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Midlife Circus

Midlife Circus

Written by: Burning Matches Media
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About this listen

Midlife isn’t the end — it’s the evolution of Gen X. Hosted by Brent Drever and Rob Espenel, Midlife Circus is where real conversations meet reinvention. Like any good circus, midlife is part chaos, part wonder — a stage for learning new acts. From careers and relationships to purpose and adventure, Rob and Brent explore the unpredictable, messy, and meaningful middle of life with humor, honesty, and a touch of rebellion. Pull up a seat under the tent — and get ready to laugh, reflect, and rediscover what’s possible in Your Next Great Act.©2025 Burning Matches, LLC Self-Help Social Sciences Success
Episodes
  • Midlife Meets AI
    Jan 21 2026

    In this episode, Rob and Brent dig into what AI actually looks like in midlife—beyond the hype, fear, and sci-fi doom. They break down how they use AI in three practical ways: as a smarter search tool, as a thought partner for better decisions (including “virtual board of directors”), and as a creative engine for making things—from trip itineraries to short-form video experiments. Along the way, they talk about trust, bias, authenticity, and why AI should augment your life—not replace your voice.

    Links, resources, books mentioned:

    • Visit Episode Website
    • Join the Midlife Circus Community on Substack
    • Follow us: Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube
    • The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck - Mark Manson
    • Can’t Hurt Me - David Goggins
    • Never Finished - David Goggins
    • Ethan Mollick – One Useful Thing (Substack)
    • Reid Hoffman – Possible (podcast)

    (This post includes affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links—at no extra cost to you.)

    Topics we are covering in this episode:

    • How in midlife, we can use AI in practical, everyday ways—without hype or fear
    • AI as a smarter alternative to traditional search and research
    • Using AI as a thought partner to think more clearly and make better decisions
    • Building “virtual board of directors” with AI to evaluate ideas from multiple perspectives
    • Understanding bias, trust, and why AI shouldn’t be treated as gospel
    • Where AI helps—and where it hurts—creative authenticity
    • Real-world examples of AI in action, from writing and planning to travel and content creation
    • How AI can help reframe challenges, reduce friction, and speed up learning
    • Why starting small (recipes, trips, simple questions) is a simple way to begin
    • Embracing AI as a tool that augments the human experience, not replaces it
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    52 mins
  • Someday Is a Lie: Adventures Expire
    Jan 14 2026

    In this episode of Midlife Circus, Brent and Rob unpack why adventures and experiences don’t last forever—and why waiting for the “right time” is often the biggest risk of all. From scratched bucket-list dreams and changing travel styles to family windows that close faster than we expect, they explore how health, relationships, and energy shape what’s still possible—and what’s already expired. This isn’t about drastic change or reckless decisions—it’s about awareness, choice, and action. Because the most expensive decision in midlife isn’t what you do—it’s what you keep postponing.

    Links, resources, books mentioned:

    • Visit Episode Website
    • Join the Midlife Circus Community on Substack
    • Follow us: Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube
    • Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity - Peter Attia

    (This post includes affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links—at no extra cost to you.)

    Topics we are covering in this episode:

    • Adventures can expire due to health, relationships, or interests.
    • Seizing opportunities is crucial as life changes.
    • Family dynamics affect the timing of adventures.
    • Experiences with children have a finite window.
    • Health impacts the ability to pursue adventures as we age.
    • Writing down goals can help prioritize adventures.
    • Sharing your goals with others can lead to support and accountability.
    • It's important to embrace adventures before they expire.
    Show More Show Less
    43 mins
  • Setting Goals for the Year Ahead
    Jan 7 2026

    In this episode, Rob and Brent discuss their intentions and goals for 2026, focusing on themes of health, balance, and personal growth. They reflect on the past year, share their adventures planned for the upcoming year, and emphasize the importance of building a community through the Midlife Circus podcast. The conversation highlights the significance of setting intentions, being flexible with goals, and fostering relationships.

    Links, resources, books mentioned:

    • Visit Episode Website
    • Join the Midlife Circus Community on Substack
    • Follow us: Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube
    • The One Word That’ll Change Your Life - John Gordon, Dan Britton, and Jimmy Page

    (This post includes affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links—at no extra cost to you.)

    Topics we are covering in this episode:

    • Reflecting on the past year helps set intentions for the new year.
    • Choosing a one-word theme can guide personal growth.
    • Health encompasses physical, mental, and relationship aspects.
    • Setting goals should be flexible and adaptable.
    • Quality time with loved ones enhances relationship health.
    • Adventures can be both personal and shared experiences.
    • Building a community can provide support and connection.
    • Intentions for the year can be documented and revisited.
    • Creating a balance between work and personal life is essential.
    Show More Show Less
    55 mins
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