Hey, Slackers.

This isn't the type of podcast I typically enjoy recording, but the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk compelled me to address this topic. I generally avoid discussing religion or politics on the show - it's not my focus - but Generation X has lived through some profoundly challenging events due to our place in history. 

First, I'll explore recent data on Gen X's political positioning. While the numbers suggest we're evenly split across party lines, I believe we're far more centrist than the data indicates. There are also compelling statistics regarding our religious inclinations and practices.

Next, we'll examine the staggering number of political assassinations and attempted assassinations since Gen X emerged in 1965. The scope of these events is truly shocking.

Finally, I'll reflect on how political discourse - once characterized by civil "agree to disagree" conversations - has devolved into viewing others as enemies. This is no way to live or engage with one another. The tragic proof lies in the loss of a young man's life, targeted for views deemed so offensive by some that he "deserved to die." 

This episode offers a sobering look at how public discourse has been steered toward hate and violence, drifting away from the pursuit of meaningful common ground.

Let's eat, Slackers!

This episode is simple: Candy & Restaurants. That's it. That's the topic.

I rediscovered one of my all time favorite candy bars, the mighty 5th Avenue and that led us here.

I also came across a closed restaurant storefront and started thinking back to the places that 6 year old me would have thought were "fancy" dining. You know, like Sizzler or Ponderosa. Ever have a Ponderosa steak on a Sunday after church? Well I sure did, and it was glorious.

There's so much tension in the world - why not just talk about candy and food? Oh, yeah, and tonight I had another seldom talked about candy bar that was a pretty big deal in 1987!

Sticks and stones, Slackers!

This week is all about words and phrases that have fallen out of favor, driven by shifting societal norms often labeled as oversensitive, while highlighting the pushback from those who defiantly reuse or revive these terms. First we'll explore phrases deemed insensitive - particularly around disability, gender, and sexuality - examining how the drive to sanitize language has sidelined them. It also addresses the counter-reaction, where some reject this shift as word policing. Off course this comes from the Gen X perspective where there is a bit of a clash between changing expectations and resistance to linguistic control.

Up next we delve into phrases tied to cultural eras like the 1960s, 1980s, and 1990s, and how generation defining expressions faded as new slang emerged. It considers how some, frustrated by fleeting trends, bring these terms back in defiance or nostalgia, showing the tension between cultural evolution and loyalty to the past. This segment reflects on why these phrases lost ground and why certain Gen Xers hold onto them, revealing the interplay of language and identity. Seriously, how many different ways can you call something cool. Cool is just cool, right?

Finally, the episode covers outdated tech and workplace jargon, such as terms linked to obsolete technology or overused corporate buzzwords now past their prime. It examines how some resist abandoning these phrases, either from habit or to reject what they view as transient norms, underscoring the conflict between progress and tradition. Then again, sometimes a phrase just works, so why change just for the sake of change?

Let's hope this doesn't get the show (or me) cancelled!

Grab a pack of Red Apples and head on over to Jack Rabbit Slims, Slackers!

This week's episode is dedicated to the violent, stylish, and unforgettable world of Quentin Tarantino's films.

After a solid month of rewatching every single one of his movies, from the gritty heist-gone-wrong caper of Reservoir Dogs to the Hollywood glow of Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, I’m ready to lay out my personal tier list ranking of his iconic filmography.

Tarantino has a unique voice in filmmaking: his signature blend of razor-sharp dialogue, nonlinear storytelling, and iconic soundtracks that have defined a generation. I’ll break down the standout performances, unforgettable scenes, and when he has occasionally fallen short of his own ridiculously high standards.

TV time, Slackers!

This episode covers my favorite TV shows that I've watched over the last 12 months, all shaped by Generation X creators.

Ted Lasso, Succession, Severance, and Shrinking stand out with their mix of humor, heart, and sharp insight. Jason Sudeikis and Bill Lawrence bring warmth to Ted Lasso, while Jesse Armstrong’s Succession nails generational power dynamics. Ben Stiller’s Severance is just bonkers, anchored by Adam Scott's Mark Scout, and Brett Goldstein’s Shrinking dives into grief with humor and empathy.

Not to mention that Brett Goldstein is Roy F'n Kent.

Plus, many more shows with great casts, stories, and visuals!

These shows carry a Gen X edge—real, witty, and grounded. Listen to hear why these shows hit home with me and how Gen X creators make them unforgettable.

Are we the bad guys, Slackers?

On this week's episode, I dive into the phenomenon of toxic fandom, exploring how Generation X shaped the passionate, sometimes divisive, fan cultures around Star Wars, wrestling, music, and even the DC vs. Marvel rivalry.

From gatekeeping in 1980s punk scenes to online harassment in modern fandoms, we examine Gen X’s role in setting early fan standards that can exclude newcomers. Anyone remember Usenet groups? Ever call someone a poser?

There is a direct correlation between how our own sense of nostalgia and the early internet amplified tribalism. I mean, how many Gen Xers claimed George Lucas "ruined" Star Wars?

Did Gen X spark toxic fandom, or is it a broader cultural issue? Can fandoms (and society) somehow become less toxic, or has that ship already sailed?

Let me know! 
Email: [email protected]
Instagram, X, YouTube: @stuckpodx
Facebook: Stuck in the Middle - A Gen X Podcast

What'cha gonna do, Slackers!?

Another icon of Gen X's childhood has passed away. This time "The Immortal" Hulk Hogan. While Hogan's passing has garnered plenty of social media attention, I would rather focus much of the podcast on his wrestling career.

Like many, Hogan was THE superstar that made kids become wrestling fans. Hulkster cartoons, toys, and WrestleMania pay-per-views were all in high demand in the 1980's. He was the 'Real American" and the top draw of his era. After a decade "on top' as the ultimate baby face, he stunned the world again by becoming the top heel in WCW as part of the NWO.

If you were a wrestling fan, Hogan bridged the gap between our childhood hero worship and our cynical young adulthood by becoming the bad guy. Same guy, two entirely different styles. It was an amazing time for the wrestling business.

While I don't shy away from his personal failures, I think that his persona onscreen and the man he may or may not have been offscreen can and should be separated.

Not to be forgotten, Malcolm Jamal Warner, one of ours, and by all accounts a stand up guy, tragically lost his life in an accident in Costa Rica, will also be remembered this week. I have a story from High School in which "Theo" played a primary part.

The Prince of Darkness has passed away.

I had a different topic in mind for this week, but my thoughts were stuck on Ozzy. Like many of us, Ozzy has been a fixture in our lives, particulalry if you love heavy music. Or reality television.

In order to give Ozzy his proper due, I asked Justin to join me for this episode. His knowledge of music is astounding and it was through some of our teenage cover bands that I was introduced to Ozzy's solo work. I only really knew the Sabbath stuff. And Crazy Train. Big thanks to Justin for doing this on such short notice.

Rest in peace, Ozzy.

Burn out or fade away, Slackers?

This episode pulls back the curtain on 80s superstars who slipped from the spotlight, revealing that not every story is a tragedy. The 80s were a whirlwind of bold personalities, but for some, fame was fleeting—whether by choice or circumstance.

Take one superstar actress who lit up the screen in a cult classic, only to step away to focus on family, trading Hollywood for a quieter life running a small business. Another, a comedy legend, chose to prioritize personal life after a loss, only recently dipping back into the industry with small projects. Their stories show that stepping back can be a powerful choice, not a fall from grace.

Others faced different paths—some wrestled with the industry’s shifting trends, like a musician whose synthpop hits faded as tastes changed. Another star, typecast in a beloved TV role, found the spotlight dimming as opportunities dried up. These glimpses hint at the challenges and choices that shaped their journeys, from personal reinvention to navigating fame’s pitfalls. What drove these stars away, and where are they now? 

Tune as we delve into the post fame lives of some 80s icons - far beyond the reach of the limelight. Catch the episode on Spreaker, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Hey Slackers, as promised, here's my review of the new Superman movie. As a kid of the 70s & 80s, I've pretty much seen them all - so what did I think of Mr. Gunn's foray into the world of Superman and the new?

Plus, I also dropped this as a video review - my first video content in more than a year - so feel free to check it out over on YouTube, too!