The GenXperience with Aisha

The GenXperience with Aisha is an engaging and interactive conversation hosted by Aisha Sheikh, featuring a diverse group of friends and colleagues aged 40-55. In this series, they tackle the unique challenges faced by this age group with a blend of humor, vulnerability, and personal stories. Through candid discussions and insightful takeaways, The GenXperience offers a refreshing opportunity to pause amidst our busy lives and share a collective moment of connection. This series is a reminder that, as Gen-Xers, we are not alone in navigating the complexities of life in the 21st century. Together, we can explore, laugh, and reflect on the journey of being a Gen-Xer today.

Episodes

Join Aisha and her guests as they dive into the world of modern dating, from excessive photo filters to the all-too-familiar phenomenon of ghosting, and everything in between. With humor and candid insights, they tackle the quirky, frustrating, and sometimes downright baffling challenges of dating in the digital age. Whether it’s decoding the perfect profile picture or navigating the emotional rollercoaster of disappearing acts, this conversation is both lighthearted and meaningful, offering a mix of laughter and reflection on what it really means to connect in today’s dating landscape.

Gen Xers face some of the highest turnover rates in career and job security, and Aisha, along with her guests, delve into the complexities behind this challenge. They explore the evolving definition of career versus job, and what retirement looks like for a generation caught between traditional expectations and the pursuit of personal dreams. With mounting responsibilities—whether family, financial, or otherwise—many Gen Xers find that holding down a 9-5 job or pursuing a passion isn’t always a straightforward choice. The often-touted "follow your dream" mantra can feel like a luxury rather than a reality, as this group navigates the difficult balance of fulfilling obligations while striving for personal fulfillment.

With humor and vulnerability, Aisha and her guests open up about the complex challenges of caring for aging parents, shedding light on the emotional and cultural pressures that come with this responsibility. They discuss the often-unspoken burden of being a family caregiver—caught between the deep desire to do right by their parents and the guilt that can come from trying to maintain their own lives. As they navigate the balancing act of love, duty, and self-care, the conversation humanizes the plight of caregivers, offering a raw and relatable look at the sacrifices, the struggles, and the unexpected rewards that come with this deeply personal journey.

Join the conversation as Gen Z faces off with their Gen X moms in a witty, fresh, and sometimes hilarious exchange. As kids challenge their moms on everything from sleepover rules and curfews to more modern-day dilemmas, what starts as playful banter soon becomes an insightful and vulnerable report card for the moms. With humor and a healthy dose of honesty, both generations navigate the complexities of parenting and growing up—revealing just how much (or how little) they really understand each other. It’s a lively, heartwarming discussion.

Aisha and her guests explore the immigrant dream that their parents held when they first moved to Canada, reflecting on how that dream evolved as the next generation—born in Canada—navigates their own path. Growing up with one foot in their cultural heritage and the other in Canadian society, these individuals often walk a delicate balance between honoring their parents' expectations and forging their own identities. This conversation delves into the complexities of living between two worlds.

In this conversation, Gen Z challenges the stereotypes often associated with their generation. The discussion explores the unique challenges they faced during the pandemic, as well as the impact of growing up in the age of social media. Featuring articulate and thoughtful role models, this dialogue offers a compelling perspective on the experiences of Gen Z, providing a deeper understanding of their values, resilience, and contributions to today's world.

The GenX Experience Production Crew

Networking and Connection

I believe in the power of collective success, which is why I’m incredibly proud to share that The GenXperience with Aisha is a product of collaboration among a diverse and talented team from Mount Royal University. This exceptional group, ranging from first-year students to recent graduates, represents the best of what the university has to offer. My ability to recognize and bring together such remarkable talent has been key in crafting a show that not only highlights their individual skills but also exemplifies the strength of teamwork. Through effective networking and a keen eye for talent, I’ve been able to unite these creative minds to produce a project of excellence. The success of this venture is a reflection of both the amazing individuals behind it and the power of fostering meaningful connections.