GenX Journeys
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...
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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...
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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 , 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,...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
info_outlineIn this week’s Power Surge, we share the incredible story of Andre “Tre” Howard III, a 10-year-old boy who showed unbelievable bravery in the face of tragedy. After a devastating plane crash, Tre instinctively shielded his younger sister, suffering a severe head injury but ultimately saving her life.
When Tre woke up after surgery, his first concern? Whether he had missed the Super Bowl. That’s the kind of die-hard Eagles fan spirit that caught the attention of A.J. Brown, who promised to visit Tre after the big game—and he kept his word. Brown’s surprise hospital visit, complete with the Eagles’ Vince Lombardi Trophy, turned into an unforgettable moment of kindness and connection.
This is a story of resilience, community, and the impact of small but powerful acts of kindness. Tune in as we honor Tre’s bravery and A.J. Brown’s generosity in this inspiring episode.
Honoring a Veteran: Christopher Sawyer

Each week, we take a moment to remember a veteran from 22 Too Many, honoring those who served and whose stories must never be forgotten.
Christopher Wayne Sawyer
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Born: December 13, 1990 – San Francisco, CA
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Passed: March 5, 2020 – Fort Hood, TX
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Served: U.S. Army, Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic
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Laid to rest in Longview, WA
Christopher was funny, selfless, and deeply devoted to his family. He had a contagious laugh, a heart of gold, and a deep love for God. He enjoyed fishing, hiking, and family BBQs, but most of all, he loved spending time with his daughter, sharing hugs and running together.
His mother, Denise, shared: “Christopher was a lively jokester. He loved to make people laugh and had a heart of gold. His loss shatters my heart – he is missed and loved very much.”
We honor Christopher’s life, service, and the impact he made on those who knew him. Rest in peace. 🇺🇸❤️
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💡 Know an inspiring story I should cover next? Send me a message! And if this episode moved you, share it with someone who needs a little inspiration today. ❤️