Welcome to the X.

Most of the time, I’m sharing episodes with you from my Chapter X podcast. But recently, I’ve had the chance to be on the other side of the mic, and I thought you might enjoy a few of those conversations. If you're curious, here is…

I can't tell you how many times I've heard someone say they're not creative. I try my best not to make a face that gives away how I feel about that statement. But everyone has a creative side. It’s innate. The problem is, for many…

In the process of creating your life after your career, you have an unprecedented opportunity to decide what’s included and what’s not. You get to make choices that align with your values and let go of what doesn’t. For example, the “shoulds” can be tossed…

Have you seen the social media trend where people are challenging each other with the Ice Bucket Challenge again?  It’s all to raise money for ALS research, a very worthy cause. But let’s be honest: getting a bucket of ice water dumped on your head…

My vegetable garden is growing pretty well this summer. I’ve planted some sweet corn for my granddaughter, who is a raging corn fanatic. It’s interesting to watch the stalks grow and the tiny ears emerge. Meanwhile, as I scan around the garden, I see some…

For many, change represents chaos, upheaval, and uncertainty. It’s hard because it takes a real, concerted effort to do something different—something unfamiliar and uncomfortable. It takes work and commitment. If you look back on your past, I’m sure you can recount a multitude of changes…

Since I left my career behind, I’ve devoted a fair amount of energy to self-examination. I’ve noticed that I’ve been carrying some baggage I’d like to shed.  For example, while I clearly remember how critical my parents were, I think I’ve far surpassed them in…

I’m sure you’ve seen them. You know, the cluster of old men sitting around at a coffee shop or bar, bitching about their lives, the world, and pretty much EVERYTHING else. The chorus of dissatisfaction, complaints, and misery that everyone in the circle can chime…