GenX Journeys

What happens when the life you've carefully built begins to unravel? In this powerful first installment of a two-part conversation, Paul sits down with Dr. Linda Varisco, bestselling author of The Girl with the Million Dollar Smile, to explore a journey marked by heartbreak, betrayal, resilience, and the courage to keep moving forward. Linda shares her early life on Long Island, the path that led her to a successful chiropractic career, and the personal and professional challenges that slowly transformed everything she thought she knew. Along the way, she opens up about marriage, family, loss, difficult decisions, and the betrayals that changed the course of her life. More than anything, this is a story about resilience. Even in life's darkest moments, hope has a way of finding us. This is Part 1 of Linda's remarkable journey. In Part 2, Linda shares her experiences with the federal investigation, life in prison, and the extraordinary path to rebuilding her life. In this episode, we discuss: Growing up on Long Island Building a successful chiropractic practice Marriage, family, and unexpected heartbreak Trust, betrayal, and life-changing decisions Finding strength when everything begins to fall apart Why resilience is a choice we make every day If Linda's story resonates with you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs the reminder that our toughest chapters don't have to define our future.   Connect with Dr. Linda Varisco https://lindavarisco.com TikTok: @thelifeofmrpeaches   🎙 GenX Journeys is where Generation X comes to embrace the past, own the present, and build an epic future. Follow, subscribe, and share wherever you listen to podcasts.   💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM

Every family has stories. Some are passed down from generation to generation, while others are nearly lost to time. In this episode of GenX Journeys, Paul Stroessner and Suzanne Mattaboni welcome author Lara Brenckle Malmont to share the remarkable true story that inspired her debut novel, Three Rivers Home. What began as childhood curiosity about a grandfather she never met turned into a twenty-year journey through family records, newspaper archives, courthouse documents, and long-forgotten letters. Along the way, Lara discovered a little-known chapter of Pittsburgh history involving children who were "farmed out" through Allegheny County's early foster care system—while also uncovering a deeper understanding of resilience, family, and the stories that shape us. The conversation also explores growing up Gen X, the books that inspired a generation of readers and writers, the influence of journalism, preserving family history before it's lost, and why asking questions may be one of the greatest gifts we can pass on. Whether you're fascinated by genealogy, historical fiction, or simply love hearing meaningful conversations, this episode is a reminder that every family has a story worth discovering. In This Episode Growing up Gen X in and around Pittsburgh How childhood curiosity became a 20-year research project The true story behind Three Rivers Home Forgotten history and Pittsburgh's early foster care system Journalism, storytelling, and historical fiction The books that shaped a generation of Gen X readers Why preserving family stories matters more than ever About Our Guest Lara Brenckle Malmont is a Pittsburgh native, journalist, and author of Three Rivers Home. Her writing explores the people, places, and stories that define home. Her debut novel is inspired by the true story of her paternal grandfather's childhood in early twentieth-century Pittsburgh and the forgotten history surrounding Allegheny County's dependent children. Connect with Lara larabrencklemalmont.com Get Three Rivers Home on Amazon Facebook Instagram (@lara_brenckle_malmont) LinkedIn: larabrenckle TikTok: @larabrencklemalmont X: @larabrenckle Closing If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who loves great stories and meaningful conversations. Because every journey begins with a question... and sometimes the answers change everything.   Who in your family has a story you've never asked about? Maybe it's time to start asking.   More from the GenX Book Club Crew 📖 Suzanne Mattaboni (Author of Once in a Lifetime) 🔹 Get her book anywhere books are sold, including Kindle Unlimited and onceinalifetimenovel.com 🔹 Visit her at suzannemattaboni.com 🔹 Follow Suzanne: 📷 Instagram: @suzannemattaboni80s 🐦 X: @suzmattaboni 📘 Facebook: Suzanne Mattaboni 🎙️ Del Roehling (Host of 80s at 8 on 91.1 WEDM FM) 🔹 Tune in to 80s at 8 for all your favorite throwback tunes 🔹 Get your daily dose of '80s news on the 80s at 8 Facebook page 💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM

What if the songs that shaped your life could also help you heal? In this episode of GenX Book Club, Paul Stroessner and Suzanne Mattaboni welcome author Steve Matsumoto to discuss his heartfelt debut novel, The Last Mixtape. Set against the backdrop of the 1990s, The Last Mixtape follows first-grade teacher James Nakamura as he struggles to navigate life after the loss of his sister. Through grief, friendship, romance, and the music that defined a generation, Steve explores how memories can both haunt us and help us move forward. Together, we discuss: The real-life experiences that inspired the novel Why mixtapes were so much more than playlists Balancing humor with grief Writing authentic male vulnerability Becoming an author later in life Why physical music still holds a special place for Gen X The emotional power of nostalgia without relying on nostalgia alone We also share plenty of memories about cassette tapes, vinyl records, CDs, discovering music before streaming, and the uniquely Gen X experience of communicating through songs. Whether you've experienced loss, love discovering new authors, or simply remember spending hours crafting the perfect mixtape, this conversation is filled with heart, humor, and plenty of 90s memories. About Steve Matsumoto Steve Matsumoto is the author of The Last Mixtape, a coming-of-age novel inspired by personal experiences with grief, family, and the music that shaped a generation. He lives in Southern California and is currently working on the next novel featuring James Nakamura. https://www.stevematsumoto.com/   More from the GenX Book Club Crew 📖 Suzanne Mattaboni (Author of Once in a Lifetime) 🔹 Get her book anywhere books are sold, including Kindle Unlimited and onceinalifetimenovel.com 🔹 Visit her at suzannemattaboni.com 🔹 Follow Suzanne: 📷 Instagram: @suzannemattaboni80s 🐦 X: @suzmattaboni 📘 Facebook: Suzanne Mattaboni 🎙️ Del Roehling (Host of 80s at 8 on 91.1 WEDM FM) 🔹 Tune in to 80s at 8 for all your favorite throwback tunes 🔹 Get your daily dose of '80s news on the 80s at 8 Facebook page 💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 💡 Whether you're a die-hard '80s fan, a nostalgia lover, or just someone who enjoys a great book club discussion, this episode is packed with fun, wisdom, and plenty of throwback vibes. If you enjoyed this episode, please follow/subscribe on your favorite podcast app and leave a review.    

What if the dream you had at five years old was still waiting for you? In this inspiring episode of GenX Journeys, Paul welcomes Stacie Jones, founder of AB & J Travel Agency, certified travel advisor, entrepreneur, stroke survivor, Guinness World Record holder, and someone who proves it's never too late to reinvent your life. As a little girl growing up in the 1970s, Stacie dreamed of seeing the world. Life took her in a different direction, leading her into a successful corporate career. But after suffering multiple strokes in 2022, she was forced to slow down and re-evaluate everything. Instead of giving up, she returned to the dream she'd carried since childhood. Today, Stacie helps others create unforgettable travel experiences while living the life she always imagined. Along the way, she shares why travel is about far more than vacations. It's about healing, perspective, renewal, and finding your way back to yourself. Paul and Stacie also take a nostalgic trip through Gen X memories, including favorite TV shows, music, childhood crushes, and plenty of laughs that every Gen Xer will appreciate. In This Episode: Growing up Gen X in the 1970s and '80s The childhood dream that never disappeared Life after surviving multiple strokes Leaving corporate America to build a dream business Why travel can transform your perspective Common misconceptions about using a travel advisor Affordable bucket-list travel Favorite travel destinations (including Sedona and Vietnam) Dream trips still on the horizon Gen X nostalgia: Dukes of Hazzard, Knight Rider, Buck Rogers, Duran Duran, Men at Work, The Muppets, and much more Whether you're dreaming about traveling, changing careers, or rediscovering the person you always wanted to become, this conversation is a reminder that it's never too late to begin again. Connect with Stacie Jones Facebook: Stacie N. Jones AB & J Travel Agency Phone: (513) 991-2717 🎙 GenX Journeys is where Generation X comes to embrace the past, own the present, and build an epic future. Follow, subscribe, and share wherever you listen to podcasts.   💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM

What if you could step back into the neighborhoods, friendships, and moments that shaped your life? In this episode of GenX Journeys, Paul welcomes author Mike Di Leo to discuss his remarkable book, There Are Places I Remember. More than a collection of short stories, the book is a tapestry of interconnected memories spanning the 1970s, 1980s, 1990s, and beyond. Through themes of family, friendship, music, loss, nostalgia, and the passage of time, Mike captures experiences that resonate with Gen X and anyone who has ever looked back on the places and people who shaped them. Mike shares how the book evolved from an abandoned novel into forty interconnected stories, written during his daily train commute into New York City. The conversation explores growing up on Long Island, the changing nature of memory, revisiting childhood neighborhoods, the impact of 9/11, the universal pull of nostalgia, and why certain moments stay with us forever. Whether you're a fan of storytelling, history, music, sports, or simply reflecting on life's journey, this episode is a heartfelt exploration of where we've been and how those experiences continue to shape who we are. In This Episode Mike's journey from project manager to published author How There Are Places I Remember came to life Writing an entire book on an iPhone during train commutes The challenge and joy of connecting forty separate stories into one cohesive experience Why nostalgia plays such a powerful role in our lives Growing up in the suburbs during the 1970s and 1980s Revisiting childhood neighborhoods and seeing them through adult eyes Mike's firsthand experience during the events of September 11, 2001 The changing nature of culture from Gen X to today Baseball fandom, the Yankees-Mets rivalry, and sports nostalgia The Beatles, James Bond, and the cultural touchstones that shaped a generation What Mike is working on next About Mike Di Leo Mike Di Leo is an independent author from Long Island, New York. His latest book, There Are Places I Remember, is a unique collection of interconnected stories that span decades and explore memory, family, friendship, and the moments that define our lives. He is also the author of Images of Broken Light and The Spy Who Thrilled Us: A Guide to the Best of Cinematic James Bond. Connect with Mike Website: MichaelDiLeoAuthor.com Books available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble   💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM

What do an arrow through the head, a white suit, a banjo, and two wild and crazy guys have in common? Steve Martin. In this episode of the GenX Book Club, Paul Stroessner, Suzanne Mattaboni, and Del Roehling take a nostalgic look back at Steve Martin's memoir Born Standing Up, a fascinating behind-the-scenes story of one of comedy's most innovative performers. The conversation explores Martin's journey from working in the magic shops of Disneyland to becoming one of the biggest stand-up comedians in America. Along the way, we discuss the discipline, persistence, and creativity that fueled his rise, as well as the personal struggles that shaped him. We also revisit some of Steve Martin's most iconic moments, including: 📚 The origins of the arrow-through-the-head routine 🎭 The development of his unique style of comedy 🎤 His groundbreaking stand-up performances of the 1970s 📺 Saturday Night Live and the "Wild and Crazy Guys" era 🎵 King Tut, Let's Get Small, and comedy albums as Gen X cultural touchstones 🎬 Favorite Steve Martin films including The Jerk, Three Amigos, Father of the Bride, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Planes, Trains and Automobiles, Parenthood, and more More than a celebrity memoir, Born Standing Up is a masterclass in perseverance, reinvention, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Whether you grew up quoting Steve Martin's routines or are discovering his story for the first time, this episode celebrates a comedy legend whose influence continues to be felt across generations.   More from the GenX Book Club Crew 📖 Suzanne Mattaboni (Author of Once in a Lifetime) 🔹 Get her book anywhere books are sold, including Kindle Unlimited and onceinalifetimenovel.com 🔹 Visit her at suzannemattaboni.com 🔹 Follow Suzanne: 📷 Instagram: @suzannemattaboni80s 🐦 X: @suzmattaboni 📘 Facebook: Suzanne Mattaboni 🎙️ Del Roehling (Host of 80s at 8 on 91.1 WEDM FM) 🔹 Tune in to 80s at 8 for all your favorite throwback tunes 🔹 Get your daily dose of '80s news on the 80s at 8 Facebook page 💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 💡 Whether you're a die-hard '80s fan, a nostalgia lover, or just someone who enjoys a great book club discussion, this episode is packed with fun, wisdom, and plenty of throwback vibes. If you enjoyed this episode, please follow/subscribe on your favorite podcast app and leave a review.

What happens when the thing you love most is suddenly taken away? In this episode of GenX Journeys, Paul sits down with singer-songwriter Greg Amici to explore a story of resilience, reinvention, and returning to a passion that never truly left. After building momentum with his band Big Honey in New York City's music scene, Greg's journey took an unexpected turn when a vocal cord injury forced him away from music. What followed was a 16-year detour through screenwriting, acting, graduate school, and caring for aging parents before he finally found his way back to songwriting and recording. Greg shares: • Growing up in New Jersey and discovering music through classic rock • The rise and sudden end of his band Big Honey • How a vocal injury changed the course of his life • His years pursuing screenwriting and acting in Los Angeles • The moment that reignited his passion for music • Creating his acclaimed album Tragicomic • The challenges and opportunities of making music in the streaming era • Why it's never too late to reconnect with something you love Along the way, Greg opens up about criticism, creativity, family, aging, perseverance, and what he's learned at 64 that his 24-year-old self could never have understood. Whether you're a musician, writer, runner, entrepreneur, or anyone who has ever put a dream on hold, this conversation is a reminder that some passions don't disappear. They simply wait for us to return.   Connect with Greg Amici: Website: https://gregamici.com YouTube: @gregamicimusic   💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM

In this episode of GenX Journeys, Paul welcomes Marine Corps combat veteran and author Keith Cole for a deeply honest conversation about trauma, burnout, faith, resilience, and recovery. Keith shares his journey from growing up wanting to become a Methodist minister to serving as a machine gunner in Vietnam, where he was wounded three times in combat. After returning home, he carried decades of emotional weight in silence while building a successful career as a CPA, raising his younger siblings after the loss of his mother, and pushing himself beyond exhaustion. Eventually, burnout caught up with him. Keith opens up about the sleepless nights, emotional turmoil, drinking, and the breaking point that led him to cry out to God for help — a moment that ultimately inspired his book, Burnout: God's Recovery Plan. Together, Paul and Keith discuss: Vietnam combat experiences and trauma The emotional toll of notifying families of fallen Marines Why so many people suffer silently Burnout in veterans, professionals, caregivers, and everyday life The importance of asking for help Faith, discipline, and healing Creating healthy routines and boundaries Keith's PRAISER recovery framework and workbook This conversation is especially powerful for anyone feeling emotionally exhausted, overwhelmed, stuck, or burned out from carrying too much for too long. Keith's story is a reminder that recovery is possible - and that asking for help is not weakness, but strength. Connect with Keith Cole: Website: recoverybyfaith.com Book: Burnout: God's Recovery Plan   💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM

For this episode of GenX Journeys, Paul sits down with Devin Fish for one of the most honest and emotionally powerful conversations the show has featured yet. Growing up in poverty, constantly moving from place to place, and surrounded by addiction and instability, Devin entered adulthood carrying more weight than most people face in a lifetime. Before even beginning his Army career, he experienced trauma that would shape the years ahead — including family addiction, loss, depression, online exploitation, blackmail, and moments where he seriously questioned whether he wanted to keep going at all. But this isn't just a story about survival. It's a story about resilience, reinvention, mental health, purpose, and learning how to rebuild your life one hard question at a time. Devin opens up about how those experiences eventually led him to write his book, Answering the Hard Questions: Let It Be the End of the Chapter, Not the End of the Book, a deeply personal reflection on resilience, mental health, purpose, and finding hope after life's darkest moments. In this episode, we discuss: Growing up with instability and poverty Joining the Army and searching for direction Losing his mother while serving Mental health struggles and suicidal thoughts Online scams, emotional isolation, and blackmail Reinventing himself through service and leadership Why vulnerability can help others heal Writing his book and speaking openly about resilience The importance of letting a painful chapter end — without ending your story This episode is raw, inspiring, and deeply human — especially for anyone who has ever felt stuck, broken, alone, or overwhelmed by life. Because as Devin says: "Let it be the end of the chapter… not the end of the book." Connect with Devin Fish: Book: Answering the Hard Questions on Amazon Facebook: Devin Fish on Facebook Email: [email protected] If this episode resonated with you, please follow, rate, and share GenX Journeys with someone who might need this conversation today.   💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM

What happens after life changes in ways you never saw coming? In this episode of GenX Journeys, Paul sits down with author and personal brand strategist Chanoa Inez to explore what it really takes to rebuild, realign, and start dreaming again after loss, upheaval, or major life transitions. After experiencing a sudden and devastating loss, Chanoa found herself in a place many of us know too well - functioning on the surface, but quietly shrinking her dreams without even realizing it. What followed was a powerful journey of self-discovery, healing, and reinvention that ultimately led to her book Dream On. This conversation goes beyond surface-level positivity. It's about reclaiming your life, reconnecting with who you are, and giving yourself permission to dream bigger—even when it feels impossible. 🔑 In This Episode, We Cover: Why we unknowingly shrink our dreams after loss or setbacks The difference between real gratitude vs. surface-level gratitude How the simple shift from "I have to" → "I get to" can change everything The hidden ways we fall out of alignment in life and business Why being authentic is less exhausting—and more powerful—than wearing a mask How grief can show up in unexpected ways, including physical health The truth about meditation (and why "I can't do it" is a limiting belief) What it really means to reinvent yourself without losing who you are 💡 Key Takeaway Sometimes we think we've moved on—but in reality, we've just made our lives smaller to feel safe. The real work is recognizing that… and choosing to dream again anyway. 📚 Resources & Links Chanoa Inez's book: Dream On: How to Create a New Life via Dreams After Upheaval or Loss Website: https://chanoainez.com Program: Magnetize Your Personal Brand LinkedIn: @chanoa InstagramL @chanoainez (Full links also available in episode description on your podcast app) 🎧 Connect with GenX Journeys Follow the show for more conversations on reinvention, resilience, and living with intention Share this episode with someone who might need a reminder: it's not too late to start again 🎤 Closing Thought Life is going to change—sometimes in ways we never expect. But the ability to dream again? That's still yours. Always. 💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM

What does it really take to change your life? In this episode of GenX Journeys, Paul sits down with Matt Melvin, whose journey includes prison, addiction, and multiple life resets—but more importantly, a complete shift in mindset. While Matt shares his story in his book Bullied Behind Bars, this conversation focuses on what came after: the inner work. From moving out of victimhood and into accountability, to building discipline, faith, and self-awareness, Matt breaks down the principles that helped him rebuild his life from the inside out. This is a real, unfiltered conversation about mindset, mental health, and the kind of honest reflection most people avoid—but that leads to lasting change. If you're ready to stop making excuses and start taking ownership, this episode will challenge you in all the right ways. 🔑 What You'll Hear in This Episode The shift from victimhood to full accountability How small decisions can lead to life-altering consequences Why mindset is everything when it comes to personal growth The role of discipline, faith, and daily habits How environment and relationships influence your direction Why journaling and self-reflection are powerful tools for change The importance of real conversations over surface-level talk Why many people struggle to express emotions—and how to change that 💡 Key Takeaways You can't change your life until you take responsibility for it Awareness is the foundation of growth Your environment matters more than you think Growth requires honesty, even when it's uncomfortable Real change is built through daily habits and decisions 📚 About Matt Melvin Matt Melvin is the author of Bullied Behind Bars: A Gay Christian Trump Supporter Goes to Prison. His story is one of transformation through discipline, faith, and radical accountability after facing addiction and incarceration. 🔗 Connect with Matt Instagram: @BulliedBehindBars Facebook: Matthew Melvin X: @BarsBullied email: [email protected] Book: Bully Behind Bars (available on Amazon) 🎧 Listen & Watch Available on all podcast platforms, with the full video version on YouTube. 🔥 Final Thought You don't have to control everything that happens to you—but you do control what happens next.   💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM

What do you do when the life you built no longer feels like it fits? In this episode of GenX Journeys, I'm joined by Camille Miller—three-time bestselling author, business designer, and founder of the Soul Professional Movement. Together, we explore what it means to step out of alignment… and how to find your way back. If you've ever felt stuck, restless, or like something is missing—even when everything looks "right" on paper—this conversation will resonate. We talk about reinvention, authenticity, and why GenXers, in particular, are uniquely wired to evolve, adapt, and build something more meaningful in this next chapter of life. 🔑 In This Episode, We Discuss: Why so many people feel out of alignment after years in traditional careers The shift from stability to purpose-driven work How authenticity attracts new opportunities Letting go of identities that no longer serve you The importance of community and surrounding yourself with the right people Simple ways to begin realigning your life and purpose ✍️ A Simple Exercise to Get Started Camille shares a powerful starting point: Take a piece of paper and write down: What you want in your life moving forward What you no longer want or will no longer accept From there, start building a life that aligns with who you are today—not who you used to be. 🌍 About Camille Miller Camille Miller is a three-time bestselling author and the founder of the Soul Professional Movement, a global community helping individuals create purpose-driven businesses and lives aligned with their authentic selves. 🌐 Learn more: https://soulprofessional.com   💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM

What happens when the soundtrack of the 1980s comes roaring back to life with big vocals, big energy, and a whole lot of heart? In this episode of GenX Journeys, Paul is joined by GenX Book Club co-host Suzanne Mattaboni for a lively conversation with Rob and Lisa of Rubixx, one of the country's premier 80s tribute bands. Together, they dive into what makes 80s music so unforgettable, how Rubixx creates a full-on experience rather than just a performance, and why the songs of that decade still bring people together across generations. Rob and Lisa share the origin story of the band, how they build their setlists to keep audiences singing and dancing, and the fun behind the costumes, visuals, movie-theme medleys, duets, and onstage chemistry that make a Rubixx show feel like a time machine with amplifiers. The conversation also explores the magic of MTV, the power of 80s soundtracks, the wide range of genres that defined the decade, and the challenge of performing these iconic songs live while keeping their energy intact. Along the way, there are plenty of laughs, behind-the-scenes stories, and a clear love for the music that shaped a generation. Whether you were raised on synth-pop, power ballads, movie anthems, freestyle, new wave, or arena rock, this episode is a celebration of the music, memories, and community that still make the 80s hit hard today. In this episode: How Rubixx came together and evolved into the band it is today Why 80s music still resonates so deeply with audiences The art of creating a full visual and musical experience on stage Favorite crowd-pleasers, duets, and movie-theme moments The influence of MTV on music, fashion, and identity Songs that are tougher to perform than they sound Why authenticity, camaraderie, and zero ego matter in a live band Upcoming shows and where to find Rubixx online If you love 80s music, live performance, and stories about people keeping the spirit of a generation alive, this one is for you. Connect with Rubixx 🎥 TikTok: @RubixxBand 📷 Instagram: RubixxBand 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Rubixxband 📺 YouTube: @RubixxBand More from the GenX Book Club Crew 📖 Suzanne Mattaboni (Author of Once in a Lifetime) 🔹 Get her book anywhere books are sold, including Kindle Unlimited and onceinalifetimenovel.com 🔹 Visit her at suzannemattaboni.com 🔹 Follow Suzanne: 📷 Instagram: @suzannemattaboni80s 🐦 X: @suzmattaboni 📘 Facebook: Suzanne Mattaboni 🎙️ Del Roehling (Host of 80s at 8 on 91.1 WEDM FM) 🔹 Tune in to 80s at 8 for all your favorite throwback tunes 🔹 Get your daily dose of '80s news on the 80s at 8 Facebook page 💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM

In this powerful episode of GenX Journeys, Paul welcomes Louie Alessio — a retired Marine who served 25 years, a husband, father, teacher in his parish, and author of the upcoming book So There I Was… Out of Ammo. Louie shares his story of growing up Catholic in Youngstown, Ohio, drifting away from faith, serving in the Marines, and eventually confronting the emotional and spiritual weight of transition, regret, and moral injury after retirement. What followed was not just a return to Church, but a profound rediscovery of faith, healing, purpose, and mercy. Together, Paul and Louie discuss military life, identity after service, the challenges of civilian transition, the pull of social media and modern distraction, the importance of prayer, and how faith can reshape the way we show up for our families and the world around us. Louie also opens up about a dark season after retirement, the divine timing that helped save his life, and how that turning point led him back to the Church and into a new mission of helping others through writing, ministry, and witness. This is a moving conversation about resilience, redemption, and the reminder that sometimes the road back becomes the most important journey of all. In this episode: Louie's Catholic upbringing in Youngstown, Ohio Why he chose to follow his brother into the Marine Corps What 25 years of military service taught him about discipline, character, and identity How virtues can become distorted without a deeper moral foundation What "moral injury" means and how it can surface after service The difficulty of transitioning out of the military and back into civilian life Louie's darkest season after retirement and the intervention that changed everything How a faith-based veterans program helped awaken something in him Returning to Mass after decades away How faith transformed his outlook as a husband, father, veteran, and man The impact of prayer, compassion, and empathy in everyday life Why he began writing about healing, faith, and purpose His upcoming book, So There I Was… Out of Ammo A message of hope for anyone who feels distant from faith or unsure how to find their way back   Connect with Louie Alessio 📘 Facebook: Louie Alessio   Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM

In this episode of the GenX Book Club, Paul Stroessner and Suzanne Mattaboni dive into Ordinary People, Judith Guest's powerful 1976 debut novel, and the acclaimed 1980 film adaptation directed by Robert Redford. Paul and Suzanne explore the emotional depth of this story, from Conrad's survivor's guilt and fragile recovery to the very different ways each member of the Jarrett family processes grief. They discuss the novel's psychological richness, the film's remarkable faithfulness to the book, and how their perspectives on characters like Beth changed over time. They also talk about the film's standout performances from Timothy Hutton, Mary Tyler Moore, Donald Sutherland, and Judd Hirsch, why the story still hits hard decades later, and how Ordinary People remains a moving portrait of family, trauma, healing, and emotional survival. In this episode: Judith Guest's debut novel and why it became such a major success Robert Redford's directorial debut and the film's Oscar-winning legacy Why Ordinary People still feels emotionally raw and relevant Conrad's healing journey and the impact of survivor's guilt Beth's complexity and how the book adds more nuance to her character The powerful therapy scenes with Dr. Berger Key differences between the book and film Why this story remains such a strong example of character-driven storytelling Spoiler warning: This episode contains major spoilers for both the book and the film. Next up in the GenX Book Club: A lighter change of pace with Born Standing Up by Steve Martin   More from the GenX Book Club Crew 📖 Suzanne Mattaboni (Author of Once in a Lifetime) 🔹 Get her book anywhere books are sold, including Kindle Unlimited and onceinalifetimenovel.com 🔹 Visit her at suzannemattaboni.com 🔹 Follow Suzanne: 📷 Instagram: @suzannemattaboni80s 🐦 X: @suzmattaboni 📘 Facebook: Suzanne Mattaboni 🎙️ Del Roehling (Host of 80s at 8 on 91.1 WEDM FM) 🔹 Tune in to 80s at 8 for all your favorite throwback tunes 🔹 Get your daily dose of '80s news on the 80s at 8 Facebook page 💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 💡 Whether you're a die-hard '80s fan, a nostalgia lover, or just someone who enjoys a great book club discussion, this episode is packed with fun, wisdom, and plenty of throwback vibes. If you enjoyed this episode, please follow/subscribe on your favorite podcast app and leave a review. And tell us:

Steve Spears, creator and co-host of Stuck in the '80s, joins Paul Stroessner and Suzanne Mattaboni to celebrate 20 years of 80s podcasting—and to discuss his new book, Stuck in the '80s: 20 Years of Conversations with Pop Culture Icons Who Defined the Decade. From early podcasting chaos to unforgettable celebrity interviews and the community built along the way, this episode is a nostalgic deep dive into the decade that still connects us.   Steve joins us to talk about his brand-new book: Stuck in the '80s: 20 Years of Conversations with Pop Culture Icons Who Defined the Decade The book pulls together stories, reflections, behind-the-scenes moments, and lessons learned from more than two decades of interviewing the artists, actors, and cultural figures who shaped Generation X. In this episode, we discuss: How Stuck in the '80s began as a newspaper assignment in the early days of podcasting What it was like recording episodes with handheld mics at a cafeteria table The nerves (and occasional nausea!) before interviewing legends Interview "misfires" and what they taught Steve about preparation and connection Why the best interviews happen when you drop the script and just have a conversation How writing the book changed Steve's perspective on 20 years of work The powerful sense of community built around shared 80s memories The wild fun of The 80s Cruise, theme nights, and Steve's legendary trivia sessions Why nostalgia isn't about being "stuck" — it's about shared identity and connection Steve's book is available through major retailers, and fans of the podcast will love the added context, behind-the-scenes reflections, and personal stories that didn't always make it into the original episodes. Connect with Steve Spears 🌎 Website: SIT80s.com Stuck in the '80s Podcast can be found on all podcast apps Order Stuck in the '80s: 20 Years of Conversations with Pop Culture Icons Who Defined a Decade on Amazon Book: Stuck in the '80s: 20 Years of Conversations with Pop Culture Icons Who Defined the Decade Connect with Suzanne Mattaboni 🔹 Get her book anywhere books are sold, including Kindle Unlimited and onceinalifetimenovel.com 🔹 Visit her at suzannemattaboni.com 🔹 Follow Suzanne: 📷 Instagram: @suzannemattaboni80s 🐦 X: @suzmattaboni 📘 Facebook: Suzanne Mattaboni Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM

Put on your skinny tie, crank the horn section, and try not to "black out" when you meet your heroes. 😄 In this roundtable episode, Paul is joined by GenX Book Club cohorts Suzanne Mattaboni and Del Roehling, plus special guests Caroline Connelly and Claire Young (from St. Louis, proudly repping their Huey shrine/koozie energy), to celebrate the music, movies, memories, and mythos of Huey Lewis and the News. We talk iconic hits, deep cuts, MTV-era videos, Back to the Future perfection, We Are the World, the "Ghostbusters" lawsuit, and Huey's later-life health challenges—plus a detour into 80s cruises, costumes, and the kind of friendship origin story you only get when someone barges into your office and says, "We're going on a boat." What You'll Hear in This Episode How Huey Lewis accidentally became the reason an entire friend group (and a whole company!) exists First Huey memories: MTV, family road trips, and that Back to the Future opening scene that still hits every time Album talk: Picture This, Sports, Fore!, and favorite tracks (including the underrated ones) Huey's Meniere's disease and how it changed his relationship with music and performing The legendary We Are the World documentary moments The American Psycho "Hip to Be Square" cultural imprint (and Huey's spoof with Weird Al) Meeting Huey in person… and the extremely relatable "I blacked out" phenomenon Back to the Future: The Musical and its extra love letter to Huey Bonus: 80s Cruise talk—lineups, traditions, costumes, and why the bathtub had to be sacrificed   Guests & Links Caroline Connelly + Claire Young (Clocktower Experiences) Website: ClocktowerEXM.com (Events, festivals, activations, fashion shows, tournaments, and more) Suzanne Mattaboni 📖 Suzanne Mattaboni (Author of Once in a Lifetime) 🔹 Get her book anywhere books are sold, including Kindle Unlimited and onceinalifetimenovel.com 🔹 Visit her at suzannemattaboni.com 🔹 Follow Suzanne: 📷 Instagram: @suzannemattaboni80s 🐦 X: @suzmattaboni 📘 Facebook: Suzanne Mattaboni 🎙️ Del Roehling (Host of 80s at 8 on 91.1 WEDM FM) 🔹 Tune in to 80s at 8 for all your favorite throwback tunes 🔹 Get your daily dose of '80s news on the 80s at 8 Facebook page 💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM

What does it really mean to choose life? In this episode of GenX Journeys, Paul sits down with Sanet van Breda—a global community builder, voice amplifier, and passionate advocate for self-love—to explore how one powerful decision can change everything. Sanet shares her deeply personal journey of transformation, beginning with a moment of brutal honesty in front of the mirror and leading to a life rooted in purpose, joy, and service. Through self-love, mindfulness, and the courage to use her voice, she didn't just change her own life—she began creating ripple effects that have touched people across the world. This conversation dives into: Choosing life when everything feels heavy Reclaiming your voice after years of self-doubt How self-love becomes the foundation for confidence and boundaries The power of community, storytelling, and being truly seen Why it's never too late to rediscover your spark With warmth, humor, and plenty of heart, this episode is a reminder that your story matters—and that even the smallest shift can lead to profound change. If you've ever felt stuck, unseen, or unsure of your next step, this conversation is for you. About GenX Journeys GenX Journeys is a podcast about reinvention, resilience, and becoming who you were meant to be—no matter where you're starting from. Hosted by Paul Stroessner, the show features honest conversations that celebrate growth, curiosity, and the power of shared stories. Connect with Sanet van Breda Website: https://selflove4me.com Facebook Group (Women): Diamond Beauties Forever Facebook Group (Men): Tanzanite Heroes Instagram: @sanetvanbreda/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanet-van-breda/   🎧 Listen & Subscribe to GenX Journeys ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 🌎 Connect with Me 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 💡 If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it with a fellow GenXer—let's keep this community growing! 🎤 Until next time—embrace the past, own the present, and build an epic future!

Welcome back to the GenX Book Club—and happy New Year! Paul Stroessner, Del Roehling and Suzanne Mattaboni talk about Future Boy by Michael J. Fox, a fast, entertaining behind-the-scenes snapshot of one of the most intense stretches of Fox's career: filming Back to the Future while also starring on Family Ties. The conversation dives into the pressure of stepping into a role that was already being filmed, the legendary production timeline, and the details Gen X fans love—like the Eric Stoltz "what-if," Fox meeting Lea Thompson just minutes before filming, Marty's iconic wardrobe, the Nike Bruins story, the stunt double moment that sounds too ridiculous to be true, and how Fox's comedic instincts helped shape one of the most beloved movies of all time. Plus: a fun side-quest into the Back to the Future: The Hill Valley Cookbook (yes, it's real), including how it connects to the Radical Sabbatical event. In This Episode Why Future Boy is a perfect GenX Book Club pick Rewatching Back to the Future (including its return to theaters) The unbelievable detail: Fox met Lea Thompson about 10 minutes before filming their first scene TV actors vs. movie actors in the '80s—and how that changed over time Back to the Future: The Hill Valley Cookbook The Eric Stoltz version: how different might the movie have been? The "no sleep" schedule: Family Ties by day, Back to the Future by night Stunts, wardrobe, and the real people behind the scenes Marty's Nike Bruins and the origin story behind the shoe scramble The Johnny B. Goode performance and Fox's attention to detail Why the audiobook works so well (Fox narrates, with additional audio clips) Next month's possible pick: Ordinary People   More from the GenX Book Club Crew 📖 Suzanne Mattaboni (Author of Once in a Lifetime) 🔹 Get her book anywhere books are sold, including Kindle Unlimited and onceinalifetimenovel.com 🔹 Visit her at suzannemattaboni.com 🔹 Follow Suzanne: 📷 Instagram: @suzannemattaboni80s 🐦 X: @suzmattaboni 📘 Facebook: Suzanne Mattaboni 🎙️ Del Roehling (Host of 80s at 8 on 91.1 WEDM FM) 🔹 Tune in to 80s at 8 for all your favorite throwback tunes 🔹 Get your daily dose of '80s news on the 80s at 8 Facebook page 💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 💡 Whether you're a die-hard '80s fan, a nostalgia lover, or just someone who enjoys a great book club discussion, this episode is packed with fun, wisdom, and plenty of throwback vibes. If you enjoyed this episode, please follow/subscribe on your favorite podcast app and leave a review. And tell us: What's your favorite Back to the Future moment—and have you ever seen footage of the Eric Stoltz version?

This week on GenX Journeys, I'm joined by the multi-talented and endlessly creative Will Padilla — host of the hit podcast 1980s Now, composer, writer, actor, and author of Totally Bogus But True: Tales of the 1980s. If you grew up loving breakdancing battles, MTV, Knight Rider, The A-Team, Beastie Boys, or the neon-soaked energy of the 80s… this conversation will feel like coming home. But this episode isn't just nostalgia. It's creative reinvention, GenX resilience, and the reminder that it's never too late to return to the passions you thought you left behind. ✨ In This Episode We Dive Into: 🔥 Will's journey from the theater world of NYC to rediscovering his creative voice decades later 🔥 How podcasting became his gateway back into storytelling and the arts 🔥 Why the 1980s still captivate us — and how the decade continues to influence pop culture today 🔥 Landing interviews with icons like Nina Blackwood, Diane Franklin, and Cassandra Peterson (Elvira) 🔥 Writing his book of bizarre-but-true 80s stories — and the massive leap into publishing 🔥 The parallels between writing a book and running a marathon 🔥 The GenX creative comeback: why so many of us are returning to the passions we buried long ago 🔥 Breakdancing battles, Beastie Boys fandom, and chasing down DMC as a dream guest 🔥 Our lightning round: favorite 80s music, celebrity crushes, and the shows that shaped us This conversation is packed with heart, humor, creativity, and classic GenX spirit — the drive to reinvent, rediscover, and keep moving forward, one step at a time. 📚 Will's Book Totally Bogus But True: Tales of the 1980s Available on Bookshop.org and Amazon. 🎧 Listen to Will's Podcast 1980s Now — a smart, funny, nostalgia-driven deep dive into the pop culture that shaped us and continues shaping the world today. YouTube All Audio Platforms   Website https://1980snow.com/   Facebook https://www.facebook.com/1980snow   Instagram https://www.instagram.com/1980snowpod   TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@1980snow   🎧 Listen & Subscribe to GenX Journeys ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 🌎 Connect with Me 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 💡 If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it with a fellow GenXer—let's keep this community growing! 🎤 Until next time—embrace the past, own the present, and build an epic future!

In this week's episode of GenX Journeys, I'm joined by the extraordinary Terry Yoffe — an 83-year-young business and communications coach, speaker, and podcaster who proves that it's never too late to grow, evolve, and reinvent yourself. Terry's story is a masterclass in resilience: from overcoming childhood challenges, to building a thriving career in sales without experience, to launching a coaching practice at 60, to starting her own podcast at 78, and now stepping onto stages as a speaker. She brings the wisdom of someone who has lived reinvention again and again — and has the mindset and energy of someone decades younger. We dive into what holds people back, how to move through fear, why age is truly just a number, and how Gen Xers (and anyone midlife and beyond) can create a powerful next chapter. I also share a big personal milestone of my own — finally finishing the Marine Corps Marathon after missing the time cutoff last year. Perseverance, discipline, and trusting the process carried me through. This conversation is packed with insight, humor, tough love, and the reminder that your best chapters may still be ahead of you. In This Episode We Talk About: My Marine Corps Marathon comeback and what it taught me Terry's lifelong pattern of reinvention (60s… 70s… 80s… and still going) How to make a career or life pivot when you feel stuck Why fear keeps us clinging to the "old trapeze" Viewing setbacks as redirection — not failure Why Gen Xers tend to feel younger than our age The power of self-advocacy and asking for what you want What companies gain when they blend younger and older generations How to turn inward and identify what's really holding you back Terry's latest chapter: speaking, inspiring, and rewriting the rules of aging   Connect with Terry Yoffe https://trycoaching.com/ Facebook Instagram YouTube Extraordinary Work: Conversations About Creating Change (available on all podcast apps)   🎧 Listen & Subscribe to GenX Journeys ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 🌎 Connect with Me 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 💡 If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it with a fellow GenXer—let's keep this community growing! 🎤 Until next time—embrace the past, own the present, and build an epic future!

The GenX Book Club is back! Paul, Del, and Suzanne reunite to discuss The Celebrants — a touching, funny, and deeply relatable novel about lifelong friendship, midlife rediscovery, and the pact to celebrate each other before it's too late. In this episode, the crew dives into the book's themes of connection, mortality, and resilience — and why it feels especially relevant to Generation X. Along the way, they share laughs, personal stories, and a few tangents (including Paul's triumphant Marine Corps Marathon finish 🏅). 📚 About the Book: After the sudden death of a college friend, five classmates make a pact: whenever one of them feels lost, the others will gather for a "living funeral" to remind them how much their life still matters. Years later, as they hit their 50s, the group reunites again — proving that it's never too late to reconnect, forgive, and start over. 💬 In This Episode: The unique premise of "living funerals" — and why it hit home for Gen X What the book says about friendship and second chances Our favorite scenes (no major spoilers!) The power of celebrating people while they're still here How The Celebrants could make a perfect Netflix series A few side trips: marathons, reunions, and even Ouija boards 👻   More from the GenX Book Club Crew 📖 Suzanne Mattaboni (Author of Once in a Lifetime) 🔹 Get her book anywhere books are sold, including Kindle Unlimited and onceinalifetimenovel.com 🔹 Visit her at suzannemattaboni.com 🔹 Follow Suzanne: 📷 Instagram: @suzannemattaboni80s 🐦 X: @suzmattaboni 📘 Facebook: Suzanne Mattaboni 🎙️ Del Roehling (Host of 80s at 8 on 91.1 WEDM FM) 🔹 Tune in to 80s at 8 for all your favorite throwback tunes 🔹 Get your daily dose of '80s news on the 80s at 8 Facebook page 💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 💡 Whether you're a die-hard '80s fan, a nostalgia lover, or just someone who enjoys a great book club discussion, this episode is packed with fun, wisdom, and plenty of throwback vibes. 📢 Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and share with fellow GenXers!

On this episode of GenX Journeys, Paul welcomes Shellie Stark—creative entrepreneur, guided meditation instructor, and host of the brand-new Seen & Supported podcast. Shellie opens up about becoming a caregiver for her mom during and after the pandemic, how she gradually lost pieces of herself, and the exact steps she used to find her way back. We dig into practical tools Gen Xers can use right now—especially those caring for aging parents while juggling everything else. What we cover How caregiving can slowly make you disappear—and how to notice it  Shellie's 3 core tips to begin finding yourself again: Ask for help (use your voice, say "yes" to support) Regulate your nervous system (simple 5-count box breathing) Small, consistent self-care (10 minutes to breathe, step outside, a routine that makes you feel good) Building community when you don't think you have one (family, friends, friends-of-loved-ones) Daily non-negotiables: affirmations on sticky notes, short morning meditation, hydration, Scripture, scheduling connection time, getting outdoors Shellie's clean beauty brand IHP Beauty (I Have Peace Beauty)—why she created toxin-free products after an allergic reaction, and how beauty begins within  Connect with Shellie Stark Website: https://www.shelliestark.com/ YouTube: Seen & Supported with Shellie Stark Instagram: @iamshelliestark Twitter/X: @iamshelliestark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shellie-stark-6b493227a   🎧 Listen & Subscribe to GenX Journeys ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 🌎 Connect with Me 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 💡 If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it with a fellow GenXer—let's keep this community growing! 🎤 Until next time—embrace the past, own the present, and build an epic future!

Ahoy, GenXers! This week we're revisiting one of the cheesiest, campiest, and most gloriously over-the-top cult classics of the '80s — The Pirate Movie! Originally released on August 6, 1982, this wild ride mashes up The Pirates of Penzance with slapstick humor, ridiculous musical numbers, and more innuendos than we realized as kids. Del Roehling and I (Paul Stroessner) first covered this back on January 21, 2022, and it quickly became one of the most popular Return to the '80s episodes. With Kristy McNichol and Christopher Atkins leading the charge, The Pirate Movie is part musical, part parody, and pure early-'80s cheese. Does it hold up today? Honestly… we seriously doubt it 😂. But that's half the fun! ⚠️ Spoiler Alert: We go deep into the details of the movie, so there are definitely spoilers ahead. The good news? You can watch the full film for free on YouTube — link below! Why This Movie Matters Sometimes the best discoveries come from life's little detours. For me, The Pirate Movie was the consolation prize when E.T. was sold out at the theater back in 1982. What could've been a disappointment turned into an unexpected treasure — and all these years later, it's still sparking conversations, laughter, and nostalgia. That's the heart of GenX Journeys: rediscovering the oddities, the quirks, and the memories that shaped who we are today. What you'll hear in this episode: Paul's story of seeing The Pirate Movie in theaters after missing out on E.T. How this quirky flop built a surprising cult following The humor that flew over our heads as kids (and makes us laugh for all the wrong reasons now) Musical highlights — including the unforgettable "Pumping and Blowing" 🎶🐟 Why multiple viewings reveal new gags — even if they're ridiculous Final verdict: a cheesy time capsule that's fun… but definitely not timeless 👉 Watch the full movie on YouTube (while it's still up): [The Pirate Movie (1982)]   🎙️ Del Roehling (Host of 80s at 8 on 91.1 WEDM FM) 🔹 Tune in to 80s at 8 for all your favorite throwback tunes 🔹 Get your daily dose of '80s news on the 80s at 8 Facebook page   💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM

Midlife isn't the beginning of the end — it's the beginning of your encore. 💥 In this episode of GenX Journeys, Paul sits down with Lydia Magnoli, online fitness coach, content creator, and founder of The Magnoli Method app. Lydia opens up about leaving a "safe" tenured job as a school psychologist to follow her true calling, losing 65+ pounds naturally, and helping women over 40 build strength, confidence, and healthier habits without a gym. You'll hear about: 🎭 Reinvention after 40: trusting the inner voice when others doubt you 💪 Why fitness after 40 is about energy and confidence, not just looks 🧘 The power of discipline vs. motivation (and daily practices that stick) 🥗 How small habit shifts lead to big transformations 📲 How Lydia's Magnoli Method app and coaching programs empower women to thrive Plus, stick around for some GenX fun: Lydia shares her favorite artists, her workout playlist go-tos, and her '80s/'90s crush. Whether you're ready to reinvent your career, your health, or your mindset — this episode will remind you: it's never too late. Connect with Lydia Magnoli App: The Magnoli Method (Apple & Android) Website: http://www.lydiamagnoli.com/ YouTube: Lydia Magnoli Instagram: @lydia.magnoli TikTok: @lydiamagnoli LinkedIn: @LydiaMagnoli Coaching: DM Lydia on Instagram for info on the Sculpt 21 Challenge   🎧 Listen & Subscribe to GenX Journeys ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 🌎 Connect with Me 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 💡 If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it with a fellow GenXer—let's keep this community growing! 🎤 Until next time—embrace the past, own the present, and build an epic future!

We're cranking up the anthems for this week's Throwback Thursday with a very special guest—Stan Bush! Best known for "The Touch" (The Transformers: The Movie) and "Never Surrender" (Kickboxer), Stan has built a career around motivational rock anthems that have inspired fans across generations. In this episode (originally released on December 22, 2020), Paul and Del chat with Stan about his journey from Gainesville clubs to LA studios, from winning an Emmy to being inducted into the Transformers Hall of Fame. We dive deep into: ✨ The story behind "The Touch" (and how it almost landed in Cobra instead of Transformers) ✨ The making of his 2020 album Dare to Dream ✨ Writing "Born to Fight" for Netflix anime shows Baki and Kengan Ashura ✨ Why '80s movie soundtracks hit different—and how his songs keep that legacy alive ✨ The discipline and healthy living that have kept his voice strong after all these years And on a personal note, several of Stan's songs are staples on Paul's running playlist—fueling miles, races, and training sessions with pure motivational fire. The timing of this re-release couldn't be more perfect: Stan's brand-new album Born for Battle drops on September 5, 2025, with the lead single "Invincible" already out now. Don't miss this inspiring conversation with one of the true voices of '80s rock anthems. Connect with Stan Bush 🌎 Website: stanbush.com 🐦 X/Twitter: @stan_bush 📘 Facebook: Stan Bush Music ▶️ YouTube: OfficialStanBush 🎙️ Del Roehling (Host of 80s at 8 on 91.1 WEDM FM) 🔹 Tune in to 80s at 8 for all your favorite throwback tunes 🔹 Get your daily dose of '80s news on the 80s at 8 Facebook page   💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM

This week we're flashing back to June 25, 2020, when Del Roehling and I revisited one of the greatest sequels of all time — Aliens (1986). Back then, I had just wrapped up a tough semester in my master's program for Creative Writing, and like so many of us, I was stuck at home during lockdown. Del and I took the opportunity to dive into James Cameron's explosive follow-up to Ridley Scott's Alien, and we had a blast breaking it all down. We cover: 👽 How Aliens shifted from horror to all-out action 🔥 Sigourney Weaver cementing her place as a true action hero 🎬 The unforgettable performances of Bill Paxton, Michael Biehn, Paul Reiser, and more 🚀 The iconic final showdown with the Alien Queen 💬 Plus, a little 80s nostalgia, some laughs, and even a few digs at the 90s Whether you're a die-hard fan who's seen Aliens 20 times, or you're watching it for the first time, this episode will take you right back into the heart-pounding action of 1986. 🎙️ Del Roehling (Host of 80s at 8 on 91.1 WEDM FM) 🔹 Tune in to 80s at 8 for all your favorite throwback tunes 🔹 Get your daily dose of '80s news on the 80s at 8 Facebook page 💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM

We're rewinding to April 2020 for a fun and fiery discussion with the Return to the '80s Brat Pack—Lizzie Newton, Del Roehling, and me—as we take on the 1985 Brat Pack classic St. Elmo's Fire. Recorded in the middle of lockdown, this episode is full of laughs, unexpected takes, and a whole lot of side tangents—from Rob Lowe's dangly earring and Demi Moore's pink apartment, to the characters we loved (or loved to hate). Lizzie shares why she kept expecting the bar to literally burst into flames, Del questions why anyone liked these characters at all, and I revisit the movie with fresh eyes after not seeing it for decades. We cover: 🎬 The cast's career highs and lows (and some surprising behind-the-scenes stories) 🤣 The most unlikable characters and why we couldn't look away 🎵 The killer '80s soundtrack, including that unforgettable theme 💬 Side conversations about Troop Beverly Hills, '80s décor trends, and cassette tape nostalgia 🤔 Why none of the characters really change—and whether we even cared So grab your popcorn, settle in, and join us for a rewatch discussion that's part movie talk, part '80s time capsule, and part comedy roast.   📱 Follow Lizzie on Instagram: @LizzieDNewton   🎙️ Del Roehling (Host of 80s at 8 on 91.1 WEDM FM) 🔹 Tune in to 80s at 8 for all your favorite throwback tunes 🔹 Get your daily dose of '80s news on the 80s at 8 Facebook page 💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 💡 Whether you're a die-hard '80s fan, a nostalgia lover, or just someone who enjoys a great book club discussion, this episode is packed with fun, wisdom, and plenty of throwback vibes. 📢 Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and share with fellow GenXers!

📅 Originally aired: April 12, 2019 🎧 Guest: Lizzie Newton (from Liz Laugh Cry) This week on Return to the '80s, we're throwing it back to one of our most fun and unfiltered episodes — the wild ride that is Netflix's The Dirt, the biopic based on the notorious rise (and mayhem) of Mötley Crüe. This episode marks the very first appearance of Lizzie Newton, and as listeners know, every episode she's been on since has become one of our most downloaded. We recorded this one together, in person, and the chemistry is off the charts. 🎸 In this episode, we dive into: Lizzie's newfound obsession with Mötley Crüe (and her journey from Taylor Swift to Tommy Lee) Paul's deep '80s rock roots and cassette tape dilemmas The Dirt vs. Bohemian Rhapsody — which rocked harder? The chaos of Crüe: hotel room trashing, drinking contests with Ozzy, and emotional breakdowns mid-tour Behind-the-scenes band drama and the tragic stories that shaped their journey The 1980s glam metal era, grunge takeovers, and what happened when the hair spray ran dry That infamous Ozzy Osbourne ant-snorting moment (RIP, Prince of Darkness 🕊️🖤) Why Lizzie would rather drink Tommy Lee's pee than snort ants (yes, really) Our love for other rock legends like Def Leppard, Queen, and Heart And possibly the only moment in podcast history where Freddie Mercury is compared to Justin Timberlake 🤯 ⚡️Plus: A nostalgic side rant on Britney Spears, Good Charlotte, and how elder millennials like Lizzie view the '80s Why Madonna is still queen And how glam rockers somehow still have the energy to tour at 70 (spoiler: oxygen chambers) This episode is pure '80s-meets-Millennial mayhem — and we wouldn't have it any other way. 📱 Follow Lizzie on Instagram: @LizzieDNewton   🎧 Listen & Subscribe ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 🌎 Connect with Me 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 💡 If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it with a fellow GenXer—let's keep this community growing! 🎤 Until next time—embrace the past, own the present, and build an epic future!

In this month's GenX Book Club, Paul Stroessner, Suzanne Mattaboni, and Del Roehling dive into Michael Koresky's heartfelt memoir-meets-film-critique, Films of Endearment: A Mother, a Son, and the '80s Films That Defined Us. Koresky revisits ten female-driven films of the 1980s with his mother, using them as a lens to explore family, loss, identity, and how movies shape the way we see the world. The discussion covers: How films like 9 to 5, Terms of Endearment, Aliens, and Baby Boom look different when revisited decades later Reflections on workplace inequality, motherhood, identity, and resilience portrayed in these movies How generational and personal experiences change the way we view iconic films over time Connections to movies like Come Back to the 5 & Dime, Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean and Crossing Delancey Why the '80s still feels like a "golden age" for character-driven, female-led stories The team also shares their own movie memories, from watching creature features as kids to experiencing how VHS tapes and early cable changed the way we consumed film, as well as some emotional connections to the films that Michael Koresky covers in this book. Next month's pick: The Celebrants by Steven Rowley, a heartfelt story of friendship and second chances that flashes between the '90s and today. More from the GenX Book Club Crew 📖 Suzanne Mattaboni (Author of Once in a Lifetime) 🔹 Get her book anywhere books are sold, including Kindle Unlimited and onceinalifetimenovel.com 🔹 Visit her at suzannemattaboni.com 🔹 Follow Suzanne: 📷 Instagram: @suzannemattaboni80s 🐦 X: @suzmattaboni 📘 Facebook: Suzanne Mattaboni 🎙️ Del Roehling (Host of 80s at 8 on 91.1 WEDM FM) 🔹 Tune in to 80s at 8 for all your favorite throwback tunes 🔹 Get your daily dose of '80s news on the 80s at 8 Facebook page 💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 💡 Whether you're a die-hard '80s fan, a nostalgia lover, or just someone who enjoys a great book club discussion, this episode is packed with fun, wisdom, and plenty of throwback vibes. 📢 Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and share with fellow GenXers!  

Originally released: April 13, 2017 In this special Throwback Thursday episode, Paul and Robert are joined by the legendary Doug McCoy—host of the now-retired McCoyCast podcast network, which included shows like Never Seen It, Crazy Creepy Cool Movies, and In the Theater. Doug also wrote the eBook TV in My Time. While none of Doug's past content is currently available online, we're thrilled to preserve this conversation as a tribute to his fantastic contributions to the retro podcasting world. Inspired by Doug's podcast Never Seen It, this episode takes the same approach: at least one of the three of us had never seen Highlander until prepping for the show. We discuss first impressions, what holds up, what doesn't, and how this cult classic became such a defining piece of '80s sci-fi/fantasy cinema. Also in this episode: 🎸 Robert gives a concert report on Journey—with Asia as the opening act 🎶 A round of "Play This, Not That," featuring Simple Minds ⚔️ And of course… swords, immortals, and Queen There can be only one… but luckily, this podcast episode made the cut.   🎧 Listen & Subscribe ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 🌎 Connect with Me 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 💡 If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it with a fellow GenXer—let's keep this community growing! 🎤 Until next time—embrace the past, own the present, and build an epic future!

In this deeply inspiring episode, Paul is joined by spiritual guide, author, and former Goldman Sachs VP Neal Bakshi, whose bold journey from Wall Street to worldwide healing retreats embodies everything GenX Journeys stands for: reinvention, purpose, and soul alignment. 💻 After narrowly recovering from a laptop disaster (kombucha meets keyboard!), Paul reflects on synchronicity and gratitude—and how sometimes, the universe has your back even when it doesn't feel like it. From there, Paul and Neal dive into: ✨ Grief and Transformation – How the sudden loss of Neal's mother became a catalyst for his spiritual awakening and personal realignment. 🧘 Meditation, Breathwork & Inner Balance – Why slowing down and going within is the antidote to modern chaos. (Yes, even for those who "can't meditate.") 🌍 Letting Go & Living Intentionally – Tools for releasing what no longer serves you, tuning into synchronicity, and tapping into the power of your own awareness. 📿 From Finance to Faith – Neal's shift from investment banking to energy healing, sacred ceremonies, and writing Banking on Angels, a book rooted in gratitude, alignment, and self-empowerment. 🌀 Energetic Alignment & Chakras in Leadership – A sneak peek at Neal's upcoming book Seven Chakras of Leadership, co-authored with Dr. Zohra Damani, and how conscious leadership can transform not just businesses—but the world. 🎧 Whether you're seeking peace, purpose, or simply a new lens to view your journey—this episode is a powerful reminder: You don't manifest what you want. You manifest who you are. 🔗 Connect with Neal Bakshi Website: nealbakshi.com Instagram: @nealbakshi TikTok: @nealbakshi LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nealbakshi/ Book: Banking on Angels – Available now New Release: Seven Chakras of Leadership – Coming soon!   🎧 Listen & Subscribe to GenX Journeys ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 🌎 Connect with Me 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 💡 If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it with a fellow GenXer—let's keep this community growing! 🎤 Until next time—embrace the past, own the present, and build an epic future!  

Get ready to crank up the volume and rewind the tape as GenX Journeys joins forces with The Long Rewind for an epic crossover episode all about '80s Movie Soundtracks! This is Paul's first official crossover episode, released both on GenX Journeys and The Long Rewind feeds—so no matter where you're tuning in, you're in for a rad ride through one of the best parts of '80s pop culture. In this episode: 🎵 Paul and Dustin share their earliest memories of movie soundtracks, and the albums that first hooked them on cinematic music. 🎶 They discuss why soundtracks exploded in popularity during the 1980s, shaping both the music and film industries in unforgettable ways. 💿 They run through some of the biggest-selling soundtracks of the decade, from chart-topping blockbusters to beloved cult classics. 🔥 Finally, they each reveal their personal Top 10 favorite '80s soundtracks—expect some classics, a few surprises, and a whole lot of nostalgia.   The Long Rewind 🎙️ Hosts: Dustin Morrow & Lisa Molinelli 🔗 Listen anywhere you get podcasts! 🛠 Note from Paul: There are a few spots where my audio quality dips a bit because my trusty Blue Snowball mic finally decided to retire after 9 years. RIP Blue Snowball. But don't worry—the conversation is still awesome and totally worth the listen! Enjoy the episode—and let us know your own favorite '80s soundtracks! 🎧 Listen & Subscribe to GenX Journeys ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 🌎 Connect with Me 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 💡 If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it with a fellow GenXer—let's keep this community growing! 🎤 Until next time—embrace the past, own the present, and build an epic future!

In this episode, we're joined by the wonderfully multi-talented Laura Lee, author of Saturn's Favorite Music. Laura's creative path has been as eclectic as her writing: she's the author of 21 books across biography, humorous reference, fiction, and children's literature, and has worked as a professional mime, improvisational comic, and radio announcer. These days, she splits her time between writing and traveling with ballet master class tours alongside her partner, artistic director of the Russian Ballet Foundation. Described by the San Francisco Chronicle as having "a dry, humorous tone" that makes her a "charming companion," Laura brings warmth and wit to our conversation about her latest novel. About the Book Saturn's Favorite Music takes us back to the summer of 1992, following Clara Jane, an alternative music-loving broadcast graduate starting her first radio job at a small station in northern Michigan. While dreaming of rock-star radio fame, Clara navigates quirky small-town life, morning show banter, and the looming threat of automation replacing the human touch in broadcasting. Brimming with 90s nostalgia, the novel explores music, friendship, and how technology changes creative careers and relationships—a theme that's as timely today as ever. "Saturn's Favorite Music is a fun voyage back to the days of analog radio with all of its skipping records and clashing egos… highly relevant in the age of AI." In This Episode 🎧 Topics We Discuss: How Laura's fascinating career led her to writing Behind-the-scenes stories from working in radio: splicing tape, voicing commercials, and old-school technology Crafting a character-driven story and ensuring cover details match the narrative Morning show banter Laura's own experience as a morning DJ Music genres and how our listening habits have become more individualized Meeting music artists in real life Paul's Saturn's Favorite Music Spotify playlist featuring songs mentioned in the book The humorous chaos of being mistaken for both a pet-loss grieving author and a psychic named Laura Lee A nostalgic dive into one of the earliest viral audio rants: Casey Kasem's famous meltdown 🎶 Listen to the Playlist! Want to hear the music woven through Saturn's Favorite Music? Check out Paul's companion playlist on Spotify featuring songs mentioned in the book! https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0PVKnKsAcNKvdSfmwtMUoe?si=c110e9c965b9418a 📚 Learn More About Laura Lee: 🌐 Website: https://www.lauraleeauthor.com/   More from the GenX Book Club Crew 📖 Suzanne Mattaboni (Author of Once in a Lifetime) 🔹 Get her book anywhere books are sold, including Kindle Unlimited and onceinalifetimenovel.com 🔹 Visit her at suzannemattaboni.com 🔹 Follow Suzanne: 📷 Instagram: @suzannemattaboni80s 🐦 X: @suzmattaboni 📘 Facebook: Suzanne Mattaboni 🎙️ Del Roehling (Host of 80s at 8 on 91.1 WEDM FM) 🔹 Tune in to 80s at 8 for all your favorite throwback tunes 🔹 Get your daily dose of '80s news on the 80s at 8 Facebook page 💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 💡 Whether you're a die-hard '80s fan, a nostalgia lover, or just someone who enjoys a great book club discussion, this episode is packed with fun, wisdom, and plenty of throwback vibes. 📢 Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and share with fellow GenXers!

Originally Released: March 22, 2017 It's time to root for the bad guys—just this once. This week's Throwback Thursday is part of a special crossover event put together by The 80s League, a collaborative effort started by Dave from 80s Reboot Overdrive. The League brought together several blogs and podcasts (including Return to the '80s) to celebrate all things retro—and this month's theme is '80s Movie Villains! In this episode: Paul reviews the 2016 Ghostbusters reboot (Kristen Wiig, Melissa McCarthy, and crew). Robert and Paul discuss Robert's then-controversial article, In Defense of Journey Without Steve Perry, released after Journey was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Neal Schon was being bombarded with questions about Perry's return. A brand new Play This, Not That segment featuring Survivor—because they're more than just "Eye of the Tiger"! And finally, a deep dive into our favorite 80s villains—from Biff Tannen and Hans Gruber to The Kurgan and The Fratellis. 💥 You'll laugh, you'll hiss, and you'll be reminded just how important a great villain is to an unforgettable story. 🕸️ Check out the other 80s League contributors for the 80s movie villains theme: 80s Reboot Overdrive Killer Kitsch Old School Evil Rediscover the 80s Stuck in the 80s Weegiemidget Robert's Return to the '80s article   📩 Got a favorite '80s villain or want to join the discussion? Email Paul at [email protected] 🎧 Listen & Subscribe ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 🌎 Connect with Me 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 💡 If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it with a fellow GenXer—let's keep this community growing! 🎤 Until next time—embrace the past, own the present, and build an epic future!

📅 Originally aired: February 23, 2017 🎧 Episode (Turn It Up to) 11 of Return to the '80s Today we're cranking the volume all the way up to eleven as we revisit one of the most iconic and hilarious cult classics of the '80s—This Is Spinal Tap! In this re-release from 2017, Robert and I are joined once again by our good friend Scott Compton to break down the mockumentary that defined a genre and gave us some of the most quotable lines in comedy history. 🎸 Topics we cover include: Our favorite scenes (besides all of them) The band's surprisingly catchy music Legendary lines like "It's such a fine line between stupid and clever" Fun behind-the-scenes facts The real-life lawsuit over Spinal Tap merchandising rights And here's the kicker—at the time of this re-release, This Is Spinal Tap isn't available to stream anywhere. Not even to rent or buy digitally! If you've still got a DVD, hang on to it—it's a collector's item now. 🔥 Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering Tap for the first time, this episode is a love letter to a film that's still turning heads (and melting amps) decades later. —   🎧 Listen & Subscribe ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 🌎 Connect with Me 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 💡 If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it with a fellow GenXer—let's keep this community growing! 🎤 Until next time—embrace the past, own the present, and build an epic future!

We're breaking all the rules—and talking about Fight Club. Paul is joined by author and returning guest Suzanne Mattaboni for a deep dive into Chuck Palahniuk's cult classic novel (and the iconic 1999 film adaptation by David Fincher). 💥 In This Episode: The book vs. the movie: Why both versions hit hard in different ways Breaking down the twist (and how it still lands decades later) Themes of identity, consumerism, toxic masculinity, and waking up from the corporate coma Suzanne reveals the genius Easter egg of the quick Tyler Durden "splices" in early movie scenes Could Fight Club be made today? Would it hit the same in 2025? Why this story still resonates with GenX—and what it says about a generation searching for meaning 📖 Book by: Chuck Palahniuk 🎬 Movie Directed by: David Fincher Starring: Edward Norton, Brad Pitt, Helena Bonham Carter ⚠️ SPOILER WARNING: We discuss major plot twists from both the book and the movie. If you haven't read or watched Fight Club yet, you've been warned. 📢 Next Month's Pick: Saturn's Favorite Music by Laura Lee — and she'll be joining us for the episode! 📻✨   More from the GenX Book Club Crew 📖 Suzanne Mattaboni (Author of Once in a Lifetime) 🔹 Get her book anywhere books are sold, including Kindle Unlimited and onceinalifetimenovel.com 🔹 Visit her at suzannemattaboni.com 🔹 Follow Suzanne: 📷 Instagram: @suzannemattaboni80s 🐦 X: @suzmattaboni 📘 Facebook: Suzanne Mattaboni 🎙️ Del Roehling (Host of 80s at 8 on 91.1 WEDM FM) 🔹 Tune in to 80s at 8 for all your favorite throwback tunes 🔹 Get your daily dose of '80s news on the 80s at 8 Facebook page 💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 💡 Whether you're a die-hard '80s fan, a nostalgia lover, or just someone who enjoys a great book club discussion, this episode is packed with fun, wisdom, and plenty of throwback vibes. 📢 Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and share with fellow GenXers!

🎸 Bon Jovi, Big Hair, and Our First Guest Ever! Originally aired: December 1, 2016 on Return to the '80s This Return to the '80s classic is one for the time capsule! Join Paul and Robert as they welcome their very first guest—Scott Compton, host of the now-retired but still legendary podcasts 80s Mixtape Autoreverse and 80s Reboot Overdrive. We kick things off with some 2016-era Rock and Roll Hall of Fame talk (Scott was literally casting his ballot for Journey mid-show!), reflect on the recent passing of TV icon Florence Henderson, and then crank up the volume for a full track-by-track breakdown of Bon Jovi's breakout album Slippery When Wet. We also share personal stories, memories tied to the music, and plenty of laughs along the way. ✨ Highlights include: A nostalgic tribute to Florence Henderson Hall of Fame debates: Journey, ELO, Yes, and yes... Pearl Jam 😏 Track-by-track breakdown of Slippery When Wet Stories behind the songs—including one that came full circle in the wildest way   🎧 Listen & Subscribe ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 🌎 Connect with Me 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 💡 If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it with a fellow GenXer—let's keep this community growing! 🎤 Until next time—embrace the past, own the present, and build an epic future!

In this soul-stirring episode of GenX Journeys, Paul sits down with singer-songwriter and worship leader Cynthia Lok to talk about the power of music, faith, and rediscovery. 💫 Cynthia opens up about the defining moment that reignited her spiritual journey—and how that path led her into the world of music and songwriting. With raw honesty and contagious energy, she shares how her faith took center stage in her life, and how her songs are helping others find their way back to hope and healing. 🎶 We dive into the story behind her breakout single "The Breaker"—a bold, prophetic anthem that has moved hearts and turned listeners back toward God. Cynthia also offers heartfelt advice for anyone feeling distant from their spiritual roots or wondering how to reconnect with their faith. Whether you're on your own spiritual journey, love stories of transformation, or just want to hear how one voice can spark real change—this episode is for you. 🔊 In this episode: How Cynthia dove headfirst into her faith The surprising way she found her voice through music Her creative process as a songwriter The impact her music has had on others What The Breaker means to her—and to her listeners Encouragement for those seeking to reconnect with faith 🛤️ GenX Journeys is all about rediscovery, reinvention, and resilience. This episode is a perfect reminder that no matter where you are in life—it's never too late to sing a new song. 🎧 Available now on all podcast platforms! 📲 Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and share with someone who needs a little inspiration today.   🌟 Connect with Cynthia Lok 🎵 Website: cynthialokmusic.com 📷 Instagram: @cynthialokmusic 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/cynthialokmusic 🕊️ Join Her Community: The Wholly Devoted Ones 🎧 Listen to Cynthia's Music On: ✅ Spotify ✅ Apple Music ✅ Amazon Music ✅ YouTube ✅ SoundCloud   🎧 Listen & Subscribe to GenX Journeys ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 🌎 Connect with Me 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 💡 If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it with a fellow GenXer—let's keep this community growing! 🎤 Until next time—embrace the past, own the present, and build an epic future!

Originally aired: March 15, 2019 on Return to the '80s This week on GenX Journeys Throwback Thursday, we're revisiting a gem from the Return to the '80s archives—my incredible conversation with film critic and author Helen O'Hara! Helen writes for Empire Magazine and The Telegraph, and she had just released her brilliant book Best Movies of the 80s when we recorded this episode. We kicked things off by celebrating her book and our shared love for some of the most iconic films of the decade. Then we dove into The Princess Bride—a film beloved by many, and one of Helen's all-time favorites (mine too!). We talked about the legendary cast, memorable moments, and the magic that's made it a cultural classic. But the conversation also took an insightful turn as we explored how the title may have initially alienated some viewers, particularly boys and men, and why Hollywood still tends to avoid feminine-leaning titles. Whether you're a lifelong fan of The Princess Bride or just love geeking out over '80s movies, this one's for you. 🎬 Topics include: Helen's book Best Movies of the 80s (available on Amazon) Behind-the-scenes trivia from The Princess Bride Gender bias in movie titles and marketing Why the '80s remains a magical movie decade 📚 Grab Helen's book here: [Amazon] 📲 Follow Helen on Twitter/X: @HelenLOHara   🎧 Listen & Subscribe ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 🌎 Connect with Me 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 💡 If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it with a fellow GenXer—let's keep this community growing! 🎤 Until next time—embrace the past, own the present, and build an epic future!

Hosts: Paul Stroessner & Suzanne Mattaboni In this episode of the GenX Book Club, Paul is joined by fellow GenX writer Suzanne Mattaboni (Once in a Lifetime) for a heartfelt, honest, and occasionally hilarious discussion about The Perks of Being a Wallflower—Stephen Chbosky's raw and unforgettable coming-of-age story. We unpack the novel's unique letter-based format and how it allows us to experience Charlie's inner world with startling intimacy. Then we turn to the film adaptation—talking about the pitch-perfect cast (hello, Emma Watson and Ezra Miller), the soundtrack that's pure mixtape magic, and those unforgettable Rocky Horror scenes that made us feel like we were right there in the audience. And yes, we get into that tunnel scene… Suzanne couldn't help but slip into full-on mom mode at the sight of Sam standing in the back of a moving pickup truck. ("WHERE ARE THE SEATBELTS?!") 📚 In this episode: Why the book's format hits so hard How the movie lives up to the source material GenX reflections on being a "wallflower" Rocky Horror, David Bowie, and that tunnel scene If you've ever felt unseen, awkward, or like you were on the outside looking in—this story is for you. 🎧 Press play and relive the feels.   More from the GenX Book Club Crew 📖 Suzanne Mattaboni (Author of Once in a Lifetime) 🔹 Get her book anywhere books are sold, including Kindle Unlimited and onceinalifetimenovel.com 🔹 Visit her at suzannemattaboni.com 🔹 Follow Suzanne: 📷 Instagram: @suzannemattaboni80s 🐦 X: @suzmattaboni 📘 Facebook: Suzanne Mattaboni 🎙️ Del Roehling (Host of 80s at 8 on 91.1 WEDM FM) 🔹 Tune in to 80s at 8 for all your favorite throwback tunes 🔹 Get your daily dose of '80s news on the 80s at 8 Facebook page 💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 💡 Whether you're a die-hard '80s fan, a nostalgia lover, or just someone who enjoys a great book club discussion, this episode is packed with fun, wisdom, and plenty of throwback vibes. 📢 Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and share with fellow GenXers!

📆 Originally aired: December 13, 2016 🎙️ Hosted by Paul Stroessner | Co-host: Robert Mishou | Special Guest: Jim Vilk We're revving up the nostalgia machine and heading full throttle into the golden age of TV intros—the action-packed, high-octane theme songs of 1980s television! In this retro gem from the vault, I'm joined by our original co-host Robert Mishou and long-time Return to the '80s contributor and friend Jim Vilk, who's been part of our crew since the early blog days. (Jim even wrote the popular piece One-Hit Wonders? Not Level 42! – check it out here) 🎵 Main Topic: We each picked three unforgettable '80s action/adventure TV theme songs that left tire tracks on our hearts—and made sure to include at least one "must-have" anthem per round. You'll hear about: The Fall Guy The Dukes of Hazzard Hardcastle & McCormick Simon & Simon CHiPs Voyagers! Matt Houston Call to Glory The Greatest American Hero And of course, we all agreed on these iconic themes: Magnum P.I. The A-Team Miami Vice 🎶 Plus, we introduced a fun new segment: Play This, Not That – thanks to Jim! 🕊️ And we paused to pay tribute to several legends we lost around the time of this recording: Margaret Whitton (Major League) John Glenn, American astronaut Joseph Mascolo, best known as Stefano DiMera on Days of Our Lives 📩 Let's hear from you! Did this episode bring back memories? Could you see the visuals in your head as the theme songs played? We'd love to know your favorite '80s action/adventure TV themes—and if you want a Part 2! Email me at [email protected] Subscribe to GenX Journeys on your favorite podcast platform And remember... Embrace the past, own the present, and build an epic future.   🎧 Listen & Subscribe ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 🌎 Connect with Me 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 💡 If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it with a fellow GenXer—let's keep this community growing! 🎤 Until next time—embrace the past, own the present, and build an epic future!

Episode Title: '80s Sitcom Theme Songs (Originally aired: Oct 13, 2016) Cohost: Paul Stroessner & Robert Mishou Description: We're cranking the dial back to 2016—and even further back into our childhoods—for a look at some of the most iconic sitcom theme songs of the '80s! In this special Throwback Thursday re-release, I'm joined by my original cohost Robert Mishou as we each share our top 5 sitcom themes and talk about why they've stood the test of time. 🎵 From the heartfelt (Growing Pains) to the hilarious (Alf), the funky (Diff'rent Strokes) to the unforgettable (Cheers), these tunes weren't just intros—they were part of the show's identity. And yeah… I even let Robert sneak in Fresh Prince. 😄 At the time of recording, the 2016 Ghostbusters reboot was just about to hit theaters, Stranger Things had exploded, and Bon Jovi was releasing This House Is Not for Sale. The '80s were already making a comeback—and we were all in. 💡 Note: The episode ends a little abruptly, as we originally transitioned into a full Ghostbusters follow-up that sadly never aired due to a massive audio glitch. (RIP, lost episode.) We Want to Hear From You! What are your favorite sitcom theme songs? Drop a comment on social, DM me, or shoot an email to [email protected]. Whether it's Family Ties, Perfect Strangers, or a hidden gem—we want to know!   🎧 Listen & Subscribe ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 🌎 Connect with Me 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 💡 If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it with a fellow GenXer—let's keep this community growing! 🎤 Until next time—embrace the past, own the present, and build an epic future!

This week on GenX Journeys, I'm officially hitting the pavement—again. After months of knowing it was coming, I finally pulled the trigger and signed up for the 50th Marine Corps Marathon. But here's the thing: even though I knew I was going to do it, something shifted the moment I actually signed up. That one action sparked a wave of motivation, momentum, and commitment I hadn't felt in a while. In this episode, I talk about: Why physically signing up or speaking your goals out loud creates a powerful mental shift How small steps like Day 1 of the Couch to 10K plan can reignite your fire What it felt like to return to the Boston Marathon as a spectator for the 4th year in a row Shoutouts to my amazing friends Kerri Nelson and Maurice Lowman, who crossed the Boston finish line this year like absolute champs And how seeing people of all backgrounds and abilities out there reminded me what resilience and reinvention really look like Whether you're chasing a marathon, a creative dream, or a comeback in your life—it all starts with one decision. This episode is your reminder to stop waiting and start moving. 🎧 Listen now and let's take that first step—together.   🎧 Listen & Subscribe ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 🌎 Connect with Me 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 💡 If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it with a fellow GenXer—let's keep this community growing! 🎤 Until next time—embrace the past, own the present, and build an epic future!

🎙️ Throwback Thursday – My Backstage Interview with Rubix Kube + Steve Brown & PJ Farley of Trixter! 📅 Originally recorded: April 21, 2018 | 🎧 First aired: April 28, 2018 This may just be my favorite interview ever. Why? Because I got to go backstage with my all-time favorite '80s tribute band Rubix Kube—and interview two absolute legends from the rock world: Steve Brown and PJ Farley of Trixter. 🤘 The night was electric, the energy was contagious, and the conversations? Unforgettable. 🎤 Interview Part 1: Rubix Kube I sat down with the band's powerhouse vocalists Cherie and Scott, and their insanely talented drummer—and my good friend—John, one of the band's founding members. We laughed a lot as they shared: How Rubix Kube came to life The creativity behind their costumes and show designs (Scott inherited some Muppet magic from his dad, an original Henson puppeteer!) A moving tribute to their late bassist David Z, whose tragic loss is still deeply felt in the music world 🎸 Interview Part 2: Steve Brown & PJ Farley (Trixter / Rubix Kube) Then I had the surreal experience of chatting with Steve Brown, who has literally filled in for Vivian Campbell in Def Leppard—sitting on a backstage couch with him was one of the biggest highlights of my podcasting career! He shared what it was like to play with the legendary band during Vivian's cancer treatment, and though he didn't mention it at the time, just months later he'd return to the stage with them again, covering for Phil Collen. PJ Farley also jumped in to talk about their shared journey in Trixter. They had a platinum selling debut album just as grunge was about to hit. But each album they have done has just gotten better and better. They also speak about collaborating with Eric Martin of the band Mr. Big. 💥 It's two interviews in one jam-packed episode full of energy, stories, laughs, and heartfelt moments. If you love the '80s, live music, and behind-the-scenes rock tales, this one's for you. 🎧 Listen now and relive this epic night with me!

🎙️ Throwback Thursday – The Breakfast Club (with Lizzie Newton) 📅 Originally aired: May 10, 2019 🎧 Re-released: April 11, 2025 Description: It's Throwback Thursday time! This week, we're rewinding to a special in-person crossover episode recorded with my good friend Lizzie Newton, originally released in 2019. Lizzie and I teamed up for a nostalgic deep dive into one of the most iconic Gen X films of all time—The Breakfast Club. But before we get to detention with the Brat Pack, I reveal the long-awaited results of our Phil Collins March Madness tournament! Sixteen songs entered... one classic emerged victorious. Can you feel it coming in the air tonight? 🥁 Then, we kick things off with concert stories—Rubix Kube for me, Cher for Lizzie—before diving into the movie that defined a generation. Believe it or not, this was Lizzie's first time watching The Breakfast Club, and her fresh take alongside my nostalgic memories made for an awesome conversation. Whether you're a brain, an athlete, a basket case, a princess, or a criminal—you're gonna love this one. In this episode: 🏆 Phil Collins March Madness – Full bracket breakdown & the winning song 🎤 Concert talk: Rubix Kube (Paul) & Cher (Lizzie) 🎬 The Breakfast Club – first impressions, favorite moments, and what it still teaches us today 🧠 Why the characters (and archetypes) still resonate with us decades later   💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM

🎙️ GenX Book Club – Mayte Garcia's The Most Beautiful: My Life with Prince Hosts: Paul Stroessner & Suzanne Mattaboni Book: The Most Beautiful: My Life with Prince by Mayte Garcia In this emotionally rich episode of GenX Book Club, Paul is joined by writer and GenXer Suzanne Mattaboni for a heartfelt and thought-provoking discussion about The Most Beautiful: My Life with Prince, the memoir by Mayte Garcia. Mayte was not only Prince's first wife but also a dancer, artist, and woman with her own compelling story. Suzanne and Paul dive into Mayte's life before, during, and after her time with Prince—from her early days as a prodigy belly dancer to the whirlwind romance and deep heartbreak that followed. 💜 Topics we cover: How Mayte's identity and ambitions evolved independently of Prince The beauty and complexity of their relationship Grief, resilience, and finding purpose after loss Behind-the-scenes glimpses of life with one of music's most enigmatic icons Reflections on how this memoir resonated with GenX readers Whether you're a lifelong Prince fan, new to Mayte's story, or just love deep book discussions, this one's for you. 📚 Book your spot for next month's read: The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky! 🎧 Listen now and join the conversation! 💬 Don't forget to share your thoughts and favorite moments with us on social @GenXJourneys or email [email protected].   More from the GenX Book Club Crew 📖 Suzanne Mattaboni (Author of Once in a Lifetime) 🔹 Get her book anywhere books are sold, including Kindle Unlimited and onceinalifetimenovel.com 🔹 Visit her at suzannemattaboni.com 🔹 Follow Suzanne: 📷 Instagram: @suzannemattaboni80s 🐦 X: @suzmattaboni 📘 Facebook: Suzanne Mattaboni 🎙️ Del Roehling (Host of 80s at 8 on 91.1 WEDM FM) 🔹 Tune in to 80s at 8 for all your favorite throwback tunes 🔹 Get your daily dose of '80s news on the 80s at 8 Facebook page 💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 💡 Whether you're a die-hard '80s fan, a nostalgia lover, or just someone who enjoys a great book club discussion, this episode is packed with fun, wisdom, and plenty of throwback vibes. 📢 Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and share with fellow GenXers!

Originally aired: March 31, 2022 It's the final installment of our Return to the '80s March Madness series! For our 5th Annual Tournament, we focused on the solo hits of the legendary Phil Collins—no Genesis tracks here, just 16 powerhouse songs going head-to-head in a Sweet Sixteen-style bracket. And yes, a couple of early-'90s singles made it into the mix—Something Happened on the Way to Heaven and I Wish It Would Rain Down—but since they're from his 1989 album ...But Seriously, they earned their place. Matchups include classics like: In the Air Tonight vs. One More Night Sussudio vs. Don't Lose My Number Against All Odds vs. I Don't Care Anymore …and more! This episode also features a fun collaboration with Gill from RealWeegieMidget Reviews, who reviewed Phil's film Buster, which gave us two songs featured in the tournament. Check out her review here: 🔗 Buster (1988) Review – RealWeegieMidget Reviews 🎤 Previous March Madness Champions: 2018 – Out of Touch (Hall & Oates) 2019 – Purple Rain (Prince) 2020 – Crazy for You (Madonna) 2021 – I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Whitney Houston) 🗳️ Voting took place on the blog, Twitter (@Returntothe80s), and the Return to the '80s Facebook group. 🔥 Stay tuned next week for our Breakfast Club episode, where the Phil Collins tournament results will be revealed!   🎙️ Del Roehling (Host of 80s at 8 on 91.1 WEDM FM) 🔹 Tune in to 80s at 8 for all your favorite throwback tunes 🔹 Get your daily dose of '80s news on the 80s at 8 Facebook page 💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 💡 Whether you're a die-hard '80s fan, a nostalgia lover, or just someone who enjoys a great book club discussion, this episode is packed with fun, wisdom, and plenty of throwback vibes. 📢 Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and share with fellow GenXers!

The calendar says spring… but let's be honest — sometimes life still feels like winter. If you've been feeling stuck, restless, or like you're waiting for a spark that just won't come, this episode is for you. Join Paul Stroessner as he explores what it really means to "spring forward" when your energy is low, your mind feels cluttered, and your motivation is in hibernation. You'll learn how to recognize the signs that change is already stirring inside you — even if it doesn't feel like it — and discover 5 simple ways to create momentum without overhauling your life. Because blooming doesn't require permission. You don't have to feel ready. You just have to begin. In this episode: 🌱 Why "feeling stuck" might actually be a sign of growth 💡 How to recognize the subtle signals that you're ready for change 📦 5 ways to spark movement, clarity, and joy — without needing to "fix" your whole life 🔥 A motivational close that will remind you of your strength, your power, and your timing Mentioned in this episode: The concept of micro-goals and how they shift identity "You're the average of the 5 people you spend the most time with" — and why your digital input counts Reconnecting with past joys as a path to rediscovering yourself   🎧 Listen & Subscribe ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM 🌎 Connect with Me 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 💡 If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review or share it with a fellow GenXer—let's keep this community growing! 🎤 Until next time—embrace the past, own the present, and build an epic future!

A Special Power Surge Episode In this powerful and heartfelt episode of GenX Journeys, Paul Stroessner honors two remarkable American heroes—Captain John Thomas Martin III and Second Lieutenant Emily Jazmin Tatum Perez—whose legacies deserve to be remembered, not erased. Captain Martin was a brilliant scholar, leader, and trailblazing West Point graduate who also earned a master's from Harvard before serving in Vietnam. Lieutenant Perez was a fearless medical officer, record-breaking West Point cadet, and decorated track athlete who led from the front—literally—on her final mission in Iraq. Paul shares their stories with passion and purpose, tying in his own experiences as a veteran and runner. He also addresses the disturbing trend of erasing diverse military histories under the Trump administration and calls on listeners to rise up and speak their names. 💥 This episode is a tribute. A truth-telling. And a rally cry. Topics Covered: The remarkable legacies of John Martin III and Emily Perez The erasure of diversity-related military content under Trump & Pete Hegseth Paul's personal connection as a veteran and runner The meaning of real leadership and sacrifice A call to action to honor our fallen heroes 🕊️ "True leadership is grounded in courage, service, and purpose. Real patriots don't erase heroes—they remember them."   💡 Connect with GenX Journeys 🌎 Website: GenXJourneys.net 📩 Email: [email protected] 📺 YouTube: @GenXJourneys 📷 Instagram: @GenXJourneys 🐦 Twitter/X: @Returntothe80s 📘 Facebook: GenX Journeys 🎥 TikTok: @GenXJourneys 🎧 Subscribe to the GenX Journeys Podcast on: ✅ Apple Podcasts ✅ Spotify ✅ iHeartRadio ✅ Podbean ✅ PlayerFM