GenX Adulting Podcast - Episode 59 - GenX Speaks Series: Jon Wellington - The Dadbod Veteran
Episode Summary
In Episode 59 of the GenX Adulting Podcast, hosts Brian and Nicole interview Jon Wellington, known as the Dadbod Veteran. Jon shares his experiences growing up as a 'baby Gen Xer,' his military background, and the challenges he faced with ADHD, family dynamics, and the impact of 9/11 on his naval career.
Key Takeaways
- Jon Wellington identifies as a 'baby Gen Xer' born in 1979.
- He grew up in a military family and was diagnosed with ADHD at a young age.
- Football became a crucial outlet for Jon, helping him manage his ADHD and personal struggles.
- Jon's father passed away during his junior year of high school, leading to significant challenges in his life.
- He joined the Navy after 9/11, serving on aircraft carriers and participating in combat deployments.
- Jon emphasizes the importance of accountability and coping skills for those with ADHD.
- He discusses the cultural shifts in parenting and societal expectations between Gen X and younger generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Jon Wellington?
Jon Wellington, also known as the Dadbod Veteran, is a guest on the GenX Adulting Podcast who shares his experiences as a baby Gen Xer and a military veteran.
What challenges did Jon face growing up?
Jon faced challenges with ADHD, family dynamics, and the loss of his father during his teenage years, which significantly impacted his outlook on life.
How did Jon's military service impact his life?
Jon's military service provided him with structure and purpose, helping him navigate personal struggles and leading to a successful career in the Navy.
Part of these Topics: 9/11 Experiences & Memories, Divorce & Co-Parenting, Military & Veteran Life
Featured guests: Jon Wellington
Description
In this episode we welcome Jon Wellington, also known as The Dadbod Veteran. Jon shares about his GenX childhood in Charleston, South Carolina, which included growing up on a military base as well as experiencing a civilian upbringing. We learn about his ADHD diagnosis, and how medication combined with therapy and coping tools helped him downshift and find a balance that allowed him to thrive. We learn about how his love of football became a focal point in his life in addition to helping him find purpose during his high school years after the loss of his father to cancer. Joining the Navy coincided with becoming a young father, and we reflect on the sacrifices military families make as Jon shares about his extensive travels around the world when he served as an FC, or Fire Controlman. Shore Duty brought Jon back home to Charleston and his family, and we discuss the differences between corporate and military as he transitioned between the two. Jon shares about having a blended family and his beautifully unique situation, and we learn about the moment The Dadbod Veteran was born. As The Dadbod Veteran’s audience grew, so did more opportunities and experiences. An inquiry form Sherri Dindal, also known as The Real Slim Sherri, led to the phenomenon that is now known as The GenX Takeover. Together with GenX personalities Nick Harrison aka The Professor, Kelly Manno and of course, The Real Slim Sherri, Jon has become part of a touring comedy show that has literally taken on a life of its own. With comedian Justin Rupple as emcee, and musician Jojo Malagar added to the show, the GenX Takeover Tour has amassed such a following that they have 26 shows, and counting, booked for 2026! We marvel at Jon’s inspiring journey from military to corporate to stand-up comedy, as he offers us a glimpse into his method of preparation before he steps on stage. It truly is a courageous undertaking at any age, but especially to brave it midlife. The feat is even more impressive considering Jon just underwent hip surgery, a journey he candidly shares with us. Jon’s blend of military and corporate background, combined with his obvious pride and love for his wife and children, quick wit and quiet intelligence and courage to do the non-normative thing midlife is sure to inspire many GenX listeners. We truly enjoyed our conversation with Jon and can’t wait to attend another show!
Chapters
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
00:56 Family Background
04:00 Being Diagnosed With ADHD
10:27 The Gen Alphas
12:45 The Evolution of Charleston, South Carolina
35:38 Elementary and Middle School
41:52 The Role of Connection: Reality vs Technology
43:33 Losing Father to Cancer During High School
51:35 Spanking As An Acceptable Parenting Tool
55:13 Joining the Military After Graduation
01:04:25 Memorable Experiences in Foreign Ports
01:10:04 Serving During 9/11
01:20:36 The Sacrifice of the Military Family
01:23:09 Shipbuilding and Radar Systems
01:26:49 Returning to Charleston and Family Life While on Shore Duty
01:31:56 Transitioning from Military to Corporate
01:37:52 Blending Families and Co-Parenting Dynamics
01:45:30 From Factory to Working From Home
01:47:18 Global Event Security for Mercedes
01:51:54 Becoming The Dadbod Veteran
02:09:18 The GenX Takeover Tour
02:27:04 NASCAR Experience
02:29:46 AARP Sponsorship
02:31:03 Early Tour Stops and The Growth of The GenX Takeover
02:38:18 Method of Preparation and Handling Stage Fright
02:43:18 Hip Surgery Journey
02:47:44 Getting Back Out On The Road
02:52:14 Inspiring GenX
02:58:20 An Adventure in Scotland With Charles MacLean
03:07:41 5 Year Vision
03:13:52 Outro
Check Jon Out Here:
Website and Store: https://thedadbodveteran.com/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thedadbodveteran?lang=en
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedadbodveteran/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thedadbodveteran
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dadbodveteran
Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/dbveteran
Check Us Out Here:
https://www.genxadultingpodcast.com/
Tags
#genx #genxtalks #navy #military #corporate #family #marriage #father #fatherhood #adhd #football #genxtakeover #thedadbodveteran #therapy #travel #comedy #standup #storytime #interview #inspire #advice #growthmindset #midlife #allthingsgenx #genxlife