GenX Guys
By: JD & LEN
Language: en
Categories: Society, Culture, Personal, Journals, Sports
Two longtime friends who are ready to discuss their perspective on society, sport and entertainment comparing today from the 80’s. At least what they can remember
Episodes
Episode 79 - Holiday Decorating, Philip Rivers Buzz, and Gaming’s Biggest Night
Dec 13, 2025This week we kick things off with Christmas decorations—whether we’re going bigger, scaling it back, or just trying to find the right energy for the season (and the right amount of effort). We get into what’s changed over the years, what still feels “must-do,” and what’s starting to feel optional.
Then we jump into the NFL and the buzz around 44-year-old Philip Rivers potentially coming out of retirement—plus the industry and fan reaction to the idea. Is it desperation, a smart veteran move, or just headline fuel? We break down what it would mean and...
Duration: 01:00:21Episode 78 - World Cups, Warner Brothers & Championship Chaos
Dec 06, 2025This week we start with the bombshell news of Netflix buying Warner Brothers and what that could mean for the future of movies. We dig into how this kind of consolidation might shrink traditional theatrical releases, shift more big-budget films straight to streaming, and change the way stories get made. From childhood memories of sticky floors and packed Friday-night premieres to today’s luxury recliners and half-empty showtimes, we talk about the value movie theaters brought—socially and culturally—and whether they can still survive in a streaming-dominated world.
From there, we turn to the current college footba...
Duration: 00:59:50Episode 77 - Turkey Day Traditions: Parades, NFL Drama & 80s Mall Vibes
Nov 29, 2025Before Amazon and mobile shopping, the holidays hit differently—mall Santas, packed food courts, and full-on festive energy. This episode jumps from those memories to Thanksgiving parades, NFL traditions, and one big debate: what was going on with the Browns’ coaching decisions at the end of that game?
Duration: 00:59:17Episode 76 - From Fake Fitness Fixes to 80s Christmas & Today’s Inflation Panic
Nov 22, 2025This week we break down the modern fitness hustle — from influencers selling miracle workout plans to the endless noise around “perfect” routines and quick fixes. We talk about what actually works, what’s overhyped, and why everyone online suddenly thinks they’re a certified trainer.
We then jump into how Christmas has changed over the past 40 years, comparing the simple, tradition-driven holidays of the ’80s with today’s tech-heavy, commercialized season. Finally, we revisit the inflation debate: is it truly worse today, or does it just feel that way? We compare prices, wages, and everyday costs across decades to fin...
Duration: 00:59:52Episode 75 - K-Pop Demon Hunters, Global Icons & the Forgotten Generation
Nov 15, 2025We start with the latest in K-Pop—from Grammy surprises to the unstoppable force of Blackpink and BTS—then take a walk through musical history comparing today’s super groups with the icons of our youth. Finally, we dive into why GenX continues to be forgotten despite shaping decades of culture, tech, and music.
Duration: 00:59:49Episode 74 - Media Spin, Party Picks, and the QB Effect
Nov 08, 2025This week, the guys break down the recent election results — from the New York mayor’s race to several governor contests — and question how much the outcomes really tell us when many of these states are long-time party strongholds. They also discuss how both political parties tend to pre-select their candidates, leaving little room for true outsiders. Wrapping things up, they shift gears to college football, exploring why quarterbacks who stay all four years often find greater long-term success in the NFL than early entrants.
Duration: 01:00:04Episode 73 - Dealerships, Travel, and the Vanishing Social Scene
Nov 01, 2025This episode explores the changing meaning of connection — how Gen X grew up with real-world hangouts while today’s youth connect through screens. We talk malls, bowling alleys, the loss of community, and why “third places” have disappeared. Stick around for a fun detour into travel and dealership theories that’ll make you think twice.
Duration: 00:59:59Episode 72 - Betting Lines and Legacy Debates
Oct 25, 2025This week, the GenX Guys dig into the breaking news around NBA betting arrests and what it means for the integrity of sports and fan trust. We look at how gambling continues to reshape professional leagues and where the line should be drawn between entertainment and exploitation. From there, we dive into the age-old debate of the “Greatest of All Time” — how each generation defines greatness differently, and why context matters more than ever. Finally, we hit the midseason mark of the NFL and break down which teams have proven themselves as true contenders — and which ones are fooling everyone
Duration: 01:05:37Episode 71 - Jobs We Loved, Jobs We Left, and the Rise of Digital Ads
Oct 18, 2025Len’s back from his trip to Korea, and the GenX Guys reunite to catch up and reflect. We start with Len’s adventures overseas — from cultural surprises to everyday differences — before diving into the jobs we’ve held over the years, why some stuck and others didn’t, and how our GenX work ethic shaped those experiences. We wrap up by tracing the evolution of digital advertising over the past two decades — from pop-ups and banner ads to AI-driven targeting — and what it says about how far technology (and we) have come.
A mix of nostalgia, humor, and real...
Duration: 00:59:54Episode 70 - From Tron to Shutdowns: System Failure Then and Now
Oct 11, 2025JD flies solo once again as Len sits this one out — but that doesn’t stop the GenX reflection from running full power.
This week, JD dives into the upcoming Tron: Ares movie and takes a trip back to where it all started in 1982 with the original Tron. From the days when computers were a mystery to today’s world run by algorithms and AI, JD breaks down how the film’s message about control, identity, and rebellion feels more relevant than ever.
Then the grid shifts from digital to political — with the ongoing government shutdown s...
Duration: 00:27:13Episode 69 - Same Chaos, New Code: A Gen X Look at America 2025
Oct 05, 2025JD’s flying solo to unpack a week that could’ve been scripted by the 90s — government shutdowns, surveillance tech dreams, and culture wars that refuse to die. He connects the dots from mixtapes to machine learning and reminds us why Gen X might just be the last generation that remembers what freedom felt like before algorithms ran the world.
Duration: 00:29:14Episode 68 - From City Streets to Suburban Retreats: GenX on Travel, Words, and Free Speech
Sep 27, 2025This week the GenX Guys dig into life abroad versus life at home—does the energy of city living beat the calm of the suburbs, or vice versa? We also get real about how social media’s short-form culture is shrinking vocabularies, and weigh in on the recent free speech dust-up sparked by Jimmy Kimmel’s short suspension. It’s travel, language, and free expression through a GenX lens—mixing perspective, debate, and a bit of nostalgia.
Duration: 01:00:37Episode 67 - CTRL+ALT+CAREER: GenX vs AI Hiring + NFL Highlights
Sep 13, 2025This week we get real about job hunting in 2025 — where ageism still lurks and AI is now scanning your resume before a human even sees it. We break down what that means for GenXers trying to stay in the game without selling out. Then we flip from job boards to scoreboards with our NFL rundown, calling out the highs, lows, and “what the hell was that?” moments from this week’s action.
Duration: 01:00:42Episode 66 - Strange Vices, Shifting Times & NFL Kickoff
Sep 07, 2025In this episode, we dive into the odd and dangerous habits people have picked up over the years—from kids huffing compressed air today to the vices of earlier generations, from drugs to alcohol. We talk about how society’s view on these behaviors has changed over time and what it says about culture today. Then, we kick off the NFL season with a breakdown of the first two games and share our early projections for the weeks ahead.
Duration: 01:00:14Episode 65 - Travels, Changing Times & Football Kickoff
Aug 31, 2025In this week’s episode, we kick things off by sharing stories from recent travels before diving into how today’s society is shifting—for better or worse—and what those changes mean in everyday life. Then we turn our attention to the start of both the college football and NFL seasons, breaking down what to watch for as the action gets underway. It’s a mix of personal reflections, cultural commentary, and gridiron talk you won’t want to miss.
Duration: 01:13:53Episode 64 - From LAN Parties to End Zones: PC Gaming & NFL Preseason
Aug 09, 2025We fire up the nostalgia engines and dive into the evolution of PC gaming—from classic shooter titles like quake that shaped the scene to the latest in high-performance shooters like Helldivers 2 and Battlefield 6. Then, we switch fields to break down the recent NFL preseason action, highlight rookies, and share our early impressions for the season ahead.
#PCGaming #Helldivers2 #Quake #NFLPreseason #NFLRookies #Podcast #PopCulturePodcast
Duration: 01:00:03Episode 63 - Heat, Black Holes & HR Nightmares: Gen X Reacts to the Universe
Jul 19, 2025This week, the Gen X Guys dive headfirst into a world on fire—literally and figuratively. From Europe’s deadly heatwaves and flashbacks to sunburned summers in the '80s, to the biggest black hole merger ever detected, we explore how yesterday’s science fiction is today’s breaking news. Plus, we unpack the the social interest of Astronomer CEOs and HR kiss cam. Buckle up for cosmic chaos, climate flashbacks, and some classic Gen X side-eye at the modern meltdown.
Duration: 00:59:44Episode 62 - The Past Decisions we make
Jul 13, 2025From past decisions to future considerations, we dive into decisions we made and how it shapes who we are over time. From politics to careers we dig into how we got where we are today.
#generationx #pastdecisions
Duration: 00:59:58Episode 61 - Economic Shakeup & NBA Shakeout
Jun 28, 2025This episode tackles the latest on layoffs and employment challenges, exploring what it means for workers and the economy. Plus, we pivot to the NBA to recap an exciting Finals, discuss key draft moves, and predict the favorites for next year's championship. Don’t miss this blend of economic insights and basketball buzz!
#JobMarket #Layoffs #NBAFinals #NBADraft #NBAChampionship #SportsTalk #CareerAdvice
Duration: 00:59:32Episode 60 - Blinkers Optional, World on Fire
Jun 21, 2025This week, The GenX Guys swerve through the chaos, starting with a rant on bad driving habits and the rise of distracted drivers (yes, we're looking at you, TikTok scrollers at red lights). Then we shift gears into global headlines, including the latest on Israel and Iran. Finally, we hit the fast lane with some sports talk: superstars, legacy debates, and the never-ending drama surrounding the Lakers.
Duration: 01:00:06Episode 59 - Border to Border: Racing the West Coast and Reflecting on the World
Jun 14, 2025In this episode, we map out a fast-paced drive from the Mexico border to the Canadian border along the West Coast, aiming to beat the 20-hour mark. As we push the limits of the journey, we also take time to reflect on the state of the world, discussing major conflicts and global tensions unfolding around us. It’s a blend of speed, strategy, and perspective, both on the road and in today’s headlines.
Duration: 01:00:03Episode 58 - Dead Serious About Movies
Jun 07, 2025This week, we explore death and memorials in the modern world, how movies handle finality, and what happens when a show goes too far—yes, we're talking about "jumping the shark."
Duration: 00:59:46Episode 57 - Power Plays: Trump’s Tariffs, Russia’s Strikes, AI’s Rise & NBA Heat
May 31, 2025Trump tariffs, Russian airstrikes, AI breakthroughs, and NBA playoff heat. A full hour of this week’s biggest headlines—explained
#Trump #Russia #AI #NBAPlayoffs #UkraineWar #TechNews #PoliticsPodcast #NewsRecap #CurrentEvents
Duration: 00:59:57Episode 56 - From Dreams to the Fast Lane
May 25, 2025In this episode, we start in the realm of REM—exploring the science of sleep and the meaning behind our dreams. Then we shift gears and cruise into the world of cars—touching on Indy 500, the experiences we had with cars and how it molded our car management today.
Duration: 01:00:00Episode 55 - Challenges getting a job
May 18, 2025We discuss how challenging it is to find not only a job, but to get hiring managers and companies to connect with you. NBA playoffs are starting to get near the end, who will make the Finals of the remaining teams.
Duration: 00:59:48Episode 54 - Around the US we go
May 10, 2025Its all about sports and the American pope this week. What impact will the Derek Carr retirement have on the Saints and Aaron Rodgers. Plus the NBA playoffs, still exciting or not. Also the first American Pope!
Duration: 01:00:00Episode 53 - Challenging the norms
May 03, 2025JD and Len debate the theory that aliens may have created/seeded life on earth. Were we a random act in the universe or part of some larger plan. They also find time to discuss the upcoming Conclave to anoint a new Pope and what that means.
Duration: 00:59:49Episode 52 - Its all news and easter
Apr 19, 2025How does having multiple media sources impact our beliefs in what is true and not? We discuss that in depth this week and swing into some Easter topics.
Duration: 00:59:47Episode 51 - Death and Tariffs
Apr 13, 2025In another roller coaster episode the guys go into best way to die and jump into Tariffs and the whole political environment and reaction this week.
Duration: 00:57:23Episode 50 - We made it to 50 episodes!!
Apr 05, 2025Its our 50th episode! This week we go into amusement parks, movies and more. Thanks to all those who have stuck with us this long.
Duration: 01:00:33Episode 49 - American Politics and Traveling
Mar 30, 2025This week the guys touch on job market challenges, traveling and how the current state of US politics in todays world.
Duration: 01:01:01Episode 48 - Job hunting is tough
Mar 22, 2025This week JD gives an update on the difficulties of the job search, and the guys give their thoughts on why that is. They also discuss March Madness and NFL in the 2nd half.
Duration: 01:01:39Episode 47 - Remembering 1985
Mar 16, 2025More about nostalgia is this episode. The guys discuss Robotech and the shows they watched in 85 while also get into differences between then and now.
Duration: 00:59:57Episode 46 - Job Market, DOGE and Trumps Decisions
Mar 08, 2025We discuss the current job market and unemployment impact. Rest of the show we talk about DOGE and how Trumps actions or flip flopping are impacting Americans.
Duration: 00:59:06Episode 45 - Philippines Trip, NFL News & RunDisney
Mar 02, 2025The guys are finally back after a month and discuss the recent Philippines visit as well as go over RunDisney and NFL news this week.
Duration: 00:59:53Episode 44 - NFL Playoffs and coaching changes
Jan 26, 2025We review the AFC & NFC title game matchups with our selections, also go into the recent NFL coaching changes and wonder if others should move on.
Duration: 00:59:48Episode 43 - Leadership, the Presidency and Ceasefires
Jan 18, 2025We discuss how to be a leader and skills to have. Plus discuss the current and incoming Presidents as leaders. Also a ceasefire is on the table with Israel and Hamas, but will it go through. This and more!!
Duration: 01:01:40Episode 42 - LA Fires, Biden and Trump
Jan 11, 2025Its a new year and so many changes going on. We discuss the horrific fires happening in LA and CA future responses. Also how Biden is using his powers in the final 20 days and preparing for Trump.
Duration: 01:00:55Episode 41 - What's with America
Dec 14, 2024The CEO killer and how ridiculous some Americans are about it and the health industry as a whole. Plus Trumps government and what the first 100 days might look like.
Duration: 00:58:22Episode 40 - CFB and NFL playoff outlook
Dec 10, 2024College football playoff seedings are done and the guys give their outlook on who could win it all. Plus the NFL is coming to an end, which teams could make the playoffs and what is the ideal Super Bowl matchups
Duration: 00:58:02Episode 39 - Thanksgiving and job hunting challenges
Dec 01, 2024Its the Thanksgiving weekend show where the guys discuss food and then dive into the world of job hunting and job struggles.
Duration: 00:59:06Episode 38 - NFL All the time
Nov 23, 2024This weeks discussion in all about the NFL, from the JETS crazy firings to the Cowboys no chance to win.
Duration: 00:59:05Episode 37 - Tyson/Paul fight and some Politics
Nov 18, 2024The Guys give their thoughts on the Tyson/Paul "fight", if you can call it that. They also jump into the political world and discuss the recent elections, their thoughts and potential impact.
Duration: 01:00:37Episode 36 - Working today and this weeks sports
Nov 02, 2024The guys discuss the working world and dive into the MLB and NBA.
Duration: 01:01:38Episode 35 - NBA Season and viewership
Oct 26, 2024The guys discuss the new NBA season and dive into how each major league has changed to drive growth in viewership, both good and bad.
Duration: 01:01:11Episode 34 - Visiting Japan and the NFL
Oct 12, 2024Len gives a rundown of his recent trip to Japan and what he has noticed. The guys then hop into the NFL specifically Lens favorite team the Browns.
Duration: 01:00:08Episode 33 - NFL Week 3 & Beyond
Sep 28, 2024We discuss the recent NFL landscape and where teams are struggling as well as jump into the rookie QB debate.
Duration: 01:01:14Episode 32 - Remembering Wrestling and Movie Theaters
Sep 21, 2024We discuss how todays wrestling shows and wrestlers compare to the 80's & 90's. Also diving into recent news about movie theaters and why people may not go today.
Duration: 01:01:25Episode 31 - NFL, Music and Vices.
Sep 07, 2024This week we discuss recent Linken Park news with a new singer and how other bands dealt with change. Also we dive into the some NFL games and somehow start with discussions on heavy cigarette usage growing up and what vices exist today.
Duration: 01:04:51Episode 30 - NFL Season, Men and Women Sports
Aug 31, 2024Now on their 30th episode the guys go into more sports this week discussing how people compare men vs women sports and of course the NFL season.
Duration: 01:01:14Episode 29 - Life changes and must see movies
Aug 24, 2024The guys discuss about life changes when kids get older as well as dive into Wolverine Deadpool movie while listing out the movies they always watch.
Duration: 01:00:41Episode 28 - Passion about the job, Disney D23 and Marvel
Aug 17, 2024This episode the guys talk about work options from a young age to today and how life directs your decisions. Also they pivot into the Disney D23 event as well as go over some additional Marvel news.
Duration: 01:01:10Episode 27 - Lets talk sports and movies
Aug 03, 2024The Guys discuss the NFL and Olympics this week and dive into Marvel and Disney along the way. Of course as part of GenX they reminisce about the 80's theme music for movies and TV's.
Duration: 01:00:48Episode 26 - Stars passing, politics & guns, and the Olympics
Jul 20, 2024This week the guys start off strong remembering those stars who have passed before somehow diving into politics and guns. Eventually rounding out back on the Olympics and men's US basketball. Its an up and down episode this week.
Duration: 01:00:03Episode 25 - Olympics, Ancestry, Games and work
Jul 13, 2024The guys discuss a bit to much about the working world this episode but go into gaming, ancestry apps and sports this week
Duration: 01:00:25Episode 24 - USA Soocer, International Competitions and Lakers
Jul 07, 2024We dive into the current Futbol tournaments going on, what's next for US Mens soccer, the Olympics and of course the Lakers.
Duration: 01:00:18Episode 23 - Trips and Politics
Jun 22, 2024Back from a recent trip Len shares about his Japan/Korea trip and somehow they dive into politics and eventually Lakers coach hiring.
Duration: 01:00:33Episode 22 - NBA Playoffs and the Draft
May 25, 2024We discuss the current NBA playoffs, who will get to the Finals and also the upcoming draft.
Duration: 00:58:44Episode 21 - NBA & NFL
May 18, 2024This weeks discussion is around the NFL schedules, NBA players vs NFL players and Lens upcoming travels.
Duration: 00:57:36Episode 20 - Remembering the past
May 11, 2024This week the guys discuss traveling and some of the devices and items from the 80s. A bit more talk around memory lane this week.
Duration: 00:59:11Episode 19 - NFL Draft and more
Apr 27, 2024The NFL Draft is here and the guys jump into the selections made, from Caleb Williams to the Falcons picking Penix and beyond. JD & Len provide their views on possible successes for some of the QB and their own views from years of seeing these play out.
Duration: 00:58:04Episode 18 - The past, present and future review
Apr 06, 2024The guys dig into wrestling on the eve of WrestleMania and then get into more about how things are different in society's growth today versus the past. Lots a different conversations this week.
Duration: 00:59:53Ep 17 - NCAA Madness, Free Agency and MLB
Mar 30, 2024Its NCAA March Madness, who did the guys pick? Also they dig into MLB season, memories from the past and NFL free agency.
Duration: 00:58:45Episode 16 -We're back, the NFL and more
Mar 24, 2024Back from their break the Guys jump into NFL talk, which sports have changed the most over the decades and what is the greatest.
Duration: 00:58:23Episode 15 - Super Bowl Predictions and Purdy
Feb 11, 2024Its time to pick the Super Bowl winners and go over the recent Purdy hate. Plus once again they dive into the NBA.
Duration: 00:56:35Episode 14 - Reviewing the NFC/AFC title games and whats next for Belichick and Carrol
Feb 03, 2024This week focuses on the recent title games and the guys provide their thoughts on the outcomes and what to look for in SB 58. Also is this the end for Belichick and Carrol?
Duration: 00:57:16Episode 13 - Reviewing the NFL title games and matchups
Jan 28, 2024This week they discuss the AFC & NFC title games and how the matchups could play out. Plus give their take already on who would get to the SuperBowl and Win.
Duration: 00:56:52Episode 12 - NFL WildCard Review and Divisional Matchups
Jan 20, 2024The guys review last weeks games and surprise upsets while giving their picks for the divisional round.
Duration: 01:01:13Episode 11 - NFL Playoffs & Coaching news
Jan 13, 2024Its the NFL playoffs and the Guys discuss the matchups and who they think will win. Plus lots of coaching changes this week, they touch on those and where some may end up.
Duration: 00:59:53Episode 10 - New Year is here..so what
Jan 07, 2024The guys talk about what to look forward in the New Year from elections to sports!
Duration: 00:59:30Episode 9 - Christmas Time is here
Dec 23, 2023Christmas is right around the corner and the guys reminisce about their youth and what celebrating Christmas is like today versus the past. Happy holidays to all and enjoy the episode!
Duration: 00:59:42Episode 8 - The California Experience
Dec 16, 2023The guys talk about California today vs the past. As residents for over 45 years they have a unique perspective, or not.
Duration: 00:59:57Episode 7 - Getting old sucks
Dec 09, 2023The guys discuss life changes from their youth to now and dig into the whole WFH debate.
Duration: 01:00:03Episode 6 - NFL results from Week 13
Dec 06, 2023The guys are back and review the recent Week 13 games. They discuss who the best teams are currently and their thoughts on this upcoming week.
Duration: 00:57:59Episode 5 - Travel
Nov 20, 2023The guys discuss the changes over time from youth to today on vacations and traveling.
Duration: 01:00:49Episode 4 - The 80’s and today
Nov 11, 2023We discuss memories from the 80s and how things are different from then and now.
Duration: 00:59:44Episode 3 - Disney and a galaxy far far away
Nov 05, 2023The Guys discuss the changes to Disney they have seen over the decades and the impact Disney has had on IP's like Star Wars and Marvel
Duration: 01:01:22Episode 2 - NBA Kicks Off, World Series and more
Oct 28, 2023Len & JD get into the NBA season, if anyone watches the World Series and dive into sports differences and rigging.
Duration: 01:00:51GenXGuys -Intro to the new show
Oct 21, 2023Two longtime friends JD & Len decide to finally do a podcast! This week they introduce themselves and dive into a few different sport subjects with the upcoming NBA season and NFL.
Duration: 00:45:08