In this opening episode, we begin the “Journal of an Ordinary Man” and set the foundation for a deeply personal journey through mid-life transition, faith, family, loss, and rediscovering purpose.
At 54, the narrator finds himself in a season of massive change—stepping away from a career that once defined him, supporting his wife through the loss of her mother, preparing for life as an empty-nester, and navigating family shifts that make the holidays feel different than ever before.
Raised moving from place to place—military bases, small towns, mountain communities—he grew up learning how to adapt. But this transition is different. This time, the change isn’t happening to him; it’s happening within him.
In Episode 1, he explains why he’s beginning this journal: to slow down, to process anxiety, to let go of control, to understand the man he’s becoming, and to build a deeper relationship with faith after years of drifting in and out. Through honesty and simple reflection, he sets the tone for the daily entries that will follow.
In this episode, you’ll hear about:Starting a personal journal during a mid-life transition
Why a man steps away from career and into reflection
Grief, marriage, empty nest changes, and shifting family roles
Growing up moving constantly and the lasting emotional impact
Anxiety, uncertainty, and learning to release control
Rekindling faith and grounding life around what matters
A foundational Bible verse for this season: Revelation 21:5
midlife change, men’s mental health, grief, family transitions, faith rediscovery, slowing down, or redefining identity after years of work and responsibility.
This episode sets the stage for everything to come—an honest, unpolished journal from a man who is learning, day by day, how to live the second half of life with more intention, faith, and meaning.
Dateline NBC
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Are You A Charlotte?
In 1997, actress Kristin Davis’ life was forever changed when she took on the role of Charlotte York in Sex and the City. As we watched Carrie, Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte navigate relationships in NYC, the show helped push once unacceptable conversation topics out of the shadows and altered the narrative around women and sex. We all saw ourselves in them as they searched for fulfillment in life, sex and friendships. Now, Kristin Davis wants to connect with you, the fans, and share untold stories and all the behind the scenes. Together, with Kristin and special guests, what will begin with Sex and the City will evolve into talks about themes that are still so relevant today. "Are you a Charlotte?" is much more than just rewatching this beloved show, it brings the past and the present together as we talk with heart, humor and of course some optimism.
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.