In this special episode, host Bernie Borges welcomes Nicole Gray and Ann Marie Henke, co-hosts of the What's Next Gen X podcast, for a dynamic conversation about embracing "what's next" and reinventing your career during midlife. Bernie, Nicole, and Ann Marie discuss the unique challenges Gen Xers face—from unexpected layoffs to navigating the fear of starting something new after decades in the corporate world.

🗝️ 3 Key Takeaways

1️⃣ You are more than your job title: Years in corporate roles can make us identify too closely with job titles and responsibilities. But as Nicole and Ann Marie emphasize, your skills and passions go far beyond what’s written on a business card.

2️⃣ Give yourself permission (and grace): Making a big change takes both courage and patience. Start small, experiment, and don’t expect perfection. The journey is often messy—for Gen Xers used to “having it all together,” embracing imperfection is part of the process.

3️⃣ Community is your secret weapon: Whether starting a side project or launching a full-blown business, support is essential. Surround yourself with like-minded peers, mastermind groups, or communities (like Club Gen X) to help you iterate, stay motivated, and celebrate wins.

Main takeaway:
Midlife reinvention is not about overnight success or rigid roadmaps—it’s about discovering what truly energizes you, building confidence through action, and leaning into the support of others walking the same path.

Engage Bernie to train your leaders in the:
Fulfillment Centric Leadership™ Framework

Connect with Nicole Gray & Ann Marie Henke
What's Next GenX Website
What's Next GenX Instagram
Nicole Gray LinkedIn
Ann Marie Henke LinkedIn

Connect with Bernie Borges

LinkedIn
Instagram
Website

Email: [email protected]
Fulfilled@Work™ LinkedIn Newsletter

Get in touch with Bernie to:
Explore corporate hiring him as a keynote speaker at your next event.
Explore a tailored presentation or workshop on Fulfillment Centric Leadership™.

Watch the Midlife Fulfilled Podcast on YouTube

Music attribution:
Old Bossa Twin Musicom
Suno

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