GenX Adulting Podcast Episode 67 GenX Speaks: Vanessa Grigoriadis - So Your Parents Are Old Podcast
Episode Summary
In Episode 67 of the GenX Adulting Podcast, Vanessa Grigoriadis, host of the 'So Your Parents Are Old' podcast, discusses her experiences growing up in New York City, her artistic family background, and the challenges of adulting while caring for aging parents. The conversation touches on generational differences, the impact of 9/11, and the complexities of balancing personal and professional life.
Key Takeaways
- Vanessa grew up in a creative household with an artist mother and a computer scientist father.
- She experienced a sheltered yet vibrant childhood in New York City, navigating its complexities and cultural scenes.
- Vanessa's parents had a loving but traditional relationship dynamic, influenced by their cultural backgrounds.
- She reflects on the challenges of being an only child, especially in caring for aging parents.
- Vanessa's career in journalism began at New York Magazine, where she covered lifestyle topics and later transitioned to more serious subjects.
- The impact of 9/11 on her life and the lives of those around her was profound, shaping her perspective on journalism and storytelling.
- Vanessa emphasizes the importance of understanding generational differences in adulting and the complexities of modern life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main focus of Vanessa Grigoriadis's podcast?
Vanessa's podcast, 'So Your Parents Are Old,' focuses on the challenges and experiences of caring for aging parents, exploring generational differences and personal stories.
How did Vanessa's upbringing influence her career?
Growing up in a creative environment with an artist mother and a professional father instilled in Vanessa a passion for storytelling and writing, leading her to a successful career in journalism.
What was Vanessa's experience during 9/11?
Vanessa was living in New York City during 9/11 and recalls the surreal experience of witnessing the events unfold, which deeply impacted her perspective on journalism and the world.
Part of these Topics: 9/11 Experiences & Memories, Creators & Podcasters
Featured guests: Vanessa Grigoriadis
Description
In this episode, we welcome Vanessa Grigoriadis, host of the “So Your Parents Are Old” podcast. Vanessa takes us through her New York City upbringing, shaped by her father’s career as a college professor, her mother’s life as a renowned artist, and her family’s Greek heritage.
We explore the GenX latchkey kid experience from the perspective of an only child, though Vanessa admits she didn’t quite have the feral freedom many GenXers remember. From NYC mall culture to the pop‑culture touchstones of the era, we dive into what it meant to grow up GenX in the city.
Vanessa shares stories from her years at Wesleyan University, and her early career at New York Magazine, where Nicole notes she was essentially living a real‑life Sex and the City moment, sipping Cosmopolitans and walking Manhattan in Manolo Blahniks in the 90s.
Her move to Rolling Stone in the early 2000s opened the door to countless celebrities, including early interviews with Katy Perry, Taylor Swift, and Usher. Together, we take a deep look at how celebrity culture has evolved since those early career moments.
We also talk about balancing career with marriage and motherhood as Vanessa continued her role as a journalist, became a published author with her book “Blurred Lines: Rethinking Sex, Power and Consent on Campus”, and added podcaster to her resume. Our conversation turns deeply personal as we reflect on losing a parent and caring for an aging parent with dementia. Vanessa offers thoughtful, compassionate insight for anyone navigating caregiving, wisdom she brings to her podcast, a resource for those suddenly thrust into this challenging role.
Finally, we discuss the reality so many GenXers face today of being part of the sandwich generation where you’re caring for aging parents while still raising children.
We loved our conversation with Vanessa and know listeners will find her story both fascinating and insightful. Be sure to check out “So Your Parents Are Old” podcast!
Check Vanessa Out Here:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SoYourParentsAreOld
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/so-your-parents-are-old/id1589072529
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6FJG6RyOtCxuldmJevkRro?si=c61993ba6b264a37&nd=1&dlsi=12959dc78bad481b
Check Us Out Here:
https://genxadultingpodcast.com/
Chapters
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
05:13 Family Background and Having a Mom Who is An Artist
29:17 Growing Up in a Unique Household
35:37 Parental Influence and Career Paths
42:02 Reflections on Parental Relationships
47:20 Navigating Childhood Interests and Expectations
53:41 The Burden of Adulting
01:02:52 Growing Up In New York City
01:10:56 The Sandwich Generation: Balancing Friendships and Family Responsibilities
01:12:04 Only Child Latchkey Kid Experience
01:16:24 GenX Pop Culture Experience
01:20:59 College Life: Freedom, Friendship, and Academic Choices
01:28:10 Career Beginnings: From College to New York Magazine
01:31:50 Living and Working in New York City During 9/11
01:38:31 The Role of Journalists Post-9/11
01:46:05 The Changing Landscape of Content Creation
01:54:14 Socioeconomic Factors Now vs Then
02:02:30 Navigating Healthcare and Financial Challenges for the Elderly
02:04:36 The Impact of AI
02:19:20 The Evolution of Journalism and Celebrity Culture
02:28:03 The Changing Landscape of Media and Celebrity Interviews
02:34:17 Challenges with Iconic Figures
02:43:51 The Evolution of Celebrity Personas
02:50:57 Published Author: "Blurred Lines: Rethinking Sex, Power and Consent on Campus"
02:54:12 Losing a Parent
02:55:48 Ski Accident in Montana
02:57:47 Meeting Husband
02:59:15 Navigating Motherhood and Career Flexibility
03:04:48 Having a Parent With Dementia
03:07:54 Understanding Dementia and Its Impact
03:13:23 Advice for Caregivers: Lessons Learned
03:20:29 So Your Parents Are Old Podcast
03:30:45 Being Sandwiched Between Caring for Aging Parents and Raising Kids
03:40:02 Ivanka Trump Podcast and Scripted Podcasts
03:52:58 Music Taste
03:55:41 5 Year Vision
Tags
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