<![CDATA[Faark I Hope It's Not Too Late]]>Not Dead Yet And Neither Are Your Ambitions

If you’ve ever sat in a meeting, stared out the window, and thought, “Faark, I hope it’s not too late for me to do something that actually matters…” you’re in the right place.

I’m Alan: lifelong generalist, serial career reinventor. I started this Podcast because, well, honestly, because I was ready to stop pretending that “coasting to retirement” was enough.

Let’s not sugar-coat it: You’ve got decades of experience, a CV cleaner

than your kitchen counter, but deep down you want more something that’s genuinely yours, not just another title or another line on LinkedIn.

What you'll get:

Real stories. The good, the bad, and the “well, that didn’t work.” You get the unfiltered truth from people who’ve jumped off the corporate carousel (sometimes landing on their feet).

]]>https://Generalistalan.substack.comRiverside.fm (https://riverside.com)Thu, 05 Nov 2026 12:48:42 GMTTue, 18 Nov 2025 02:42:52 GMT60Alan Barnes<h2><b>Not Dead Yet And Neither Are Your Ambitions</b></h2><p> If you’ve ever sat in a meeting, stared out the window, and thought, “Faark, I hope it’s not too late for me to do something that actually matters…” you’re in the right place.</p><p>I’m Alan: lifelong generalist, serial career reinventor. I started this Podcast because, well, honestly, because I was ready to stop pretending that “coasting to retirement” was enough.</p><p>Let’s not sugar-coat it: You’ve got decades of experience, a CV cleaner</p><p>than your kitchen counter, but deep down you want <i>more</i> something that’s genuinely yours, not just another title or another line on LinkedIn.</p><p>What you'll get:</p><p><b>Real stories.</b> The good, the bad, and the “well, that didn’t work.” You get the unfiltered truth from people who’ve jumped off the corporate carousel (sometimes landing on their feet).</p>episodicAlan Barneswideeyemarketing@gmail.comyes<![CDATA[The New News]]>In this conversation, journalist Zoe Madden Smith shares her journey in journalism, discussing the challenges faced by youth media and the importance of representation. The dialogue explores the misconceptions about young audiences and the rise of independent journalism as a response to mainstream media's shortcomings. In this conversation, Zoe and Alan discuss the changing landscape of media consumption, particularly among younger audiences. They explore the challenges faced by youth media, the importance of trust in journalism, and the hopeful future of the industry.


Takeaways

  • Youth journalism is vital
  • Independent media is on the rise Youth media needs quality content
  • Trust in media is essential


Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Zoe's Journey
  • 03:06 The Impact of Youth Journalism Cuts
  • 05:54 Representation in News Media
  • 09:04 The Misconception of Young Audiences
  • 11:50 Challenges of Monetizing Youth Media
  • 14:58 The Rise of Independent Journalists
  • 18:02 The Importance of Sourcing in Journalism
  • 23:03 The Evolution of Media Consumption
  • 29:35 Challenges in Youth Media Engagement
  • 33:03 Building Trust with Younger Audiences
  • 36:03 The Future of Journalism and Hope
]]>943007ee-225f-4c11-add7-9dff8b2004a6Sat, 03 Oct 2026 20:44:19 GMT<p>In this conversation, journalist Zoe Madden Smith shares her journey in journalism, discussing the challenges faced by youth media and the importance of representation. The dialogue explores the misconceptions about young audiences and the rise of independent journalism as a response to mainstream media's shortcomings. In this conversation, Zoe and Alan discuss the changing landscape of media consumption, particularly among younger audiences. They explore the challenges faced by youth media, the importance of trust in journalism, and the hopeful future of the industry.</p><p><br /></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Youth journalism is vital</li><li>Independent media is on the rise Youth media needs quality content</li><li>Trust in media is essential</li></ul><p><br /></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Zoe's Journey</li><li>03:06 The Impact of Youth Journalism Cuts</li><li>05:54 Representation in News Media</li><li>09:04 The Misconception of Young Audiences</li><li>11:50 Challenges of Monetizing Youth Media</li><li>14:58 The Rise of Independent Journalists</li><li>18:02 The Importance of Sourcing in Journalism</li><li>23:03 The Evolution of Media Consumption</li><li>29:35 Challenges in Youth Media Engagement</li><li>33:03 Building Trust with Younger Audiences</li><li>36:03 The Future of Journalism and Hope</li></ul>no00:37:05The New Newsfull<![CDATA[The Follow Through Guy]]>The real reason people fail at health, productivity, and big life changes is not a lack of knowledge - it is fear, self-sabotage, and the habit of choosing comfort over progress. Adam shares the mindset shift that took him from Ernst and Young to building My Body Tutor, and why the same accountability model now powers both fitness and productivity.
What started with just three clients has grown into a 19-year business with 75+ coaches and more than 10,000 people helped - not through flashy marketing, but through human accountability, consistency, and trust. Adam breaks down why sustainable change almost always starts smaller than people want to admit, why “mission” beats “goal,” and how the psychology behind behavior matters more than the perfect plan.
You'll discover:
Why fear of failure - and even fear of success - keeps people stuck
The hidden motivations behind self-sabotage and why “being busy” can be a form of avoidance
How discomfort becomes a compass instead of a problem
Why health progress spills into confidence, work, and every other part of life
What AI can and cannot replace when it comes to accountability and behavior change
We also get into the traps of social media, unrealistic expectations, the difference between what men and women often want from coaching, and why GLP-1s can be a useful tool without ever solving habits. Adam’s view is refreshingly grounded: knowledge is everywhere, but consistent action is rare.
If you are thinking about changing your body, starting a business, or reinventing yourself at any stage of life, this conversation is a practical reminder that the next move does not have to be dramatic - it has to be real. Perfect for anyone who knows what to do, but needs help actually doing it.
Adam is the founder of My Body Tutor and Done Daily, known for helping thousands of people build lasting habits through coaching, accountability, and behavior change.

]]>4cf3e847-ec82-40e5-bc2d-6d1861382068Sat, 22 Aug 2026 21:50:53 GMT<p>The real reason people fail at health, productivity, and big life changes is not a lack of knowledge - it is fear, self-sabotage, and the habit of choosing comfort over progress. Adam shares the mindset shift that took him from Ernst and Young to building My Body Tutor, and why the same accountability model now powers both fitness and productivity.<br />What started with just three clients has grown into a 19-year business with 75+ coaches and more than 10,000 people helped - not through flashy marketing, but through human accountability, consistency, and trust. Adam breaks down why sustainable change almost always starts smaller than people want to admit, why “mission” beats “goal,” and how the psychology behind behavior matters more than the perfect plan.<br />You'll discover:<br />Why fear of failure - and even fear of success - keeps people stuck<br />The hidden motivations behind self-sabotage and why “being busy” can be a form of avoidance<br />How discomfort becomes a compass instead of a problem<br />Why health progress spills into confidence, work, and every other part of life<br />What AI can and cannot replace when it comes to accountability and behavior change<br />We also get into the traps of social media, unrealistic expectations, the difference between what men and women often want from coaching, and why GLP-1s can be a useful tool without ever solving habits. Adam’s view is refreshingly grounded: knowledge is everywhere, but consistent action is rare.<br />If you are thinking about changing your body, starting a business, or reinventing yourself at any stage of life, this conversation is a practical reminder that the next move does not have to be dramatic - it has to be real. Perfect for anyone who knows what to do, but needs help actually doing it.<br />Adam is the founder of My Body Tutor and Done Daily, known for helping thousands of people build lasting habits through coaching, accountability, and behavior change.</p>no00:38:20110The Follow Through Guyfull<![CDATA[Stuff It I Quit]]>Embracing Reinvention: From Radio Host to Media Entrepreneur with JJ
Discover how Jay Jay transitioned from a decades-long broadcasting career to building a successful media business, confronting fears of irrelevance, and embracing change at midlife. This episode explores the power of intuition, the importance of leveraging past experience, and practical insights for aspiring content creators.
In this episode:
Why JJ decided to leave radio after 30 years and how the culture shift influenced his decision
The challenge of ego and relevance in stepping away from a high-profile media career
The concept of reversioning versus reinvention, and why JJ sees his move as a reversion
How long-term reputation and credibility support new ventures in independent media
The realities and misconceptions of starting a podcast: costs, audience growth, and monetization
The significance of support networks and the importance of trusting others' expertise
Practical advice for aspiring podcasters: starting simple, expectations, and long-term mindset
The psychological barriers to change and how JJ's midlife decision brought excitement and joy
The role of assets, savings, and independence in making bold career pivots
How to leverage niche audiences and the evolving landscape of independent media
The importance of courage, exposure to risk, and the desire for happiness over financial gain

]]>7a6b63e7-8cfb-4706-a9d7-b771b5ea2c50Sun, 02 Aug 2026 01:12:22 GMT<p>Embracing Reinvention: From Radio Host to Media Entrepreneur with JJ<br />Discover how Jay Jay transitioned from a decades-long broadcasting career to building a successful media business, confronting fears of irrelevance, and embracing change at midlife. This episode explores the power of intuition, the importance of leveraging past experience, and practical insights for aspiring content creators.<br />In this episode:<br />Why JJ decided to leave radio after 30 years and how the culture shift influenced his decision<br />The challenge of ego and relevance in stepping away from a high-profile media career<br />The concept of reversioning versus reinvention, and why JJ sees his move as a reversion<br />How long-term reputation and credibility support new ventures in independent media<br />The realities and misconceptions of starting a podcast: costs, audience growth, and monetization<br />The significance of support networks and the importance of trusting others' expertise<br />Practical advice for aspiring podcasters: starting simple, expectations, and long-term mindset<br />The psychological barriers to change and how JJ's midlife decision brought excitement and joy<br />The role of assets, savings, and independence in making bold career pivots<br />How to leverage niche audiences and the evolving landscape of independent media<br />The importance of courage, exposure to risk, and the desire for happiness over financial gain<br /></p>no00:36:4919Stuff It I Quitfull<![CDATA[Dust On Her Boots]]>Title: Dust On Her Boots
From Foreign Correspondent to Independent Media: Anna Fifield's Journey and Insights into Global Reporting
In this episode, we explore the remarkable career of a veteran journalist Anna Fifield who has reported from North Korea, Iran, and the White House, and now leads a New Zealand-focused independent media platform. Gain insights into the changing landscape of journalism, trust in media, and the importance of on-the-ground reporting in today's geopolitics.

]]>c31a65a5-6bea-4b2b-8ee8-4a6ae6094d56Sat, 04 Jul 2026 22:42:14 GMT<p>Title: Dust On Her Boots<br />From Foreign Correspondent to Independent Media: Anna Fifield's Journey and Insights into Global Reporting<br />In this episode, we explore the remarkable career of a veteran journalist Anna Fifield who has reported from North Korea, Iran, and the White House, and now leads a New Zealand-focused independent media platform. Gain insights into the changing landscape of journalism, trust in media, and the importance of on-the-ground reporting in today's geopolitics.</p>no00:41:50Dust On Her Bootsfull<![CDATA[5000 Hardbacks In The Garage ]]>From Journalist to Children's Author: The Story of James' Reinvention
Discover how James transitioned from a long career in journalism to becoming a successful author and publisher. His story highlights the power of persistence, community-building, and embracing opportunities unexpectedly.
In this episode:
James shares his unconventional journey into writing and publishing children's books
The importance of taking the next step rather than waiting for perfect conditions
How community and word-of-mouth continue to drive his success
The role of risk-taking and persistence in reinventing oneself
Innovative marketing strategies he uses to stand out in the industry
The impact of visits to schools and community engagement on his work

]]>ea01f7a4-b198-4f31-b0e6-8840a89e3652Sat, 13 Jun 2026 19:55:42 GMT<p>From Journalist to Children's Author: The Story of James' Reinvention<br />Discover how James transitioned from a long career in journalism to becoming a successful author and publisher. His story highlights the power of persistence, community-building, and embracing opportunities unexpectedly.<br />In this episode:<br />James shares his unconventional journey into writing and publishing children's books<br />The importance of taking the next step rather than waiting for perfect conditions<br />How community and word-of-mouth continue to drive his success<br />The role of risk-taking and persistence in reinventing oneself<br />Innovative marketing strategies he uses to stand out in the industry<br />The impact of visits to schools and community engagement on his work</p>no00:38:495000 Hardbacks In The Garage full<![CDATA[Not Being A Passenger In Your Own Life ]]>Unlock the secret to turning a simple art project into a global multi-million dollar business—without reinventing the wheel. Phil Williams, founder of Metal Bird, reveals how a passion for native birds evolved into a scalable, overseas success—and the surprising mindset shifts that made it possible. If you're curious about how creativity, entrepreneurial grit, and systemized scaling can transform a hobby into a thriving enterprise, this episode is your ultimate blueprint.
Phil's journey begins in his shed, hammering metal silhouettes of New Zealand’s native birds to share his love of art and design. What started as a leisurely project to amuse his kids exploded into a worldwide phenomenon, with sales exceeding $35 million annually in the US alone. He shares the behind-the-scenes truths about navigating growth, from outsourcing manufacturing to mastering performance marketing—a narrative packed with tactical lessons on systematizing ideas, building community, and turning artistic passion into a powerful business model.

]]>19e817b8-b8e3-4c50-bde7-16c654339a81Sat, 23 May 2026 23:00:00 GMT<p>Unlock the secret to turning a simple art project into a global multi-million dollar business—without reinventing the wheel. Phil Williams, founder of Metal Bird, reveals how a passion for native birds evolved into a scalable, overseas success—and the surprising mindset shifts that made it possible. If you're curious about how creativity, entrepreneurial grit, and systemized scaling can transform a hobby into a thriving enterprise, this episode is your ultimate blueprint.<br />Phil's journey begins in his shed, hammering metal silhouettes of New Zealand’s native birds to share his love of art and design. What started as a leisurely project to amuse his kids exploded into a worldwide phenomenon, with sales exceeding $35 million annually in the US alone. He shares the behind-the-scenes truths about navigating growth, from outsourcing manufacturing to mastering performance marketing—a narrative packed with tactical lessons on systematizing ideas, building community, and turning artistic passion into a powerful business model.</p>no00:41:55Not Being A Passenger In Your Own Life full<![CDATA[Every Second Counts With Charlotte Glennie]]>Join Charlotte Glennie as she shares her transformative journey from a near-death experience to a career in journalism across Asia. Discover how this pivotal moment reshaped her views on bravery, vulnerability, and human generosity. Explore her insights on storytelling, activism, and the evolving political landscape in China. Perfect for those seeking inspiration and a deeper understanding of resilience and authenticity.

]]>c78f9ce9-016a-4041-9bad-aea28b9e9077Sun, 19 Apr 2026 04:52:55 GMT<p>Join Charlotte Glennie as she shares her transformative journey from a near-death experience to a career in journalism across Asia. Discover how this pivotal moment reshaped her views on bravery, vulnerability, and human generosity. Explore her insights on storytelling, activism, and the evolving political landscape in China. Perfect for those seeking inspiration and a deeper understanding of resilience and authenticity.</p>no00:38:485Every Second Counts With Charlotte Glenniefull<![CDATA[Jane Dent The Accidental Path ]]>Summary
The conversation covers Jane Dent's journey through various career transitions, from journalism to sports broadcasting, academia, and beyond. It highlights the importance of mentoring, building relationships, and the transferable skills that have been crucial to her success. Jane's insights provide valuable advice for both young individuals and those seeking a mid-career change.

Takeaways

  • Transitioning between different roles and careers can be a non-linear journey.
  • Mentoring and building relationships with people are key to success in various roles.



Chapters

  • 00:00 Transitioning Between Careers
  • 05:20 Transition to Sports Broadcasting
  • 12:30 Leadership and Empowerment
  • 21:00 Adapting to Change
  • 28:52 Transferable Skills and Career Progression
]]>49769565-cc1e-4a3f-a81d-ceedbe4e8db2Sat, 21 Feb 2026 22:00:00 GMT<p>Summary<br />The conversation covers Jane Dent's journey through various career transitions, from journalism to sports broadcasting, academia, and beyond. It highlights the importance of mentoring, building relationships, and the transferable skills that have been crucial to her success. Jane's insights provide valuable advice for both young individuals and those seeking a mid-career change.<br /><br />Takeaways<br /></p><ul><li>Transitioning between different roles and careers can be a non-linear journey.<br /></li><li>Mentoring and building relationships with people are key to success in various roles.<br /></li></ul><p><br /><br />Chapters<br /></p><ul><li><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G2bsCXB3N8g">00:00</a> Transitioning Between Careers<br /></li><li><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G2bsCXB3N8g&amp;t=320s">05:20</a> Transition to Sports Broadcasting<br /></li><li><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G2bsCXB3N8g&amp;t=750s">12:30</a> Leadership and Empowerment<br /></li><li><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G2bsCXB3N8g&amp;t=1260s">21:00</a> Adapting to Change<br /></li><li><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G2bsCXB3N8g&amp;t=1732s">28:52</a> Transferable Skills and Career Progression</li></ul>no00:34:2414Jane Dent The Accidental Path full<![CDATA[Sonya's Creative Path From TV To Books]]>Summary
The conversation covers Sonya's journey from becoming a journalist to founding a charity, highlighting the value of storytelling, career transitions, ambition, mentorship, and the power of reinvention. It also delves into the art of scripting, the challenges of writing a book, and the importance of networking and learning. Sonya's inspiring story showcases the impact of storytelling and the positive influence of her charity work.

Takeaways

  • Career transitions
  • The value of storytelling
]]>976520c7-95ea-4728-8131-7326110a2590Sat, 17 Jan 2026 22:06:05 GMT<p>Summary<br />The conversation covers Sonya's journey from becoming a journalist to founding a charity, highlighting the value of storytelling, career transitions, ambition, mentorship, and the power of reinvention. It also delves into the art of scripting, the challenges of writing a book, and the importance of networking and learning. Sonya's inspiring story showcases the impact of storytelling and the positive influence of her charity work.<br /><br />Takeaways<br /></p><ul><li>Career transitions<br /></li><li>The value of storytelling</li></ul>no00:33:4213Sonya's Creative Path From TV To Booksfull<![CDATA[No Shame, More Story: Emma’s Leap from News to Film]]>Join us as we delve into the inspiring journey of Emma Keeling, a storyteller who transitioned from journalism to filmmaking. In this episode, Emma shares her experiences, challenges, and the pivotal moments that led her to embrace a new creative path. Discover how Emma's passion for storytelling and her ability to connect with people have shaped her career. From her early days in journalism to her current projects in film, Emma's story is a testament to the power of reinvention and the courage to pursue one's passions. Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with insights and inspiration.

]]>2114a920-0ada-41dc-946a-f9ede2b2af03Sat, 13 Dec 2025 22:00:00 GMT<p>Join us as we delve into the inspiring journey of Emma Keeling, a storyteller who transitioned from journalism to filmmaking. In this episode, Emma shares her experiences, challenges, and the pivotal moments that led her to embrace a new creative path. Discover how Emma's passion for storytelling and her ability to connect with people have shaped her career. From her early days in journalism to her current projects in film, Emma's story is a testament to the power of reinvention and the courage to pursue one's passions. Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with insights and inspiration.</p>no00:36:1412No Shame, More Story: Emma’s Leap from News to Filmfull<![CDATA[Media Entrepreneur Ric Salizzo ]]>Ric Salizzo on Independent Media, Trust, and the Courage to Ship

How a contrarian media entrepreneur built lasting success by staying agile, shipping fast, and never breaking trust with his audience.

]]>37bbe4ae-da35-4730-a9c4-6837f01d3088Tue, 18 Nov 2025 02:47:48 GMT<h2><b>Ric Salizzo on Independent Media, Trust, and the Courage to Ship</b></h2><p>How a contrarian media entrepreneur built lasting success by staying agile, shipping fast, and never breaking trust with his audience.</p>no00:33:32Media Entrepreneur Ric Salizzo full