Frequently Asked Questions

Generation X refers to the generation born roughly between 1965 and 1980. Sandwiched between the Baby Boomers and Millennials, GenXers are now in their mid-40s to early 60s — navigating career pivots and ageism, aging parents, taking care of our kids, financial challenges, and big questions about what we want our next chapters to look like. 

Gen X has a distinct set of experiences, values, and challenges that deserve bespoke attention. 

We were the first generation to grow up as latchkey kids — coming home to empty houses, figuring things out independently, and developing a self-reliance that became a defining trait. We came of age during a period where there was economic and political uncertainty, a rising divorce rate, among other challenges. 

The period where we grew up was also immensely rich in creativity in music, fashion, art, and beyond. Whether it was the advent of punk or hip-hop, GenXers are truly the OGs.

Gen X also sits at a unique cultural and technological crossroads. We grew up before the internet and adapted to the digital age as adults, so we understand both worlds in a way no other generation does.

Our adaptability is one of our greatest strengths.

Now in our mid-40s to early 60s, Gen Xers are in a distinct life stage — often managing aging parents, launching kids, and reconsidering careers and priorities all at the same time. We're experienced, resourceful, and in many cases ready for something different. 

GenXpertise was created just for us, because we deserve it - by GenXers for GenXers. 

• We’re experts. More than 50% of GenXers in the workforce hold professional or leadership roles in their companies and organizations.
• We’re the hardest workers in the current workforce. We know how to deliver, adapt, and get the job done. 
• We’re the bridge. Positioned between Boomers and Millennials, Gen X connects deep experience with a love of  innovation. We grew up with landline phones, and no computers - now we run companies that revolutionizes AI.
• We’re indispensable. The workforce needs us—just as we remain committed to creating success for ourselves and our families.

Generation X has an enormous amount of financial influence in the global economy. 

According to a 2025 global analysis from NielsenIQ (NIQ) and World Data Lab (WDL), Generation X is already the world’s second-largest global consumer economy and will continue to dominate for the next decade:

• $15.2 trillion in 2025: Gen X will drive more consumer spending than any other group, including $5 trillion in the U.S.
• $23 trillion by 2035: Global spending power will peak, with $7 trillion in the U.S. alone.
• Household CFOs: Gen X manages the finances of three households—our kids, our parents, and ourselves.

Financial challenges: We're the "sandwich generation" where many of us are simultaneously paying for our kids' lives while also supporting aging parents, often with little financial cushion. We also came of age before financial literacy was widely taught, hit the workforce during recessions, and watched our retirement savings (if we had them) take hits. We also carry a lot of debt. 

Work challenges: We're in a weird spot — too young to retire, but often overlooked for leadership roles in favor of younger (and less expensive) talent. Ageism sure is real. 

Health challenges:  We're hitting the age where chronic conditions start showing up, and many of us put own physical and mental health last while juggling family and career demands. 

GenXpertise® is a platform specifically built by GenX professionals for GenXers as we navigate career and life transitions. We offer numerous resources, including a career and leadership-oriented GX Substack, one-on-one and group coaching, a curated bookstore, and the upcoming GenXConnect business directory.  And we're just getting started! 

GenXpertise® was founded by Marianne Merritt Talbot, a lawyer, marketing expert, executive coach, former law professor, and CMBDO of a national law firm.  The concept of GenXpertise® was founded a decade or so ago around her dining room table in Manhattan where she hosted job search luncheons for former classmates and friends.  

Fast-forward to 2026, the expert team at GenXpertise® includes sales expert (and husband) Daniel Talbot, who worked at Google in NYC for over 15 years; coaching expert (and former high school classmate) Carlos Monteagudo who led global recruiting for  JP Morgan Chase and other notable companies; and Juilliard-trained musician and digital marketing expert Joshua Johnson, recently returned to NYC from several years in London. 

This GenXpertise® team is deeply dedicated to GenX success across industries and sectors.  Learn more about the team here.

 The best starting point is our Substack, where you can get a feel for what we're about. From there, you can explore coaching, browse the bookstore, and stay tuned for GenXConnect. We hope you find support, ideas, and inspiration.  

We welcome collaborations with individuals and companies who are interested in investing in the success of GenXers.  Please connect with founder and CEO Marianne Talbot with any inquiries.