What if midlife isn’t about decline—but about rediscovering your strength, voice, and identity in ways you never imagined?
In this episode of Gen X Crisis, Robert reconnects with Shari Ciapka, a old friend he hasn’t spoken to since 1986, who has spent the past several years reinventing herself in remarkable ways. Shari’s journey takes her from a traditional path in accounting and corporate leadership to becoming a competitive fitness athlete, fitness model, Spartan racer, and even a late-blooming singer finding her voice on stage.
Robert and Shari talk about growing up in suburban New Jersey, parental expectations, and the “safe” choices that shaped early careers—before diving into how unexpected pivots, personal challenges, and a job elimination sparked Shari’s rebirth in midlife. They explore the mindset shifts that come with extreme fitness, the discipline of showing up, the courage to compete, and how physical strength fuels mental resilience. Shari also opens up about parenting two sons who’ve carved their own unconventional paths, the lessons of 9/11, her work in diversity and inclusion, and why she now sees herself as a maximizer helping others unlock their potential.
This one’s about rediscovering possibility at any age, shedding self-imposed limits, and embracing reinvention as a lifelong practice.
Visit www.genxcrisis.com to subscribe to Robert’s Substack and get exclusive updates.
And follow Shari Ciapka here: Facebook / Instagram / LinkedIn / 1stPhorm
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