First, some exciting news! Come follow us with our new account @oppositeofneutral on both Instagram and Threads. You can continue to send your thoughts, comments, and episode ideas to [email protected].

In this episode, Chris and Evan dive into the realm of imposter syndrome. Why do we struggle to accept that our successes are real? What makes us struggle to feel like we belong? 

Chris shares its origins in the 1970s as different groups felt the impact of external factors on reinforcing feelings of not belonging. Evan recounts a personal experience from high school, where he felt like an imposter in a math class. Chris reflects on social situations where he felt out of place, from punk clubs to climbing gyms, highlighting the influence of perceived "uniforms" and group dynamics. 

Together, they examine how societal structures and the "good old boys club" contribute to imposter syndrome today. They ponder the complexities of belonging, the importance of inclusive cultures, and the challenge of dismantling systemic barriers. Join Chris and Evan as they dig into this common experience.

In Season 2, Episode 4 of "Opposite of Neutral," Chris and Evan take a nostalgic journey back to their childhoods, exploring the curiosity and adventures that shaped their young minds.

From Chris's memories of adventures on waterslides to Evan's fascination with hamsters and astronomy, they reminisce about the joys of exploration and the freedom of youth. This includes the impact of supportive parents on their hobbies and the lasting memories created by simple pleasures like climbing trees, playing in creeks, and visiting Chuck E. Cheese. They also acknowledge a justification for the lack of a Tillamook reference in the last episode - pointed out by those of you paying extra close attention.

And for the first time that either of them could remember in the history of the podcast, there was a perfect “that’s what she said” moment.

They also look ahead to the next episode, where they'll tackle the topic of imposter syndrome, hopefully with fewer references to pasta.

In this episode of Opposite of Neutral, Chris and Evan explore the concept of the 'small world.' Evan shares his small world experience where he ran into comedian and actor Will Ferrell in New York, an encounter that reinforced his decision to teach there. They then share small world stories about teaching internationally and traveling around the world. They also discuss assumptions about the world becoming 'smaller' with the advent of the internet, when from personal experiences, it appears to be becoming even vaster. 

They close the episode by seeking your input on future episode topics: 'Just press send', 'Imposter syndrome', 'When we were young', or 'Side hustle.'

Be sure to vote on which one you want for the next episode on the Spotify poll!

00:00 Introduction and Cold Open Discussion

00:48 Meet the Hosts: Evan and Chris

01:09 Evan's Disney Experiences

03:06 Chris's Lost and Found Story

07:13 Evan's Small World Story: Meeting Will Ferrell

15:24 Chris's Small World Story: Pearl Jam Concert

17:54 Reflecting on Will Ferrell's Career

19:51 Sidetracked: The Career of Will Ferrell

19:59 The Small World: A Personal Experience

21:24 The Unexpected Reunion

22:53 The Science Teacher Chris: Another Small World Story

23:41 The International Teaching World: A Web of Connections

24:28 The Sixth Grade Class: Another Unexpected Connection

25:14 The Small World Connections: Jake’s Story

30:32 The Small World vs Big World: A New Perspective

36:21 The World's Fair: A Glimpse into the Past

40:48 The World Expo: A Sampler Platter of the World

41:19 The Internet: A Double-Edged Sword

42:34 The Small World: Bringing Us Together

42:45 Next Week's Topics: A Poll for Listeners

In this episode, Chris and Evan sift through the quirky and curious aspects of spam, both as an email nuisance and a canned delicacy.

In a blend of facts, fiction, and fun, they explore the unexpected connections between email spam and Monty Python and discuss the global phenomenon of Spam, the food product. Evan reads through some of the spam received at the podcast's email address. They do a deep dive into the concept of digital hoarding - why do we cling to old emails, documents, and even USB cables from the early 2000s? Or is that just Evan?

They then pull at the thread of decluttering and the challenge of letting go, whether it's physical items or digital files.

What big milestone is Chris about to hit on Instagram? Why does Evan still have robotics shirts from fifteen years ago? And what did Chris make with spam that has Evan pining for onigiri? Listen to find out. 

And don't forget to tune in for our next episode exploring the marvels of small world experiences.

Do you have your own stories of digital clutter? Have a small world encounter to share in advance of the next episode? Share with us at [email protected]. 

Welcome back! In this premiere episode of Opposite of Neutral: Season 2, Evan and Chris dive right back into their thoughtful and lively discussions, this time exploring the world of first impressions.

From their significance in professional settings and personal relationships to our responses to media, Chris and Evan share stories, reflections, and laughs. They delve into how first impressions shape our experiences, from job interviews and teaching moments to the changing perspectives on TV shows like 'Friends' and 'Schitt's Creek.' They also examine how first encounters with books can evolve, highlighting the importance of giving stories a fair chance.

They then move on to the challenge of deciding how to feel about heavier societal issues. The conversation spans the complexities of global events, like the Israel-Palestine conflict, underscoring the challenges of forming balanced opinions amidst the pressure of snap judgments. They also share personal anecdotes, including experiences with students working with fire, and (of course) a nod to their beloved Tillamook cheese.

Join Chris and Evan as they discuss how life, much like their conversation, is full of surprises and opportunities for growth. 

Have thoughts on first impressions or stories of your own? Share them with us at [email protected].

And stay tuned for our next episode, 'Potential Spam', where we explore the unexpected finds in life's digital and real junk drawers.

In this final episode for the first season of Opposite of Neutral, hosts Evan and Chris invite listeners to join them for a recording made live on the road. Plus, Evan makes a bonus on-location recording from the Tillamook factory in Oregon.

While Chris drives, he narrates the trip through the towns of Anacortes and Edison, Washington. He and Evan discuss the stories that bubble up from being in both familiar and unfamiliar places. They explore road trips in literature, the concept of “micro-travel”, driving habits, and their favorite road trips. This episode is a celebration of journeys, both literal and metaphorical, and the shared experiences that make them memorable.

Thank you for riding along with us for the past fifteen episodes! This episode marks the end of the first season. The podcast will resume once Evan gets settled in Chile.

Since you will all be hankering for new episodes during the break, it's time to keep the podcast email box from getting dusty. Maybe something in the first fifteen episodes resonated with you. Perhaps you have a top ten list of your own. Whatever it is...we want to hear from you!

Please send an email to ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠ with your ideas, comments, and guest suggestions. 

In this episode of Opposite of Neutral, join hosts Evan, Chris, and guest Clayton as they navigate the world of titles (or their lack thereof.) From their significance in art to implications in professional settings, they explore ways that titles inform, classify, and influence. They debate apple preferences, untitled artworks, and courtesy titles, along with their frustration with untitled assignments submitted by students.

The next episode, titled 'On The Road', is the first to be recorded with Chris and Evan in person! It will also be the final episode of season one. Don't miss it.

If you have ideas for future episodes, have comments on something on the show, or have an idea for a future guest, please send an email to ⁠[email protected]⁠. 

In this episode of Opposite of Neutral, Evan and Chris delve into the concept of home, exploring its various definitions and the emotional attachments we form with places, objects, and people. They share personal stories about their own homes and the significance of personal belongings and the memories they carry. They also reflect on the idea of home as a place where you have stories and know what to expect.

To help you enjoy this episode, Chris has put together an official Episode 13: Home playlist for you to enjoy. It has many of the song references that Chris and Evan (but mostly Chris) made throughout.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6sS9Fb69SGbAG0BGIAySYH?si=QqMXEVA7S8-UeK_qJ6tUlg

If you have ideas for future episodes, have comments on something on the show, or have an idea for a future guest, please send an email to ⁠[email protected]⁠. 

In the twelfth episode of Opposite of Neutral, join hosts Chris, Evan, and special guest Tuan Phan as they dive deep into the theme of "Beginnings." Tuan is the author of the newly published book: “Remembering Water: A Memoir of Departure and Return”. 

Tuan ties the topic of "beginnings" into his experiences with fatherhood and a return to his homeland, Vietnam, as well as his experiences becoming a father. Evan's impending move to Santiago, Chile inspires an in-depth discussion on the challenges and uncertainties of plunging into new territory, whether that's parenthood, or moving to a new country. Chris shares his feelings of not feeling at home in the city where he lives. From contemplation of alternate life paths to an exploration into the concept of beginnings as a kind of return, the three of them discuss how their shared experiences of living overseas connects with broader themes of personal growth and identity.

Chris put Tuan on the spot before he had to go to a meeting to suggest next week’s topic, and he delivered! Tuan challenged Chris and Evan to dive in to the topic of “Home” for the next episode.  

If you have ideas for future episodes, have comments on something on the show, or have an idea for a future guest, please send an email to ⁠[email protected]⁠. 

Want to learn more about Tuan’s story? You can order his book, Remembering Water, at this link:

⁠https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/remembering-water-tuan-phan/1143368294⁠

In the 'Seasons' episode of Opposite of Neutral, hosts Evan and Chris engage in a year-long culinary and cultural exploration, illustrating the profound ways in which the seasons impact our lives. From the freshness of spring crops to our instinctual winter cravings for warmth and comfort, they take listeners on a flavorful journey that might leave you with an appetite for more than just their stories!

Discover why Chris likens August to the Sunday of months for teachers, and see if Evan actually holds any opinion on fall sports. And listen up for Evan and Chris making bold claims for their favorite seasons and the fruits, vegetables, and beers that pair best with each. Thanks to friends of the podcast, Tuan and David, for their suggestions for this episode.

Chris and Evan wrap up their seasonal expedition by handing over the reins next episode's topic to their most important contributors - their listeners. Be sure to send an email to [email protected] to let them know what you're eager to hear them discuss next week. 

If you're interested in sharing your own experiences and perspectives on the show, or if you have diverging opinions about the best season for asparagus and stone fruits, they're all ears. Or, if you are ready to be the opposite of neutral yourself, you might even consider being a guest on a future show.

This is your chance to shape the future content of Opposite of Neutral, so make your voice heard!