Pulled From Both Directions: Life in the Sandwich Generation

Reminiscing - The Stories That Made Us

Sometimes the best way to understand where you're going is to look back at where you've been. In this episode of Too Stubborn to Quit, Pam and Linda take a walk down memory lane, revisiting the moments, misadventures, and turning points that helped shape the women they are today. From the stories that still make them laugh to the lessons that only make sense years later, this episode is all about perspective. Life doesn’t always unfold the way we planned, but the journey leaves us with stories worth telling. And sometimes those stories remind us that every setback, wrong turn, and unexpected detour helped build the resilience we carry today. So grab a cup of coffee and join the conversation as Pam and Linda reminisce about the past, celebrate the present, and keep moving forward… because quitting was never really an option.

Death by a Thousand Papercuts

Death by a Thousand Papercuts Sometimes life doesn’t fall apart in one dramatic moment. More often it’s the small things — the constant pressures, expectations, disappointments, and responsibilities — that slowly wear us down. Death by a thousand papercuts. In this episode of Too Stubborn to Quit, Pam talks with Dr. Richard Kane — composer, elementary music teacher, musician, band director, church choir director, Tournament of Bands judge, father, and playwright — about what it means to keep going when the hits just keep coming. Turning 40 often brings a moment of reflection about purpose, burnout, and the next phase of life. Many people find themselves surrounded by coworkers, students, or colleagues, yet feeling strangely alone because the excitement they once had for their work has faded. Richard shares his perspective on creativity, teaching, and perseverance — and how sometimes the only choice you have is to do it anyway, even when you’re tired, discouraged, or questioning what comes next. The conversation also touches on the importance of self-determination theory: autonomy, connection with like-minded people, and the feeling of competence that allows us to grow and rediscover meaning in what we do. And perhaps the most important reminder of all: You matter. And you don’t need to apologize for taking up space in this world.

Iceland, Laughter & Life Lessons: When the Trip Doesn’t Go As Planned

This week on Too Stubborn to Quit, Linda and her daughter Steph take us along on their unforgettable trip to Iceland — a long-awaited adventure after years of hard work and responsibility. But like many real-life vacations, not everything went according to plan. From breathtaking views and once-in-a-lifetime moments to the kind of unexpected challenges that can derail a trip, this episode is about more than travel. It’s about learning to have fun after working so hard… and choosing joy even when things don’t go your way. Because sometimes the best memories come from the moments you didn’t plan. If you’ve ever saved, sacrificed, or simply waited your turn for adventure, this episode is your reminder: You’ve earned the fun. And how you handle the bumps along the way makes all the difference. 🎙️ Subscribe, share, and follow Too Stubborn to Quit for real conversations about life, second acts, and making every chapter count.

Faith Beyond Borders: What 30 Years Overseas Teaches About Life

This week we talk with James Thompson, a missionary who has spent nearly 30 years living and serving in the Philippines. James shares what life has taught him about gratitude, purpose, and why life is never a punishment. With deep honesty, he discusses how to remain the light when others may not understand what you stand for and how faith and perspective can shape the way we move through the world. He also offers a thoughtful look at how Americans are viewed in other countries and what those experiences have taught him over the years. This is a conversation about living with intention, choosing gratitude, and finding meaning wherever life takes you.

Pulled From Both Directions: Life in the Sandwich Generation

In this episode of Too Stubborn to Quit, Pam and Linda talk about the sandwich generation — the season of life where responsibility comes from both directions at once. Still showing up for kids, while also taking on care, concern, and decision-making for aging parents. This isn’t about age. It’s about pressure. It’s about invisible work, constant guilt, and being the one everyone depends on. We talk honestly about exhaustion, boundaries, resilience, and what it takes to keep going when quitting isn’t an option. If you’ve ever felt stretched thin, quietly overwhelmed, or unseen in this season, you’re not alone — and you’re in the right place.