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Gen X Resistance — Episode: Struggling Young: Different Times, Same Fight

By Paul Stevens
In this episode of Gen X Resistance, Paul Stevens takes us back to 1996 with a surprising find—an old grocery receipt. What used to cost $19 would barely cover two items today. But as Paul points out, being young has always been a struggle, whether it was 1996 or 2025.
While it’s tempting to think today’s youth have it easier, the reality is they face challenges of their own: student loans, high housing costs, and an unpredictable economy. Gen X knows those struggles firsthand—and as the bridge generation, we’re in a unique position to help.
Paul shares five ways Gen X can guide the next generation through the pain of just starting out:

1. Teach Financial Reality Without Doom and Gloom
   Show young people how to budget, plan, and manage money in today’s economy—not with lectures, but with real tools.
2. Share Career Advice and Real-World Skills
   From interviewing confidently to reading workplace culture, Gen X has hard-earned lessons that still matter.
3. Mentor Instead of Judge
   Break the cycle of criticism and offer guidance, whether it’s fixing a car, understanding a mortgage, or just answering questions without making someone feel dumb.
4. Model Balance in a Burnout Culture
   Work hard, yes—but also show that life beyond the job matters. That’s not weakness, that’s wisdom.
5. Remind Them Struggle Is Normal, Not Failure
   Being young means learning. Struggle isn’t a sign of failure—it’s the foundation for growth.

Closing Thoughts:
Prices may change, but the fight to find your footing when you’re young is timeless. Gen X doesn’t need to sit back and criticize—we can use our spot in the middle to guide, encourage, and equip the next generation.
Listen on your favorite podcast app or on YouTube. Got thoughts, stories, or maybe your own old receipts? Email Paul at [email protected]
or drop a comment.
Stay strong. Stay sharp. And most importantly—stay RAD, my friends.
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLr2SNpWvi4dsbNOPbtyHTKr1U3FB9wepa