Greg Pyka takes a raw, nostalgic ride through Gen X youth—cruising T-top Camaros, blaring aggressive 80s music, moshing at shows, and pulling wild pranks and stunts. This episode celebrates the reckless, self-made spirit that defined a generation.

The host shares personal stories that capture the grit, humor, and defiant energy of growing up Gen X, recounting some wild memories— backyard fights, unforgettable live-show chaos, and the legendary night they stole a high-loader to bring to a party.

An interview with Greg Pyka on his Gen X For Life podcast was a highlight of the Podcast Movement Convention 2025. During the conversation, he shared insights and experiences from his time in the podcasting industry. Pyka’s engaging discussion resonated with attendees, offering a unique perspective on the evolution of podcasting through the lens of a Gen X creator.

Recalling their wild college adventures, David and I remember a time when a dummy, eerily resembling a classmate, fell from a window, causing a huge stir. We also had intense "cyber warfare" with fellow students and used wrist rockets to launch M-80s. Our most exciting escapades, however, involved exploring the college's network of underground tunnels in search of adventure.

Reading with former librarian, Robin Cashman, is a real treat as she has read thousands of books throughout her career. She shares wild and entertaining stories from her time in the classroom, offering a unique look at her experiences with kids. Her insights provide a fun and engaging perspective on the world of books and the students who read them.

Joanne Weeks was a dancer on the television show American Bandstand, where she showcased her moves. Living in Southern California, she enjoyed visiting Disneyland. Later in life, she became a roller derby racer.

In an unforgettable incident, Heath Kimberling and I, at ages 16 and 15 respectively, survived a terrifying 140 mph wipeout in a Camaro. The car spun and crashed, but we walked away without serious injury. To this day, we still recount the wild story of that high-speed accident and how lucky we were to survive it.

Greg Pyka sits down with his uncle Rich to discuss his war stories as an Air Force Navigator. Uncle Rich shares incredible tales from his service in a B-52 bomber, where he flew over 200 bombing missions and logged over 2,000 hours in the air. Their conversation highlights the challenges and experiences of a navigator during wartime, offering a unique glimpse into military aviation history.

Greg Pyka recalls the 1980s on his podcast, sharing his personal memories from the decade. He dives into the music, movies, and major events that defined the era. Through his stories, he offers listeners a nostalgic look back at life in the 80s.