moment The Dadbod Veteran was born.  As The Dadbod Veteran’s audience grew, so did more opportunities and experiences.  An inquiry form Sherri Dindal, also known as The Real Slim Sherri, led to the phenomenon that is now known as The GenX Takeover.  Together with GenX personalities Nick Harrison aka The Professor, Kelly Manno and of course, The Real Slim Sherri, Jon has become part of a touring comedy show that has literally taken on a life of its own.  With comedian Justin Rupple as emcee, and musician Jojo Malagar added to the show, the GenX Takeover Tour has amassed such a following that they have 26 shows, and counting, booked for 2026!  We marvel at Jon’s inspiring journey from military to corporate to stand-up comedy, as he offers us a glimpse into his method of preparation before he steps on stage.  It truly is a courageous undertaking at any age, but especially to brave it midlife.  The feat is even more impressive considering Jon just underwent hip surgery, a journey he candidly shares with us.  Jon’s blend of military and corporate background, combined with his obvious pride and love for his wife and children, quick wit and quiet intelligence and courage to do the non-normative thing midlife is sure to inspire many GenX listeners.  We truly enjoyed our conversation with Jon and can’t wait to attend another show!Check Jon Out Here:Website and Store: https://thedadbodveteran.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thedadbodveteran?lang=enInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedadbodveteran/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thedadbodveteranFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DadbodveteranTwitch: https://www.twitch.tv/dbveteran#genx #genxtalks #navy #military #corporate #family #marriage #father #fatherhood #adhd #football #genxtakeover #thedadbodveteran #therapy #travel #comedy #standup #storytime #interview #inspire #advice #growthmindset #midlife #allthingsgenx #genxlifeCheck us out at genxadulting.com#generationx #genx #podcast #marriage #relationship #interview #mom #family