What does “retirement” really look like for Gen Xers—and why do so many struggle with it?

In this episode, I sit down with Joy Levin, market research consultant turned retirement coach, who helps Gen X professionals design their encore years with purpose, connection, and freedom.

We dive into:

• Why retirement is no longer a five-year chapter but a 30-year journey—and what that means for planning.
• How our latchkey kid upbringing shaped Gen X resilience, adaptability, and desire for freedom.
• The social side of retirement—why isolation is one of the biggest post-corporate risks and how to avoid it.
• Common mistakes people make when transitioning out of corporate life.
• How to create your own “portfolio life” built on purpose, flexibility, and joy.
• Why couples need to plan their next chapter together—before one person books the world trip and the other says, “But what about the grandkids?”

Whether you’re years away from leaving corporate or already in your next chapter, Joy’s insights will help you think bigger, plan smarter, and make the most of the decades ahead.

Connect with Joy Levin:

• LinkedIn: Joy Levin

• Website: Gen X Exec Encore

Episode Summary:

Think UGC (User Generated Content) is only for 20-somethings? Think again.

In this episode, I’m joined by Megan Collier—UGC creator, coach, and champion for Gen Xers and Boomers who want to turn their creativity into a revenue stream. Megan shares how she went from scrolling TikTok with just 200 followers to replacing her six-figure corporate income in just 14 months.

We break down exactly what UGC is, why brands want creators over traditional actors, and how YOU can get started—no big following required. If you’ve ever wondered whether you could make money creating content from home (without becoming an influencer), this conversation will open your eyes to what’s possible.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• What UGC is (and isn’t) — and why brands are spending big on it

• How Megan replaced her six-figure corporate income with UGC in 14 months

• Why Gen Xers and Boomers are in high demand in this space

• How to build a simple portfolio (even with zero experience)

• Where to find your first UGC clients

• The right way to pitch brands so you stand out

• Pricing tips, contracts, and the AI “likeness” clause you must watch for

Whether you want a creative outlet, extra cash, or a full-time business, UGC could be your next big opportunity.

Connect with Megan:

• TikTok & Instagram: @megan_ugc

• Ultimate UGC Course: Learn More Here

In this special episode, Brett flips the mic and joins John Browning on the Building Your Life Podcast. They dive deep into what it really means to escape corporate life and build something better—on your terms.

Brett shares:

• His journey from 25 years in corporate to solo consulting and fractional work

• Why GenX is waking up to the reality that corporate won’t take care of them

• How he found his first customers (and how you can too)

• The rise of solo businesses—and why GenX is perfectly positioned to thrive

• A powerful mindset shift: It’s not a tightrope 75 feet off the ground… it’s just 16 inches

• The BAM Framework: Belief. Action. Momentum.

• And why chasing time and experiences is the new chasing titles

Whether you’re still in corporate, recently laid off, or already solo, this episode will get you fired up to take action—and find your path to freedom.

Connect with John Browning:

🔗 Website: https://www.guardianrockwealth.com

🎙️ Podcast: Building Your Life Podcast

📧 Email: info@guardianrockwealth.com

Resources Mentioned:

• Take the GBL Happiness Scorecard: Get Busy Living Quiz

• Join Escapee Plus for $20/month: Join Here

• Follow Brett: Linktree