Gen X Mindscape

#20 The Quest for Meaning: Dr. Joel Vos on Navigating Midlife

I am very excited to share with you my conversation with Dr. Joel Vos.  In this first episode of a two-part series, we dive into the rich tapestry of life's meanings, uncovering how various cultures and individuals construct purpose throughout history. Joel Vos, a seasoned researcher and thinker in the field of psychology, shares his extensive knowledge and personal insights, bringing a fresh perspective to the quest for a meaningful existence. Our conversation begins with an exploration of the fascinating historical evolution of meaning in life, examining the diverse paths people have taken to forge a sense of purpose. Joel offers enlightening viewpoints on the methods of meaning-making that contribute to greater psychological well-being and satisfaction, emphasizing the importance of understanding the wide array of approaches available to us. Focusing on the pivotal phase of midlife, Joel illuminates the existential challenges that often emerge, guiding us through these experiences with a compassionate and scientifically informed lens. Whether you're navigating midlife yourself or simply interested in deepening your understanding of life's purposes, Joel's insights offer a thought-provoking roadmap to authenticity and a renewed sense of purpose. Visit Joel's Website: https://joelvos.com/ Books By Joel Vos [https://amzn.to/4cE2z4k] (Amazon Affiliate Link) Man's Search For Meaning [https://amzn.to/3U1Tc7r]By Viktor Frankl (Amazon Affiliate Link) Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2196537/support] Join us at: https://genxmindscape.com/ [https://genxmindscape.com/] Subscribe in your podcast player or share our podcast here: https://genxmindscape.buzzsprout.com/share [https://genxmindscape.buzzsprout.com/share] I would love to hear from you! Join the Gen X Mindscape Community Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/824970545616407/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/824970545616407/] Leave me a voice message! https://genxmindscape.com/leave-a-voice-message [https://genxmindscape.com/leave-a-voice-message]

#19 Midlife, Resilience, and Running Your Own Race with Dr. Frank J. Infurna

In this episode of our podcast, we sit down with Frank J Infurna, an innovative researcher dedicated to exploring the midlife phase of adult development. This episode uncovers the dual nature of midlife, highlighting not only the challenges faced by individuals in this age group but also the opportunities that arise. We also discuss resilience factors, such as social support and purpose in life, which play critical roles in navigating the complexities of midlife transitions.Join us as we explore the multifaceted experiences of midlife, shedding light on the challenges, opportunities, and the profound impact of support and purpose on our well-being during this pivotal stage of life. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2196537/support] Join us at: https://genxmindscape.com/ [https://genxmindscape.com/] Subscribe in your podcast player or share our podcast here: https://genxmindscape.buzzsprout.com/share [https://genxmindscape.buzzsprout.com/share] I would love to hear from you! Join the Gen X Mindscape Community Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/824970545616407/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/824970545616407/] Leave me a voice message! https://genxmindscape.com/leave-a-voice-message [https://genxmindscape.com/leave-a-voice-message]

#18 Harmonizing Social Expectations with Aging: Insights from Dr. Shinobu Kitayama's Culture and Cognition Lab

In this episode, I am thrilled to welcome Dr. Shinobu Kitayama, a distinguished psychology professor at the University of Michigan. Dr. Kitayama leads the Culture & Cognition Lab, where his groundbreaking research has uncovered valuable insights into the mind, culture, and well-being. We discuss how Western cultural norms often emphasize an active, positive self, setting unique expectations for aging. While these norms can be beneficial, they also risk creating a mismatch with the realities of aging. In our discussion, Dr. Kitayama enlightens us on these cultural impacts and introduces successful aging practices from various cultures. These insights pave the way for a richer, healthier perspective on aging, where wisdom and experience are in harmony with our evolving selves. Tune in to discover how integrating global aging philosophies can transform and enhance our journey through our midlife years and beyond. Resources and Links; Dr. Kityama's Culture and Cognition Lab [https://kitayama.psych.lsa.umich.edu/wp/] Culture and Wellbeing in Late Adulthood: Theory and Evidence [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7474435/] Varieties of interdependence and the emergence of the Modern West: Toward the globalizing of psychology [https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2023-32731-005] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2196537/support] Join us at: https://genxmindscape.com/ [https://genxmindscape.com/] Subscribe in your podcast player or share our podcast here: https://genxmindscape.buzzsprout.com/share [https://genxmindscape.buzzsprout.com/share] I would love to hear from you! Join the Gen X Mindscape Community Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/824970545616407/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/824970545616407/] Leave me a voice message! https://genxmindscape.com/leave-a-voice-message [https://genxmindscape.com/leave-a-voice-message]

#17 Growing Up Together: Personal Growth and Parenting in Midlife with Keri Cooper

In this episode, I am honored to have Keri Cooper on the show. Keri is a licensed clinical social worker with a passion for holistic psychotherapy for children and adolescents. During our discussion Keri shares her insights on the unique challenges faced by midlife parents of adolescents and emerging adults, and how a holistic approach can be beneficial in meeting these challenges. We also discuss the importance of helping children develop coping skills and emotional well-being and how parents can navigate situations where their children might resist holistic approaches. Keri also discusses the balance between personal growth and parenting responsibilities during midlife. Next, we discuss the role of nutrition in the emotional health of ourselves and our family members. Keri provides practical advice on simple nutritional changes that can positively impact the emotional well-being of our adolescent emerging adult children. We also explore the importance of communication and connection between parents and their adolescent and emerging adult children, with Keri offering strategies to maintain strong relationships during this transitional phase. It is a great conversation for us midlfers seeking to support our children’s emotional health and foster a strong parent-child connection during the challenging phase of adolescence and emerging adulthood. Resources from this episode: Keri's Website: kericooperholistictherapy.com [https://kericooperholistictherapy.com/] Mental Health Uncensored, Book By Keri Cooper [https://www.amazon.com/Mental-Health-Uncensored-Foundations-Parent/dp/B09ZLT6Y6Z/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3QANUV9IZGT2C&keywords=keri+cooper+mental+health+uncensored&qid=1698709155&sprefix=keri+cooper+mental+health+uncensured%2Caps%2C108&sr=8-1] Mental Health Uncensored Teen Workbook By Keri Cooper [https://www.amazon.com/Mental-Health-Uncensored-Teen-Workbook/dp/B0C9S7PH5Y/?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=vWZdb&content-id=amzn1.sym.579192ca-1482-4409-abe7-9e14f17ac827&pf_rd_p=579192ca-1482-4409-abe7-9e14f17ac827&pf_rd_r=140-8549758-0569264&pd_rd_wg=QNqb3&pd_rd_r=2179ba65-dae8-49db-96a6-42b7a1665ae1&ref_=aufs_ap_sc_dsk&_encoding=UTF8&tag=understand0cd-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=31f23c5b876a22ceafbe7b473459d664&camp=1789&creative=9325] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2196537/support] Join us at: https://genxmindscape.com/ [https://genxmindscape.com/] Subscribe in your podcast player or share our podcast here: https://genxmindscape.buzzsprout.com/share [https://genxmindscape.buzzsprout.com/share] I would love to hear from you! Join the Gen X Mindscape Community Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/824970545616407/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/824970545616407/] Leave me a voice message! https://genxmindscape.com/leave-a-voice-message [https://genxmindscape.com/leave-a-voice-message]

#16 Embracing Midlife: The Power of Subjective Aging with Dr. Allyson Brothers

In this episode, I discuss the fascinating topic of subjective aging with Dr. Allyson Brothers, a leading expert from Colorado State University. In this episode, we unpack the concept of subjective aging and its profound impact on midlife well-being. Discover why our perceptions of aging matter, how they shape our health outcomes and the societal implications of fostering a positive view of aging.  Dr. Brothers offers practical insights and actionable steps to cultivate a positive aging experience. Resources Recommended Book: Breaking the Age Code How Your Beliefs About Aging Determine How Long and Well You Live [https://www.amazon.com/Breaking-Age-Code-Beliefs-Determine/dp/0063053195/ref=sr_1_1?crid=328HOUS5I0OJ1&keywords=becca+leavy+breaking+the+age+code&qid=1696445033&sprefix=becca+leavy+breaking+the+age+code%252Caps%252C106&sr=8-1&_encoding=UTF8&tag=understand0cd-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=05dff5508615d1532d40c80ad72e8bc2&camp=1789&creative=9325] Changing the Narrative: https://changingthenarrativeco.org/ [https://changingthenarrativeco.org/] Colorado State Healthy Aging Center https://www.research.colostate.edu/healthyagingcenter/ [https://www.research.colostate.edu/healthyagingcenter/] Ryff Scales for Psychological Well-Being [https://centerofinquiry.org/uncategorized/ryff-scales-of-psychological-well-being/] Longitudinal effects of subjective aging on health and longevity: An updated metanalysis (2023) [https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2023-57851-001] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2196537/support] Join us at: https://genxmindscape.com/ [https://genxmindscape.com/] Subscribe in your podcast player or share our podcast here: https://genxmindscape.buzzsprout.com/share [https://genxmindscape.buzzsprout.com/share] I would love to hear from you! Join the Gen X Mindscape Community Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/824970545616407/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/824970545616407/] Leave me a voice message! https://genxmindscape.com/leave-a-voice-message [https://genxmindscape.com/leave-a-voice-message]